As I sit to write this post a car alarm is going off outside. Apparently the owner of this car is not around or simply does not care. I feel like, however, that this incessant alarm is perhaps a metaphor for my own mind right now.
School begins tomorrow. As in, students will walk into my classroom, take their seats, and stare at me in hopes that I will lead them into their bright and glorious futures.
And the siren begins again!!
Okay, maybe I am being a bit dramatic, but this evening when I kick my feet up, a few moments later a throw my hands to my temples and this thought crosses my mind like the car alarm, "TOMORROW?!!! SHOULDN'T YOU BE DOING SOMETHING?!!?!"
I think the answer is, "No." But then I panic and wonder if it should be, "Yes." It's like when you're pulling out of town on a long trip, and you immediately get that feeling in your gut that you forgot something very important on the dresser back home. And so you begin going through the mental checklist of everything you should have packed and everything you know you packed...
It's kind of like that. But I'm not driving away and when all 110 faces see me tomorrow, I can't say, "OH!! That's what I forgot! Hold on, let me run to Wal-Mart!"
However, I'm hoping if I did forget anything that it's like forgetting your pajamas...you can always just substitute an extra t-shirt or something. I'm just hoping I didn't forget my deodorant or my jeans or my phone! (Sorry if I'm too far into this metaphor for some of you!!)
When I left school today though, I felt like everything was in order. I'll take some Tylenol PM tonight, and hopefully awake excited rather than nervous. I do feel more prepared than last year, yet the first day seems so important because you have their attention better than any other day of the school year!
Okay, all of this mumbo jumbo to say this:
School starts tomorrow. Please pray for me if you have a minute. Thanks.
8.11.2009
8.08.2009
back in the groove
Meetings, meetings and more meetings. Such is the life of a teacher in early August, I suppose :)
This past week was busy, busy, but I'm feeling a little more prepared by the day. Yesterday I was able to compile the first powerpoint and newsletter, including the first couple days worth of activities and procedure lecturing. This morning I woke up and started working on seating assignments. The 7th grade teachers are nice enough to give us some heads up regarding certain students, and certain student combinations. Although I really do like the "blank slate" and fresh start that comes with every year, it is nice to try to avoid any major blowouts on those first few days :) (FYI for teachers: The way I keep my seating charts is super easy and I can use them all year. Some of you may already do this, but I sketch out the layout of the room, run copies for each class, and then cut out sticky notes for each student. I write their name on the sticky note, move around the names and put them where I want them, and then slide the sheet in a sheet protector. I keep these on clipboards behind my desk so substitutes can easily access them. When I want to switch seats, I simply move around the sticky notes and stick them back in the sheet protector. It works great!)
I took some pictures of my new classroom when I was leaving the other day. It will look similar to my previous room because I kept all the same materials, but I have newer desks, and a much larger space. (As always, it's hard to tell in pictures):
Back wall, including reading area against the far wall
And the best part? THE WINDOW!!! Yipee! No more seasonal depression :) I even bought a little plant because it will actually survive! And I got an upgrade on my desk, and my desk chair. Good stuff. Also, if you notice to the left of the window: last year I had each of my classes sign contact paper with the intention of putting it up this year. It turned out really well and is a great reminder of why I'm there: the students.
Last year I assigned seats the first day by cards: "You are the 6 of diamonds. Please go find your seat." This way there is no chaos at the beginning of class by making everyone stand back up, and wait for me to tell them where to sit. It also prevents the chaos and obvious problems of them picking their own seats. However, this year I made the cards a little more permanent with packing tape, as I plan to use them more this year.
I decided these cards would allow me endless possibilities for grouping and assignments. For example, "Today we are going to work in groups on character analysis. Groups will be your suit./ Groups will be your number i.e. all the 2s are together, all the 3s are together etc." And so many more options: 5,6,7 of spades...etc! I was so excited when I thought of this. I will also keep a separate deck up front, and if I need to call on a student I can simply draw cards. "Would the 5 of clubs please read the next passage?" I also assigned the week's jobs this way:
I'm telling you, P90X is not for the faint of heart :)
This morning Brent woke up and headed to an estate sale, or something, where there was going to be golf gear. I just got a call that he is on his way home with a Ping 7 iron and a 5 iron. He is pretty happy; I guess he got an "awesome deal."
Well, I'm going to get off the computer now and enjoy my last Saturday of freedom!
This past week was busy, busy, but I'm feeling a little more prepared by the day. Yesterday I was able to compile the first powerpoint and newsletter, including the first couple days worth of activities and procedure lecturing. This morning I woke up and started working on seating assignments. The 7th grade teachers are nice enough to give us some heads up regarding certain students, and certain student combinations. Although I really do like the "blank slate" and fresh start that comes with every year, it is nice to try to avoid any major blowouts on those first few days :) (FYI for teachers: The way I keep my seating charts is super easy and I can use them all year. Some of you may already do this, but I sketch out the layout of the room, run copies for each class, and then cut out sticky notes for each student. I write their name on the sticky note, move around the names and put them where I want them, and then slide the sheet in a sheet protector. I keep these on clipboards behind my desk so substitutes can easily access them. When I want to switch seats, I simply move around the sticky notes and stick them back in the sheet protector. It works great!)
I took some pictures of my new classroom when I was leaving the other day. It will look similar to my previous room because I kept all the same materials, but I have newer desks, and a much larger space. (As always, it's hard to tell in pictures):
Looking at room from my desk
Looking at room from doorway
Back wall, including reading area against the far wall
And the best part? THE WINDOW!!! Yipee! No more seasonal depression :) I even bought a little plant because it will actually survive! And I got an upgrade on my desk, and my desk chair. Good stuff. Also, if you notice to the left of the window: last year I had each of my classes sign contact paper with the intention of putting it up this year. It turned out really well and is a great reminder of why I'm there: the students.
