Services are on June 8th. She was a fantastic grandma & is already missed.
I appreciate your prayers and thoughts. I'm doing "okay" but have my moments. It's just hard.
Obituary for Nonni
I love you, Nonni!!
Showing posts with label update. Show all posts
Showing posts with label update. Show all posts
Monday, June 6, 2011
Heaven received an angel on June 1st
June 1st is a day I'll never forget. Nonni died on June 1st just two days out of the hospital. It's been a rough week.
Services are on June 8th. She was a fantastic grandma & is already missed.
I appreciate your prayers and thoughts. I'm doing "okay" but have my moments. It's just hard.
Obituary for Nonni
I love you, Nonni!!
Services are on June 8th. She was a fantastic grandma & is already missed.
I appreciate your prayers and thoughts. I'm doing "okay" but have my moments. It's just hard.
Obituary for Nonni
I love you, Nonni!!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
She's still holding on...barely
If you would have told me that my Nonni would barely be hanging on today, for life, I would not have believed you. Just three weeks ago, I graduated college and she was right there—watching me walk across the stage. While she was not at her best, she was there. One week ago, today, we embarked on this scary and frightening road. My family and I hoped and prayed that she would bounce back…eventually. She always did; what made this time so different?
Four days ago, Nonni’s doctor ordered hospice. My mom and uncle, initially, looked for a facility. But it became clear that her needs were too great to be in a room by herself. She does not have the energy to call a nurse, every bone and muscle in her body hurts, and she was having trouble swallowing and sucking from a straw. Two days ago, my mom and family made the decision to let Nonni go home to her place and bring hospice to her.
Nonni was discharged from the hospital Tuesday. The hospital set up home hospice care. Nonni seems more relaxed at home and will be kept comfortable. There is a nurse and my mom, uncle, and/or I are with her at all times. She is DNR and has multiple medical difficulties. While she is still breathing and holding a pulse, she is starting to slip away slowly.
On Tuesday evening, my mom, the hospice nurse, and I had a discussion about how/what increasing difficulty to live would look like. The nurse said that everyone is different but described some symptoms. The leading thought into this question occurred when I read that Nonni had a majority of the characteristics/symptoms of the phase “near death.” This, initially, scared me. But as Tuesday went on, I figured out something.
Nonni’s body is barely hanging on. Her kidneys are starting to shut down, her digestive system is not digesting much now, and her swallowing/sucking abilities are lessening. She is not eating enough to sustain life. She is just so weak and frail. My mom reminded me that her body has been through so much and she deserves to be without pain. Hospice care will keep her comfortable but will not be using extraordinary measures to keep her alive.
While discharging from the hospital Tuesday, Nonni’s nurse said something that made sense to me. She hugged me goodbye, let me cry on her shoulder, and said “it won’t be long now.” While walking through the doors of the Cardiac ICU, it hit me. We are, essentially, keeping her comfortable, and letting her die, at home, when it’s her time. We would not be back on the Cardiac ICU floor again. Her doctors and nurses wanted her home and comfortable for her last few days.
While there is no specific timeline as to when Nonni may pass, it is evident that it’ll be soon. My days are now filled with keeping an eye on Nonni and talking to her. I continue to look up to her and she is one strong woman.
Please continue to pray that Nonni is comfortable and her pain is manageable. We do have some basic medications and wonderful pain medication for her. My family and I covet your prayers as we face grief and sadness.
Four days ago, Nonni’s doctor ordered hospice. My mom and uncle, initially, looked for a facility. But it became clear that her needs were too great to be in a room by herself. She does not have the energy to call a nurse, every bone and muscle in her body hurts, and she was having trouble swallowing and sucking from a straw. Two days ago, my mom and family made the decision to let Nonni go home to her place and bring hospice to her.
Nonni was discharged from the hospital Tuesday. The hospital set up home hospice care. Nonni seems more relaxed at home and will be kept comfortable. There is a nurse and my mom, uncle, and/or I are with her at all times. She is DNR and has multiple medical difficulties. While she is still breathing and holding a pulse, she is starting to slip away slowly.
On Tuesday evening, my mom, the hospice nurse, and I had a discussion about how/what increasing difficulty to live would look like. The nurse said that everyone is different but described some symptoms. The leading thought into this question occurred when I read that Nonni had a majority of the characteristics/symptoms of the phase “near death.” This, initially, scared me. But as Tuesday went on, I figured out something.
Nonni’s body is barely hanging on. Her kidneys are starting to shut down, her digestive system is not digesting much now, and her swallowing/sucking abilities are lessening. She is not eating enough to sustain life. She is just so weak and frail. My mom reminded me that her body has been through so much and she deserves to be without pain. Hospice care will keep her comfortable but will not be using extraordinary measures to keep her alive.
While discharging from the hospital Tuesday, Nonni’s nurse said something that made sense to me. She hugged me goodbye, let me cry on her shoulder, and said “it won’t be long now.” While walking through the doors of the Cardiac ICU, it hit me. We are, essentially, keeping her comfortable, and letting her die, at home, when it’s her time. We would not be back on the Cardiac ICU floor again. Her doctors and nurses wanted her home and comfortable for her last few days.
While there is no specific timeline as to when Nonni may pass, it is evident that it’ll be soon. My days are now filled with keeping an eye on Nonni and talking to her. I continue to look up to her and she is one strong woman.
Please continue to pray that Nonni is comfortable and her pain is manageable. We do have some basic medications and wonderful pain medication for her. My family and I covet your prayers as we face grief and sadness.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Student Teaching: week 15
This week, I'm doing a high & low of each day. It had been crazy and I have not had that much spare time.
Monday: High-working with a student & seeing her get how to use a 100s chart to add/subtract. Low-Watching a student become so angry, so fast, and him throwing anything he could get his hands on. He was suspended later that day for another issue.
Tuesday: High-No chairs thrown. ;) Just kidding! Being able to take over a lesson without notice & my second graders telling me I did a great job. Low-Sitting through a 3 hour class after a fun yet difficult day. I survived. :)
Wednesday: High-having a student read their first book to me. It was amazing! Low-having to walk a student down to the office since he stole from the teacher.
Thursday: High-Teaching a lesson on Hawaii and having the students respond to it. They were excited so i was excited. Low-Sitting through a meeting, with a parent, who tells me their student is stupid. It took me a lot of effort to bite my tongue.
Friday: High-working 2:1 with students and how to remember the months of the year. It was precious how they could say a event per month. Made me smile. :) Low-Having a student drip the F-bomb more than five times also with tearing up his assignment. He's in a week of RAC (alt school). He has so much anger. It's quite scary. He is the same child from Monday.
What a week! My last week of student teaching is next week & it's bitter sweet!
Monday: High-working with a student & seeing her get how to use a 100s chart to add/subtract. Low-Watching a student become so angry, so fast, and him throwing anything he could get his hands on. He was suspended later that day for another issue.
Tuesday: High-No chairs thrown. ;) Just kidding! Being able to take over a lesson without notice & my second graders telling me I did a great job. Low-Sitting through a 3 hour class after a fun yet difficult day. I survived. :)
Wednesday: High-having a student read their first book to me. It was amazing! Low-having to walk a student down to the office since he stole from the teacher.
Thursday: High-Teaching a lesson on Hawaii and having the students respond to it. They were excited so i was excited. Low-Sitting through a meeting, with a parent, who tells me their student is stupid. It took me a lot of effort to bite my tongue.
