Every night as I fall asleep I think we are one day closer to meeting Baby Boaz, and that makes me happy (even if my day sucked). We are now in the 30th week, which means (unofficially) that we have 10 weeks left. In my world ten weeks flies by! Of course baby makes me aware of his or her presence on a regular basis, mostly in the evening and through the night. He/she is getting stronger because he is now able to wake me up (I have to think of it as training for the future). Every evening as I watch TV I enjoy watching my alien stomach as it rumbles and rolls. Of course I miss sleeping a solid 9 hours every night, but I think that might be a thing of the past for the next year or so. Sometimes I marvel at how in love I can be with someone I have never met, how he/she dictates my life and how I wonderfully excited I am to meet this little one!
My birthday was last week, and it was made very special by people in my life. My husband (who listens well and knows that I cheap-out on myself) bought me a pretty pink I pod nano. It even has my name engraved on it. I really wanted an mp3 player (but probably would have bought myself a cheap one) so that when I am at home I can listen to music when the baby is sleeping, or when we go for a walk. Of course shopping for music is fun too!! My students planned a surprise party (of course the balloons and streamers that they put up the day before gave me a clue something was up). They made yummy cupcakes (with whip cream icing in white and pink, yup they know me well), and together created a lovely gift basket full of stuff I really like. It was a very nice day. I kept thinking to myself “this year will be the most life changing one yet”.
My second quarter report cards are done, after a long weekend of work and a very early Monday morning to finish them up. I might have one more set to do before the baby is here... but that worry is for another day. This month is full of events at school. My class (sans me) is going curling twice, I am hanging out with the grade 7 and 8’s while their teacher takes my class. Jay will do the instruction at the rink. It is I love to read month and I have challenged my students to read at least 30000 pages as a group. The reward gets bigger at 45000 and 60000. This morning as they each came into class they grabbed their books, it was the quietest morning ever! Hopefully the goal will keep them all focused!
My parents have flown off on their February trip. They spend most of the month at the condo down south (my brother, sister and neice will join them for a week as well**), and I am a little jealous! Today at lunch I tried to put my snow pants on before going outside with my kids... yeah I think that I am done with that, I am just a little too round these days. So instead my legs froze in the -30 wind chill! Luckily my jacket still fits me!
**Joel, Ash, and Meeks, if I don't get a call that I need to be in Mesa ASAP for something that would be wonderful, I am not sure I can even fly! No Weddings, births, etc. please!
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Time Flies When The To-Do List is Long!
For some reason you can count on me updating my blog around report card time. I seem to write as a distraction from the pile of work that I really should be doing. Although, at this point I have a couple more comments to write, and a few things to do tomorrow at school, so I am pretty much done. Of course I should also plan for tomorrow and maybe take a nap, I guess all in good time!
I spent a great couple of days in the city this week. I hadn't seen mom and dad in a while so it was nice to spend time with them. We went to visit my Grandpa, who recently was moved into a nursing home. It being Remembrance Day it was nice to visit with him, he was in the Navy in WW II and has some pretty remarkable stories. We moved around his room so he could watch TV and laughed at his sarcastic and witty comments.
After the visit I hit my shopping list. I needed new shirts as I am slowly outgrowing all of my pre-pregnancy shirts. I also needed a ton of stuff for the house, gifts for bridal showers, and some books for school. It was a long day in stores and at the mall but it was nice to scratch so much off the list.
As for Walnut he/she (my feeling is boy) has begun to kick, or punch, or elbow me on occasion. Pretty much every day I feel him move. What a weird and wonderful feeling. It happens the most when I am sitting or lying down, and less when I am up and about. I am very much enjoying pregnancy now. Up until week 16 it was characterized by puking and nausea, now I am enjoying not feeling sick, a popping stomach, and baby movements. If the whole thing was like this you could convince me to have eight kids! I feel great, and have a lot of energy, am sleeping pretty well, and am loving it! Time is flying by and by next week I will be half-way through this pregnancy, time flies! We are looking forward to seeing baby a week from this coming Thursday on the ultra sound.
I guess I should get back to those report cards!
I spent a great couple of days in the city this week. I hadn't seen mom and dad in a while so it was nice to spend time with them. We went to visit my Grandpa, who recently was moved into a nursing home. It being Remembrance Day it was nice to visit with him, he was in the Navy in WW II and has some pretty remarkable stories. We moved around his room so he could watch TV and laughed at his sarcastic and witty comments.
After the visit I hit my shopping list. I needed new shirts as I am slowly outgrowing all of my pre-pregnancy shirts. I also needed a ton of stuff for the house, gifts for bridal showers, and some books for school. It was a long day in stores and at the mall but it was nice to scratch so much off the list.
