Currently listening to: Rent Soundtrack
Track on repeat: Track 16- Finale B
Temperature in da city: 50s
Temperature in da wood, MN: 15 with a windchill of 1
Movie Extravaganza
One of the biggest things that I've missed about being back in MN is watching movies. Not that I can't watch movies back in da Bay! If ya'll know Doh and MnM, you know that we are HUGE movie fans AND that we are opening day watchers. Yes, we love to watch movies the first day that they come out...it's just what we do. We were right there with the Star Wars geeks to watch the midnight showing of Episode III: Revenge of the Sith; for the last Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, we were at the first showing...and we basically had the theater to ourselves! Plus, it's not just the major blockbusters that we crave to watch before everyone else does, it's the lil' corny romantic comedies like 50 First Dates that we will head to the theater for. Again, it's just what we do. Hahaha..what else is there to do in Minnesota?!
During my short stay here in MN, we have definitely had our fill of movies...just our way of making up for lost time. In any case, here's a list of movies we have seen either in the theater (*) or at home on dvd (-):
* Rent
* Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
- The Polar Express
- Batman Begins
* Pride and Prejudice
- What Dreams May Come
There's a whole bunch of movies that I'm really looking forward to watching in the upcoming month, the one at the top of my list is currently "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe: The Chronicles of Narnia." I'm almost jealous because the 4th graders at school are planning a field trip to watch it. 'Tis funny because it wasn't until about a couple of years ago that I found out that the book has a lot of Christian symbolism. We did watch the cartoon version of the book a couple of years ago, but if you've seen the trailer for the upcoming movie, it looks really good! You can bet that I'll be in the theaters, although not on opening day, to watch it- stay tuned!
Back in Da Bay
My Thanksgiving holiday in MN passed rather quickly. There were so many things going on. It was a happy-sad-happy time to be back...happy to be back in my house and to see hubby...sad to have to attend a funeral, yet happy that Tita Beth is no longer suffering and confident that she is in a better place. On the day that I left, it snowed and it was just so gosh darned cold! Because of the weather, I got to the airport early, but it turned out that because of snow, hella flights were delayed. I was originally supposed to fly back in da city by 10:30pm timeframe...instead, we landed a little past midnight. By the time I got my luggage and got picked up, it was past 1am...and yes, I had to go to class the next day! Ugh! Let's just say that while I was physically there, mentally, I was still stuck in freezing Minnesota. I swear, I felt that whatever people were telling me was going in one ear and going out the other...after five minutes, I will have totally forgotten what we talked about! Aiya!
Since I've been back, it's been nothing but Christmas practice after Christmas practice. To be quite honest, I really can't wait until the whole program is over! That day is quickly approaching- our show is on Monday, Dec. 5th. Are we ready? Are we set? Ha! Yah right! But I am a firm believer that everything will fall into place on the day of the show...and if not, well, the show must go on! The elevated stress level of all the teachers is quite apparent...people tearing out their hair, bags forming under the eyes, tolerance level of uncooperative kids running low, everything taking a physical, mental, and even emotional toll on everyone. It's not supposed to be this stressful! With all the pressure to have everything prepared, there's always that risk of losing the spirit of WHY we are having these Christmas programs in the first place. I sympathize with the students...I really do! Not only are they memorizing songs, hand motions, cues of when to go on/off stage, lines, etc, but the whole standing, sitting, standing, sitting can be very tiresome. Again, while us teachers are trying to get them organized and attentive, there's the risk of having the students NOT excited about the show. I think the kids are looking forward to the end of all the practices just as the teachers. Probably even moreso. Just a quick example of the physical toll it takes on the kids, I learned that a 4th grader fainted today! Fainted! The poor kid probably locked his/her knees and with the brightness of the stage lights and the stuffiness of being up there alongside 100 other kids, it was too much. I heard the kid met the floor with his face...literally. Ouch! Well, for his and all of our sake, it'll all be over next week. Counting the days...
"Lilipad ng Bubong!"
Okay, I don't know if I spelled that correctly, but those are the words that came out of my mom's mouth during dinner. "Lilipad" means flying or flew...so my first question to my mom's shocked response was, "What flew?! What's bubong?" Turns out that bubong is roof! Someone's roof flew off today because of the strong winds hitting the city today! As serious and as crappy as it is for whoever that happened to, the conversation that followed with my parents killed me! Seeing my mom's shocked face with my dad's calm face was the first thing. Nonchalantly my dad comments surely, their insurance should cover such damages. Him being an insurance agent and all, I just thought it was the funniest thing. There was no, "Are they okay? Was anyone hurt?", just "Yes, their insurance should include coverage for such damages." I mean, this is about one of their friends! Lol! From there, my dad got into reminiscing-mode and began telling about a time when a typhoon hit in PI. He continued to describe how roofs would always fly off of houses and in his words, "What can you do?" He shared an incident of when he was working at this plant and during a storm, a huge metal plate got sucked up in the air! "What did you do", I asked. His response? "Well, since it flew up like a flying saucer, the only thing you can do is make sure you don't get hit when it falls back down." Maybe it was the words "flying saucer" that made it funny or his facial expression or even his matter-of-factly sharing that yes, typhoons are bad. In any case, I learned a new word today: bubong = roof.
