Friday, September 19, 2014
4th week of school!
So today marks the end of another week. I cannot believe how much I love my kiddos and how well behaved they are. Who would've guessed two years in a row. Of course I still make plenty of mistakes, sometimes I believe I am too lenient, while other times I am too nit picky. Somehow the kids still seem to smile and enjoy coming to school, though I'm sure that had little to do with me. Today I had a great day with one of my lower students. He had struggled on labeling sentences the day before and so I reviewed it in class and then went over it with him during recess. He got 100% correct. I showed him the difference and talked about how much his brain had grown. Later on in the day, he finished a history paper without help and while turning it in remarked how he used his brain and was proud of himself. 10 years is such a fun age. Another kid keeps calling me Mrs. Nussbaum, and today at dismissal he corrected himself and had this silly little grin on his face, that you can't help but love. I don't know how I ended up with the coolest job and get to work with the best people. May God continue to love the kids through me and may I never forget, that it is Him and not me who is making the true difference.
Thursday, September 4, 2014
First Week of School!
Okay, well I definitely am not very good at writing a blog. I always want to remember my memories, but writing them down is apparently too strenuous.
I have started teaching my new kiddos for my second year. It is so weird and so familiar at the same time. Teaching is definitely my "element." When I am teaching, I feel alive, I feel like I have a purpose, I love what I am doing and I am so blessed by the gifts that God gave me. It is very strange that in most any situation, I am quiet and shy and sometimes feel awkward, but in the classroom, I am strangely outgoing and really relaxed. This is what I was born to do and I feel so bad for those people who never get to experience what it is to do something you love. I would teach even if I wasn't paid for it. There is something so magical and special about it.
My new kids are very quiet and most definitely rule followers. You can tell they came from very strict classrooms, because they are used to routine and order. I have 14 as opposed to my 15 last year. It is very different and when I see my 6th graders, it is a strange feeling. I feel a little detached as if they don't belong to me anymore, but at the same time that they will belong to me forever. There will always be a piece of my heart that goes with that first class as they go through the grades. I will always be cheering for them. Many of them are in cross country and it is fun to yell out the window at them. They smile and wave and apparently after they passed, two said She is awesome. Well, they are quite awesome themselves,
My new fifth graders are much lower than my other ones who were well extraordinarily high. I will definitely need to go through the curriculum a little slower and probably focus on writing techniques, they are pretty funny as well and I already feel a little chunk of my heart begin to fill with them, or I guess I am growing a new heart. It feels like I've known them longer than 3 days. I want to do my best by them, so I will need to ask for advice and make sure I remember that one curriculum for everyone just won't fly.
I have a couple of younger siblings in my math and home room class, so I feel like I have a piece of my past students with me. As I go though these beginning lessons, I feel like I'm probably going a little too fast, so hopefully I will slow down soon. The kids have really latched on to the Nussbaum economy system which is awesome. They also like the Wordly Wise marble jar, probably a little too much.
Well we will see how I feel at the end of the year. Tootaloo!
-Kara
I have started teaching my new kiddos for my second year. It is so weird and so familiar at the same time. Teaching is definitely my "element." When I am teaching, I feel alive, I feel like I have a purpose, I love what I am doing and I am so blessed by the gifts that God gave me. It is very strange that in most any situation, I am quiet and shy and sometimes feel awkward, but in the classroom, I am strangely outgoing and really relaxed. This is what I was born to do and I feel so bad for those people who never get to experience what it is to do something you love. I would teach even if I wasn't paid for it. There is something so magical and special about it.
My new kids are very quiet and most definitely rule followers. You can tell they came from very strict classrooms, because they are used to routine and order. I have 14 as opposed to my 15 last year. It is very different and when I see my 6th graders, it is a strange feeling. I feel a little detached as if they don't belong to me anymore, but at the same time that they will belong to me forever. There will always be a piece of my heart that goes with that first class as they go through the grades. I will always be cheering for them. Many of them are in cross country and it is fun to yell out the window at them. They smile and wave and apparently after they passed, two said She is awesome. Well, they are quite awesome themselves,
My new fifth graders are much lower than my other ones who were well extraordinarily high. I will definitely need to go through the curriculum a little slower and probably focus on writing techniques, they are pretty funny as well and I already feel a little chunk of my heart begin to fill with them, or I guess I am growing a new heart. It feels like I've known them longer than 3 days. I want to do my best by them, so I will need to ask for advice and make sure I remember that one curriculum for everyone just won't fly.
I have a couple of younger siblings in my math and home room class, so I feel like I have a piece of my past students with me. As I go though these beginning lessons, I feel like I'm probably going a little too fast, so hopefully I will slow down soon. The kids have really latched on to the Nussbaum economy system which is awesome. They also like the Wordly Wise marble jar, probably a little too much.
