Here is our Christmas eve picture before heading off to church Sunday morning. We had a great Christmas at the Oudmans, we missed being with the Perkins side, but remember our time at Thanksgiving with fondness. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Grading and Merry Christmas!
Dan and I are technically on Christmas break, but it doesn't feel like it AT ALL. I have been grading persuasive essays for the last four days and I am finally finished. But now I have To Kill a Mockingbird tests to grade, and two units to plan, and I could start planning for next semester, and - I CAN'T STOP!!! I'M A WORKAHOLIC!!!
But I'm trying to stop. I am seriously thinking about not taking ANY schoolwork to my parents' house where we'll be for the next week. I would still have the weekend before school to planning and grading . . . but I just don't know if I can do it. It's like I have a sick addiction to schoolwork; I want to stop but I can't but I actually don't want to be doing schoolwork over break. Anyway, I'm hoping I'll get over this as soon as I get to my parents' and my sister and I start playing Mario 3 on the old school Nintendo.
In defense of ourselves not being complete workaholic dorks, Dan and I have been out or had people over every night this week, and we have stayed up till 1 am watching the 2nd season of The OC. Yes, I know it's pathetic but at least we can't think about schoolwork while we're watching. :)
On another note, I hope you all have a stress-free, thoughtful, blessed Christmas and holiday!
But I'm trying to stop. I am seriously thinking about not taking ANY schoolwork to my parents' house where we'll be for the next week. I would still have the weekend before school to planning and grading . . . but I just don't know if I can do it. It's like I have a sick addiction to schoolwork; I want to stop but I can't but I actually don't want to be doing schoolwork over break. Anyway, I'm hoping I'll get over this as soon as I get to my parents' and my sister and I start playing Mario 3 on the old school Nintendo.
In defense of ourselves not being complete workaholic dorks, Dan and I have been out or had people over every night this week, and we have stayed up till 1 am watching the 2nd season of The OC. Yes, I know it's pathetic but at least we can't think about schoolwork while we're watching. :)
On another note, I hope you all have a stress-free, thoughtful, blessed Christmas and holiday!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
IowaTrip 016
At the Blue Mountain in Orange City, good food and good company. We ate some reptile for appetizer. Mmmm tasty.
IowaTrip 012
Our weekend trip to SC, Iowa.
It was a good time of visiting old friends and the Humble Bean. Saw Becca sing and it was awesome. Sam, Kevin, Matt, Andrew K, Dr. Vos, Dr. Vander Zee, Z-man (yup he still knows my name), the Hendersons, the Van Wykes, and even someone from Pella Windows. It was a whirlwind tour!
It was a good time of visiting old friends and the Humble Bean. Saw Becca sing and it was awesome. Sam, Kevin, Matt, Andrew K, Dr. Vos, Dr. Vander Zee, Z-man (yup he still knows my name), the Hendersons, the Van Wykes, and even someone from Pella Windows. It was a whirlwind tour!
SOC Aluminum Recycle
Click on Farmer3 to see new pictures. I finally figured out my Flickr account stuff, so the new name is Farmer3 located at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/danjulieperkins/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/danjulieperkins/
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Thanks06 030
At the Ram for birthday celebration!
I have a new flickr account, Farmer3 now, and my oudmanperkins account will soon be deleted, just so you know!
Dan P
I have a new flickr account, Farmer3 now, and my oudmanperkins account will soon be deleted, just so you know!
Dan P
Monday, December 04, 2006
family pic
A family pic from Thanksgiving in Boise, Idaho. More pictures coming soon as I will download them shortly.
Life is busy, just finished writing a 6,ooo dollar grant for a farm I may be working with this summer and oh ya, got to start writing my thesis now!! What am I doing blogging? Ahhh, to many distractions! Must type . . e. .e .g a.d . .
Life is busy, just finished writing a 6,ooo dollar grant for a farm I may be working with this summer and oh ya, got to start writing my thesis now!! What am I doing blogging? Ahhh, to many distractions! Must type . . e. .e .g a.d . .
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Ethics Question: Response
Thanks to all who posted in response to our question about Internet usage ethics. We have decided not to use our neighbor's wireless service (which, in part, is why it's taken me so long to respond to your comments). I do think it's stealing to use our neighbor's service, and, while your arguments were convincing, I also find it compelling that we were convicted to ask the question in the first place (which brings to mind questions about how the Holy Spirit works).
I've started a unit on the Age of Reason and persuasive writing in my English 11 American Literature class, and I would like to use your comments regarding Internet usage and copyrighted music in class. If you have any objections to this, please let me know in the next few days!
I've started a unit on the Age of Reason and persuasive writing in my English 11 American Literature class, and I would like to use your comments regarding Internet usage and copyrighted music in class. If you have any objections to this, please let me know in the next few days!
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Ethics Question
Is it stealing to use somebody's else unblocked wireless Internet service? We are having this discussion because our neighbors have unblocked wireless; should we use it or not?
I'm reading Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt adn Stephen J. Dubner, and this is one of the questions I've been thinking about after reading the chapter "What do Schoolteachers and Sumo Wrestlers Have in Common?". Fascinating book.
I'm reading Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt adn Stephen J. Dubner, and this is one of the questions I've been thinking about after reading the chapter "What do Schoolteachers and Sumo Wrestlers Have in Common?". Fascinating book.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Fall
Dan is in bed reading Watership Down and laughing crazily. I'm scared. I finished that book last weekend, reading the last 200 pages or so Saturday morning in bed while Dan made buttermilk pancakes. Have any of you read it? I recommend it if you like intense books about rabbits (okay, okay, it's so much more than that but I just don't have the energy to give a good book review - especially since I have to grade 120 book reviews over the next week).
This week is fall break for me. I have a full day of school tomorrow, half a day of classes Tuesday and then parent-teacher conferences from 12-6, and half a day of classes on Wednesday with dismissal for everyone at noon. Thursday and Friday are off - yippie! I'm going to my parents for Friday and Saturday while Dan diligently works on his thesis.
I love fall. Last night we took our friends two girls (Elli - 3, Abigail - 4) to a fall party where we carved pumpkins, went on a hay ride, and drank spiced cider with rum (we left the rum out of the girls' drinks, just for the record). Today Dan and I took a nap on freshly washed sheets and under our warm duvet, listening to the cold wind blow outside our window. What could be better than that kind of comfort?
This week is fall break for me. I have a full day of school tomorrow, half a day of classes Tuesday and then parent-teacher conferences from 12-6, and half a day of classes on Wednesday with dismissal for everyone at noon. Thursday and Friday are off - yippie! I'm going to my parents for Friday and Saturday while Dan diligently works on his thesis.
I love fall. Last night we took our friends two girls (Elli - 3, Abigail - 4) to a fall party where we carved pumpkins, went on a hay ride, and drank spiced cider with rum (we left the rum out of the girls' drinks, just for the record). Today Dan and I took a nap on freshly washed sheets and under our warm duvet, listening to the cold wind blow outside our window. What could be better than that kind of comfort?
Sunday, October 15, 2006
I Still Exist
I can't remember the last time I blogged. I have been SO busy since school started, but I really like my job! Tomorrow is my first field trip; I'm taking my juniors to see Huck Finn at the Indiana Repertory Theater in Indianapolis, and Dan is coming with as a chaperone! Yippie!
I don't even know where to start in catching you up with how my job is going, but I've learned to be somewhat paranoid about posting anything on my blog related to school, especially since I've checked my blog once or twice from my school computer. For anyone who's interested in my paranoia or my job, I can tell you the next time we talk. I'm sorry this is boring; I have so many good stories!
I don't even know where to start in catching you up with how my job is going, but I've learned to be somewhat paranoid about posting anything on my blog related to school, especially since I've checked my blog once or twice from my school computer. For anyone who's interested in my paranoia or my job, I can tell you the next time we talk. I'm sorry this is boring; I have so many good stories!
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Evangelicals for Global Climate Change
Hey All, latest political aspect from Dan P.
Here is a chance to be bi-partisan and exercise your citizenship! Encourge our Christian leaders in all areas of gov't to take action to reduce Global Climate Change! Click here EYCI DOC
The idea is to collect signatures of as many young christians before Halloween to motivate our Christian leaders and gov't officials to action on Global Climate Change!
This is part of a nation wide push, so read through it, print it out, and get all your friends to sign it.
For just yourself you can send your
Name
Church,Institution, or School
State
Year of Birth
to
brandon@restoringeden.org He is a friend of mine that works for Restoring Eden
If you missed Bill Moyers' show on PBS; Is God Green? last night, then check this out,(http://www.pbs.org/moyers/moyersonamerica/green/index.html ) but also take direct action by signing the initative attached.
Thanks so much and God Bless!
Dan Perkins
Here is a chance to be bi-partisan and exercise your citizenship! Encourge our Christian leaders in all areas of gov't to take action to reduce Global Climate Change! Click here EYCI DOC
The idea is to collect signatures of as many young christians before Halloween to motivate our Christian leaders and gov't officials to action on Global Climate Change!
This is part of a nation wide push, so read through it, print it out, and get all your friends to sign it.
For just yourself you can send your
Name
Church,Institution, or School
State
Year of Birth
to
brandon@restoringeden.org He is a friend of mine that works for Restoring Eden
If you missed Bill Moyers' show on PBS; Is God Green? last night, then check this out,(http://www.pbs.org/moyers/moyersonamerica/green/index.html ) but also take direct action by signing the initative attached.
Thanks so much and God Bless!
