Well, we just came back from an amazing weekend at the beach. We went with our friends to celebrate Christie and Andrew's birthday. Christie's blog (here) has some amazing pictures from the weekend. I am so thankful that we got to go. We had a blast and it has been way too long since we had been to Oak Island together.
Before we left I had a huge headache and felt really nauseous. I was exhausted from the week and stressed about school things. I felt better later on but Saturday night my throat was on fire and I couldn't talk. I took some cold medicine that made me really drowsy so I don't really remember a lot of Saturday night, but Sunday I was really not feeling good. We drove to Wilmington for lunch and had a picnic of sorts, although it was really cold and windy. But Joel and I got some coffee and I got to relax the whole way home. When we got in the door, I went to lie down and felt extremely sick-headache, stomachache, sore throat, the whole nine yards. Joel was so good and took care of me. At one point, I woke up to him putting socks on my feet because they were cold. I am so thankful for my husband :)
Last week I asked for the day off today to make sure I got everything done before going back to work. And I am so glad I did, but I doubt I'll get anything done today. Tomorrow it's back to the grind!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Friday, February 13, 2009
I love Valentine's Day :)
Homemade cupcakes with homemade buttercream icing:
So this week has been pretty good in the world of teaching.
I am realizing more and more how much I need the Lord to change my heart...there are so many things I need to do better. I want to be more patient and not show favoritism. I also want to be wise in how I discipline, and not discipline in anger, and also show students the consequences of their actions without crushing them. I really need help in this area-sometimes I'm too soft, sometimes too hard, and it's hard to just be fair.
But I do love my class. They are so much fun, even on bad days. And they have such ridiculously funny personalities and quirks...I love getting to know them.
In other news, I am loving the technology we have in our class. I created 2 assessments on the Promethean (interactive whiteboard) for today. My kids were really engaged and we had a ton of fun. Plus, it was a good "check for understanding."
We had our Valentine's Day party today. A parent brought in some snacks, and with all the candy my kids were insane. We played outside for a while after that. I got really cheesy valentines, and I love it. I told my kids all week how much I loved Valentine's Day. So we all got pretty into it.
I love these gifts from kids:
He had gone to the store to pick up milk and bought me these beautiful flowers! He didn't want to ruin the surprise so he didn't answer the phone. I burst into tears...and felt really silly about the whole thing. Joel just laughed at me...which I understand considering I kept saying, "I'm so glad you're alive!"
I absolutely LOVE fresh flowers.
Truly, I am thankful for our nights together. This week, we watched Lord of the Rings and some other favorite TV shows tonight. I haven't brought any work home and we've just enjoyed laughing and relaxing. It's really nice to be able to get through a tough day at work because you are looking forward to eating Chick-fil-a with your best friend. Really, it's the little things.
So this week has been pretty good in the world of teaching.
I am realizing more and more how much I need the Lord to change my heart...there are so many things I need to do better. I want to be more patient and not show favoritism. I also want to be wise in how I discipline, and not discipline in anger, and also show students the consequences of their actions without crushing them. I really need help in this area-sometimes I'm too soft, sometimes too hard, and it's hard to just be fair.
But I do love my class. They are so much fun, even on bad days. And they have such ridiculously funny personalities and quirks...I love getting to know them.
In other news, I am loving the technology we have in our class. I created 2 assessments on the Promethean (interactive whiteboard) for today. My kids were really engaged and we had a ton of fun. Plus, it was a good "check for understanding."
We had our Valentine's Day party today. A parent brought in some snacks, and with all the candy my kids were insane. We played outside for a while after that. I got really cheesy valentines, and I love it. I told my kids all week how much I loved Valentine's Day. So we all got pretty into it.
I love these gifts from kids:
Yesterday, Joel got home late from the gym. I know it's silly, but I just got worked up worrying about him. I tried calling him, but he didn't answer. So my mind started racing with all the possible places he could be lying in the middle of the road. I was 10 minutes from jumping in my car to look for him, when he walked in the door with:
He had gone to the store to pick up milk and bought me these beautiful flowers! He didn't want to ruin the surprise so he didn't answer the phone. I burst into tears...and felt really silly about the whole thing. Joel just laughed at me...which I understand considering I kept saying, "I'm so glad you're alive!"
I absolutely LOVE fresh flowers.
