Too Much Time on Your Hands?

Bored? Looking for something to entertain yourselves? Why don't you pick on these clowns, and leave me alone!

I Heart Art

Seeing as I said I wouldn't post about my students/school experiences, and also seeing how that has left me postless for quite sometime, I will instead share some things I've learned in my class. We have been comparing/contrasting Classical, Medieval and Renaissance art for the past week, and I really have started to love it!

I really like a lot of it, but I am fascinated with works by Michelangelo. They are amazing!

My favorite of favorites, that I cannot wait to see when we go to Europe, which I anticipate will draw a tear or two.... drumroll please.... Michelangelo's Pieta.



Running a very close and beautiful second... The David. There are no words.


Finally, I debated whether to go with another of his sculptures, but then opted to appreciate the Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel.


Hopefully this will suffice as a post. I know it's not much but I am pretty narrowly focused these days. I'd love to hear if you have any favorite pieces from this or any other time.

I'm Not a Fraud!

Sorry for the long break in my posting, but I have had to prioritize and unfortunately blogging is a bit lower on the list. But I am back, at least for this evening.

Anyway, I have been working really hard to get everything ready for my students, who start back tomorrow. I find this year to be a bit different to the previous two because first, I am thrilled to be teaching AP Euro, and second, because I am feeling more settled with my abilities as a teacher. All of this is good, but I didn't really reflect on it too much until today when I received a call from a parent of an AP student with concerns. I was shocked and so pleased with my handling of the conversation. I was confident, calm and quite intelligent sounding...And I think he was impressed. It was awesome! I feel like I am actually a teacher... FINALLY!

It is so strange how self-perception is usually so far from what we truly are.

Also, if you are interested to see what my students are doing, check out our AP Euro blog... just please don't post.

Lull

Sorry I have been in a bit of a blogging funk lately. There really just hasn't been much to write about. Things are great, just not blog-worthy. So hang in there for the next two weeks with me as the summer winds down. I am sure this fall will bring lots of excitement, and hopefully more blogging.

Ah Rats!

So I have been wanting to post this for the last week, but haven't had the computer access or the energy to do so until now.

As some of you know, I spent last weekend with my grandma. She is currently recovering from from an illness and doing quite well, but still requiring a lot of help, which my aunts have been doing most of the time. I volunteered to go stay with her to give them a break and to spend time with her.

On my way up, last Friday I got a call from my mom saying that there was another guest at Grandma's, a rat. Apparently things were being knocked off the shelves, a few droppings were found, and my aunt Mary had come face to face with it in the bathroom in the middle of the night.

*Note: My oldest aunt, Judy, has been the leader in my grandma's care, staying with her the most, and OF COURSE has many phobias but none worse than her fear of mice and rats.

So I arrived. Meeting my grandma and Judy at grandma's, before we all went elsewhere for the evening, while the rat was hopefully caught. While we gathered my grandma's stuff I talked to Judy about the clues of the rat, casually mentioning that Mary had seen it. "OH NO, no one has seen it!" Ah, apparently we were keeping Judy in the dark... Great! So off we went for Friday night.

Saturday we went back to the house, with Judy conviced that there was no rat because nothing had been caught. We were to sleep there that night, and though I was careful entering rooms I wasn't really scared. We had checked under my bed, and closed the door so my room was sealed.. .Or so I thought. Amdist a good deep sleep I was awoken to the feeling of feet scampering down my chest. I tried not to make any sudden moves, hoping to get my bearings and gage whether I was just dreaming. Well, I must have budged a bit when I awoke because I felt it hop to my feet just before I flung the covers from me. All of which was in complete darkness. By the time I got the light on, it was no where to be seen... But there was no way in hell I was sleeping in there. So off I went to the couch in the living room. Each time I would begin to doze off I heard it running around the kitchen. It wasn't until the sun came up that I truly could relax because it was bedtime for the rat. (Inhale). TWEET! TWEET! TWEET! My grandma's whistle, 8am, she needed something, and so I was up.

Then Judy calls, "So any rat sightings?" "Uh, no not exactly... I think I heard it though..." But I just couldn't bring myself to tell her about my bed buddy. Thankfully I left that afternoon, and soon after Judy was informed of the sighting, so then they actually hired someone to take care of it. They ended up catching the rat. 8 inch body, and just as long of a tail. Fantastic!

So that is my long winded, rat story. The rest of the week was just AP Conference and time with cousins. Good times, but not really news worthy.

What Old Movie Am I?