Friday: High-working 2:1 with students and how to remember the months of the year. It was precious how they could say a event per month. Made me smile. :) Low-Having a student drip the F-bomb more than five times also with tearing up his assignment. He's in a week of RAC (alt school). He has so much anger. It's quite scary. He is the same child from Monday.
What a week! My last week of student teaching is next week & it's bitter sweet!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Student Teaching: week 14
Monday: Today was a great day. This morning, my second grade students had so much to share about the storms last night. With the hail & tornadoes, we spent a good half hour talking. They were precious. Then one upchucked and thankfully made it to the trashcan. After second grade, I spent a half hour in the library. I used to have a kindergarten student for 30 minutes but she's moving & I'm now shelving. My next few classes, fourth grade, were hyped up. They take the TAKS test on Tuesday & Wednesday. Review went well though. I did find out that I'm headed to the zoo & then a gymnastics center on Wednesday. I'm excited. The day ended up on a sour note with second graders. Attitude just doesn't bode well with them. Hopefully it won't last. Overall, today was a good day.
Tuesday: Today was an okay day. First thing, I taught my second graders in a different room. That threw everyone off. Then no one wanted to work. In my mind, school = work but they didn't think so. That was a long hour & forty-five minutes. I had some down time due to TAKS but I used it to read a report & article. In between, my principal interrupted me and said my world was going to change. A student was acting out & so he came in my room. Desks, chairs, and materials were thrown. He had to be restrained. Eventually, he calmed down. That breaks my heart when he has a rough time. He was sent home after two hours of highs and lows. Resource math went well. Only one student did not want to work. Overall, it went well.
Wednesday: Today was a good yet exhausting day. My second graders went to the zoo & a gymnastics sports center. I'm exhausted. ;) We've been studying the 5 animal groups (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, birds, fish) and it was so cool to see them identify them. Our zoo has new lion cubs and we got to see them play. What a riot. We also saw the typical animals & an ocelot (think miniature bobcat). We ate lunch at the park near the zoo. It was extremely windy, 25 mph NW wind, but fun. After lunch, we loaded up & went to the gymnastics center. I think I liked this part more. The teachers split the students into groups and had centers. I was in charge of the foam pit. There was a rope that hung down to allow the students to fall in the pit. There were also two slides and a board to jump into with. Where it really gets interesting is when I had to fish kids out of the 6 foot foam pit & then get put myself. Fun times! I am surprised, though, that the teachers only took care of the students without parental help. No parents came. Only the aid & I were the "help." No wonder this stresses teachers out. Counting 21 kids multiple times and checking to make sure you have the right kids when ten other schools are there is rough. Our elementary had the gymnastics place to itself. That was nice.
Thursday: Today was good. I taught second grade spelling, reading, and language. I was impressed with their memory of the spelling words. I ended up giving the spelling test today and most did very well. One of my students decided that he would leave marks, like a dog, in the bathroom. It was just gross & disgusting. I made him clean it up and he thought he didn't have to. He got a surprise coming. My fourth graders were wired after TAKS so they were hilarious yet sweet. Introducing coordinates to them though was awesome. They connected it to battleship and chess and they started to get it. My afternoon was pretty good. Other than manners and respect out the window, it was fine.
Friday-It's about darn time. My second graders were actually great. They worked really hard and tried. That is all I could ask for. My morning fourth graders were wild and crazy though. I did find out that next week, I can teach them again and I'm excited. I pretty much have free reign. On Fridays, they go to computer lab and they were so loud today. I was ready to duck out when it was time. I love working with them but it was overwhelming. For my resource math class, the teacher was out today so I got to teach it. I really love the way the math class is set up. My students were horrible to the sub though. When she stepped out, I laid down the law. They, mostly, shaped up. A 4th grade teacher had to leave for an appointment so I subbed in her class. I was showed up by not knowing how to "jerk" and shocked that no one knew who Spice Girls were. After TAKS, the students take it easy. I had no clue who some of the artists were when they asked to see some of the YouTube videos. Talk about education for me. I did, however, get some news after school that shocked & saddened me. Texas' budget crisis just bites.
Hope everyone has a great weekend. I'll try not to fly away with the 40+mph winds here.
Tuesday: Today was an okay day. First thing, I taught my second graders in a different room. That threw everyone off. Then no one wanted to work. In my mind, school = work but they didn't think so. That was a long hour & forty-five minutes. I had some down time due to TAKS but I used it to read a report & article. In between, my principal interrupted me and said my world was going to change. A student was acting out & so he came in my room. Desks, chairs, and materials were thrown. He had to be restrained. Eventually, he calmed down. That breaks my heart when he has a rough time. He was sent home after two hours of highs and lows. Resource math went well. Only one student did not want to work. Overall, it went well.
Wednesday: Today was a good yet exhausting day. My second graders went to the zoo & a gymnastics sports center. I'm exhausted. ;) We've been studying the 5 animal groups (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, birds, fish) and it was so cool to see them identify them. Our zoo has new lion cubs and we got to see them play. What a riot. We also saw the typical animals & an ocelot (think miniature bobcat). We ate lunch at the park near the zoo. It was extremely windy, 25 mph NW wind, but fun. After lunch, we loaded up & went to the gymnastics center. I think I liked this part more. The teachers split the students into groups and had centers. I was in charge of the foam pit. There was a rope that hung down to allow the students to fall in the pit. There were also two slides and a board to jump into with. Where it really gets interesting is when I had to fish kids out of the 6 foot foam pit & then get put myself. Fun times! I am surprised, though, that the teachers only took care of the students without parental help. No parents came. Only the aid & I were the "help." No wonder this stresses teachers out. Counting 21 kids multiple times and checking to make sure you have the right kids when ten other schools are there is rough. Our elementary had the gymnastics place to itself. That was nice.
Thursday: Today was good. I taught second grade spelling, reading, and language. I was impressed with their memory of the spelling words. I ended up giving the spelling test today and most did very well. One of my students decided that he would leave marks, like a dog, in the bathroom. It was just gross & disgusting. I made him clean it up and he thought he didn't have to. He got a surprise coming. My fourth graders were wired after TAKS so they were hilarious yet sweet. Introducing coordinates to them though was awesome. They connected it to battleship and chess and they started to get it. My afternoon was pretty good. Other than manners and respect out the window, it was fine.
Friday-It's about darn time. My second graders were actually great. They worked really hard and tried. That is all I could ask for. My morning fourth graders were wild and crazy though. I did find out that next week, I can teach them again and I'm excited. I pretty much have free reign. On Fridays, they go to computer lab and they were so loud today. I was ready to duck out when it was time. I love working with them but it was overwhelming. For my resource math class, the teacher was out today so I got to teach it. I really love the way the math class is set up. My students were horrible to the sub though. When she stepped out, I laid down the law. They, mostly, shaped up. A 4th grade teacher had to leave for an appointment so I subbed in her class. I was showed up by not knowing how to "jerk" and shocked that no one knew who Spice Girls were. After TAKS, the students take it easy. I had no clue who some of the artists were when they asked to see some of the YouTube videos. Talk about education for me. I did, however, get some news after school that shocked & saddened me. Texas' budget crisis just bites.
Hope everyone has a great weekend. I'll try not to fly away with the 40+mph winds here.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Student Teaching: weeks 12 & 13
The weeks just seem to go faster & faster. To keep this short, if I can, I'll give you highs & lows.
Week 12:
Highs-I was observed on 4/15 & it went really well. I even got to reteach my lesson to the after lunch math class. It was fun.
Lows-I've had to deal with some major attitudes from fourth graders. I suppose this is payback for something.
Fun-I went to a conference with my friend, Sara, & got to hear Kirk Cameron speak. It was awesome.