Birthday Shoutouts
Just wanted to send some birthday hugs to D.Reyes! Haven't seen this "omigosh-I-didn't-know-he-was-Filipino" dude in a long time, but whenever we get a hold of each other online, it's like the old SFState days. Happily married with a beautiful family of his own now, I will always remember him as the anime drawing freak from ASU! Lol! Hope you have a faboo birthday, D!
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Friday, November 25, 2005
Belated Gobble Gobble Wishes!
Just wanted to wish ya'll belated Happy Thanksgiving wishes! Though many do not celebrate the true meaning of this holiday, namely the Native Americans, (really, why celebrate the slaughter of your own people by the white conquerors?), it's always nice to get a day off of work and school to spend time with family. I hope that you took the time to remember and appreciate the many blessings you have. Yes, we shouldn't take this ONE day out of the year to do so...we should be thankful EVERYDAY! In any case, whatever and however you celebrated this day, hope you were able to spend it with your loved ones.
Redeye Flight
Left da city late Wednesday night for a redeye back to MN just in time to celebrate with hubby. Surprisingly, the airports weren't so terrible! Maybe it was because I was flying out so late or maybe I just missed the chaos of flying out on the day before Thanksgiving, aka, the most busiest time of the year to fly. To be on the safe side, I got to the airport more than two hours before my flight. The flight itself was alright. Since I had a helluva day at school, all I wanted to do was close my eyes and sleep. Not too much turbulence, thank goodness, but the couple that I sat next to were interesting, to say the least. I'm not one to really eavesdrop on people's conversations, but if ya'll are talking loud, well, it just can't be helped, yes? The couple that sat next to me were Middle Eastern and not to be so stereotypical, I was somewhat expecting them to speak with an accent. They were probably born and raised here, but what surprised me the most was that if you closed your eyes and heard them talk, the only thing I pictured was a young, white couple. Not to say that this is a bad thing! It's just that you rarely hear people of color use words such as "jolly" while slapping their thigh and laughing. If we're talking about jolly old St. Nicholas, then fine..but they weren't. All I'm trying to say is that for they sounded whiter than the typical white man! Is that mean? Aiya. Hey...when you're taking a redeye after a long ass day of dealing with uncooperative 3rd graders, anything and everything will seem amusing. End of story.
Turkey Day
As is the tradition, hubby prepared Thanksgiving dinner. While he was busy slaving away in the kitchen, I started decorating the house for Christmas. I have to say that I am quite disappointed with myself. Usually BY Thanksgiving, I have all of my Christmas cards addressed, stamped, and ready to go. I like to get them out of the way because I know that immediately after Turkey Day, the craziness of the Christmas holidays set in. Unfortunately, I did not complete that goal and again, I am bummed at myself for not being on top of things. In any case, Thanksgiving dinner was yum...here was the menu that hubby prepared:
turkey
ham
mashed potatoes and gravy (from scratch!)
stuffing
corn
pumpkin pie (for him!)
french silk pie (for moi!)
After stuffing our faces in to keep us content for the time being, we ventured out to the movie theaters to watch "Rent." I have been looking forward to this for some time now. We had actually gone to see the Broadway production of "Rent" back in 1999 in da city, but for some reason, I don't remember being so impressed by it. But it's like how when the movie of "Phantom of the Opera" came out, I was totally impressed! Okay, the phantom didn't have the strongest of voices out there, but watching the film/musical made me understand it in a totally different level. Perhaps seeing "Phantom" on stage is just a different experience and maybe sometimes the singers are a tad overly operatic in the sense that I can't even understand what they're singing about. Yah I got the gist of the story, but seeing the storyline on film made a lot of sense in parts where I might've been cloudy on. The same with "Rent," I almost forgot what the storyline was about. Not only was it a story of 8 friends living in New York, but it's really how their lives are connected and the many struggles they deal with. To me, it's a very REAL story. It deals with HIV positive people, strip club dancers, drag queens, lesbians, song writers, and film makers. It deals with drugs, sex, social injustice, and politics. While it is a whole other side of a community that many choose to ignore, hate, fear, disrespect, and misunderstand, the movie touches upon the human side that we should always see...that there is more to people than what can be seen on the outside. In all honesty, I was surprised that "Rent" was being shown out here in good ole' conservative Midwest...but very glad that it is just the same. If you're looking for a good movie to watch this Thanksgiving weekend, check out "Rent." And oh yes, don't forget to bring the tissue!
Winter Wonderland
After watching "Rent" last night, we were still in the mood to watch another movie so we popped in "The Polar Express." If ya'll haven't seen it, I recommend it! It has a really good message about believing and it's just the perfect thing to get you into the Christmas spirit. By the time we headed to bed, it was about 2:30am-ish. We were woken up by this annoyingly loud scraping noise and hubby asked, "Are those the snow plowers?" We both got out of bed and went to the window and wouldn't you know it? It was snowing! Everything covered in white looked so beautiful...and cold. Winter has arrived! I did get a chance to go out 'cuz I wanted to take a pic with my camera phone..and for that minute or so that we were out there, all I can say is BRRRRRRRRRRRRR! The wind chill is about 6 degrees and again, while it looks pretty and wintery, it's not as romantic as it looks. Plus, it's a major bitch if you have to travel in it! As I write this, the snow is still falling. According to hubby, we probably have received about 4 inches so far. It's still coming down and all I could say is, damn..."...and so it begins..."