Last year I assigned seats the first day by cards: "You are the 6 of diamonds. Please go find your seat." This way there is no chaos at the beginning of class by making everyone stand back up, and wait for me to tell them where to sit. It also prevents the chaos and obvious problems of them picking their own seats. However, this year I made the cards a little more permanent with packing tape, as I plan to use them more this year.
I decided these cards would allow me endless possibilities for grouping and assignments. For example, "Today we are going to work in groups on character analysis. Groups will be your suit./ Groups will be your number i.e. all the 2s are together, all the 3s are together etc." And so many more options: 5,6,7 of spades...etc! I was so excited when I thought of this. I will also keep a separate deck up front, and if I need to call on a student I can simply draw cards. "Would the 5 of clubs please read the next passage?" I also assigned the week's jobs this way:
And in other news: Brent and I are still working hard with our P90X workout routine. We are on day 43 of 90! We are definitely seeing results and my arms and back are becoming way more toned, and my strength has increased a ton. The other day Brent did 104 pullups during one workout, and I did 124, as I modify them with the assistance of a chair! It's been fun, but also frustrating, because I seem to lack the motivation to do an hour long (or more) workout every single day. But Brent has been persistent, and I suppose I'm thankful.
Yesterday though I had a bit of a setback...not too bad though. I was doing clap pushups (yeah! Crazy!) and after the first couple I went onto my knees so I could do more reps. Well, somehow I ended up leaving my knees and coming back down on them pretty hard. My right knee really hurt and by the time I stood up, I already had a huge knot forming! I was able to finish the work out, but then called my good friend and m.d. resident Brandon, and asked him about it. He said I probably just burst one of the fluid sacs and that it shouldn't cause too many problems. I iced it last night off and on and took some ibuprofen, which seems to be helping. I don't know if you can really see it in this picture, but it is on the inside of my kneecap.
Yesterday though I had a bit of a setback...not too bad though. I was doing clap pushups (yeah! Crazy!) and after the first couple I went onto my knees so I could do more reps. Well, somehow I ended up leaving my knees and coming back down on them pretty hard. My right knee really hurt and by the time I stood up, I already had a huge knot forming! I was able to finish the work out, but then called my good friend and m.d. resident Brandon, and asked him about it. He said I probably just burst one of the fluid sacs and that it shouldn't cause too many problems. I iced it last night off and on and took some ibuprofen, which seems to be helping. I don't know if you can really see it in this picture, but it is on the inside of my kneecap.
This morning Brent woke up and headed to an estate sale, or something, where there was going to be golf gear. I just got a call that he is on his way home with a Ping 7 iron and a 5 iron. He is pretty happy; I guess he got an "awesome deal."
Well, I'm going to get off the computer now and enjoy my last Saturday of freedom!
8.05.2009
flash flooding
[First, thank you Carrie for the recipe. I've had one other email me (Thanks Jenny!), and the rest of you can still comment. It's easy to figure out how to comment if you never have. Please?]
For those of you that didn't hear about our crazy weather yesterday, we had a major rainstorm which caused severe flash flooding.
Yesterday morning I had a meeting at 8:30, so I was on the road when the first wave of this storm hit. Louisville's last big flood was in '97, and they reported to have 12 inches in about 30 hours. Yesterday morning we received 6 inches in an hour long period!!! It was slightly scary. We received another round of it mid-afternoon which wasn't as bad, but of course didn't help the problem. My mom called and said that my Uncle Creighton had called her and said, "Please call your Kentucky Daughter and check on her for me?!" I wanted to snap some pictures to document:
Out on the porch, checking it out.
I took a picture looking out, not thinking you'd actually be able to see the rain...but sure enough! It was raining very hard (and this was the "lighter" afternoon rain!)
Brent decided he probably needed to go outside and check it out. Crazy man.
For those of you that didn't hear about our crazy weather yesterday, we had a major rainstorm which caused severe flash flooding.
Yesterday morning I had a meeting at 8:30, so I was on the road when the first wave of this storm hit. Louisville's last big flood was in '97, and they reported to have 12 inches in about 30 hours. Yesterday morning we received 6 inches in an hour long period!!! It was slightly scary. We received another round of it mid-afternoon which wasn't as bad, but of course didn't help the problem. My mom called and said that my Uncle Creighton had called her and said, "Please call your Kentucky Daughter and check on her for me?!" I wanted to snap some pictures to document:
I took these pictures that the news were showing. Downtown had a lot of areas completely underwater. The entire UofL campus and Churchill Downs too!
Out on the porch, checking it out.
I took a picture looking out, not thinking you'd actually be able to see the rain...but sure enough! It was raining very hard (and this was the "lighter" afternoon rain!)
Brent decided he probably needed to go outside and check it out. Crazy man.
8.03.2009
recipe swap
[Brief thought: Why does the post office have a line no matter WHAT time of day you go?]
While thinking about this upcoming school year and preparing my mind for what lies ahead (see last post), I have also been thinking about the practical things that may make this year a little easier on me. Last year not only was I trying to stay above water in my classroom, but I was trying to figure out what it meant to be a wife as well. During this process I discovered that I really enjoying cooking and baking! Who knew?! All those years that I spent trying to bypass the kitchen while my mom worked her magic somehow caught up with me... and I only wish I would have been a pupil at her feet instead of hiding in the corner to avoid "work." (It really is true.)