Truly, I am thankful for our nights together. This week, we watched Lord of the Rings and some other favorite TV shows tonight. I haven't brought any work home and we've just enjoyed laughing and relaxing. It's really nice to be able to get through a tough day at work because you are looking forward to eating Chick-fil-a with your best friend. Really, it's the little things.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Friday
Three of my four conferences this week struck fear in me...but now they are over, and only one was mildly frustrating.
I don't even think I want to reflect on this week, but I will, briefly. There were some low and high points. Mostly, I'm trying to connect with some kids that have fallen behind. It's been nice to work on those relationships. I've had to make some tough decisions because I had to consider my entire class' needs. It's hard to have "tough love" and finally say ENOUGH is ENOUGH.
I need to work on leaving school at school and not bringing it home.
Joel and I have spend a lot of good time together this week. We might go see a movie tonight, too :)
I think we are eating healthier. I'm trying to do those things that we should do all the time, anyway. Eat brown carbs not white carbs. Fill 2/3 of the plate with veggies. Eat lean protein. Include good dairy products. My biggest weakness is dessert. I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE chocolate. My brother gave me some organic truffles last week, so I'm indulging in those. They are dark chocolate, so that's better, right?
Well, it's Friday. I'm watching Wife Swap, eating a truffle, and maybe I'll take a nap before I make a HEALTHY dinner.
I don't even think I want to reflect on this week, but I will, briefly. There were some low and high points. Mostly, I'm trying to connect with some kids that have fallen behind. It's been nice to work on those relationships. I've had to make some tough decisions because I had to consider my entire class' needs. It's hard to have "tough love" and finally say ENOUGH is ENOUGH.
I need to work on leaving school at school and not bringing it home.
Joel and I have spend a lot of good time together this week. We might go see a movie tonight, too :)
I think we are eating healthier. I'm trying to do those things that we should do all the time, anyway. Eat brown carbs not white carbs. Fill 2/3 of the plate with veggies. Eat lean protein. Include good dairy products. My biggest weakness is dessert. I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE chocolate. My brother gave me some organic truffles last week, so I'm indulging in those. They are dark chocolate, so that's better, right?
Well, it's Friday. I'm watching Wife Swap, eating a truffle, and maybe I'll take a nap before I make a HEALTHY dinner.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Quick updates...
...It's been a while.
* I finished report cards last week, and that is why I was so swamped. This past weekend I threw a birthday party for Joel, helped my brother move in in Fayetteville, and threw and impromptu Super Bowl party. Hence, the lack of updates.
*Conferences start this week. I always am fearful that parents will find something completely wrong with my classroom. This week, it may happen.
* I really did not enjoy my profession today. I cried at the end of the day and sometimes I wonder why I didn't chose an easier profession, like ER surgeon or SWAT team member. Just kidding. I know I am called to be a teacher, but if tomorrow is anything like today I just don't want to go. I am praying for strength.
* Joel and I are spending more time together. It's really easy to have people over to our house all the time, and I love it, but we need to be intentional about carving out time for ourselves. It's been going really well.
* I am thinking about buying more organic food. I'm trying to lose weight so eating more veggies is a must, and I LOVE going to the farmer's market. I'm thinking the next step is dairy/meat products.
* I really am discontent about my wardrobe. I really have a lack of professional clothing. Joel says so too. Maybe that can change ;)
* I finished report cards last week, and that is why I was so swamped. This past weekend I threw a birthday party for Joel, helped my brother move in in Fayetteville, and threw and impromptu Super Bowl party. Hence, the lack of updates.
*Conferences start this week. I always am fearful that parents will find something completely wrong with my classroom. This week, it may happen.
* I really did not enjoy my profession today. I cried at the end of the day and sometimes I wonder why I didn't chose an easier profession, like ER surgeon or SWAT team member. Just kidding. I know I am called to be a teacher, but if tomorrow is anything like today I just don't want to go. I am praying for strength.
* Joel and I are spending more time together. It's really easy to have people over to our house all the time, and I love it, but we need to be intentional about carving out time for ourselves. It's been going really well.
* I am thinking about buying more organic food. I'm trying to lose weight so eating more veggies is a must, and I LOVE going to the farmer's market. I'm thinking the next step is dairy/meat products.
* I really am discontent about my wardrobe. I really have a lack of professional clothing. Joel says so too. Maybe that can change ;)
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
25 things...
Here are 25 random things about myself....because I'm procrastinating. And I want the friends who read this to do this too, so I can learn about them!
