Winter Wonderland

Yes folks, I am currently home in Michigan. Thankfully there was a day break in the winter storm for my travels. The roads were fairly clear- just a bit of ice between Fort Wayne and the IN/MI border. Fort Wayne had received at least a half inch of ice and approximately 85% of the city was still without power as I drove through. Thank you Lord that it didn't hit me nearly as bad. Marion was essentially clear of all signs of winter when I left this morning. By the time I reached Ft. Wayne, all the trees on the west side of the interstate were completely cased in ice. Those on the eastern side had none. And then by the time I arrived at the border all visible signs of winter appeared. There was snow. Much snow. And as I continued driving the amount only increased. When I got off the highway the snow was at least a foot deep. The snow on our deck is up past the patio chairs. The snow plowed off the driveway is nearly half as tall as the pine trees (which is much taller than myself). It was incredible to experience the winter transformation in just a few hours. :)

I spent the afternoon doing multiple loads of laundry and packing for our grand excursion to the east coast. Rachel, my apologies for neglecting to mention you in my last post. For those of you curious, I spent part of yesterday morning (during my ice day) pestering my [former] roommate while she was stuck working at the office. (See, it pays to be in education...) We've set plans for the 26th. Since I'll be in her home area of PA we'll be going out to Panera to cram about 5 months of conversation and absurdity into a few short hours. It's a good thing we're awesome enough to be able to pull off such a feat. ;)

On a sad note, Abendago died this morning. I woke up and he was stuck to the intake tube for the aquarium filter. He was near his end and no longer had the strength to swim against its pull. Although I enjoyed his presence, he was quite the bully and I suspect the cause of the demise of my two latest guppies. So while I mourn his loss, I also rejoice at the prospect of adding a new little guy and having him survive.

Tomorrow brings the first leg of travel in our journey. We leave DTW in the early afternoon, layover in Baltimore, and end up in Raleigh by early evening. As I'm not promised internet access, you may have to wait for updates until my return. I'm sure you'll survive. It's Christmas. You have much better things to do than be checking up on me. :)

Merry Christmas!

Ice Day

Today was my first school cancellation as a teacher. Ironically, I was disappointed. As the last day before Christmas break, the half day of exams and half day of grading was rather welcoming. Regardless, school was closed and students will have to make up those last two exams when we return in January. Sorry guys.

I had every great intention of being super productive today but most items on my 'to do' list fell by the wayside. However, I did have one great accomplishment today. I finished the 'winterizing' of my apartment. I had already applied winter stripping to my porch door but today I pulled out my window insulation kit and took care of all my windows- including the porch doors. The shrink wrapped plastic should help keep the insane wind gusts out and my cozy warm air in. It took quite a bit of time and it was quite the accomplishment. :)

Besides the window insulation, I slept in, watched the news, made waffles for breakfast, watched a little bit of "White Christmas", cleaned out my fridge, washed dishes, washed the floors, packed for vacation, and had a late lunch/early dinner with SJ when she got off work.

Thankfully IN roads are all ready for travel. The snow has finally stopped in MI after dumping nearly 12 inches in this past storm. Hopefully all will be plowed so I can make it the entire way home- because as of tomorrow morning, I'll be on my way. :)

Set

While searching for nearby stores that carry the "Set" card game, the following message appeared.

"Sadly there are currently no stores in this area code We understand how this must sadden you, and we share in your pain... Yet do not despair. All is not lost. Perhaps a store near you will soon carry our product line, and people everywhere will be able to share in the enjoyment of SET. Maybe they are just waiting for the right time to start carrying SET, or maybe they are waiting for you to politely ask them... until then you can always check out our catalog... "

I like their humor. A lot. Maybe because it's associated with a nerdy math game. :D

Nutcracker

What a weekend! Saturday Jess came over for brunch and the two of us drove up to Ft. Wayne to meet up with Susan and Mama Jevert. While walking into the mall to meet them I hear "Becky!". Amy was running up behind me! Fancy running into her at a mall I've never been to an hour away in Ft. Wayne! The three of us, along with Susan, walked around for a while and caught up amongst the crowds. I realized I quite enjoy living in a much less crowded area. I felt slightly claustrophobic. :P

Afterwards Jess, Susan and I met up with Mama Jevert at Flat Top for a late lunch/early dinner. We spent about two relaxing hours over food and wonderful conversation.

Then we left Mama Jevert in Fort Wayne and drove back to my apartment in Marion. We made a quick change into our dresses for the evening and drove to Marion High School to see the Nutcracker. The Marion Philharmonic Orchestra and Boulder Ballet put on an incredible performance. I hadn't seen the Nutcracker since my early childhood and it was every bit as wonderful as I remembered.

Today I met up with SJ for lunch and grocery shopping. I spent the majority of the afternoon cleaning the kitchen and hanging a few pictures. The DMS photo and quotes are now up in my room and the TAYLOR mat is above the dresser in the office. Today I also purchased a full length mirror (sorry I didn't have it last night, Suz and Jess) and tomorrow I'll pick up the appropriate hardware at Lowe's to hang it in the hallway.

Two more days of intense exam review for my students, three days of exams, entering grades, packing and them I'm home. And then NC. Then PA. Then MI again. Get excited! :)

MG Dead Week

'Tis much better to give than receive... especially in the realm of final exams.

Photographic Update

Before we left for T-day break, my students did story problems Monday and Tuesday to review some of the standards we've covered so far this year. After completing all the problems each student was assigned one to write and solve on a feather for a turkey for their class. Some students had to write down their "Create your own" problem. The turkeys were then posted up on the bulletin board in my hallway. I was really proud!



This week I received my first 'teacher gift'- a cookie cutter filled with fudge! I love my students! :)



Christmas decorations are up! I have Amy to thank for arranging my Nativity figurines... and then placing them in the forest.



The small Christmas tree, cottage figurine, candle warmer, and metal sleigh adorn the kitchen table (along with that teacher gift and sugar cookies from this weekend). In case I've neglected to point this out earlier, I suppose it's rather obvious that I don't use my table for eating too often. And let's face it, there's pleanty of room on that tablecloth for me to join the decorations. ;)


A cutsie little candle holder and companion mugs on my kitchen counter.

My big Christmas tree! Thanks to mom and Tim for finding this one for me. I set this up last Sunday right after getting back from MI. I was determined enough to set it up, light it, and put up the bows and matching red and clear bulbs at once. Since then I haven't put up many of my personal ornaments, but we're getting there. I had about a half dozen of my favorite ornaments that I wanted to pull out and at least those ones are up.

Yesterday Erin, Deal, Amy and I made sugar cookies. We originally planned on doubling the recipe. Shortly into the process we realized that we weren't using the recipe we wanted to and thus had to change recipes. In doing so we had to quadruple our recipe. Let's just say we ended up with a few too many cookies- and we even had to freeze some of the dough!

Here's a picture of a few of my favorite cookies that I decorated. :)



Me with some of my cookies.

Amy and Deal hard at work icing those babies. From this shot you can get an idea of how many cookies we had. Thankfully there was just enough icing to finish the job.

New Home (for the fishies)

Several points of interest...