As for Walnut he/she (my feeling is boy) has begun to kick, or punch, or elbow me on occasion. Pretty much every day I feel him move. What a weird and wonderful feeling. It happens the most when I am sitting or lying down, and less when I am up and about. I am very much enjoying pregnancy now. Up until week 16 it was characterized by puking and nausea, now I am enjoying not feeling sick, a popping stomach, and baby movements. If the whole thing was like this you could convince me to have eight kids! I feel great, and have a lot of energy, am sleeping pretty well, and am loving it! Time is flying by and by next week I will be half-way through this pregnancy, time flies! We are looking forward to seeing baby a week from this coming Thursday on the ultra sound.
I guess I should get back to those report cards!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
I Am an Olympic Junkie!
Yup, for me the Winter Olympic Games are a pretty big deal. I love the Games for many reasons, most importantly the patriotic sprit that envelopes the entire country. These games, being on home soil, make them even more special!
I clearly remember the Lillehammer Olympics, in 1994, I was 12. We were living on Vancouver Island that year, and most of our lambs that spring were named after Canadian Athletes. It was the first Games that I was really interested in. Thus began my love-affair with the Olympics.
We actually got a satellite so that I could watch the Summer Olympics in Beijing in 2008. Really the winter Olympics are much superior in my mind, but I still didn’t want to miss them.
Being a teacher allows me to bring some of my excitement about world events into my job. You can bet that there will be Olympic talk daily in my classroom. In fact we have an Olympic wall already created. We made torches, with tissue paper flames, banners, Olympic rings, and have talked about some of the athletes participating in these Games. Every morning we will be graphing the medal counts. I am very much looking forward to the day we can graph Canada’s first GOLD medal on home soil. Yesterday, instead of wearing red and pink, I wore my Olympic sweater and toque, and yes my red mittens.
Over the next two weeks I will be watching as Canadian athletes take center stage, and celebrating the victories as they come!
GO CANADA GO!
Monday, December 14, 2009
When Time Races!
WOW!! As Jay reminded me this weekend, it has been over a month since my last update. A busy month!
I have taken up curling and for the last four weeks have been curling twice a week. Once in the ladies league, and once in lessons. Both with Jay. On Mondays and Wednesdays I haven't been home before nine, Jay and I usually go out for dinner or bring dinner and eat at the curling rink, going home just doesn't work. Although I am absolutely not good at curling, for the most part I am enjoying it.
We have made some trips to Winnipeg recently to get the Christmas shopping done. In fact, we celebrated Christmas with my immediate family just last weekend as we will be split up this year. Mom made turkey for dinner, we opened presents and played two LOUD games of Cranium (each gender winning one). Of course I always wonder if we disturb the neighbours, we Hayward's aren't known for our quietness!
With the last week of school upon us the practicing seems as though it has overtaken my life as my students prepare for the Christmas concert on Friday night. I always get a little nervous about how my students will do, and so my stress level is a little high, and patience a little low, this time of year is probably not my best.
Of course I keep looking forward to the Christmas concert being over, because that brings us to Christmas break! This year that means a night in MacGregor with Jay's family and then a night in the city before we fly south for 10 days! :) A real, warm, no pressure vacation! Every ounce of my being is craving warmth and time with my husband that is not scheduled and mapped out on a calendar! For ten blissful days we will shop, golf, read,hike, sleep, and relax with no schedule, no meetings, no 10+ hour work days, and no real demands on our time. Maybe that is selfish but my mind, body, soul and relationships need this time! I am very much looking forward to it! Dad will pick us up at the airport on Tuesday afternoon and I hope not to need a winter jacket until mom picks us up on New Years Eve! BRING ON THE WARMTH!!
I have taken up curling and for the last four weeks have been curling twice a week. Once in the ladies league, and once in lessons. Both with Jay. On Mondays and Wednesdays I haven't been home before nine, Jay and I usually go out for dinner or bring dinner and eat at the curling rink, going home just doesn't work. Although I am absolutely not good at curling, for the most part I am enjoying it.
We have made some trips to Winnipeg recently to get the Christmas shopping done. In fact, we celebrated Christmas with my immediate family just last weekend as we will be split up this year. Mom made turkey for dinner, we opened presents and played two LOUD games of Cranium (each gender winning one). Of course I always wonder if we disturb the neighbours, we Hayward's aren't known for our quietness!
With the last week of school upon us the practicing seems as though it has overtaken my life as my students prepare for the Christmas concert on Friday night. I always get a little nervous about how my students will do, and so my stress level is a little high, and patience a little low, this time of year is probably not my best.
Of course I keep looking forward to the Christmas concert being over, because that brings us to Christmas break! This year that means a night in MacGregor with Jay's family and then a night in the city before we fly south for 10 days! :) A real, warm, no pressure vacation! Every ounce of my being is craving warmth and time with my husband that is not scheduled and mapped out on a calendar! For ten blissful days we will shop, golf, read,hike, sleep, and relax with no schedule, no meetings, no 10+ hour work days, and no real demands on our time. Maybe that is selfish but my mind, body, soul and relationships need this time! I am very much looking forward to it! Dad will pick us up at the airport on Tuesday afternoon and I hope not to need a winter jacket until mom picks us up on New Years Eve! BRING ON THE WARMTH!!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Into the Groove, and Loving It!