Since I have had to use my cousin's computer this week, and I have been quite busy at the conference I haven't had much time to blog. I did, however, have time to find out what old movie I am...

What Classic Movie Are You?
personality tests by similarminds.com

I quite like the description it gives of me!

Calling All Liberals

Some of you may know that much of my family, including my dad, work for my cousin who is a pretty major political consultant. They are possibly going to be designing billboards to draw attention to the shortcomings of the Bush administration and the problems with gas prices and the oil industry, as well as the connections between the two. So if any of you have a clever slogans pointing out any or all of these issues, we'd love to hear them. Who knows, your phrase might make it to the side of the road in Minnesota and Ohio.

Quite the Pickle I Find Myself In

As many of you know I have been all about reading historical fictions this summer. Along with these readings I have also been working on the reading that I assigned to my class as their summer assignment. It is an informational text, A World Lit Only By Fire by William Manchester. Now I committed a major mistake by assigning it without having read it first and not getting it Board approved. However, it was recommended on a summer reading list on the official AP website, and the previous AP Euro teacher had mentioned hearing of its quality, though she hadn't read it either. I figured it was safe. Well until today it had just provided great detail into all aspects of medieval life, exactly what I had hoped for. Unfortunately today I realized how thoroughly it covered ALL aspects of medieval life. I reached the sex section, and oh what a section it is. For the most part it was still just informative and only slightly questionable, but I felt it was still important in understanding life during this time. It discussed views on pre-marital sex, the prevalence of adultery, courtesans, etc... Then came the part about the sexual depravity of the cardinals and some of the popes. Still I think most of it is not too bad, except this one sentence describing "Roman lore" regarding Cardinal Borgia. It said he decided to move from mother to daughter without skipping a beat... And I mean that literally. I am not going to post it as is written in the book, but it's explicit.

Needless to say, I freaked out! I called my administrator to inform her of the situations, as she may already be fielding calls. Lucky she hasn't yet. We decided though, that rather than send letters now informing the parents and therefore drawing greater attention to the section, we will just wait it out. AHHHHH! Anyhoo, this is the predicament I find myself in. Live and learn I suppose, but man, you can never be too careful.

I Am SO Embarrassed for Him

I don't know if you guys have seen this, but I was watching the Daily Show last night and they had a segment on Vladimir Putin's campaign for reelection. While mingling with the people he felt compelled to lift a boys shirt and kiss the boy's belly. Read this for the details. WHAT?!?! He goes on to defend his actions, but I find his defense just as strange as his actions. Anyway, I would maybe understand if there were a cultural explanation, but there is not... It's just weird!

Another Random Post

I find there is little to say these days, as there is little going on, but a brief update of what I have been up to.

1. Reading my second historical fiction of the summer, The Lady in the
Tower. It's about Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII...
The one who is beheaded. It's gotten pretty good, and I keep picturing Ed
when they describe Henry (FYI, that is a complement by the descriptions in
the book). Hahaha, not as much now though, he's getting a little creepy and
obsessive.
2. I have been enjoying a small group from church with two good friends.
3. Playing a little tennis.
4. Going to start going to the Love, Sex and Lasting Relationships Bible
study, followed by salsa dancing with the girls.
5. Visiting Grandma next week, followed by a week of AP conference and time
with family in Sacramento.
6. Lastly, I am officially moving to Tower in the beginning of August!

So that is my summer in a nutshell. Relaxing, peaceful, at times boring, but much needed for I have a busy year that is fast approaching!

Buffy Returns

So I know you are all caught up in World Cup scores and results, but here is a tennis update... And I not talking about Wimbledon. Last night both my partner and I stunk it up on the court while the other veteran team kicked our butts, 6-1, 6-1. Though they were by far the stronger team, my partner had just come off the court having played two men's doubles matches in a row, and right into our mixed doubles match. Needless to say he was tired. I, on the other hand, should have been fresh and ready to go, unfortunately I was experimenting with shoes, and it proved detrimental to our game in the end. Earlier this week I played in my new Adidas running shoes, but was very cautious when serving to not drag my toe because it would quickly ruin these new shoes. My new technique took a bit of power off the ball, but added a bit more consistency and I played well, so I thought I'd play in them again last night. Unfortunately that strategy was a poor one because my accurate weenie serve kept getting pounded back at us. Not good.