• The Christmas tree in my classroom is up and lit, thanks to my TA, 6th period class and high school principal. I haven't had a chance to put the apple ornaments on in quite yet however. ;)
• I received my very first gift from a student this week. It was a metal gingerbread woman cookie cutter filled with incredible homemade fudge. I finally broke down this evening and I'm currently eating part of it with some coffee.
• I set up my new aquarium yesterday and, after 24 hours of letting the filters work through the water several times, my four little guppies are now in their new home. :) With more room to move around and heated water, they're extraordinarily active and incredibly brilliant. It looks wonderful sitting on cinder blocks next to my TV- and I rather enjoy their entertaining behaviors. What's incredible is that, even with all the room to move around, they still stick together- they are very social and community-oriented fish.
• I found the perfect aquarium decoration for my fishies at Wal-Mart (where else?). It looks like a signpost that says "No Pescar!!" which, in Spanish, means "No Fishing". Bwahaha!
• We have about a week and a half until semester exams begin in the high school. It's hard to believe that so much time has passed so quickly.
• Watching TV with my Christmas tree lit and burning an apple cinnamon candle feels very seasonal- as does waking up to Christmas music in the morning.
• Tomorrow= Silent Night with my DMS gals.
• Happy almost weekend. :)

Thanksgiving in the Mitten

Kirstin and I traveled home for Thanksgiving and had a wonderful visit. Unfortunately it was shorted by the approaching winter storm today that swept across the Midwest. We left by 8:30 this morning and were able to travel almost 2 hours before we hit any weather. But when we hit the snow, we hit it hard. The remainder of our drive we spotted 10 cars that had driven off the road and that had done a complete 180 on the ramp to I-94. Kirstin ended up driving through the worst of it. :P

During our time home we had a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, set up our Christmas tree and other decorations, and did some shopping. Last night I met up with 5 of my friends from high school for dinner. As of right now, two of us are living in MI, two in NJ, and two in IN. Three are going to grad school, two teaching, and one completing an internship with a church ministry. It was incredible to catch up with those ladies!

Now I have three weeks of class before Christmas break. Next weekend Erin and Deal are meeting Amy and I in Upland for TU's Silent Night basketball game and a DMS weekend- complete with an ornament exchange and sugar cookies. :)

Speaking of ornaments, I had time this afternoon to set up my Christmas tree in my apartment. It now sits in the corner between my porch and couch. It's already lit and decorated with bows and Christmas bulbs. There are still other ornaments to be hung, but it's not a shabby start at all. I'm rather proud of my efforts. Tomorrow I have to light and decorate the tree in my classroom- I was fortunate enough to find apple ornaments for that one. Of course, students will add their own decorations and paper chains that we create in class together.

And now, since it is Sunday evening, I suppose I should set things in order for tomorrow and the week ahead... :)

View from the Library

Presently I am sitting in a study room in Taylor's library grading tests and preparing this week's curriculum and lessons. I've positioned myself so that I can look up from my work and catch a glimpse of the world outside through the tall skinny window sitting opposite my table. I have a near perfect view of Wengatz Hall, centered appropriately on the grand entrance facing the heart of campus. To the right there is a small hint of another building. The brick geometrical half-wall separates portions of a garden, iron park benches, and a concrete sidewalk. The new prayer chapel sits just beyond that, the white pillars of which I can barely see. I haven't viewed the prayer chapel from this vantage point before and it catches me off guard occasionally. Having spent a fairly significant time in this particular study room over my time as an undergrad I am not accustomed to a new object on this landscape.

The trees are bare. Fall in Upland came and went fairly quickly. I think I missed the majority of it. The bark is dark from the earlier rains of the day; the branches waver ever so slightly in the breeze. The solid mass of gray clouds travels steadily over the entire scene leaving no evidence of its visit. Despite the melancholy of the sky, the grass brings life to my view. Its color is barely darker than the 'spring green' crayon one could find in Crayola's box of 64, and definitely not nearly as yellow.

I'm eagerly anticipating the snows of winter and the new scenery that will bring. I have my favorite seasons, but how I love the Midwest and the change that it brings each year. :)

2nd Midterm Time

Surprisingly, I don't think one post per week suffices as an update on life. You may think I have no life, but you are sorely mistaken. ;)

Last week finished off without a hitch and Saturday I made my first official day trip to Muncie since my move down here. I was able to secure several new picture frames for my classroom so I could hang up my diploma, teaching license, and coaching license. I also now have a frame to hang up my DMS quotes and picture at home. :)

A few points:

• I really enjoy the brisk and fresh air when I step outside.
• I love the smell of fresh laundry.
• Grilled cheese, chicken noodle soup, and an apple with caramel made for a perfect dinner tonight.
• Although I'm generally not a fan of ridiculously cold weather, I can't wait for the first good snow of the year. (If it's going to be below 30 we might as well have snow.)
• I forgot how much I enjoy Derby Pie
• I like catching up with old friends

Bingo

For the most part, today was a standard day in the life of Miss H. The un-standard part came around 9:30 when I was leaving work. 14 straight hours makes for a long day. :P The HS cheerleaders hosted a Bingo night- it was my first Bingo and it was quite the experience. I discovered I have a strange appreciation for the circle sponge inkers that are used to mark the cards. Haha! The other ladies at my table were wonderful in helping me get started and keeping me on track as to which type of Bingo we were playing for each game. I was not so fortunate as to win a Bingo, but it was fun nonetheless.

Election Day

I didn't feel as sluggish in the pool today. Nor was I as dizzy and shaky when I finished. That was encouraging. :) I also found out I could use the fins in their equipment bins- it made for a great workout for the lower half.

I talked with my (former) roommate on the phone this evening- just like we were in the same room together (I miss old times)- 2+ hour conversation. Wonderful!

Fish is still alive. Three more days until he earns a name. I placed the fake green plant back in the bowl today. We'll see how that goes.

I'm excited for the 2-year campaign trail to be over. I believe in the importance of informed voting, but after 2 years... I'm just about burned out.

I like that it's still 70 degrees outside during the day.

When standing in a group with other junior high students I was mistaken for a student by a student. "Oh, I thought you were one of the children!" Boy, did we get a good laugh!

My plant isn't getting sufficient light during the day and is slowly dying. I haven't given up on trying to resurrect him though.

Tomorrow I'm playing bingo for Longaberger baskets and Vera Bradley goods for a high school cheerleading fundraiser. And yes, that is the social highlight of my week. :)

Hello, November

Oye! How has so much time passed? My word, my word...

Well, to play quick catch-up, I think I'll stick to the standard list-type update.

1) Fall break at home was wonderful. Although I've been back to MI this fall, it was my first time home since I moved out in August. Despite my clear knowledge that my furniture is now in my apartment it was still strange not to see it scattered strategically throughout the house.

2) While home, mom, Tim and I had the opportunity to see the Marine band (yes, "The President's Own") perform at a local college. It was spectacular!

3) I went to visit a few of my old high school teachers, chat with my Spanish teachers, and observe my old AP Statistics teacher. They were disappointed that I wasn't teaching back at my alma mater. :)

4) Due to several circumstances, I am now on guppy #5. If he makes it to Friday he gets a name. Apparently my apartment water, even when treated, is still not good for the little guys. And the last fish got caught in the cute little plastic plant I had placed in there. So now the green little plant is sitting on the table next to the bowl- I'm rather fond of this guppy and I'm in no hurry to encourage him to trap himself and cause an untimely death.

5) This past weekend Amy and I went down to Indy to spend Saturday with Deal and Erin and engage in our traditional fun math teacher types of activities. Chick-fil-a for lunch, our traditional stop at Sonic for limeades, and visits to Deal's and Erin's schools for pictures and stories. We also went to a local orchard to pick up apples and cider. We returned to Deal's apartment to back an apple pie and cook dinner. Time slipped by quickly and before we knew it, midnight was approaching- way past all our bedtimes. :P

6) This week is off to a good start, and with a half day for professional development on Friday it's going to pass rather quickly.

7) This morning I realized one of my favorite reasons for daylight savings. I drove to school as the sun was rising. Yes! I saw the sun! The sunrise over the cornfields was absolutely incredible- I felt like we had a fake 2 hour delay. Of course this also plays to my benefit in the evening. While I'm not thrilled that it gets dark so quickly, it gives me the illusion that I'm staying up later than it actually is, so I'm apt to get to bed sooner. If you don't understand my reasoning, just take my word for it.

