Today is the day before the day we get out for winter break. Classroom winter parties were yesterday. It is nutso land here at Elementary. It has also been a day for great kid quotes!
"It is raining peas and cats"
Watching the Nutcracker "What if the ballerina sneezes?"
"When I grow up I want to have a lot of Star Wars stuff because Star Wars is my favorite part of my life."
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Learning new things
I went to the best session on Tuesday about using iPads in my classroom. I don't have an iPad at home or at school but insure do need one now.
I have quite a bit of technology in my classroom because I am me and really live for it.
I have a problem though. I want to know everything about everything and I need to still teach my curriculum.
Finding balance between what I still have to do and dropping everything for the cool new stuff is what I really need to learn. My students deserve a cohesive curriculum not one full of new random thoughts and toys.
Time to figure out how to blend all the parts.
I have quite a bit of technology in my classroom because I am me and really live for it.
I have a problem though. I want to know everything about everything and I need to still teach my curriculum.
Finding balance between what I still have to do and dropping everything for the cool new stuff is what I really need to learn. My students deserve a cohesive curriculum not one full of new random thoughts and toys.
Time to figure out how to blend all the parts.
Monday, December 10, 2012
block
I want a masters degree.
I really want my masters degree.
I really want this degree from a specific school.
I need to write a 500 word or less philosophy of education.
Who knew that I of all people would not be able to write 500 words on what I am most passionate about?
Ok, I know what I want to write about, I want to sound smart so that they accept me.
I really want my masters degree.
I really want this degree from a specific school.
I need to write a 500 word or less philosophy of education.
Who knew that I of all people would not be able to write 500 words on what I am most passionate about?
Ok, I know what I want to write about, I want to sound smart so that they accept me.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
This week in elementary school
This week was a busy one at elementary.
On Monday, we had someone decide to take the elevator during bus calls and the elevator got stuck so the fire department had to be called.
On Tuesday one of my darlings who chat with me about their behavior fell asleep for nearly the whole afternoon. Not a good idea for a six year old to stay up all night playing video games. We also had a student answer the question "is nine more or less than eleven?" with "no." Teacher's response: "that was not one of the options."
On Wednesday, I went shopping at target for a school food drive. We had a lot of fun and the kids enjoyed being at target with their teachers. While there, a colleague shared a photo of a third grade story problem. The assignment was to write a story problem and then illustrate it. It read, "I drew two boobs. I also drew two nipels. 2x2=4 there was a diagram drawn next to it.
Thursday included someone losing their coat and not realizing the one on the floor next to them was it. I asked if it could be in their back pack and they said "No, just my lunchbox and an extra pair of underpants." It was also the last day of my after school art critique/writing group. We had a party. It involved the principal singing Sinatra and Oreos.
Friday was relatively uneventful but with the typical kid things. First grade us also doing math with coins and they keep leaving out the second p and e after i in the word pennies. There is a door decorating contest going on as well and the art teacher and I teamed up for a big project.
I really do love how much I laugh at my job.
On Monday, we had someone decide to take the elevator during bus calls and the elevator got stuck so the fire department had to be called.
On Tuesday one of my darlings who chat with me about their behavior fell asleep for nearly the whole afternoon. Not a good idea for a six year old to stay up all night playing video games. We also had a student answer the question "is nine more or less than eleven?" with "no." Teacher's response: "that was not one of the options."
On Wednesday, I went shopping at target for a school food drive. We had a lot of fun and the kids enjoyed being at target with their teachers. While there, a colleague shared a photo of a third grade story problem. The assignment was to write a story problem and then illustrate it. It read, "I drew two boobs. I also drew two nipels. 2x2=4 there was a diagram drawn next to it.
Thursday included someone losing their coat and not realizing the one on the floor next to them was it. I asked if it could be in their back pack and they said "No, just my lunchbox and an extra pair of underpants." It was also the last day of my after school art critique/writing group. We had a party. It involved the principal singing Sinatra and Oreos.
Friday was relatively uneventful but with the typical kid things. First grade us also doing math with coins and they keep leaving out the second p and e after i in the word pennies. There is a door decorating contest going on as well and the art teacher and I teamed up for a big project.
I really do love how much I laugh at my job.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Oh the comments
So, I never get comments on this blog. This is due in part to my lack of followers/readers. This is fine with me. I write infrequently and so do my 2 followers. Such a weird one "followers" it makes me sounds like an evil genius or something.
I need to never read the comments from a local paper ever again, I will but, I shouldn't. There was news about the tax levy for my school district and once again people just come out with the claws. I always want to respond but know I should not because it is maddening/I don't want to have work repercussions. I like being employed. Of course, most people don't know how tax levies work and all of the ways of school funding. I don't and I work in it.It is quite complicated.
So, as always, it is stated that teachers are money grubbers who are lazy, do nothing and really don't care about the kids. First in the money grubbing, if you really want to know my salary, go look it up. It is a law that all public teacher salaries are published and accessible to the public. If I wanted to make lots of money and put in the same amount of effort I would not choose teaching. Second, why are teachers not allowed to earn a living wage? We have advanced degrees (that we paid for ourselves) often required to do our jobs.
Lazy? How many hours was I at work today? I might have had only six hours of classroom contact time with the kids. Add the hour long meetings before work, up to seven. Then add another hour+ of after school club, we are at 8 the standard work day. Now, I stay and grade papers, create new lessons, create SMART board (my board was not paid for by the district) pages so my students who learn in more interactive ways have an outlet. I arrive to work close to 7:45 and leave near 5:30 or later every day. I could go on.
If I wanted to have a job that allowed less work or effort, I would have picked a profession that has less emotional toll. I know nothing about many professions and their emotional toll. I do know which of my students come to me hungry or ill cared for. Who cried in my room today because their parents were fighting last night or this morning. I know who is in my room now and is homeless. I know who just threw up on me because they were sent to school sick. I guess I really don't care.
I am not alone. I am not the minority. I think of the teachers I see every day and cannot think of one who does not fit this profile.
