Back to School

So, I'm back at work. We started school on Monday, just in time for a lovely dose of heat. The first three days have been just bearable. Today, though, was unbearable. It was our first full day, together until 3, no breaks or preps yet except for P.E. (poor kids!).  And yet, I tried to get through some lessons so as not to waste the long, long periods. To help things, the classroom took on a cave-like appearance - we drew the blinds, turned off the lights, closed the doors, and blasted the fans. As warm as it felt inside, though, it was much more pleasant than the dense outdoor heat. We sat on the floor just to avoid the sticky chairs, and drew/colored for the last 15 minutes of school.

Tomorrow, I've been told, is supposed to be better. However, I never see much difference once the temperature surpasses 90˚. So, to hear that it will be about 94˚ as opposed to 98˚ isn't much consolation, especially when we'll be celebrating our first school year Mass outside in the morning sun. Oh joy. 

But getting back to the fact that school has started again, I'm enjoying it so far. The kids are actually quite good, and I'm finally starting to get over missing "my kids". 

Happy New (School) Year

Why is it that I can't seem to get "excited" about the new school year? I keep dreading my new class, even though there are several children that I already know and like. It's only a very small minority that I'm concerned about, yet they monopolize my thoughts and make me anxious. Like three or four bad apples in the bunch. Unfortunately, I can't just chuck them out. Or can I???.....

Those Who Can Teach...

I can't even remember exactly how the saying goes, but it doesn't really matter. I don't think it was a good saying, anyway.

I've spent everyday this week in my classroom getting things ready for the new school year. I have a very enthusiastic aide who kindly took it upon herself to repaint most of my classroom, and then some. This has propelled me to go through every cupboard, every closet, into every rafter, in order to reorganize and rearrange things in a more effective manner (something I've wanted to do for years). I was always too afraid to throw things out, but after 5 years in that room, I think I've pretty well claimed it for my own and finally feel at liberty to do whatever I want with the space. So, it's a year of fresh beginnings, to go with the fresh coats of paint. I can now say that I know exactly where everything is. Now all I have to do is actually move the desks, do my bulletin boards, and figure out what the hell I'm doing the first day of school!

I'll post before and after pics soon.

As part of our principal's efforts to create bonding opportunities, he's purchased tickets for us to see the Giants play tomorrow. Should be fun - Go Giants!

6 Years and Counting

On August 3, 2008, Eric and I celebrated 6 years of marriage. We spent the weekend downtown. Our getaway included a stay at the Fairmont and dinner at the Grill on the Alley. We capped things off by watching the Giants game (well done Zito!). Champagne and chocolate dipped strawberries were a surprise treat from Eric's parents. We had a memorable time.

Building an Outdoor Space

Eric and I met with a "landscape consultant" this evening for the backyard. He was very knowledgeable, helpful, and most importantly, honest. He listened to our ideas and made some great suggestions. In the end, it was "the number" that was most important. Doing it ourselves would cost half the price. In reality, we have to decide whether we will actually do the work ourselves, do it well, and have it done in a reasonable amount of time. He quoted us 6-8 weeks, with an additional 4 weeks for design. In all, were we to decide to go with his company, we could have a yard in 3 months or less! I can't even imagine it, given that I've been looking at a sad, pathetic pile of ick and out-of-control weeds for years now. I'll keep you posted (no pun intended) on what we decide.

50 First Dates

I just watched 50 First Dates on USA and, naturally, cried almost everytime Drew Barrymore cried. I had forgotten how much I really liked this movie. I'm such a sap.

A Good Run

About two weeks ago I decided to start doing something for myself. Since having my daughter, I haven't seemed to be able to get rid of the weight I gained AFTER pregnancy (amazingly, I lost weight during the pregnancy, and was down 20 right after her birth). For the most part, I was confident, but when I would think about the ever-growing weight number, I would get depressed.

I've started walking/jogging three mornings a week. This morning I had what I consider my best workout yet - I burned almost 500 calories! It feels good to finally be doing something positive for myself.