8) Lastly, I had a chance to do some laps at IWU this evening. It's been 5+ years since I've done any serious swimming, and it's quite evident. But there are wonderful memories in the pool and the permeating smell of chlorine and it was rather nostalgic to visit that environment again. I think I shall be visiting often in the coming months, actually.

And with that, I'm off. :) Later gators!

Fall break begins tomorrow...

1) I had parent-teacher conferences tonight. It made for a long day (half day of school and conferences 12:30-8) but I loved the chance to see some parents again and meet others for the first time!

2) I used my geeky calculator skills to download two simulation programs from the Texas Instruments website to use as a classroom activity tomorrow. It made me incredibly happy that I still knew how to do so.

3) My fish is still alive! He's not too eager to eat, but I think he'll at least make it another day. Hopefully he'll survive the drive to MI tomorrow.

4) By this time tomorrow I'll be sitting at home in MI with my parents and brother... who will still have to go to school Thursday and Friday (sorry buddy).

5) Fudge-like brownies with chocolate chips are delicious- especially when served warm with cold milk. Mmmm.

6) I love my school and co-workers- they are simply amazing. Go MG! :)

Swimming and Guppies

Oh, where to begin?!

Not too much has happened over the past week or so... but there are several noteworthy items to relay. Last week I made several trips to Taylor for lectures and to help a former teammate with Calc I homework. At the end of last week I stopped by Marsh to pick up some groceries and ended up carting home a tropical-ish looking plant nearly my height. Some of the leaves need a little TLC, but it looks great on my wall between the kitchen and living room and softens things up quite a bit.

This past weekend was the first completely free weekend I've had since I moved in. I refrained from doing any work on Saturday and truly loved simply relaxing and doing some good cleaning. The smell of cleaner everywhere reminded me of how KK and mom used to clean up for me before I came home from college for vacations.

Saturday night I made a trip to Wal-Mart and came home with a guppy! Unfortunately, Mike passed away before I came home from school today- so I went back out to Wal-Mart and just brought home guppy II. (He doesn't get a name until he lasts a few days.)

This evening I also had the chance to swim at IWU. It's been a few years since I did laps, and I could tell. Regardless, it felt absolutely wonderful. I forgot how I loved being enveloped in the water, how I loved hearing the water rush past my head, and how I have this strange appreciation for the smell of chlorine... :P

Parent-teacher conferences tomorrow, half day Wednesday, and then I'm home in MI for fall break. :)

Varsity Club

My algebra class worked on a worksheet instead of the typical lesson from the book today. They were a little tired of bookwork, so to thank me one student piped up and said "that was Christ-like". Yes, that would be the same student who wanted to name my overhead Jesus. :P

I have a classroom pet for 7th period pre-calc. It's a fox named Quincy/Clementine. (We took a class vote and they couldn't decide... go figure.)

I am now a member of the Varsity Club at IWU so I can use the athletic facilities to work out. I am so excited about this- especially since cross country season has just ended! :)

Like a good little first-year teacher I got my flu shot today. Here's to keeping the sicknesses to a minimum... right?

Light of the World

My students wanted to name my overhead projector a few weeks ago. The previous one I had was affectionately called "beast" because it was so loud that I had a hard time hearing some students over it. The new one did not have that complication. One individual suggested that I name the new overhead "Jesus" because it brings light to the world. I about died laughing. Today that same individual claimed that the overhead could no longer be named Jesus due to the complicated math it displayed during class or, as he put it, "Jesus wouldn't do that to us". Of course I responded with the generic "sometimes you have to go through a rough patch in life to get to a better spot" which was met with a "thanks, Oprah" from one of my girls. Bwahaha. They're wonderful.

My boys placed 4th out of 9 teams at the Madison County meet tonight. Our athletic director believes that to be the best finish we've had in years. Woo hoo! Go team!

First 9 weeks

Well, ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to announce that I have survived my first 9 weeks teaching (aka- my first marking period). Now perhaps I should wait on this news until grades are officially entered and submitted, but hey, I feel like I've reached a milestone worth celebrating. And what a better way to celebrate than Taylor University homecoming? ;)

This past week has been insane. Between two back-to-back cross country meets, team pictures, finishing the marking period, administering four periods of tests, grading massive amounts of late work, and participating in spirit week for homecoming... well, it's safe to say I'm just plain pooped. Haha! But really, homecoming week was a wild ride.

Last weekend Deb drove up from St. Louis and Rach flew in from DC. Add in several other former FSMA ladies and it was one she-bang of a weekend. Starbucks, two trips to Wal-Mart, several episodes of Gilmore Girls, the 4th anniversary of Exit 59 Church, a trip to Cheesecake Factory to see Anna and it was as though we had never left... almost. It was dreadfully hard to say good-byes last Sunday evening. I have no clue when I'll see though gals again. But it was wonderful to share their company (especially in IN) once again.

This weekend has afforded me the opportunity to see many other alumni- Junice, Jenna, the Sutters... wonderful! I was unsure as to how I would handle my first homecoming, especially since I'm still living in the general area- but I believe I've had enough time to adjust to that fact that it did not cause as much... disruption... as I expected. Regardless, the day was filled with pretending to watch portions of the football game, visiting the Jumping Bean, watching the girls' soccer game, Ivanhoe's with the Sutters and Mitchels, Laundry House/Eastapalooza, and finally back at Amy's place. Ooh, and I also caught airband Thursday evening before visiting English to help Reno with a little Calc I. :) As mentioned above, I went out to dinner with two newly married couples this evening. It was uncannily normal. It was the first time I've seen either of them since they were married. Unfortunately, I was unable to contribute to the sharing of wedding stories, but other than that it was wonderful. ;) However, it was strange to realize that I'm slowly getting older- old enough for my friends to be married and have 'real lives', or something like that. Weird.

Speaking of 'real lives', I'm finally feeling like I'm starting to settle in a bit. I'm getting to know the other teachers in the building a little better- I went to the hog roast Friday night with a few of them- and I just got a lead on the Grant County Young Professionals group. Perhaps a slight pattern of normalcy is helping as well (slight is the key word there).

There are many other things I've been pondering over this time of silence, but tonight is not the time nor the place to share such things. They shall simply have to wait until later... g'night folks. :)

Haircuts and Home Meets

During a moment in class yesterday when I was very close to being flustered...
one of my students raised her hand.
me: yes, T?
T: [smiling widely] Did you get your hair cut this weekend?
me: yes, T, I did
T: I like it. It looks really nice.

That definitely isn't what I was expecting, but it made me smile a whole lot. :)

Tonight we had our last home cross country meet and it was w-i-n-d-y! Whew! But my kids did great. Afterwards I stopped by the 7th grade football game for a little bit. Unfortunately the cold and wind got the better of me in my shorts and I headed home after a bit two warm up.

I had a good phone call with mom over dinner and now I'm taking a few moments of pure relaxation with a cup of coffee.

Rachel and Deb come in 3 days. I CANNOT wait! :D

Commissioning, detentions, and coffee

I returned home around midnight last night from a marvelous weekend. I took part in the commissioning ceremony for one of my best friends as she entered the US Army as a medical officer. It was definitely a momentous occasion and I am rather proud of her. :)

I spent the past 2.5 days with some of the people nearest and dearest to me. So, needless to say, I wasn't exactly thrilled about returning home to an empty apartment. :P There may have been a few tears shed upon departure, but I was enormously thankful for the company of two other gals on the drive back to Indiana from Michigan.

