I have been away for far too long. What started out as an idea to blog about books, restaurants, writing as therapy so I can shut my mind off at night, ended up having a bit of a hiatus. No reason really, I suppose our December has been very busy and I have found myself thinking of bed as the hours would get closer to 10:00. The semester is almost done, one next week left! I am ready for this break as much as the students. This week has had a "holiday theme" for each day. Monday was ugly sweater day. Tuesday Christmas on the Beach, Wednesday- Night Before Christmas (pjs). Thursday- Santa's Workshop and helpers, and Friday is Red and Green day. Those of you that know me know I love to dress up and always take part in anything that calls for costuming. So, I have partaken in each day's dress and I am not ashamed to admit I may have had the ugliest sweater on Monday. I don't think I've ever had so many compliments "Wow, that is really UGLY!" It makes the days merry.
I meant to write a restaurant review earlier, but I suppose I can do it now.
Thad and I recently (with 2 friends) went to try out the new restaurant Honest Abes, a burger place. It is located in Meadow lane Plaza at 70th and Vine in Lincoln. The restaurant itself is a small hole in the wall, seating for about 25, as long as you don't mind sharing a table with others. You are able to see what to order to the large chalkboard covered in choices. It seems there are a few standard burgers they always have, as well as several interesting choices that rotate. I ordered the "Aphrodite" which was an excellent burger with feta, spinach, tomato chutney, pickled red onions and cucumber yogurt sauce. While this sounds like an "interesting" concoction, it was very flavorful and worth trying. The ingredients were all very fresh, and the burger patty itself was perfectly seasoned. Thad had a burger that rotates into the menu and I admit I've already forgotten what it was called. It was topped with a Cajun coleslaw, a firey dressing, jalapenos, and spinach, and based on the lack of food left over I can assume it was quite delicious also. For the vegetarians out there, you can substitute a portabella mushroom cap for any burger. One member of our group did that and seemed pleased. There are side options such as fries, onion rings, soup, and even a few salads. All in all, it was a very good meal. Great portions and prices. We will definitely make a trip back.
And the BOOK REVIEW
I just finished The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow. This is a historical fiction that takes place in Germany as the Nazis begin to take over and threaten the livelihoods of the Jews. The main character, Karl, is of Jewish descent, but his family doesn't practice the religion nor have much familiarity with the traditions. As the Nazis begin to gain control over school and students begin joining Hitler Youth groups, he is targeted by boys at school as they know he has Jewish heritage. After being beaten up by a group of boys at school, Karl has to work as a server for his fathers art show at the family's gallery. He tries to pass off his injuries as "falling down the stairs" but one of his parents client's, famed boxer Max Schmeling, notices an injury from a fight when he sees it. His father trades him a painting for boxing lessons from Max for Karl. Karl slowly learns to fight and is able to gain muscle and strength as well. Max is in and out from teaching him as he travels to America often to set up fights, and he is trying to get one with Joe Louis, a famed American boxer. We see the lives of Karl's family get worse as restrictions cause them to close their gallery and the treatment of Jews gets worse and worse.
I that the writing was very well done, the story kept me interested. It is still so tough to hear how people were treated and how so many others didn't agree with what was going on and yet just let it happen. If you are a fan of historical fiction or even like hearing some history on boxing, this is a great choice to read.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
I'm not a "Twihard" more like a "Twisoft"
Tonight several friends and I went and saw the movie conclusion to the Twilight series by seeing Breaking Dawn pt 2. I won't say I am a "Twihard" as I didn't wait in line for hours on end to see the midnight premeir, nor dress up, hiss at Bella, wear a Team Edward or Jacob shirt (Team Edward by the way), but I have been to a few opening nights and do enjoy the series. This series is no where near cinematic greatness, but I admit, I find it enjoyable. There were a few times where it deviated from the text (which is inevitable in adaptations) but I was satisfied with the finale. It even seemed over "cheesed" from the previous films, as if some of the tensions and comments were intended to have that affect, and it worked. I giggled, I cringed, I enjoyed. If you like the franchise, it is worth it.
On to some books. I feel like I have read several books and not put up any reviews, epic fail in my book blog. I am currently reading more than I should at once, and story lines are starting to blend together, but I continue to attempt to balance my school reads, home reads, car reads, in order to ingest as much story telling as possible. I am reading Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter (Seth Grahame-Smith) and Confessions of a Murder Suspect (James Patterson) at home. I am listening to A Storm of Swords (George R.R. Martin) in the car to and from school, and just finished Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare at school. I am excited to start The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan tomorrow. :)
Since I just finished Clockwork Angel, I figured I should talk about that one.
This text is the first in a prequel series called The Infernal Devices, which leads into the Mortal Instruments series- which has City of Bones (will be a movie soon).