Well we will see how I feel at the end of the year. Tootaloo!
-Kara
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
August 5th!
It is strange that I could be so good at keeping a journal on vacation, but watch all of my efforts fizzle out when I arrive home. I guess my life isn't quite as exciting or adventurous in the sleeping town of Hillsdale as it was along the ocean in California.
Well, for starters we recently celebrated a big birthday milestone for my mom and so on August 1st, my grandparents, aunt and uncle, sister and niece, as well as some close friends for my mom went out to a tea house in Adrian. It was a neat place and I even tried the tea, though it still tasted like hot juice. It was nice to hang out with little Annie and watch the wheels turn in her little mind.
The house was pretty full with my grandparents, aunt, uncle and their grandson, so I definitely appreciated the quiet when all things had settled down. It may seem selfish, but is nice when you wake up to have a bathroom available. With 10 people, finding an empty bathroom becomes close to winning the lottery.
I'm looking forward to getting started on my classroom, but they still have to paint or retouch some of the walls, so I'm still in limbo land. I did manage to complete the bulletin boards, but the rest will have to wait. Teacher letters went out yesterday, so the time is ticking down.
we did say goodbye to our neighbors yesterday as they headed off to their new home in Kansas, which for those who are geographically challenged, is not at all close to Hillsdale. We weren't extremely close to the Krannawitters, but it was still sad to see those familiar faces go away.
I have still occasionally been playing soccer at the pick up games at the Academy, though now it becomes literally a last minute decision. At 6:20. I'm still debating whether to go when it begins at 6:30. I finally usually figure that I might as well go and make a fool out of myself there instead of sitting at home and doing nothing productive. I'm not very good, but it is nice to meet new people and play with people who are exceptional, at least to my limited skills. I believe I had two assists last night. One for our team, and then one for the other team, so I must be even right!?!?!
Well, I suppose that is all for today. TTFN
Well, for starters we recently celebrated a big birthday milestone for my mom and so on August 1st, my grandparents, aunt and uncle, sister and niece, as well as some close friends for my mom went out to a tea house in Adrian. It was a neat place and I even tried the tea, though it still tasted like hot juice. It was nice to hang out with little Annie and watch the wheels turn in her little mind.
The house was pretty full with my grandparents, aunt, uncle and their grandson, so I definitely appreciated the quiet when all things had settled down. It may seem selfish, but is nice when you wake up to have a bathroom available. With 10 people, finding an empty bathroom becomes close to winning the lottery.
I'm looking forward to getting started on my classroom, but they still have to paint or retouch some of the walls, so I'm still in limbo land. I did manage to complete the bulletin boards, but the rest will have to wait. Teacher letters went out yesterday, so the time is ticking down.
we did say goodbye to our neighbors yesterday as they headed off to their new home in Kansas, which for those who are geographically challenged, is not at all close to Hillsdale. We weren't extremely close to the Krannawitters, but it was still sad to see those familiar faces go away.
I have still occasionally been playing soccer at the pick up games at the Academy, though now it becomes literally a last minute decision. At 6:20. I'm still debating whether to go when it begins at 6:30. I finally usually figure that I might as well go and make a fool out of myself there instead of sitting at home and doing nothing productive. I'm not very good, but it is nice to meet new people and play with people who are exceptional, at least to my limited skills. I believe I had two assists last night. One for our team, and then one for the other team, so I must be even right!?!?!
Well, I suppose that is all for today. TTFN
Monday, July 7, 2014
July 4th Weekend
Happy Birthday America!! It is crazy to believe that the United States of America is little more than 200 years old! being an American, we often believe that the world starts and ends with the United States and yet there are places throughout Europe and Asia that existed and thrived centuries before the United States was even an idea.
Anyways out of the philosophical realm and into the real world. We started off the weekend by having our Great American parade and fireworks on the third. No one can understand Hillsdale logic since the fourth was a more appropriate day especially being a Friday. The parade was stereotypical with its politicians, tractors, beauty pageant winners, marching bands and fire trucks. My roommate did have some friends over, so I got to see the parade with them from the front porch. Of course, Mom made sure that I cut the lawn that day so the paraders could see the beautiful lawnmower lines from the street if they happened to look.
After the parade was the firework display at the fair. I like to go to the fair and do a couple of laps and see if I recognize anyone who I haven't seen in a while. I did end up seeing a couple of students and actually ended up watching the parade with my director's family which I am very grateful for since I didn't have to watch it awkwardly by myself. Sitting with them was an old friend, well more of an acquaintance from high school. I actually spent the whole night thinking I was talking to a different "Tyler" than I actually was. Good thing I didnt' ask specific questions.
