A reminder....

I love teaching, I really do, but lately I have been on the verge of a burn out. Seniors with a severe case of senior-itis, students who can't seem to finish assignments or read at home, which then results in a wasted lesson plan, has taken its toll. This week, however, I was reminded that teaching isn't just about the content.

It's about the students and the person they are becoming.

This week was student-led conferences. I have a group of freshmen who had to sit down with their parents and show them what they had been doing in portfolio each week.

I sat back and marveled at the poise of some students, clearly explaining to their parents the goals they had set, what classes they were planning on taking next year, and how that would help them reach their goal of going to college or helping them with their chosen career path.

What I loved most was hearing the pride in my students' voices as they showed their "best works" from this year. Some of the assignments were picked because they scored 100%, but many of my students said " Mom/Dad, I picked this because I had a hard time with this section. I am really proud of this grade because I finally understood it."

And that is what teaching is really about. Helping my students take pride in their work, helping them learn that they can succeed. And letting them know I appreciate their hard work and am proud of them!

My new favorite things!

Spring Break is possibly one of my favorite times. Could be because I love Easter. Or that my birthday is celebrated by schools taking an entire week off!

This week I received a few new items- gifts from family members and a gift to me! These are a few of my new favorite things...


1. A new boyfriend style cardigan from "Tar-zhay"

2. New tea!
 I love loose leaf tea. Ok, I love tea in general, but I am always excited to get the really good stuff from specialty shops. This kind, Kiss My Lips, came from Cup and Kettle, a tea shop in Leavenworth, Washington. Leavenworth is this great little touristy Bavarian town in WA. My sister brought this back as part of my b-day present. It is delicious- all vanilla-y and a little minty. I add some local honey from the farmer's market and it makes any rainy day better!

3. Tulips- My favorite flowers- part of my b-day gift from D.

4. And last, but not least, my new ring!!!! The best Easter and early birthday present a girl could get!

D did pretty good! I cannot wait to marry this man!