Some things that have been on my mind lately, most of which I don't understand and most of which are trivial:
1. Why and how RadioShack is still in business. I'm not seeing the demand for a store that solely sells electronics and a Mickey Mouse phone here and there. Oh, and it has always been my experience, no matter what store or in what state, that the employees are annoyingly sarcastic...as opposed to funny sarcastic. They truly are the poster child for "Sarcasm is just one more free service we offer".
2. How athletes can complete a triatholon (particularly in the Olympic trials) without dying. Swimming to biking to running without stopping, ever?? Madness.
3. Joan Rivers' face.
4. Why Red Robin advertises in Florida when they have no locations here...same goes for Jack in the Box or as LB calls it, Death in the Box.
5. Why there are an abundance of nail places, sometimes more than one per plaza.
6. The fact that esurance.com advertises that because they are an online business entity, they are environmental...because they don't use paper.
7. Tyra Banks' show = a TV version of a tabloid.
That's all...fow now. Feel free to add.
7.31.2008
7.30.2008
The SRQ
I'm spending a few days visiting my parents before heading up to Hernando for April's wedding events this weekend. It's nice to be home and it's nice to be at a point in my life where I relate to my mom and dad not only as "parents" but also as people/friends/lifelong companions. I've felt this way about my relationship with my parents for a few years now, but the excitement of this aspect of our relationship never ceases to be refreshing. And I am exceedingly thankful. I spend most of the day-time with my mom (the morning person) and most of the evening/late night with my dad (Mr. John-Bauer-time. Go here if you want more info on JB time).
Yesterday, Mom and I spent hours sipping coffee and mulling over the woes of the education system (or issues at our respective schools), coming up with solutions, and laughing about some of the bullshit that occurs. We didn't change the problems of the world, but it felt good to get it all out on the table. I spent another 2 hrs. picking her brain over classroom procedures for my students this coming year. I have faith that my new plans will work, but sometimes I start to worry about this coming year...I cannot have a repeat of last year, student-behavior-wise, for their sake and for mine. I am hoping that having one year of teaching under my belt will make me more prepared. I suppose I need to tell the Capricorn in me to shut-up when it comes to expecting absolute perfection, especially in a classroom of 20+ students. Don't get me wrong, I expect great things and strive for that, but everything won't be wonderful all the time.
Anyways, that's it for now.
ps-does anyone understand the "Q" in "SRQ"? There are no areas in Sarasota County that start with a Q.
Yesterday, Mom and I spent hours sipping coffee and mulling over the woes of the education system (or issues at our respective schools), coming up with solutions, and laughing about some of the bullshit that occurs. We didn't change the problems of the world, but it felt good to get it all out on the table. I spent another 2 hrs. picking her brain over classroom procedures for my students this coming year. I have faith that my new plans will work, but sometimes I start to worry about this coming year...I cannot have a repeat of last year, student-behavior-wise, for their sake and for mine. I am hoping that having one year of teaching under my belt will make me more prepared. I suppose I need to tell the Capricorn in me to shut-up when it comes to expecting absolute perfection, especially in a classroom of 20+ students. Don't get me wrong, I expect great things and strive for that, but everything won't be wonderful all the time.
Anyways, that's it for now.
ps-does anyone understand the "Q" in "SRQ"? There are no areas in Sarasota County that start with a Q.
7.27.2008
In Passing
While riding my bike around the beaches yesterday, I came across a garage sale in Ponte Vedra so I stopped to take a look. I noticed a lot of painting supplies for sale and asked the lady attending to the items who it all belonged to. She introduced me to her daughter who used to be a painting student at UNF, so we started talking about professors and whatnot. We studied under many of the same. The impression I got was that this girl has stopped painting (thus the selling of the supplies); I wanted to ask why but figured that would be nosy. Anyways, I came away with a few items either I or my students can use for still-life AND she gave me (FOR FREE) a sweet drawing table! It is adjustable so that you can lay the drawing surface flat or at an angle. Flippin' awesome.