Feel free to comment.
I need to never read the comments from a local paper ever again, I will but, I shouldn't. There was news about the tax levy for my school district and once again people just come out with the claws. I always want to respond but know I should not because it is maddening/I don't want to have work repercussions. I like being employed. Of course, most people don't know how tax levies work and all of the ways of school funding. I don't and I work in it.It is quite complicated.
So, as always, it is stated that teachers are money grubbers who are lazy, do nothing and really don't care about the kids. First in the money grubbing, if you really want to know my salary, go look it up. It is a law that all public teacher salaries are published and accessible to the public. If I wanted to make lots of money and put in the same amount of effort I would not choose teaching. Second, why are teachers not allowed to earn a living wage? We have advanced degrees (that we paid for ourselves) often required to do our jobs.
Lazy? How many hours was I at work today? I might have had only six hours of classroom contact time with the kids. Add the hour long meetings before work, up to seven. Then add another hour+ of after school club, we are at 8 the standard work day. Now, I stay and grade papers, create new lessons, create SMART board (my board was not paid for by the district) pages so my students who learn in more interactive ways have an outlet. I arrive to work close to 7:45 and leave near 5:30 or later every day. I could go on.
If I wanted to have a job that allowed less work or effort, I would have picked a profession that has less emotional toll. I know nothing about many professions and their emotional toll. I do know which of my students come to me hungry or ill cared for. Who cried in my room today because their parents were fighting last night or this morning. I know who is in my room now and is homeless. I know who just threw up on me because they were sent to school sick. I guess I really don't care.
I am not alone. I am not the minority. I think of the teachers I see every day and cannot think of one who does not fit this profile.
Feel free to comment.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Thankful part three
Ok; these first ones are a little repetitious but they each have their own place. So there.
21. My Grandma Pat, she is smart and tells you exactly what she is thinking. There is no filter to her and that is what sometimes is the best. She also has been so generous to me for my whole life. Much of what I have is because of her.
22. My Great-Grandma Ruth. At 96 years old she is sharp as a tack and still willing to learn new things. I think she is so "with it" at 96 because she is still learning every day.
23. My Grandma Kathleen for giving me a huge creative streak and a need to be well dressed.
24. My Grandpa Jerry for his love of nature and fine food. He lets me take over his whole kitchen to try a new recipe and usually gives advice on how we can make it even more superb.
25. Those relatives who are no longer here for those gifts they have given me and stick with me still.
26. Garlic. I could not live in a world where garlic was not in my cooking.
27. Flowers. I have learned to love flowers more and more every year. The amount of colors and shapes and smells are ever new and fascinating.
28. Photography for the new creative outlet is has become to me.
29. Did I say my big family yet? If not, then that. There is so much love in this big crazy family of mine. I have more than 20 aunts and uncles and 20 first cousins. Then there are the family members who lie outside of that first level out of the nuclear family. We are numerous and caring
30. Laughter. As I write this, my dog is upside-down and scratching her back on the rug. It is hilarious. Nothing much else makes you feel good like laughter does.
21. My Grandma Pat, she is smart and tells you exactly what she is thinking. There is no filter to her and that is what sometimes is the best. She also has been so generous to me for my whole life. Much of what I have is because of her.
22. My Great-Grandma Ruth. At 96 years old she is sharp as a tack and still willing to learn new things. I think she is so "with it" at 96 because she is still learning every day.
23. My Grandma Kathleen for giving me a huge creative streak and a need to be well dressed.
24. My Grandpa Jerry for his love of nature and fine food. He lets me take over his whole kitchen to try a new recipe and usually gives advice on how we can make it even more superb.
25. Those relatives who are no longer here for those gifts they have given me and stick with me still.
26. Garlic. I could not live in a world where garlic was not in my cooking.
27. Flowers. I have learned to love flowers more and more every year. The amount of colors and shapes and smells are ever new and fascinating.
28. Photography for the new creative outlet is has become to me.
29. Did I say my big family yet? If not, then that. There is so much love in this big crazy family of mine. I have more than 20 aunts and uncles and 20 first cousins. Then there are the family members who lie outside of that first level out of the nuclear family. We are numerous and caring
30. Laughter. As I write this, my dog is upside-down and scratching her back on the rug. It is hilarious. Nothing much else makes you feel good like laughter does.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Thankful part two aka. the next ten
11. The beautiful apartment I live in. Not only is it an amazing apartment in a place I love but, it is above my grandmother. I get to see her everyday.
12. Beth B. my outstanding friend and Co-worker. She has kept me sane this year and her enthusiasm for things often matches mine.
13. MB and SM the art teachers I work with. They have become much more than just good co-workers.
14. The ability to cook delicious food. Thank goodness for inheriting my mother and grandfather's abilities in the kitchen. I am so blessed to be able to feed myself well.
15. Coffee. 'Nuff said
16. My vet. When you have a dog who has issues, you need a good vet. It took 4 tries but now we have someone who is so good to my dog and also to me.
17. Honest mechanics. I am so not knowledgeable about my car. With my past luck I have needed these guys and gals to tell me in laymen's terms what is really going on.
18. Technology. I rely on technology every day. My smartphone is with me everywhere and my SMART board at work has changed my teaching.
19. Crafting. I am a person who needs to keep busy and this helps me keep busy and relax all at the same time.
20. My students for being continually cute, funny, challenging, and so much more.
12. Beth B. my outstanding friend and Co-worker. She has kept me sane this year and her enthusiasm for things often matches mine.
13. MB and SM the art teachers I work with. They have become much more than just good co-workers.
14. The ability to cook delicious food. Thank goodness for inheriting my mother and grandfather's abilities in the kitchen. I am so blessed to be able to feed myself well.
15. Coffee. 'Nuff said
16. My vet. When you have a dog who has issues, you need a good vet. It took 4 tries but now we have someone who is so good to my dog and also to me.