As I was visiting with a dear old friend and discussing recent developments, he made the comment 'it looks like you're making a life for yourself'. Well, I suppose I am, eh? Life is what you make of it and, quite frankly, I haven't been putting forth much effort, if any, in that area. All energy has gone to teaching, coaching, and taking care of the small mundane details of life. Admittedly, I have done an extraordinarily poor job of 'plugging in'. Along with that thought came the realization that, as much as I think my students need it, character development is also good for those a little older. I have the feeling that this year will provide a multitude of opportunities for my own character development.

I spent some time talking to another teacher in my hallway today, which is no unusual occurrence. We have the same prep period and it has proven to be very beneficial for me to have a great source of knowledge at my fingertips. :) During today's discussion, she gave me a very high compliment. "I am so impressed with you... so impressed." Wow. From someone who has been teaching for 37 years talking to a first year teacher, that meant quite a bit. (Thanks for the encouragement!) By the way, I wrote up my first two detentions today. Is it weird that my first experience with detentions is on the giving side? ;)

In other news, I purchased some small tupperware containers tonight to hold applesauce, trail mix, etc. I think I'm a little too excited at the prospect of using them tomorrow. :P I also love Starbucks' Teacher Appreciation Mondays. Hooray for free coffee!

Internet and Class Pets

My internet is officially up and working! Woo hoo! It's been a long time coming, but it is finally all set up. :)

It's been a long week- two meets and resuming normal classes after ISTEP testing. However, tomorrow I've canceled practice and the day suddenly seems much more manageable. Of course, it is the beginning of the James Dean festival which is, naturally, sufficient reason to suspend all normal activities. But the true reason behind the change in schedule is my long-anticipated road trip to Kalamazoo. One of my dearest friends is currently in her first year of medical school. This weekend she is flying home from Colorado for her commissioning ceremony into the Army. You know, just a minor occasion. :P So myself and another gal or two from the area are driving up to join in the celebrations, and just for a chance to see her again.

On another note, I now have two 'class pets'. They are plastic key chain animals, a cow (Sheldon) and a tiger (Kenneth), that make noises and light up. Two of my junior high boys gave them to me to 'babysit' during the day. They think it's the greatest thing ever. And, I'll be honest, I get a kick out of the moo-ing sound that the cow makes. Oh the adventures of junior high.

On my way home...

... yesterday I passed two rather large pieces of farm equipment on the road home. I'm ashamed to say I can't tell you exactly what they were or what they do.

... today I was stopped in Wal-Mart by two of my runners. The first spotted me in the produce area and ran up to me with a huge smile on her face just to say hi (even though I had just seen her a half hour before). I ran into the second in the check-out line. His mother and I proceeded to have a wonderful chat.

And then, of course, it's always good for your morale when you pass the gymnasium doors during an 8th grade volleyball game and half a dozen of your 7th grade students spot you and suddenly begin waving their hands violently in the air and yelling "Miss H" in attempts to get your attention.

On another note, the ladies in the high school office are wonderful. Every day I walk in there is the now-standard "well aren't you cute" or "doesn't she look adorable?" comments. Today a fellow teacher asked me if I was a miss or Mrs. and then proceeded to think about which gentlemen with whom she could set me up (she started with her brother because she wanted me in the family). It's just a great way to begin the day. :P

Tastes of Fall

There are several reasons I've absolutely come to love the upcoming fall season. For one, as the weather has cooled down and it's felt less and less like summer it is easier for me to go to work and spend my day indoors. I don't feel like I'm missing out on life (specifically summer life) quite as much. Of course, it also helps that my brother is finally in school too. :P

The cool air is refreshing and invigorating. The fields (corn and soybean) are beautiful, especially under the early morning sunrise. And then, of course, there are the foods of fall. Mom, dad, and Tim came down this weekend for parent's weekend at TU and brought down some goodies from our cider mill back home for Kirstin and myself. A half gallon of apple cider, a half dozen cider donuts and several apples currently sit in my fridge. I really need to find out if there is an orchard nearby- it is by far one of the best perks of this season. :)

Other noteworthy points:

• I didn't lose any socks in the laundry today.
• I successfully used a Downy ball today... and an industrial-sized washer
• My K-zoo road trip is this coming weekend and I'm super excited- for multiple reasons ;)
• I just finished grading the first pre-calc test of the year
• My (old) roommate is coming out to visit in 2 weeks- YES!
• Dad and I hung my curtain in the kitchen this weekend
• I have a working paper towel holder now
• The Starbucks in my area has 'teacher appreciation Mondays' for the next week. I'm taking advantage of that free tall pike's peak tomorrow morning on my way to school. :)

Call for Help

Last night my brother called me. First of all, that's a big event. He's not exactly a huge phone person. He had two questions for me. 1) What is the Law of Cosines? 2) What is the Law of Sines?

I answered his questions in great fashion. (Go me.)

And then I said "Isn't it great to have a sister who is a math teacher?" Hehe. Wow, it actually happened. I'm actually a teacher. LOVE it! :D

Upside of ISTEP

Well, ISTEP testing may be a minor (major) headache, but at least it gives me a good excuse to bake for my students. My 8th graders are testing with me, so they are getting some tasty muffins tomorrow morning. Ooohh how I love spoiling people. :)

DMS with Caramel Apples

I wish I could tell you how great it was to see these gals yesterday. I wish I could tell you how hilarious it was making and eating caramel apples. But I can't. It's simply impossible to describe such events. You'll just have to trust me. It was simply amazing. We laughed so hard we were all speechless and in tears. Amy was hyperventilating and Erin was on the couch crying. I did all I could to keep from falling off the swiss ball. I hadn't laughed that hard in... months. DMS reunions were definitely a good idea. ;)

Apartment Pics

As promised (about a month ago), here are a few pictures of my apartment. Unfortunately, some are slightly outdated. My bedroom is more unpacked/organized and there is a new tablecloth and flower arrangement on the kitchen table and a valance to be hung shortly on that window. Other than that, well, nothing much has changed. :)

(l) bookcases in the living room

(r) bedroom

kitchen table given to me by a fellow teacher at M-G :)

left and right sides of my kitchen 'ally', respectively

The Highest Compliment

At open house last night a parent, and fellow teacher, approached me about her son. Apparently he wasn't feeling well the other day but wanted to come to school so he could go to math class. He's really enjoying class and feels like he's understanding math for the first time. Today that same student told me he wants to be a math teacher when he grows up. I don't think there is any higher compliment. It is definitely a highlight of my week.

On another note, my athletes had their first home meet tonight. I was thrilled about the parent turnout we had, and most of my kids ran good times for themselves. However, we didn't fare too well against our opponent. The program is building, and they're improving. That's all I can ask for.

Tonight I realized another perk of living alone. I get to pick out my own ice cream flavor. :) I just picked up Edy's loaded chocolate fudge brownie. If nothing else, it most definitely fits the bill for a chocolate fix.

Jr High Open House

Full day of classes, cross country practice, tennis game for one of my high school boys, junior high open house, volleyball game for my high school girls. Fourteen hours later I made it back home again.

Open house reminded me of several things tonight. 1) I love teaching 2) I love parents 3) I love being organized 4) It's not difficult for me to talk for 8 minutes 5) I remembered what it was like to walk out of school into darkness- hardly seeing the light of day (swim memories, anyone?)

Ice cream, bed, and then I'm doing it all over again. :)

Tomorrow brings meet number 2 for my team. Woo hoo!

"We'll throw you a ball..."

I told my students that it was my goal to make it to at least one of each of their sporting events. Friday I went to a football game. This week's sport of choice was high school volleyball. Today in class my girls were asking me when I'd be able to make it. Today didn't look like a possibility since I had my first cross country meet. However, they told me they'd throw me a ball if I came... and they'd save one for me in case I got there late. I had no idea what they were talking about- until I made it to their game and the line up was called. As each girl's name was announced, she threw a small plastic volleyball (which all the they had all signed) to someone in the crowd. One of my students tossed me her ball and I finally understood. That moment definitely made my day- possibly even my week.