Routine is getting set, and life is getting into a normal rhythm. In fact with two whole weekends at home it feels like Jay and I actually live in Mennville!
I am loving my job for the most part. I am really enjoying getting to know my kids and they really are great! I have 19 eager beavers! Don't get me wrong, I had great kids these last four years, I am just enjoying the getting to know you part of school. Setting up routine and expectations, learning the students' strengths and likes and dislikes, it really is the good stuff of teaching. Being able to focus strictly on teaching and my students has made this first month at Morweena even more enjoyable, no government paperwork makes teaching much more focused. Of course I am also enjoying dusting off some of my old favourites and re-teaching them. Electricity has reemerged and it looks like my students are enjoying building circuits, lighting up light bulbs and playing with batteries, of course they are learning something too! Poetry has grabbed many of them. Shel Silverstien never gets old, and we have enjoyed many a chuckle as we read his poems. Kids are writing poems like crazy, the boys get to be funny, the girls re-write songs and express their thoughts on everything from hairbrushes to friends. With the lack of planning these old units take it leaves more time for marking and the such. There are still many late nights at work, and work to do in the evenings and on weekends but that is just the life of a teacher. I feel like we have had a really good start to the school year, and I love it!!
In other news Jay has been busy with work, he is coaching highschool soccer, has evening meetings, and such. We joke, but it is true, if we end up having dinner together twice a week we are doing good. Thankfully we have carved out some weekend time together the last couple of weeks. Although the October calendar is filling up so we will see if that continues.
I am loving my job for the most part. I am really enjoying getting to know my kids and they really are great! I have 19 eager beavers! Don't get me wrong, I had great kids these last four years, I am just enjoying the getting to know you part of school. Setting up routine and expectations, learning the students' strengths and likes and dislikes, it really is the good stuff of teaching. Being able to focus strictly on teaching and my students has made this first month at Morweena even more enjoyable, no government paperwork makes teaching much more focused. Of course I am also enjoying dusting off some of my old favourites and re-teaching them. Electricity has reemerged and it looks like my students are enjoying building circuits, lighting up light bulbs and playing with batteries, of course they are learning something too! Poetry has grabbed many of them. Shel Silverstien never gets old, and we have enjoyed many a chuckle as we read his poems. Kids are writing poems like crazy, the boys get to be funny, the girls re-write songs and express their thoughts on everything from hairbrushes to friends. With the lack of planning these old units take it leaves more time for marking and the such. There are still many late nights at work, and work to do in the evenings and on weekends but that is just the life of a teacher. I feel like we have had a really good start to the school year, and I love it!!
In other news Jay has been busy with work, he is coaching highschool soccer, has evening meetings, and such. We joke, but it is true, if we end up having dinner together twice a week we are doing good. Thankfully we have carved out some weekend time together the last couple of weeks. Although the October calendar is filling up so we will see if that continues.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Seeking Routine!
I meant to update sooner but life has been a little crazy! Starting a new job at a new school has taken some late nights and early mornings, by the time I get home from work plugging in my computer is low on my list of things I want to do. Usually fall routine comes quicker to me but Friday was the first day I left work before 5, which wouldn't be so bad if it wasn't only the second time I have left before 6. One night I managed to stay until 7:15. Add the half hour drive and my days have been rather long. Other than the adjusting to a new routine the start of the school year has been very enjoyable. I have 19 grade 5 and 6 students, 5 boys and 14 girls. They are really good kids and I have enjoyed the last two weeks of getting to know them. I really like being part of a bigger staff. All things considered it has been a great beginning. My goal for this week is to get into routine, spend less hours at work in the evening and start feeling like I have a life outside of my classroom.
This weekend was an enjoyable one. Joel and Ashley came up for a movie marathon. We ate and watched movies all day yesterday, and by watched movies that means the boys watched and the girls slept! Ashley had a rough week and needed rest, I have no excuse, but I look forward to starting the week well rested! Joel slept in the tent with the dogs while Ashley took the bed in the guestroom. It was nice to be at home this weekend as we haven't had a weekend at home in weeks.
Jay's schedule is picking up steam. between the two of us we are hardly ever home. It seems that that is pretty normal this time of year though. He has just started coaching the highschool's soccer teams so that will keep him busy.
On to completing work things!
This weekend was an enjoyable one. Joel and Ashley came up for a movie marathon. We ate and watched movies all day yesterday, and by watched movies that means the boys watched and the girls slept! Ashley had a rough week and needed rest, I have no excuse, but I look forward to starting the week well rested! Joel slept in the tent with the dogs while Ashley took the bed in the guestroom. It was nice to be at home this weekend as we haven't had a weekend at home in weeks.
Jay's schedule is picking up steam. between the two of us we are hardly ever home. It seems that that is pretty normal this time of year though. He has just started coaching the highschool's soccer teams so that will keep him busy.