17. Honest mechanics. I am so not knowledgeable about my car. With my past luck I have needed these guys and gals to tell me in laymen's terms what is really going on.
18. Technology. I rely on technology every day. My smartphone is with me everywhere and my SMART board at work has changed my teaching.
19. Crafting. I am a person who needs to keep busy and this helps me keep busy and relax all at the same time.
20. My students for being continually cute, funny, challenging, and so much more.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Giving Thanks
Thanksgiving is Thursday and there has been a facebook thing going around where people post their daily thankfulness for the month. I can't do that because I am too flighty to remember every day. I do think I can do three posts of 10. Here is the first third of the list for the month.
1. My Husband, Kyle, who stands by and lets me be who I am and is still smiling after 3+ years of marriage and way more than that of being together.
2. The Dog. Charlotte Eloise Snufflepants is my furry, non-verbal child. She provides endless hours of entertainment and love.
3. My mother. She is so smart and cares so hard about what she does. I know that she makes a huge difference in the lives of the students in her school. She shapes my ideas of what it is to be a great teacher.
4. My father who is talented, generous, and so very funny. He is always there to bail me out and make me laugh until my sides hurt.
5. My sister and brother who understand my quirks and where they come from. Even if they do make fun of me for them.
6. My general health. I may work in the germiest of environments and get the occasional cold, strep, etc.. I am a healthy person and I really am thankful for that.
7. My carreer for being constantly challenging and rewarding.
8. Susan G. for being the best friend that anyone could ask for. No one can out weird us.
9. My second job of working at the garden center. Who knew I would live plants so much?
10. My sofa. It is the most comfortable and after a long day of teaching small humans to be creative, nothing beats it.
1. My Husband, Kyle, who stands by and lets me be who I am and is still smiling after 3+ years of marriage and way more than that of being together.
2. The Dog. Charlotte Eloise Snufflepants is my furry, non-verbal child. She provides endless hours of entertainment and love.
3. My mother. She is so smart and cares so hard about what she does. I know that she makes a huge difference in the lives of the students in her school. She shapes my ideas of what it is to be a great teacher.
4. My father who is talented, generous, and so very funny. He is always there to bail me out and make me laugh until my sides hurt.
5. My sister and brother who understand my quirks and where they come from. Even if they do make fun of me for them.
6. My general health. I may work in the germiest of environments and get the occasional cold, strep, etc.. I am a healthy person and I really am thankful for that.
7. My carreer for being constantly challenging and rewarding.
8. Susan G. for being the best friend that anyone could ask for. No one can out weird us.
9. My second job of working at the garden center. Who knew I would live plants so much?
10. My sofa. It is the most comfortable and after a long day of teaching small humans to be creative, nothing beats it.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Said by or to small people
Teacher: no I don't think skittles are a good choice for snack
Student following a rhythm with eighths and quarter notes: chuckie chuckie chuckie cheese, chuckie cheese, chuckie cheese, chuckie chuckie chuckie chuckie chuckie chuckie cheeeeeeeese! (Bonus points intou can guess the song)
I can write my teacher's name for her on the ROAR award (behavior award) student then proceeds to spell their teacher's name with almost half of the letters missing.
Student following a rhythm with eighths and quarter notes: chuckie chuckie chuckie cheese, chuckie cheese, chuckie cheese, chuckie chuckie chuckie chuckie chuckie chuckie cheeeeeeeese! (Bonus points intou can guess the song)
I can write my teacher's name for her on the ROAR award (behavior award) student then proceeds to spell their teacher's name with almost half of the letters missing.
Friday, October 26, 2012
The hard part of my job
"I am leaving early because I am going to a doctor today. We are going to play games together and he is going to learn about my feelings."
This is something I wish for a first grader to never have to say to me. It is a part of taking care of problems. I wish for 6 year olds to not have these kinds of struggles in their lives.
This is something I wish for a first grader to never have to say to me. It is a part of taking care of problems. I wish for 6 year olds to not have these kinds of struggles in their lives.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Full
This morning I was using Popsicle sticks with my first graders to make rhythm sentences. Someone asked I these were real Popsicle sticks. I said yes thy are real but not from Popsicles I ate. Just bought like they are now. I said if I ate the many I would have a big belly ache. Someone in the room then said "and you would also have a really big belly!"
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Nope, no babies
A female student today asked about if I was a kid, teenager, or a-dull. That's right kids, once you pass you teens, you are "A Dull."
Then a male student popped in with, "Um, duh she is an adult. She is a teacher."
Then he asked "So are you married then?"
I respond "yes"
Kid "so do you have kids then"
Me "no"
kid "are you pregnant"
me "no"
kid "Are you making a baby?"
Me "um, no?"
kid "Why not? Don't you want any?"
me "Sure. I just don't have any right now and I have 500 of you guys here to worry about. I do have a dog though" *attempting to make the kid accept that this is ok
kid "I guess that is ok" *totally disappointed with my answer
Then a male student popped in with, "Um, duh she is an adult. She is a teacher."
Then he asked "So are you married then?"
I respond "yes"
Kid "so do you have kids then"
Me "no"
kid "are you pregnant"
me "no"
kid "Are you making a baby?"
Me "um, no?"
kid "Why not? Don't you want any?"
me "Sure. I just don't have any right now and I have 500 of you guys here to worry about. I do have a dog though" *attempting to make the kid accept that this is ok
kid "I guess that is ok" *totally disappointed with my answer
Fit
Have you ever seen a third grader do push ups? Hilarious. For that matter most other calisthenics. *thoughts from supervising the after school PE program.
Monday, October 1, 2012
healthy breakfast
This morning I had a first grade class get a little silly. When we had a calm down a breathe time a little girl tells me "I think some of us had a piece of chocolate for breakfast" two moments later "because it has a lot of sugar in it to make us hyper"
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
10K
I broke the 10K mark in my runs. Finally. I got stuck at 5K for a while and I could get just past the distance but was stuck just about there. I am signing my self up for the Hot Chocolate 15K and am so determined to finish well. For me that is not really a time, I know I am slow paced. For me it is not walking at all.