This afternoon my parents played the couple we played last night and beat them. The way I saw it, opportunity for a three way tie. So tonight looked hopeful. PLUS, I went back to my clunky, Old Faithful tennis shoes. Well, we were definitely playing better, but we found ourselves down 1-4 in the first set. The good news was Old Faithfuls were allowing me to pound the ball. (There is something about dragging my toe with my poor formed tennis serve... It's really just my volleyball serve, but it works!) So, we ended up coming back all the way to 4-5, before they beat us that set. Unfortunately the next set was not so pretty. We lost 6-1. I must say though, I played pretty well, so nothing to complain about. My parents are good, they play a lot... They should have won. But it sure would have been great to beat them!

I do plan to continue playing, and possibly even venturing into singles as well.

Note:It would be great if a particular Texan friend of mine would move home and play women's doubles with me... Maybe someday!

Let the Buffy Jokes Begin

So I am playing in my first tennis tournament in nearly a year this weekend. We practiced this morning and had a good time, although we are both pretty inconsistent... Both having moments of greatness, and many others of absolute crap. But what can you expect. Anyway, if anyone feels like watching mediocre tennis on Saturday or Sunday, I will be playing both evenings at 8:15 at Copper River (I think, but I'll check). The Sunday night match is against my parents which could make for some good/annoying family banter... we'll see. I honestly don't really expect anyone to come watch, but the invite is extended.

And yes, just call me Buffy.

Kudos for Me... I went to the Gym!

Now I know many of you exercise regularly as it is part of your weekly routine. I, on the other hand, find making a habit of it incredibly difficult. Despite this challenge, I did make it to the gym today. I will tell you though, that it took everything I had to muster the motivation to drive the block down the street to the gym where I am a member. I suppose for the next day or so, I have no excuse for not getting to the gym, as the place I am staying is so close to the club I belong to. Once I am back in the Ranchos, I think it will be a whole other story.

Back to today's exercising adventure. I bought new shoes a week or so ago, and I have only used them twice to go walk/jogging around my neighborhood at home. Unfortunately my shins reacted almost immediately, discouraging me quite quickly. So today, as I got on the treadmill I was a bit aprehensive as to what I might experience. To my pleasant suprise, my shins were fine... but I am a total wimp and could only go 30 minutes mixing up walking and jogging. It was okay, and I know if I keep going I will build strength and stamina... BUT IT IS SO BORING! (Even with the tv in front of me!) If only there were a way to be tricked into exercising! Roll a ball, and I'll chase it... I don't know... There has to be SOMETHING!

Housesitting

Housesitting is such a strange thing. I mean it makes sense, as there are important daily things that must happen with or without the owners, but it's strange. As a housesitter it seems like a ridiculously easy job to be compensated for, but the value of the small things to the owners are greater than one can understand. Basically my point is, I am living a life of leisure until Thursday morning, have Thursday off, and then back to relaxing for someone else all weekend. Man it's a rough life. My biggest struggle: How do I pass the time between watching movies, taking the dog out and eating? Perhaps I should go to the gym.

Although I make light of it, I truly am happy to help out friends and family.

Pleasantly Bored

Still not much to say... Which I guess is good. Summer vacation is always much needed, but it is easy to feel like I am just wasting time after the first week off. What I keep reminding myself of, is the need for sleep, relaxation and even boredom after nine months of chaos and exhaustion!

With that, I am looking forward to housesitting for the Heinricy's for the next couple of days. Allowing me a change of scenery, plus I will be in Fresno making outings more convenient and affordable with the crazy gas prices! SO if any of you find yourselves bored, call me up!

Not Much to Say

Well it has been nearly a week, and I have little to say but I thought I would post anyway. So Becky is officially gone, and I miss her more already than I anticipated. Been hanging out and getting stuff done, but summer boredom is beginning to set in. Not trying to rub it in, but when there is so much free time, it is hard to stay busy and not get bored.

I did, however, finish my first summer reading, "Birth of Venus," and it was fabulous! I am now reading the summer assignment for my AP Euro class, "A World Lit Only By Fire," and it is a little less readable. Good information, but it is an informational text rather than a novel making it a slower read requiring notes. But there is much to learn.

Anyhoo, that is it for me for now.

Summer Reading: Pt. 1

Let me start by saying, I LOVE SUMMER! Yesterday after running a few errands, I settled in at home and read for the whole day. It was fabulous! Not to mention that the book is great!

My first read is "The Birth of Venus" by Sarah Dunant. It is an historical fiction that takes place during the Renaissance in Florence, Italy. The story is captivating and the main fictional story is surrounded by Renaissance history, which I need for next year. Not to say that I will be teaching from this book, but it gives a little more historical perspective. The story is great though because it is probably very realistic in that time and place, but I feel guilty because it feels like I am reading a soap opera. Full of love triangles, murders and a more cultured than religious society... leading to many problems for everyone! Anyway, I highly recommend it and I am only half way through!