On to completing work things!
Friday, August 28, 2009
A Quick Update!
This is my last Friday with no obligations for 10 long months. I had planned to go into work I today but have decided that I won't and instead will work from home and relax a little before the craziness ensues! As far as school goes things have changed in the last week or so. Originally I was teaching 30 kids in grades 4-6, but that was CRAZY!! So instead I am teaching 17 kids in grades 5 and 6, which seems much more manageable. I love those grades so the whole thing has me very excited. I have spent many hours in my new classroom this week and am feeling close to organized. I will work many more hours next week and feel good about having kids in front of me by the end of the week.
Jay is at work today, the first Friday he has worked since I finished school in June. We have enjoyed many Fridays together this summer and I have been thankful for the extra time we have been able to spend together. This will all end abruptly next week when I go back to work full time, and his fall schedule starts back up. We will keep focused on Christmas time, and the nine days of warmth and shopping we have planned!
Jay is at work today, the first Friday he has worked since I finished school in June. We have enjoyed many Fridays together this summer and I have been thankful for the extra time we have been able to spend together. This will all end abruptly next week when I go back to work full time, and his fall schedule starts back up. We will keep focused on Christmas time, and the nine days of warmth and shopping we have planned!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
No Place Like Home!
I finally arrived home yesterday. I love spending time with my family and I am happy to help out when needed but I understand why dad is going crazy being at home! After some outings, trips to his job site, shopping errands, and doctors appointments there wasn't much else to do. As he continues to feel better and less tired he will get more and more restless, I am sure he will be doing things he shouldn't be doing next week!
Mom and dad's new condo is great and it will really suit them and their lifestyle. Thanks to many helpers it was set up and organized before dad got home from the hospital. seeing as he can't lift things over 5 or 10 pounds he wouldn't have been much help in moving furniture etc.
I am now home and happy to get settled after two weeks of craziness. I am excited to go into work on Monday. The rainy weather we have been having makes me feel like I should be heading back to work and I am excited to go and get inspired! i want to find out what curriculums I am teaching, etc. So I can start planning and dreaming about the next ten months.
Mom and dad's new condo is great and it will really suit them and their lifestyle. Thanks to many helpers it was set up and organized before dad got home from the hospital. seeing as he can't lift things over 5 or 10 pounds he wouldn't have been much help in moving furniture etc.
I am now home and happy to get settled after two weeks of craziness. I am excited to go into work on Monday. The rainy weather we have been having makes me feel like I should be heading back to work and I am excited to go and get inspired! i want to find out what curriculums I am teaching, etc. So I can start planning and dreaming about the next ten months.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Back in the Saddle
Yup, a blog after all this time! More importantly I am motivated enough to write a blog. After months of not feeling like doing anything (work, dishes, house cleaning, talking, facebook, walking... you get the picture), except of course sleeping, I am feeling like myself again and so happy about it! A little change can make a big difference!
This past weekend we had my whole family come to spend the weekend with us. My family are the most important people in my life, we see them often because we go into the city, it was nice to have them out here! I was a little apprehensive about it because my brother and sister-in-law have two big dogs. The dogs were amazing, they enjoyed our yard and were tuckered out after a couple of tosses of the ball, the slept in the shade. Joel and Ashley tented it on our front lawn because the dogs can't come in the house (Jay has wicked bad allergies). Mom and dad brought up their patio set (one of the many great items we get because of the move), so we enjoyed the sunshine out in the yard for most of the weekend. Bocce ball and games of "dice" were our main forms of entertainment. A great way to spend Father's Day weekend!
School/work is almost over and it is coming with a bitter-sweet ending. Of course students are happy summer is here (okay, so are teachers), but the knowledge that there won't be a next year makes this ending not so sweet. Sweet or not there is lots to be done in the next week (our last day is June 30). Report cards, finish up work, final tests, and, of course, picnic are all on my to-do list. It goes without saying that this blog is one way to procrastinate!
July will be here before I know it! With it comes our EMC Confrence, where Jay and I are helping to organize Childcare. After that it will be back to work for me. As teachers we have a lot of packing and such to do before the end of July. Jay and I plan to go camping, Jay hopes to take some Friday's off so we can spend more time relaxing. Joel and Ashley may join us for a trip as well. Jay has asked me to help with Space camp later in July, and I have committed to helping with DVBS out in Grindstone the first week of August. After that it will be time to prep for next year. I am excited to be teaching grade 4-6 at Morweena. I love those grades!
It will be a full summer! I look forward for being home for most of it as last summer was so unsettled (in winnipeg, at camp, on honeymoon, etc.). this summer holds much promise for relaxation and fun!
With that it is back to those pesky report cards!