This is a big deal for me because just over a year ago I was barely able to finish a whole mile without walking. Especially frustrating because I used to play soccer, that meant running for almost 90 minutes without stopping. In the school mile runs I was always finishing under 8 minute miles. I think my longest time was a (to me) pathetic 9:15. Now I am thrilled when I am faster than 10 minute miles.
Today I ran 6.85 miles. I passed the 10K barrier both physically and emotionally.
Go me!
This is a big deal for me because just over a year ago I was barely able to finish a whole mile without walking. Especially frustrating because I used to play soccer, that meant running for almost 90 minutes without stopping. In the school mile runs I was always finishing under 8 minute miles. I think my longest time was a (to me) pathetic 9:15. Now I am thrilled when I am faster than 10 minute miles.
Today I ran 6.85 miles. I passed the 10K barrier both physically and emotionally.
Go me!
Monday, September 24, 2012
Just another day at the office
Student: these markers make me dizzy. Me: these aren't the smelly kind they are dry erase. Stop smelling them.
Teachers outside my room giving their kids a bathroom break wished me luck on this class.
Teachers outside my room giving their kids a bathroom break wished me luck on this class.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Restful
It is the first Saturday in over 2 months that I am not at work or doing something that has been scheduled for months. Kyle and I have my parent's poodle with us as they are on vacation so it was a calm and sleepy morning with two furry friends in the bed. The clouds and wind are pushing the crazy hot air away to make room for fall.
We sat outside last night looking for the blue moon with grandma and my aunt until after eleven and it was so lovely to just sit and talk until we got too tired.
Mornings like this are so rare for means so appreciated as ways to rejuvenate from what can often be way too busy and stressful.
Happy, sleepy, slow morning to the world!
We sat outside last night looking for the blue moon with grandma and my aunt until after eleven and it was so lovely to just sit and talk until we got too tired.
Mornings like this are so rare for means so appreciated as ways to rejuvenate from what can often be way too busy and stressful.
Happy, sleepy, slow morning to the world!
Friday, August 31, 2012
First week quotes and stories
When asked when we might use a singing voice a little girl told me "when Mommy is sad you can sing to her."
Also, a colleague told a story of when a student got their head stuck in their chair on the first day. One more reason to say "bottoms on the chair not in the air"
Also, a colleague told a story of when a student got their head stuck in their chair on the first day. One more reason to say "bottoms on the chair not in the air"
Friday, August 17, 2012
Back to School
Today is the last day of my summer. True there are two days of the weekend, but that doesn't count. Back to work on Monday and then kids come back Wednesday. I have been back quite a few times over the last week to get my room set up.
Time to return to routine, back to more stress (not always bad), back to what I love the most. Teaching children.
I can't wait to see them coming in on the first few days. The students who I know and the brand new first graders who have only been to half day school until this year.
Such anticipation.
Time to return to routine, back to more stress (not always bad), back to what I love the most. Teaching children.
I can't wait to see them coming in on the first few days. The students who I know and the brand new first graders who have only been to half day school until this year.
Such anticipation.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Wanting and having
It can be so easy to fall into the trap of wanting and forgetting what you have. Right now, for me it is a DSLR camera. Specifically the Canon T3i. It is so far out of my budget. But I want it so badly that I forget all of the wonderful things I have. Many of those things that people have given me because they knew I could not afford it, including the beautiful computer that I am typing on.
How do we avoid wanting things we do not need? What has happened to my mindset that has made me want this unnecessary piece of equipment so badly?
In other news, I do have a classroom to get decorated and organized. It is such a task. I will later take pictures with my current camera (a pocket sized point and shoot that I was given as a college graduation gift). It will be lovely once I obsess over the details a little more.
How do we avoid wanting things we do not need? What has happened to my mindset that has made me want this unnecessary piece of equipment so badly?
In other news, I do have a classroom to get decorated and organized. It is such a task. I will later take pictures with my current camera (a pocket sized point and shoot that I was given as a college graduation gift). It will be lovely once I obsess over the details a little more.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Olympics
I love the Olympics.
To a point of obsession. If I am home, the tv is on and whatever sport is being broadcast has my attention.
Winter or Summer, I love them.
The problem is that I love them just so much that I think it might be affecting my blood pressure.
If I have children ever, they may not be able to compete in anything because the veins in my forehead will explode.
To a point of obsession. If I am home, the tv is on and whatever sport is being broadcast has my attention.
Winter or Summer, I love them.
The problem is that I love them just so much that I think it might be affecting my blood pressure.
If I have children ever, they may not be able to compete in anything because the veins in my forehead will explode.
Monday, July 16, 2012
I am standing in my back yard being as quiet and still as I can while birds play on my soaker hoses. They are standing on them as the hoses weep water and sticking their wings where it sprays. Such a peaceful and beautiful moment. I wish I could have grabbed my camera but it would have caused them all to fly away.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
A Birthday
So, I have a birthday coming up in about a month. I read an article today about a man who gave out $5 to people on the street and carried a sign about how he had things and was willing to buy you a cup of coffee. It was all part of his 6th birthday and he was doing 65 random acts of kindness that day/week. I saw a similar blog that had a woman turning 38 do the same thing. Because it will be my 27th birthday. I think I should do 27 random acts of kindness. All ideas are welcome. Please comment on your idea on what kind of act you think I should do. There are few better feelings than the feeling you get from giving.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Workout update
Ok, so along with the garden center, I have tried my best to keep a fairly regular workout schedule to combat the school year bulge. I am not losing large amounts of weight, not should I really but, I am down about 2 pounds and a friend who had not seen me since school got out commented on how I was looking like I had lost a few inches.
Mostly, I want to be strong like I was in high school and right before I got married. To me it is not no much about the number but a really good feeling when I am pushing my body and muscles to a peak. It just feels good to be strong.
Today, I did a 2 hour, back to back workout class. First a pilates/yoga type class and then a dance aerobic/core class. I came home feeling like I might be able to do at least another half hour.