Dan Perkins
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Invisible Children of Northern Uganda
Last night julie and I and our friends the Bitner's sat down and watched a short documentary on life in Northern Uganda. Little did we know that we were going to be called to do. In fact here is the first stage in our response- telling others the story of Uganda.
I am compelled to tell because, what does the Lord require of us? But to love mercy, to act justly, and to walk humbly before our God. Here is an opportunity for me, you, and all of us to do just as Micah 6:8 is talking about. Click here first
Invisible Children
Second, mark your calendars for Oct 9-10 weekends and plan to make some calls. I have been to D.C. to lobby twice in my life on various issues, and trust me one phone call does make a difference.
Thank you and let us keep this dialogue going . . .
I am compelled to tell because, what does the Lord require of us? But to love mercy, to act justly, and to walk humbly before our God. Here is an opportunity for me, you, and all of us to do just as Micah 6:8 is talking about. Click here first
Invisible Children
Second, mark your calendars for Oct 9-10 weekends and plan to make some calls. I have been to D.C. to lobby twice in my life on various issues, and trust me one phone call does make a difference.
Thank you and let us keep this dialogue going . . .
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
My thesis abstract . . . if you want to read it.
my thesis as officially submitted to Indiana Academy of Science.
Title:
Science, politics, and quality of life in Petrozavodsk, Russia: A case study in urban forest management.
Daniel M. Perkins* and Edwin R. Squiers, Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Taylor University, Upland, IN 46989.
During the summer of 2006, the ecological services provided by urban street trees in Petrozavodsk, Russia were assessed and monetized using the U.S. Forest Service Urban Forest Effect Model (UFORE). The data from more than 1,200 street trees were combined with meteorological information and air pollution data to estimate the value of the ecological services the trees provided. This paper will outline the goals of the larger study and then focus on a specific event that illustrates the difficulties arising when political management decision-making conflicts with available scientific information. During the summer of 2005, a falling tree limb resulted in a “loss-of-life” incident prompting city government officials to order the large-scale cutting or “toping” of more than 1500 of the city’s street trees. In this presentation we will explore the present and future impacts of this action on quality of life in the city.
Title:
Science, politics, and quality of life in Petrozavodsk, Russia: A case study in urban forest management.
Daniel M. Perkins* and Edwin R. Squiers, Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Taylor University, Upland, IN 46989.
During the summer of 2006, the ecological services provided by urban street trees in Petrozavodsk, Russia were assessed and monetized using the U.S. Forest Service Urban Forest Effect Model (UFORE). The data from more than 1,200 street trees were combined with meteorological information and air pollution data to estimate the value of the ecological services the trees provided. This paper will outline the goals of the larger study and then focus on a specific event that illustrates the difficulties arising when political management decision-making conflicts with available scientific information. During the summer of 2005, a falling tree limb resulted in a “loss-of-life” incident prompting city government officials to order the large-scale cutting or “toping” of more than 1500 of the city’s street trees. In this presentation we will explore the present and future impacts of this action on quality of life in the city.
2006 Taylor Tinman Triatholon
A hard finish to a hard race. 60 yards of swiming in frigid water, 8 miles of hilly biking-on my good old huffy 40 dollar bike- and then 3 miles of running. Taylor Tinman 2006!
The swim was fast and furious and I lost my watch somewhere by the dock (click on my face for more photos of the race). The bike ride was sweet. The last 3 miles I was neck and neck with two other bikers. We kept passing each other, going faster and faster, like greyhounds on nitro. I was thinking Lance Armstrong strategy the whole time, so on the last hilly mile I pumped it up and crushed their competitive edge by blowing them away!! I have been lifting recently and that helped big time. (Did I mention that they had fancy road bikes!)
The run was pure agony. You will know what I mean if you have every biked a long time and then tried to run. I was in fourth at this point about 200 yards from the third place guy. The second place guy stopped running because of major cramps, so that moved me up to third. The last mile and a half I got a second wind and slowly caught up to number 2. From about 100 yards I could see he had a side cramp (not that I didnt) and knew he was mine! I sped past him and finished second overall! Did I mention the winner was some cross country star from taylor . . . . oh ya and that I am almost thirty and most of the guys were 21 or 20. Hahahahahah . . .
The swim was fast and furious and I lost my watch somewhere by the dock (click on my face for more photos of the race). The bike ride was sweet. The last 3 miles I was neck and neck with two other bikers. We kept passing each other, going faster and faster, like greyhounds on nitro. I was thinking Lance Armstrong strategy the whole time, so on the last hilly mile I pumped it up and crushed their competitive edge by blowing them away!! I have been lifting recently and that helped big time. (Did I mention that they had fancy road bikes!)
The run was pure agony. You will know what I mean if you have every biked a long time and then tried to run. I was in fourth at this point about 200 yards from the third place guy. The second place guy stopped running because of major cramps, so that moved me up to third. The last mile and a half I got a second wind and slowly caught up to number 2. From about 100 yards I could see he had a side cramp (not that I didnt) and knew he was mine! I sped past him and finished second overall! Did I mention the winner was some cross country star from taylor . . . . oh ya and that I am almost thirty and most of the guys were 21 or 20. Hahahahahah . . .
Monday, September 11, 2006
Mississenwa River Trip
Our overnight camping/canoe crew. We slept on a small gravel island. No mats, so it felt like acupuncture gone wrong by 2 in the morning. Oh the joys!
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Professor Perkins
Yup, now that I am T.A. in 3 Intro to Environmental Science labs I am now being referred to as Prof. Perkins. Now, I didn't assign this name to myself, but rather it came by way of a recent e-mail question from one of the students in the labs. I expected to maybe be called Half-master Perkins or something like that, but not Professor. Well, must be off to work on my Thesis. Last chance before classes start.
Dan
Dan
Monday, August 21, 2006
Brule 059
Ya, whitewater, lake, and gentle river all packed into one. Check out recent pictures from my kayaking trip to the Brule River in Wisc. Now back to the school grind.
Click on the Brule 059 below the pic for more pic
Click on the Brule 059 below the pic for more pic
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Maine, Here We Come!
Thanks for the book recommendations from the last post. I started reading Rabbit, Run and I felt more down than I was ready for, so I switched to Girlfriend with a Coma, a somewhat lighter read. I do intend on reading Rabbit, but I have to build up to it. I will look into Alice Munro, Katy, since I don't think I've read anything by her.
Dan and I leave for Maine tomorrow! We are planning on camping in West Virginia tomorrow, then heading to D.C. to see Eric's puppet show. After that we go up to Mass. to visit Caretaker Farm and Grampy (and Walden Pond). We plan on arriving in Maine on Friday; family, games, the beach, and seafood await! Yippie!
Dan and I watched Lady in the Water today. I was a bit apprehensive after hearing a poor review of the movie on NPR, but we liked it overall. Definitely not my favorite of his films, but the reviewer I heard said Shyamalan said it was his "most heartfelt work," and Shyamalan also had significant acting role in this one, so I wanted to see it. Anybody else see this yet?
Dan and I leave for Maine tomorrow! We are planning on camping in West Virginia tomorrow, then heading to D.C. to see Eric's puppet show. After that we go up to Mass. to visit Caretaker Farm and Grampy (and Walden Pond). We plan on arriving in Maine on Friday; family, games, the beach, and seafood await! Yippie!
Dan and I watched Lady in the Water today. I was a bit apprehensive after hearing a poor review of the movie on NPR, but we liked it overall. Definitely not my favorite of his films, but the reviewer I heard said Shyamalan said it was his "most heartfelt work," and Shyamalan also had significant acting role in this one, so I wanted to see it. Anybody else see this yet?
Thursday, July 20, 2006
The End of Summer School and My Trip to the Library
Yesterday was my last day of classes, but not my last day of work. I finished grading my last short story around 3 pm today (after about 8 hours of grading over 2 days - not fun in the summer), and this evening we have a banquet to attend. Tomorrow is my last teacher's meeting. Teaching at Upward Bound was a really good experience for me, and I encourage you teachers out there to check it out! One little comment: Today the director complimented me on my teaching over these past 6 weeks, and then he said, "To be honest, I wasn't sure how things would work with having such a young teacher, but you showed yourself to be a very mature young woman." What's funny about this is that every one thinks I look so young! I'm 25 years old, and people still think I'm underage (remember the bonfire in Wisconsin?)! I think I'm going to start wearing heavy eyeliner and high heels.
This afternoon, after I finished my last paper, I went to the library to check out some books for our upcoming Maine vacation. They didn't have any of the books on my list, so I just went through the fiction section and picked out books that caught my eye. What a lovely experience! I haven't done that since high school or before, and every time I saw a book I really liked, I did that little "mmm" sound, without even realizing it (good thing no one else was in the fiction section with me). I felt like I was meeting old friends; fortunately I didn't start talking to any of the books. That would have been embarassing.
Anyway, here is the list of books I checked out. We'll see how many I get to read over the next 3 weeks.
This afternoon, after I finished my last paper, I went to the library to check out some books for our upcoming Maine vacation. They didn't have any of the books on my list, so I just went through the fiction section and picked out books that caught my eye. What a lovely experience! I haven't done that since high school or before, and every time I saw a book I really liked, I did that little "mmm" sound, without even realizing it (good thing no one else was in the fiction section with me). I felt like I was meeting old friends; fortunately I didn't start talking to any of the books. That would have been embarassing.
Anyway, here is the list of books I checked out. We'll see how many I get to read over the next 3 weeks.