This past weekend we had my whole family come to spend the weekend with us. My family are the most important people in my life, we see them often because we go into the city, it was nice to have them out here! I was a little apprehensive about it because my brother and sister-in-law have two big dogs. The dogs were amazing, they enjoyed our yard and were tuckered out after a couple of tosses of the ball, the slept in the shade. Joel and Ashley tented it on our front lawn because the dogs can't come in the house (Jay has wicked bad allergies). Mom and dad brought up their patio set (one of the many great items we get because of the move), so we enjoyed the sunshine out in the yard for most of the weekend. Bocce ball and games of "dice" were our main forms of entertainment. A great way to spend Father's Day weekend!
School/work is almost over and it is coming with a bitter-sweet ending. Of course students are happy summer is here (okay, so are teachers), but the knowledge that there won't be a next year makes this ending not so sweet. Sweet or not there is lots to be done in the next week (our last day is June 30). Report cards, finish up work, final tests, and, of course, picnic are all on my to-do list. It goes without saying that this blog is one way to procrastinate!
July will be here before I know it! With it comes our EMC Confrence, where Jay and I are helping to organize Childcare. After that it will be back to work for me. As teachers we have a lot of packing and such to do before the end of July. Jay and I plan to go camping, Jay hopes to take some Friday's off so we can spend more time relaxing. Joel and Ashley may join us for a trip as well. Jay has asked me to help with Space camp later in July, and I have committed to helping with DVBS out in Grindstone the first week of August. After that it will be time to prep for next year. I am excited to be teaching grade 4-6 at Morweena. I love those grades!
It will be a full summer! I look forward for being home for most of it as last summer was so unsettled (in winnipeg, at camp, on honeymoon, etc.). this summer holds much promise for relaxation and fun!
With that it is back to those pesky report cards!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
About Time For An Update
No excuses but i haven't blogged in awhile! So here is an update (finally!)
Last week I enjoyed a wonderful Spring Break, it was busy, but not too busy! I enjoyed a day in the city with Jay (complete with the purchase of pink rubber boots and pink and black soccer cleats), I went cross-sountry skiing at Hecla by myself on Tuesday. I skied over 15km and afterwards my legs felt a little like jello! At about 10km I would have loved to stop, but it was either 10km back or 5 km ahead, I kept going forward! My dad came out for a couple of days to play in a curling bonspiel with Jay, and then Blake (my youngest brother-in-law) came out for a couple of days. Other than loosing (badly) at a game of Risk it was a good week!
Now back at work my students and I are grearing up for our Link-Up day and preparing for our "trip to Mars". After a week of panic we are on track and I am very much looking forward to seeing my students in a new setting!
Soccer season is gearing up so Jay will become super busy with painting lines, coaching and referee clincs, and organizing coaches and schedules. Next week he has a meeting every day of the week except Sunday! A little crazy if you ask me, but this too shall pass! :)
Of course Jay just bought me a new toy so next week, while he is at meetings I can move files from my old computer to my new laptop! I have wanted on for years now and my computer is dieing so it was time for a new one! LOVE IT!
That is life in a nutshell!
Last week I enjoyed a wonderful Spring Break, it was busy, but not too busy! I enjoyed a day in the city with Jay (complete with the purchase of pink rubber boots and pink and black soccer cleats), I went cross-sountry skiing at Hecla by myself on Tuesday. I skied over 15km and afterwards my legs felt a little like jello! At about 10km I would have loved to stop, but it was either 10km back or 5 km ahead, I kept going forward! My dad came out for a couple of days to play in a curling bonspiel with Jay, and then Blake (my youngest brother-in-law) came out for a couple of days. Other than loosing (badly) at a game of Risk it was a good week!
Now back at work my students and I are grearing up for our Link-Up day and preparing for our "trip to Mars". After a week of panic we are on track and I am very much looking forward to seeing my students in a new setting!
Soccer season is gearing up so Jay will become super busy with painting lines, coaching and referee clincs, and organizing coaches and schedules. Next week he has a meeting every day of the week except Sunday! A little crazy if you ask me, but this too shall pass! :)
Of course Jay just bought me a new toy so next week, while he is at meetings I can move files from my old computer to my new laptop! I have wanted on for years now and my computer is dieing so it was time for a new one! LOVE IT!
That is life in a nutshell!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
ANOTHER DAY OFF!
This is getting a little bit silly, I mean it is the end of March and we have another school day closed because of weather! Spring break is three days away and I am thinking it won't be springy, instead it will be snowy! I am sure my students don't mind another day off, but right now I do!
Monday, February 9, 2009
My Life Has Been Overtaken By Aliens!
Okay not really, but close! My students and I have started a new unit on Space. I figured I could teach it the old boring, read this, answer these questions, way, or I could do something neat! I chose to have some fun and we are now embarking on a trip to Mars. Okay, not really, but close!
We are part of the Marsville project. A project sponsored and put on (for free, teachers like that word) by the National Research Council. Throughout the next three months we will be learning about Space, Mars specifically, doing crazy, but interesting experiments, learning about Space Travel, talking about nutrition and fitness (astronauts need to be physically fit), and building life-support systems. Students even blog and make their own mission patches. In the end we will spend a day “on Mars” with the rest of the Manitoba participants. We build massive bubbles (I built one on Friday and it was big, trust me!) and present our projects inside of them (“on Mars”). Already it has been lots of fun, and we have only just begun.
