Wow! I have successfully finished my first week as a middle school English/Language Arts teacher. :) It was a great success, and I've learned so much already. I have made some mistakes already, but I have a great team that is supportive and helping me learn what I need to do. I have already learned a great deal about my students and feel great compassion for them. I hope that I will be able to teach them skills that will lead them to better lives in the future. I'm so excited to see them every day (even though they are far from perfect angels).
This week was also my birthday. Looking back, I realize that I have experienced the best year of my life. I have very high hopes for this coming year. It will be even better as I learn to be a good teacher and finish my master's degree.
Tracey
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
As the last rays of summer sunshine pass me by...
I just wanted to update the blog with the last little bit of happenings and readings from my summer. I started work, officially, last week in the form of "new teacher training" and have spent this week at teacher inservice. The students come to school on Monday, which is less than 5 days away. I am getting so silly excited waiting for them. I have been hard at work fixing up my classroom, planning lessons and basically dotting every "i" and crossing every "t". It has been a ton of work, but it will all be worth it when I see those bright and shiny faces walk through my door!
Last minute summer reads:
I finished the summer off with a few more books. Ask me if you have any questions.
Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life
The Count of Monte Cristo
Three Cups of Tea
The Angel Experiment
I'm not near my bedside table, so I can't list the authors right now. I am currently reading Columbine by Dave Cullen which is a real-life account of what led to the Columbine Shooting in 1999. All of the books above were recommended to me, including Columbine.
I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the third book in the Hunger Games Trilogy. The book is the final one and I can't wait to see what happens to the characters. It comes out on August 24th (the day after I meet my kiddos!) and I already pre-ordered it, so it should be here shortly after my birthday. I'm hoping I can spend that weekend reading it. :)
In other news, Jack has been doing wonderfully at his intermediate puppy class. He tries and works so hard that it really makes me proud. Right now, I am trying to get him adjusted to his new schedule with me teaching every day. We have a few weeks still before my classes start at A&M, so I still come home at a decent hour. When I get home in the afternoons, we go for walks and play until bedtime. I have to get rid of all of his stored-up energy from the day. :)
Tracey
Last minute summer reads:
I finished the summer off with a few more books. Ask me if you have any questions.
Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life
The Count of Monte Cristo
Three Cups of Tea
The Angel Experiment
I'm not near my bedside table, so I can't list the authors right now. I am currently reading Columbine by Dave Cullen which is a real-life account of what led to the Columbine Shooting in 1999. All of the books above were recommended to me, including Columbine.
I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the third book in the Hunger Games Trilogy. The book is the final one and I can't wait to see what happens to the characters. It comes out on August 24th (the day after I meet my kiddos!) and I already pre-ordered it, so it should be here shortly after my birthday. I'm hoping I can spend that weekend reading it. :)
In other news, Jack has been doing wonderfully at his intermediate puppy class. He tries and works so hard that it really makes me proud. Right now, I am trying to get him adjusted to his new schedule with me teaching every day. We have a few weeks still before my classes start at A&M, so I still come home at a decent hour. When I get home in the afternoons, we go for walks and play until bedtime. I have to get rid of all of his stored-up energy from the day. :)
Tracey
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Is it me or the real world?
Lately, I've found that many of my interests have changed and I'm wondering, is it me or is it the real world that has been creating all of this change? I guess to fully answer that question, I have to consider the things about me that have changed.
1. I cook. Not only do I cook, I kind of like it and think about experimenting with it.
This is strange because I have never been one of those people who enjoys creating a meal. I only like eating. However, I have been trying to cook more to save money and eat healthier. I have found that I don't only like cooking, but I like thinking about cooking and figuring out new ways to cook something. I like experimenting with cooking techniques and adding seasonings. And, I must say, I'm not half bad, either.