- Rabbit, Run by John Updike (I wanted to read Terrorist by him, but they didn't have it)
- Curtain & the Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie
- The First Man by Albert Camus
- Back When We Were Grownups by Anne Tyler (I wanted Digging for America)
- House Made of Dawn by N. Scott Momaday
- Girlfriend in a Coma by Douglas Coupland
- The Gift of Asher Lev by Chaim Potok
- The Best American Short Stories edited by Barbara Kingsolver
Have you read any of these? Do you have any other book recommendations?
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Thursday, July 06, 2006
My lastest handy work
Once again, another man's trash is another's treasure. I found some old closet doors in the trash and hardwood panels, cut them up and created useful items. I think we may now have enough bookcases to have almost all our books out, wait . . another box of books . . . Julie . . .
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
It's Official
I talked to the principal at Yorktown today, and I was officially approved for hiring last night by the school board. Yippie!
As for the rest of our lives, we are singing Sublime's "Summertime" on a fairly regular basis. (Disclaimer: I don't know all the words in the song - I'm thinking of the "living easy" part, so if there's any illegal activity noted in that song, we may or may not be participating in it. :) ) A regular part of my afternoon schedule for the past week has consisted of reading Dillard's An American Childhood, drifting into sleepyland with Sammy by my side, and then waking for some more reading. Lovely.
Today Grandma and Lary came to visit. They took us out for lunch at Payne's. Tasty. We love visitors!
As for the rest of our lives, we are singing Sublime's "Summertime" on a fairly regular basis. (Disclaimer: I don't know all the words in the song - I'm thinking of the "living easy" part, so if there's any illegal activity noted in that song, we may or may not be participating in it. :) ) A regular part of my afternoon schedule for the past week has consisted of reading Dillard's An American Childhood, drifting into sleepyland with Sammy by my side, and then waking for some more reading. Lovely.
Today Grandma and Lary came to visit. They took us out for lunch at Payne's. Tasty. We love visitors!
Thursday, June 15, 2006
DC Canoe Trip at Assaguea
The guys canoeing for Eric's Bachelor party. You should have seen the horses . . .
Our Plant Deck
Finally got some pictures of our new apartment. Just click on the link below the picture to see the full set of pictures. It is so much more cozy then a big house.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Two New Jobs
Today is my second day of teaching Upward Bound, and so far it is going well. There is a huge difference between teaching seniors and freshmen! The freshmen (who just finished 8th grade) are so quiet, obedient, and respectful - I love it! The seniors (who just finished grade 11) always have an opinion, which actually makes class quite fun and entertaining.
My second new job will start in the fall at Yorktown High School - yes, I got a full-time teaching job! I interviewed with them on Tuesday, and they called Tuesday night and said that I interviewed really well and that I should call them if another school were to offer me a job (because they had more interviews and wouldn't make a final decision till Friday). The principal called me around 7:30 Friday night, offering me the position, and I made my final decision yesterday (after a very stressful yet trying to be peaceful weekend). I still can't believe it! I am VERY thankful for the position, though.
My second new job will start in the fall at Yorktown High School - yes, I got a full-time teaching job! I interviewed with them on Tuesday, and they called Tuesday night and said that I interviewed really well and that I should call them if another school were to offer me a job (because they had more interviews and wouldn't make a final decision till Friday). The principal called me around 7:30 Friday night, offering me the position, and I made my final decision yesterday (after a very stressful yet trying to be peaceful weekend). I still can't believe it! I am VERY thankful for the position, though.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Interviews
Today I have my first official interview for a full-time teaching job in the public school system. I am a little nervous but trying to remain calm. Tomorrow I have a phone call with a superintendent and then another interview at a different school at 11 am. I am so thankful I am getting interviews! Pray that I will remain calm and be myself. I think it's going to be okay. :)
On another note, we moved this weekend from the house to an apartment. My parents and some friends from church helped us move, and it went really smoothly - thanks for your help! Yesterday Dan and I spent 3 1/2 hours cleaning the house. Yuck! I'm glad that's done. I like our new apartment a lot. We'll post pictures once we have things more set up.
On another note, we moved this weekend from the house to an apartment. My parents and some friends from church helped us move, and it went really smoothly - thanks for your help! Yesterday Dan and I spent 3 1/2 hours cleaning the house. Yuck! I'm glad that's done. I like our new apartment a lot. We'll post pictures once we have things more set up.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Free Woman
I am officially finished with my first semester of teaching - no more grading! At least until June 12, when I start my summer teaching job. I know this may be boring to some of you, but I have to share what my Saturday looked like because it was wonderful:
- Woke up at 6:17 am after sleeping the ENTIRE night through without waking up once. When is the last time that happened?
- Finished reading Summer Sisters by Judy Blume.
- Cuddled with Dan and lay in bed for an hour or so.
- Ate breakfast with Dan outside.
- Packed a little.
- Started mowing the lawn.
- Went to an herb/garden center with my friend Jane for a couple hours.
- Ate lunch.
- Finished mowing the lawn.
- Showered and went to a graduation party where we chatted with people for a couple hours.
- Read our new cat book.
- Went on a date with Dan to Indy: Barnes and Noble and Buca di Beppo's - bruschetta, salad with gorgonzola, red wine, lasagna, cheesecake, and after dinner drinks. Celebrating the accomplishments of the last year!
- Came home and cuddled some more.
NOTICE THAT THERE WAS NO SCHOOLWORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tomorrow we leave for DC!!!
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Dan's birthday!
Today is Dan's birthday! He is 27! We as a couple aren't doing anything too special today because it's Taylor's graduation and I have a bridal shower to go to tonight, but Dan is going to an Over the Rhine concert tonight in Fort Wayne.
I have one more week of school left. I just wrote my last final, which means from here on out all my planning is finished and all I have is grading. Craziness! My goal is to be completely done by Friday so I don't have to come back during the weekend.
I got a job teaching in a program called Upward Bound this summer. I will be teaching English to high school students who will (hopefully) be the first generation in their family to go to college. The program is through Indiana Wesleyan University and is designed to give these students the same academic advantages that students growing up with college-educated parents have. I'll be working June 12-July 21, Monday-Friday, 8 am-12 pm. Half-days of teaching and hopefully not too much grading! I am excited and thankful for this opportunity!
I have one more week of school left. I just wrote my last final, which means from here on out all my planning is finished and all I have is grading. Craziness! My goal is to be completely done by Friday so I don't have to come back during the weekend.
I got a job teaching in a program called Upward Bound this summer. I will be teaching English to high school students who will (hopefully) be the first generation in their family to go to college. The program is through Indiana Wesleyan University and is designed to give these students the same academic advantages that students growing up with college-educated parents have. I'll be working June 12-July 21, Monday-Friday, 8 am-12 pm. Half-days of teaching and hopefully not too much grading! I am excited and thankful for this opportunity!
Monday, May 08, 2006
WEb_RussiaPoster5_01_06
My thesis project summarized! I won second at a recent poster session here at Taylor!
A CSA in Upland and working with inner city!
Below is a description of a ministry here in Upland, based out of Indy that Julie and I have become involved in. I am basically consulting or acting like one for the CSA startup. Funny how God prepares the way, he hems us in from behind and before us . . .
The pastor behind this is really seeking, what does it mean to be Christian and in community with the world and engaging the culture around us? To live as Jesus would have lived in this day and age. 70% of his congregation is below the poverty line and he doesn't just want to offer a hand out, but a true hand up and helping to change the structural and spiritual problems that plague downtown Indy.
Victory Acres, Upland
Having been in relationship with many who have tried to dry out and clean up, I have seen the pressures and the temptations they face, and I have watched them fail. While we all have a choice, not all backgrounds are equal. My daddy loved us and provided for us. Curtis’ father shot him up with heroin for the first time at the age of eight. Now in his mid-thirties, Curtis is a little boy who never really grew up. He does not have the space or time with his current situation to learn the lessons he was never taught. He is a little boy in a man’s world. He has bills to pay, rent that is due, and a wife and two children to provide for. Curtis and people like him need a place to step out of society, learn some skills, and conquer their addictions.
For a long time, we have recognized a need for a place outside the city where people like Curtis and others like him could go to heal and rebuild – a place with good work in a peaceful environment without the distractions of alcohol or drugs readily available. While sin is everywhere, the rebellion against God is more blatant and evident in the city. In order to rebuild, many will need to get away from the liquor stores, crack houses, and brokenness so evident in our neighborhood.
As most of you know, I grew up on a farm near Upland, IN, about an hour northeast of Indianapolis. I lived there my whole life until going to college at Union Bible College. There were many lessons that I learned on that farm, and I have often longed that many of the people with whom we are in relationship now could experience those same lessons – space, beauty, quietness, hard work, community, and ultimately, the God who makes all of this possible. I spent three days this past year alone in prayer on the farm on a prayer retreat. During this time, I sketched out what it might look like to have a place where people from the city could come to recoup and rebuild. The dream began to take shape.
The Farm House built by George Himelick, my great, great Grandfather
I have always dreamed of the space where I grew up being somehow connected to the work that God has given me now, but I never could quite see it happening. My Grandfather, has owned the 114 acres since the 1960’s when he bought it from his grandmother. Her father had willed it to her before that. All told, it has been in the family for at least six generations. With Grandpa no longer able to keep up with the farm, he considered selling off part of it. This past fall, I approached him about the possibility of the ministry buying it on contract with them continuing to live there. We presented a proposal to the Himelick family and to the VICM Board of Directors. While the details are still pending, everyone was in favor of the idea.