Birthday Shout-Outs
Just wanted to send some birthday wishes to sista-friend, RyceGirlie! I haven't seen her in a while and we've been meaning to have a walk-n-talk about Lake Merced forever. We figure, if we can get a good workout while catching up on each other's life, then yah, let's go for it! Well girlfriend, I hope that we get to catch up real soon...hope you have a wonderful day today, girl- Happy Birthday!
Just wanted to wish ya'll belated Happy Thanksgiving wishes! Though many do not celebrate the true meaning of this holiday, namely the Native Americans, (really, why celebrate the slaughter of your own people by the white conquerors?), it's always nice to get a day off of work and school to spend time with family. I hope that you took the time to remember and appreciate the many blessings you have. Yes, we shouldn't take this ONE day out of the year to do so...we should be thankful EVERYDAY! In any case, whatever and however you celebrated this day, hope you were able to spend it with your loved ones.
Redeye Flight
Left da city late Wednesday night for a redeye back to MN just in time to celebrate with hubby. Surprisingly, the airports weren't so terrible! Maybe it was because I was flying out so late or maybe I just missed the chaos of flying out on the day before Thanksgiving, aka, the most busiest time of the year to fly. To be on the safe side, I got to the airport more than two hours before my flight. The flight itself was alright. Since I had a helluva day at school, all I wanted to do was close my eyes and sleep. Not too much turbulence, thank goodness, but the couple that I sat next to were interesting, to say the least. I'm not one to really eavesdrop on people's conversations, but if ya'll are talking loud, well, it just can't be helped, yes? The couple that sat next to me were Middle Eastern and not to be so stereotypical, I was somewhat expecting them to speak with an accent. They were probably born and raised here, but what surprised me the most was that if you closed your eyes and heard them talk, the only thing I pictured was a young, white couple. Not to say that this is a bad thing! It's just that you rarely hear people of color use words such as "jolly" while slapping their thigh and laughing. If we're talking about jolly old St. Nicholas, then fine..but they weren't. All I'm trying to say is that for they sounded whiter than the typical white man! Is that mean? Aiya. Hey...when you're taking a redeye after a long ass day of dealing with uncooperative 3rd graders, anything and everything will seem amusing. End of story.
Turkey Day
As is the tradition, hubby prepared Thanksgiving dinner. While he was busy slaving away in the kitchen, I started decorating the house for Christmas. I have to say that I am quite disappointed with myself. Usually BY Thanksgiving, I have all of my Christmas cards addressed, stamped, and ready to go. I like to get them out of the way because I know that immediately after Turkey Day, the craziness of the Christmas holidays set in. Unfortunately, I did not complete that goal and again, I am bummed at myself for not being on top of things. In any case, Thanksgiving dinner was yum...here was the menu that hubby prepared:
turkey
ham
mashed potatoes and gravy (from scratch!)
stuffing
corn
pumpkin pie (for him!)
french silk pie (for moi!)
After stuffing our faces in to keep us content for the time being, we ventured out to the movie theaters to watch "Rent." I have been looking forward to this for some time now. We had actually gone to see the Broadway production of "Rent" back in 1999 in da city, but for some reason, I don't remember being so impressed by it. But it's like how when the movie of "Phantom of the Opera" came out, I was totally impressed! Okay, the phantom didn't have the strongest of voices out there, but watching the film/musical made me understand it in a totally different level. Perhaps seeing "Phantom" on stage is just a different experience and maybe sometimes the singers are a tad overly operatic in the sense that I can't even understand what they're singing about. Yah I got the gist of the story, but seeing the storyline on film made a lot of sense in parts where I might've been cloudy on. The same with "Rent," I almost forgot what the storyline was about. Not only was it a story of 8 friends living in New York, but it's really how their lives are connected and the many struggles they deal with. To me, it's a very REAL story. It deals with HIV positive people, strip club dancers, drag queens, lesbians, song writers, and film makers. It deals with drugs, sex, social injustice, and politics. While it is a whole other side of a community that many choose to ignore, hate, fear, disrespect, and misunderstand, the movie touches upon the human side that we should always see...that there is more to people than what can be seen on the outside. In all honesty, I was surprised that "Rent" was being shown out here in good ole' conservative Midwest...but very glad that it is just the same. If you're looking for a good movie to watch this Thanksgiving weekend, check out "Rent." And oh yes, don't forget to bring the tissue!
Winter Wonderland
After watching "Rent" last night, we were still in the mood to watch another movie so we popped in "The Polar Express." If ya'll haven't seen it, I recommend it! It has a really good message about believing and it's just the perfect thing to get you into the Christmas spirit. By the time we headed to bed, it was about 2:30am-ish. We were woken up by this annoyingly loud scraping noise and hubby asked, "Are those the snow plowers?" We both got out of bed and went to the window and wouldn't you know it? It was snowing! Everything covered in white looked so beautiful...and cold. Winter has arrived! I did get a chance to go out 'cuz I wanted to take a pic with my camera phone..and for that minute or so that we were out there, all I can say is BRRRRRRRRRRRRR! The wind chill is about 6 degrees and again, while it looks pretty and wintery, it's not as romantic as it looks. Plus, it's a major bitch if you have to travel in it! As I write this, the snow is still falling. According to hubby, we probably have received about 4 inches so far. It's still coming down and all I could say is, damn..."...and so it begins..."
Birthday Shout-Outs
Just wanted to send some birthday wishes to sista-friend, RyceGirlie! I haven't seen her in a while and we've been meaning to have a walk-n-talk about Lake Merced forever. We figure, if we can get a good workout while catching up on each other's life, then yah, let's go for it! Well girlfriend, I hope that we get to catch up real soon...hope you have a wonderful day today, girl- Happy Birthday!