Week 13:
Highs-I finished my Senior project & turned it in. I made an A, by the way. I still have three weeks of that class left. One of my students, who's new, started talking this week. HUGE DEAL. I had one student respond to a new redirecting technique & not get upset. Oh & no one got removed this week. :)
Lows-I had a chair & desk thrown at me & was growled at. The growling, I can handle, but the chair & desk are not ok.
Fun-I went home this weekend, relaxed, & made an awesome allergy-friendly & crustless cheesecake.
Three weeks left of student teaching!!
Week 12:
Highs-I was observed on 4/15 & it went really well. I even got to reteach my lesson to the after lunch math class. It was fun.
Lows-I've had to deal with some major attitudes from fourth graders. I suppose this is payback for something.
Fun-I went to a conference with my friend, Sara, & got to hear Kirk Cameron speak. It was awesome.
Week 13:
Highs-I finished my Senior project & turned it in. I made an A, by the way. I still have three weeks of that class left. One of my students, who's new, started talking this week. HUGE DEAL. I had one student respond to a new redirecting technique & not get upset. Oh & no one got removed this week. :)
Lows-I had a chair & desk thrown at me & was growled at. The growling, I can handle, but the chair & desk are not ok.
Fun-I went home this weekend, relaxed, & made an awesome allergy-friendly & crustless cheesecake.
Three weeks left of student teaching!!
Friday, April 8, 2011
Student Teaching: week 11
Monday & Tuesday-Today was rough. The fifth graders took the TAKS test on Monday & Tuesday this week. This meant that I taught both Resource English/Reading/spelling & Math. English lasts an hour and 45 minutes. That was long on Monday. I tried to be nice and let students work on the floor but that backfired. So for math, I used desks and a horseshoe table. That went much better. I have noticed who irks who & I try to prevent punches thrown on a daily basis. The fourth graders started learning about 3-D pyramids & prisms and trying to explain bases & faces has been challenging. Tuesday, in respect to resource classes & teaching by myself, went better.
Wednesday-Today was extremely rough. I had a conference scheduled but did not actually take part in it. My lead 4th grade teacher and principal took that battle. My 2nd graders were wild, disrespectful, and rude to each other. I have one child who gets mean and vicious fast and he keeps me on my toes. I did, though, nearly fall over when everyone had their homework. My Kindergartener was in speech today so I spent extra time with my fourth graders. The morning class went very well. 2nd grade resource math was okay today. Following directions went out the window. Afternoon fourth grade, different class, was rough and got rougher. One student pushed and pushed myself & the lead teacher, one student refused to work, and others could not sit still. I was d.o.n.e. after that class. I truly enjoy challenges but this was rough. My students clearly have Spring Fever. It was also ridiculously hot today at a record 98*. It was ridiculous.
Thursday- Oh my dear! The morning started off rough & landed a second grader in the office. Then my Kindergartener was a smilely, bubbly angel. It was a nice relief. The rest of the day went well. I graded no less than 200 papers & it is the end of the 6 weeks Friday. I stayed to tutor my students until 3:45 & then tutored fourth graders through 4:45. It was a long day.
Friday-Today was a hot day & Spring Fever was in full swing. My second grader, who was suspended yesterday, was an angel. I've figured out who has & hasn't taken their medications & it makes a HUGE difference on how their day goes. It's like a 180. I even got a few yes ma'am's. It was so nice. My first round of fourth graders were a huge challenge today. Plus there was a sub who usually subs for PE. It was interesting. Then when that class went out to recess; two boys threw punches on the playground. It was a knock-down drag out, pull boys off each other fight. Oh my word! My afternoon fourth graders were so good. Usually they are a challenge. It was a nice change. I enjoyed having the opportunity to work one on one with students on their corrections.
While it was a crazy week, I still enjoyed it.
Have a great weekend!!
Wednesday-Today was extremely rough. I had a conference scheduled but did not actually take part in it. My lead 4th grade teacher and principal took that battle. My 2nd graders were wild, disrespectful, and rude to each other. I have one child who gets mean and vicious fast and he keeps me on my toes. I did, though, nearly fall over when everyone had their homework. My Kindergartener was in speech today so I spent extra time with my fourth graders. The morning class went very well. 2nd grade resource math was okay today. Following directions went out the window. Afternoon fourth grade, different class, was rough and got rougher. One student pushed and pushed myself & the lead teacher, one student refused to work, and others could not sit still. I was d.o.n.e. after that class. I truly enjoy challenges but this was rough. My students clearly have Spring Fever. It was also ridiculously hot today at a record 98*. It was ridiculous.
Thursday- Oh my dear! The morning started off rough & landed a second grader in the office. Then my Kindergartener was a smilely, bubbly angel. It was a nice relief. The rest of the day went well. I graded no less than 200 papers & it is the end of the 6 weeks Friday. I stayed to tutor my students until 3:45 & then tutored fourth graders through 4:45. It was a long day.
Friday-Today was a hot day & Spring Fever was in full swing. My second grader, who was suspended yesterday, was an angel. I've figured out who has & hasn't taken their medications & it makes a HUGE difference on how their day goes. It's like a 180. I even got a few yes ma'am's. It was so nice. My first round of fourth graders were a huge challenge today. Plus there was a sub who usually subs for PE. It was interesting. Then when that class went out to recess; two boys threw punches on the playground. It was a knock-down drag out, pull boys off each other fight. Oh my word! My afternoon fourth graders were so good. Usually they are a challenge. It was a nice change. I enjoyed having the opportunity to work one on one with students on their corrections.
While it was a crazy week, I still enjoyed it.
Have a great weekend!!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Student Teaching highlights: weeks 9 & 10
Week 9 was a blur. I had various things happening. Sleep was little & things went down hill on Tuesday. On Friday, a student said "you're really calm today" & it was just what I needed. I also got my senior ring on Friday night. It was a really cool ceremony.
Week 10 was pretty cool. I was evaluated on Friday. Teachers are rated on a 1-4 scale. I received three 3s & the rest were 4s. I was evaluated in my special education class and while it started rocky, it went well. Something must have been in the water, though, since a student put soap in his hair. I told him to wash it out and as he came out of the bathroom, he shook his head like a dog. I was less than thrilled and wet. Afternoons usually go down hill but it wasn't too bad. The school had a pep rally to kick off the TAKS month. A local HS drum line & cheerleaders did a skit and an awesome performance. I was impressed. The fifth graders test on Monday & Tuesday. A huge break happened with a K student on Friday as well. She counted to fifty. Yes there was prompting but she did it twice. I was over the moon for her!!
I will teach the resource language arts & resource math classes on Monday & Tuesday. It's pretty cool & exciting.
So in a nut shell, that was the past 2 weeks. I have an e-portfolio due in two weeks so my extra time & nights will go to it for a few days.
Week 10 was pretty cool. I was evaluated on Friday. Teachers are rated on a 1-4 scale. I received three 3s & the rest were 4s. I was evaluated in my special education class and while it started rocky, it went well. Something must have been in the water, though, since a student put soap in his hair. I told him to wash it out and as he came out of the bathroom, he shook his head like a dog. I was less than thrilled and wet. Afternoons usually go down hill but it wasn't too bad. The school had a pep rally to kick off the TAKS month. A local HS drum line & cheerleaders did a skit and an awesome performance. I was impressed. The fifth graders test on Monday & Tuesday. A huge break happened with a K student on Friday as well. She counted to fifty. Yes there was prompting but she did it twice. I was over the moon for her!!
I will teach the resource language arts & resource math classes on Monday & Tuesday. It's pretty cool & exciting.