The book takes place in early 1900s London. The main character, Tessa Gray, comes from America at the request of her brother. When she arrives a pair of sisters aptly named "The Dark Sisters" greet her, trap her in their mansion, and make her realize her powers to "change" which can involve morphing into other people dead or alive. Eventually we meet members of the Clave, which involve Shadowhunters who help govern supernatural characters such as downworlders like demons, vampires, warlocks. Those without powers are "mundane." When Tessa is freed by 2 young male shadowhunters, she goes with them to "the insitute" a safe house and seeks their help in finding her brother. We see tensions in the relationship between Tessa and Will (a shadow hunter), does he love her, is it hate? Young readers will delight in the relationship, it continues the fantasy relationship that we ladies love to read. A damsel in slight distress, the bad boy who doesn't want to admit his feelings. Eventually you read of a great battle, misdirection, and of course, the end leaves you hanging. (You have to read book 2 Clockwork Prince). Much like within the Percy Jackson series, the mundanes or mortals see none of what is really going on around them thanks to glamours.
Dark and enjoyable, get through the series in time for City of Bones.
I hope to finish my other texts over Thanksgiving break. Finally a break! I am quite excited to have a little "nothing" to do.
On to some books. I feel like I have read several books and not put up any reviews, epic fail in my book blog. I am currently reading more than I should at once, and story lines are starting to blend together, but I continue to attempt to balance my school reads, home reads, car reads, in order to ingest as much story telling as possible. I am reading Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter (Seth Grahame-Smith) and Confessions of a Murder Suspect (James Patterson) at home. I am listening to A Storm of Swords (George R.R. Martin) in the car to and from school, and just finished Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare at school. I am excited to start The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan tomorrow. :)
Since I just finished Clockwork Angel, I figured I should talk about that one.
This text is the first in a prequel series called The Infernal Devices, which leads into the Mortal Instruments series- which has City of Bones (will be a movie soon).
The book takes place in early 1900s London. The main character, Tessa Gray, comes from America at the request of her brother. When she arrives a pair of sisters aptly named "The Dark Sisters" greet her, trap her in their mansion, and make her realize her powers to "change" which can involve morphing into other people dead or alive. Eventually we meet members of the Clave, which involve Shadowhunters who help govern supernatural characters such as downworlders like demons, vampires, warlocks. Those without powers are "mundane." When Tessa is freed by 2 young male shadowhunters, she goes with them to "the insitute" a safe house and seeks their help in finding her brother. We see tensions in the relationship between Tessa and Will (a shadow hunter), does he love her, is it hate? Young readers will delight in the relationship, it continues the fantasy relationship that we ladies love to read. A damsel in slight distress, the bad boy who doesn't want to admit his feelings. Eventually you read of a great battle, misdirection, and of course, the end leaves you hanging. (You have to read book 2 Clockwork Prince). Much like within the Percy Jackson series, the mundanes or mortals see none of what is really going on around them thanks to glamours.
Dark and enjoyable, get through the series in time for City of Bones.
I hope to finish my other texts over Thanksgiving break. Finally a break! I am quite excited to have a little "nothing" to do.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Revisiting a Classic
We are at the end of the quarter, or rather very near it. Only 3 days left (including today) and 1st quarter is complete, only 3 to go. I feel the school year is flying back, even faster than the last few years. I wonder if it is because I am (dare I say it?) enjoying my job quite a bit more than the previous years. Don't get me wrong, I liked teaching English 11, but I feel I have found my fit, my niche. After that introduction, off to another whimsical anecdote straight out of junior high.
My 7th grade speech class (this is the 2nd rotation) is off to a great start in writing their 3 point speeches. They have graphic organizers to help them write for structure, as well as an explanation page of what needs to go in the speech, along with their speech on note cards. I gave them paperclips to hold all these materials together as I keep their items in a folder in class (to avoid the "but I forgot all my materials at home AGAIN!"). During the 1st rotation, I did the same thing with my students but on the day the paperclips were given, one student formed it into a projectile, threw it across the room, missed his target and hit me square in the right lens of my glasses (I don't often wear my glasses). I was furious, and the 7th grade saw the first ever (and only) explosion into Ms. Incredible Hulk. No there was no destruction, just some yelling about throwing things, "shooting your eye out" business. Needless to say, when I handed out these paperclips I very carefully explained how a paperclip is to be used, to stay on their papers, and never ever be turned into anything but a paperclip. I never thought I would have to explain paper clip use, but this is just another thing I have learned from 7th grade. Oh, and avoid offering the suggest of using rubberbands, that is a whole different story. They keep me on my toes!
On to the reviews:
I revisited a classic last week: Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes. I don't recall ever reading this one before, but all our 9th grade read it for class so I thought I better know what is going on in case they ever need help. The main character, Charlie Gordon, has learning disabilities and a low I.Q. He is in his 30s, has worked janitorial jobs in a friend of his Uncle's bakery for the last 15 (?) years. We get all our information as we read Charlie's "Progress Reports." They are journal entries where he details his thoughts, feeling, etc. The spelling/grammar is terrible in the beginning entries as Charlie always struggled to learn and does not retain information well. We learn that he is signed up to do a scientific research experiment where he will me made "smart." A lab rat named Algernon underwent the same experiment and was able to raise his intelligence, which is why they wanted to test a human subject. As Charlie's intelligence increases, we learn of the despicable home life he had (by his mother and sister), how those he thought of as his friends were often laughing at him and taking advantage of him, and generalities on how society often views those with disabilities. As his learning increases, you see the change in his progress reports in mechanics, how relationships, change. I thought it was a very poignant story as it makes us look into our own biases as we see how things change for Charlie. Eventually Charlie far surpasses the intelligence of those around him, taking the lead on research of his own experiment, but his time is limited. I found the ending to be very sad, but I won't go into any more detail as it is worth a read and spoilers and never any fun. I know that students often complain about the books they have to read, but I enjoyed Flowers for Algernon, it made me feel a range of emotions and tells much about the human spirit and psyche.