I tried a lot of different recipes, and I began to find some that didn't take too many ingredients or too much time, that we loved! These were perfect for those nights I had to stay late grading papers or working with students. However, these dishes that work well and that we love...needless to say they are getting a little old! I've actually started making up stuff, and finding things we like that way. Just the other night I made a Chicken Teryaki and Broccoli stir fry that was awesome! This week we've been eating on leftovers from a huge pan I made of a pasta lasagna bake (I don't know what else to call it since I made it up!) It is delicious! I made sure to write these "recipes" down for the future, which got me thinking about recipes from all of you!
So here is the deal:
I really want to increase my recipes in my little black recipe box. I have a lot of cookbooks, but many of the recipes take a very long time, or call for ingredients that I don't always have. What I would love from you is a recipe or two that works for you and your family that is fairly quick (Not necessarily including baking time), and has pretty basic ingredients that I would typically have or would be readily accessible: i.e. at Kroger/Wal Mart, not at specialty stores.
Please leave a comment with the recipe/s, and maybe even check back and get some ideas from others who have left a post. If you don't feel like leaving a comment or don't know how, feel free to email me! Help me prepare some great meals this school year!
In all fairness, I'll share something with you that isn't necessarily a meal, but it is a favorite in our house. It is easy, and if we have company that isn't even here for supper it makes a nice treat. (And yes, I stole this from mom):
Healthy Fruit Smoothie
amount of ingredients will depend on how much you're making, but for 2 people about as follows:
- 1 cup frozen strawberries (if you use fresh, add ice cubes)
- 1 large banana (or more if you like banana :)
- 1 carton low fat yogurt (I usually use strawberry banana, but you can experiment for a different flavor. Black Raspberry is good too)
- 1-2 cups low fat milk
Dump all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.
Enjoy!!
________________________
And since Brent and I enjoyed this so much, here is the "recipe" for the lasagna bake that I made:
- 8-10 oz. small pasta shells, cooked and drained
- pizza/spaghetti sauce (I mixed the two so it was a little thicker than just spaghetti sauce)
- 2 cups mozzarella shredded cheese
- 1 1/2 cups low fat cottage cheese
- 1 lb. cooked ground turkey/ beef (I used ground turkey)
Spread 1/2 of cooked pasta in bottom of greased casserole dish. Next, spread meat and sauce mixture over pasta. Next, spread cottage cheese. Spread one cup mozzarella cheese. Spread remaining pasta on top, and top with remaining mozzarella cheese (add more if you wish).
Bake at 400 for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese begins to golden. This will serve a lot of people, as Brent and I have eaten it for several days! :)
Your turn!!
While thinking about this upcoming school year and preparing my mind for what lies ahead (see last post), I have also been thinking about the practical things that may make this year a little easier on me. Last year not only was I trying to stay above water in my classroom, but I was trying to figure out what it meant to be a wife as well. During this process I discovered that I really enjoying cooking and baking! Who knew?! All those years that I spent trying to bypass the kitchen while my mom worked her magic somehow caught up with me... and I only wish I would have been a pupil at her feet instead of hiding in the corner to avoid "work." (It really is true.)
I tried a lot of different recipes, and I began to find some that didn't take too many ingredients or too much time, that we loved! These were perfect for those nights I had to stay late grading papers or working with students. However, these dishes that work well and that we love...needless to say they are getting a little old! I've actually started making up stuff, and finding things we like that way. Just the other night I made a Chicken Teryaki and Broccoli stir fry that was awesome! This week we've been eating on leftovers from a huge pan I made of a pasta lasagna bake (I don't know what else to call it since I made it up!) It is delicious! I made sure to write these "recipes" down for the future, which got me thinking about recipes from all of you!
So here is the deal:
I really want to increase my recipes in my little black recipe box. I have a lot of cookbooks, but many of the recipes take a very long time, or call for ingredients that I don't always have. What I would love from you is a recipe or two that works for you and your family that is fairly quick (Not necessarily including baking time), and has pretty basic ingredients that I would typically have or would be readily accessible: i.e. at Kroger/Wal Mart, not at specialty stores.
Please leave a comment with the recipe/s, and maybe even check back and get some ideas from others who have left a post. If you don't feel like leaving a comment or don't know how, feel free to email me! Help me prepare some great meals this school year!
In all fairness, I'll share something with you that isn't necessarily a meal, but it is a favorite in our house. It is easy, and if we have company that isn't even here for supper it makes a nice treat. (And yes, I stole this from mom):
Healthy Fruit Smoothie
amount of ingredients will depend on how much you're making, but for 2 people about as follows:
- 1 cup frozen strawberries (if you use fresh, add ice cubes)
- 1 large banana (or more if you like banana :)
- 1 carton low fat yogurt (I usually use strawberry banana, but you can experiment for a different flavor. Black Raspberry is good too)
- 1-2 cups low fat milk
Dump all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.
Enjoy!!
________________________And since Brent and I enjoyed this so much, here is the "recipe" for the lasagna bake that I made:
- 8-10 oz. small pasta shells, cooked and drained
- pizza/spaghetti sauce (I mixed the two so it was a little thicker than just spaghetti sauce)
- 2 cups mozzarella shredded cheese
- 1 1/2 cups low fat cottage cheese
- 1 lb. cooked ground turkey/ beef (I used ground turkey)
Spread 1/2 of cooked pasta in bottom of greased casserole dish. Next, spread meat and sauce mixture over pasta. Next, spread cottage cheese. Spread one cup mozzarella cheese. Spread remaining pasta on top, and top with remaining mozzarella cheese (add more if you wish).
