We crash when we race...

January ended with a bang. The storm that hit meant 2 days of no school. Sean and I braved the blizzard conditions on Monday and walked to work. He had no choice, after his attempt to get off the driveway failed miserably. I wasn't required to attend but figured it was time that could be well spent. I was productive. I came to realize that I'd be a much more successful and purposeful teacher if I had that one day every couple weeks to plan and prepare. This window of work time meant my feedback was more meaningful, and my planning more purposeful. I felt ready for school. I was excited to have class. I had the urge to teach. The week that followed, albeit short, was great. The start of this week followed much the same trend. I am now left wondering how I can infuse that same energy and focus without an extra day's grace to do so. That balance is hard, if not impossible, to find.

We were granted with another "break" this week. This time, however, we were the students. Today was a PD day. As usual, another challenge was presented. How can I make my units, and my instruction more meaningful? More purposeful? What are the essential skills and key ideas behind what I teach? What are those "big stones" I need to consider first? Most PD days leave me feeling overwhelmed and rather incompetent. Today I left feeling somewhat inspired. This is work I can do. This is work I will continue to try and incorporate in my daily practice. This is the type of work that I will never conquer for there is always more that can be done. I love that thought because I truly love to learn.

I would consider today a success, although it got off to a shaky start. My car, apparently, wasn't up for the trip to Vita. At around St. Joesph it decided it would begin flashing indicator lights, stop heating, and cease turning. My dad came to the rescue once again, promptly arriving with a vehicle I could use to continue my venture. Turns out it was just a belt. Could have been worse.

With February upon us we have been forced to consider the wedding with a little more detail and consideration than has been the case thus far. We got our social tickets printed up. They arrived in the mail today. It's exactly 2 months away so I guess it's time to start selling those tickets. Saturday, April 3rd in Altona. Although it stresses me out, part of me is excited. Guess we will see how sales go...

February will seem like a race. The weeks ahead are full of places to be and things to get done. Time to buckle up and avoid the crash.

I just heard a bang from the kitchen...gotta go!