I also read a fantastic YA lit book called Wonder Struck by Brian Selznick. This is the same author who wrote The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which one a Caldecott medal (award for illustrations). Like with Hugo, this book has fantastic illustrations, pencil shade drawings that left me feeling like I would have smudges all over the pages and my fingers. They contain such great detail that as a reader you spend just as much time looking at the page as you would reading a page. This story follows Ben, whom just lost his mother and is searching for his father (whom he never met). This is written out, we also see the story of a girl named Rose, told through the illustrations. Ben discovers that his father lived in New York through some clues he found in his mother's room. The night he find's these, he picks up a phone to call the number of a bookstore given to his mother by his father. Lightning strikes the house at this same moment, causing the already deaf in one ear Ben to go deaf in the other. He still runs away from home to make his journey to NYC. Through the illustrations we see Rose also run to NYC and both end up at the Museum of Natural History. The parallel stories will eventually intertwine, revealing a heartwarming ending that satisfied. Writing was great, illustrations were superb, worth reading.
My 7th grade speech class (this is the 2nd rotation) is off to a great start in writing their 3 point speeches. They have graphic organizers to help them write for structure, as well as an explanation page of what needs to go in the speech, along with their speech on note cards. I gave them paperclips to hold all these materials together as I keep their items in a folder in class (to avoid the "but I forgot all my materials at home AGAIN!"). During the 1st rotation, I did the same thing with my students but on the day the paperclips were given, one student formed it into a projectile, threw it across the room, missed his target and hit me square in the right lens of my glasses (I don't often wear my glasses). I was furious, and the 7th grade saw the first ever (and only) explosion into Ms. Incredible Hulk. No there was no destruction, just some yelling about throwing things, "shooting your eye out" business. Needless to say, when I handed out these paperclips I very carefully explained how a paperclip is to be used, to stay on their papers, and never ever be turned into anything but a paperclip. I never thought I would have to explain paper clip use, but this is just another thing I have learned from 7th grade. Oh, and avoid offering the suggest of using rubberbands, that is a whole different story. They keep me on my toes!
On to the reviews:
I revisited a classic last week: Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes. I don't recall ever reading this one before, but all our 9th grade read it for class so I thought I better know what is going on in case they ever need help. The main character, Charlie Gordon, has learning disabilities and a low I.Q. He is in his 30s, has worked janitorial jobs in a friend of his Uncle's bakery for the last 15 (?) years. We get all our information as we read Charlie's "Progress Reports." They are journal entries where he details his thoughts, feeling, etc. The spelling/grammar is terrible in the beginning entries as Charlie always struggled to learn and does not retain information well. We learn that he is signed up to do a scientific research experiment where he will me made "smart." A lab rat named Algernon underwent the same experiment and was able to raise his intelligence, which is why they wanted to test a human subject. As Charlie's intelligence increases, we learn of the despicable home life he had (by his mother and sister), how those he thought of as his friends were often laughing at him and taking advantage of him, and generalities on how society often views those with disabilities. As his learning increases, you see the change in his progress reports in mechanics, how relationships, change. I thought it was a very poignant story as it makes us look into our own biases as we see how things change for Charlie. Eventually Charlie far surpasses the intelligence of those around him, taking the lead on research of his own experiment, but his time is limited. I found the ending to be very sad, but I won't go into any more detail as it is worth a read and spoilers and never any fun. I know that students often complain about the books they have to read, but I enjoyed Flowers for Algernon, it made me feel a range of emotions and tells much about the human spirit and psyche.
I also read a fantastic YA lit book called Wonder Struck by Brian Selznick. This is the same author who wrote The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which one a Caldecott medal (award for illustrations). Like with Hugo, this book has fantastic illustrations, pencil shade drawings that left me feeling like I would have smudges all over the pages and my fingers. They contain such great detail that as a reader you spend just as much time looking at the page as you would reading a page. This story follows Ben, whom just lost his mother and is searching for his father (whom he never met). This is written out, we also see the story of a girl named Rose, told through the illustrations. Ben discovers that his father lived in New York through some clues he found in his mother's room. The night he find's these, he picks up a phone to call the number of a bookstore given to his mother by his father. Lightning strikes the house at this same moment, causing the already deaf in one ear Ben to go deaf in the other. He still runs away from home to make his journey to NYC. Through the illustrations we see Rose also run to NYC and both end up at the Museum of Natural History. The parallel stories will eventually intertwine, revealing a heartwarming ending that satisfied. Writing was great, illustrations were superb, worth reading.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Middle School Antics
This year I picked up a section of 7th grade speech. This is an exploratory class, so I see every 7th grade student in 6 week rotations. These grades don't count in their GPAs, but are simply to give them a taste of some electives. I wasn't completely excited to teach 7th grade as the last three year I taught English 11 (juniors) and didn't have too much desire to teach middle school; however, I was willing to give it a try.