Bake at 400 for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese begins to golden. This will serve a lot of people, as Brent and I have eaten it for several days! :)
Your turn!!
8.01.2009
winding down and winding up
Yes I know I have been less than wonderful at updating everyone on several points. I have spent the last week up at school working on my new classroom. I say new, because I am moving rooms. Last year I was in one of the smallest rooms in the building with no window! So I requested a change and got it. My room is bigger, and brighter with a (small, but present) window. I was busy all week moving, sweating, rearranging, decorating, organizing etc. It is incredible how much easier this has been for me this year. Mainly I think it's been easier because I actually have what I need, but I think it has been good for me too because it has forced me to really sort through things and figure out ways to better organize. When I came in last year, green as all get out, I just wanted to have what I needed, who cared where it was! As I unpacked I couldn't believe the mess I created! It was great to really sort through things and know how they should be arranged in my room for best use. I think this is a sign that, although I know I still have a lot to learn, the second year proves to be slightly easier/better. Arranging a classroom is difficult and interesting work for those of you that have never done it though; as one of my friends put it, "This is my Everest!" I think I've reached the peak, but now I need to focus on the details of those oh-so-important first days of school.
One jewel I got this week though was when I checked my stuffed mailbox in the teacher workroom. I saw the manila envelope and thought it was more paperwork that I needed to fill out...but it was something FAR better. It was the "Crystal Apple" nominations letters that 8th graders wrote last year. The Crystal Apple is awarded to any teacher in the middle school based on the nominations that are received. It is not a majority vote, it is based on the content. Whether teachers win or lose, it is one of their favorite moments to receive the nominations that were written about them. I tucked them in my bag and later snuggled up on the couch at home and read through my letters. It brought tears to my eyes to remember the students, to read their kind words, and to think about how I can be even better at what they say I'm good at next year. It was helpful in refocusing me for the upcoming school year (which I haven't mentioned is Aug. 12, a week from Wednesday. Prayers please!)
I read a few of my favorite parts to Brent. Here are a few I cherish:
" When you enter her room everything just seems so safe. She reaches out to her students and builds trust between them; a trust in which you have no doubt that it will be broken. I have never had a teacher with as big a heart as she has... She has a poster in her room that has a promise to all her students that she wrote. She starts off by saying that she believes in us, and she knows that we can handle life's situations. She goes on and says that we are cared for, and we are listened to. I have never had a teacher make that promise to me before. It meant something to me, and I can honestly say she has kept her promise."
"She is honestly my role model, and I aspire to be as good of a person when I grow up."
"She has opened my eyes to the details in life that can make all the difference in the world. She has motivated me, inspired me, and encouraged me to write to my maximum and show who I really am and what I believe through my writing...She has made me want to write a story about my move to Kentucky, which is already 24 pages long. "
"My hopes and dreams of childhood were rekindled, all because of Mrs. Irwin. We didn't just learn in her class, we explored...She enforces the rules, but is nice about it...Her passion for writing is contagious, and I'm glad I caught the bug!"
"Up until this year I had never met a teacher that I thought was truly amazing. For me, she was that teacher. She was the one I wanted to impress. Hers was the class I enjoyed. She was the one that made learning fun for me."
"When I came to 8th grade I thought I was going to have one of those older teacher that are very strict and don't like to have fun. Fortunate for me, it turned out that I had Mrs. Irwin. "
"I would mistake her for a person that has been teaching for many years. When I think of teachers I think of perfectionists. I think of no mistakes or problems. I also though that teachers were only at the school for money. This all changed when Mrs. Irwin became my Language Arts teacher. She started off taking new and different approaches to the days' lesson plan. She has fun writer's notebooks which really got me excited about writing. She even asked questions and shared her writing, which proved to me that teachers are only human too, and are no better than the students they teach... The only reason I worried about setting my alarm for 7 am was so I could make it to school and so I was able to sit in Mrs. Irwin's class. "
"In Mrs. Irwin's room, everyone is comfortable enough to be themselves. Therefore, we're like one big, somewhat crazy and messed up family. This is because she is so kind and welcomes anyone. I've grown as a person because of her. I've come to accept people for who they are, and I know it's okay to make mistakes."
"She is someone her students can relate to. She isn't exactly one of those teachers who tells stories more than actually teaching; but when she does, they mean something. Not just to her-- but to us. She's taught me so much more than just being a good writer. Everyday we had a routine. As soon as we walked through the door we knew to sit down and soon we would begin Writer's Notebook. While we were etching our thoughts away, Mrs. Irwin would select her latest arrangement of relaxing songs. It was an easy habit to adapt to-- knowing that everyday we would have some time away from our busy lives to stop and think... You felt comfortable in her classroom. IT was a safe environment. You didn't have to worry about being laughed at for a stupid question; that just wasn't how our class was. As students, we respected her and each other, and as a teacher, she respected us. I realize that this is how school should be, and I am forever grateful to Mrs. Irwin for allowing me to experience that."
Okay, so I got a little carried away, but I told my mom I would share those with her awhile ago and I thought some of the rest of you may want to read them as well. Although I feel somewhat undeserving of many of their compliments, I am so thankful they felt loved, cherished and safe in my classroom. I think if that's in place, if students trust their teacher, that they will learn something.
_______________________________
Unfortunately with school winding up, this means summer is winding down. I am soaking in my last days of sun at the pool, cleaning (I cleaned and organized all our closets today, and several cupboards), and spending time with Brent. We had a "date night" last night: we went to one of my favorite places-- BORDERS! We perused books and then sat and drank some coffee together (well, he had something other than coffee...but I indulged in my raspberry white mocha! Yum!)