Speaking of not painting, that's something I haven't done this summer as much as anticipated. My mental reason for not painting has switched from "Ahhhh! I don't know what to paint! I'm having a block!" to "Meh, I don't really feel like it". Fear to Laziness (both equal forms of resistance). I started a series several weeks ago. Two of them are shown below and the third is still sitting on my easel halfway there. I can't really put my finger on what this is all about at this point in time. I normally have a better idea of what a series means or doesn't mean after I have "completed" it. I have inklings of where this is going or what it is based on, but it is still fluid. I suppose interpretations are always fluid.
I'm not expecting anyone to critique these but if you have a comment, have at it. They're posted here more for my own records.
Speaking of not painting, that's something I haven't done this summer as much as anticipated. My mental reason for not painting has switched from "Ahhhh! I don't know what to paint! I'm having a block!" to "Meh, I don't really feel like it". Fear to Laziness (both equal forms of resistance). I started a series several weeks ago. Two of them are shown below and the third is still sitting on my easel halfway there. I can't really put my finger on what this is all about at this point in time. I normally have a better idea of what a series means or doesn't mean after I have "completed" it. I have inklings of where this is going or what it is based on, but it is still fluid. I suppose interpretations are always fluid.
I'm not expecting anyone to critique these but if you have a comment, have at it. They're posted here more for my own records.
7.16.2008
Read me.
I was going to rant and rave about this book and how much I love it, but I've decided not to. And then I was going to talk about my spirituality at this point in my life (maybe in another post, at a later date). But I am too tired to do either of those things. I will say that this is one of the best books I have read in a while AND that if you are interested in reading a semi-autobiographical book about a woman who gets divorced, suffers from major depression and anxiety, travels to Italy, India, and Indonesia in pursuit of pleasure, devotion, and love, then have at it.I know this is a really sorry excuse for a post, but I'm at a loss for what to write about at this moment.
In short, read this book. It's pretty flippin' sweet.
7.15.2008
Namaste
I recently signed up for yoga classes at a local studio. This is something I have been wanting to do for years...ever since my first experience with kitkat...but it wasn't feasible as a college student to pay an extra $50+ per month for a membership somewhere. I am finally in a position, financially, to do this so I joined this studio thanks to my friend, Jennah. The yoga at this particular studio is based off of a practice developed by Baron Baptiste called Power Vinyasa Yoga. You can read all about it if you so desire.
The room is heated to 90 degrees and for 60 minutes, the instructor talks you through a series of poses and breathing, more poses and more breathing, high push-ups, low push-ups (which all have fancy names), up and downward facing dog, etc. Sometimes the instructor will come over to adjust my positioning, which usually involves my hips needing to be pulled up, and I'm starting to feel like I have heavy hips. They just kind of sink! So I'm trying to work on that. I finally got up into a bridge yesterday with the help of the teacher (LB, I haven't done one of these since 2nd grade gymnastics). While doing this, I felt my body open up---like I could breathe more freely. Pretty amazing.
I am loving these classes; they are intense but relaxing at the same time and it really gives me time completely for myself. What I love most is that yoga provides a living/breathing example of the fact that the only obstacle in my life is myself. If I feel uncertain or wobbly or in pain during a pose, it is because of me and no one else (if I feel anxious or unsure in life situations, it is because of me and my perspective). Sure, there are external factors that affect me, but it is my approach that can change these feelings. (I think I'm getting too philosophical)
There are moments when I can completely focus on balance and control of the movements with breath, and there are other times where my brain and my body aren't in sync, causing a lot of wobbling and shaking, and then thinking "When the hell are we going to get out of this pose?" :) It's like switching from left-brain to right-brain mode. Believe it or not, you sweat profusely during this practice...in fact, I've never sweat this much in my life during a work out. Can anyone remember the last time their shins sweat? :)
The room is heated to 90 degrees and for 60 minutes, the instructor talks you through a series of poses and breathing, more poses and more breathing, high push-ups, low push-ups (which all have fancy names), up and downward facing dog, etc. Sometimes the instructor will come over to adjust my positioning, which usually involves my hips needing to be pulled up, and I'm starting to feel like I have heavy hips. They just kind of sink! So I'm trying to work on that. I finally got up into a bridge yesterday with the help of the teacher (LB, I haven't done one of these since 2nd grade gymnastics). While doing this, I felt my body open up---like I could breathe more freely. Pretty amazing.