2. I'm becoming somewhat crafty.
Just like I've never been one to cook, I've never been one to make things. I'd rather buy it already done. I don't have the patience to make pretty things nor do I enjoy the process and it NEVER looks half as good as what I can buy. Well, this changed since I've been decorating my classroom. I've become crafty making posters, banners, bulletin boards and other things to teach my kiddos with. My mom made some photo boards for me by covering bulletin boards with fabric. That gave me the idea to cover my bulletin boards in my bedroom to make them look nicer. Cheap and way cuter than what was already there. I've been thinking I might want to make some cute pillows with the left-over fabric (because I love the fabric so much) but that will require learning to sew...and I'm actually considering doing it. In addition to making cute crafty things, I want to refinish my kitchen table and chairs when I find the time. I don't like the color of the table and chairs but love the style and how sturdy they are. Again, cheaper than buying new furniture and it gets to be exactly the way I want it. I also want to look into making some new bedroom furniture for my room, including a bed and bookshelf. We'll see what happens. :)
3. I want to plant flowers and pretty things in pots for my back porch.
Once again, I've never been interested in gardening, but I find myself wanting to plant things in pots and containers on my back porch to liven it up and make it look pretty. I don't know much about gardening so right now I'm researching what will look good and grow well in containers in the heat. And, what grows well with relatively little care (because I have a feeling I'll forget to water from time-to-time). I also need things that are cheap.
4. I only buy things on sale.
I used to not care so much if something was on sale or not. If I wanted it, I bought it. Now, I look at price first and no matter how much I want it, if the price isn't right, it's a no go. I like sales, and clearances are even better. I also make lists of things I want to buy when I get paid. I doubt I'll buy most of the things on those lists.
5. Finally, as is obvious by now, I'm very aware of money.
I want things that are cheap or on sale. If I can make it for cheap, even better. I'm constantly thinking about money and live by a strict budget. I've actually turned down doing things with friends (dinner or ice cream) to save money.
I still love to read, watch movies and play Wii. I still like going out and doing things with my friends. And, I still love doing anything with Jack or my family. Teaching and being a student still consume a great amount of my time. Ok, so the question is, are all of these changes brought about by the real world or me becoming an adult? The verdict is still out.
-Tracey
1. I cook. Not only do I cook, I kind of like it and think about experimenting with it.
This is strange because I have never been one of those people who enjoys creating a meal. I only like eating. However, I have been trying to cook more to save money and eat healthier. I have found that I don't only like cooking, but I like thinking about cooking and figuring out new ways to cook something. I like experimenting with cooking techniques and adding seasonings. And, I must say, I'm not half bad, either.
2. I'm becoming somewhat crafty.
Just like I've never been one to cook, I've never been one to make things. I'd rather buy it already done. I don't have the patience to make pretty things nor do I enjoy the process and it NEVER looks half as good as what I can buy. Well, this changed since I've been decorating my classroom. I've become crafty making posters, banners, bulletin boards and other things to teach my kiddos with. My mom made some photo boards for me by covering bulletin boards with fabric. That gave me the idea to cover my bulletin boards in my bedroom to make them look nicer. Cheap and way cuter than what was already there. I've been thinking I might want to make some cute pillows with the left-over fabric (because I love the fabric so much) but that will require learning to sew...and I'm actually considering doing it. In addition to making cute crafty things, I want to refinish my kitchen table and chairs when I find the time. I don't like the color of the table and chairs but love the style and how sturdy they are. Again, cheaper than buying new furniture and it gets to be exactly the way I want it. I also want to look into making some new bedroom furniture for my room, including a bed and bookshelf. We'll see what happens. :)
3. I want to plant flowers and pretty things in pots for my back porch.
Once again, I've never been interested in gardening, but I find myself wanting to plant things in pots and containers on my back porch to liven it up and make it look pretty. I don't know much about gardening so right now I'm researching what will look good and grow well in containers in the heat. And, what grows well with relatively little care (because I have a feeling I'll forget to water from time-to-time). I also need things that are cheap.
4. I only buy things on sale.
I used to not care so much if something was on sale or not. If I wanted it, I bought it. Now, I look at price first and no matter how much I want it, if the price isn't right, it's a no go. I like sales, and clearances are even better. I also make lists of things I want to buy when I get paid. I doubt I'll buy most of the things on those lists.
5. Finally, as is obvious by now, I'm very aware of money.
I want things that are cheap or on sale. If I can make it for cheap, even better. I'm constantly thinking about money and live by a strict budget. I've actually turned down doing things with friends (dinner or ice cream) to save money.
I still love to read, watch movies and play Wii. I still like going out and doing things with my friends. And, I still love doing anything with Jack or my family. Teaching and being a student still consume a great amount of my time. Ok, so the question is, are all of these changes brought about by the real world or me becoming an adult? The verdict is still out.