School's Out For Summer!

Today was my first official day of summer. Though I did spend the entire day at school cleaning up my room, I am still very happy to be on break.


This weekend allowed for some time of reflection after hanging out with lots of great colleagues, spending time with students and their families and being given new responsibilities at church. Just a few months ago, I felt that Fresno was not for me, and that I was simply a guest in other people's lives, just along for the ride. Amazingly, once I realized that I didn't want to join the Peace Corps things totally changed. I was fulfilled teaching; loving my students, loving my colleagues, loving the work! I am excited for the break right now, but still completely looking forward to fall.

As for church, it has had its ups and downs lately. However yesterday I was given a little more freedom in creating environments that foster the community that we are trying to build at Community Meal. Up until now my responsibility consisted of establishing what food to bring and delegating who will bring it. It is going to be a lot more than that now... Meaning more work, but a product that I can actually feel good about.

What inspired all of these changes? I don't know, but it is a welcomed new feeling. I feel more content now than I have in a very long time, maybe ever. Fresno is where I want to be. Thanks to all of you that have welcomed me into your world and allowed me make it my own!


Looking forward to a great summer.

Grey's Anatomy

I officially have a new favorite show! I knew after watching the season 2 finale of Grey's Anatomy, that I would probably like it. Now, having watched season 1 in its entirety, in one sitting I might add, it is official. What the heck am I going to do now though as I wait for the release of season 2. AHHHHH!

Oh, and I have already decided that once I get my own place again and season 3 starts up, I will be hosting Grey's Anatomy parties for whoever would like to come! Even if it's a party of one, that would be fine... But hopefully I'll find some other G.A. nerds!

So I was Wrong...

Well I said I would post about it, and I am not too proud to admit defeat. I was mistaken; it is not Parker Posey that plays Ray Finkel in Ace Ventura, but rather, Sean Young. Although lets compare pictures to appreciate why I was confused.


Parker Posey


Sean Young

My Birthday

So it is fast approaching... My birthday! The big 2-6! I have decided to spread the celebration out over a couple of days because, it is my birthday, and because the end of another school year calls for celebration as well. SO here is the tentative plan, for anyone interested.

Friday Night: Kareoke...Same time, same place

Saturday Evening: BBQ at my parents. We'll be eating, drinking, and being merry and would love you to join us.

Let me know if you feel like coming, and I will give you more details.

Who Would be Your Legends?

First of all, I watched Oprah's Legends last night, and I thought it was really fantastic. If you missed it, Oprah hosted a weekend long party honoring all of the still living African American women that paved the way in the arts, literature and politics for African Americans and women in general. It was quite moving. It led me to think; if I had the means to host something like that, and actually had the influence to get anyone I wanted to come, who would my Legends be?

Here is what I can come up with...
(and because I am dreaming, I am going dead and alive)


1. Alice Paul: Her story continues to inspire me to stand up for my political beliefs. She was one of the founders of the National Women's Party that made huge sacrifices to get the 19th Amendment passed. Check out "Iron Jawed Angels" if you are interested... GREAT MOVIE and pretty accurate to history.


2. Audrey Hepburn: Though I love her as an actress and she did inspire me to take that path earlier in my life, more importantly she dedicated her life to UNICEF to help children around the globe. She was very much the Angelina Jolie of her day.

3. My grandma: Despite growing up in the 1920s and 1930s, my grandma was raised with very progressive ideas. Being a woman didn't prevent her from standing up for what she believed in and making her own choices throughout her life. To this day, I can guarantee that if politics is ever mentioned, my grandma would have an opinion to share.



4. My mom and dad: My parents have always supported all of my endeavors, giving me confidence to take on whatever my heart guides me to undertake. This unfaltering support has led me down many paths sometimes successful and sometimes not, but always feeling assured in the attempt.

This is all that come to mind right now. I have a party with my mom, dad and grandma... But maybe I should take note and thank them. Maybe because of the sacrifices of so many in previous generations there seem to be fewer famous "legends" in my life. I will keep thinking of Legends that have shaped the person that I am...

And I would love you hear who your Legends might be!

GO Janusz!

So I am a big nerd, watching all of the American ___________ shows. My latest hope is American Inventor, since I am no longer really following American Idol. I am rewatching last weeks episode with the four finalists right now, and at nine the winner will be announced.