Of course a project like this means a little more prep for me to do, but the smiles and excitement of students is worth the late evenings! In fact I am becoming very interested in Space too. It was really never my thing until now, but wow are there some interesting finds out there in our big, wide universe. God created Earth, which was awe-inspiring. But WOW!, He also created so much else, all of which are also awe-inspiring! So while Aliens have not really overtaken my life the study of Space (which does not include aliens) has me hooked!
We are part of the Marsville project. A project sponsored and put on (for free, teachers like that word) by the National Research Council. Throughout the next three months we will be learning about Space, Mars specifically, doing crazy, but interesting experiments, learning about Space Travel, talking about nutrition and fitness (astronauts need to be physically fit), and building life-support systems. Students even blog and make their own mission patches. In the end we will spend a day “on Mars” with the rest of the Manitoba participants. We build massive bubbles (I built one on Friday and it was big, trust me!) and present our projects inside of them (“on Mars”). Already it has been lots of fun, and we have only just begun.
Of course a project like this means a little more prep for me to do, but the smiles and excitement of students is worth the late evenings! In fact I am becoming very interested in Space too. It was really never my thing until now, but wow are there some interesting finds out there in our big, wide universe. God created Earth, which was awe-inspiring. But WOW!, He also created so much else, all of which are also awe-inspiring! So while Aliens have not really overtaken my life the study of Space (which does not include aliens) has me hooked!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
New Hobby and COLD Days!
Over Christmas I invested my Christmas gift money in a pair of Cross Country Skis. Mom had gotten some for her birthday in November, and after a ski with her (I rented skis) I was hooked! I went out and bought a nice set and have used them a couple of times already. I have made a loop around the school yard; it was tough to plow it out the first time (and then it snowed a ton the next day), I have since made my track again. I have also been to Windsor Park a couple of times with mom. It has been fun, and a great way to get active! I do have a rule though; I won’t go out if the wind chill is below -30!
I guess that brings me to the cold day topic! I am currently on day 2 of no students. The wind chill has just been too much to have kids driving to school. When it hits -45 they get to stay home. From the phone calls I made today I gather they don’t really mind. Yesterday was extremely productive. I am participating in a very cool space program (Marsville) with my students starting this month, and I managed to get it all planned yesterday! What a great gift to have a whole day to work on it. If only I could start already (I am a tad excited about it!)!! Today I set my sights on the pile o’marking! I managed to get some of it done, plus a few random things that have been on my to-do list. These days are really blessings (except of course for the walk to and from school, which is a little cold!). Tomorrow I want students in desks here at school though. In order to start Marsville we need to finish our current unit in Science, plus three days at work without students will be very boring!! We have work to do!
When the cold comes I think about next February! I am already dreaming about warm beaches!!
Those of you going to Mesa, don’t rub it in! You will be warm, the rest of us won’t be, I already know that!
I guess that brings me to the cold day topic! I am currently on day 2 of no students. The wind chill has just been too much to have kids driving to school. When it hits -45 they get to stay home. From the phone calls I made today I gather they don’t really mind. Yesterday was extremely productive. I am participating in a very cool space program (Marsville) with my students starting this month, and I managed to get it all planned yesterday! What a great gift to have a whole day to work on it. If only I could start already (I am a tad excited about it!)!! Today I set my sights on the pile o’marking! I managed to get some of it done, plus a few random things that have been on my to-do list. These days are really blessings (except of course for the walk to and from school, which is a little cold!). Tomorrow I want students in desks here at school though. In order to start Marsville we need to finish our current unit in Science, plus three days at work without students will be very boring!! We have work to do!
When the cold comes I think about next February! I am already dreaming about warm beaches!!
Those of you going to Mesa, don’t rub it in! You will be warm, the rest of us won’t be, I already know that!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Life As a Teacher!
How many times have I heard that as a teacher I have it so easy, I only work 9-3:30, I have Christmas, Spring, and Summer break off, and never have to work weekends?? I have heard it lots, and then I laugh! For example, it is now 5pm and I am sitting at the computer (still at work) and working on planning a novel study unit. Behind me is a pile of science planning I need to do, I have a file of marking thicker then the novel I am reading sitting on my desk in my classroom, I will take that home and work on it tonight. I am not complaining, I enjoy planning (and sometimes even marking), I am just pointing out that I am not at home and it is well after 3:30.
Sure I get those wonderful vacations, I do like having some time off (as most people do). However, last Spring break I spent days writing report cards, over Christmas Break I spend time planning, and marking, even some of Summer break is spent thinking about and planning for the upcoming year. Yes, I do take time to relax on those breaks too, but most people have at least some vacation time in their jobs. Oh, and for the record those Fridays off for kids are not Fridays off for teachers. We are at school working, or at a confrence learning how to be better teachers. On the flip side of the argument that teachers get so much time off is the fact that we can't take time off during any other part of the year. My family (parents, brother, Ashely, and Ashely's parents) are going to Arizona in Feb. Clearly we will not be joing them, I will be working.