So in a nut shell, that was the past 2 weeks. I have an e-portfolio due in two weeks so my extra time & nights will go to it for a few days.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
March Madness & not the basketball kind
I would like to apologize for the lack of posting. March has been crappy in several ways and this week was just the icing on top of the cake. Granted there has been some good but I'm tired. I'm ready for March to be over for multiple reasons. If you've emailed or called, please forgive the lack of speediness o the return.
At the first of the month, I had pneumonia & it took me down hard. I missed school.
* Teaching plus taking a senior capstone has been interesting. It's a lot of work & has challenged me. I have an e-portfolio that is due soon & my extra time/energy goes to it.
* I did have an awesome Spring Break with my family. It was nice and relaxing before the storm. I will post picts eventually.
* The storm: I was an accident on Tuesday. He told me "I was trying to go around you." I was in a rental car as mine was in the shop for another transmission leak. It shook me up and now he says it's my fault. He tried to go around me and it's my fault he ran into me? My insurance and his insurance are involved. Apparently, per my insurance, he is playing a game. To say that I'm frustrated is an understatement. Tuesday night and Wednesday were a mess for me. Thursday, I was angry. Friday and on equal me being mad and frustrated but not letting it overtake me. I've left out various details as the storm is less than over and it will be a fight. I've learned several valuable lessons. No one wants an accident to occur and no one knows how the other driver will react. I'm angry, upset, frustrated, and mad but am trying to move on.
* I had a mock interview with a principal on Tuesday afternoon, after the accident, and it went well. Texas is in a budget crisis and it's not when I get a job a job in the fall-it's IF.
It's scary to think that I won't have a job. I am certified for EC-6 & am working on my ESL & SPED certifications. I am scheduled to take my sped test in June 3.
* I got my senior ring last night. I will post pictures this week. It was an amazing ceremony. It was pretty cool, I got all glammed up, and had a blast.
Graduation is a little under 2 months away. College flew by. Time does fly.
Coming up:
* Weekly update
* Ring ceremony pictures
* SB pictures
Hope you are having a great weekend!!
At the first of the month, I had pneumonia & it took me down hard. I missed school.
* Teaching plus taking a senior capstone has been interesting. It's a lot of work & has challenged me. I have an e-portfolio that is due soon & my extra time/energy goes to it.
* I did have an awesome Spring Break with my family. It was nice and relaxing before the storm. I will post picts eventually.
* The storm: I was an accident on Tuesday. He told me "I was trying to go around you." I was in a rental car as mine was in the shop for another transmission leak. It shook me up and now he says it's my fault. He tried to go around me and it's my fault he ran into me? My insurance and his insurance are involved. Apparently, per my insurance, he is playing a game. To say that I'm frustrated is an understatement. Tuesday night and Wednesday were a mess for me. Thursday, I was angry. Friday and on equal me being mad and frustrated but not letting it overtake me. I've left out various details as the storm is less than over and it will be a fight. I've learned several valuable lessons. No one wants an accident to occur and no one knows how the other driver will react. I'm angry, upset, frustrated, and mad but am trying to move on.
* I had a mock interview with a principal on Tuesday afternoon, after the accident, and it went well. Texas is in a budget crisis and it's not when I get a job a job in the fall-it's IF.
It's scary to think that I won't have a job. I am certified for EC-6 & am working on my ESL & SPED certifications. I am scheduled to take my sped test in June 3.
* I got my senior ring last night. I will post pictures this week. It was an amazing ceremony. It was pretty cool, I got all glammed up, and had a blast.
Graduation is a little under 2 months away. College flew by. Time does fly.
Coming up:
* Weekly update
* Ring ceremony pictures
* SB pictures
Hope you are having a great weekend!!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Student Teaching: week 8
The week before Spring Break was an adventure indeed. All of the students had spring fever and their behavior was less, far less, than remotely acceptable. I questioned myself my choice of profession twice this week. Some days I wanted to laugh it off while others left me frustrated. I am please that my 2nd grade student that gets removed weekly had no issues. Huge deal! Another student, sadly, took his place.
Monday: Today was the day that I thought would be the worst of the week. My 2nd graders were pretty good while my Kindergarteners were not. It was a constant battle of wills and they were not going to win. My fourth graders were surprisingly good today as well. After school tutoring was quite fun as the fourth graders really got into the story comprehension that was done.
Tuesday: Today was a really good day. I worked one on one with several fourth graders to review/correct assignments that they had done. It was awesome to see that lightbulb go off. In math, they learned a cool way to do volume as well. Even I learned something new. After school, I had my class and was shocked at how hard my midterm was. I mean, the "review" we were given and the material on the exam were completely different. It was one of the hardest tests I've had to take.
Wednesday: I can honestly say that I would not want to repeat today ever again. My sped teacher attended an ARD so I controlled and taught the class first thing. Then one student decided he dis not like that I took up his assignment with his drawing on the back. This student has been told not to draw on the back of assignments since he rushes to complete the work to draw. He said I had to give it back & I told him no. I asked all the students to get the next assignment out of their binders and he refused. He repeatedly said that he wanted his drawing back. I asked for his red folder and did not get it. The sped aid had enough before I did. She told him to get out his assignment, hand me his red folder, and to stop arguing. He refused so she said to go to the Principal's with her or she would go get him. The Principal was called down to our room. While waiting, he eventually threw his folder at me and, at first, refused to go with the Principal. In the end, he got ISS for the rest of the day. After that fiasco, I was to read a benchmark TAKS test to three students. It was not the real test. It's to see where students are. That was a painful reality as it broke my heart to watch students struggle. After students were done, they all had time to go back and prove their answer. During that time, myself and another teacher asked students to explain why they put what they did. It was an interesting hour as a student decided he was my bodyguard. The student was a third of my size. We had a faculty meeting after school and as always, it was entertaining.
Thursday: What a day. My Kindergarteners behavior was like Monday, my Fourth graders behavior was atrocious and talk about attitude, and my second graders were pretty good. Tutoring was after school with my second graders and went well. I also got evaluated by my teacher and did quite well.
Friday: Everyone did quite well today. My second graders were well behaved, my fourth graders were better today, and the students got out at one. The teachers left about two.
Next week is spring break. Woo Hoo!! It was a week indeed.
Monday: Today was the day that I thought would be the worst of the week. My 2nd graders were pretty good while my Kindergarteners were not. It was a constant battle of wills and they were not going to win. My fourth graders were surprisingly good today as well. After school tutoring was quite fun as the fourth graders really got into the story comprehension that was done.
Tuesday: Today was a really good day. I worked one on one with several fourth graders to review/correct assignments that they had done. It was awesome to see that lightbulb go off. In math, they learned a cool way to do volume as well. Even I learned something new. After school, I had my class and was shocked at how hard my midterm was. I mean, the "review" we were given and the material on the exam were completely different. It was one of the hardest tests I've had to take.
Wednesday: I can honestly say that I would not want to repeat today ever again. My sped teacher attended an ARD so I controlled and taught the class first thing. Then one student decided he dis not like that I took up his assignment with his drawing on the back. This student has been told not to draw on the back of assignments since he rushes to complete the work to draw. He said I had to give it back & I told him no. I asked all the students to get the next assignment out of their binders and he refused. He repeatedly said that he wanted his drawing back. I asked for his red folder and did not get it. The sped aid had enough before I did. She told him to get out his assignment, hand me his red folder, and to stop arguing. He refused so she said to go to the Principal's with her or she would go get him. The Principal was called down to our room. While waiting, he eventually threw his folder at me and, at first, refused to go with the Principal. In the end, he got ISS for the rest of the day. After that fiasco, I was to read a benchmark TAKS test to three students. It was not the real test. It's to see where students are. That was a painful reality as it broke my heart to watch students struggle. After students were done, they all had time to go back and prove their answer. During that time, myself and another teacher asked students to explain why they put what they did. It was an interesting hour as a student decided he was my bodyguard. The student was a third of my size. We had a faculty meeting after school and as always, it was entertaining.