I think I am getting closer to where I want to be.
Now on to the garden! Those weeds have a price on their heads.
*Update*
I went Kayaking on a lake with my aunt later and had the most sore shoulders ever.What a day.
Mostly, I want to be strong like I was in high school and right before I got married. To me it is not no much about the number but a really good feeling when I am pushing my body and muscles to a peak. It just feels good to be strong.
Today, I did a 2 hour, back to back workout class. First a pilates/yoga type class and then a dance aerobic/core class. I came home feeling like I might be able to do at least another half hour.
I think I am getting closer to where I want to be.
Now on to the garden! Those weeds have a price on their heads.
*Update*
I went Kayaking on a lake with my aunt later and had the most sore shoulders ever.What a day.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
The deck and the table
This is the deck now. It will be beautiful and tolerable to sit in once I get through with it.
There will be at least 2 more coats.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
productivity day 2
Today I re-assumed the productivity persona and got stuff done for my second day of summer break. Today involved going to the hardware store to scope out more stuff for my planter boxes, buying some major plants, fixing the fountain, plating more fillers in the pots by the house, creating a new annual bed in the front yard, starting my garlic seedlings, potting the meyer lemon tree, and ripping out/weed whacking tons of weedy plants where the new, big plants are going, and spraying weeds in the patio brick.
Then after dinner I went to Zumba
So loving the schedule. I could get used to this.
Tomorrow, working at the barn.
Then after dinner I went to Zumba
So loving the schedule. I could get used to this.
Tomorrow, working at the barn.
Monday, June 4, 2012
summer of productivity
Well it is summer break and I have time to do all of the things that have been put off. Today I was able todrop off a mountain of dry cleaning, get the oil changed in the car, finifh packing my classroom, have lunch with a friend, go to the bank, pick up the dry cleaning, shop for dnner food, and maake dinner. I am always amazed by the burst of energy that comes with the first day off in a while. I do still have a part time job a few days a week to keep me from doing too much around the house or getting slovenly. Thegarden center itself though is a great job for this busy teacher.
I hope to keepthis pace up to not only catch up on pushed aside projects but, also get ahead on the things that will build up when school starts againg in August.
Things I wish to do include: setting up my crafty stuff, tending to my already thrilling veggie garden, buildingnew planter boxes for a vertical garden on the deck, and many more!
Sunday, May 27, 2012
in cognito
So, during the summer time, I hang up my teacher hat and pick up my gardener hat. It is a welcome reprieve from my daily usual. I love teaching music with every fiber of me but, I realize how much I love this break from teaching and learning. Working at the garden center is methodical. There are the same needs every day. Water the plants, ring up the customers, and all the other things that come with it.
Last year, I went back to school myself and spent the summer being a student of special education. It was wonderful but, I never left thinking about teaching. At the garden center, I thing about plants. Plants are so different than children. Their needs are all about the same and they don't change what they need.
Today I worked in the garden center store ringing up customers, watered, and planted large planter boxes. I then came home and worked on my own vegetable garden and planters.
I love planting. Planting is so hopeful. Small little seedlings that have the potential to get so large and give so much. Unlike the full size plants they are easy to put into neat rows. In a few weeks the seedlings will be larger and stronger. No fruits or vegetables on them but more hope that they will provide us with food.
Happy planting to all and bring on the garden questions. I prepared with answers to your growing (plants that is) questions.
Last year, I went back to school myself and spent the summer being a student of special education. It was wonderful but, I never left thinking about teaching. At the garden center, I thing about plants. Plants are so different than children. Their needs are all about the same and they don't change what they need.
Today I worked in the garden center store ringing up customers, watered, and planted large planter boxes. I then came home and worked on my own vegetable garden and planters.
I love planting. Planting is so hopeful. Small little seedlings that have the potential to get so large and give so much. Unlike the full size plants they are easy to put into neat rows. In a few weeks the seedlings will be larger and stronger. No fruits or vegetables on them but more hope that they will provide us with food.
Happy planting to all and bring on the garden questions. I prepared with answers to your growing (plants that is) questions.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
joy
Today in my second grade classes we listened to the 3rd movement of Beethoven's 6th symphony. This section is called "A Happy Gathering of Country Folk" and is a musical description of a community gathering. I told my students just that and nothing else. I wrote on the board what they needed to do and stopped talking. They were to then draw what kind of a gathering they thought it was. The resulting images nearly brought me to tears.
Drawings of all sorts of celebrations now fill my room. From birthdays, to religious holidays, to friends sitting around a campfire roasting marshmallows. One in particular jumped at me. It says "They are singing with joy" and is filled with people singing together.
*pictures to come when I take them*
Drawings of all sorts of celebrations now fill my room. From birthdays, to religious holidays, to friends sitting around a campfire roasting marshmallows. One in particular jumped at me. It says "They are singing with joy" and is filled with people singing together.
*pictures to come when I take them*
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Today in second grade there was a wedding. Q and U got married. The parents were invited and the kids all came to school dressed up for the event. It may have been one of the cutest moments ever for me to see at work. super love to the small people.
Also, today I had a first grade student ask about the guy holding a violin poster on my wall. They asked if it hurt his finger to play it. I tried to explain and realized "Hey! I have my cello here today because it was second grade string family day in my room. So, I let the kids come up to me holding the cello and let them chose to pluck or try the bow. What a great moment it was with all of them taking a turn, being careful, applauding their peers when they played, and then watching and listening with the biggest eyes ever. Sometimes you just have to throw out the curriculum and do what feels good for right now.
Also, today I had a first grade student ask about the guy holding a violin poster on my wall. They asked if it hurt his finger to play it. I tried to explain and realized "Hey! I have my cello here today because it was second grade string family day in my room. So, I let the kids come up to me holding the cello and let them chose to pluck or try the bow. What a great moment it was with all of them taking a turn, being careful, applauding their peers when they played, and then watching and listening with the biggest eyes ever. Sometimes you just have to throw out the curriculum and do what feels good for right now.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
My Soapbox
To the possibly four people reading this, I appreciate your tax dollars supporting the education of OUR children.