-Tracey
Friday, August 6, 2010
Welcome to the "real world"
As a recent college graduate, I have always heard about what the "real world" would be like. The "real world" represented this illusive vision of what life would be like when I had a job, bills to pay, possibly a family...basically, responsibility without the luxury of blaming all of my stress on school and a lack of money, food and sleep. This "real world" always sounded like a great place to me, someplace where people took responsibility and everything fell into place according to a direct plan. Well, I'm here to say that is the farthest thing from what the "real world" is really like.
In May, I got offered a fantastic job. I was so fortunate and lucky to get a job early in the year. That meant that I would get to spend my entire summer "playing" and not worrying about getting a job before August. While I didn't know what level I would be teaching, I was still excited. In July, I found out I would be teaching 8th grade (the grade I secretly wanted the most!). I spent the next month planning to be an 8th grade teacher. Then, in early August the coveted "room assignment and master schedule" list was released. I was so thrilled to see my name with a room next to it! Yay, for not being a floater and for getting my own space. Then, I went to the 8th grade tab to see my schedule. I wasn't there! So, I looked at the 7th grade listing, and there was my name. 3 weeks before school starts, I'm now placed in a new grade, with the possibility that it might change again before August 23rd arrives. While I am still over-the-moon excited to be teaching, and know I will love 7th grade, I am learning to be flexible. The "real world" follows anything but a well-laid-out plan. The "real world" is more messy and unorganized than college could ever dream of being. However, so far, I'm really loving it out here!
-Tracey
In May, I got offered a fantastic job. I was so fortunate and lucky to get a job early in the year. That meant that I would get to spend my entire summer "playing" and not worrying about getting a job before August. While I didn't know what level I would be teaching, I was still excited. In July, I found out I would be teaching 8th grade (the grade I secretly wanted the most!). I spent the next month planning to be an 8th grade teacher. Then, in early August the coveted "room assignment and master schedule" list was released. I was so thrilled to see my name with a room next to it! Yay, for not being a floater and for getting my own space. Then, I went to the 8th grade tab to see my schedule. I wasn't there! So, I looked at the 7th grade listing, and there was my name. 3 weeks before school starts, I'm now placed in a new grade, with the possibility that it might change again before August 23rd arrives. While I am still over-the-moon excited to be teaching, and know I will love 7th grade, I am learning to be flexible. The "real world" follows anything but a well-laid-out plan. The "real world" is more messy and unorganized than college could ever dream of being. However, so far, I'm really loving it out here!
-Tracey
Sunday, August 1, 2010
August is here!
So, my favorite month of the year has finally arrived! I know this particular August will be especially memorable. 2010 has already surpassed any other year of my life in terms of how wonderful it has been, and I'm sure August will just continue to pour the blessings forward. For me, August has always meant two things: school starting and birthday. It's a really good thing that I love both of those events! However, this August is even more special than ever before because "school starting" means me being the teacher. I officially begin my duties as a teacher in 11 days (orientation and stuff), then meet my kiddos in 22 days and turn 23 in 25 days! :) Bring on the greatest August to date!
-Tracey
-Tracey
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
15 down, 5 in progress, 18 to go!
The master's degree is well underway, and realistically, is half-way complete! So far, I have taken 15 hours (3 last fall, 6 in the spring and 6 the first summer session) and I am currently taking 5 more this summer session. I will finish this summer session on August 10th and will have a few weeks before classes begin i nthe fall. As of right now, I am planning to take 9 hours in the fall (6 directed study hours with two different professors and 3 hours as an acutal class). If all goes well in the fall, and I am able to complete the hours while being a full time teacher, taking care of Jack and training for my half-marathon, I plan to take 9 hours in the spring (all 9 hours would be actual classes). This would allow me to graudate with my master's in May of 2011! The benefit of doing this, is that I would get to enjoy an entire summer with no classes before beginning my PhD. :) I like the idea, but we will see how it goes.
On the half-marathon front, I am still trying to add my 4th mile. It is tough, but I feel like it will happen soon. The Austin Half-Marathon will be on February 20th and that is now my goal. Surely, I will be able to run 13.1 miles by February, right? I'm hoping so! My plan is to be ready to run that half-marathon and potentially another one during the spring, just to show myself that I can do it. I feel like it will be inspiring to my students as well, and a great way for me to show them how I challenge myself too. They need to see that.