Thursday: What a day. My Kindergarteners behavior was like Monday, my Fourth graders behavior was atrocious and talk about attitude, and my second graders were pretty good. Tutoring was after school with my second graders and went well. I also got evaluated by my teacher and did quite well.
Friday: Everyone did quite well today. My second graders were well behaved, my fourth graders were better today, and the students got out at one. The teachers left about two.
Next week is spring break. Woo Hoo!! It was a week indeed.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Student Teaching: week 7
Monday: My mom drove me back to Collegetown today. Still did not feel so great but I needed to make an effort. So I went back.
Tuesday: Talk about exhausting. Today was TAKS writing for the fourth graders. I was not able to go into my SPED classroom so I spent the day helping my K, 1, 2 students. Rooms were rearranged due to TAKS and it was a low day. That was nice. My students were pretty well behaved today. I got to teach resource reading and that was a lot of fun. I had my class after school and I was done after it.
Wednesday: Today was rough all around. I have one student who is off his meds and his parents are using his SSI money to pay their bills and not his medication. It's sad as he is a completely different person off than on them. During math, he had a total meltdown when I said I was going to sign his folder for not following directions. I got to teach resource math today as my teacher had an ARD. It was an experience. My fourth graders were totally off today as well. Since it was the day after TAKS, the teachers planned a relaxed day. That backfired as their schedule was thrown off. Live and learn. During my tome in the second grade classroom, work was a complete struggle. First the words are not writing themselves and one can't see the board. After school tutoring went well.
Thursday: Today was the calm before Friday's storm. I wish I was kidding but I'm not. I was evaluated in second grade science today and it went well. My students were horrific but my advisor didn't seem to mind. I did very well on my evaluation. I was pleased. After school tutoring, with four second graders, is always fun. Their personalities are blossoming and they make me laugh. On an unrelated note, I experienced transmission issues after school. Turns out that my gasket was previously placed wrong and I had no transmission fluid. Let me tell you that it's scary stopping on a busy street. It was an experience indeed.
Friday: This morning threw me in a loop. I started the weekly spelling and daily oral language tests with my students. One student started loosing control of himself. The office was called twice and no one came. His aide gave him several chances and it got worse. So she picked him up and took him to the office. My teacher dashed out of the room as he tried to head butt the aide and kicked her multiple times. This shook everyone. I took over the class as he was dealt with. While I took the other students back to their classroom, I saw the student being physically held in a room with my principal. It was heartbreaking. After talking to his homeroom teacher, it was found that he forgot his homework and that sparked this. Usually, I work with a kindergartener from 10-10:30 but chose to stay with my sped students during that time. I needed to breathe and talk to my teacher. I went to see my fourth graders and had a great time with them. They were reading "Because of Winn-Dixie" out loud and the book is a favorite of mine. I also did a lot of grading for teachers today. After lunch, I worked with my resource math students. That is always a joy. The rest of the afternoon went well. While working with my last class, I saw my student be removed for the second time today. Seeing students struggle with various subjects is heartbreaking. No one can prepare you for it. At the end of the day, I was able to talk with my teacher for 30+ minutes and felt much better. After school, I picked up my truck and had a quiet evening.
I have a comprehensive midterm on Tuesday afternoon and we were told to study everything. Studying are my weekend plans.
Tuesday: Talk about exhausting. Today was TAKS writing for the fourth graders. I was not able to go into my SPED classroom so I spent the day helping my K, 1, 2 students. Rooms were rearranged due to TAKS and it was a low day. That was nice. My students were pretty well behaved today. I got to teach resource reading and that was a lot of fun. I had my class after school and I was done after it.
Wednesday: Today was rough all around. I have one student who is off his meds and his parents are using his SSI money to pay their bills and not his medication. It's sad as he is a completely different person off than on them. During math, he had a total meltdown when I said I was going to sign his folder for not following directions. I got to teach resource math today as my teacher had an ARD. It was an experience. My fourth graders were totally off today as well. Since it was the day after TAKS, the teachers planned a relaxed day. That backfired as their schedule was thrown off. Live and learn. During my tome in the second grade classroom, work was a complete struggle. First the words are not writing themselves and one can't see the board. After school tutoring went well.
Thursday: Today was the calm before Friday's storm. I wish I was kidding but I'm not. I was evaluated in second grade science today and it went well. My students were horrific but my advisor didn't seem to mind. I did very well on my evaluation. I was pleased. After school tutoring, with four second graders, is always fun. Their personalities are blossoming and they make me laugh. On an unrelated note, I experienced transmission issues after school. Turns out that my gasket was previously placed wrong and I had no transmission fluid. Let me tell you that it's scary stopping on a busy street. It was an experience indeed.
Friday: This morning threw me in a loop. I started the weekly spelling and daily oral language tests with my students. One student started loosing control of himself. The office was called twice and no one came. His aide gave him several chances and it got worse. So she picked him up and took him to the office. My teacher dashed out of the room as he tried to head butt the aide and kicked her multiple times. This shook everyone. I took over the class as he was dealt with. While I took the other students back to their classroom, I saw the student being physically held in a room with my principal. It was heartbreaking. After talking to his homeroom teacher, it was found that he forgot his homework and that sparked this. Usually, I work with a kindergartener from 10-10:30 but chose to stay with my sped students during that time. I needed to breathe and talk to my teacher. I went to see my fourth graders and had a great time with them. They were reading "Because of Winn-Dixie" out loud and the book is a favorite of mine. I also did a lot of grading for teachers today. After lunch, I worked with my resource math students. That is always a joy. The rest of the afternoon went well. While working with my last class, I saw my student be removed for the second time today. Seeing students struggle with various subjects is heartbreaking. No one can prepare you for it. At the end of the day, I was able to talk with my teacher for 30+ minutes and felt much better. After school, I picked up my truck and had a quiet evening.
I have a comprehensive midterm on Tuesday afternoon and we were told to study everything. Studying are my weekend plans.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Student Teaching: week 6
Monday: No school. I did, however, spend my day taking my practice special education exam. I passed that and so now, I will take the real one soon.
Tuesday: Today was a terrific day. The students' behavior was far from perfect though. I did, however, experience a student who's parents have not refill his medication. What an experience. This student knows he is out of control with medication and he was a wreck. His parents know he needs the medication and have not refilled it. Due to his area of need, he needs it to function properly. The afternoon went down hill for everyone. I also experienced a student refusing to do his work & make every excuse in the book. That was frustrating. The rest of the day went well. In the afternoon, my students' behavior tanks. Without fail, it gets more and more difficult from 1-3. Everyday. We can have a fantastic morning then boom.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: I was out sick with pneumonia and a sinus infection. Two words fit that-not fun. I missed my students and teaching. My mom said it perfectly though, referring to me being sick. "They don't want you there when you're sick. It's better for you and the kids." I tried to go back Friday but made the decision not to as I still have fever.