Monday, November 21, 2005
Ocean Beach, Grandma, TFC, and really bad Hip Hop
Sunday afternoon proved to be a beautiful day in da city. In fact, da city has been blessed with warm, sunny, simply gorgeous days lately that I'm tempted to call in sick. Where would I go? To the beach, of course! Recently it's been the norm that I spend my Sunday afternoons lounging at the beach and correcting my papers. Yes, correcting papers....the piles and piles that never seem to end. Because I'd rather not deal with papers getting caught in a breeze and awkwardly running after them as I sink deeper into the sand, I do my correcting in my car.
I actually snagged a good spot yesterday...prime location to watch the many surfers riding the waves, people flyin' kites with their kids, and no telephone poles to block my view of the ocean itself. I rolled down my windows, scooted my seat back, and began attacking the pile I brought with me. After about an hour, I could feel the sun beating down on my entire left side of my neck and arms. Too bad I couldn't turn over and work on my right side. That would've looked silly. Usually I would reward myself an actual stroll on the beach after I complete a pile, but since I had so many, I never left my car. Instead, I had to break away and drive out to Baskin Robbins in Westlake for a delish MochaBlast.
'Tis been a while since I've visited my Apu (grandma). Yes, shame on me. Since I won't be around for the Thanksgiving holidays, I decided to pay her a visit. When I got there, she was lying in bed watching tv. Now if you know my Apu, you know that her guilty pleasure is anything and everything on TFC...the Filipino channel. My grandma could name the popular artistas, who's who in whatever drama she's watching, who's dating whom, etc. If I didn't know better, I'd say that my 89 year old grandma is an addict! Lol!
If you've ever watched TFC, you know that there are numerous "variety shows." By variety, I mean, shows with a whole bunch of people dancing and singing...or should I say, TRYING to dance and at best, lip-syncing. For as long as I can remember, I've always been irked at how the artistas really could NOT lip-sync in time with the music. I mean, dude! How hard is it? At least look as if you're really singing! And do yourselves a favor...keep the mic at your mouth!
Anyways... Apu was watching "Fantastic." It was a dance contest among different actors from shows like America's version of Big Brother. A dance contest. Seeing that PI is so hip to get with the western culture, it's no surprise that the young'uns were all hootchified out. But as much as I am proud to say that Pinoys and Pinays got the rhythm thing goin' on, the ones on this variety show SO didn't have it goin' on. Now, I was pretty much entertained for two reasons. One, that I was watching some REALLY BAD HIP HOP on TV...'twas so bad that it was funny. Two, that I was watching some really bad hip hop on tv WITH MY APU! She's chillin' watching this dance contest with music bumpin' from Snoop Dogg ("Drop It Like It's Hot") and Black Eyed Peas ("Bebot")! She's watching these hootchified mamas grindin' and shakin'....and watching the wannabe breakers doin' their thing. And it’s not like she was changing channels, paused, and shook her head at the bumpin’ and grindin’. She was actually watching it! Hilarious! Wow..I totally see my grandma in a whole new light! Lol!
Sunday afternoon proved to be a beautiful day in da city. In fact, da city has been blessed with warm, sunny, simply gorgeous days lately that I'm tempted to call in sick. Where would I go? To the beach, of course! Recently it's been the norm that I spend my Sunday afternoons lounging at the beach and correcting my papers. Yes, correcting papers....the piles and piles that never seem to end. Because I'd rather not deal with papers getting caught in a breeze and awkwardly running after them as I sink deeper into the sand, I do my correcting in my car.
I actually snagged a good spot yesterday...prime location to watch the many surfers riding the waves, people flyin' kites with their kids, and no telephone poles to block my view of the ocean itself. I rolled down my windows, scooted my seat back, and began attacking the pile I brought with me. After about an hour, I could feel the sun beating down on my entire left side of my neck and arms. Too bad I couldn't turn over and work on my right side. That would've looked silly. Usually I would reward myself an actual stroll on the beach after I complete a pile, but since I had so many, I never left my car. Instead, I had to break away and drive out to Baskin Robbins in Westlake for a delish MochaBlast.
'Tis been a while since I've visited my Apu (grandma). Yes, shame on me. Since I won't be around for the Thanksgiving holidays, I decided to pay her a visit. When I got there, she was lying in bed watching tv. Now if you know my Apu, you know that her guilty pleasure is anything and everything on TFC...the Filipino channel. My grandma could name the popular artistas, who's who in whatever drama she's watching, who's dating whom, etc. If I didn't know better, I'd say that my 89 year old grandma is an addict! Lol!
If you've ever watched TFC, you know that there are numerous "variety shows." By variety, I mean, shows with a whole bunch of people dancing and singing...or should I say, TRYING to dance and at best, lip-syncing. For as long as I can remember, I've always been irked at how the artistas really could NOT lip-sync in time with the music. I mean, dude! How hard is it? At least look as if you're really singing! And do yourselves a favor...keep the mic at your mouth!