Last week, due to my heartbreak at Chris' elimination from Idol, I was inspired to vote on Inventor, making sure I did my part. I cast all five votes for Janusz (Yanoosh) Liberkowski, inventor of Anecia, the rotating car seat named after his baby girl that was killed in a car accident. We'll see how it all plays out, as all of the inventions are good and important, but Janusz's invention directly saves lives and is so brilliant. I wish they could make these car seats for adults... might have spared me a few broken bones.

JANUSZ!!!!!!!!

And I Thought Hooters was Bad!

So I only began to read the article, but it's pretty frickin' hilarious/offensive!

I embarrassingly admit the headline caught my eye when the daily AOL news popped up after I logged on to AIM. And rather than let it pass, I thought I would share. It was just such a shocker... Pun intended.

Update...

So I have been bad about posting lately... My apologies. Things are starting to settle down, and I am feeling in control of my life again, thank goodness! Even so, I don't really have anything too exciting to share, so instead I will just give a little run down on what's been going on.

My friend Kasey has been in town this last week and will be here for a few more days. The hope is that she will fall in love with Fresno again and move home, but we have tough competition... Austin, TX. We will see what she decides. If she does make the move home, it will be in September, and I will be very happy.

Next, I am getting baptized on Sunday. I am really excited and feel good about the whole thing. I am also relieved that my testimony is already taken care of. I am a little curious as to how it is all going to work, as I am not that familiar with the logistics of baptism. I am sure we will work it all out at some point this week, but until then I will continue to wonder.

Finally, I am so excited about a new aspect of my teaching of AP European history. I am hoping to organize a student trip to Europe. There is actually a trip designed exactly for AP Euro, so all of the sites and experiences completely align with the curriculum. The best part... I would get to go for free! I am planning to arrange it for this time next year, just following the AP test. So we will see how this goes.

Other than that, four weeks until the end of school, BTSA will be done in the beginning of June, and I am still planning to move to Tower in the beginning-ish of August.

America got it Wrong!

I am so bummed about American Idol! My favorite from the beginning has been eliminated. I really have nothing much to say about it, except that I am disappointed that Chris isn't going to be the next American Idol... Guess I should have voted.

I am rooting for Elliot now, but with much less enthusiasm. If I didn't have to watch Taylor flail around the stage he wouldn't be so bad, and Katharine is beautiful with a beautiful voice, but she is kind of boring.

Booo America! We can't choose anything right... idols...presidents...

Ok, Ok... Here's a post!

After receiving many complaints and the threat of being removed from certain Link Lists, here's what's happening in my neck of the woods.

Earlier this week I finished "Grease"... It was exhausting, frustrating, and time consuming, BUT it opened the door for me to direct a show next year. I think I am going to do "Little Shop of Horrors" because of the students talent that I have to work with.



The rest of this week I have been putting most of my energy to the AP Economics test, which is in one week. I have much to review with the students, and it all culminates next Thursday. So I am pretty stressed about this.




Along with this I have also been really overwhelmed with obligations, and have been plagued with the feeling of forgetting something. I always have a stack of paper reminders on my desk, and a calendar full of reminders that I never read. SO I decided to take the plunge... I just bought PDA, and am in techie nerd heaven!

So these are the goings-on in my life... hope this is adequate Jay! :)

If You Can't Laugh at Yourself, Who Can You Laugh At?

As I am never one to turn away some self-deprecating humor, I have added a very apropos clip to my MySpace. For a good laugh, go check it out.

My Cup Runneth Over... No, My Plate is Too Full... You Get the Picture

This year in general has been pretty hectic and stressful for me, but it's all really hitting the fan now! I am trying to take it one day at a time, keeping things in perspective... but all of my looming deadlines are growing too near too soon. (So rather than chipping away at my workload, I am going to blog about it instead). Lets see... Next week, STAR testing that my students are nearly prepared for, but we have had no time for review. And really, when I say prepared I mean, I have taught the standard, this does not however mean that they have learned it. Next week, I am in the school play "Grease." Why I agreed to do this, I have no idea... And now finding time to get to a rehearsal that is extremely poorly executed is seeming a huge waste of time. Two weeks, AP Econ test... Once again students are nearly prepared, but we have hit major senioritous and making class as productive as it needs to be is becoming more difficult than I am prepared to handle. Lets not forget BTSA! Have to finish all of my events in the next two weeks... When this is going to happen I have no idea. But somehow it will, and then I will be done. Oh wait, no. I still have to finish my portfolio for BTSA by June 2nd or else I can never get my cleared credential... And there is much to be done. To top it off, my cats have stomach problems and are throwing up throughout the day and I have to take them to the vet tomorrow. Oh yes, and I am still in the midst of a lawsuit against the insurance company of the girl that caused my car accident a year and a half ago, in order to cover the basic expenses it brought into my life.