Tuesday: Today was a terrific day. The students' behavior was far from perfect though. I did, however, experience a student who's parents have not refill his medication. What an experience. This student knows he is out of control with medication and he was a wreck. His parents know he needs the medication and have not refilled it. Due to his area of need, he needs it to function properly. The afternoon went down hill for everyone. I also experienced a student refusing to do his work & make every excuse in the book. That was frustrating. The rest of the day went well. In the afternoon, my students' behavior tanks. Without fail, it gets more and more difficult from 1-3. Everyday. We can have a fantastic morning then boom.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: I was out sick with pneumonia and a sinus infection. Two words fit that-not fun. I missed my students and teaching. My mom said it perfectly though, referring to me being sick. "They don't want you there when you're sick. It's better for you and the kids." I tried to go back Friday but made the decision not to as I still have fever.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Student Teaching: week 5
Monday was a great day. It was one of the hottest days of the week too. In 2nd grade, we started hinting that the end of the 6 weeks was on Friday. For a moment, the kids thought they had no more school after Friday. It was too funny after they learned "the truth." I got to work one on one with a struggling fourth grader & really enjoyed it. I finally feel "apart" of the school instead of a guest. It's nice.
Tuesday: Today was a long day. It was HOT & the A/C has not been turned on yet. Nearing 80+* and 25 bodies in one class is difficult. In social studies (2nd), we talked about good citizens & characteristics. Let me just say that my students thought rappers were good examples. It was interesting. There is one student who thinks that he is a bonafide rapper & has got the moves to show it. It's quite comical. The fourth graders had benchmarking today so I spent time working with fifth graders & fluency (accuracy, rate, and expression). They were so quite.
Wednesday: Not much happened today. It was hot, the kids were pretty good, & the fourth graders were wild. I have a feeling that benchmark made them antsy the day after. Just smile and nod. I did have a kindergartener get mad at me and intentionally pull my hair. Ouch! Getting her to let go was a chore. I worked with a fifth grader, in tutoring, and have to say that comprehension is tough but she's a hard worker.
Thursday: Today was a long, exhausting, and difficult day. No one listened, I was nearly punched, one child smacked another child with a stick, a new unit was stared, and there were many absent. I got to tutor, again, and am working with second graders and sounds. An example would be " e a say ea like in meat." It was fun. Seeing that lightbulb click is cool.
Friday: Today was a great day. No one got sent to the office, I had the student who growls at me greet me nicely and smile at me, and received many hugs and grins. One of the most rewarding times, today, was when I got to read out loud to my students. I liked rewarding them for their hard work. I had the KG student be in a great mood today, and got to work with my 4th graders for 3 hours. I really could see myself teaching fourth as well. While students were making up work or correcting papers, I got to br "in charge" while the teacher worked with students. It was so cool. :)
I also talked to my principal today and found out I get to stay in SPED for the rest of my Student Teaching. While I won't be in one classroom, I will get to see my same students and work with an experienced, SPED teacher. I'm excited. I also got evaluated by my SPED teacher & did well. Today was a great day!!
Tuesday: Today was a long day. It was HOT & the A/C has not been turned on yet. Nearing 80+* and 25 bodies in one class is difficult. In social studies (2nd), we talked about good citizens & characteristics. Let me just say that my students thought rappers were good examples. It was interesting. There is one student who thinks that he is a bonafide rapper & has got the moves to show it. It's quite comical. The fourth graders had benchmarking today so I spent time working with fifth graders & fluency (accuracy, rate, and expression). They were so quite.
Wednesday: Not much happened today. It was hot, the kids were pretty good, & the fourth graders were wild. I have a feeling that benchmark made them antsy the day after. Just smile and nod. I did have a kindergartener get mad at me and intentionally pull my hair. Ouch! Getting her to let go was a chore. I worked with a fifth grader, in tutoring, and have to say that comprehension is tough but she's a hard worker.
Thursday: Today was a long, exhausting, and difficult day. No one listened, I was nearly punched, one child smacked another child with a stick, a new unit was stared, and there were many absent. I got to tutor, again, and am working with second graders and sounds. An example would be " e a say ea like in meat." It was fun. Seeing that lightbulb click is cool.
Friday: Today was a great day. No one got sent to the office, I had the student who growls at me greet me nicely and smile at me, and received many hugs and grins. One of the most rewarding times, today, was when I got to read out loud to my students. I liked rewarding them for their hard work. I had the KG student be in a great mood today, and got to work with my 4th graders for 3 hours. I really could see myself teaching fourth as well. While students were making up work or correcting papers, I got to br "in charge" while the teacher worked with students. It was so cool. :)
I also talked to my principal today and found out I get to stay in SPED for the rest of my Student Teaching. While I won't be in one classroom, I will get to see my same students and work with an experienced, SPED teacher. I'm excited. I also got evaluated by my SPED teacher & did well. Today was a great day!!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Student Teaching: week 3
Monday was my only day in school. It was a really good day. I got to see a second grader excel in math & be told that he was ready for multiplication. I was shocked they do that in second grade. He's a smart cookie. Nothing bad really happened. It was a pretty good day. I get to sub next Monday (today) for a fourth grade teacher at after school tutoring. It shall be fun.
Tuesday-Friday: no school. There were record lows, in the single digits, and highs in the teens. It was cold. We had lots of snow and ice. The ice was a major issue. It was like a winter break.
Getting back into the swing of things will be interesting this week. We got snow tonight & are supposed to get more on Wednesday.
Tuesday-Friday: no school. There were record lows, in the single digits, and highs in the teens. It was cold. We had lots of snow and ice. The ice was a major issue. It was like a winter break.
Getting back into the swing of things will be interesting this week. We got snow tonight & are supposed to get more on Wednesday.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Snow, ice, and a delight
I have been home for three days.
My walkway, to my apartment, is a thick layer of ice.
I am not going anywhere anytime soon.
No real pictures as I am iced in.
School, where I ST at, is cancelled tomorrow.
Can you say fourth snow day in a row?
I have lost power on and off today.
It is cold outside.
I am trying a few recipes and limiting my trash.
Why you ask?
My dumpster is all the way at the other end of the complex.
The walk is covered in ice.
West Texas has been in the single digits.
Plus the wind chills are in the negatives.
It is cold. Did I mention that?
I have watched movies and shows.
Caught up on my emails.
Did a little homework.
Now, I get to plan another day indoors.
Did you get hit with the winter mess this week?
My walkway, to my apartment, is a thick layer of ice.
I am not going anywhere anytime soon.
No real pictures as I am iced in.
School, where I ST at, is cancelled tomorrow.
Can you say fourth snow day in a row?
I have lost power on and off today.
It is cold outside.
I am trying a few recipes and limiting my trash.
Why you ask?
My dumpster is all the way at the other end of the complex.
The walk is covered in ice.
West Texas has been in the single digits.
Plus the wind chills are in the negatives.
It is cold. Did I mention that?
I have watched movies and shows.
Caught up on my emails.
Did a little homework.
Now, I get to plan another day indoors.
Did you get hit with the winter mess this week?
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Student Teaching: week 2
I have to say that I thoroughly loved getting up for school, packing my lunch, & going to school. I have already bonded with students (mine and others). Something new happens daily.
Monday went well. A new schedule all over again. My teacher didn't have my whole schedule for me so I helped her as needed.
Tuesday was an experience in itself. I saw a child get physically removed from my room & heard heartbreaking stories. The students have rough home lives & difficult parents/guardians. I got to teach an impromptu reading lesson as the behavior issue was being dealt with. It was eye opening. I have a class from 4-6:45 & it is LONG & assigns multiple assignments each week. I also have my weekly 9pm Brand meeting each week. Overall, it's the longest day of the week.