Anyways... Apu was watching "Fantastic." It was a dance contest among different actors from shows like America's version of Big Brother. A dance contest. Seeing that PI is so hip to get with the western culture, it's no surprise that the young'uns were all hootchified out. But as much as I am proud to say that Pinoys and Pinays got the rhythm thing goin' on, the ones on this variety show SO didn't have it goin' on. Now, I was pretty much entertained for two reasons. One, that I was watching some REALLY BAD HIP HOP on TV...'twas so bad that it was funny. Two, that I was watching some really bad hip hop on tv WITH MY APU! She's chillin' watching this dance contest with music bumpin' from Snoop Dogg ("Drop It Like It's Hot") and Black Eyed Peas ("Bebot")! She's watching these hootchified mamas grindin' and shakin'....and watching the wannabe breakers doin' their thing. And it’s not like she was changing channels, paused, and shook her head at the bumpin’ and grindin’. She was actually watching it! Hilarious! Wow..I totally see my grandma in a whole new light! Lol!
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Rough Week and Sad Goodbyes
With the upcoming 3rd grade Christmas program, tensions have been high at school. All grade level teachers are stressin' out. We've all been feeling the pressure to get our students to memorize the songs, learn their lines for drama, and to remember all the handmotions that accompany the songs. It doesn't help any that we've only less than two weeks to get them ready. As mentioned before, I somehow took on the task of writing the drama portion...however that happened, I'd rather not discuss. Let's just say that I "took one for the team." In any case, and as short as it is, it wasn't so terrible considering that the story of the birth of Christ has already been written! 'Twas just trying to incorporate that into a short story that was giving me a headache. Plus the fact that yes, although I've always tinkered with the idea of writing, THIS will be the first time ever that I've written something that will be OUT THERE for all the world to see! Ok, so not all the world, but still... I already have this self-esteem issue when it comes to my writing and as some people have pointed out, it's ONLY a 3rd grade Christmas program. Even though the parents will be so busy pointing and clicking their digicams and cameras, laughing at how cute the dressed up reindeer are, etc, it's STILL my writing. It makes me nervous on a whole different level.
I will admit though, practicing every day has been a real bitch. It's bad enough that teachers don't feel like we get enough teaching time in the classroom, but it's felt even deeper because of all the rehearsals. After practice, it's lunchtime; after lunch, the kids are so exhausted and ready to call it a day. Attention spans are at its all time low of the day and any plans on my part to get them to focus seem practically impossible. And I don't blame them. It just sucks big time is all I'm trying to say.
My kids have been a major challenge this year. I was commenting to a teacher friend my concerns that maybe I have just lost my touch with disciplining. Even as a 1st year teacher some years back, I felt that I had my students under control...I even had "the look" that stopped any misbehavior or even the thought of misbehavior! But this year? Hmmm...it's not that these kids are bad. They're really a good bunch of rugrats. Honestly? They really can't shut up! The majority of my students ALWAYS have to make a comment about something. Even after the reminder has been given, someone will have to say something. And when I get on their case, they have the gall to say that they didn't say anything!
Student: "I was just telling him that he dropped his eraser!"
MnM: "But did you talk?"
Student: "No. I was just telling him..."
MnM" "And how did you tell him? With your voice?"
Student: "Yes, but..."
MnM: "And wasn't my instructions not to talk anymore?"
Student: "Yes, but..."
MnM: "So yes, you talked. You used your voice. You owe me 5 minutes outside."
They SAID something, but they didn't say anything. This is just an example of my many conversations... Some people might say that man, MnM, he was just telling his friend that he dropped his eraser. To that, I will say, too bad he talked. There are other ways to tell someone that he or she dropped an eraser...a much more silent way. Point to the dropped eraser. Signal to your friend. Do it without talking. There is no negotiation here unless it's an emergency and no, a dropped eraser is not an emergency.
There are days when I am SO looking forward to ending this teaching gig in January. Seems like after the Christmas program, January will be here before I know it! But there are so many moments that remind me of why I chose teaching as a career in the first place. When I have the eyes of each student captivated by what I'm saying, I feel that yes, they are learning. When a kid's eyes light up because it clicked on in their head how to do something, it's such a good feeling. Time and time again, it's always said that teachers don't see the fruits of their labor until much later. But even those small moments are well worth the effort of what I do and makes even the bad days better.
I won't lie...I will miss these kids terribly when I leave. It's like a teaser almost because I started the year with them, worked with many of them in certain areas, but I won't be able to see them through and how they might've improved. And I believe that it takes some kids to adjust and so while those late bloomers are beginning to open up and blossom, it'll be time for me to go. As much as I complain about how tough it's been to be back in the classroom and as crazy days as I have and want to pull my hair out because of some rugrat, it'll be sad to say goodbye.
Speaking of goodbyes, I got a call from hubby in the middle of the day earlier this week. It's rare that hubby calls me during school and once I heard my phone ring, I immediately knew something was up. Turns out that an auntie-friend back in Minnesota passed away due to complications of her cancer and a recent stroke attack. As some of you have read in hubby's blog, Tita Beth had been nothing but kind to us. When hubby and I first moved out there, she was one of the few that would say hello to us and greet us as if we really belonged. Because the church community is so small, it was tough on everyone to see her go through her the effects of chemo on her body. And yet, through it all, she still made it to church, hairless and all, with a big smile on her face. She went into remission for a while and we all thought it was a miracle. She gained her weight back, her hair grew out, and all was thought to be fine. But the evil of her disease returned with a vengeance...and it was just too much for her to handle. The last time I saw her, she was in a wheelchair and though it didn't look it, I was told that her time was very limited. It was hard to hear that she passed on without having to said my goodbyes. And boy was it tough to finish the rest of the day at school. But a huge part of me is glad that she is finally free from all the pain. Though she leaves her children behind, I know in my heart that it was her time and that God has a much bigger plan for her. Death is something that no one deals with well...I mean, is that even possible? But it comforts me that her suffering is over and that she is with the big guy upstairs. Her faith was strong and I pray that her passing will only bring her children closer together.