With that, I am actually doing alright, and I know that this wouldn't be before me if I couldn't handle it. However I did need a little venting session, and also to forewarn you as to why I may be cross-eyed and delirious the next time I see you. Thanks for the ear.

Happy Easter!

I know it's not the reason for the season, but I thought it was cute!

Moving to Tower...

Just to let you all know, I am now planning on moving down to Tower at some point over the summer. I am going to talk to Harp about her place, when she and Joe'l move, because that apartment is ideal, but I am not limited to that spot. Let me know if you see, hear, or know of any other available places! YAY! I am soooo excited!

Cat Breeds

I am trying to figure out if there is anyway to know what kind of cats I have. Now I am sure they are "muts" or whatever you call cats with mixed backgrounds. Yet, they do have fairly distinctive looks, especially Sophia, and have absolutely polar personalities. Do you guys know of a site that helps recognize cat breeds, even if they aren't pure breeds?

Just a Little Dreaming...

This morning I was watching the Travel Channel (one of my favorites) and they had a special show about this ship called the Residensea. It is a gigantic ship that holds about 110 luxury apartments and just about every other amenity the wealthy could possibly ask for. Now I wouldn't turn down the life of luxury, but it is not something that I long for. I am however jealous of what comes along with living aboard this ship. The Residensea cruises the world, so every morning you wake up at another port of call, visiting the entire world! Being able to travel so freely (or expensively, whatever) would be so amazing!

It is nuts to think of how some people are able to live. Now this raises questions of true necessity or just pure indulgence, but to have the world at your fingertips as these people do, leaves me a bit envious.

Soul 2 Soul Anyone?

Just wanted to see if anyone was interested in going to the Soul 2 Soul concert on August 14th at the Save Mart Center. It is a ways off, but the tickets go on sale this weekend. Let me know, and we can coordinate the ticket purchasing.

Oh, in case you were confused... It is Tim McGraw and Faith Hill.

Miss You Sweet Boy

As I got home from church tonight, my parents seemed angry, or at least not their pleasant usual selves. After asking if they were mad, they said "We have some sad news." I knew immediately. Our 14 year old family dog, Jordan, passed away. He had been going down hill very quickly these last few weeks, and today he appeared to be suffering more than normal. Our prayers were answered, as he was released from his pain. At hearing the news I was saddened but grateful. This fantastic friend would no longer be hurting, but he will certainly be missed.

Jordan joined our family when I was only 11. He was my brother's 9th birthday present, and was named Jordan because Michael Jordan was my brother's hero, and his tongue always hung out. He was the sweetest dog that just wanted to be near us and love us... and he did. In his 14 long years, he survived two major attacks from the dogs next door, where he suffered the loss of his tail and major facial damage. He also out lived our two younger dogs, Shaq and Mugsey. But now the boys are together again. He was a wonderful member of our family and will certainly be missed.

What Makes a Legend?

I am lying in bed watching "Walk the Line" for the second time, and I got to thinking... What makes a Legend? After having watched this movie for the first time I was hooked. I went immediately to iTunes and began downloading Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash songs. Prior to having watched this movie, I had no idea what made Johnny Cash the icon that he was. Now I adore him and his music. I figured that the movie would stimulate his popularity but I had no idea to what degree. In my AP Econ class a few weeks ago the kids were working and asked if I would play some music. So I jokingly suggested my Johnny Cash playlist, because some friends find this music humorous. Instead of the laughs I expected the kids unanimously supported the choice of the Johnny Cash list. They too love him!

Now to my question. Is Johnny Cash a legend because Joaquin Phoenix portrayed him so well, or is his life and sound so unique that it transcends time and can become popular time and again? Would a movie popularize any artist or does it require a special story and talent?

Blogging Nerd

So as Becky would say, I am in Blogger Nerd Heaven. I started a blog for my Economics class for them to ask questions and discuss topics. They are doing so well with it! Now, I did have to erase a few lamo posts, but what can you expect from 17 year old boys (nothing inappropriate just goofy). The students have been talking about it today how they really like it, and now they are thinking about the content without having to do our stupid worksheets. I don't know what it is about the Internet, but it really does make any subject more interesting. They now want to talk about it because it's posted on the World Wide Web for all to see. SO, if you have any interest in seeing what my AP students are up to check out my link to Apache Economics.