Wow- middle school students have ENERGY! I can't imagine going through that class several times a day, once in the day leaves me exhausted. And surprisingly they are willing to try, they try doing the crazy warm ups, modeling of activities and other games I incorporate into speech. (This is something I didn't experience with high school, some tried- most complained.) Yet, what I hadn't realized when I started teaching is how much you most go over rules- everyday! I didn't know that when we discussed how an oral interp of drama means no touching and they get their scripts, I would have to again explain that no, you can't really pull her hair. I haven't confiscated this many rubber bands or projectile paper clips in my life. And, new to me, I never realized I would have to ask the boys to get their arms out of their shirts and stop pretending to be T-Rexes. (Yet, I was giggling on the inside as they did look funny). I am into the 2nd week of my 2nd rotation, and while I never planned to teach 7th grade, I must say they keep me on my toes and give me some slight invigoration.
On to the book review:
Bruiser by Neal Shusterman
This was the last of the Golden Sower nominees that I needed to read, and it ties for one of my favorites. Bruiser is told through the eyes of 4 characters: Tennyson and Bronte (twin brother and sister), Bruiser (Brewster) and Cody (Brewster's brother). Tennyson and Bronte don't sound like your average 15 year old students, but their parents are both English professors, so I can imagine that vocabulary development was important. I feel like the writing was captivating as we were able to see the scenes through the eyes of these characters and get different perspectives. Bruiser's perspective is written in verse, and you will see why when you read the book. Bronte begins dating Bruiser (whom has a bad reputation) which irks Tennyson- so he begins to follow Bruiser. Tennyson sees that Bruiser's home life is terrible and even finds out a secret about his life, even accepting Bronte and Bruiser's relationship. The book takes on an almost "Green Mile" feel (John Coffee's character) when we learn about Bruiser's amazing secret. I found that it seemed realistic to how a person might take advantage of someone if they had the power's Bruiser has, and Shusterman chronicled the ways we use and abuse those we love well.
All in all, it was a great book and would appeal to young adults and adults alike.
Wow- middle school students have ENERGY! I can't imagine going through that class several times a day, once in the day leaves me exhausted. And surprisingly they are willing to try, they try doing the crazy warm ups, modeling of activities and other games I incorporate into speech. (This is something I didn't experience with high school, some tried- most complained.) Yet, what I hadn't realized when I started teaching is how much you most go over rules- everyday! I didn't know that when we discussed how an oral interp of drama means no touching and they get their scripts, I would have to again explain that no, you can't really pull her hair. I haven't confiscated this many rubber bands or projectile paper clips in my life. And, new to me, I never realized I would have to ask the boys to get their arms out of their shirts and stop pretending to be T-Rexes. (Yet, I was giggling on the inside as they did look funny). I am into the 2nd week of my 2nd rotation, and while I never planned to teach 7th grade, I must say they keep me on my toes and give me some slight invigoration.
On to the book review:
Bruiser by Neal Shusterman
This was the last of the Golden Sower nominees that I needed to read, and it ties for one of my favorites. Bruiser is told through the eyes of 4 characters: Tennyson and Bronte (twin brother and sister), Bruiser (Brewster) and Cody (Brewster's brother). Tennyson and Bronte don't sound like your average 15 year old students, but their parents are both English professors, so I can imagine that vocabulary development was important. I feel like the writing was captivating as we were able to see the scenes through the eyes of these characters and get different perspectives. Bruiser's perspective is written in verse, and you will see why when you read the book. Bronte begins dating Bruiser (whom has a bad reputation) which irks Tennyson- so he begins to follow Bruiser. Tennyson sees that Bruiser's home life is terrible and even finds out a secret about his life, even accepting Bronte and Bruiser's relationship. The book takes on an almost "Green Mile" feel (John Coffee's character) when we learn about Bruiser's amazing secret. I found that it seemed realistic to how a person might take advantage of someone if they had the power's Bruiser has, and Shusterman chronicled the ways we use and abuse those we love well.
All in all, it was a great book and would appeal to young adults and adults alike.
Monday, September 24, 2012
You Got a Little Something on Your Nose
Before I get into my latest review, I must share a story from the week. While making breakfast one morning after our morning run (d'Artagnan and I), Dart disappeared for a moment only to return to the kitchen with a little trail of some substance on his nose. Kitty Litter! We have had Dart for 4 months now and he has left the litter box alone, but recently discovered the (joys?) of eating cat poop. Now we find each time he disappears, there is that little something on his nose giving it away. Time for an intervention .