On Friday, I went for a 20 mile bike ride!! Whoot! Whoot!! What a way to celebrate the fourth. I ended up biking out to Camp Selah and of course taking pictures while there. After that I had lunch (good ol' American hot dogs) at a neighbor's house and got to see the France/Germany game. It wasn't the most interesting, but it was only the second game I got to see.
On Saturday, I went with my niece and brother-in-law to his grandparents' place up in Jackson. I was a little hesitant about going because I didn't want to be the odd man out. My sister was working and so I would be the only one representing her "side" of the family. My brother-in-law's entire family including cousins and relatives from far away would be there. I'm actually really glad that I went. It ended up being really fun and I had a lot of great conversations, none of them awkward with fellow school teachers and even got to swim around in the lake with my brother-in-law's younger sister. I don't know what that makes her to me, but oh well.
Later that night, I made a supper for my roommate and myself. Well, I took a freezer meal out of the freezer, but I did dress it up with adding salad, garlic bread and lemonade. So I "olive garden' ed it. Then I got to skype my family who was in Scotland. They were watching the Costa Rica/ Netherlands game and so I got to "watch" the game with them. They held the iPod up to the television set. It did freeze sometimes, but the insanity of the idea made all of us laugh. It was fun to see the penalty kicks from overtime and it was good to hear and see my family again, though I haven't yet admitted to them that I miss them and can't wait for them to be home
On Sunday, I invited myself along to the church of one of my fellow teachers. I didn't really want to go to my church by myself and I'm glad I went with my friend. The service was good and was on social justice. I also went out to lunch and even ended up going to the church picnic that evening with them. I saw friends I haven't seen for five or six years at the church and saw a great baptism service out at the lake.
Well that was my busy weekend. In five days I head out to California!!
Adios world!
Anyways out of the philosophical realm and into the real world. We started off the weekend by having our Great American parade and fireworks on the third. No one can understand Hillsdale logic since the fourth was a more appropriate day especially being a Friday. The parade was stereotypical with its politicians, tractors, beauty pageant winners, marching bands and fire trucks. My roommate did have some friends over, so I got to see the parade with them from the front porch. Of course, Mom made sure that I cut the lawn that day so the paraders could see the beautiful lawnmower lines from the street if they happened to look.
After the parade was the firework display at the fair. I like to go to the fair and do a couple of laps and see if I recognize anyone who I haven't seen in a while. I did end up seeing a couple of students and actually ended up watching the parade with my director's family which I am very grateful for since I didn't have to watch it awkwardly by myself. Sitting with them was an old friend, well more of an acquaintance from high school. I actually spent the whole night thinking I was talking to a different "Tyler" than I actually was. Good thing I didnt' ask specific questions.
On Friday, I went for a 20 mile bike ride!! Whoot! Whoot!! What a way to celebrate the fourth. I ended up biking out to Camp Selah and of course taking pictures while there. After that I had lunch (good ol' American hot dogs) at a neighbor's house and got to see the France/Germany game. It wasn't the most interesting, but it was only the second game I got to see.
On Saturday, I went with my niece and brother-in-law to his grandparents' place up in Jackson. I was a little hesitant about going because I didn't want to be the odd man out. My sister was working and so I would be the only one representing her "side" of the family. My brother-in-law's entire family including cousins and relatives from far away would be there. I'm actually really glad that I went. It ended up being really fun and I had a lot of great conversations, none of them awkward with fellow school teachers and even got to swim around in the lake with my brother-in-law's younger sister. I don't know what that makes her to me, but oh well.
Later that night, I made a supper for my roommate and myself. Well, I took a freezer meal out of the freezer, but I did dress it up with adding salad, garlic bread and lemonade. So I "olive garden' ed it. Then I got to skype my family who was in Scotland. They were watching the Costa Rica/ Netherlands game and so I got to "watch" the game with them. They held the iPod up to the television set. It did freeze sometimes, but the insanity of the idea made all of us laugh. It was fun to see the penalty kicks from overtime and it was good to hear and see my family again, though I haven't yet admitted to them that I miss them and can't wait for them to be home
On Sunday, I invited myself along to the church of one of my fellow teachers. I didn't really want to go to my church by myself and I'm glad I went with my friend. The service was good and was on social justice. I also went out to lunch and even ended up going to the church picnic that evening with them. I saw friends I haven't seen for five or six years at the church and saw a great baptism service out at the lake.
Well that was my busy weekend. In five days I head out to California!!
Adios world!