1) I drink 2-3 diet sodas a day. I realize this is not healthy but it's a very hard habit to break (and I'm unwilling to break it!)
2) I never thought I'd be 22 and (happily) married. Commitment in general scares me.
3) I LONG to be a good decorator but I am limited by the feeling that I am throwing away money on frivolous things.
4) I always feel in-between. Not American, not Hispanic. Not ultra-conservative nor uber-liberal.
5) I hate being the center of attention.
6) I love family reality shows: Jon and Kate Plus 8, Wife Swap, Supernanny, 17 and Counting and also trashy shows like Bridezillas and My Big Fat Redneck Wedding.
7) I feel a slight twinge of guilt whenever I write a run-on sentence.
8) Going to the farmer's market makes me feel like a better person.
9) I loved being in school...and I cried at my Meredith graduation. I miss "academic" learning.
10) I feel so sad when I don't have dessert in the house. Like now.
11) I love to cook and bake for friends.
12) When I am extremely sad, I go to Shelly Lake to think and pray.
13) I want to have a big family.
14) I became a Christian when I was 12...under a big tent.
15) I recently went to my parents' house and found all my journals from the time I became a Christian until I got married. I'm so glad I kept them, and I wish I journaled more now.
16) I listen to NPR obsessively. I'm not sure how much I retain because I've been listening to Car Talk since I was a kid, and I still can't change a tire.
17) Before I got married, I was really scared of the dark and would have trouble sleeping. I have slept like a baby the last 6 months.
18) I don't think I am the sort of teacher I went into teaching to become...and I'm scared of what that means for my students.
19) I've always struggled with figuring out what my talents are. And I've always wanted a "visible" talent: singing, sports, art, writing...
20) Leaving Spain was one of the hardest things I've ever done. It took me a long time to get over it, and it still breaks my heart when I think about it.
21) I like reading non-fiction better than fiction. I'm also good at math. Joel is the opposite, and we think this is funny.
22) I'm excited about staying home with my kids.
23) I used to want to live on a commune.
24) I want to learn how to make more things at home (like the Duggars :) )
25) My favorite thing in the world is laughing with my husband.
So if you read this...I want you to do it too!
1) I drink 2-3 diet sodas a day. I realize this is not healthy but it's a very hard habit to break (and I'm unwilling to break it!)
2) I never thought I'd be 22 and (happily) married. Commitment in general scares me.
3) I LONG to be a good decorator but I am limited by the feeling that I am throwing away money on frivolous things.
4) I always feel in-between. Not American, not Hispanic. Not ultra-conservative nor uber-liberal.
5) I hate being the center of attention.
6) I love family reality shows: Jon and Kate Plus 8, Wife Swap, Supernanny, 17 and Counting and also trashy shows like Bridezillas and My Big Fat Redneck Wedding.
7) I feel a slight twinge of guilt whenever I write a run-on sentence.
8) Going to the farmer's market makes me feel like a better person.
9) I loved being in school...and I cried at my Meredith graduation. I miss "academic" learning.
10) I feel so sad when I don't have dessert in the house. Like now.
11) I love to cook and bake for friends.
12) When I am extremely sad, I go to Shelly Lake to think and pray.
13) I want to have a big family.
14) I became a Christian when I was 12...under a big tent.
15) I recently went to my parents' house and found all my journals from the time I became a Christian until I got married. I'm so glad I kept them, and I wish I journaled more now.
16) I listen to NPR obsessively. I'm not sure how much I retain because I've been listening to Car Talk since I was a kid, and I still can't change a tire.
17) Before I got married, I was really scared of the dark and would have trouble sleeping. I have slept like a baby the last 6 months.
18) I don't think I am the sort of teacher I went into teaching to become...and I'm scared of what that means for my students.
19) I've always struggled with figuring out what my talents are. And I've always wanted a "visible" talent: singing, sports, art, writing...
20) Leaving Spain was one of the hardest things I've ever done. It took me a long time to get over it, and it still breaks my heart when I think about it.
21) I like reading non-fiction better than fiction. I'm also good at math. Joel is the opposite, and we think this is funny.
22) I'm excited about staying home with my kids.
23) I used to want to live on a commune.
24) I want to learn how to make more things at home (like the Duggars :) )
25) My favorite thing in the world is laughing with my husband.
So if you read this...I want you to do it too!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Tomorrow marks...