Patience and Compassion

Today I have been reflecting on the relationships that I have fostered with my students, particularly my AP seniors. This morning as I arrived in the parking lot two of my seniors (boyfriend and girlfriend) ran over to me and asked where I had been because they came early to give me their formal picture. On the back of the picture they had written "Thanks for being so great to us. We love you. Sorry for being such a bother sometimes. We will miss you."

Reading this little note has really gotten me thinking. Throughout this year I have questioned myself on how I run my AP class. Due to the fact that I have no prior experience with the material I have had to adapt how I typically interact with my students. Rather than being a pool of knowledge that runs class in a fairly regemented way, I have allowed for my AP students to have more freedom in seeking the knowledge and learning the material. Now, I still instruct the class and maintain certain expectations of the class but it is a more relaxed atmosphere.

With that... The girl that brought me the picture has been getting frustrated with her struggles in the class recently, to the point of tears on occassion. On the last test day she came in and lashed out at me with a statement about the difficulty of the test that they were about to take. Instead of responding in anger to the comment, I forced her to see the situation rationally and then calmed her down and supported her through it. That day I went back and forth wondering if I should have responded more severely. I now think that I handled this particular situation in the appropriate manner because she knows her behavior was uncalled for and she also knows that all of my actions in that class are done because I care. I am seeing more and more that students respond best to patience and compassion as opposed to oppressive discipline and teaching strategies.

Emotional Exhaustion

The last two days have ended with me feeling completely wiped out. I couldn't figure out why. I haven't done anything out of the ordinary as far as the lesson execution goes... They have been good lessons but not exhausting as far I as I could tell. Well today concluded and I couldn't figure it out. Couldn't talk, couldn't think... What was going on?

Then I started to talk to a colleague about comments made by some of my World History students today. I had two girls, in isolated situations, tell me that they have been having nightmares about my class. Let me clarify... It's not that being in my class is traumatizing, but rather that the content that we are studying is getting to them so much that they are even dreaming about it. At first I felt guilty that I was causing them emotional distress, but then I realized... They were thinking about the content so much and caring about it to the degree that they were dreaming it... A TEACHER'S dream! So as I was discussing this with the teacher and telling him about the Holocaust activity and video that we watched today, it dawned on me. I, too, am wiped out from the emotional content that I am teaching. Part of me hopes as I gain more experience teaching this material it will become easier, but another part of me hopes I never become desensitized to it. Only time will tell I suppose, but for tonight a trip to Starbucks has prepared me to get working on more lesson planning for the next few days... Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Yikes!

One thing I promised my kids and myself... After the STAR test (the test given at the end of the year to assess student's comprehension of the state standards- for you non-teachers) I am going to design lessons that lead the students to look for positive solutions for the future, and lead them to find ways to contribute to society in a constructive way!

Just Call Me Miss Piggy!

Ahhh man! I am such a pig! But food is sooooo yummy! HAHAHAHA! Sadly, the whole time I was taking the quiz I knew I was going to be a glutton.

Which Deadly Sin Is Yours? Gluttony For you, it's all about the excess. It may be food or something else but the more the better. Find out your Deadly Sin at Quizopolis.com

It's Official!

It's official and I couldn't be happier. I was just informed yesterday that I will be teaching AP European History next year, and for years to come. This class is the ideal... It is the closest I could get to the content and level of depth that I want to teach without actually teaching at the college level. Along with this fantastic news, I am loving teaching again, and am absolutely certain that my decision to stay is the right one. Thanks to all of you for your constant support!

A Sexist Childhood Favorite

Ok, I have been a posting fool the last two days, but I am under the weather... so what else is there to do?

Anyway, I am sitting here watching one of my childhood favorites, "The Swiss Family Robinson." I loved the adventure of it. All of the nature and I think I used to like the sons too. Well it just got to the scene where they help Robert, the "boy" with his head wrapped, and they all start to argue. Amidst the argument the head wrap falls off, revealing short red hair... and it suddenly is so apparent that Robert is actually Roberta. Now it's not the cheesiness of the uncovered short hair making it obvious that he was actually a she that bothers me. It is the immediate "chivalry" displayed by Fritz and Ernst. And the immediate teary helplessness demonstrated by Roberta...oh thank goodness I don't have to put on this charade any longer, now I can cry and be weak like a girl! And they treat her as if she is a weak child, despite the fact that she had just been surviving bravely as a boy. Bleh!