The Review
I just finished the book The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. (I might have mentined it briefly in my last post) I wasn't sure if I was going to like this text at first, but the kids and staff at the high school library nominated it for our book club. After finishing, I must say it is definitely a worthy read. The story centers around two teen characters, Hazel and Gus, who both had cancer and are in a support group for young people who have/had cancer. Both of their lives have been drastically affected by their illness. There is some criticism about how the dialogue of the two characters, as they both sound "academic" in their word usage and eloquence in speaking, but I say it was fitting. While we may complain, not all teens fit in the realm we lump them in. Some can and do speak with a certain refinement. Hazel is a reader and discusses her favorite book, which she shares with Gus, showing where her language comes from and how her thoughts may have been formed. Hazel and Gus go on an adventure to find the author of this beloved text, there is happiness, love, sadness, all facets of emotion that make a great read.
I am on my last Golden Sower nominee- Bruiser and also Graceling. Both books have supernatural elements but are quite different, I hope to complete and write about them soon!
Well, I'm off to make an intervention banner for Dart.
The Review
I just finished the book The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. (I might have mentined it briefly in my last post) I wasn't sure if I was going to like this text at first, but the kids and staff at the high school library nominated it for our book club. After finishing, I must say it is definitely a worthy read. The story centers around two teen characters, Hazel and Gus, who both had cancer and are in a support group for young people who have/had cancer. Both of their lives have been drastically affected by their illness. There is some criticism about how the dialogue of the two characters, as they both sound "academic" in their word usage and eloquence in speaking, but I say it was fitting. While we may complain, not all teens fit in the realm we lump them in. Some can and do speak with a certain refinement. Hazel is a reader and discusses her favorite book, which she shares with Gus, showing where her language comes from and how her thoughts may have been formed. Hazel and Gus go on an adventure to find the author of this beloved text, there is happiness, love, sadness, all facets of emotion that make a great read.
I am on my last Golden Sower nominee- Bruiser and also Graceling. Both books have supernatural elements but are quite different, I hope to complete and write about them soon!
Well, I'm off to make an intervention banner for Dart.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
50 Shades of Dreadful Dialogue
I have heard a lot of talk about 50 Shades of Grey but hadn't picked it up all summer. I heard bits of plot, but it sounds like most people pick it up for the controversy. Some people stated that it wasn't all that shocking, others said they had to put it down beacuse the overt sex scenes made them uncomfortable.
Well, after borrowing the text from my friend Abby, I tried it- finally. AND, I didn't finish it. No- it wasn't because I was shocked (and yes some scenes are definately in the variety to make be blush), or because I was even offended by those scenes, it was the fact that the dialogue between characters was dreadful! I realize, yes, there is going to be cheesy exchanges ala porn with a bad plot line, but I had a terrible time with character believeability. The vapid thought process of the main character Ana made it hard to believe that she was to believe an "intellectual" whom was a lover of classic British literature. Some depth in her vocabulary, nonwithstanding, the "thought process" and her inner dialogue drove me nuts. The clearly controlling character of Grey was bothersome, and maybe I didn't give it enough time to hear the full story, but I didn't want to devote any more time to this text. If steamy sex scenes are what I'm after, I can clearly find the romance section in the local library. Over hyped, as simple as that. There are too many books out there for me to waste my time on one I do not enjoy.
On a more positive note, I have been reading through Nebraska's Golden Sower nominees for this year and have almost finised. The Running Dream, Girl Stolen, and The Red Umberella are in the lead for my favorite. I am also currently listening to another nominee, The Cardturner by Louis Sachar (of Holes fame). I am really enjoying this text, about a teen who helps his blind Uncle by being his card turner for bridge. The family pushes him into helping the Uncle as they mainly have an interest in being left in his will (this is a great Uncle) but we see a relationship develop as the story does. The rules of bridge are explained a bit as we go through the story and I find myself trying to figure out how to play the game. I think I want to now learn bridge, but I am not sure if I know anyone who plays it. We should bring back card game nights and board game nights, not just as a quirky night only once in a while.
Well, after borrowing the text from my friend Abby, I tried it- finally. AND, I didn't finish it. No- it wasn't because I was shocked (and yes some scenes are definately in the variety to make be blush), or because I was even offended by those scenes, it was the fact that the dialogue between characters was dreadful! I realize, yes, there is going to be cheesy exchanges ala porn with a bad plot line, but I had a terrible time with character believeability. The vapid thought process of the main character Ana made it hard to believe that she was to believe an "intellectual" whom was a lover of classic British literature. Some depth in her vocabulary, nonwithstanding, the "thought process" and her inner dialogue drove me nuts. The clearly controlling character of Grey was bothersome, and maybe I didn't give it enough time to hear the full story, but I didn't want to devote any more time to this text. If steamy sex scenes are what I'm after, I can clearly find the romance section in the local library. Over hyped, as simple as that. There are too many books out there for me to waste my time on one I do not enjoy.
On a more positive note, I have been reading through Nebraska's Golden Sower nominees for this year and have almost finised. The Running Dream, Girl Stolen, and The Red Umberella are in the lead for my favorite. I am also currently listening to another nominee, The Cardturner by Louis Sachar (of Holes fame). I am really enjoying this text, about a teen who helps his blind Uncle by being his card turner for bridge. The family pushes him into helping the Uncle as they mainly have an interest in being left in his will (this is a great Uncle) but we see a relationship develop as the story does. The rules of bridge are explained a bit as we go through the story and I find myself trying to figure out how to play the game. I think I want to now learn bridge, but I am not sure if I know anyone who plays it. We should bring back card game nights and board game nights, not just as a quirky night only once in a while.