Rest in peace, Tita Beth... even though I wasn't able to say my goodbyes to you in person, know that you were loved and appreciated by everyone around you. Your smiles and your loving presence will definitely be missed.
With the upcoming 3rd grade Christmas program, tensions have been high at school. All grade level teachers are stressin' out. We've all been feeling the pressure to get our students to memorize the songs, learn their lines for drama, and to remember all the handmotions that accompany the songs. It doesn't help any that we've only less than two weeks to get them ready. As mentioned before, I somehow took on the task of writing the drama portion...however that happened, I'd rather not discuss. Let's just say that I "took one for the team." In any case, and as short as it is, it wasn't so terrible considering that the story of the birth of Christ has already been written! 'Twas just trying to incorporate that into a short story that was giving me a headache. Plus the fact that yes, although I've always tinkered with the idea of writing, THIS will be the first time ever that I've written something that will be OUT THERE for all the world to see! Ok, so not all the world, but still... I already have this self-esteem issue when it comes to my writing and as some people have pointed out, it's ONLY a 3rd grade Christmas program. Even though the parents will be so busy pointing and clicking their digicams and cameras, laughing at how cute the dressed up reindeer are, etc, it's STILL my writing. It makes me nervous on a whole different level.
I will admit though, practicing every day has been a real bitch. It's bad enough that teachers don't feel like we get enough teaching time in the classroom, but it's felt even deeper because of all the rehearsals. After practice, it's lunchtime; after lunch, the kids are so exhausted and ready to call it a day. Attention spans are at its all time low of the day and any plans on my part to get them to focus seem practically impossible. And I don't blame them. It just sucks big time is all I'm trying to say.
My kids have been a major challenge this year. I was commenting to a teacher friend my concerns that maybe I have just lost my touch with disciplining. Even as a 1st year teacher some years back, I felt that I had my students under control...I even had "the look" that stopped any misbehavior or even the thought of misbehavior! But this year? Hmmm...it's not that these kids are bad. They're really a good bunch of rugrats. Honestly? They really can't shut up! The majority of my students ALWAYS have to make a comment about something. Even after the reminder has been given, someone will have to say something. And when I get on their case, they have the gall to say that they didn't say anything!
Student: "I was just telling him that he dropped his eraser!"
MnM: "But did you talk?"
Student: "No. I was just telling him..."
MnM" "And how did you tell him? With your voice?"
Student: "Yes, but..."
MnM: "And wasn't my instructions not to talk anymore?"
Student: "Yes, but..."
MnM: "So yes, you talked. You used your voice. You owe me 5 minutes outside."
They SAID something, but they didn't say anything. This is just an example of my many conversations... Some people might say that man, MnM, he was just telling his friend that he dropped his eraser. To that, I will say, too bad he talked. There are other ways to tell someone that he or she dropped an eraser...a much more silent way. Point to the dropped eraser. Signal to your friend. Do it without talking. There is no negotiation here unless it's an emergency and no, a dropped eraser is not an emergency.
There are days when I am SO looking forward to ending this teaching gig in January. Seems like after the Christmas program, January will be here before I know it! But there are so many moments that remind me of why I chose teaching as a career in the first place. When I have the eyes of each student captivated by what I'm saying, I feel that yes, they are learning. When a kid's eyes light up because it clicked on in their head how to do something, it's such a good feeling. Time and time again, it's always said that teachers don't see the fruits of their labor until much later. But even those small moments are well worth the effort of what I do and makes even the bad days better.
I won't lie...I will miss these kids terribly when I leave. It's like a teaser almost because I started the year with them, worked with many of them in certain areas, but I won't be able to see them through and how they might've improved. And I believe that it takes some kids to adjust and so while those late bloomers are beginning to open up and blossom, it'll be time for me to go. As much as I complain about how tough it's been to be back in the classroom and as crazy days as I have and want to pull my hair out because of some rugrat, it'll be sad to say goodbye.
Speaking of goodbyes, I got a call from hubby in the middle of the day earlier this week. It's rare that hubby calls me during school and once I heard my phone ring, I immediately knew something was up. Turns out that an auntie-friend back in Minnesota passed away due to complications of her cancer and a recent stroke attack. As some of you have read in hubby's blog, Tita Beth had been nothing but kind to us. When hubby and I first moved out there, she was one of the few that would say hello to us and greet us as if we really belonged. Because the church community is so small, it was tough on everyone to see her go through her the effects of chemo on her body. And yet, through it all, she still made it to church, hairless and all, with a big smile on her face. She went into remission for a while and we all thought it was a miracle. She gained her weight back, her hair grew out, and all was thought to be fine. But the evil of her disease returned with a vengeance...and it was just too much for her to handle. The last time I saw her, she was in a wheelchair and though it didn't look it, I was told that her time was very limited. It was hard to hear that she passed on without having to said my goodbyes. And boy was it tough to finish the rest of the day at school. But a huge part of me is glad that she is finally free from all the pain. Though she leaves her children behind, I know in my heart that it was her time and that God has a much bigger plan for her. Death is something that no one deals with well...I mean, is that even possible? But it comforts me that her suffering is over and that she is with the big guy upstairs. Her faith was strong and I pray that her passing will only bring her children closer together.