I realize that having different viewpoints gives our world a better balance and keeps things in check. I realize that if everyone thought and acted and believed like I do, it actually might not be a good thing.
I realize that there are some who I can not change the minds of no matter how much I disagree with them. I know that yelling about my way is best will not work.
That being said, I cannot and refuse to understand why people, people who I love, think that it is wrong to be required to pay taxes to the school system when their children are not in the system. How if you own property in a place that is not near where your own children go to school how you shouldn't have to pay education taxes on it. How the teachers should VOLUNTEER to do their jobs.
I am a teacher. A music teacher. so this affects me personally both emotionally and in the pocket.
I am a teacher because I am one to my very core. I have a passion for early elementary students and the fine arts. I went into this world knowing that I will never be wealthy or even considered well paid by normal business standards. I get it. But, how is it that I should not be afforded a paycheck for my work? Do I not have lots and lots of expensive education that I paid for that makes me qualified? If I was in any other profession with the same amount of education and experience, no one would question that I was deserving of a paycheck, much less one that is enough to live on.
Then there is the issue of funding public education. Taxes suck. Yes, they do. Taxes cost a lot. Yes, they do. Sure there are other ways of funding schools other than property taxes, those places exist and they pay a whole lot more in income tax than we do. They are also much smaller countries full of fairly homogeneous people. It makes it easier. Why, we are a big country with lots of people with different backgrounds and ideas etc.
We want to live in a world where people are educated. You might not think it, but you do. I am not talking about making every one a doctor or a lawyer or Ph.D in their area but, you want your world to be filled with high school graduates. You want the person behind the register at the fast food place to give you the right change, the right order, know how to work the computer screen they have in front of them. You want your fellow drivers to understand how the road works.
How do you get this, you pay your taxes and shut up.
Even though you may not have children currently attending the school system, even if you pay for private school for your kids, even if you home school, you want your neighbors to have an education. Plan and simple. Education for all is the best option. It is what our country needs. Education is not a reward for being wealthy in our country. It is a right given to all no matter where you come from.
I realize that having different viewpoints gives our world a better balance and keeps things in check. I realize that if everyone thought and acted and believed like I do, it actually might not be a good thing.
I realize that there are some who I can not change the minds of no matter how much I disagree with them. I know that yelling about my way is best will not work.
That being said, I cannot and refuse to understand why people, people who I love, think that it is wrong to be required to pay taxes to the school system when their children are not in the system. How if you own property in a place that is not near where your own children go to school how you shouldn't have to pay education taxes on it. How the teachers should VOLUNTEER to do their jobs.
I am a teacher. A music teacher. so this affects me personally both emotionally and in the pocket.
I am a teacher because I am one to my very core. I have a passion for early elementary students and the fine arts. I went into this world knowing that I will never be wealthy or even considered well paid by normal business standards. I get it. But, how is it that I should not be afforded a paycheck for my work? Do I not have lots and lots of expensive education that I paid for that makes me qualified? If I was in any other profession with the same amount of education and experience, no one would question that I was deserving of a paycheck, much less one that is enough to live on.
Then there is the issue of funding public education. Taxes suck. Yes, they do. Taxes cost a lot. Yes, they do. Sure there are other ways of funding schools other than property taxes, those places exist and they pay a whole lot more in income tax than we do. They are also much smaller countries full of fairly homogeneous people. It makes it easier. Why, we are a big country with lots of people with different backgrounds and ideas etc.
We want to live in a world where people are educated. You might not think it, but you do. I am not talking about making every one a doctor or a lawyer or Ph.D in their area but, you want your world to be filled with high school graduates. You want the person behind the register at the fast food place to give you the right change, the right order, know how to work the computer screen they have in front of them. You want your fellow drivers to understand how the road works.
How do you get this, you pay your taxes and shut up.
Even though you may not have children currently attending the school system, even if you pay for private school for your kids, even if you home school, you want your neighbors to have an education. Plan and simple. Education for all is the best option. It is what our country needs. Education is not a reward for being wealthy in our country. It is a right given to all no matter where you come from.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Where the watermelons grow...
In first grade music class we have been singing the song "Down by the Bay" and the project then turns into the kids making their own verses, writing them down, and then drawing the accompanying pictures. While going over one class' work I found that when given the direction to find 2 nouns that rhyme and put a verb in between them, my student gave us the verse of "have you ever seen a tart make a big stinky fart?"
In other news, I caught the same 2 girls at the back of the bus doing the same thing as yesterday. They will never learn that I caught them once and will keep checking. Still funny.
In other news, I caught the same 2 girls at the back of the bus doing the same thing as yesterday. They will never learn that I caught them once and will keep checking. Still funny.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
trying not to laugh
So many times today I had to not laugh at my students for something they were doing. There was the first grader who was mad that someone narked on him that he licked the garbage can (twice), the one who was in the time out chair and fell out of the chair, and so many more.
The best was by far the girls at the back of a bus at pm bus calls. I am stationed outside this week right by where the buses load and unload. While the bus was loading, two little girls at the back of the bus were out of their seats and kept slamming themselves in the back bus window/door and sliding down like the splatted into the window.
I then had to look and then, point and say sit down and ruin their fun, mostly because this is not safe bus riding behavior. But, part of me was glad I told them before their bus driver caught them out of their seats and wrote them up. I had to turn around and laugh for a long time. So many more times that I dont remember either other than the laughing while turned away.
I do have a poster in my room on top of a white board. There are things that kids say that make me laugh written under it. It is my secret laugh stash. Maybe tomorrow I will share these.
The best was by far the girls at the back of a bus at pm bus calls. I am stationed outside this week right by where the buses load and unload. While the bus was loading, two little girls at the back of the bus were out of their seats and kept slamming themselves in the back bus window/door and sliding down like the splatted into the window.
