And tomorrow I graduate!

Heaven.

A week before I started graduate school I was laying pool side at this hotel, and I thought about everything that was about to change in my life. I had no idea. This has been the most challenging year ever. I questioned myself and my abilities everyday. I was evaluated and criticized. I stressed my mind and my body. I lost touch with people I love and things that I love to do. But, I saw how hard I could push myself; I learned what I was capable of. I made new connections with amazing people who have taught me so much. I learned how to live a little simpler. Most importantly I learned that despite the lack of jobs and the imminent move, I am a teacher.

Isn't it about time.......

I cannot wait until it is cherry tomato season! These were hand picked by one of my very favorite littles:)

......for a little bit of summer?!?! I am not really one to complain about the weather. Really, I'm not. Whining does not change the fact that it is raining......constantly. I try really hard to stay in the moment and appreciate what IS. And right now, what I have is rain. Lots and lots of rain. As we wrap up the school year I actually appreciate the rain because from what I have heard the students start to get a little squirrelly when the weather turns nice. I appreciate the rain for that. I do. But as I finish up my last worksample and look forward to wrapping up one of the most challenging experiences of my life, I can' t help but want a little sun to revel in. I want to lounge at Laurelhurst Park, read bell hooks, and sip on wine. My body craves a day warmed by the sun above and the sand below. My soul needs brilliant blue skies and hot pavement under the tires of my trusty Subaru as I head out on some random day trip adventure fueled by a perfectly picked playlist. I need the summer, and I need it now! Please?:)

One of those nights.

Yes, that's a gummy bear in a glass of wine. Don't worry. The person drinking it didn't even know it was there:)

It has been a very long day.

It was my first day back to student teaching after being sick for two days. It is always hard coming back to the school after a break because I feel like I'm so behind, and I feel like I've missed so much time that I could have been helping my students. Today was good though. I told two of my favorite Vietnamese students that I'm going to be applying for a job in Vietnam. They were so excited! They want to come with me. So cute.

After school I picked up two of my good friend's kids. You would think that I would be tired of kids after a whole day with them, but I love it. Her kids are so sweet, and I like the feeling of being a part of another family's life. It brings me a sense of community. It feels good.

Before I headed home I decided that I needed a bottle of wine, and my neighborhood grocery store just happens to be having a 30% off sale on all wines. So why not, right? Well, my idea became even more brilliant when I realized that the very drinkable wine that I get for $2.99 would be an extra 10% off if I bought a six-pack! Yes. I did it. I couldn't help myself! In my defense I did just break-up with a great guy last night, so I deserve a glass of wine or two. And a mini chocolate ice cream. With these things all injuries can be mended..........well, at least soothed for the time being.

Hmmm...........

Every self-respecting, squirrel-loving teacher should have these paper clips!

......I'm considering making this blog real. I mean obviously it already exists, but I mean to turn it into something for myself. I began this blog as an assignment last summer for one of my Instruction and Technology classes, and as I end my graduate program in education I may actually have some time to share the next steps in what is sure to be an interesting journey. Trying to find a teaching job in this market has to lead to some adventure, right? We shall see, we shall see.

Copyright and Education

The subject of copyright and education seems to be a tricky one. There are fairly strict rules that are to be followed within the classroom when someone's work (music, film, text) is to be used. Do you think that in the context of a classroom and in the pursuit of knowledge and learning that copyright should apply? Please feel free to share any thoughts you have surrounding this topic, thanks!