I'll Take it from Here

It's been a very challenging 8 months. A lot of growing has occurred. As far as work goes, this group of kids has been extraordinary in that they seem unreceptive to every method I attempt. I've got six weekly behavior plans and am filling out four referrals for either counseling or resource classes. Behavior is a constant issue-emotional breakdowns, repressed anger, disrespect of authority. I've never been exposed to such misguided children. Parents need to step up to the plate and start disciplining and loving their children, because if this pattern follows, I'm scared for the next generation.
In addition to the mental challenge of this school year, I've been physically put to the test as well. I can't recall a time when I've been so frequently sick. I've had three flues in the last four months. As soon as I get some downtime for a vacation-WAM!-fever.
Aside from school, I've gone through a lot relationally. At the start of the year, I ended something that went on three years too long. It caused constant questioning, constant doubt, and frequent dissapointment. I left the country for a week to get some resolution and clarity and came back with exactly what I needed to get my head in order again. I'm 27 years old and-yes, mom, I'm almost thirty-I'm getting too old to be chasing after fruitless possibilities. I've been given this internal gauge that pops up "red flag" when I'm going after something that isn't worth it. I'm finding that experience has lead me to the point where I know to acknowledge those flags in life.
At this current moment, I'm enjoying a flag-less something. There is balance and equal affection and a sense of partnership. I don't know where it will lead, but I know that I'm learning about myself and growing from learning about someone else as well.
Well, that's where I'm at. How about you?

Ending of a Lazy Summer- Start of a Busy Fall

I just came back from a camping trip in the High Sierras, with Hayley and her family. I was so lucky to have spent time with such warm and embracing people--I felt like part of the Nesbit family. What a blast! We had perfect weather all week, sunny and hot! Days were spent at the lake or by the river. Granite rocks everywhere! Nightime was spent singing around the campfire and star gazing.
This Thursday marks the start of my work year. I am absolutely unprepared and have done nothing at all! Oh well, I'll wing it!

Summertime in the VTA

Summer has been flying by. I have to admit, I'm a little bored of myself--although, I know I'll be wishing for that boredom in about a month! School starts back up in mid August--I wouldn't say that I'm looking forward to it, but it makes time go by quickly. This year I will have an entirely new crop of kids. I was lucky enough to hold my fourth graders from my first year to fifth grade, last year. As they are now 6th graders, I will have to get used to new quirks and various learning styles and obstacles. I've been told that this new crop is VERY hard to keep focussed on one thing for too long.
No big trips for me this summer; I've been to lazy to plan. I have all of these wild ideas, but they go no further than a google search. I'm enjoying waking up early to surf C street with my dad and climbing in the gym--I long for outdoor climbs, if only I could find a partner!


I'm still living in Pierpont, in the same place; it's been quite a ride, having gone through 3 roomates in the past year. Does that say something about me? Don't answer that!

My cats, Turbo and Ewok, are almost a year old and have found a way to get into everything! Ewok loves to bat at the cursor on my laptop, and sprawl himself over the keyboard, while Turbo enjoys attacking feet and giving out unexpected love bites. But I am very thankful to have them--they are my company and can't run from me, when I am affectionate with them!
Well, that's an update!