I then had to look and then, point and say sit down and ruin their fun, mostly because this is not safe bus riding behavior. But, part of me was glad I told them before their bus driver caught them out of their seats and wrote them up. I had to turn around and laugh for a long time. So many more times that I dont remember either other than the laughing while turned away.
I do have a poster in my room on top of a white board. There are things that kids say that make me laugh written under it. It is my secret laugh stash. Maybe tomorrow I will share these.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
What a difference...
I have a problem. Wide feet. These feet make finding certain types of shoes difficult to find. Well, I have found 2 new pairs! One is one of those funky minimus shoes from New balance for when I run on the dreadmill. The other are some Brooks stability shoes. I spent way more than I ever have but man oh man does that change how running feels.
In other aspects of life, we are moving in just over a week. SO much packing to be done.
In other aspects of life, we are moving in just over a week. SO much packing to be done.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
covet
I am not knitter. I have tried. I crochet, sew, and cook. But, lately I have been seriously coveting hand knit socks. So many adorable patterns. So, any knitters out there want to send me some? I promise a crocheted/sewn item/baked good in return. I make some killer chocolate chip cookies.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Quiet Evening
Here I sit on my couch with the dog. She is snoring. Typical.
As usual, it was a busy day full of teaching, running after school activities, and a good work out. Tonight I went to BodyCombat. Kind of a cardio martial arts class. It always kicks my butt. I am starting to feel a little stronger then the last time I went and it is a promising sign to me not dying during the 5K.
I realize so many times as I type into this blog how much I have to leave out. It might be why I am such a sporadic blogger. It is mostly because so much of my job has to be kept confidential.
So here I sit, alone and quiet on the couch with the dog. The first time of my day not full of sounds. Well, the dog is snoring and my fingers type on the keys, but those are the only sounds.
Not much is stranger than a sleeping bulldog. Scratch that, not much is stranger than a bulldog. Some how cute though all of that weird smooshy face. Snoring and looking much like a large furry turd. Such an excellent cuddler. Possible due to the excess amounts of skin. Oh Charlotte.
As usual, it was a busy day full of teaching, running after school activities, and a good work out. Tonight I went to BodyCombat. Kind of a cardio martial arts class. It always kicks my butt. I am starting to feel a little stronger then the last time I went and it is a promising sign to me not dying during the 5K.
I realize so many times as I type into this blog how much I have to leave out. It might be why I am such a sporadic blogger. It is mostly because so much of my job has to be kept confidential.
So here I sit, alone and quiet on the couch with the dog. The first time of my day not full of sounds. Well, the dog is snoring and my fingers type on the keys, but those are the only sounds.
Not much is stranger than a sleeping bulldog. Scratch that, not much is stranger than a bulldog. Some how cute though all of that weird smooshy face. Snoring and looking much like a large furry turd. Such an excellent cuddler. Possible due to the excess amounts of skin. Oh Charlotte.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Saturday, March 31, 2012
So I am running
My family is made up of runners. I have never been one. I tried in junior high and was on the track team (they took everyone). My event was the 400. A race that is neither long distance or a sprint. I think I only ran it because no one wanted to run it and I could sort of do it. I did ok. Once I took 3rd at a meet but found out later that they only announced 1 and 2 at the awards. SO, I figured running was not for me. I did play soccer after all and did lots of exercise there. Then college can and I did marching band in the fall. 4 years of it and no matter what you say, it did keep me in pretty good condition. Fast forward to finding yoga and loving it. thought I would do that forever. Yeah, about that...
Inner peace can wait until I can afford a membership to a quality studio or my current health club moves classes out of the conference room.
So, my school PTA is doing a 5K and I signed up. I am back to running. The funny thing is, I don't totally hate it. Yes, my whole family runs 10K and half marathons, and whole marathons at the drop of a hat but this is my start. For now, 5K is kinda tough and I can just make it through the whole distance without wanting to fall over.
Inner peace can wait until I can afford a membership to a quality studio or my current health club moves classes out of the conference room.
So, my school PTA is doing a 5K and I signed up. I am back to running. The funny thing is, I don't totally hate it. Yes, my whole family runs 10K and half marathons, and whole marathons at the drop of a hat but this is my start. For now, 5K is kinda tough and I can just make it through the whole distance without wanting to fall over.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Spring Break
Ahh spring break. How much we teachers look forward to you more than the kids. I am making the most of my break by taking a day trip to Galena with my DH, going shopping and spending way too much money, exercising every day, and getting general work around the house done. So much packing to do for our move across town, clothes to wash, rooms to clean, and yard work to do.
Typically I like to go away for a camping trip on this week of bliss but moving plans have dictated that packing and house prepping happen. What a nice break from life this is.
Typically I like to go away for a camping trip on this week of bliss but moving plans have dictated that packing and house prepping happen. What a nice break from life this is.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
patience
Today was an exercise in patience, in all aspects of my life. Too much stuff that is confidential and not post-able.
So many moments today when I was unsure if I should yell, scream, get quiet, or strangle someone. Then, i managed to mess up something in my throat. I am not quite sure if it is a sick thing or if I managed to break my voice with overuse. Either way, it hurts to talk and I am not good at being on vocal rest.
So today in first grade, we are working on the story of The Firebird and Igor Stravinsky's musical interpretation of the story. It is a long unit. Because I had no voice to use, we got to color all of the pictures of the main characters to put on Popsicle sticks. One student gave me his stack of papers and told me that he arranged them with good guys on top of the stack and bad guys on the bottom of the stack.
Let's hope that tomorrow brings back my voice and fewer lessons in patience.
So many moments today when I was unsure if I should yell, scream, get quiet, or strangle someone. Then, i managed to mess up something in my throat. I am not quite sure if it is a sick thing or if I managed to break my voice with overuse. Either way, it hurts to talk and I am not good at being on vocal rest.