As for weekends, yeah right I don't work! Last weekend I was sick with the flu and still marked most of my students biographies. Work has a way of following me home, and that just comes with the territory. Marking, planning, and thinking are weekend projects. Plus I am always thinking about my students, "how can I help so and so with this problem?", "What could I do to help this concept make more sense?", So and so is having trouble with his/her peers, what can I do?"... Work will never end when the students go home, or even when we go home.
In many ways I love my job, I love seeing kids succeed, I love watching their faces light up as they learn something new, I love watching students mature, and become role-modles (that is a bonus of a multi-age class), I love interacting with students... The list of what I enjoy is longer than the list of struggles and trials! What drives me CRAZY is the opinion that teachers have slack jobs, and how our holidays tend to be the envy of all other professions.
I am not complaing about my job, it is great! I knew what I was signing off on when I chose this job, but before you make a comment about how great we have it think about what it might take to have 17 (or more) kids infront of you all day. It takes some thought, planning and preparing... that all takes time.
Okay, rant done! Procrastination over! Back to work :)
Sure I get those wonderful vacations, I do like having some time off (as most people do). However, last Spring break I spent days writing report cards, over Christmas Break I spend time planning, and marking, even some of Summer break is spent thinking about and planning for the upcoming year. Yes, I do take time to relax on those breaks too, but most people have at least some vacation time in their jobs. Oh, and for the record those Fridays off for kids are not Fridays off for teachers. We are at school working, or at a confrence learning how to be better teachers. On the flip side of the argument that teachers get so much time off is the fact that we can't take time off during any other part of the year. My family (parents, brother, Ashely, and Ashely's parents) are going to Arizona in Feb. Clearly we will not be joing them, I will be working.
As for weekends, yeah right I don't work! Last weekend I was sick with the flu and still marked most of my students biographies. Work has a way of following me home, and that just comes with the territory. Marking, planning, and thinking are weekend projects. Plus I am always thinking about my students, "how can I help so and so with this problem?", "What could I do to help this concept make more sense?", So and so is having trouble with his/her peers, what can I do?"... Work will never end when the students go home, or even when we go home.
In many ways I love my job, I love seeing kids succeed, I love watching their faces light up as they learn something new, I love watching students mature, and become role-modles (that is a bonus of a multi-age class), I love interacting with students... The list of what I enjoy is longer than the list of struggles and trials! What drives me CRAZY is the opinion that teachers have slack jobs, and how our holidays tend to be the envy of all other professions.
I am not complaing about my job, it is great! I knew what I was signing off on when I chose this job, but before you make a comment about how great we have it think about what it might take to have 17 (or more) kids infront of you all day. It takes some thought, planning and preparing... that all takes time.
Okay, rant done! Procrastination over! Back to work :)
Friday, October 10, 2008
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving weekend always makes me smile! Okay, partly because it is a long weekend, but also because it is a great time to spend with family, and friends. Plus it reminds me of how lucky and blessed I am!
Today I was at a PD event in the city, which was actually pretty good. It is nice when they inspire you, sometimes it is hit or miss! :)
I came to the city last night with a co-worker/friend. Mom and I then went... SHOPPING!! I actually walked in the door and my dad made a comment about how mom and I always go shopping when I come in! It is a girl thing! I bought teal, brown and beige fabric for a rag quilt. I need to make a new one to go with our living room decor! Then I clothes shopped, and enjoyed evey minute and penny of it!
This weekend will be a busy one, holidays often are! Tonight Jay will come into the city, and I will try to get some errands done. Tomorrow will be more errands, they never really end! Then we get to see my littlest brother (in-law) play hockey. My parents are coming (or at least me mom) and then the Boazs' will come to my parents for dinner. We will head out to MacGregor after that, and spend some time with my in-laws (we don't see them very often). On Monday we will head back home. Lindsey has invited us over, and I look forward to spending time with friends on Monday afternoon/evening. Should be a good, busy weekend!
As I mentioned earlier Thanksgiving gives me a chance to reflect on blessings in my life, here is a short and incomplete list of the great things in my life:
Today I was at a PD event in the city, which was actually pretty good. It is nice when they inspire you, sometimes it is hit or miss! :)
I came to the city last night with a co-worker/friend. Mom and I then went... SHOPPING!! I actually walked in the door and my dad made a comment about how mom and I always go shopping when I come in! It is a girl thing! I bought teal, brown and beige fabric for a rag quilt. I need to make a new one to go with our living room decor! Then I clothes shopped, and enjoyed evey minute and penny of it!