Now, I'm also very proud of my junior high athletes, please don't misunderstand me. They had a great first meet, to be sure. But there's simply something about receiving acknowledgement like that that just lets me know, at least on some very small level, 'hey, you're OK'.

Speaking of the cross country meet, I ran into my old high school students and athletes from last year. They're just as great and hilarious as I remember. "Hey, it's Miss Hegelein. That's ironic." "Hey, Miss Hegelein, did you miss me? ...[meh, well...] What? I haven't seen you in a year and that's how you treat me?!" "Traitor! M-G? Why aren't you back here?" Haha! As my first kids, they have a special place in my heart. Not to be outdone, my current students are definitely growing on me. :)

We survived our first meet with at 28:1 athlete to coach ratio. :D
Gotta love junior high cross country. Go Argylls!

Family Dinner

Sunday I returned to Exit 59 Church again. We sent Mark off and prayed for him as a church- he's leaving for L.A. on Saturday to work with WorldImpact. He spoke to the church about his ministry out there and also interjected some words of wisdom to the freshmen. He advised them to go to church with their friends. He recounted how he and his friends (myself, Rach, Deb, and Jared) would call each other Saturday evening, decide who was driving and keep each other accountable. I was so proud to have been a part of that- a part of his life- a part of JaMBaRDi, our family. But as he was telling the story, there was also a deep sharp pain for the lonliness I felt over what I had lost. Church was so entirely wrapped up in my group of friends that it was rather painful to be back there without them. So, as much as I love Exit 59, I'm not sure that can remain my church home right now.

On a slightly brighter note, some Sunday traditions are still continuing, but in a slightly different and modified manner. Kirstin, Tabs, Amy Laur, and Brittney came over for lunch after church. A simple meal was made all the better by their company. They were also my first official dinner guests- and we even had a real kitchen table at which to eat! KK and Tabs stayed for a bit to do some work and then left for the all-sports meeting. I ended the evening by going to school for a few hours to set up my bulletin boards and take care of some paperwork.

ISTEP meeting tomorrow morning, Oak Hill Invite tomorrow afternoon, midterm grades due Wednesday morning, junior high open house Wednesday evening, and another cross country meet Thursday afternoon. And somewhere in there hopefully I'll see Mark before he moves out to California.

Oh, and of course Taylor has a cross country invite Saturday morning to be followed by a day full of DMS lady wonderfulness when Erin and Deal drive up from Indy to hang out with Amy and I. Cornfield photoshoots, caramel apples, and several dozen teacher stories should fill the day quite splendidly. :)

Long-awaited Rain

For at least two weeks now I have been longing for a good thunderstorm.
I was planning to go to bed early tonight.
My thunderstorm just began about 15 minutes ago.
I'm not going to bed yet.

There is something about thunderstorms that I just purely LOVE! It is something I cannot quite describe, which isn't terribly surprising since I lose my capacity to articulate things well rather easily at times.

I find it comforting. It gives me a sense of relief. I wish it were cooler so I could wrap myself in a long sleeve T-shirt, shorts, and a blanket as I lie on the couch contemplating and enjoying life. It'd be rather wonderful. The rain splattering the porch, each drop a unique splash among the pattern of many. The thunder that rattles your very core and the lightning that reveals the entire night sky for that most brief moment of time only to let it all fall into the mystery of darkness once more. No matter where I am the thunderstorms remain the same. It is a constant in my life.

I love the small things of life. Several years ago I made a list of things that make me happy. I stuck it on my desk during a particularly trying semester to provide a much-needed smile during wee hours of the morning. Below I have reproduced (and modified) that list in part for the purpose of reminding myself of those small pick-me-ups that I tend to come by so easily.

Things that make me smile:
thunderstorms
sweatpants
long sleeve T-shirts
running shorts
soccer socks
one-handed cartwheels
belly-whomping in puddles
fog enclosing a harbor
sunrises/sunsets
flat water on the great lakes
Maddawg runs
prayers before races
singing
baking
pictures
people

But for now, I'll enjoy my thunderstorm and leave the other items for another day... :)

But Not Forgotten

As I was driving to the drive-in in Hartford City this past weekend I was turning through radio stations and happened upon the latter part of an old episode from Adventures in Odyssey. Now, while it may no longer be 'age appropriate', I was raised on Adventures in Odyssey and those characters (oddly enough) still have a special spot in my heart. This particular episode dealt with Whit leaving Whit's End and Connie, Eugene, and Tom having to deal with how to keep things running while Whit was away. Connie, resistant to change, refused to allow Jack Allen, an old friend of Whit's, yet new to town, to run the shop. Throughout the episode Jack gives a nice little pep talk to Scrub, a young boy who is about to lose is first tooth. Scrub is in tears because he fears it will hurt and does not understand the necessity of change. Jack, ever so perfectly, explains to him that change is necessary for growth, and when we experience change we will feel something, sometimes loss. Yet that feeling of loss is required in order for us to continue to grow. This in turn applies to Connie and her feelings regarding the change around Whit's End. And then both of these stories in turn apply to my life.

Change is necessary for growth. I know I want to continue to grow- in my faith, in my personal life, in my friendships, in my career. I know that I have not appreciated all aspects of change that have occurred over the past few months since graduation. Yet they have all been necessary steps in life. I may not like being alone, but it allows me time to better understand myself and grow in self-awareness. For as long as I can remember I've had younger siblings or other girls around to take care of, dote on, and direct my attention towards. Now they are all removed and I am forced to consider myself in all the decisions I make. I think I may be working through my indeciveness... at least a little bit.

While I feel the pain of losing all that I once held dear, I do not regret that I have had to continue down the path of life leaving them behind for now. It's time to move on to some new experiences while reflecting on what I've learned from the past. It's a rather odd place to be considering that I'm not far removed from the geographical location of my home for the past four years. Yet life looks entirely different.

So, like on Adventures in Odyssey, I may resent the change at times. Things of the past- friends, teammates, relationships- are gone.

But not forgotten.

"Drive-in" Movies

Tonight was the annual "drive-in" movie that John's hosted for the past few years. This year the event was held at Blackford High School and the outdoor facilities worked very well for us. Three generators powered two separate screens and the popcorn machine. While I watched "Vantage Point" at one screen, my sister was across the field at the other. Too fun! We were literally in the middle of the cornfields- as in the soccer field on which we were sprawled out was surrounded by corn- it was just a few yards from the lines of the playing field. I have to admit, it was quite the beautiful backdrop for that giant movie screen. :) I ran into my Reno there and we ended up spending the evening together which was a very pleasant surprise. Unfortunately, I left towards the beginning of the second film because I'm an old person and was rather tired. :P So, it's off to be for me.

Hooray for 3-day weekends!

Table for Four

So, I decided that one of the perks of living alone is the ability to eat straight out of the peanut butter jar. I'm sitting in the family room right now drinking chocolate milk and casually dipping my fork in the peanut butter jar to smear it over my banana- TUTF style. :) Of course, another great thing is having dinner leftovers to eat for school lunch the next day. Then again, that's only positive if dinner turned out well. :P

Last night one of the high school teachers followed me home and helped me carry up the newest addition to my apartment. She and her husband gave me their old kitchen table! It's absolutely wonderful- a 3.5 ft diameter round solid oak table with four chairs. It's been well loved, but covered with my blue table cloth no one would ever know. And let's be honest, I don't really care. I have a real kitchen table!

A long weekend lies ahead and, until a few hours ago, I had no plans but settling in a little more and continuing to organize. However, I will have a life tomorrow and go to Cedar Point with a youth group from Hartford City.