I am loving these classes; they are intense but relaxing at the same time and it really gives me time completely for myself. What I love most is that yoga provides a living/breathing example of the fact that the only obstacle in my life is myself. If I feel uncertain or wobbly or in pain during a pose, it is because of me and no one else (if I feel anxious or unsure in life situations, it is because of me and my perspective). Sure, there are external factors that affect me, but it is my approach that can change these feelings. (I think I'm getting too philosophical)
There are moments when I can completely focus on balance and control of the movements with breath, and there are other times where my brain and my body aren't in sync, causing a lot of wobbling and shaking, and then thinking "When the hell are we going to get out of this pose?" :) It's like switching from left-brain to right-brain mode. Believe it or not, you sweat profusely during this practice...in fact, I've never sweat this much in my life during a work out. Can anyone remember the last time their shins sweat? :)
7.11.2008
Backstory: The Clincher
In previous posts, I had mentioned the beginnings of the after-school arts program (we have yet to come up with an official name). There were many people involved in this program, but my co-worker, Carissa, and I spearheaded it. When we met with our school donors to propose the program, we received a rather skeptical response: the word "ambitious" was used a lot which was understandable from their end (they were about to give quite a bit of money for a 30-day program) but somewhat frustrating from ours. Carissa and I knew we would pull it off...somehow. Anyways, they approved our proposal and so it went...we had ballet, African drumming, drama, and painting/drawing available to any and all 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders who were interested. Typing it out does make it seem a bit ambitious. I ended up with about 12 students in painting and drawing.
It was after the beginning of this program that I had accepted the position at the private school; but this after-school thing started to grow on me. Sure, there were still behavior issues and all that garbage, but for the most part, my students were focused, serious, concentrated, and consequently produced these amazing pieces of art. I started thinking, "If I could only make my regular, daily art classes like this, I'd be so much happier teaching." I started feeling really attached to this program because I saw the potential of these students coming to fruition, not just in my section, but in ballet, drama, etc. We were tapping into something.
At the end of the 30 days, we had our big showcase: Carissa's students performed their play, "Another Cinderella", the ballet students did their routine as did the African drummers, and my kids had an art show. We hung their work, which I announced was for sale, in our auditorium (which, by the way, for an elementary school is highly equipped...the stage is phenomenal with lighting, lush curtains, storage, sound board. It's pretty sweet.) I can't really explain how phenomenal every student did in their respective fields other than by explaining people's reactions.
1. We had more parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, whoever show up to this event than any other event SP has ever had. Seeing parents in the audience, intently watching their children, was so heart-warming.
2. This was the very first school assembly during which EVERY SINGLE STUDENT was respectful...I mean completely focused and delighted by what they were experiencing. There was no talking, ridiculing, pushing, shoving, or any other nonsense.
3. The chairperson of the foundation got up at the end of the showcase to say a few words and actually shed some tears. I was watching him during the play, ballet, etc., and he was literally on the edge of his seat the entire time. I can't recall everything he said, but he explained to our audience that this is the perfect example of why he chooses to donate his money to inner-city schools/organizations rather than hospitals or universities. He said he wished all those people who doubted his faith in our school could've been there to witness such dedication and talent.
4. Any teacher Carissa and I saw after that showcase said things like, "That was phenomenal" or "In the 20 years I've been at this school, I've never seen anything like this" or "How can I help next year?" or "The kids LOVED it!".