One other thing I got to do last week was a little shopping. We are trying to be very frugal right now, so I didn't get much, but I did find a GREAT deal on these awesome sandals (I've wanted some in this style all summer):
And I was able to get 6 new books for my classroom at a garage sale this morning, and found Candyland for 50 cents! I also finished up a project for my soon to be nephew (Brent's sister, Beth). I can't put up pictures yet because I haven't gotten it in the mail, but as soon as Beth gets it I will show you all... so get excited :)
Now, if you don't mind, it is time for Brent and I to do our P90X workout for the day. I believe we are almost to day 40. Of 90. I think it may never come.
One jewel I got this week though was when I checked my stuffed mailbox in the teacher workroom. I saw the manila envelope and thought it was more paperwork that I needed to fill out...but it was something FAR better. It was the "Crystal Apple" nominations letters that 8th graders wrote last year. The Crystal Apple is awarded to any teacher in the middle school based on the nominations that are received. It is not a majority vote, it is based on the content. Whether teachers win or lose, it is one of their favorite moments to receive the nominations that were written about them. I tucked them in my bag and later snuggled up on the couch at home and read through my letters. It brought tears to my eyes to remember the students, to read their kind words, and to think about how I can be even better at what they say I'm good at next year. It was helpful in refocusing me for the upcoming school year (which I haven't mentioned is Aug. 12, a week from Wednesday. Prayers please!)
I read a few of my favorite parts to Brent. Here are a few I cherish:
" When you enter her room everything just seems so safe. She reaches out to her students and builds trust between them; a trust in which you have no doubt that it will be broken. I have never had a teacher with as big a heart as she has... She has a poster in her room that has a promise to all her students that she wrote. She starts off by saying that she believes in us, and she knows that we can handle life's situations. She goes on and says that we are cared for, and we are listened to. I have never had a teacher make that promise to me before. It meant something to me, and I can honestly say she has kept her promise."
"She is honestly my role model, and I aspire to be as good of a person when I grow up."
"She has opened my eyes to the details in life that can make all the difference in the world. She has motivated me, inspired me, and encouraged me to write to my maximum and show who I really am and what I believe through my writing...She has made me want to write a story about my move to Kentucky, which is already 24 pages long. "
"My hopes and dreams of childhood were rekindled, all because of Mrs. Irwin. We didn't just learn in her class, we explored...She enforces the rules, but is nice about it...Her passion for writing is contagious, and I'm glad I caught the bug!"
"Up until this year I had never met a teacher that I thought was truly amazing. For me, she was that teacher. She was the one I wanted to impress. Hers was the class I enjoyed. She was the one that made learning fun for me."
"When I came to 8th grade I thought I was going to have one of those older teacher that are very strict and don't like to have fun. Fortunate for me, it turned out that I had Mrs. Irwin. "
"I would mistake her for a person that has been teaching for many years. When I think of teachers I think of perfectionists. I think of no mistakes or problems. I also though that teachers were only at the school for money. This all changed when Mrs. Irwin became my Language Arts teacher. She started off taking new and different approaches to the days' lesson plan. She has fun writer's notebooks which really got me excited about writing. She even asked questions and shared her writing, which proved to me that teachers are only human too, and are no better than the students they teach... The only reason I worried about setting my alarm for 7 am was so I could make it to school and so I was able to sit in Mrs. Irwin's class. "
"In Mrs. Irwin's room, everyone is comfortable enough to be themselves. Therefore, we're like one big, somewhat crazy and messed up family. This is because she is so kind and welcomes anyone. I've grown as a person because of her. I've come to accept people for who they are, and I know it's okay to make mistakes."
"She is someone her students can relate to. She isn't exactly one of those teachers who tells stories more than actually teaching; but when she does, they mean something. Not just to her-- but to us. She's taught me so much more than just being a good writer. Everyday we had a routine. As soon as we walked through the door we knew to sit down and soon we would begin Writer's Notebook. While we were etching our thoughts away, Mrs. Irwin would select her latest arrangement of relaxing songs. It was an easy habit to adapt to-- knowing that everyday we would have some time away from our busy lives to stop and think... You felt comfortable in her classroom. IT was a safe environment. You didn't have to worry about being laughed at for a stupid question; that just wasn't how our class was. As students, we respected her and each other, and as a teacher, she respected us. I realize that this is how school should be, and I am forever grateful to Mrs. Irwin for allowing me to experience that."
Okay, so I got a little carried away, but I told my mom I would share those with her awhile ago and I thought some of the rest of you may want to read them as well. Although I feel somewhat undeserving of many of their compliments, I am so thankful they felt loved, cherished and safe in my classroom. I think if that's in place, if students trust their teacher, that they will learn something.
_______________________________
Unfortunately with school winding up, this means summer is winding down. I am soaking in my last days of sun at the pool, cleaning (I cleaned and organized all our closets today, and several cupboards), and spending time with Brent. We had a "date night" last night: we went to one of my favorite places-- BORDERS! We perused books and then sat and drank some coffee together (well, he had something other than coffee...but I indulged in my raspberry white mocha! Yum!)
One other thing I got to do last week was a little shopping. We are trying to be very frugal right now, so I didn't get much, but I did find a GREAT deal on these awesome sandals (I've wanted some in this style all summer):
And I was able to get 6 new books for my classroom at a garage sale this morning, and found Candyland for 50 cents! I also finished up a project for my soon to be nephew (Brent's sister, Beth). I can't put up pictures yet because I haven't gotten it in the mail, but as soon as Beth gets it I will show you all... so get excited :)Now, if you don't mind, it is time for Brent and I to do our P90X workout for the day. I believe we are almost to day 40. Of 90. I think it may never come.