This weekend will be a busy one, holidays often are! Tonight Jay will come into the city, and I will try to get some errands done. Tomorrow will be more errands, they never really end! Then we get to see my littlest brother (in-law) play hockey. My parents are coming (or at least me mom) and then the Boazs' will come to my parents for dinner. We will head out to MacGregor after that, and spend some time with my in-laws (we don't see them very often). On Monday we will head back home. Lindsey has invited us over, and I look forward to spending time with friends on Monday afternoon/evening. Should be a good, busy weekend!
As I mentioned earlier Thanksgiving gives me a chance to reflect on blessings in my life, here is a short and incomplete list of the great things in my life:
- I have a husband who loves me, helpes around the house, and cares about how I am doing/feeling
- I have a great family, who I get to see often.
- I have been blessed with great in-laws
- I have a job, a roof over my head, and good food on my table (when I put effort into making it)
- I live in a country where I can speak freely, and have the freedom to worship when I want, where I want, and whom I want (I am also blessed to be able to live that out in my job).
That last blessing reminds me: VOTE on Tuesday! I have been talking/reading so much on this election in class, and now I can't wait to vote!
I changed my template, any thoughts/feedback?
Thursday, October 2, 2008
An Update!
It's October, and September flew by! The beginning of a new school year tends to do that. There's seems to be so much to get done, and there is never enough time to do it! September brought with it routine and order to my life, and I really enjoy that. It seems I can be much more productive in routine than out of it. My mom often comments that I function in a "feast or famine" way. I am either really busy, with many commitments, and many hours at work (September-June) or I am very lazy (July and August). Even though I do planning and such over the summer I can structure my time in any way and often I am less productive around the house. So when September some I am ready for all the "stuff" that needs my attention.
This year things are a little differnt because life has changed (marriage apparently does that). I have realized that spending time with Jay only happens when both schedules work out. With our jobs we don't work 9-5, it will just never happen. I will have meetings, planning, or marking (LOTS OF MARKING), he coaches highschool volleyball, and has LOTS of meeting. It is not often that we are both home at dinner time! In fact his birthday is coming up and he has volleyball that day, we might be celebrating on a different day! Dinner together is rare, but longed for! We are both doing what we love, so we are learning to make our schedules work.
I haven't posted about school at all! It was a joy to have new students added to my room this year, and sad to see others move on. I guess I should get used to it, but for two years we were the same group. I still have 17 students in Grades 5-8 but the Grade 5's are new! Although I am tried after some days in all reality I have a great bunch of kids, with good hearts and great personalities. The joy of a small school is that I see siblings in action, cousins as best friends, and students who live life, not just school, with one another. It really is a different perspective.
Okay, I really should get to that marking!!
This year things are a little differnt because life has changed (marriage apparently does that). I have realized that spending time with Jay only happens when both schedules work out. With our jobs we don't work 9-5, it will just never happen. I will have meetings, planning, or marking (LOTS OF MARKING), he coaches highschool volleyball, and has LOTS of meeting. It is not often that we are both home at dinner time! In fact his birthday is coming up and he has volleyball that day, we might be celebrating on a different day! Dinner together is rare, but longed for! We are both doing what we love, so we are learning to make our schedules work.
I haven't posted about school at all! It was a joy to have new students added to my room this year, and sad to see others move on. I guess I should get used to it, but for two years we were the same group. I still have 17 students in Grades 5-8 but the Grade 5's are new! Although I am tried after some days in all reality I have a great bunch of kids, with good hearts and great personalities. The joy of a small school is that I see siblings in action, cousins as best friends, and students who live life, not just school, with one another. It really is a different perspective.
Okay, I really should get to that marking!!
Friday, August 29, 2008
I love being married! Although we have only had one “normal” weekend since we have been married it has been a fairly easy adjustment. I guess the real test will come when I am really back to work. The only problem with being married is having to share a bed. Jay and I sleep better when I am at camp! I hog covers, toss and turn, and apparently kick! Ahhh one day we will figure it out! Until then we will just be tired!
Fall is upon us, and with that comes me back at work. I always feel like September is my "New Year". I have been in my classroom all week and have gotten myself almost organized. I look forward to next week when I have students in the desks. Even more exciting will be having new students. Last year I didn’t get a new grade so it was mostly the same students, which was great, but I am happy to have some new faces this year. Change is good.
With September comes herbal tea in the evenings, crisp leaves under my feet on my walk to school, bearable temperatures, and routine. BRING IT ON!! I usually say spring is my favorite season, but really it is autumn, I LOVE IT!
Well back to work…
Fall is upon us, and with that comes me back at work. I always feel like September is my "New Year". I have been in my classroom all week and have gotten myself almost organized. I look forward to next week when I have students in the desks. Even more exciting will be having new students. Last year I didn’t get a new grade so it was mostly the same students, which was great, but I am happy to have some new faces this year. Change is good.
With September comes herbal tea in the evenings, crisp leaves under my feet on my walk to school, bearable temperatures, and routine. BRING IT ON!! I usually say spring is my favorite season, but really it is autumn, I LOVE IT!
Well back to work…
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