Rest in peace, Tita Beth... even though I wasn't able to say my goodbyes to you in person, know that you were loved and appreciated by everyone around you. Your smiles and your loving presence will definitely be missed.
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Where Does The Time Go?
It still trips me out at the period of time between posts. I'm amazed at how people find the time to blog on a daily basis when I'm over here struggling to correct the neverending piles of papers, trying to develop a script for the third grade Christmas program (um, more on that later...), recovering from last week's parent-teacher conferences, trying to squeeze in at least a good 5-6 hours of sleep, AND still be able to enjoy my WB programs. Yes, I MUST have my fill of my shows, or as some would call them, "mindless entertainment," or else I will not be able to function well. As funny as it is, I will drop everything that I have in order to catch the latest of Smallville, Gilmore Girls, and my recent fave, Related.
In any case, here's the rundown of some of the things that I've been up to these past few weeks...
- Parent-Teacher Conferences
As tiring and somewhat nerve-racking as it is to meet with some parents, the experience was not totally dreadful. There was one that really stood out that I wanted to share. When the parent first came, she brought with her a box of pastries from her bakery..for me! How nice is that?! With this conference, I already knew that it would be a good meeting simply because her son is just the sweetest thing on this earth. This particular student is like a teddy bear..not only is he just an overall sweet-natured kid, he's also helpful, kind to others, trustworthy, responsible, and pretty good academically. All this, of course, was conveyed to the mother at which point, she started crying! Good tears, mind you! It caught me off guard because while she was trying to hold back her tears, she was explaining that every year at conference time, the teachers always have such nice things to say about her son and it just touches her heart. I mean, I have heard parents say that yes, of course, they love their kid, but the WAY she said, "Oh, I just love my son so much" got ME teary-eyed! I had nothing but good things to say about him and while she was being so appreciative of me as a teacher, I had to give it right back to her for being such a supportive parent. When she heard that, the tears just came even more! Embarrassed, but still trying to talk, she started joking, "Oh see, now all of these parents are wondering why I'm crying..they must think my kid is really bad!"
Moments like these not only stand out, but really makes an impression on me. It serves as a major reminder of what MY job and responsibilites are as a teacher. Yes, my goal is to make a difference in a child's life, but with all the craziness of what teaching entails, I'll be honest and say that it is easy to forget what I'm really there for. It's easy to get caught up with what needs to get done each day. It's easy to forget that the students entrusted in my care are only 8-year old kids...young...impressionable....eager to learn...eager for guidance....craving for attention...craving for praise...craving for validation. No matter what people say, teaching is difficult. It's not an easy thing. There are days when I literally pray for a good day....please God, grant me the patience that I need to teach these lil' rugrats.... I mean, anyone can just go into a classroom, bust out some facts for the kids to memorize, and call it a day. But what good is that? I don't want to just teach. I don't just want to guide. Ultimately, I want to make a difference and inspire. I think because it has been a while for me being in a classroom, it's taken me some time adjust back. And yes, while it gets crazy and hectic, little moments like the parent-teacher conferences gives me that opportunity to step back and look at teaching in a new perspective or to see my students in a different light..to see the students from their parents' point of view. While I don't even want to go into how some parents believe their chidren are complete and perfect angels (sorry lady!), kids will be kids....it just makes my job easier when the parents and teachers work together. After all, we both want the same thing for the kids.
In any case, I'm glad conference week is over. With all the pleasant meetings I had, I did have my share of conferences that were, well, just there. Some parents do not understand the concept of "Please do not disturb- conferences in session..", but I will let that one go....
-Trek Out to the Double V
A couple of weeks ago, lil' bro Phil and I made the trek to Vacaville for Keyopes' son's birthday party. 'Twas a first time for me to see the new house and of course, what a great excuse for a get-together! It was great to see old friends and can I just say that those inflatable jumpers make for a really good ab and leg workout? All the jumping and all the laughing made my workout for the day complete- lol! 'Tis funny because although I did make a roadtrip from CA to MN, the car ride from da city to Vacaville was just long! Got to visit the outlets afterwards for a bit..didn't buy anything, but cool nonetheless. Belated birthday wishes to lil' Andres!
- Sunday Stroll
Is it possible to be mad and upset at a place? For as long as I can remember, I have been going to Ocean Beach. It's been my refuge of sorts....it may not be the most beautiful beach out there, but when I need to think, clear my head, or just want to be alone, that's where I go. Spending time there, watching and listening the waves crash onto the shore relaxes me, soothes me even. But there was one particular moment when I came to the beach, wanting to get away from pressures of life and whatnot, and surprisingly, I got nothing out of it. I literally left upset, mad at the beach, for not comforting me in the way that I needed. So it's not a major surprise that since I've been here in da Bay, I have not gone out of my way to visit. And I've missed it. Two Sundays ago, I was on my way to church when something inside made me head on to the beach. It just so happened to be one of those rare beautiful warm days in da city and being there did something to me. It didn't lift my spirits completely, but being out there, being warmed by the sun, listening to the waves, hearing the laughter of lil' kids playing, seeing surfers trying to catch that perfect wave did something to me. It's as if whatever it was that I lost was found again. I'm not talking major life altering moment or anything, but whatever it was compelled me to drive out to Fort Funston and take a walk. Take a walk! Me? I don't usually go out for walks...nevermind that I should more often, but yes, that's what I did. Whatever "rift" existed between the beach and myself, if that is at all possible, is gone. And it did my soul some good.