7.25.2009
some more pictures
[Quick update for those of you who were concerned: I found my phone when I came back to the apartment. See, it was all okay! If you don't know what I'm talking about, see yesterday's post, venting on cell phones.]
Scot and Trace (shortly after a nap, I believe)
Kylee (on the beach where Baywatch was filmed...)
Always posing--- Myka
Trace
So, I wondered if my wedding dress still fit. And then mom found me like this when she came home for lunch :)
I love being home. It is beautiful.
Buddy's Animal Park
They were chasing me...what's new?
Grandma Pat always has ice-pops
Favorite pictures to follow
Dad breaking Brent's arm...actually, just practicing on him. A rite of passage into our family
Brewing tea on the back porch
Kali's baby shower!
Brewing tea on the back porch
Kali's baby shower!
Trip to Atlanta to visit Micah :)
The farm mom grew up on. Another beautiful spot.
And of course, we had to line up rocks and flick them into the creek
Visiting with Grandma
Great Grandbaby #30
7.24.2009
If you'd like to leave a message, press 3...
I finally went to the pool today. I got there, spread out my towels, put my flip flops in the shade under my chair, filled up my spray bottle with cold water, got out my current book, and then reached back in y bag for my cell phone.
IT WASN'T THERE!
So, did I just brush it off, shrug my shoulders, and begin the hot ritual of damaging my skin to a rich, beautiful tan?
NO. I frantically took everything out of my bag, then got my keys, walked briskly to my car, and frantically searched its contents. To no avail. The silvery purple phone never appeared. I debated heading back to my apartment to sear. Then I debated calling Brent to see if he knew where it was (well, duh, that wouldn't work!). So I went back to my chair, and laid down.
Maybe I panicked because I had told Brent to call me and I knew he couldn't now. Maybe I panicked "in case of an emergency." Maybe I panicked because I had planned on making some calls whilst tanning.
But I know non of these are the reason. I panicked because my society has conditioned me to do so. I panicked because this world tells me I need to have my cell phone in my hands.
What has happened to me?!
When I was in high school, very few of my peers had cell phones. My family purchased a "bag phone"-- remember, the big bulky thing that sat in the console of your car? This truly was "in case of emergencies." Later my family-- yep, for ALL four of us-- purchased ONE true, blue cellular telephone. It was the Nokia. Ya know-- the original. The phone you could repeatedly throw against a cement wall and it wouldn't break? A phone you could swim with and it would still make calls. A phone that may or, GASP! may not, have had texting capabilities.
This phone was given to the family member who was going to be on the road. "On the road" of course defaulted to the person who would be driving outside of Dekalb County limits. You know, to the land of stoplights. I knew I was not allowed to actually talk on the phone while driving, or make calls on it for that matter, but it gave me and my parents peace of mind while my inexperienced hands took the wheel.
Sidnote: I do remember breaking the "no-call-while-driving" rule once, however. On windy E Highway after dark. Like every rural-raised girl at one point in time experiences, I had a run in with some wildlife...yes, coming around a big curve a huge raccoon sprinted from the ditch and became a buzzard's treat after I did as I was raised to do and "didn't swerve." Surprisingly I was a little shaken up (not thinking about the critter, but rather about the wreck I could have had), and called mom to console me. I think she said something like, "Yeah, those feel like big suckers when they go under your car. Just keep your eyes peeled. You're fine. Now GET OFF THE PHONE!" End sidenote.
As a high school graduation present I received my first personal cell phone. Awesome.
And then the perilous spiral downward.
To "the panic" of today.
Although I do make phone calls while driving (sorry, Mom and Dad), I don't text, and try to yell at all those I see driving by (unfortunately I don't think they hear me).
But why this DEPENDENCE? Why this FIXATION? This OBSESSION?
I know I'll be find here at the pool today, listening to the "1-2-3-Jump!"s of the children. I know 98% of the time I'll be fine on the highway, and heck, I know how to change a tire!
I hate that 10 year olds have cell phones. That texting has taken over real communication. I hate that cell phone chargers have taken over "Brite-Lites" in children's rooms (remember those?). I hate hearing some one's conversation in the grocery store that should be happening in the privacy of their own home. I hate that we can be standing in the breeze under a canopy of trees, and not hear the whippoorwill chirping because we are making a phone call, or changing our ring tone. I hate that the "turn off all electronic devices" announcement on airplanes causes panic, boredom, ignoring, even anger. I hate accessing information off the web via your phone, instead of figuring it out amongst friends. I hate that some would rather hold their phone instead of their spouse or child's hand. I hate that churches have to make the announcement to turn off cells and that some simply cannot, or won't, heed this advice.
I hate that we can sit on our back porch, with our family, and the sunset and the cottonwoods, and completely miss the moment because we are "obligated" to take this call, or are watching a clip on our video phones.
Am I guilty? At some points. Am I ashamed? Absolutely. Am I worried? For my children.
I know I frustrate some people by not answering every phone call. I just don't want to be so reliant that I miss beauty somewhere important. I don't want to be so "connected" that I fail to speak to those around me.
I would like to say I have no flaws in cell-phone etiquette, but by my panic earlier I'm afraid it would be too obvious that I'm lying. But that panic awoke something in me I needed to revisit.
It awoke a simpler time. A slower time. A better time? I know there is no going back...but if the next time you call and I don't answer, I may be sitting on my porch reading a book, or enjoying supper with my husband, or maybe, I've just turned off my phone to go for a walk.