Monday, June 30, 2014
June 30 2014
So I am slowly getting used to the less hectic summer schedule. Soccer camp started today and it was so fun to interact with the students again. I did regress just like the kids and forgot to introduce myself by my last name. After meeting adults, I introduced myself by simply "Kara" and didn't realize my error until much later. I felt more comfortable with the 4th-6th graders than the 1st to 3rd graders, but that is partly because I teach 5th grade. It was great to see some of my former students. We will see how the rest of the week goes.
The doctor's appointment came next. Apparently I have a split sound to my heart, which is supposedly not a bad thing and nothing to worry about though the doctor did want to have an ultra sound done. The scene in Santa Clause of Tim Allen and his heart beating Jingle Bells kept popping into my head. At least my heart represents a drum beat then a whole drawn out melody
I also got a chance to play soccer and I am so thankful for that. I forgot how much I missed it, though I am still uncoordinated. I made plenty of bad plays and probably helped out the other team just as much as myself. Oh well, I guess it is all in fun. There are two coaches who we play with and I hope when I am their age, I can still play as well.
It was great to see little Annie again over the weekend and watch her grow. She is becoming smarter and smarter and developing more and more of a little personality.
Well, I best be going
Ciao,
Kara
The doctor's appointment came next. Apparently I have a split sound to my heart, which is supposedly not a bad thing and nothing to worry about though the doctor did want to have an ultra sound done. The scene in Santa Clause of Tim Allen and his heart beating Jingle Bells kept popping into my head. At least my heart represents a drum beat then a whole drawn out melody
I also got a chance to play soccer and I am so thankful for that. I forgot how much I missed it, though I am still uncoordinated. I made plenty of bad plays and probably helped out the other team just as much as myself. Oh well, I guess it is all in fun. There are two coaches who we play with and I hope when I am their age, I can still play as well.
It was great to see little Annie again over the weekend and watch her grow. She is becoming smarter and smarter and developing more and more of a little personality.
Well, I best be going
Ciao,
Kara
Friday, June 27, 2014
June 26 2014
So here I am again, about two weeks into summer. I definitely miss school and having something meaningful and productive to do with my time, though surprisingly I haven't cried about saying good-bye to my students and at this point I doubt I will. I love them and describing them I cannot help but smile, but I know they need to move on and I am looking forward to teaching next year's miscreants, or however you spell that word. My mom and dad are in Europe, so it is pretty quiet on the home front with just Gina and myself roaming around. The summer has started out fairly slow and it has been hard to get adjusted to the added time in my day. It is so ironic that during the school year I was at war with time never having enough and now I have too much. I wish I could package some of the time up and save it for later when I will actually need it.
I have found things to do with my time, though. Last week I got to celebrate Sarah's wedding and see Courtney again which is always a blast. I had never met Sarah's fiance before, but he seems really nice and compatible with Sarah. It was a simple wedding, but really wonderful. The venue was at a church and I was amazed at its vastness. The auditorium was set up like a theatre and the reception took place in the lobby.
This week I have had a chance to hang out with some of my friends. I went kayaking/swimming at a nearby lake with Rebecca and of course the occasional trips to Coneys and Swirls for ice cream. I also had the opportunity to play soccer with a local school here in town. The last game I played was with 10 year olds, so this game was much more competitive and of course I woke up today much more sore. I half rolled, half fell out of bed, but it is a good sore, so I'm sure I will laugh throughout the day as I waddle to different places. Stairs are the hardest part. Right now I'm wishing for one of those stair chairs that was used in the Disney movie Up. I'm sure running will be out of the question for today, but I am planning on going bike riding with the other 5th grade teacher, Katie, so we will see how that goes.
This week, I also got around to donating blood and you know you've been someplace too often when the staff starts recognizing you. I go about once every 3 months and this past time I went, the nurses recognized my face and actually talked to me like I was part of their crew. I don't know whether that is a good thing or a bad thing, but since I get to choose, we'll pretend that it is a good thing.
I've also tried some new recipes. Yesterday I made this spaghetti bread thingamajig. I made it at 3 and we didn't eat it until 9, after soccer. It tasted almost like the spaghetti pizza from Cicis though I wouldn't give it that much credit. Adding spaghetti sauce to it and garlic powder did help and of course now we have plenty of leftovers.
Well, I guess that is all I have to share today. See you later, as in probably a month or so...
Toodles,
Kara
I have found things to do with my time, though. Last week I got to celebrate Sarah's wedding and see Courtney again which is always a blast. I had never met Sarah's fiance before, but he seems really nice and compatible with Sarah. It was a simple wedding, but really wonderful. The venue was at a church and I was amazed at its vastness. The auditorium was set up like a theatre and the reception took place in the lobby.