It still trips me out at the period of time between posts. I'm amazed at how people find the time to blog on a daily basis when I'm over here struggling to correct the neverending piles of papers, trying to develop a script for the third grade Christmas program (um, more on that later...), recovering from last week's parent-teacher conferences, trying to squeeze in at least a good 5-6 hours of sleep, AND still be able to enjoy my WB programs. Yes, I MUST have my fill of my shows, or as some would call them, "mindless entertainment," or else I will not be able to function well. As funny as it is, I will drop everything that I have in order to catch the latest of Smallville, Gilmore Girls, and my recent fave, Related.
In any case, here's the rundown of some of the things that I've been up to these past few weeks...
- Parent-Teacher Conferences
As tiring and somewhat nerve-racking as it is to meet with some parents, the experience was not totally dreadful. There was one that really stood out that I wanted to share. When the parent first came, she brought with her a box of pastries from her bakery..for me! How nice is that?! With this conference, I already knew that it would be a good meeting simply because her son is just the sweetest thing on this earth. This particular student is like a teddy bear..not only is he just an overall sweet-natured kid, he's also helpful, kind to others, trustworthy, responsible, and pretty good academically. All this, of course, was conveyed to the mother at which point, she started crying! Good tears, mind you! It caught me off guard because while she was trying to hold back her tears, she was explaining that every year at conference time, the teachers always have such nice things to say about her son and it just touches her heart. I mean, I have heard parents say that yes, of course, they love their kid, but the WAY she said, "Oh, I just love my son so much" got ME teary-eyed! I had nothing but good things to say about him and while she was being so appreciative of me as a teacher, I had to give it right back to her for being such a supportive parent. When she heard that, the tears just came even more! Embarrassed, but still trying to talk, she started joking, "Oh see, now all of these parents are wondering why I'm crying..they must think my kid is really bad!"
Moments like these not only stand out, but really makes an impression on me. It serves as a major reminder of what MY job and responsibilites are as a teacher. Yes, my goal is to make a difference in a child's life, but with all the craziness of what teaching entails, I'll be honest and say that it is easy to forget what I'm really there for. It's easy to get caught up with what needs to get done each day. It's easy to forget that the students entrusted in my care are only 8-year old kids...young...impressionable....eager to learn...eager for guidance....craving for attention...craving for praise...craving for validation. No matter what people say, teaching is difficult. It's not an easy thing. There are days when I literally pray for a good day....please God, grant me the patience that I need to teach these lil' rugrats.... I mean, anyone can just go into a classroom, bust out some facts for the kids to memorize, and call it a day. But what good is that? I don't want to just teach. I don't just want to guide. Ultimately, I want to make a difference and inspire. I think because it has been a while for me being in a classroom, it's taken me some time adjust back. And yes, while it gets crazy and hectic, little moments like the parent-teacher conferences gives me that opportunity to step back and look at teaching in a new perspective or to see my students in a different light..to see the students from their parents' point of view. While I don't even want to go into how some parents believe their chidren are complete and perfect angels (sorry lady!), kids will be kids....it just makes my job easier when the parents and teachers work together. After all, we both want the same thing for the kids.
In any case, I'm glad conference week is over. With all the pleasant meetings I had, I did have my share of conferences that were, well, just there. Some parents do not understand the concept of "Please do not disturb- conferences in session..", but I will let that one go....
-Trek Out to the Double V
A couple of weeks ago, lil' bro Phil and I made the trek to Vacaville for Keyopes' son's birthday party. 'Twas a first time for me to see the new house and of course, what a great excuse for a get-together! It was great to see old friends and can I just say that those inflatable jumpers make for a really good ab and leg workout? All the jumping and all the laughing made my workout for the day complete- lol! 'Tis funny because although I did make a roadtrip from CA to MN, the car ride from da city to Vacaville was just long! Got to visit the outlets afterwards for a bit..didn't buy anything, but cool nonetheless. Belated birthday wishes to lil' Andres!
- Sunday Stroll
Is it possible to be mad and upset at a place? For as long as I can remember, I have been going to Ocean Beach. It's been my refuge of sorts....it may not be the most beautiful beach out there, but when I need to think, clear my head, or just want to be alone, that's where I go. Spending time there, watching and listening the waves crash onto the shore relaxes me, soothes me even. But there was one particular moment when I came to the beach, wanting to get away from pressures of life and whatnot, and surprisingly, I got nothing out of it. I literally left upset, mad at the beach, for not comforting me in the way that I needed. So it's not a major surprise that since I've been here in da Bay, I have not gone out of my way to visit. And I've missed it. Two Sundays ago, I was on my way to church when something inside made me head on to the beach. It just so happened to be one of those rare beautiful warm days in da city and being there did something to me. It didn't lift my spirits completely, but being out there, being warmed by the sun, listening to the waves, hearing the laughter of lil' kids playing, seeing surfers trying to catch that perfect wave did something to me. It's as if whatever it was that I lost was found again. I'm not talking major life altering moment or anything, but whatever it was compelled me to drive out to Fort Funston and take a walk. Take a walk! Me? I don't usually go out for walks...nevermind that I should more often, but yes, that's what I did. Whatever "rift" existed between the beach and myself, if that is at all possible, is gone. And it did my soul some good.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)