I had a chicken taco salad for dinner. It was delicious. (One meal of which I'm glad to have leftovers.) Now I'm watching Numb3rs and feeling rather nerdy. (Love the DMS!) Then it's down for a few hours of sleep before a full day tomorrow. Get excited. :)

Colored Highlights

As I was driving to school this morning (am I supposed to say 'school' or 'work'? or can I use the two terms interchangeably?) I started thinking about what the highlight of my third Wednesday of teaching could possibly be. Now, you need to know that on my drive I hit exactly one stoplight and one blinking red light. I was rather excited today when, for only the second time, I hit the stoplight on green. I thought that would be a highlight in its own rights.

However, that thinking disappeared when, before 4th period, two of my high school girls came up to talk to me and told me that they liked my outfit. In fact, they went so far as to say that they always like what I wear and they think I'm stylish. :) If that doesn't make your day, I don't know what does.

Then after cross country practice one of my sixth graders told me that it was much better than latch-key. Well, at least it's a step up, right? And I was afraid that this particular individual wouldn't enjoy himself.

And, of course, the last few highlights of the day include picking up wings from my new favorite restaurant (The Varsity Grill- family owned and operated- relatives of one of my students/athletes), had my oil changed, got a letter saying my coaching position has been approved by the board and is official, and mom calling to tell me that she found an artificial Christmas tree for my apartment (so maybe it's a few months early- but it was free!)

So here I am, sitting in my living room eating dinner and thinking about my day. And then I began categorizing the highlights of my day. Before I knew it I was thinking about them like items in my planner. Each one became color-coded according to the type of activity. You see, yellow signifies typical events/assignments that are due. Orange marks major events, like tests and exams. Pink marks social events. Blue is for meetings. Green, of course, is always used for running and other sporting events. It's been that way since the beginning of college. And I don't think it'll change any time soon.

Some old habits just never die. :P

The Invisible Baton appeared at May's Graduation Celebration

Our new Meijer has some paint on the outside now. I'm only a little excited for it to open up. :) It'll be a bit yet, but I'm working on my patience.

I left school around 6:30 this evening and, realizing that all my meat back home was in the freezer and I didn't feel like defrosting anything or cooking, I stopped by Papa Murphy's to pick up a pizza for the evening. I tried it out last week and, loving it, was quick to go back. I even had a coupon for a free container of cookie dough. So, while the pizza was cooking, that cookie dough and I had a bit of QT (no, I didn't spoil my supper).

Amy and I have a coffee/lesson planning date set for Thursday. I'm thrilled to have some Amy time to myself. It's like she's spoiling me.

And, to celebrate Vanessa's first day teaching in Maine (congratulations to my favorite middle school science teacher!), I decided to include this lovely picture from our graduation party at Taylor back in May. This would be Vanna and I 'practicing' our 4x100 blind hand-off. My steps weren't quite right. And Vanna forgot the baton. But you get the point. We love running. And we love each other.

I was walking down the hall after school this evening and it hit me. I'm a teacher. A real, live teacher. Somehow, after looking forward to this point in time for many years, I can't quite believe it has actually arrived. But I'm glad it has, accompanied by many challenges just to keep me on my toes. :)

Week 3

Week 3, day 1.
The first round of tests is over for my pre-algebra and algebra classes. Round two is actually later this week. The way the Saxon textbooks are organized there is a test every 4 lessons so we'll have a test nearly every week. Tomorrow I have a new teacher meeting in the morning and a high school math department meeting in the afternoon. Practice is going well and our team roster is still growing daily. Friday I received my marvelous coach's shirt which is really going to be the cause of some jealousy. :) I also talked to the gentleman who is making our cross country shirts so that we can finalize the design.

This weekend the family came down and helped move Kirstin into Taylor. She's as settled as one can be as a freshman after welcome weekend. Her classes start tomorrow and Tim starts within a few weeks as well.

It's hard to believe that life is happening. So much has changed within the past few months and I don't think I've quite caught up. Almost, but not quite.

I'm Alive

Yes, I'm still alive down here in central Indiana. And when the internet arrives at my apartment (hopefully sooner rather than later) that will become more aparent. As for now, be content in knowing that I'm almost completely unpacked, my classroom is becoming more decorated and organized, and I love my school, co-workers, and students.

New adventures are constantly around the corner. Tomorrow marks the beginning of middle school cross country and I'm pumped. I might have even decided on a T-shirt design already. I know- me, the indecisive one, already decided on a T-shirt? Yup. It's true. :)

It was a bit strange going to my church this morning- as a teacher and not a student this time- but it was wonderful to see those people again, to chat with the parents of the kids I had in the nursery last year. In many ways it's just wonderful to be back. I'm even learning to shop at Wal-Mart on my own without Rach (a novel idea, I know).

I think cooking for one is my largest challenge at the moment- I'm so accustomed to feeding 5 people when I make dinner. I'll figure it out sooner or later, right? ;) And besides, leftovers make for a great school lunch the next day.

Nostalgia

The Uhaul trailer is all packed and ready to go. My car is awaiting its final suitcase and pillow before its departure tomorrow. And I really am excited to have a job and be teaching this year. Yet the past several days have been full of nostalgia and intensely missing what I once had, those that once surrounded me. I know living alone will have certain benefits, but for those of you that know me at least moderately well know how much I love people. The apartment will, no doubt, feel very empty at times. And somewhere deep down that really scares me, and it hurts like all get out. The summer did not pan out as I had expected or hoped, and I can't see God's designs for me in this year as it is definitely far from what I had planned for myself. Yet a dear teammate so wonderfully reminded me yesterday to trust. Just trust God. I thought I had that lesson down earlier this summer. Apparently not. I'm a slow learner.

Dear friends, I miss you terribly. And I dreadfully wish for those times when we could simply gather on the couches in Fairlane, play Guillotine, and share laughs. I miss the craziness, the long nights after track meets, and the joy that you brought to my lives.

Although I may be hesitant at the prospects of life right now, I know it will still be okay. Life is still good. I'll get over the change soon enough. And maybe I'll even enjoy it once and a while. ;)

Three Strikes and You're Out

Three related scenarios occurred within the past six days. They are all rather entertaining (on various levels) and recorded below.

Situation #1:
I went into school early last Friday to decorate my bulletin boards before meeting with another teacher. I had just been given keys to my classroom (HUGE deal!) however, my door was already open and the lights were on. I walked in to see a gentleman sitting at my desk setting up the computer (hooray!).
Gentleman: [looks up briefly] I'm not the teacher.
Me: [uncertain pause] I know. I am!
Gentleman: Oh. I thought you were a student...
WHAT?!?!?! It's not even the first day of school and I'm already being mistaken for a high school student?! Well, in his defense, I did come in with my computer backpack and my jeans rolled up mid-calf (it was 80+ degrees outside, give me a break). But still... I think I'll avoid the jeans for a while. Probably at least the next decade or so.

Situation #2:
While applying for a credit card at the bank...
Banker: So are you going off to college?
(Well no, actually I just graduated. I'm a teacher now.)

Situation #3:
Getting 'kid' pictures this morning...
The photographer looks at Timothy, who is now the tallest of the three of us and asks "so are you the oldest?"
No ma'am, that would be me, the college graduate. He's the youngest-a high school junior- the same age as some of my students.

Three strikes. People think I'm either a) a high school student b) a college freshman or c) younger than my high school junior brother. So what now? Am I just not allowed to grow up? I know I don't look old, but really? C'mon now. :P

Taking Care of Business

Originally I was disappointed that I would not be able to move this coming weekend. Right now I'm quite thankful for that fact. Given that I have not actually been home for more than two consecutive nights within the past three weeks (or at least I don't think I have been), it's nice to sit in one geographical location for at least a short period of time. That and I have a few business-like items to tend to before making the official move.

