Easter Vacation

Let me start by saying I am so glad that my workplace calls it EASTER vacation. (Not Spring break) I have been able to take the last week off for Easter vacation and it has been WONDERFUL! Sleeping in (some mornings at least), doing a little bit of much needed Spring cleaning, working out, starting a "biggest loser" competition, teaching two adorable children for 2 days, seeing my parents' new house, celebrating Easter, and, of course, hanging out with Luke. I'd say I was productive this week. It was a much needed break. Now begins the count-down to the end of the year: 8 weeks and counting!

Near-death experience...

Today was a stressful day in the middle of a stressful week. So a natural way to wind down at the end of the day is to watch fish. (It's been proven to lower blood pressure) The tank was in DESPERATE need of cleaning, so I took it upon myself to do this before going home. That's when the near-death experience occurred...

for my African Dwarf frog Ferdinand.He decided to jump out the net (in transit to his now clean tank) and onto the floor. It took me at least a good 1-1 1/2 minutes to get him back in the tank.
I was sure he was going die from this experience, but thankfully he seems to be okay. I guess he wasn't ready to go into the light just yet. THAT would make my class even more stressful!

Surviving kids...

I have successfully survived my first week teaching. Who knew being in charge could be so tiring?!?! I am in a first grade class of 20. Going back to first grade can be difficult after having been through college and credentialing. First graders are almost completely dependent on you. I often find myself trying to do more things at once than my feet can keep up with!
This is not to say, however, that I am not enjoying it. The kids are good and eager to learn. I do not miss the lack of attitude (usually) and the almost curse-word free zone. (I have only had to discipline a kid once for saying the "d" word. Usually the worst thing they say is "stupid")
I am gearing up for District assessments the next two weeks, which scares the crap out of me. So much rides on these assessments and I have to be so sure I don't give too much help or time or not clear directions. If these kids do poorly, the whole school looks bad! (no pressure right? WRONG!) IF I survive the next three weeks unscathed (and that's a BIG "if") I will have had a first-hand experience in touching lives. I just hope it's a positive outcome.