So today in first grade, we are working on the story of The Firebird and Igor Stravinsky's musical interpretation of the story. It is a long unit. Because I had no voice to use, we got to color all of the pictures of the main characters to put on Popsicle sticks. One student gave me his stack of papers and told me that he arranged them with good guys on top of the stack and bad guys on the bottom of the stack.
Let's hope that tomorrow brings back my voice and fewer lessons in patience.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Read the Riot Act
Today. Ugh today. I had to read the riot act to three classes today. A parent called me about a serious issue at 8:30am. If not for the quick reflexes of a co-worker, I nearly took a soccer ball to the face.
The real problem is respect. The students are all not showing respect to each other and their teachers. Serious amounts of eye rolling, talking back (I hate that phrase, we need a new one), general disregard for directions, and so much more. I have multiple students who will just sit there and make irritating noises at their classmates.
How do we address this in a new way?
Sadly, the kids who are trying constantly to do the right thing get squashed and punished for things the disrespectful group does. In one class I gave a speech to I got letters of apology from students. What crushed me is that they were all students who had done nothing wrong. Those who are already doing well are going above and beyond to make up for others.
Learning should be fun. You want to learn when it is fun. I want to make my class enjoyable. These moments where I have to stop everything and address respect again and again make it very difficult to keep the learning fun.
The real problem is respect. The students are all not showing respect to each other and their teachers. Serious amounts of eye rolling, talking back (I hate that phrase, we need a new one), general disregard for directions, and so much more. I have multiple students who will just sit there and make irritating noises at their classmates.
How do we address this in a new way?
Sadly, the kids who are trying constantly to do the right thing get squashed and punished for things the disrespectful group does. In one class I gave a speech to I got letters of apology from students. What crushed me is that they were all students who had done nothing wrong. Those who are already doing well are going above and beyond to make up for others.
Learning should be fun. You want to learn when it is fun. I want to make my class enjoyable. These moments where I have to stop everything and address respect again and again make it very difficult to keep the learning fun.
1,2,3, HEY
A third grader asked me today if we could do a conga line in the hall instead of walking quietly. Sadly, I had to say no. I really wanted to say yes.
p.s. It was not me who really had to make the no decision.
p.s. It was not me who really had to make the no decision.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Alternative energy
Today my second graders and I were discussing what to wear for our upcoming concerts. We talked about what to wear and how you should wear something like you would for picture day. No tuxedos required. A student then told me he was going to wear his tux and arrive in a limo. He also informed me that his limo was powered on burps.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Does that make me Crazy!!!!!!!!!!!
The children have been going nutters for the last two weeks. Yesterday was the best/worst. The disrespectful behavior and lack of regard for others has been mind numbing. Sometimes the lack of regard is also for one's self. I feel like I am always catching someone kicking/punching/ tattling/defacing/destroying something or someone.I have made more phone calls these past two weeks than ever before.
I had a student come up to me crying. He had sat on his own hand and moved without moving his hand and had smooshed it so bad it hurt him.
During that same class we played a passing game. There were 5 in time out at once.
One of my students in a special education classroom refused to go to art today because she wanted to come to music instead. I was flattered but, it was a five minute showdown or refusal in the hallway.
Para: "You need to go to art." Student: "NO!!" (this happened about 14 times)
This student's classmate also busted into my room after fleeing the art room for the same reason. we caught them mid tug on the door with their face smooshed into the glass of the door window.
By the way, the art teacher is a lovely woman and a friend of mine. She is also a wonderful teacher. There is no reason for this kids to not want to go to art other than wanting to do what I was doing.
These midwinter nutso times make teaching a trying profession.
The screaming through the halls, indoor recesses, and emotional breakdowns tax the minds of all.
Last, there is a student teacher in the building who noticed that there are always sweets in the building. Cookies, candy, chocolates...
When asking why they were always there the response was "They won't let us have anything stronger"
I had a student come up to me crying. He had sat on his own hand and moved without moving his hand and had smooshed it so bad it hurt him.
During that same class we played a passing game. There were 5 in time out at once.
One of my students in a special education classroom refused to go to art today because she wanted to come to music instead. I was flattered but, it was a five minute showdown or refusal in the hallway.
Para: "You need to go to art." Student: "NO!!" (this happened about 14 times)
This student's classmate also busted into my room after fleeing the art room for the same reason. we caught them mid tug on the door with their face smooshed into the glass of the door window.
By the way, the art teacher is a lovely woman and a friend of mine. She is also a wonderful teacher. There is no reason for this kids to not want to go to art other than wanting to do what I was doing.
These midwinter nutso times make teaching a trying profession.
The screaming through the halls, indoor recesses, and emotional breakdowns tax the minds of all.
Last, there is a student teacher in the building who noticed that there are always sweets in the building. Cookies, candy, chocolates...
When asking why they were always there the response was "They won't let us have anything stronger"
Sunday, January 29, 2012
All-State
I just got back from my all state music teacher conference and I have to say, every year it refreshes me to be a better teacher. I am filled with new ideas and motivation to be more like some of the people I saw present. Granted, there is always a feeling of "how are they able to do all this amazing stuff and I can barely..." Still, I am filled with new things and new energy to be a better teacher. Watch out students. I have stuff to try!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
roots
This past Sunday I went back to me and starting to sing again. Sing again you say? You sing every day as part of your job. This is true but, those songs are for children, explain music on a basic level, and are wonderful for those in developmental ages around 5-10. I love my job but, it does not do one thing for sure. Help me grow as a musician.
It is a small, semi-pro, a capella ensemble that sings on the north side and they are lovely. It was a little scary to start singing again. Kyle already sang with this group so that made it a little easier to join in.We are singing some really hard music too. I am so excited to flex my vocal chords and sing "grown up" music again. I feel a little more like me.
It is a small, semi-pro, a capella ensemble that sings on the north side and they are lovely. It was a little scary to start singing again. Kyle already sang with this group so that made it a little easier to join in.We are singing some really hard music too. I am so excited to flex my vocal chords and sing "grown up" music again. I feel a little more like me.
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