6 months of marriage! This is a big deal, I understand, only to wives, and not to husbands, but still! Halfway through our first year. Considering they always say the first year is the hardest, and we still love each other, I'd say I'm pretty excited ;)
I absolutely love TLC shows, especially Jon and Kate Plus 8 and 17 and Counting.
Today I watched "A Very Duggar Wedding" and it got me thinking about the "in sickness and in health" part of the vows.
It ends up that Joel needs surgery on his knee. It will be a good 3-6 months before he is "back to normal" and that is quite daunting. Today at the gym, his knee gave a little while he was lifting. To compensate, he somehow threw out his back. He said he spent 10 minutes in our driveway trying to stand up! I am really sad for him and how much pain he is in. I know it's frustrating to have been so healthy and active and take care of your body so well and it just give out.
One thing Joel and I knew going into marriage was that I have little patience for sickness, in myself or in him. I am very aware at how selfish this sounds, and I'm just being honest about one of my many flaws. The Lord is teaching me how to be supportive and encouraging right now, because Joel can't do as much as he used to be able to do. We don't go for many walks anymore, and he is trying to help out as much as he can around the house but sometimes he's just in so much pain.
So please pray for his healing and for me to be an encouraging and loving wife.
I absolutely love TLC shows, especially Jon and Kate Plus 8 and 17 and Counting.
Today I watched "A Very Duggar Wedding" and it got me thinking about the "in sickness and in health" part of the vows.
It ends up that Joel needs surgery on his knee. It will be a good 3-6 months before he is "back to normal" and that is quite daunting. Today at the gym, his knee gave a little while he was lifting. To compensate, he somehow threw out his back. He said he spent 10 minutes in our driveway trying to stand up! I am really sad for him and how much pain he is in. I know it's frustrating to have been so healthy and active and take care of your body so well and it just give out.
One thing Joel and I knew going into marriage was that I have little patience for sickness, in myself or in him. I am very aware at how selfish this sounds, and I'm just being honest about one of my many flaws. The Lord is teaching me how to be supportive and encouraging right now, because Joel can't do as much as he used to be able to do. We don't go for many walks anymore, and he is trying to help out as much as he can around the house but sometimes he's just in so much pain.
So please pray for his healing and for me to be an encouraging and loving wife.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Just thought I'd share...
I found this list of qualities a school administrator should have here:
* Smile frequently and genuinely. * Ask how your staff is doing, and listen to the answers you get. * Share information about your personal life, but don't overshare. * Hold meetings only when absolutely necessary. * Create an atmosphere of trust through small gestures, and never make it seem like you're trying to catch your staff doing something wrong. * Compliment your teachers in writing after a classroom walk-through and in public as often as possible. * ALWAYS have your teacher's back when a parent makes a complaint. Reprimand the teacher privately if needed, but create a united front to outsiders. * Take on some of the district's demands yourself, rather than hoisting them all on teachers. *Don't create additional paperwork. *Make "a trip to the principal's office" something to fear for unruly children, and non-threatening for teachers (not the other way around).
And I realized how thankful I am for the administration at Joyner...because those are exactly the qualities they have! I was at Wiley last year, too, and felt very comfortable with the principal, assistant principal, and IRT. Working at the Y has also spoiled me...my bosses, for the most part, have been phenomenal role models that I really enjoyed working for. I am just so thankful to have had these people in my life...and in authority!
* Smile frequently and genuinely. * Ask how your staff is doing, and listen to the answers you get. * Share information about your personal life, but don't overshare. * Hold meetings only when absolutely necessary. * Create an atmosphere of trust through small gestures, and never make it seem like you're trying to catch your staff doing something wrong. * Compliment your teachers in writing after a classroom walk-through and in public as often as possible. * ALWAYS have your teacher's back when a parent makes a complaint. Reprimand the teacher privately if needed, but create a united front to outsiders. * Take on some of the district's demands yourself, rather than hoisting them all on teachers. *Don't create additional paperwork. *Make "a trip to the principal's office" something to fear for unruly children, and non-threatening for teachers (not the other way around).
And I realized how thankful I am for the administration at Joyner...because those are exactly the qualities they have! I was at Wiley last year, too, and felt very comfortable with the principal, assistant principal, and IRT. Working at the Y has also spoiled me...my bosses, for the most part, have been phenomenal role models that I really enjoyed working for. I am just so thankful to have had these people in my life...and in authority!
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