VICM is purchasing the farm and will start with Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) as a way to keep it a working farm. There are plans to expand our scope in the future to include livestock, but at first, we are going to keep it simple. We will raise just herbs and vegetables. All foods will be naturally grown. While not certified organic, our produce will be raised following organic standards. We will be planting this spring!
With Community Supported Agriculture, members participate and share in the risk of the farmer. Each member will receive a “share” of the produce. If there is a good crop, the members will benefit. If there is a drought, they may get nothing. What they do with their share is up to them; they may freeze it, can it, or give it away. Limited delivery of our produce will be available especially for the people in and around Indianapolis. For the first year, we are limiting our CSA to forty members. Each member pays a yearly fee of $400.00 to join the CSA. There is an additional cost of $60.00 per year for delivery. This money will be used for the purchase and upkeep of the farm.
Full story
Victory Acres and their Ministry
The pastor behind this is really seeking, what does it mean to be Christian and in community with the world and engaging the culture around us? To live as Jesus would have lived in this day and age. 70% of his congregation is below the poverty line and he doesn't just want to offer a hand out, but a true hand up and helping to change the structural and spiritual problems that plague downtown Indy.
Victory Acres, Upland
Having been in relationship with many who have tried to dry out and clean up, I have seen the pressures and the temptations they face, and I have watched them fail. While we all have a choice, not all backgrounds are equal. My daddy loved us and provided for us. Curtis’ father shot him up with heroin for the first time at the age of eight. Now in his mid-thirties, Curtis is a little boy who never really grew up. He does not have the space or time with his current situation to learn the lessons he was never taught. He is a little boy in a man’s world. He has bills to pay, rent that is due, and a wife and two children to provide for. Curtis and people like him need a place to step out of society, learn some skills, and conquer their addictions.
For a long time, we have recognized a need for a place outside the city where people like Curtis and others like him could go to heal and rebuild – a place with good work in a peaceful environment without the distractions of alcohol or drugs readily available. While sin is everywhere, the rebellion against God is more blatant and evident in the city. In order to rebuild, many will need to get away from the liquor stores, crack houses, and brokenness so evident in our neighborhood.
As most of you know, I grew up on a farm near Upland, IN, about an hour northeast of Indianapolis. I lived there my whole life until going to college at Union Bible College. There were many lessons that I learned on that farm, and I have often longed that many of the people with whom we are in relationship now could experience those same lessons – space, beauty, quietness, hard work, community, and ultimately, the God who makes all of this possible. I spent three days this past year alone in prayer on the farm on a prayer retreat. During this time, I sketched out what it might look like to have a place where people from the city could come to recoup and rebuild. The dream began to take shape.
The Farm House built by George Himelick, my great, great Grandfather
I have always dreamed of the space where I grew up being somehow connected to the work that God has given me now, but I never could quite see it happening. My Grandfather, has owned the 114 acres since the 1960’s when he bought it from his grandmother. Her father had willed it to her before that. All told, it has been in the family for at least six generations. With Grandpa no longer able to keep up with the farm, he considered selling off part of it. This past fall, I approached him about the possibility of the ministry buying it on contract with them continuing to live there. We presented a proposal to the Himelick family and to the VICM Board of Directors. While the details are still pending, everyone was in favor of the idea.
VICM is purchasing the farm and will start with Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) as a way to keep it a working farm. There are plans to expand our scope in the future to include livestock, but at first, we are going to keep it simple. We will raise just herbs and vegetables. All foods will be naturally grown. While not certified organic, our produce will be raised following organic standards. We will be planting this spring!
With Community Supported Agriculture, members participate and share in the risk of the farmer. Each member will receive a “share” of the produce. If there is a good crop, the members will benefit. If there is a drought, they may get nothing. What they do with their share is up to them; they may freeze it, can it, or give it away. Limited delivery of our produce will be available especially for the people in and around Indianapolis. For the first year, we are limiting our CSA to forty members. Each member pays a yearly fee of $400.00 to join the CSA. There is an additional cost of $60.00 per year for delivery. This money will be used for the purchase and upkeep of the farm.
Full story
Victory Acres and their Ministry
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Cincinnati
I'm in Cincinnati right now on a girls outing! One of my friends is in the bathroom, so I thought I'd write a quick post. We spent the night at a Hampton last night, and tonight we're going shopping and just hanging out while the guys take care of the kids (not that WE have any, but our friends do:)). That's all for now.
15 more days of school. Yes!
15 more days of school. Yes!
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Jason and I at the fire
The Avis Prairie Burn this Spring. Click on Farmer3 for more pictures of this sweet burn.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Taylor University Van Crash
Hey all, just wanted to let you know that all is safe in the Perkins household. If you haven't heard, a Taylor University van was in an accident last night and four students and one staff member where killed.
The campus is mourning this loss. The body struck, but not broken.
Andrew (my brother) sent me an e-mail to inquire if I was involved in anyway, so I thought I would let you all know.
What if I was in that van? In fact, I probably have ridden in that very same van for a field trip. The students and staff were coming back from setting up for a banquet. The campus is heavy and silent. We didn't know any of the students personally, but just by face. It sure shocks one back into reality and the importance of everyday relationships. How quickly life can change?
Dan P
For the story
Taylor Crash
The campus is mourning this loss. The body struck, but not broken.
Andrew (my brother) sent me an e-mail to inquire if I was involved in anyway, so I thought I would let you all know.
What if I was in that van? In fact, I probably have ridden in that very same van for a field trip. The students and staff were coming back from setting up for a banquet. The campus is heavy and silent. We didn't know any of the students personally, but just by face. It sure shocks one back into reality and the importance of everyday relationships. How quickly life can change?
Dan P
For the story
Taylor Crash
Dan is back on the attack
Hey all, I feel like I have been gone for a very long time. Wait, last time I posted was . . .March 24, wow, I am have been busy. I brought Dr.Squiers (my advisor for my thesis project) to the airport two weeks ago so I have finally gotten some breathing room. I had to have a bunch of field data sheets and procedures for forest data collection finished before he left for Russia. Now he is gone and I just have to wait for field data to be returned this summer.
I ran my first running event last week as well. A mini-marathon. Yup, 13.1 miles of pure fun (of course they miscalculated the mileage and it was actually 14.5 miles!) I have been training since Jan, although March, with time in Atlanta and my thesis deadline, little training was actually done.
The race was put on by a dorm at IWU rightnear here and cost only 5 dollars. The 5th Annual Hodson Mini-Marathon. I ran it with a friend who hadn't been training (we both decided to run it the night before) so the fact he finished was amazing. We did about 10 min miles for the first 7.4 miles. I wanted to make sure I didn't injure myself or burnout the first half. At the halfway point Jeff said he needed to walk so I decided to take off and see how fit I really was. Man, it sure feels good to pass people.
The winners finished in about 1 hr 30 minutes and I came in at about 2 hours. The clincher however is that my last mile was somewhere between 8 min and 8:30 which means I had a lot left! Full marathon here I come! It felt good to race well. I plan on running a 10 k in Maine in July, then a full marathon in Sept in Dayton OH. A couple races in between maybe as well. First, I must recover from this mini marathon. I admit I was a bit sore. Quick fact, for every mile you race, take one full day of recovery. For me that means about 7 miles of the mini was actually race pace, so in 7 days I will begin the next level of training. Subject to opinion of body at that time, may actually be 10 days.
I ran my first running event last week as well. A mini-marathon. Yup, 13.1 miles of pure fun (of course they miscalculated the mileage and it was actually 14.5 miles!) I have been training since Jan, although March, with time in Atlanta and my thesis deadline, little training was actually done.
The race was put on by a dorm at IWU rightnear here and cost only 5 dollars. The 5th Annual Hodson Mini-Marathon. I ran it with a friend who hadn't been training (we both decided to run it the night before) so the fact he finished was amazing. We did about 10 min miles for the first 7.4 miles. I wanted to make sure I didn't injure myself or burnout the first half. At the halfway point Jeff said he needed to walk so I decided to take off and see how fit I really was. Man, it sure feels good to pass people.
The winners finished in about 1 hr 30 minutes and I came in at about 2 hours. The clincher however is that my last mile was somewhere between 8 min and 8:30 which means I had a lot left! Full marathon here I come! It felt good to race well. I plan on running a 10 k in Maine in July, then a full marathon in Sept in Dayton OH. A couple races in between maybe as well. First, I must recover from this mini marathon. I admit I was a bit sore. Quick fact, for every mile you race, take one full day of recovery. For me that means about 7 miles of the mini was actually race pace, so in 7 days I will begin the next level of training. Subject to opinion of body at that time, may actually be 10 days.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Procrastinating
I am blog-surfing right now (well, I am actually posting RIGHT now). What am I supposed to be doing? Two of my least favorite things in the world: applying for jobs and grading. Someone please give me a motivational speech.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
We Are Still Here
It's been awhile since our last post. Dan's been researching/writing on urban forestry, and I've been teaching, grading, and applying for jobs for next year. We did manage to have a bunch of people over last night for grilling, talking, laughing, and a fire. Good times at our house that we'll be moving out of in a little over a month.