This week I have had a chance to hang out with some of my friends. I went kayaking/swimming at a nearby lake with Rebecca and of course the occasional trips to Coneys and Swirls for ice cream. I also had the opportunity to play soccer with a local school here in town. The last game I played was with 10 year olds, so this game was much more competitive and of course I woke up today much more sore. I half rolled, half fell out of bed, but it is a good sore, so I'm sure I will laugh throughout the day as I waddle to different places. Stairs are the hardest part. Right now I'm wishing for one of those stair chairs that was used in the Disney movie Up. I'm sure running will be out of the question for today, but I am planning on going bike riding with the other 5th grade teacher, Katie, so we will see how that goes.
This week, I also got around to donating blood and you know you've been someplace too often when the staff starts recognizing you. I go about once every 3 months and this past time I went, the nurses recognized my face and actually talked to me like I was part of their crew. I don't know whether that is a good thing or a bad thing, but since I get to choose, we'll pretend that it is a good thing.
I've also tried some new recipes. Yesterday I made this spaghetti bread thingamajig. I made it at 3 and we didn't eat it until 9, after soccer. It tasted almost like the spaghetti pizza from Cicis though I wouldn't give it that much credit. Adding spaghetti sauce to it and garlic powder did help and of course now we have plenty of leftovers.
Well, I guess that is all I have to share today. See you later, as in probably a month or so...
Toodles,
Kara
Thursday, June 12, 2014
June 12 2014
Hello,
So today was the last day of school and it has not hit me yet. The day rushed by pretty quickly. I started off the day by having the students take their post math test and then having them grade it from their pretest. We watched the end of 5th grade slideshow while they worked on their writing projects. (timeline including 5 events from the past year) After that they started packing up and they collected their chameleons. I gave them their final awards and they headed home without a single tear being shed. It was surreal and I know I haven't yet digested the fact that I will not teach these 15 amazing people again. I believe in my brain, I still expect to see them bright and early tomorrow and if not that Monday. There is a part of me that wishes I would cry, wishes I would feel something. I do not know what I'm more afraid of...that it will hit me in a couple of weeks and I will have a major breakdown or that it will never hit me at all. The former would be heartbreak, but the latter is almost more scary. I truly love all of the students and the fact that I am not crying that I will never teach them again is strange. Perhaps, the waterworks will come and I believe in that moment I may feel relieved.
I guess that is all I have to say. There is nothing else, except I am slowly taking my room apart bit by bit. I'm not looking forward to summer as it will be a lot of time with little to do, but hopefully some of my friends return and I can at least hang out some days.
Take care
So today was the last day of school and it has not hit me yet. The day rushed by pretty quickly. I started off the day by having the students take their post math test and then having them grade it from their pretest. We watched the end of 5th grade slideshow while they worked on their writing projects. (timeline including 5 events from the past year) After that they started packing up and they collected their chameleons. I gave them their final awards and they headed home without a single tear being shed. It was surreal and I know I haven't yet digested the fact that I will not teach these 15 amazing people again. I believe in my brain, I still expect to see them bright and early tomorrow and if not that Monday. There is a part of me that wishes I would cry, wishes I would feel something. I do not know what I'm more afraid of...that it will hit me in a couple of weeks and I will have a major breakdown or that it will never hit me at all. The former would be heartbreak, but the latter is almost more scary. I truly love all of the students and the fact that I am not crying that I will never teach them again is strange. Perhaps, the waterworks will come and I believe in that moment I may feel relieved.
I guess that is all I have to say. There is nothing else, except I am slowly taking my room apart bit by bit. I'm not looking forward to summer as it will be a lot of time with little to do, but hopefully some of my friends return and I can at least hang out some days.
Take care
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
June 10 2014
So I only have 1.5 days left of my first year as a teacher. 1.5 days... and I don't know how I feel about it. I'm excited for the summer and to have a year under my belt, but looking at the kids, it breaks my heart to know that in a little bit they will no longer be a part of my life and slowly I will fade from their memories and them from mine. They have been the fulcrum point of my life for the past year and it will be strange from seeing all of them everyday to not seeing them at all.
Today was Camp Selah and I was a little nervous about it being chaotic, but it actually was pretty fun. We got to ride go-carts, and watching some of them drive was pretty scary. We also got to play volleyball, archery, go to the lake and some other fun things. Sometimes during the day, I did stop and look out at the kids and their goofiness and realize how much I truly love each and every one of them. They are far from perfect, but they all have amazing qualities and are really trying to be good people. Watching them does make me feel relieved about the next generation.
I'm curious if I will cry on the last day or not...I guess I will find out...
Today was Camp Selah and I was a little nervous about it being chaotic, but it actually was pretty fun. We got to ride go-carts, and watching some of them drive was pretty scary. We also got to play volleyball, archery, go to the lake and some other fun things. Sometimes during the day, I did stop and look out at the kids and their goofiness and realize how much I truly love each and every one of them. They are far from perfect, but they all have amazing qualities and are really trying to be good people. Watching them does make me feel relieved about the next generation.