5. Any student Carissa and I saw after that showcase asked us what we'd be doing for next year's program? How can they be involved? When does it start?
6. Each of my painting/drawing students sold one or more pieces of art work and were able to keep the money they earned for themselves. This baffled them, and I'll let you use your imagination as to how excited they were.
I'll stop at 6 because this post is getting too long and could very well go on forever. This event made me truly question my decision to leave SP. All this potential, support, the beginnings of something those kids so desperately need, parent involvement (finally!!), the opportunity to help build such a program and incorporate it into everyday classes.
It felt like a completely different school during that half hour showcase...and I mean COMPLETELY different, like we weren't some poor school in the ghetto of Jacksonville with shootings in the neighborhoods (which did happen during the show, apparently). "Transcend" would be a good word. So, this all played a part in my decision to stay at SP, knowing that everyday will not be fun or easy or stress-free, but an event like that showcase made it all worth it. I feel like Carissa and I laid a foundation for some changes, and I want to see where it goes from here.
It was after the beginning of this program that I had accepted the position at the private school; but this after-school thing started to grow on me. Sure, there were still behavior issues and all that garbage, but for the most part, my students were focused, serious, concentrated, and consequently produced these amazing pieces of art. I started thinking, "If I could only make my regular, daily art classes like this, I'd be so much happier teaching." I started feeling really attached to this program because I saw the potential of these students coming to fruition, not just in my section, but in ballet, drama, etc. We were tapping into something.
At the end of the 30 days, we had our big showcase: Carissa's students performed their play, "Another Cinderella", the ballet students did their routine as did the African drummers, and my kids had an art show. We hung their work, which I announced was for sale, in our auditorium (which, by the way, for an elementary school is highly equipped...the stage is phenomenal with lighting, lush curtains, storage, sound board. It's pretty sweet.) I can't really explain how phenomenal every student did in their respective fields other than by explaining people's reactions.
1. We had more parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, whoever show up to this event than any other event SP has ever had. Seeing parents in the audience, intently watching their children, was so heart-warming.
2. This was the very first school assembly during which EVERY SINGLE STUDENT was respectful...I mean completely focused and delighted by what they were experiencing. There was no talking, ridiculing, pushing, shoving, or any other nonsense.
3. The chairperson of the foundation got up at the end of the showcase to say a few words and actually shed some tears. I was watching him during the play, ballet, etc., and he was literally on the edge of his seat the entire time. I can't recall everything he said, but he explained to our audience that this is the perfect example of why he chooses to donate his money to inner-city schools/organizations rather than hospitals or universities. He said he wished all those people who doubted his faith in our school could've been there to witness such dedication and talent.
4. Any teacher Carissa and I saw after that showcase said things like, "That was phenomenal" or "In the 20 years I've been at this school, I've never seen anything like this" or "How can I help next year?" or "The kids LOVED it!".
5. Any student Carissa and I saw after that showcase asked us what we'd be doing for next year's program? How can they be involved? When does it start?
6. Each of my painting/drawing students sold one or more pieces of art work and were able to keep the money they earned for themselves. This baffled them, and I'll let you use your imagination as to how excited they were.
I'll stop at 6 because this post is getting too long and could very well go on forever. This event made me truly question my decision to leave SP. All this potential, support, the beginnings of something those kids so desperately need, parent involvement (finally!!), the opportunity to help build such a program and incorporate it into everyday classes.
It felt like a completely different school during that half hour showcase...and I mean COMPLETELY different, like we weren't some poor school in the ghetto of Jacksonville with shootings in the neighborhoods (which did happen during the show, apparently). "Transcend" would be a good word. So, this all played a part in my decision to stay at SP, knowing that everyday will not be fun or easy or stress-free, but an event like that showcase made it all worth it. I feel like Carissa and I laid a foundation for some changes, and I want to see where it goes from here.