One quick story. I've been re-reading Lamott's Traveling Mercies for a few weeks now when I get home from school, mostly for survival reasons. Anyway, I was reading something especially poignant from her two days ago when all of a sudden I had this motherly urge to protect Lamott from my students. Yes, PROTECT her. My students have insulted and ripped apart Faulkner, Kafka, and Dillard in the past two months (and I hear them ripping on Toni Morrison from last semester), and I am perhaps a little bit sensitive at this point, especially since too high of a percentage of them don't even read the books. Now I know why a fellow English teacher told me that he's stopped teaching books he likes. Don't worry, though, I'm not at that point yet -and least I don't think so.
One quick story. I've been re-reading Lamott's Traveling Mercies for a few weeks now when I get home from school, mostly for survival reasons. Anyway, I was reading something especially poignant from her two days ago when all of a sudden I had this motherly urge to protect Lamott from my students. Yes, PROTECT her. My students have insulted and ripped apart Faulkner, Kafka, and Dillard in the past two months (and I hear them ripping on Toni Morrison from last semester), and I am perhaps a little bit sensitive at this point, especially since too high of a percentage of them don't even read the books. Now I know why a fellow English teacher told me that he's stopped teaching books he likes. Don't worry, though, I'm not at that point yet -and least I don't think so.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
The ATL
Spring break is over, but the memories live on! Dan and I spent spring break in Atlanta hanging out with Bear and Lynn and our adorable, creative, lively (and yes, loud) three nephews: Gideon, almost 3; Isaac, 18 months; Phineas, 5 weeks. Needless to say, we were never bored!
Dan and I actually felt like we were job shadowing Lynn for the first day. On the second day, Lynn trusted us so much that she let us branch out into the internship phase: we took Gideon and Isaac to the Botanical Gardens and Piedmont Park. I was amazed at how many smiles I received from adults. Having kids brings so much attention! At the park, a woman who spoke little English just pointed to Isaac and said (with a smile), "Big boy!" after he bravely through himself down the slide, laughing as he fell into the wood chips. I felt like a proud mother - but now quite ready to be a mother. Keep up the good work, Lynn and Bear!
School is back in session and going well. Today in American Lit. we read "The Story of an Hour" and had a lively discussion on love, marriage, and divorce. Classes like that make teaching so worth it!
Dan and I actually felt like we were job shadowing Lynn for the first day. On the second day, Lynn trusted us so much that she let us branch out into the internship phase: we took Gideon and Isaac to the Botanical Gardens and Piedmont Park. I was amazed at how many smiles I received from adults. Having kids brings so much attention! At the park, a woman who spoke little English just pointed to Isaac and said (with a smile), "Big boy!" after he bravely through himself down the slide, laughing as he fell into the wood chips. I felt like a proud mother - but now quite ready to be a mother. Keep up the good work, Lynn and Bear!
School is back in session and going well. Today in American Lit. we read "The Story of an Hour" and had a lively discussion on love, marriage, and divorce. Classes like that make teaching so worth it!
Friday, March 24, 2006
The amazing chip . . . .
The size of the chip becomes apparent alongside a human hair
The first computer circuit to be built on a single molecule has been unveiled by researchers in the US.
Started reading BBC in the morning to keep up on the world. So interesting . . .Nano Chip
The first computer circuit to be built on a single molecule has been unveiled by researchers in the US.
Started reading BBC in the morning to keep up on the world. So interesting . . .Nano Chip
Thursday, March 23, 2006
ONE MORE DAY!!!
One more school day till spring break! Tomorrow we are playing word games and I'm introducing the bowl game (using literary characters and current events people) to a few of my classes. Should be fun! Yes, I do have educational objectives for what I'm doing in case any fellow educators are reading this.
Dan and I are heading to Atlanta, GA, next Tuesday to see Bear and Lynn and our three adorable nephews (ages 2,1, and infant). We are hoping to tent in the backyard. We are going to a huge aquarium there too! I'm excited!
Dan and I are heading to Atlanta, GA, next Tuesday to see Bear and Lynn and our three adorable nephews (ages 2,1, and infant). We are hoping to tent in the backyard. We are going to a huge aquarium there too! I'm excited!
Monday, March 13, 2006
My life: Julie, school, and running
Well folks,
That about sums it up, each one very enjoyable and trying at times. I wanted to talk about the running aspect of my life today. I have been exercising my ability to ignore pain and latic acid for the past four weeks. My running consist of about 6 days of running;equalling 18-20 miles a week (soon to progress to 30-40 after my forth week mark), 1 full day a week of rest,and 2 days of endurance weight lifting. I feel as though I am back in High School getting ready for the soccer season or track season. The difference is that I am entirely self coached, although 8 books on running from the library and the WWW have taught me plenty. My favorite read has been "The Scientific Runners Book." Yup, full of regression lines, charts, and all the technical stuff that goes on in a runners body. It would make an interesting thesis project to compare running programs and body types.
Julie and I went to a specialty running shoe store this weekend, 3Riversrunning
Here, I had my gait video taped and my feet fitted for specific running shoes based on my running style and body type. It was awesome, to learn how much energy and thought people have spent in learning how to run more efficiently and with greater ease. Not to mention most of the people in the store were hardcore runners and interesting to talk with.
I will post my training schedule some time, but I hope to compete in some 20k's and maybe a mini-marthon this summer.
I ran 8, 400 meters, with 220 m jog period b/t, for a speed work out today. It hurt.
Well, must go home now and make dinner and talk a walk with Julie.
Any other wanna be runners out there?
That about sums it up, each one very enjoyable and trying at times. I wanted to talk about the running aspect of my life today. I have been exercising my ability to ignore pain and latic acid for the past four weeks. My running consist of about 6 days of running;equalling 18-20 miles a week (soon to progress to 30-40 after my forth week mark), 1 full day a week of rest,and 2 days of endurance weight lifting. I feel as though I am back in High School getting ready for the soccer season or track season. The difference is that I am entirely self coached, although 8 books on running from the library and the WWW have taught me plenty. My favorite read has been "The Scientific Runners Book." Yup, full of regression lines, charts, and all the technical stuff that goes on in a runners body. It would make an interesting thesis project to compare running programs and body types.
Julie and I went to a specialty running shoe store this weekend, 3Riversrunning
Here, I had my gait video taped and my feet fitted for specific running shoes based on my running style and body type. It was awesome, to learn how much energy and thought people have spent in learning how to run more efficiently and with greater ease. Not to mention most of the people in the store were hardcore runners and interesting to talk with.
I will post my training schedule some time, but I hope to compete in some 20k's and maybe a mini-marthon this summer.
I ran 8, 400 meters, with 220 m jog period b/t, for a speed work out today. It hurt.
Well, must go home now and make dinner and talk a walk with Julie.
Any other wanna be runners out there?
Saturday, March 11, 2006
I Could Teach Anywhere!
I keep getting emails about teaching positions that I can't apply for. I've dealt with this quite well until I got emails regarding schools in Saipan and Cambodia. I know it wouldn't be easy teaching in foreign countries (in part because I've taught some in a foreign country), but I really want to go back to southeast Asia, and I've never been to Saipan or Cambodia! And I could teach in Christian schools! I have really liked teaching in the public school system, but I am definitely interested in being able to teach explicitly from a Christian perspective.
I am not bitter about this though. I am very excited for Dan to continue in his master's program, especially as more and more things fall into place for this thesis and as I continue to learn the Latin names for trees and plants from my very nerdy husband. :)
Who knows? Maybe I will be in graduate school in a year or two!
I am not bitter about this though. I am very excited for Dan to continue in his master's program, especially as more and more things fall into place for this thesis and as I continue to learn the Latin names for trees and plants from my very nerdy husband. :)
Who knows? Maybe I will be in graduate school in a year or two!
Saturday, March 04, 2006
My Life=School
I like teaching. I am tired of grading. Especially grading advanced composition papers that HAVE NOT BEEN PROOFREAD. Not proofreading should be illegal.
Last week I held American Literature class in the computer lab so they could work on their Groupthink essays. I was helping one student when another student asked me to get his paper from the printer. Naturally, I told him to get it himself. He assured me that I should get it. Another student got it and brought it to me: It was a picture of my dad and me walking down the aisle on my wedding day! They had found the website that Bear set up with Dan and my wedding pictures! It was actually really funny. :) However, I am now fearful that my students could be reading my blog. If you are a student of mine and reading my blog, STOP OR I'LL FORCE YOU TO SING EMILY DICKINSON'S POEMS TO THE TUNE OF AMAZING GRACE IN FRONT OF THE WHOLE CLASS.
I took the Praxis 2 test today. I appreciate that Iowa does not force its teachers to take standardized tests. Unfortunately, I'm teaching in Indiana and they do require it.
On another note, I talked to Laura Groen, Liz McPherson, Susan Hoebeke, and my brother this week on the phone. Groovy!
Last week I held American Literature class in the computer lab so they could work on their Groupthink essays. I was helping one student when another student asked me to get his paper from the printer. Naturally, I told him to get it himself. He assured me that I should get it. Another student got it and brought it to me: It was a picture of my dad and me walking down the aisle on my wedding day! They had found the website that Bear set up with Dan and my wedding pictures! It was actually really funny. :) However, I am now fearful that my students could be reading my blog. If you are a student of mine and reading my blog, STOP OR I'LL FORCE YOU TO SING EMILY DICKINSON'S POEMS TO THE TUNE OF AMAZING GRACE IN FRONT OF THE WHOLE CLASS.
I took the Praxis 2 test today. I appreciate that Iowa does not force its teachers to take standardized tests. Unfortunately, I'm teaching in Indiana and they do require it.
On another note, I talked to Laura Groen, Liz McPherson, Susan Hoebeke, and my brother this week on the phone. Groovy!