Jack has mastered an adorable new trick! When I say "up", he now stands up on his back legs and "claps" his front paws together. It is absolutely precious! :)
-Tracey
On the half-marathon front, I am still trying to add my 4th mile. It is tough, but I feel like it will happen soon. The Austin Half-Marathon will be on February 20th and that is now my goal. Surely, I will be able to run 13.1 miles by February, right? I'm hoping so! My plan is to be ready to run that half-marathon and potentially another one during the spring, just to show myself that I can do it. I feel like it will be inspiring to my students as well, and a great way for me to show them how I challenge myself too. They need to see that.
Jack has mastered an adorable new trick! When I say "up", he now stands up on his back legs and "claps" his front paws together. It is absolutely precious! :)
-Tracey
Monday, July 19, 2010
Fitness Breakthrough
One of my major goals for 2010 has been to become more in shape and healthier. I have never been over-weight or suffered health problems because of my health habits, but I realized that I could make significant improvements if I tried. I decided earlier in the year that it would be "fun" to train for a half-marathon. It actually turned out to be quite challenging and difficult. That is what influenced me to begin working out with a trainer, in addition to my running routine. More recently, I have started trying to eat more healthy as well. I have not made huge changes to my diet, just small things that make the meals I eat more healthy. My favorite new healthy dish is now whole-wheat spaghetti pasta, with spaghetti sauce and turkey meatballs. Delicious!
Anyway, I'm about to finish up my first 12-week challenge with my trainer and I've been wondering if I have really accomplished what I want in those 12 weeks. I can now run a 5K successfully and am working on adding the 4th mile to my run. I was considering measuring myself, weighing myself and figuring out my body mass index to see if I have lost inches, weight and fat during the past 12-weeks. Today, I got my answer without having to do any of those things.
Prior to this summer, the most stressful activity for me to engage in was jeans/pants shopping. They (the stores) just don't seem to make jeans that are in my size, and I've rarely been pleased with my purchases. My biggest nemesis has been skinny jeans. I think they are so cute and have always wanted to be able to wear them. Ha ha ha. I am a thin girl, but I have curves and skinny jeans just aren't made for girls with my shape. Well, today, I went jean shopping to buy a new pair of straight leg jeans (that look really good on me). As I went to pick up those jeans, I saw the skinny jeans staring me down. They were calling me. I thought to myself, "there is no use getting yourself stressed out, so just walk away," but something in me picked up the skinny jeans and took them to the dressing room. Now, usually the problem begins when I try to put my leg into them and can only get the jeans half-way up my thigh. Today, my entire leg easily went into the jeans and I could pull them up. I dreaded trying to button them, but low-and-behold, they buttoned and zipped! THEY FIT! Not only did they fit, but they looked great! :) Needless to say, they were purchased.
I no longer feel the need to weigh or measure myself. I have seen the results I wanted all along. The skinny jeans represent that my body has changed drastically in the past 12 weeks. Not only that, I feel and look great. Yay for fitness success!
-Tracey
Anyway, I'm about to finish up my first 12-week challenge with my trainer and I've been wondering if I have really accomplished what I want in those 12 weeks. I can now run a 5K successfully and am working on adding the 4th mile to my run. I was considering measuring myself, weighing myself and figuring out my body mass index to see if I have lost inches, weight and fat during the past 12-weeks. Today, I got my answer without having to do any of those things.
Prior to this summer, the most stressful activity for me to engage in was jeans/pants shopping. They (the stores) just don't seem to make jeans that are in my size, and I've rarely been pleased with my purchases. My biggest nemesis has been skinny jeans. I think they are so cute and have always wanted to be able to wear them. Ha ha ha. I am a thin girl, but I have curves and skinny jeans just aren't made for girls with my shape. Well, today, I went jean shopping to buy a new pair of straight leg jeans (that look really good on me). As I went to pick up those jeans, I saw the skinny jeans staring me down. They were calling me. I thought to myself, "there is no use getting yourself stressed out, so just walk away," but something in me picked up the skinny jeans and took them to the dressing room. Now, usually the problem begins when I try to put my leg into them and can only get the jeans half-way up my thigh. Today, my entire leg easily went into the jeans and I could pull them up. I dreaded trying to button them, but low-and-behold, they buttoned and zipped! THEY FIT! Not only did they fit, but they looked great! :) Needless to say, they were purchased.
I no longer feel the need to weigh or measure myself. I have seen the results I wanted all along. The skinny jeans represent that my body has changed drastically in the past 12 weeks. Not only that, I feel and look great. Yay for fitness success!
-Tracey
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