I don't really know what my point is... only I never realized the gender stereotyping that was so blatant when I was little, which suprises me because even as a kid I was pretty sensitive to this, or so I thought.

Man We are a Handsome Group of Friends

Our "special" friend, Woody.
Nick... it's not that bad, but all I had.
And, Tim. Looks like PA is treating him well! Yikes!

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

Sara, as we've never seen her before. Although the lipstick is still going strong! :)
CHHHHHHEEESSSSSEEEE!
The look of sheer joy.
Bitter beer face.

 

Ahh to be a Kid Again!

So I found this posted on my friends MySpace, and I thought it was hilarious after last Saturday's dinner and post-meal conversations. Ed, these might be after your time (wink, wink). Actually, I have to admit, some of them are past my time... not so much a Power Rangers fan. Anyhoo, enjoy and feel free to add to the list of nostalgia!

You know you're a 90's kid if...

• You can sing the rap to "The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air"
• You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey from "Blossom" and that "How Rude!" comes from Stephanie from "Full House"
• You remember when it was actually worth getting up earlyon a Saturday to watch cartoons.
• You got super excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school.
• You remember reading "Goosebumps"
• You know the profound meaning of "Wax on, wax off"
• You remember the craze then the banning of slap bracelets and slam books.
• You still get the urge to say "NOT" after (almost) every sentence...Not...
• You knew that Kimberly, the pink ranger, and Tommy, the green Ranger were meant to be together.
• You remember "I've fallen and I can't get up"
• You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates
• You ever got injured on a Slip 'n' Slide
• You wore socks over leggings scrunched down"
• Miss Mary Mack, Mack, Mack, all dressed in black, black, black, with silver buttons, buttons, buttons, all down her back, back, back" SHE ASKED HER MOTHER MOTHER MOTHER FOR FIFTY CENTS CENTS CENTS TO SEE THE ELEPHANTS ELEPHANTS ELEPHANTS JUMP OVER THE FENCE THE FENCE THE FENCE"he jumped so high high high he touched the sky sky sky and he didnt come back back back til the forth of july ly ly he jumped so low ow ow he stumbed he's toe oe oe and thats the end end end of the elephants show ow ow
• You remember boom boxes vs. cd players
• You knew what it meant to say "Care Bear Stare"
• You remember Alf, the little brown alien from Melmac and Vicki the Robot from "MY Little Wonder"
• You remember New Kids on The Block when they were cool
• You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell"
• You played and or collected "Pogs"
• You used to pretend to be a MIGHTY MORPHIN Power Ranger
• You owned a Skip It
• You had at least one GigaPet or Nano and brought it everywhere
• You watched the original Care Bears, and Ninja Turtles
• Yikes pencils and erasers were IT.
• You remember when the new Beanie Babies were always sold out.
• You remember a time before the WB.
• You've gotten creeped out by "Are You Afraid of the Dark?"
• You thought it would be so cool to be Alex Mack.
• You know the Macarena by heart.. LOL"
• Talk to the hand" ... enough said
• TGIF was the thing to watch!
• You thought Brain woud finally take over the world
• You always said, "Then why don't you marry it!""
• You were the KING of the Tether ball Court"
• Ren and Stimpy Were Awesome
• Collected Polly Pockets!!
• Can't wait to hear about all of the trends and "fads" of this century

"Let (Me) Eat Cake"

Well, after some major opportunities presenting themselves, research and in depth consideration, I have decided to not follow through with applying to the Peace Corps. I have been offered the AP European History class, promised I will never have to teach AP Econ, and I will keep my beloved World History classes. This was a huge offer as European History is my passion. This has been weighing on my heart for a while now because I want to volunteer abroad but I am really finding my niche with teaching. This morning my mom discovered summer opportunities worldwide for volunteering! Eureka! (Yeah I said it.) I can have my cake and eat it too! So, I will still be looking to travel the world, experience new cultures and help out, but not for such an extended period of time.

Hooray for Fresno!

GOP, Hide Your Children

Your Monster Profile

Grim Gaze You Feast On: Fried Twinkies You Lurk Around In: Olive Gardens You Especially Like to Torment: Republicans

What's Your Monster Name?

Am I a Diva? Really?

You Are Miss Piggy

A total princess and diva, you're totally in charge - even if people don't know it. You want to be loved, adored, and worshiped. And you won't settle for anything less. You're going to be a total star, and you won't let any of the "little people" get in your way. Just remember, piggy, never eat more than you can lift!

The Muppet Personality Test