Friday, February 24, 2006
MoundsTrip 026
The end of winter is near and spring is arriving, or are they alien egg shells? Located right here in Indiana.
Monday, February 20, 2006
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Olympics and Crying
Did anyone see Lindsey Jacobellis take that fall last night during the snowboard cross? I felt so awful for her! Dan and I are watching short track right now. I love the Olympics! I always feel inspired to work out and eat really healthy after watching the Olympics, but then our neighbor brings over cheesecake with strawberries and chocolate coconut pie, and I forget all about those goals. :)
This past week was a hard week but good. Quick story that some of you have heard. Friday I kicked a student out of class for calling another student a "buttf*%@". Seems normal, right? Apparently not. Monday I found out this student's father was very upset with me for kicking his son out of class, and this same student ended up being EXTREMELY disrespectful, which, in the class he's in, has a snowball effect. He spent the class in the hallway, but the rest of the class period (the last one of the day) was awful.
I went to talk to the vice principal right after school, and right when I got a chance to talk to him, two of the other English teachers asked to see me. I met with the principal first, explaining my situation and getting worked up. He's met with me a lot because of on accoutn of the two remedial classes, so I didn't understand why he was rushing me and ushering me out of his office. I kept explaining my situation and started crying when I found myself outside one of the classrooms where all the teachers were waiting for me - they were throwing a surprise welcoming party for me and the other new teacher! And I was standing outside the door crying - my first time crying at school. Of course, everyone was very understanding and many told me about their own experiences of stressful school days. I actually wasn't that embarrassed in the end. I work with a really supportive staff, thankfully! In fact, the party included opening gifts from all the teachers - I won't need to buy paperclips or white out for a LONG time. :)
This past week was a hard week but good. Quick story that some of you have heard. Friday I kicked a student out of class for calling another student a "buttf*%@". Seems normal, right? Apparently not. Monday I found out this student's father was very upset with me for kicking his son out of class, and this same student ended up being EXTREMELY disrespectful, which, in the class he's in, has a snowball effect. He spent the class in the hallway, but the rest of the class period (the last one of the day) was awful.
I went to talk to the vice principal right after school, and right when I got a chance to talk to him, two of the other English teachers asked to see me. I met with the principal first, explaining my situation and getting worked up. He's met with me a lot because of on accoutn of the two remedial classes, so I didn't understand why he was rushing me and ushering me out of his office. I kept explaining my situation and started crying when I found myself outside one of the classrooms where all the teachers were waiting for me - they were throwing a surprise welcoming party for me and the other new teacher! And I was standing outside the door crying - my first time crying at school. Of course, everyone was very understanding and many told me about their own experiences of stressful school days. I actually wasn't that embarrassed in the end. I work with a really supportive staff, thankfully! In fact, the party included opening gifts from all the teachers - I won't need to buy paperclips or white out for a LONG time. :)
Monday, February 13, 2006
A World record . . .
Friday night. A day and a half of mass produced food at Calvin College = gas discomfort. Relieved by doing Yoga stretches.
Saturday night. On the road home to Upland and gas discomfort returns after a roast beef asaigo cheese sandwisch and Queso Fiesta Soup for dinner, at Panera Bread.
Saturday late night. Eat yogurt with 6 active cultures to try buffering the cramping and alcer like feeling growing in and around my 6-pack stomach (training for a marathon induced). Heating pad added to ease pain. Doesn't work.
It is 2am and after trying to sleep with growing pain and discomfort I find myself bent over double, whispering sweet profanties all the while.
It seems a small evil gerbil has decided to reside in my stomach. Giant fork in hand that is used to roll my spaghetti stomach lining onto it before eating. Gerbil must be Italian.
One realizes that an emergency plan of action is useful-knowing where the nearest open hospital is- when trying to decide to go or not to go. Figure a dead husband isn't worth it, nor the continued flow of profanties thinks Julie.
A friend drives Julie and I to Hartford City ER room and I am admitted. My first ER visit and their only patient in this small town hospital.
Standard paper work, questions between gasps of pain. Very preganant nurse tending to my needs, what if she goes into labor? Secondly, what state am I in to answer all these diagnosis questions? I could be loopy and not in my right mind and forget to mention some allergy or key information (oh ya, never did mention I am on malaria medication!) What if the evil gerbil was giving answers?
Two IV's put into my veins, heart monitor, and saline water added.
Do I want pain medicine? Yes, please. Morphine? Never had it. Let's try a little.
Apparently, after thrashing around in agony and a large drop in blood pressure and nearly passing out they concluded I am allergic to morphine (Julie, was out of the room at this point as not to have to witness this scene).
After returning to reality,"Want a different pain med?" "No, rather deal with the pain," says Dan.
10 minutes goes by. Pain med please. Administered by shoot and it helps a little.
Bloodwork, internal bleeding check (ya, you know what that involved), and Catscan.
Wait for results, Wait for results, try to sleep.
Watch Olympics I think.
Oh, try an pee into jar.
7:15am, pain seems to be gone, completely. Except I need to pee really bad.
Proceed to empty 42 oz of liquid. World's longest pee and elasta bladder recorded.
Results back. Not the appendix, not a pendicitis, but you have an enlarged liver, but everything else looks fine. Don't know what to diagnois, but given your travel outside the country it may be a parasite of some kind. Antibiotic prescribed and come back if this happens again.
All and all not a bad evening.
One Miracle and a world record.
Saturday night. On the road home to Upland and gas discomfort returns after a roast beef asaigo cheese sandwisch and Queso Fiesta Soup for dinner, at Panera Bread.
Saturday late night. Eat yogurt with 6 active cultures to try buffering the cramping and alcer like feeling growing in and around my 6-pack stomach (training for a marathon induced). Heating pad added to ease pain. Doesn't work.
It is 2am and after trying to sleep with growing pain and discomfort I find myself bent over double, whispering sweet profanties all the while.
It seems a small evil gerbil has decided to reside in my stomach. Giant fork in hand that is used to roll my spaghetti stomach lining onto it before eating. Gerbil must be Italian.
One realizes that an emergency plan of action is useful-knowing where the nearest open hospital is- when trying to decide to go or not to go. Figure a dead husband isn't worth it, nor the continued flow of profanties thinks Julie.
A friend drives Julie and I to Hartford City ER room and I am admitted. My first ER visit and their only patient in this small town hospital.
Standard paper work, questions between gasps of pain. Very preganant nurse tending to my needs, what if she goes into labor? Secondly, what state am I in to answer all these diagnosis questions? I could be loopy and not in my right mind and forget to mention some allergy or key information (oh ya, never did mention I am on malaria medication!) What if the evil gerbil was giving answers?
Two IV's put into my veins, heart monitor, and saline water added.
Do I want pain medicine? Yes, please. Morphine? Never had it. Let's try a little.
Apparently, after thrashing around in agony and a large drop in blood pressure and nearly passing out they concluded I am allergic to morphine (Julie, was out of the room at this point as not to have to witness this scene).
After returning to reality,"Want a different pain med?" "No, rather deal with the pain," says Dan.
10 minutes goes by. Pain med please. Administered by shoot and it helps a little.
Bloodwork, internal bleeding check (ya, you know what that involved), and Catscan.
Wait for results, Wait for results, try to sleep.
Watch Olympics I think.
Oh, try an pee into jar.
7:15am, pain seems to be gone, completely. Except I need to pee really bad.
Proceed to empty 42 oz of liquid. World's longest pee and elasta bladder recorded.
Results back. Not the appendix, not a pendicitis, but you have an enlarged liver, but everything else looks fine. Don't know what to diagnois, but given your travel outside the country it may be a parasite of some kind. Antibiotic prescribed and come back if this happens again.
All and all not a bad evening.
One Miracle and a world record.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Snowy Saturday
I woke up this morning, pulled open the shades, and blurrily saw (I hadn't yet put my glasses on) wet, baby snowflakes! Beautiful.
Dan is in Michigan at a development conference at Calvin College. He's been gone since Thursday, and I barely missed him this time. I know that sounds bad, but it's not meant to. It only reflects how busy I am with school and how leaving your wife for three weeks during an extremely stressful time of life may lead to a lack of missing in the future. I'm looking forward to seeing him tonight though.
I have again spent most of this Saturday doing school work. I start a new unit in Advanced Composition and a new unit in AP on Monday. In AP we're going to be reading Faulkner's As I Lay Dying, which I'm reading for the first time. It's harder to teach a novel I've never read before, especially a novel by Faulkner.
I find that now that I'm a teacher, whenever I read anything (National Geographic, Atlantic Monthly, the back of the cereal box), I automatically start thinking: How can I use this in the classroom? This thought process has led to some interesting discoveries, but it also makes it difficult to ever read SOLELY for enjoyment. I'm not complaining. I'm just sharing what's happening in the ole brain.
This week I asked for a student to be permantely removed from one of my classes. He had a 0%, had been kicked out of class several times, and had an extremely disrespectful attitude towards me and his classmates. Two students in other classes dropped out (I guess these are two students who do this every semester). Another of my students is being recommended for expulsion. This makes me sad. Of course, these students are a very small percentage of the whole, but it still saddens me. What are they going to do with their lives? On a positive note, I set up an extra credit assignment for my AP class that involves reading and responding to essays by people such as Wendell Berry and Barbara Kingsolver, and one student is reading Wendell this weekend for his first time! Yippie!