I'm curious if I will cry on the last day or not...I guess I will find out...
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
June 4
So let's be honest and point out the elephant in the room: I am terrible with a capital T at keeping a journal. I'm pretty sure it was almost 6 months ago that I last wrote and it will probably be 6 months until I write again. I apologize to my future self for my lack of consistency and all I can say is that in time I hope you (I) forgive me for living my life instead of writing about it.
First off, all of the cumulative snow days are over, though the 16 days we got gives us an extra week of school. Surprisingly, I am not disappointed about going longer and am excited I get to "keep" my students for an extra 4 days, well 3.5 to be exact.
I am going to miss them so much and that is partly why I am writing instead of living at this present moment. I know that soon those 15 amazing, wonderful students will just be a part of my past and a fleeting memory and I really don't want to lose or forget this love I have for my first year class. I love them, I truly do each and every one of them and I have learned so much this year. They have been so understanding, enthusiastic and kind. I went into teaching hoping to inspire future generations and instead they have inspired me. I wanted to teach, but instead I became a student. Their forgiving open natures taught me more and more about God's love and that even when we mess up, he is right there to catch us and help us.
I remember college a year ago. That's crazy that it was only a year ago. Anyways, there was a part of me that didn't want to leave, that truly thought I was leaving the best years of my life. After this year, actually after only a month with my kiddos, I realized that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world. I would not give up a single one of my students to have another month or year in college. I was back on campus in October and walking around, I realized that I missed being there, but I didn't belong there anymore. I belonged with my class.
I am probably one of those weirdos who love school and always will, but the weekends are sometimes my least favorite times. I get bored and I sometimes feel restless, I long to go back to school. Of course, I have frustrating days like everyone else. Days when you just want to scream or cry or run or all three at the same time, but those days are a small penance to pay for the days of laughter and stories and love.
I am so blessed to have an amazing class. I know it is God's grace alone that allowed me to stay sane this year and gave me students to humble me and teach me what it is to be a good person. They will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
First off, all of the cumulative snow days are over, though the 16 days we got gives us an extra week of school. Surprisingly, I am not disappointed about going longer and am excited I get to "keep" my students for an extra 4 days, well 3.5 to be exact.
I am going to miss them so much and that is partly why I am writing instead of living at this present moment. I know that soon those 15 amazing, wonderful students will just be a part of my past and a fleeting memory and I really don't want to lose or forget this love I have for my first year class. I love them, I truly do each and every one of them and I have learned so much this year. They have been so understanding, enthusiastic and kind. I went into teaching hoping to inspire future generations and instead they have inspired me. I wanted to teach, but instead I became a student. Their forgiving open natures taught me more and more about God's love and that even when we mess up, he is right there to catch us and help us.
I remember college a year ago. That's crazy that it was only a year ago. Anyways, there was a part of me that didn't want to leave, that truly thought I was leaving the best years of my life. After this year, actually after only a month with my kiddos, I realized that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world. I would not give up a single one of my students to have another month or year in college. I was back on campus in October and walking around, I realized that I missed being there, but I didn't belong there anymore. I belonged with my class.
I am probably one of those weirdos who love school and always will, but the weekends are sometimes my least favorite times. I get bored and I sometimes feel restless, I long to go back to school. Of course, I have frustrating days like everyone else. Days when you just want to scream or cry or run or all three at the same time, but those days are a small penance to pay for the days of laughter and stories and love.
I am so blessed to have an amazing class. I know it is God's grace alone that allowed me to stay sane this year and gave me students to humble me and teach me what it is to be a good person. They will forever hold a very special place in my heart.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Hello again,
It has been quite a long time, there goes my New Years resolution. Spring break has already arrived, though the weather refuses to cooperate. The snow still litters the ground and green still is hard to be seen. We had our parent teacher conferences on Thursday, so after a busy week, it is so strange to have free time. Parent teacher conferences went surprisingly well, though I did feel like I was playing teacher a lot of the time. The parents are very cooperative and supportive, so this is probably the best class I will ever have. Despite my joy for the break, I know I will definitely miss the kids and teaching, it provides a purpose for my life, that watching television, exercising and reading books cannot fill that void. I enjoy grading papers, creating lessons and writing tests, so I guess there really was no other career more suited for me. I am assistant coaching soccer and our first game is Tuesday so we will see how that goes. I do enjoy getting to play again even if it is just demonstrating different soccer techniques, though I'm nowhere near good, at least not all the students have realized my inadequacies...yet.
