Living The Good Life

I had heard rumors, old legends and folktales, but I had always believed they were mere stories of warning, meant to keep me on my toes and always be aware.  But no,  this past week I discovered that the myths, passed down from generation to generation, were absolutely true... You can be pushed to the brink of total insanity by the eye-rolls, whines, and hrumphs of teenagers. Before I say anymore, let me say this:   Mom and Dad, I am so very, very sorry for those tumoultous years roughly between 1991 and 1996.  Seriously...so very sorry. This past week I, along with two other IA teachers, took twenty-one sixth and seventh graders on a four day field trip.  That's right, four days .  For over 80 hours, we endured the arms-crossed, heavy sigh, glare stance that only a teenage girl has down to perfection, the bodily function noises that only teenage boys can manufacture, and the high-pitched, naselly, and constant whine that all dogs across South America can hear.  We held our ground ...

I hate to make this post all about teaching, you know Dave hears enough about it at home, but the fact of the matter is that school has started and, therefore, completely taken over my life.  In the states I had an outlet for this kind of obsession, it was called a team.  We all had the same kids, met everyday, worked together, and daily had the chance to share (some may say vent) the going ons of the day. That is not so here.  I am my team.  It really can't be helped; our school is pretty small with only 200 or so kids for grades nursery to 12.  Every secondary teacher has five different subjects they are prepping for each day.  There really isn't time to talk over ideas, share discoveries, or spill the more shocking things kids do.  (You remember Alex, the kid who actually shocked himself?  Good times) So, lucky you--you get to hear all about what is on the mind of an overseas middle school teacher.  I'll try to keep it short. What I am loving right this moment: **   Mech...

Currently making my heart melt... My niece, Gabriella Faith Miller. She's beautiful, yes? Congratulations Jodi, Casey, and Blake! We love you all.