Your thoughts? (And please, don't text them to me :)
IT WASN'T THERE!
So, did I just brush it off, shrug my shoulders, and begin the hot ritual of damaging my skin to a rich, beautiful tan?
NO. I frantically took everything out of my bag, then got my keys, walked briskly to my car, and frantically searched its contents. To no avail. The silvery purple phone never appeared. I debated heading back to my apartment to sear. Then I debated calling Brent to see if he knew where it was (well, duh, that wouldn't work!). So I went back to my chair, and laid down.
Maybe I panicked because I had told Brent to call me and I knew he couldn't now. Maybe I panicked "in case of an emergency." Maybe I panicked because I had planned on making some calls whilst tanning.
But I know non of these are the reason. I panicked because my society has conditioned me to do so. I panicked because this world tells me I need to have my cell phone in my hands.
What has happened to me?!
When I was in high school, very few of my peers had cell phones. My family purchased a "bag phone"-- remember, the big bulky thing that sat in the console of your car? This truly was "in case of emergencies." Later my family-- yep, for ALL four of us-- purchased ONE true, blue cellular telephone. It was the Nokia. Ya know-- the original. The phone you could repeatedly throw against a cement wall and it wouldn't break? A phone you could swim with and it would still make calls. A phone that may or, GASP! may not, have had texting capabilities.
This phone was given to the family member who was going to be on the road. "On the road" of course defaulted to the person who would be driving outside of Dekalb County limits. You know, to the land of stoplights. I knew I was not allowed to actually talk on the phone while driving, or make calls on it for that matter, but it gave me and my parents peace of mind while my inexperienced hands took the wheel.
Sidnote: I do remember breaking the "no-call-while-driving" rule once, however. On windy E Highway after dark. Like every rural-raised girl at one point in time experiences, I had a run in with some wildlife...yes, coming around a big curve a huge raccoon sprinted from the ditch and became a buzzard's treat after I did as I was raised to do and "didn't swerve." Surprisingly I was a little shaken up (not thinking about the critter, but rather about the wreck I could have had), and called mom to console me. I think she said something like, "Yeah, those feel like big suckers when they go under your car. Just keep your eyes peeled. You're fine. Now GET OFF THE PHONE!" End sidenote.
As a high school graduation present I received my first personal cell phone. Awesome.
And then the perilous spiral downward.
To "the panic" of today.
Although I do make phone calls while driving (sorry, Mom and Dad), I don't text, and try to yell at all those I see driving by (unfortunately I don't think they hear me).
But why this DEPENDENCE? Why this FIXATION? This OBSESSION?
I know I'll be find here at the pool today, listening to the "1-2-3-Jump!"s of the children. I know 98% of the time I'll be fine on the highway, and heck, I know how to change a tire!
I hate that 10 year olds have cell phones. That texting has taken over real communication. I hate that cell phone chargers have taken over "Brite-Lites" in children's rooms (remember those?). I hate hearing some one's conversation in the grocery store that should be happening in the privacy of their own home. I hate that we can be standing in the breeze under a canopy of trees, and not hear the whippoorwill chirping because we are making a phone call, or changing our ring tone. I hate that the "turn off all electronic devices" announcement on airplanes causes panic, boredom, ignoring, even anger. I hate accessing information off the web via your phone, instead of figuring it out amongst friends. I hate that some would rather hold their phone instead of their spouse or child's hand. I hate that churches have to make the announcement to turn off cells and that some simply cannot, or won't, heed this advice.
I hate that we can sit on our back porch, with our family, and the sunset and the cottonwoods, and completely miss the moment because we are "obligated" to take this call, or are watching a clip on our video phones.
Am I guilty? At some points. Am I ashamed? Absolutely. Am I worried? For my children.
I know I frustrate some people by not answering every phone call. I just don't want to be so reliant that I miss beauty somewhere important. I don't want to be so "connected" that I fail to speak to those around me.
I would like to say I have no flaws in cell-phone etiquette, but by my panic earlier I'm afraid it would be too obvious that I'm lying. But that panic awoke something in me I needed to revisit.
It awoke a simpler time. A slower time. A better time? I know there is no going back...but if the next time you call and I don't answer, I may be sitting on my porch reading a book, or enjoying supper with my husband, or maybe, I've just turned off my phone to go for a walk.
Your thoughts? (And please, don't text them to me :)
7.22.2009
Summer-ing
As I sit here in my apartment, listening to the rain outside, I know that vacation time is over. As emails from school folk start rolling in again, and meetings are beginning once again, I know that vacation is over. But oh how wonderful it was.
Yes, I was exhausted by the end of it all and sick and tired of being in a car, but I would do it again.
Being on vacation reminded me of why I write. I write because others may never know that July cornfields in Iowa look like velvet, or the stories the wrinkles on my Grandma's hands have to tell. I write because of the sound of kids' laughing against the backdrop of ocean waves. I write because I think people have forgotten the miracle of flying, and the miracle of sitting on your porch drinking sweet tea with your family. I write because I have to somehow try to describe feeling your niece kick and squirm inside your sister. I write because of a dad who understands perseverance, sweat, blood, and accomplishment. I write because of family, the ocean, the midwest, friendships, popsicles, and the Fourth of July.
I've been working on sorting through my pictures, and I'll leave you with just a few and post more later (posting pictures can be a little time consuming).
Yes, I was exhausted by the end of it all and sick and tired of being in a car, but I would do it again.