Well that is about all I have for today
Take care
It has been quite a long time, there goes my New Years resolution. Spring break has already arrived, though the weather refuses to cooperate. The snow still litters the ground and green still is hard to be seen. We had our parent teacher conferences on Thursday, so after a busy week, it is so strange to have free time. Parent teacher conferences went surprisingly well, though I did feel like I was playing teacher a lot of the time. The parents are very cooperative and supportive, so this is probably the best class I will ever have. Despite my joy for the break, I know I will definitely miss the kids and teaching, it provides a purpose for my life, that watching television, exercising and reading books cannot fill that void. I enjoy grading papers, creating lessons and writing tests, so I guess there really was no other career more suited for me. I am assistant coaching soccer and our first game is Tuesday so we will see how that goes. I do enjoy getting to play again even if it is just demonstrating different soccer techniques, though I'm nowhere near good, at least not all the students have realized my inadequacies...yet.
Well that is about all I have for today
Take care
Friday, February 7, 2014
Snow Day 12, The Cabin Fever is getting more fierce!
So, it is Day 12 for snow days!I have never known the weather to be this bad. We have had 3 snow days every week for the past 3 weeks, no full weeks since January and in the last 21 days, I have only been in school 6. I had a dream about teaching part-time a while ago and it didn't make sense then, but now I understand. I almost feel like I should pick up a part-time job for all my free time
Well, I probably should be journaling more, but I am still so bad at that. I feel like I am in the middle of a science experiment to test whether a person can have too much of a good thing and the answer is a resounding "YES!!" I'm ready to start school again, I take back every time I ever said I was tired. Being tired is so much better than being bored. At least I felt accomplished for the day. I can't believe that I am saying this, well actually writing this, but I hope we make up the days. We've almost lost 3 weeks of instruction time and out of 5 weeks, that is pretty bad.
So, what have I been doing during my snow days....well... I have been working a little on the school work, well working on the next day and then revising and then revising again for each snow day. I am planning on dressing up like Peter the Great and doing a speech for the students, so we will see if that actually happens. I did make biscottis with Anna, the art teacher, which was pretty fun and at least spiced up my day (quite literally as well)
I really like the college student who is currently staying with us. She is amazing and very personable. Definitely one of those people who will go far.
I went to my mom's school today to read to the students and I was shocked by how bad their attitudes were. I am used to my little angels and these kids were actually scary. You have to walk on eggs around them because they have a tendency to throw tables. It is their agenda, not the teacher's that matters. I was actually shaking when I approached one student who was just laying out on the ground, not doing anything and the teacher told me to ask him if he wanted to come read with me. If he said no, I wasn't supposed to push the issue. Apparently him laying on the floor doing nothing,was him having good day. On my way back I heard shouting from every single classroom that I passed of one student disregarding rules and the teacher having to resort to shouting to get their attention. Honestly, those 45 minutes in the school made me question my own job choice and I absolutely love my job. It is sad that some parents don't understand how to parent their children.
Anyways, I guess that is all I have for now. Stay tuned for next time and for future adventures
Well, I probably should be journaling more, but I am still so bad at that. I feel like I am in the middle of a science experiment to test whether a person can have too much of a good thing and the answer is a resounding "YES!!" I'm ready to start school again, I take back every time I ever said I was tired. Being tired is so much better than being bored. At least I felt accomplished for the day. I can't believe that I am saying this, well actually writing this, but I hope we make up the days. We've almost lost 3 weeks of instruction time and out of 5 weeks, that is pretty bad.
So, what have I been doing during my snow days....well... I have been working a little on the school work, well working on the next day and then revising and then revising again for each snow day. I am planning on dressing up like Peter the Great and doing a speech for the students, so we will see if that actually happens. I did make biscottis with Anna, the art teacher, which was pretty fun and at least spiced up my day (quite literally as well)
I really like the college student who is currently staying with us. She is amazing and very personable. Definitely one of those people who will go far.
I went to my mom's school today to read to the students and I was shocked by how bad their attitudes were. I am used to my little angels and these kids were actually scary. You have to walk on eggs around them because they have a tendency to throw tables. It is their agenda, not the teacher's that matters. I was actually shaking when I approached one student who was just laying out on the ground, not doing anything and the teacher told me to ask him if he wanted to come read with me. If he said no, I wasn't supposed to push the issue. Apparently him laying on the floor doing nothing,was him having good day. On my way back I heard shouting from every single classroom that I passed of one student disregarding rules and the teacher having to resort to shouting to get their attention. Honestly, those 45 minutes in the school made me question my own job choice and I absolutely love my job. It is sad that some parents don't understand how to parent their children.
Anyways, I guess that is all I have for now. Stay tuned for next time and for future adventures
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Cabin fever hits the troops!