Monday, August 20, 2012
Sleeping with the lights on
I am not very fond of horror movies. I know they aren't real, filled with cheap scares, and most often "not that scary" to most people, but I will always have nightmares and night terrors after watching one. This information aside, Thad got the movie Woman in Black from the library and as it was due, we had to watch it. I sat silently next to him on the couch, making up reasons to leave the living room such as ooh, it looks like d'Artagnan needs to go to the bathroom. Hmmm, I should take your dishes to the sink. I think I should really catch up with a words with friends play. Yet, I still look at the screen at the wrong parts. They foreshadow the horror with music and yet, I fall for it. So here it comes again, another night where I keep the covers tight over my face, feel my heart racing with every sound, and turn the bathroom light on when I "see something." I don't know why I put myself through it!
This probably stems from the fact that I watched Pet Semetary when I was around 6 (thanks to my baby sitter) and didn't sleep for years. Now I can watch movies from that era and laugh, but that one will forever terrify me. Then, I watched one scene from The Exorcist probably around 10. Even worse idea. I love the idea of ghosts and paranormal research ( sightings are a story for another time), but the posession idea leaves my knucles white and my heart racing. I blame this on the Catholic priest at an event we had to go to for CCD called "Going Nuts for Jesus." A priest there did a dissertation on Ouija boards and possession and the reality of them. Did not help my fear of the things that go bump in the night.
On the bright side, school is going well. I was a bit worried about teaching middle school. While the subject area isn't my forte, I find their energy contagious and that they are quite willing to try anything. I was especially excited to see many of the young men in class so willing to be volunteers for our discussion of the communication cycle. In fact, 4 boys today asked to share a skit they created in their basement to Ice Ice Baby. I shall for ever be impressed with 7th grade boys willingness to be embarassed and dance in front of everyone. I hope they keep that willingness.
This probably stems from the fact that I watched Pet Semetary when I was around 6 (thanks to my baby sitter) and didn't sleep for years. Now I can watch movies from that era and laugh, but that one will forever terrify me. Then, I watched one scene from The Exorcist probably around 10. Even worse idea. I love the idea of ghosts and paranormal research ( sightings are a story for another time), but the posession idea leaves my knucles white and my heart racing. I blame this on the Catholic priest at an event we had to go to for CCD called "Going Nuts for Jesus." A priest there did a dissertation on Ouija boards and possession and the reality of them. Did not help my fear of the things that go bump in the night.
On the bright side, school is going well. I was a bit worried about teaching middle school. While the subject area isn't my forte, I find their energy contagious and that they are quite willing to try anything. I was especially excited to see many of the young men in class so willing to be volunteers for our discussion of the communication cycle. In fact, 4 boys today asked to share a skit they created in their basement to Ice Ice Baby. I shall for ever be impressed with 7th grade boys willingness to be embarassed and dance in front of everyone. I hope they keep that willingness.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Disaster Day
Today was not a good day. In the words of Alexander, it was a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. The day started when I heard Thad shout "Oh, Crap" as his alarm never went off so he got a late start to the day. Alarmgate. He only overslept by about 15 minutes, but our beloved furry child d'Artagnan uses those 15 minutes to take his sweet time to find the right spot in which to poop. There really isn't a delicate way to put that. I don't know if it is all dogs or just ours, but for some reason he must pace back and forth, turn round and round, sniff segment after segment of tall grass before finding the spot to fertilize.
Fast forward a few hours. I went in to school to continue trying to make myself feel better by getting a few tasks done and preparing for the school year. I am starting (?) to know what to do? (inflection on the end of that statement!) I get back from school after a few hours- I also went to Walgreens to pick up a prescription for the allergies I have been dealing with. Insurance put a preauthorization hold on it and it still hasn't been cleared (I went to the Dr. Friday). I will continue to cough, hack, wheeze in my sleep until this comes through. Off that tangent, I let Dart out of his kennel and go heat up some leftovers from the fridge. I find out a short time after this that Dart has decided to poop on the carpet in the formal living room. Yes, we have a formal living room. It is a waste of space, I'm turning it into a library- details to follow. I only find out after poopgate 2012 that Thad didn't have time to do the ritual passes in the backyard and he forgot to tell me to take the dog out. We're not being cruel to the dog, so please don't yell at me. When I head back to school on Thursday Dart will be inside for many hours, so I haven't been walking him or taking him to the bathroom during "school hours" in order to make sure he can make it through the day. Let's hope this was a one time only deal.
1. Late wake up= no dog poop
2. No dog poop= poop in the formal living room.
3. Completely unrelated, but after doing a load of laundry and sitting on the couch to do some reading, I realize. Dang, the washer doesn't sound right. I walk towards the laundry room and feel a soggy carpet greet my toes. Enter hallway and into laundry room. Water. Water all over the floor. Water flowing down the steps into the basement. Somehow something either clogged in the drain, or the washing machine got stuck in the fill stage, either way- I cleaned up a lot of water. Luckily, I don't believe there was any major damage- waiting for a few cords to dry before we see if they are salvageable. I shall call this incident Watergate.