Being on vacation reminded me of why I write. I write because others may never know that July cornfields in Iowa look like velvet, or the stories the wrinkles on my Grandma's hands have to tell. I write because of the sound of kids' laughing against the backdrop of ocean waves. I write because I think people have forgotten the miracle of flying, and the miracle of sitting on your porch drinking sweet tea with your family. I write because I have to somehow try to describe feeling your niece kick and squirm inside your sister. I write because of a dad who understands perseverance, sweat, blood, and accomplishment. I write because of family, the ocean, the midwest, friendships, popsicles, and the Fourth of July.
I've been working on sorting through my pictures, and I'll leave you with just a few and post more later (posting pictures can be a little time consuming).
7.20.2009
she's baaaack...
Finally.
And I'm not exaggerating: I just pulled into my parking spot about an hour and a half ago. I sorted through mounds of mail, ate some chocolate, hauled up luggage, and am now sitting here typing this to say:
Tomorrow I will write.
And I'm not exaggerating: I just pulled into my parking spot about an hour and a half ago. I sorted through mounds of mail, ate some chocolate, hauled up luggage, and am now sitting here typing this to say:
Tomorrow I will write.
7.11.2009
still here
Brent and I are still enjoying vacation. However, I've heard many (well-intentioned) complaints: "I keep checking your blog...and NOTHING!" "Pretty quiet in blog land." Etc.
So, to appease my rabid fans, here is a brief update while still away from Louisville. :)
Trips made:
- Drove to St. Louis.
- Drove home to Missouri
- Flew to California (8 day trip!)
- Flew back home (MO) for a day.
- Drove to Jefferson City
- Drove back home.
Trips still to be made:
- Driving to Iowa tomorrow.
- Driving back to Louisville next week.
- Driving Kali back to Nashville.
- Driving down to Atlanta to see Micah
- Driving back to Louisville.
Events and Activities:
- Time with family
- Time with Brent's brother(in California).
- Disneyland. The happiest place on earth. (It was my first time and a dream come true).
- Dad's graduation from Highway Patrol. (Way to go, Buddy! So proud.)
- Kali's baby shower.
- Time at the lake and with family in Iowa.
Downfalls of being on vacation so long:
- Living out of bags.
- Not packing my razor and having to use disposables.
- 3 different time zones.
- Messed up sleep schedule.
- Gas money.
- Fast food (more frequently then when we are home, anyway)
- Hair supplies leaking in suitcase.
- Doing two loads of laundry.
- Sleeping in 2500 different beds.
- Being tired enough that you feel the need to exaggerate the number of different beds you have slept in.
Benefits of being on vacation:
- So many obvious benefits I need not list
- Family time.
- No work schedule or demands.
- No grading.
- Getting tan.
- Being fed many, many, many great meals.
- Not feeling obligated to keep up with email
- Being somewhere where everyone really knows you and looks out for you
- A very low electric bill for the month of June and July :)
- Hugs from nieces and nephews
- Realizing we've been in Louisville long enough that we actually know someone well enough to ask them to check our mail while we're gone.
I have taken about a thousand pictures (unfortunately not an exaggeration), and will sift through them and post some of the best when we return.
I hope that this will suffice for many of you for just awhile longer. I've realized now it is harder to stay connected while on vacation than while working! That seems strange. Brent and I are so thankful we have been blessed to have this time to vacation!
If you haven't had the time yet, be sure to congratulate my dad for his accomplishment in becoming a State Patrolman! Dad, Brent and I were so glad we were able to be there for your graduation and are amazed at what you have done.
So, to appease my rabid fans, here is a brief update while still away from Louisville. :)
Trips made:
- Drove to St. Louis.
- Drove home to Missouri
- Flew to California (8 day trip!)
- Flew back home (MO) for a day.
- Drove to Jefferson City
- Drove back home.
Trips still to be made:
- Driving to Iowa tomorrow.
- Driving back to Louisville next week.
- Driving Kali back to Nashville.
- Driving down to Atlanta to see Micah
- Driving back to Louisville.
Events and Activities:
- Time with family
- Time with Brent's brother(in California).
- Disneyland. The happiest place on earth. (It was my first time and a dream come true).
- Dad's graduation from Highway Patrol. (Way to go, Buddy! So proud.)
- Kali's baby shower.
- Time at the lake and with family in Iowa.
Downfalls of being on vacation so long:
- Living out of bags.
- Not packing my razor and having to use disposables.
- 3 different time zones.
- Messed up sleep schedule.
- Gas money.
- Fast food (more frequently then when we are home, anyway)
- Hair supplies leaking in suitcase.
- Doing two loads of laundry.
- Sleeping in 2500 different beds.
- Being tired enough that you feel the need to exaggerate the number of different beds you have slept in.
Benefits of being on vacation:
- So many obvious benefits I need not list
- Family time.
- No work schedule or demands.
- No grading.
- Getting tan.
- Being fed many, many, many great meals.
- Not feeling obligated to keep up with email
- Being somewhere where everyone really knows you and looks out for you
- A very low electric bill for the month of June and July :)
- Hugs from nieces and nephews
- Realizing we've been in Louisville long enough that we actually know someone well enough to ask them to check our mail while we're gone.
I have taken about a thousand pictures (unfortunately not an exaggeration), and will sift through them and post some of the best when we return.
I hope that this will suffice for many of you for just awhile longer. I've realized now it is harder to stay connected while on vacation than while working! That seems strange. Brent and I are so thankful we have been blessed to have this time to vacation!
If you haven't had the time yet, be sure to congratulate my dad for his accomplishment in becoming a State Patrolman! Dad, Brent and I were so glad we were able to be there for your graduation and are amazed at what you have done.
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