Dan is in Michigan at a development conference at Calvin College. He's been gone since Thursday, and I barely missed him this time. I know that sounds bad, but it's not meant to. It only reflects how busy I am with school and how leaving your wife for three weeks during an extremely stressful time of life may lead to a lack of missing in the future. I'm looking forward to seeing him tonight though.
I have again spent most of this Saturday doing school work. I start a new unit in Advanced Composition and a new unit in AP on Monday. In AP we're going to be reading Faulkner's As I Lay Dying, which I'm reading for the first time. It's harder to teach a novel I've never read before, especially a novel by Faulkner.
I find that now that I'm a teacher, whenever I read anything (National Geographic, Atlantic Monthly, the back of the cereal box), I automatically start thinking: How can I use this in the classroom? This thought process has led to some interesting discoveries, but it also makes it difficult to ever read SOLELY for enjoyment. I'm not complaining. I'm just sharing what's happening in the ole brain.
This week I asked for a student to be permantely removed from one of my classes. He had a 0%, had been kicked out of class several times, and had an extremely disrespectful attitude towards me and his classmates. Two students in other classes dropped out (I guess these are two students who do this every semester). Another of my students is being recommended for expulsion. This makes me sad. Of course, these students are a very small percentage of the whole, but it still saddens me. What are they going to do with their lives? On a positive note, I set up an extra credit assignment for my AP class that involves reading and responding to essays by people such as Wendell Berry and Barbara Kingsolver, and one student is reading Wendell this weekend for his first time! Yippie!
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Unwell but Alive
I had a headache all day today. Fortunately, I didn't have to teach because the English department was discussing curriculum and standards all day, which was actually quite interesting but not helpful for my headache.
Midterms go out this week. From all my classes, I have 11 students who are failing, which is around 10%. It could be MUCH worse. But I will work on that 10%! That means 90% are passing!
I read Romans 15: ? last night, a verse about trust, hope, and joy. I wish I could remember it because it was necessary for my survival to get up this morning. I'll look it up and post it another day.
Midterms go out this week. From all my classes, I have 11 students who are failing, which is around 10%. It could be MUCH worse. But I will work on that 10%! That means 90% are passing!
I read Romans 15: ? last night, a verse about trust, hope, and joy. I wish I could remember it because it was necessary for my survival to get up this morning. I'll look it up and post it another day.
Word and Plant of the Day
Any one guess the common name of this plant?
Physocarpus opulifolius is the Latin.
Physocarpus opulifolius is the Latin.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Five Phases of Coffee from plant to grind
Not M and M's the real bean ripe from the plant all the way to grind
Monday, January 30, 2006
Sunday, January 29, 2006
I Like Teaching
At least I did this week. I am starting to get to the know the students, and they are getting to know me, which helps a lot. This week for American Literature, I dressed up as Jonathan Edwards and delivered "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God." It was great fun! I got a call from the office (planned of course) and left the room, then proceeded to dress up in a black robe, collar, and white wig, and came back to the room spouting off about an unrepentant class I'd heard about. After the sermon and some questions, I left and changed and came back as Mrs. Perkins, acting very disappointed that I'd missed Edwards' appearance. :) The students really seemed to like it! One girl at church today told me that "everyone was talking about it". Bottom line, I feel really comfortable at Eastbrook and like I can be my weird self.
I have found grading to be very challenging, at least for the AP class. I am trying to prepare them for the AP test and be fair/consistent in my grading, which, of course, causes me a lot of stress. A parent at church this morning told me that her son told her that he wants to do well in AP because he wants to please me because I'm making the class challenging. I almost broke down and cried because it was so encouraging, and you just don't hear it from your students. After spending all day yesterday grading AP essays, I am thankful that God knows when I need to hear an encouraging word!
One more thing - I only had to kick one student out of class last week!
And of course, Dan is finally home. We went out on a date to Olive Garden Friday night, and we went running together Saturday morning. It is nice to have his presence around the house and in my life again. (And he's been cooking and doing the dishes - what more could a girl want?)
I am trying to focus on the positive, if you can't tell. Praise God for his faithfulness.
I have found grading to be very challenging, at least for the AP class. I am trying to prepare them for the AP test and be fair/consistent in my grading, which, of course, causes me a lot of stress. A parent at church this morning told me that her son told her that he wants to do well in AP because he wants to please me because I'm making the class challenging. I almost broke down and cried because it was so encouraging, and you just don't hear it from your students. After spending all day yesterday grading AP essays, I am thankful that God knows when I need to hear an encouraging word!
One more thing - I only had to kick one student out of class last week!
And of course, Dan is finally home. We went out on a date to Olive Garden Friday night, and we went running together Saturday morning. It is nice to have his presence around the house and in my life again. (And he's been cooking and doing the dishes - what more could a girl want?)
I am trying to focus on the positive, if you can't tell. Praise God for his faithfulness.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Visit for more pictures and a couple summary letters
Click below depending on your interest to learn more about my recent service learning trip to Guatemala.
Written updates
More Photos of Trip
Written updates
More Photos of Trip
Me and Rosemary my new girl
Click here to see more pictures o my latest trip to Guatemala http://www.flickr.com/photos/76587420@N00/
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Back from the subtropics
I am back in country. The trip to Guatemala urged me to move forward in so many ways:
1. Short term missions do have value!
2. Understanding the Global Body of Christ
3. Realizing the Complexity of Transformational Development
4. We got it good in the states, to good.
5. Appropriate Technology in context of Guatemala
6. Mayan cultural understanding
7. Great need to be a global citizen and an engaged citizen of the world
I got back late last night and plan on posting pictures soon and the like, but wanted to let people know that I was alive and well. I grew a nice mustache while there so look forward to that picture. Now I have to catch up on people's blogs and the like. I will write more stories later. God is good and faithful.
Dan P
The picture is of Margeretto and I in a cistern that our team constructed during our second week. 3m deep by 1 m wide all by hand! 1,500 gallons of pure storage!
1. Short term missions do have value!
2. Understanding the Global Body of Christ
3. Realizing the Complexity of Transformational Development
4. We got it good in the states, to good.
5. Appropriate Technology in context of Guatemala
6. Mayan cultural understanding
7. Great need to be a global citizen and an engaged citizen of the world
I got back late last night and plan on posting pictures soon and the like, but wanted to let people know that I was alive and well. I grew a nice mustache while there so look forward to that picture. Now I have to catch up on people's blogs and the like. I will write more stories later. God is good and faithful.
Dan P
The picture is of Margeretto and I in a cistern that our team constructed during our second week. 3m deep by 1 m wide all by hand! 1,500 gallons of pure storage!
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
It May Be Awhile
till you hear from me again on the blog. I've been staying with a family that has Internet at their house, and I've been taking advantage of it. Tonight I return to my home, and Dan returns as well! Yippie!
I had to write four referrals today (2 for leaving class early and 2 for throwing mousepads/horseplay), and we had a "discussion" on racism today in seventh period. This occurred after one student said, "There was a bunch of Black kids at school today," and another student responded, "They're gonna get the crap kicked out of them," to which I responded, "That is not an appropriate comment for school!" to which my students responded my telling me how they called them "crackers" so someone at our school called them "the n-word" (they made a good choice in NOT saying that word in class). The Black students are from a different school. Apparently there was almost a fight today. Anyway our discussion revolved around what constitutes a racist comment and a racist attitude. My students says, "We're from a hick school!" as if that justifies a racist attitude. Frustrating.
I had to write four referrals today (2 for leaving class early and 2 for throwing mousepads/horseplay), and we had a "discussion" on racism today in seventh period. This occurred after one student said, "There was a bunch of Black kids at school today," and another student responded, "They're gonna get the crap kicked out of them," to which I responded, "That is not an appropriate comment for school!" to which my students responded my telling me how they called them "crackers" so someone at our school called them "the n-word" (they made a good choice in NOT saying that word in class). The Black students are from a different school. Apparently there was almost a fight today. Anyway our discussion revolved around what constitutes a racist comment and a racist attitude. My students says, "We're from a hick school!" as if that justifies a racist attitude. Frustrating.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Tired Monday
But I made it through. I did not sleep well last night, so I was a little yawny today. Also, my Advanced Composition students informed me that today is the most depressing day of the year. Apparently there are more suicides today than any other day. And guess what we were doing? Grammar. I gave them the little "fundamentals" speech, relating it to Hoosiers, and some of them got it. I'm going to show that clip later this week. :)
My language arts classes were a lot better today. One student (who's continuing the class from last semester) asked me if Mrs. Goble was coming back because she was so nice. I said, "No, I'm here all semester, so you probably want to pass this class as soon as possible." He said, "But I like this class. You're cool!" Unbelievable. I have handed out more referrals in that class than I thought possible. I met another teacher today who does ISTEP remediation, and she told me that she heard from her students that I was strict. She was very proud of me. :)
A fellow teacher brought me a card this morning saying she'd been praying for me all weekend, and she wrote some verses and part of hymn out for me. I felt so thankful I almost cried. God is faithful.
DAN COMES HOME IN ONE MORE SLEEP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My language arts classes were a lot better today. One student (who's continuing the class from last semester) asked me if Mrs. Goble was coming back because she was so nice. I said, "No, I'm here all semester, so you probably want to pass this class as soon as possible." He said, "But I like this class. You're cool!" Unbelievable. I have handed out more referrals in that class than I thought possible. I met another teacher today who does ISTEP remediation, and she told me that she heard from her students that I was strict. She was very proud of me. :)
A fellow teacher brought me a card this morning saying she'd been praying for me all weekend, and she wrote some verses and part of hymn out for me. I felt so thankful I almost cried. God is faithful.