I have a list of to-do items for tomorrow (I think I may be a chronic 'to-do' list maker). It includes everything from reserving a Uhaul trailer, calling my apartment complex about Internet access, finding an insurance agent in IN, closing my MI checking account, checking out a toaster oven, calling my middle school principal about coaching the middle school cross country team, calling the Madison Grant payroll clerk, and digging through the closet basement to find a director's chair for my classroom (and to think that will be the same director's chair I used to play teacher as a child- oh the irony of it all). And that all needs to be done before 9 so I can go running with Kirstin. Ok, so maybe only the phone calls need to happen before then. ;)

It really is a strange balance at present. I'm living out of a suitcase for the next two weeks. My room is nearly stripped of its furniture and, as much as I have boxed and ready to go, I feel as though things won't be done until that back door on the Uhaul trailer is locked and we pull out of the driveway. I'll probably forget something crucial and mom and dad will have to save me by bringing it back down when they visit for KK's Welcome Weekend at TU. Yet somehow I'll survive.

Ok, completely switching tracks now. Flashback to last week while I was in IN. I found an apartment! I'm not entirely positive it'll be ready in time- it still needs new carpet- but it's all that had the possibility of being ready for me in time. Pictures of the model are included below. Pictures of mine will be supplied as they become available. :)

Indiana Vacation?

I'm in Indiana. Still. And, at the rate things are going, it looks like I'll be here until Friday (not that I'm complaining). Here's a brief synopsis of my doings thus far:

Monday-
drove down to TU
ran into Coach Bowers :)
stopped by an apartment complex- was referred to another
met my superintendent
visited a second apartment complex- put down an application fee
spent 6 hrs in Payne's filling out the application and typing up beginning of the year documents (and wasting time)
joined Ryan in helping Kelsey pack up her stuff in Marion to move to Indy
spent the night with Kelsey (and Jessie and friends) in their new apt in Indy

Tuesday-
bagel breakfast with Kels, Ryan, and Jessie
drove back up to TU
saw my classroom
met up with Erin
visited a potential housing unit
walked TU campus with Erin
came to Payne's to e-mail pics of potential housing unit

Shortly I'll drive down to Zionsville to spend the night and tomorrow morning with Anna, my old roommate. Sometime within the next few days I'm meeting with another Madison Grant teacher and hopefully finding a few more apartment complexes to check out.

Life is strangely hurried and relaxed at the moment.

Oh, and by the way, I'm not teaching two different subjects. I have four. Count 'em 1, 2, 3, 4. Precalc. Trig. 7th grade algebra. 8th grade algebra. My panic attack this afternoon was only minor. That may change once I have my textbooks. I'll let you know.

On another note, the head girls' track coaching position for the high school is open for this spring. It has possibilities... :) We'll see how the fall goes first.

Well, maybe I should just find a place to live first. Then we'll go from there.

Miss H lands her first real job :)

Well folks, despite my grand designs to return to the motherland (MI- thanks, Mitch) it appears as though God had different designs for me for this coming year. I had several wonderful interviews up in Michigan at great schools. I love the hand state and I love my great lakes. It seemed like a near perfect fit and I spent countless hours searching for jobs, checking district websites daily, and completing dozens of applications. And then one day, while helping my sister with a track workout, I get a phone call from a school I never initiated contact with. Yes, they contacted me at the job fair in the spring, and yes I chatted with them briefly. But now here I was several months later, fully expecting that job to have passed, and what do I get from them? A phone call. What do I do that night? Fill out an application. And the next morning? Call the school to get the new principal's name and end up setting up an interview for the following week.

And so, after the Brown-Vanderberg wedding, I hopped in the car with mom and KK, drove the 270 some odd miles down to Indiana, interviewed, and drove home. Two days later I receive an informal offer, pending approval of the superintendent. That was a Thursday. Monday I received an official offer. Five hours later I accepted it. That was just a few days ago. Now this Monday I'm signing papers and searching for an apartment in a town already overrun by college students (I love you guys :P ).

So, here is my official announcement. I am teaching at Madison Grant in Fairmount, IN this year! So all those middle school Algebra students and high school Precalculus students better watch out. They have no idea what's coming their way. ;) It'll be a huge learning process. But shoot, I've been waiting for this moment for over a decade. One would hope I'd be ready by now. And I think I'm as near ready as any first year teacher can come. Except that I don't have my textbooks or classroom yet. All in due time. Most importantly, I'm just plain excited. There's no fear, apprehension, or anxiety. At the moment, I'm only concerned about finding a place to live- I need to move out in less than two weeks.

Speaking of which, remember when I said, once upon a time, that I was setting myself up for a last minute hire? Well, I got it. And after today everything but my furniture and clothes in my closet are ready to go. So let's find that apartment, rent that Uhaul, and get her moving. :)

For those of you who will be at/around TU in the fall, I expect to see you and have the chance to feed you at least once in the course of the upcoming year. Maddawgs, bring over those DC bananas, we'll put them to good use and carry on the banana bread tradition. ;) Love you gals!

Encouragement

[To be read like an automated telephone messaging system.]
...For encouragment #1, read the comments on the previous post; for encouragement #2, read the excerpt from an email below; for encouragement #3, recall the tentative job offer from that IN school...(yes, I received a tentative offer from Madison-Grant today :P)

---
Lately with so many employment dead-ends, i've not even wanted to express any hope when it comes to new prospects - but you know what? Hope is a good thing, even if it doesn't work out. So here's hoping.

Take heart dear friend, the Lord always knows what he is doing.

I love you and miss you,

Anna

---
I hear back from two schools on Monday. One will tell me if a) I got the job b) I didn't get the job or c) I need to come back for another interview. The other is to formally extend an offer- barring any extenuating circumstances. Oh, and by the way, that former school is one in western Michigan. I got a surprise phone call yesterday morning and went out and interviewed this morning. Lord, please let my MI certificate arrive ASAP. Yes, life is still crazy. But in a few days I'll be able to decide where I'll be next year...

Double O C

Double O C. Out of control. (Thanks Maddawgs for the standardized abbreviation.) I'm certain that there will be points of life later on that seem much more out of control than the present circumstances. In fact, I'm quite certain that this will look calm in comparison to the following weeks.

However, that does not alter the fact that at this moment life does seem very much out of control. Nearly every aspect of my life, or at least the details contained therein, is out of my hands- the largest of which is still the lovely unemployment which consistently looms over my head and haunts me at the most awful times. :P

I'm entirely unable to plan my days for the [welcomed] interruptions of late notice interviews. And, truth be told, I was handling it all as well as could be expected until yesterday. Monday afternoon mom, KK, and I drove down to Upland and spent the night so I could be at the high school for my interview by 9. It all went smoothly and according to plan. We even had time to spend with Amo on Monday night. The interview went well, I enjoyed meeting the principal and assistant principal and seeing the school. But a 10-hour round trip in the car in less than 30 hours took a toll.

Then this morning I received a surprise call from a MI school. I submitted an application nearly a month ago and had assumed the position had been filled. Apparently not. I'm driving out tomorrow morning for an interview. Oh boy.

And of course this is all immediately following my Sunday night return from dear Amy and Lance's wedding. That event was entirely beautiful in every possible aspect. Naturally, it will require further discussion at a latter point in time.

yet despite all the uncertainty, my interview yesterday reminded me of something very important. I love high school. I love high school students. And I cannot wait to teach. Even in the frustrations of countless applications, interviews, and spontaneous travels that still remains the same.

Life is so up in the air that sometimes I wonder if all the pieces will settle again... and if they do, will they fall where I want them to?

Random Bullet Point List of Updates

This is going to be rather incoherent, so let's just skip the formalities and update on bullet points, shall we?