Hello again,
The weather again is quite atrocious and cold. I'm beginning to forget what going to school is like. Tomorrow marks the third day off this week and we had Friday off which makes it four snow days in row. This actually is the ninth day off and we have only had nine and a half days on since school started in January. There is more bad weather on the horizon, no pun intended,well maybe actually. I've accumulated a cold and cabin fever from being inside. I actually wish we had school, it's weird that the lessons I planned two weeks ago I can still use since we've had almost zero days at school. I definitely miss my kiddos. The days go so much slower and I don't feel as productive or that I did as much. For example, today I worked out, met Katie at the coffee shop which was slightly awkward since we couldn't talk about our kiddos so we had almost nothing to talk about. I am busy preparing for the michigan educator test and of course catching up on my Psych. Maybe I'll look ahead to making valentines. Hoping school starts back soon....cabin fever is contagious....
The weather again is quite atrocious and cold. I'm beginning to forget what going to school is like. Tomorrow marks the third day off this week and we had Friday off which makes it four snow days in row. This actually is the ninth day off and we have only had nine and a half days on since school started in January. There is more bad weather on the horizon, no pun intended,well maybe actually. I've accumulated a cold and cabin fever from being inside. I actually wish we had school, it's weird that the lessons I planned two weeks ago I can still use since we've had almost zero days at school. I definitely miss my kiddos. The days go so much slower and I don't feel as productive or that I did as much. For example, today I worked out, met Katie at the coffee shop which was slightly awkward since we couldn't talk about our kiddos so we had almost nothing to talk about. I am busy preparing for the michigan educator test and of course catching up on my Psych. Maybe I'll look ahead to making valentines. Hoping school starts back soon....cabin fever is contagious....
Friday, January 10, 2014
Happy Friday world!
We'll believe it or not, the snow did let up and school did begin again. We even had outdoor recess which is a first I believe in months. Today felt like a Tuesday, so it didn't really have the flow that Fridays usually have. The kids were a little more antsy and tired then usually. I had a couple of tears, from the students. I wish there had been a class on dealing with the issues of students, sometimes I just feel really inadequate. The quarter ends next week, so busy planning for that. Hopefully not too many more snow days, as we got to pack in the quarterlies.
We'll believe it or not, the snow did let up and school did begin again. We even had outdoor recess which is a first I believe in months. Today felt like a Tuesday, so it didn't really have the flow that Fridays usually have. The kids were a little more antsy and tired then usually. I had a couple of tears, from the students. I wish there had been a class on dealing with the issues of students, sometimes I just feel really inadequate. The quarter ends next week, so busy planning for that. Hopefully not too many more snow days, as we got to pack in the quarterlies.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
January 7 2014
Hello,
So one of my new year's resolutions was to keep a journal of the coming year. As it is day 7, I am already behind, but as I am snowed in and the third consecutive snow day is tomorrow, I no longer have an excuse. Today is an exceptionally cold day and I have heard that the entire country is being hit. Even Indianapolis issued a state of emergency and no one can be out except for emergency vehicles. The wind chill was 40 below. The heat in the house couldn't keep up, but it did mean we got to keep little Annie an extra day. She was supposed to go home yesterday back to Grand Rapids, but due to the weather mom and dad took her back this afternoon. She is so cute and just starting to walk, slow and like an old granny, but definitely walking independently. I am getting a little cabin fever from being inside for so long, but definitely thankful for being warm. Definitely shows the character of people, my dad has been outside working for 2 hours, seemingly shoveling the entire neighborhood.
Tomorrow is another snow day, but I really would like to start school so. I am getting tired of sitting on the couch reading and watching tv. I am ready to start doing something with a purpose and I haven't exercised in about 2 weeks.
So one of my new year's resolutions was to keep a journal of the coming year. As it is day 7, I am already behind, but as I am snowed in and the third consecutive snow day is tomorrow, I no longer have an excuse. Today is an exceptionally cold day and I have heard that the entire country is being hit. Even Indianapolis issued a state of emergency and no one can be out except for emergency vehicles. The wind chill was 40 below. The heat in the house couldn't keep up, but it did mean we got to keep little Annie an extra day. She was supposed to go home yesterday back to Grand Rapids, but due to the weather mom and dad took her back this afternoon. She is so cute and just starting to walk, slow and like an old granny, but definitely walking independently. I am getting a little cabin fever from being inside for so long, but definitely thankful for being warm. Definitely shows the character of people, my dad has been outside working for 2 hours, seemingly shoveling the entire neighborhood.
Tomorrow is another snow day, but I really would like to start school so. I am getting tired of sitting on the couch reading and watching tv. I am ready to start doing something with a purpose and I haven't exercised in about 2 weeks.
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