7.10.2008
"Saddle up, partner"
Since school let out, I haven't been keeping myself to any particular schedule (other than sleeping in). Back in May, I was pondering my plans for the summer which included ambitious things like, "I'll get a part time job waiting tables or something so that I can a) keep myself busy/productive and b) make some extra money." I am unashamed to say that I did no such thing and have been content with awaking when I feel like it, sitting on the beach, painting, and reading. Sometimes I feel juvenile: I am an adult who still gets a 2 month summer vacation. But then I remember how insane teaching can be, and I get over it. Speaking of teaching, in the end, I decided to stay at my current school for reasons to be explained in another post.
On Tuesday, I returned from visiting my sister, Laura, in Austin, TX. It's true, I thought Austin would be flat and desert-ish with some tumbleweeds blowing across the parched land. I can't say I would have minded finding some cow skull on the side of the road and bringing it home to set up a still-life (can you get through airport security with a cow skull?). It turns out Austin is none of these things as it is full of rolling hills, greenery, lakes, and a thriving downtown area...not to mention limestone which is frickin' EVERYWHERE. One of the things I loved most about the city is its dedication to local businesses, especially when it comes to restaurants. It was refreshing to not see Applebees, Chilis, Olive Garden, Carabbas, Moe's, Panera, etc. Instead, it's very authentic and yummy. And I've never seen so many young couples + babies in one place. I'm certain I will go back many times. It was a fabulous visit thanks to Laura.
My journey home involved a connecting flight from Raleigh to Jax, and after being stuck in the Raleigh airport for 6hrs. and 30 minutes, I can honestly say that it is the most boring airport I have ever been to...or rather, stuck in. There's nothing except TVs that blare CNN's news which is completely sensationalized and ridiculous.
Example: They were talking about the recent salmonella outbreak with tomatoes and peppers, raving that the FDA has "NO idea where the problem is coming from". The headline on the screen said, in big bold letters, "FDA FAILS YOU!!!" This made me laugh. Oh, Vee, where are you when we need you?
What was supposed to be a 2hr. layover kept increasing to a 3, 4, 5, and 6+ hr. layover for God only knows what reason. Thankfully, I did make it back to Jax that night around midnight.
I'm back on the blog train, so more to come. Kitkat, thanks for the virtual kick.
On Tuesday, I returned from visiting my sister, Laura, in Austin, TX. It's true, I thought Austin would be flat and desert-ish with some tumbleweeds blowing across the parched land. I can't say I would have minded finding some cow skull on the side of the road and bringing it home to set up a still-life (can you get through airport security with a cow skull?). It turns out Austin is none of these things as it is full of rolling hills, greenery, lakes, and a thriving downtown area...not to mention limestone which is frickin' EVERYWHERE. One of the things I loved most about the city is its dedication to local businesses, especially when it comes to restaurants. It was refreshing to not see Applebees, Chilis, Olive Garden, Carabbas, Moe's, Panera, etc. Instead, it's very authentic and yummy. And I've never seen so many young couples + babies in one place. I'm certain I will go back many times. It was a fabulous visit thanks to Laura.
My journey home involved a connecting flight from Raleigh to Jax, and after being stuck in the Raleigh airport for 6hrs. and 30 minutes, I can honestly say that it is the most boring airport I have ever been to...or rather, stuck in. There's nothing except TVs that blare CNN's news which is completely sensationalized and ridiculous.
Example: They were talking about the recent salmonella outbreak with tomatoes and peppers, raving that the FDA has "NO idea where the problem is coming from". The headline on the screen said, in big bold letters, "FDA FAILS YOU!!!" This made me laugh. Oh, Vee, where are you when we need you?
What was supposed to be a 2hr. layover kept increasing to a 3, 4, 5, and 6+ hr. layover for God only knows what reason. Thankfully, I did make it back to Jax that night around midnight.
I'm back on the blog train, so more to come. Kitkat, thanks for the virtual kick.
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