DAN COMES HOME IN ONE MORE SLEEP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Working Saturday
Today I graded 21 imitation essays from AP English in which they imitated the style of chapter 1 in The Things They Carried. Some were really good, others not so much. I've been avoiding these essays since Monday, and when I finished them today, I had that same glorious feeling of finishing a massive college writing assignment. I then graded 13 in-class essays from Advanced Comp. on the most disgusting thing ever. Those were pretty funny, except for one which was more like a scene out of a horror movie. Then I spent time planning for my next unit in AP. I am definitely ready to be finished with school work for the rest of the weekend.
Dan is (according to his schedule) in Tikal this weekend, which I believe are Mayan ruins. He's been there before, but I'm sure he'll enjoy it the second time around. From his email earlier this week, he is ready to come home. I agree.
Dan is (according to his schedule) in Tikal this weekend, which I believe are Mayan ruins. He's been there before, but I'm sure he'll enjoy it the second time around. From his email earlier this week, he is ready to come home. I agree.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Almost the Weekend
I have never appreciated the end of the school week quite like I do these days. I am so tired by the end of the week! Teaching takes a lot out of you, but I'm really starting to enjoy it. One story:
Last week I had a student who was coming across as arrogant, in my opinion. So I emailed and talked to some people to get some ideas, and I ended up asking this student to talk with me on Monday. He was already finished with his reading and other work in the class, whereas most of the rest of the class was not. I asked him if he liked reading, and he said he didn't; he was in the class for college credit and to become a better writer. I told him he could take other work to class during worktime, or that he could read the book I'd brought him, The Life of Pi. He took the book.
The next day after class he gave me the book back, and I figured he had decided not to read it. Wrong. He not only read the book (in one night) but also wrote a three page paper exploring the ideas of postmodernism and religion in literature. We talked for a few minutes after class, and things have been much better. Two other students have asked for the book. The crazy thing is that I received the AP English catalog in my mailbox the next day, and guess what one of the books on the cover was??? That's right, The Life of Pi. I'm not trying to toot my own horn here, but if I only shared the hard stuff about teaching, Katy Dekens might go into a different profession. :)
Last week I had a student who was coming across as arrogant, in my opinion. So I emailed and talked to some people to get some ideas, and I ended up asking this student to talk with me on Monday. He was already finished with his reading and other work in the class, whereas most of the rest of the class was not. I asked him if he liked reading, and he said he didn't; he was in the class for college credit and to become a better writer. I told him he could take other work to class during worktime, or that he could read the book I'd brought him, The Life of Pi. He took the book.
The next day after class he gave me the book back, and I figured he had decided not to read it. Wrong. He not only read the book (in one night) but also wrote a three page paper exploring the ideas of postmodernism and religion in literature. We talked for a few minutes after class, and things have been much better. Two other students have asked for the book. The crazy thing is that I received the AP English catalog in my mailbox the next day, and guess what one of the books on the cover was??? That's right, The Life of Pi. I'm not trying to toot my own horn here, but if I only shared the hard stuff about teaching, Katy Dekens might go into a different profession. :)
Sunday, January 15, 2006
On Dan's Behalf
Dan called me yesterday! I came home from babysitting in the morning (I was gone for 2 hours), and there was a message from Dan. After realizing I had missed my chance to talk to Dan, I had a momentary breakdown which including weeping on the stairs, but I had only had 5 hours of sleep and some yogurt (and it was 1 pm), so I think there were some physiological factors involved as well. Anyway, Dan called back later in the evening, and we talked for 10 minutes, which was WONDERFUL!!!!!
He is doing well. They are in Antigua now, and they start building a cistern tomorrow. This past week they were in the mountains, and they drilled a well for a village that had been without a nearby water source since Hurricane Stan last October. The locals received them warmly and helped with some of the work. Please pray for Dan as he continues to try to be bold in using his Spanish and reaching out with the message of Christ.
After 9 more sleeps, Dan and I will be re-united! This Wednesday I move in with the Guebert family (from where I'm blogging right now), while Carolyn (the wife of Mike, who's leading the team) and her youngest son go to Guatemala. I will be with the three older kids: Alyssa, a senior; Emily, a freshman; and Davis, a seventh grader. They are very cool and mature and fun to be around. Sammy, unfortunately, will be on his own for the most of the week, but I'm going to try to play with him every day.
He is doing well. They are in Antigua now, and they start building a cistern tomorrow. This past week they were in the mountains, and they drilled a well for a village that had been without a nearby water source since Hurricane Stan last October. The locals received them warmly and helped with some of the work. Please pray for Dan as he continues to try to be bold in using his Spanish and reaching out with the message of Christ.
After 9 more sleeps, Dan and I will be re-united! This Wednesday I move in with the Guebert family (from where I'm blogging right now), while Carolyn (the wife of Mike, who's leading the team) and her youngest son go to Guatemala. I will be with the three older kids: Alyssa, a senior; Emily, a freshman; and Davis, a seventh grader. They are very cool and mature and fun to be around. Sammy, unfortunately, will be on his own for the most of the week, but I'm going to try to play with him every day.
Friday, January 13, 2006
Still Here
I apologize for the long gap in between posts, but I have never been so busy and emotionally drained in my life. Yes, I have made it through my first week of teaching and my 9th day of Dan's absence. As far as I know, Dan is safe and sound in Guatemala, drilling wells. As far as I know, I am safe and sound here in Upland, surviving teaching.
Here's a brief rundown of my classes:
1st period - Language Arts - 20 high schoolers retaking English, mostly boys. These kids sort of listen and they get work done. This is my third favorite class to teach.
2nd period - PREP!
3rd period - AP English - 21 intelligent, creative students, including a few who think quite highly of themselves. I'm encountering the "arrogant" student for the first time. We're reading The Things They Carried and other war/violence related stories.
4th period - Academic Am. Lit. - I really like this class. We're reading The Scarlet Letter. These kids are so well-behaved that they ask me before sharpening their pencils. This may sound normal to some of you, but it's not.
5th period - Workplace Communications - I team teach this with a business teacher. I don't have any planning for this class, but I do have some of the same students from Language Arts. That's okay. We've been playing getting to know you games.
6th period - Advanced Composition - I really like this class too. There's only 14 students, and we sit in a circle and discuss writing, and they write too, of course. They are starting on their first composition, describing a person/place. There's more too it, but this is definitely my favorite class to teach.
7th period - Language Arts - I'm in a classroom with 21 of the students whose names most frequently come up in the faculty lounge, and not for good reasons. Some problems I've encountered with these students this week (and for which they got kicked out) included a student kicking another "in the balls", a student calling another a "f*&*%r", a student beating up his computer, and other odds and ends. This class is still out-of-control, but I'm working on it.
Then I stay at school for a few more hours and plan and grade. It's great fun. And I get paid $55 a day until I get my Indiana license, at which point I get retropaid for the work I've done. What a mess.
So basically I'm learning to depend on God more than ever before in my life. Everyday I read the passage from 1 Cor. about love, and everyday I ask for the Holy Spirit to help me love and teach these kids. I also daily read "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" to my students. Just kidding. They wouldn't get it anyway. Oops, that cynicism is kicking in! In all reality, I am doing okay and I have a great support system here in Upland, IN. I have been out with people or at their houses every night this week; in fact, I'm writing this from my friend's Eric and Loretta's apartment because I can't access my blog at school and we don't have Internet at home.
Okay, I'm finished.
Here's a brief rundown of my classes:
1st period - Language Arts - 20 high schoolers retaking English, mostly boys. These kids sort of listen and they get work done. This is my third favorite class to teach.
2nd period - PREP!
3rd period - AP English - 21 intelligent, creative students, including a few who think quite highly of themselves. I'm encountering the "arrogant" student for the first time. We're reading The Things They Carried and other war/violence related stories.
4th period - Academic Am. Lit. - I really like this class. We're reading The Scarlet Letter. These kids are so well-behaved that they ask me before sharpening their pencils. This may sound normal to some of you, but it's not.
5th period - Workplace Communications - I team teach this with a business teacher. I don't have any planning for this class, but I do have some of the same students from Language Arts. That's okay. We've been playing getting to know you games.
6th period - Advanced Composition - I really like this class too. There's only 14 students, and we sit in a circle and discuss writing, and they write too, of course. They are starting on their first composition, describing a person/place. There's more too it, but this is definitely my favorite class to teach.
7th period - Language Arts - I'm in a classroom with 21 of the students whose names most frequently come up in the faculty lounge, and not for good reasons. Some problems I've encountered with these students this week (and for which they got kicked out) included a student kicking another "in the balls", a student calling another a "f*&*%r", a student beating up his computer, and other odds and ends. This class is still out-of-control, but I'm working on it.
Then I stay at school for a few more hours and plan and grade. It's great fun. And I get paid $55 a day until I get my Indiana license, at which point I get retropaid for the work I've done. What a mess.
So basically I'm learning to depend on God more than ever before in my life. Everyday I read the passage from 1 Cor. about love, and everyday I ask for the Holy Spirit to help me love and teach these kids. I also daily read "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" to my students. Just kidding. They wouldn't get it anyway. Oops, that cynicism is kicking in! In all reality, I am doing okay and I have a great support system here in Upland, IN. I have been out with people or at their houses every night this week; in fact, I'm writing this from my friend's Eric and Loretta's apartment because I can't access my blog at school and we don't have Internet at home.
Okay, I'm finished.
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