On the bright side, I haven't washed those floors in a while. This also got me out of cooking (not that I don't like cooking). I really didn't want to make a casserole after washing, scrubbing, wringing, dragging items. We went to the China Buffet Mongolian Grill (think HuHot). I really like this place, slightly cheaper than HuHot- but includes regular Chinese dishes and crab rangoons on buffet. And soft serve, I like soft serve.
Here's to tomorrow going better.
Fast forward a few hours. I went in to school to continue trying to make myself feel better by getting a few tasks done and preparing for the school year. I am starting (?) to know what to do? (inflection on the end of that statement!) I get back from school after a few hours- I also went to Walgreens to pick up a prescription for the allergies I have been dealing with. Insurance put a preauthorization hold on it and it still hasn't been cleared (I went to the Dr. Friday). I will continue to cough, hack, wheeze in my sleep until this comes through. Off that tangent, I let Dart out of his kennel and go heat up some leftovers from the fridge. I find out a short time after this that Dart has decided to poop on the carpet in the formal living room. Yes, we have a formal living room. It is a waste of space, I'm turning it into a library- details to follow. I only find out after poopgate 2012 that Thad didn't have time to do the ritual passes in the backyard and he forgot to tell me to take the dog out. We're not being cruel to the dog, so please don't yell at me. When I head back to school on Thursday Dart will be inside for many hours, so I haven't been walking him or taking him to the bathroom during "school hours" in order to make sure he can make it through the day. Let's hope this was a one time only deal.
1. Late wake up= no dog poop
2. No dog poop= poop in the formal living room.
3. Completely unrelated, but after doing a load of laundry and sitting on the couch to do some reading, I realize. Dang, the washer doesn't sound right. I walk towards the laundry room and feel a soggy carpet greet my toes. Enter hallway and into laundry room. Water. Water all over the floor. Water flowing down the steps into the basement. Somehow something either clogged in the drain, or the washing machine got stuck in the fill stage, either way- I cleaned up a lot of water. Luckily, I don't believe there was any major damage- waiting for a few cords to dry before we see if they are salvageable. I shall call this incident Watergate.
On the bright side, I haven't washed those floors in a while. This also got me out of cooking (not that I don't like cooking). I really didn't want to make a casserole after washing, scrubbing, wringing, dragging items. We went to the China Buffet Mongolian Grill (think HuHot). I really like this place, slightly cheaper than HuHot- but includes regular Chinese dishes and crab rangoons on buffet. And soft serve, I like soft serve.
Here's to tomorrow going better.
Monday, August 6, 2012
The Inevitable End of Summer Vacation
August. Season of county (and state) fairs, hot weather, our wedding anniversary (Happy 1 year Thad), and the inevitable "end" of summer. I get to report back to school on Thursday while students get a few more days of freedom. While I bemoan the end of summer I do admit I am quite excited for the school year. I get to start my new position of part time high school media specialist, reading strat teacher and 7th grade speech teacher. One of these I have done before (reading strat) all others are new territory. This fills me with both excitement and fear. Excitement as it is something new and wonderful to learn, fear as I feel like I have no idea what I am doing.
I was a city public librarian for a few years while I finished my teaching certificate. I loved it, this led me to decide after teaching English for a few years (11th grade- non AP), that I wanted to get back into the library. After completing my 3rd year of English, and having only just begun my classes I was given the opportunity to switch to this position. I should feel comfortable as I have had experience in the public sector of this position, yet I feel I haven't been able to shadow or experience what it will be like in the school setting. I have gone to school several times in July and August, but I still have no idea where to begin or how to prepare. It is safe to assume that everything will work out, I'll figure out what to do eventually, but like many of the students, it simply makes me nervous for the school year to begin.
Book Review
I recently just finished the book Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver for a book club in which I belong. This is good as I need to start delving into the abundance of YA lit that is available and that my students will devour through the year. This book will probably appeal mostly to female audiences, but that doesn't mean men shouldn't give it a chance. The book follows the main character of Samantha, a high school senior and 3 of her friends. The girls are the popular girls in school and after a night of partying, get into a car accident. Samantha is able to relive this day over and over (think Groundhog day) until she is able to get it right. Reading it, at times it made me cringe as the girls are quite vicious to some of their peers and it is sad to know that things like this do go on. There is the tradition teenage romance fluff, parent/sibling relationships, etc, yet I thought it read quickly and had some poignant morals the main character realizes in her journey.
I have just started Sarah Dessen's Just Listen, and then will hope to tackle the Nebraska Golden Sower nominees. I hope to review them all if you care to know about a few good reads in the young adult department.
I was a city public librarian for a few years while I finished my teaching certificate. I loved it, this led me to decide after teaching English for a few years (11th grade- non AP), that I wanted to get back into the library. After completing my 3rd year of English, and having only just begun my classes I was given the opportunity to switch to this position. I should feel comfortable as I have had experience in the public sector of this position, yet I feel I haven't been able to shadow or experience what it will be like in the school setting. I have gone to school several times in July and August, but I still have no idea where to begin or how to prepare. It is safe to assume that everything will work out, I'll figure out what to do eventually, but like many of the students, it simply makes me nervous for the school year to begin.