Wednesday was an off day. We were supposed to get a delay, due to weather, but the weather never came. Everyone was off. Today, my teachers had various ARDs (Admission, Review, Dismissal) and IEP (Individual Education Plan) reviews so I taught a math class & reading class. It was so much fun. The child that has the severe behavior issues has an aid & was very encouraging. I like her already. :) I also have students with difficulties in behavior as well. I had to take something away from someone & got growled at. Looking back, it's funny. Not so much then. Having the opportunity to work with a SPED reading as well as a math teacher is so cool. I also ordered my senior ring today.
Thursday was great. I can say everyone was on their games. Nothing bad happened and the kids were responsive.
Friday-it was a Friday indeed. I had a student totally choose to spell every single spelling word wrong, one make a 100 on his, and several care less about grades. An experience in itself. I miss being in just one grade but totally love my experience thus far. One of my favorite parts of the day was taking a first grade student to the office to sign the brag book. Every morning, whomever signed the brag book is announced on the morning announcements. He made a 100 on his math and spelling tests. I was proud and he grinned ear to ear. I also found out my schedule will change a little next week.
8-9:45-Reading with 1st, 2nd, & 4th grade
10-10:30-Kindergarten-Inclusion
10:35-11:15-Fourth grade*
11:15-12-End of Reading (4/5th), Lunch, & planning
12-12:30-Reading with 1st graders-Inclusion
12:40-1:15-2nd Math
1:15-1:40-4th grade Math-Inclusion
1:45-2:45-2nd Grade S.S. & Science-Inclusion
2:50 on-with SPED teacher
3:05-3:45-tutoring (all level)
* Now working in an inclusion math class (sped students in a regular classroom). This is the change.
Next week, I have my first observation by my supervisor on Thursday. It will be in my 2nd grade class for Social Studies & Science. I'm not nervous though. We also are going to hopefully experience some of the coldest weather soon and maybe snow/ice. All I have to say is I'm hoping for a delay. ;) We got left out last week and am hoping not to repeat the same upset this week.
This morning, I had my fingerprints for my certification done. What an experience.
Monday went well. A new schedule all over again. My teacher didn't have my whole schedule for me so I helped her as needed.
Tuesday was an experience in itself. I saw a child get physically removed from my room & heard heartbreaking stories. The students have rough home lives & difficult parents/guardians. I got to teach an impromptu reading lesson as the behavior issue was being dealt with. It was eye opening. I have a class from 4-6:45 & it is LONG & assigns multiple assignments each week. I also have my weekly 9pm Brand meeting each week. Overall, it's the longest day of the week.
Wednesday was an off day. We were supposed to get a delay, due to weather, but the weather never came. Everyone was off. Today, my teachers had various ARDs (Admission, Review, Dismissal) and IEP (Individual Education Plan) reviews so I taught a math class & reading class. It was so much fun. The child that has the severe behavior issues has an aid & was very encouraging. I like her already. :) I also have students with difficulties in behavior as well. I had to take something away from someone & got growled at. Looking back, it's funny. Not so much then. Having the opportunity to work with a SPED reading as well as a math teacher is so cool. I also ordered my senior ring today.
Thursday was great. I can say everyone was on their games. Nothing bad happened and the kids were responsive.
Friday-it was a Friday indeed. I had a student totally choose to spell every single spelling word wrong, one make a 100 on his, and several care less about grades. An experience in itself. I miss being in just one grade but totally love my experience thus far. One of my favorite parts of the day was taking a first grade student to the office to sign the brag book. Every morning, whomever signed the brag book is announced on the morning announcements. He made a 100 on his math and spelling tests. I was proud and he grinned ear to ear. I also found out my schedule will change a little next week.
8-9:45-Reading with 1st, 2nd, & 4th grade
10-10:30-Kindergarten-Inclusion
10:35-11:15-Fourth grade*
11:15-12-End of Reading (4/5th), Lunch, & planning
12-12:30-Reading with 1st graders-Inclusion
12:40-1:15-2nd Math
1:15-1:40-4th grade Math-Inclusion
1:45-2:45-2nd Grade S.S. & Science-Inclusion
2:50 on-with SPED teacher
3:05-3:45-tutoring (all level)
* Now working in an inclusion math class (sped students in a regular classroom). This is the change.
Next week, I have my first observation by my supervisor on Thursday. It will be in my 2nd grade class for Social Studies & Science. I'm not nervous though. We also are going to hopefully experience some of the coldest weather soon and maybe snow/ice. All I have to say is I'm hoping for a delay. ;) We got left out last week and am hoping not to repeat the same upset this week.
This morning, I had my fingerprints for my certification done. What an experience.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Student Teaching: Week 1
This week, I started student teaching. Honestly, I was petrified. I was so scared that it wouldn't go well. Well it went awesomely with a surprise at the end of the week.
I started on Wednesday morning. The kids swooned me over and were so precious. The teacher, Mrs. Allen, is amazing. She told me just to jump in and ask questions. The day just flew by. Thursday went amazingly as well. The kids crave your approval & don't talk back. Always a plus. I really loved eating lunch with the teachers in our room. This elementary does not have a teacher's lounge so my teacher, the teacher across the hall, and myself ate lunch in our room, chatted, and graded papers.
I started to get the routine down. By Wednesday evening, I was worthless. I was so worn out. Thursday & Friday were much better. My teacher apologized profusely (a bunch) as she was out with her kid, on Tuesday, Monday was a holiday, and her kiddo was sick at his school on Thursday. I said it was fine. Life happens. She said she was off. Maybe she was but I got a glimpse of life with two working parents and a sick kiddo. What a lesson in itself.
On Friday, I was called into the Principal's office. The kids wanted to know what I did wrong. Apparently, my teacher told my Principal that I dis really well with her Special Education students and had SPED experience. So I was asked/told that I was going to start in Special Education (all level) on Monday morning. I was unsure, directly after the meeting, about leaving my first graders. Heck, I just got their names all down. But my teacher calmed my fears and said "you were put in this assignment for a reason. It's not just an assignment. You were put into my life for a reason." Um wow! She calmed my fears!
It was really hard for me to say goodbye to my little first graders on Friday. I was told that if I had any time that I could come see my precious class. That made my day.
After school, I met my new Special Education teacher. We chatted for a while and then a friend popped into her room. My new assignment has me in the resource room and also in different regular education classrooms (working with inclusion sped students). My teacher, Mrs. Ellington, said she may not have my whole schedule down until Tuesday. I said that's fine.
I'm excited & nervous for Monday. I am glad that I get to see a little guy from my first grade class in resource reading on Monday morning. He goes to my new assignment and is precious. That will help me tremendously to see a familiar face. I'm looking at this move as a promotion of sorts.
As for how I'm doing in regards to getting up early, no problems. I'm in bed by 10 or 11 and up by 6 or 6:30. I love waking up to know I'm going to do what I love.
I am going to try getting up earlier to workout. Afternoons are short and I have a better chance of waking up early than getting it in late. I'll let you know how it goes!
I'll try to update more. The days went so fast this week.
I started on Wednesday morning. The kids swooned me over and were so precious. The teacher, Mrs. Allen, is amazing. She told me just to jump in and ask questions. The day just flew by. Thursday went amazingly as well. The kids crave your approval & don't talk back. Always a plus. I really loved eating lunch with the teachers in our room. This elementary does not have a teacher's lounge so my teacher, the teacher across the hall, and myself ate lunch in our room, chatted, and graded papers.