Book Review
I recently just finished the book Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver for a book club in which I belong. This is good as I need to start delving into the abundance of YA lit that is available and that my students will devour through the year. This book will probably appeal mostly to female audiences, but that doesn't mean men shouldn't give it a chance. The book follows the main character of Samantha, a high school senior and 3 of her friends. The girls are the popular girls in school and after a night of partying, get into a car accident. Samantha is able to relive this day over and over (think Groundhog day) until she is able to get it right. Reading it, at times it made me cringe as the girls are quite vicious to some of their peers and it is sad to know that things like this do go on. There is the tradition teenage romance fluff, parent/sibling relationships, etc, yet I thought it read quickly and had some poignant morals the main character realizes in her journey.
I have just started Sarah Dessen's Just Listen, and then will hope to tackle the Nebraska Golden Sower nominees. I hope to review them all if you care to know about a few good reads in the young adult department.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Welcome to Megan
I tried doing a blog once in college, but I gave up on it. In a few of my technology classes I have noticed that we are encouraged to use blogs to do professional networking. So, I'm jumping back on the bandwagon and blogging once again.
Here is what to expect when reading my blog. Humor- whenever I do write, which isn't very often, I try to put a bit of humor in it. Whether it is intended wit (not often), situations of my demise, or lack of checking my writing, it will slip in.
Second, I often find that I have trouble sleeping at night as I can't always shut down my mind. I am constantly thinking about the events of the day or what is to go on in my classroom the next day. This (much to the chagrin of my husband, Thad) often leads to me making noise and gestures in my sleep. So, I shall try writing about what is on my mind whether it be fears, plans, ideas, etc. Consider it an online journal.
Third, I would like to discuss the latest book (adult or YA for the high school librarian in me), restaurant, technology tool, whatever.
Last, what I learned today. We learn so much each and everyday, so I will share at least one thing that I learned.
While running today, I got the idea to start a blog once again. I have taken a bit of a hiatus from running recently and decided I needed to get back in the habit. I started out the summer doing a run every morning, but when Thad and I decided to adopt a dog (d'Artagnan) the running stopped. I don't mean to use the dog as an excuse, but I'm going to. He is a rescue from the Capital Humane Society and came to them as a lost dog. Whomever his previous owner may not have treated him all that well (this is speculation), and he was scared of every new person he met, every sound he heard, and would not walk well on a leash. We have been working on leash training and walking each morning, so running took a backseat.
While running, I began to think of how I would like to write. I have always enjoyed reading humorists such as Dave Berry, I love reading Bill Bryson or even human interest pieces by local writers such as Rainbow Rowell or Cindy Lange-Kubic. I will never be at that level, but they do influence me. Although, if you want to pay me to write or syndicate me I will abide.
So here it begans, the life and times of a not so eloquent writer.
What I learned today:
That my husband is a wonderful and patient person as 1. I have had a cold for more than a week and been coughing constantly at night, 2. the dog snores quite loudly, 3. when the cat bathes at night, her collar jingles loudly. Thank you for not trying to smother us all in our sleep for not letting you have any.
Here is what to expect when reading my blog. Humor- whenever I do write, which isn't very often, I try to put a bit of humor in it. Whether it is intended wit (not often), situations of my demise, or lack of checking my writing, it will slip in.
Second, I often find that I have trouble sleeping at night as I can't always shut down my mind. I am constantly thinking about the events of the day or what is to go on in my classroom the next day. This (much to the chagrin of my husband, Thad) often leads to me making noise and gestures in my sleep. So, I shall try writing about what is on my mind whether it be fears, plans, ideas, etc. Consider it an online journal.
Third, I would like to discuss the latest book (adult or YA for the high school librarian in me), restaurant, technology tool, whatever.
Last, what I learned today. We learn so much each and everyday, so I will share at least one thing that I learned.
While running today, I got the idea to start a blog once again. I have taken a bit of a hiatus from running recently and decided I needed to get back in the habit. I started out the summer doing a run every morning, but when Thad and I decided to adopt a dog (d'Artagnan) the running stopped. I don't mean to use the dog as an excuse, but I'm going to. He is a rescue from the Capital Humane Society and came to them as a lost dog. Whomever his previous owner may not have treated him all that well (this is speculation), and he was scared of every new person he met, every sound he heard, and would not walk well on a leash. We have been working on leash training and walking each morning, so running took a backseat.
While running, I began to think of how I would like to write. I have always enjoyed reading humorists such as Dave Berry, I love reading Bill Bryson or even human interest pieces by local writers such as Rainbow Rowell or Cindy Lange-Kubic. I will never be at that level, but they do influence me. Although, if you want to pay me to write or syndicate me I will abide.
So here it begans, the life and times of a not so eloquent writer.
What I learned today:
That my husband is a wonderful and patient person as 1. I have had a cold for more than a week and been coughing constantly at night, 2. the dog snores quite loudly, 3. when the cat bathes at night, her collar jingles loudly. Thank you for not trying to smother us all in our sleep for not letting you have any.
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