I started to get the routine down. By Wednesday evening, I was worthless. I was so worn out. Thursday & Friday were much better. My teacher apologized profusely (a bunch) as she was out with her kid, on Tuesday, Monday was a holiday, and her kiddo was sick at his school on Thursday. I said it was fine. Life happens. She said she was off. Maybe she was but I got a glimpse of life with two working parents and a sick kiddo. What a lesson in itself.
On Friday, I was called into the Principal's office. The kids wanted to know what I did wrong. Apparently, my teacher told my Principal that I dis really well with her Special Education students and had SPED experience. So I was asked/told that I was going to start in Special Education (all level) on Monday morning. I was unsure, directly after the meeting, about leaving my first graders. Heck, I just got their names all down. But my teacher calmed my fears and said "you were put in this assignment for a reason. It's not just an assignment. You were put into my life for a reason." Um wow! She calmed my fears!
It was really hard for me to say goodbye to my little first graders on Friday. I was told that if I had any time that I could come see my precious class. That made my day.
After school, I met my new Special Education teacher. We chatted for a while and then a friend popped into her room. My new assignment has me in the resource room and also in different regular education classrooms (working with inclusion sped students). My teacher, Mrs. Ellington, said she may not have my whole schedule down until Tuesday. I said that's fine.
I'm excited & nervous for Monday. I am glad that I get to see a little guy from my first grade class in resource reading on Monday morning. He goes to my new assignment and is precious. That will help me tremendously to see a familiar face. I'm looking at this move as a promotion of sorts.
As for how I'm doing in regards to getting up early, no problems. I'm in bed by 10 or 11 and up by 6 or 6:30. I love waking up to know I'm going to do what I love.
I am going to try getting up earlier to workout. Afternoons are short and I have a better chance of waking up early than getting it in late. I'll let you know how it goes!
I'll try to update more. The days went so fast this week.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Thankful Thursday
Thankful Thursday is a time, during the week, where you think of what you are thankful for. Everyone can play along. I only ask that if you do play and post a blog post about it that you link it to mine. If you don't want to do a post but do have a Thankful Thought, leave it in my comment section.
This week,
I am thankful that Alex is off the ventilator and breathing on his own.
I am thankful that I have access to doctors, of my own, who can help me too.
I am thankful for my family and friends & the support they give.
I am thankful that I have the protection of the U.S. military each and every day.
I hope you all have a great Christmas/holiday weekend. Granted it will be stressful and busy, but I am sure you will have fun. Please be safe and enjoy yourselves.
Happy Thursday!!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Update about me
Want to know why I have been MIA for the past few weeks? Well I'll give you the short version!
Mono-I was diagnosed with Mono one month ago and I am feeling the severe fatigue symptom. Then I was told the fatigue could last for one to three months! Well fan-stinkin-tastic! I am a little perturbed that I can't work out right now, per doctor's orders, but I have zero left over so it may be best! (I won't admit that aloud though)
Allergies- My seasonal and environmental allergies are HORRIBLE right now! No relief in sight since this is the "worst pollen season in years!"
Finals-Finals with 19 hours kicked my REAR this semester. Granted I took 19 hours but still-finals are always difficult for me!
BUT I am so glad I hung in there because I came out with SIX A's and ONE B this semester!!! One of my finals was such a doosey that I had hoped I could even get a B and I did :) :) :)!!! I am a perfectionist and know it too! A's have never been easy for me and TONS of studying is involved.
Third grade- I have been spending my "off" days/mornings in a third grade classroom. I help out where ever needed and feel satisfaction by being there. I would not mind teaching third grade eventually!
Maymester- I start tomorrow for a 2.5 week course. Lots of stuff jammed into one session.
Friend-One of my dearest friends, whom has adopted me as her granddaughter, is in the hospital and will be for at least another week. I have been visiting with her once or twice a day depending on the day. She is 77 years old!
So there you have it! Why I have been busy these past few days!
Mono-I was diagnosed with Mono one month ago and I am feeling the severe fatigue symptom. Then I was told the fatigue could last for one to three months! Well fan-stinkin-tastic! I am a little perturbed that I can't work out right now, per doctor's orders, but I have zero left over so it may be best! (I won't admit that aloud though)
Allergies- My seasonal and environmental allergies are HORRIBLE right now! No relief in sight since this is the "worst pollen season in years!"
Finals-Finals with 19 hours kicked my REAR this semester. Granted I took 19 hours but still-finals are always difficult for me!
BUT I am so glad I hung in there because I came out with SIX A's and ONE B this semester!!! One of my finals was such a doosey that I had hoped I could even get a B and I did :) :) :)!!! I am a perfectionist and know it too! A's have never been easy for me and TONS of studying is involved.
Third grade- I have been spending my "off" days/mornings in a third grade classroom. I help out where ever needed and feel satisfaction by being there. I would not mind teaching third grade eventually!
Maymester- I start tomorrow for a 2.5 week course. Lots of stuff jammed into one session.
Friend-One of my dearest friends, whom has adopted me as her granddaughter, is in the hospital and will be for at least another week. I have been visiting with her once or twice a day depending on the day. She is 77 years old!
So there you have it! Why I have been busy these past few days!
Have a great week!!!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Waiting, update, & a prayer request
I am sooo sorry it has been so long since I have last updated. Between 19 hours, projects, and finals this week, I have really not had time. BUT finals just finished today and I have a little time to blog now. Sure I am taking a Maymester class starting next Tuesday-but hey, it ain't 19 hours! I am officially DONE with taking so many hours!!!!
Now the waiting game continues as I wait for my final grades. I am usually a patient person but when something like this comes along, I am just ready for the results asap. It's like waiting for your favorite cake to come out of the oven :)
I have missed my blogging time and the sweet comments that I got so I am so glad summer is here, for me anyways!
Prayer request: Cochran Quads-Two of the Cochran quads are in the hospital with Rotovirus and two of the other little ones have it at home too. Never a dull moment for Sandra's kids. Keep them in your prayers please! They need them now!
Now the waiting game continues as I wait for my final grades. I am usually a patient person but when something like this comes along, I am just ready for the results asap. It's like waiting for your favorite cake to come out of the oven :)
I have missed my blogging time and the sweet comments that I got so I am so glad summer is here, for me anyways!
Prayer request: Cochran Quads-Two of the Cochran quads are in the hospital with Rotovirus and two of the other little ones have it at home too. Never a dull moment for Sandra's kids. Keep them in your prayers please! They need them now!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Fabulous weekend review
* I unplugged from the computer for 24 hours from Friday night to Saturday night and this is just what I needed.
* I watched movies and chilled for the majority of my weekend.
* I am working out and it is kicking my rear...literally...but I love the feeling afterwards.
* I slept and napped and enjoyed it!
* My dad and brother stopped by on their way home from a boy scout camp out and hung my blackout curtains. I still see a light during the day but see NONE of the street light outside my window now...YIPPEE!!! I can finally sleep in my bed rather the couch.
* I found the store Mardel and just enjoyed walking around today.
* I took time for me and enjoyed every minute of it!
Back to the grind tomorrow and I am actually looking forward to what the rest of the week brings!
* I watched movies and chilled for the majority of my weekend.
* I am working out and it is kicking my rear...literally...but I love the feeling afterwards.
* I slept and napped and enjoyed it!
* My dad and brother stopped by on their way home from a boy scout camp out and hung my blackout curtains. I still see a light during the day but see NONE of the street light outside my window now...YIPPEE!!! I can finally sleep in my bed rather the couch.
* I found the store Mardel and just enjoyed walking around today.
* I took time for me and enjoyed every minute of it!
Back to the grind tomorrow and I am actually looking forward to what the rest of the week brings!
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