• Kirstin and I got our hair cut today. It's short. What ponytail I can muster sticks straight into the air (see picture below left). It's quite entertaining, actually. :P



• I signed up for a library card. Yes, I had one before. It expired. I thought it would be a good idea to have my own while I still have a legal address in the county. [I checked out two Tolstoy books and a classic Austen for reading over the next two weeks. Fun times. :)]


• I landed an interview at Madison-Grant High School back down in cornfields, IN next Tuesday. There's a random story behind that which we may get to sometime, but not tonight. Not really sure how I feel about the whole ordeal yet.


• I packed for Amy's wedding, my interview, and vacation tonight. Craziness.
  
• Mom, Kirstin, and Tim are going to come down to IN with me when I have to make the trip for my interview (which is totally great). We've promised a stop at Ivanhoe's. :)


• Kirstin painted my toenails tonight. They look beautiful.


• Tim very casually told me that he really likes my interview outfit and that I look professional. (Aren't brothers incredible?!)


• In a few short hours I'm flying to WI for one of my close friend's weddings. (Hooray for flying.) .... (OK, OK... hooray for Amy's wedding!)


• Kelsey just called this evening. She'll be at the wedding as well. It's going to be SO good to see that tracksta gal!


• Erin is driving up from Indy. We're planning on snatching some QT together over the weekend.


• Tabitha is flying out of Madison with me Sunday morning- except that she's going to FL. :)


• Technically the next two weeks are family vacation. With my interview and such, I'm not really sure how it'll all pan out, but don't expect to hear from me for an undetermined amount of time.


• We're nearing month five of researching and applying for jobs. It's become taxing and slightly frustrating (granted, I did start a tad early). I'm greatly looking forward to the time when this process is over- hopefully with a happy ending.


• "You do SuDoKu in pen?!" -Steffi (yes, I do)


• I miss my TU gals like crazy. I miss TU like crazy. I [almost] miss student life. But I don't want to go back. Strange? Perhaps. (yes)


• Talking to friends in Bethlehem, PA makes me miss my CTY students and instructor (Liz!) from last summer. That was an amazing time, but I know it wouldn't have worked well for this summer. Perhaps another year...


• I'm going to bed so I'm awake for tomorrow's travels.

LBD

I don't know how I managed to last 22 years without such an "essential" item in my wardrobe. (OK, I do know how. Her name is Lolly Edgerton. She has very graciously dressed me on several occasions.) But then again, I'm not exactly sure how June 14th marked my first attendance at a wedding either. Perhaps I'm just a little behind on this loop. Regardless, I am proud to announce the purchase of a Little Black Dress today. Congratulations, Becky. You can now dress yourself for Amy's wedding and no longer have to rely on your former teammates (not that any of us minded). After yesterday's events, I suppose you could call it retail therapy. I, on the other hand, will call it last-minute bargain hunting, for that is [also] what it was.

Fifty-eight hours until I depart for the Maddawg-Jarhead extravaganza of the century. After waiting nearly two years, it's hard to believe the Brown-Vanderberg wedding is almost here... :)

"We decided to go in a different direction..."

Well, the phone call came in. No job, folks. They decided to hire a math/physics guy instead. Somehow I had the feeling that double major option would come back to haunt me someday. :P I was very much hoping for that position, so I'm taking some time to adjust and figure out what to do next. At this point, there are no postings open (save the ones at Kalamazoo that have been up for a few months now). Thus, my holding pattern at this point is more than likely to see little to no action. If there are no jobs, there are no applications. No applications means no interviews... and you get the point. It's frustrating.

I'll tell you one thing, God is doing a marvelous job teaching me patience and trust. I just wish I could be a better student at times.

And so the search continues...

On another note:
If nothing else, tonight I realized how little I understood friends who were in this circumstance before me- how internally insensitive I was at times- simply because there was really no true way I could appreciate their struggle. Saying "It's OK, something will come along" is much easier when you still have a few years of college ahead of you. Believing it at this stage takes just a little more faith. So to those who have gone before me, I think I'm just beginning to understand the hardship you survived of not having a job post-graduation. I'm sorry I couldn't understand until now, but thank you tremendously for your unending patience with me. :)

World Records and A Family Affair

If you're looking for something to watch these next few days, check out the Olympic Trials. It's only kind of a big deal. If you choose to devote your time to swimming, watch out for the Vanderkaay name. It may be preceded by either the first name Christian, Peter, Alex, or Dane. It's hard to tell, all four brothers are competing in Omaha. All four brothers from dear old Rochester. It was great when Peter won gold four years ago (he's going to Beijing), but to have all four siblings go through the same club coach, attend U of M, and compete at the same Trials... well, now that's just a family affair.

Oh, and Michael Phelps and Katie Hoff set new world records in their respective 400 IMs. Peter no longer holds the American record in the 400 free, but that's of small consequence at the moment.

In track and field news... Tyson Gay competed in the 100m dash. 10.14 in prelims and 9.77 in quarterfinals (and sets a new American record beating Maurice Green's previous record by .02 seconds). Semis- 9.85. But that's not all.

Finals. 9.68.

Although there was a 4.1m/sec wind aid and the time does not count as an official world record, it is definitely the fastest time any human being has ever run for 100m. Now that is incredible.

I just love the Olympic season... :D

Things that make me smile (part 2)

In past summers, my close girlfriends from Taylor, namely Deb and Rach, and myself exchanged periodic e-mails and phone calls to stay in touch. Recently we reinstated this standard form of communication with the addition of two others, Vanna and Sarah. In these short correspondences it is quite evident to me how different the five of us truly are. And yet, by the grace of God, we were brought together for a few years to live together, learn from one another, and love each other. Now that we've spread across the country (literally- we're in Maine, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Missouri, and Texas) it's strange thinking that the only likely occasion to bring us all to the same geographic location is weddings (ladies, spread them out, please). Yet despite that fact, the typical conversations, jargon, and mannerisms are still quite evident in our written word. That in and of itself is enough to make one smile. The past few correspondences have held little more than life updates and how the four of us graduates are still unemployed.

But my dear Jonesy still makes me smile with her words- almost to the point of tears. For she said one of those things that really makes me stop and realize that I have true friendships in these girls- true appreciation and love for them. Not only am I missing them dreadfully at times but they too, in a rare moment, also miss me. (Now that's something to marvel at. :P)

And here are her words...

"Rachel, I miss your comforting sarcasm. I know that doesn’t make sense in words, but I always loved our similarities. Debi, I miss your social competence. Whenever I got stuck in my little shell of awkwardness, I could just think WWDD? And I’d be just fine. ;) (This has sort of failed me since you’ve left…) Becky, I miss your hugs and smiles. Goodness, woman, there are some thing you just never know you’re missing until they’re gone. Vana, no one makes me think and simultaneously laugh as much as you do…somehow this week I’ve deeply missed sitting in the back of your Volvo, eating left-over track cookies..."

[mmmm... track cookies... :) ... or just track...]

And it goes on from there. I think if there are any miracles in my life, my friendship with these girls is definitely one of them. :) Love ya, ladies!

Things that make me smile...

Tim, while I'm sewing a button back on his shorts- "Becky, you've got skills." (This is why brothers are great to have around. They make you feel so appreciated sometimes.)

From one of my former roommates, Ashley- "I know you will find a teaching job... Who wouldn't want to hire beautiful and gifted Miss Hegelein, track star and math wiz???"

Interview? Check.

Whew! If the last three days weren't a whirlwind of activity and emotions, I don't know what is. (Alright, that may only be a slight exaggeration.) Wednesday morning I packed up some clothes and my 'file box' with my credentials and records and research on all my districts. I left home a little after 1 and arrived at the Jevert hotel right around 4, just in time to help with a little dinner prep. :) I spent that evening relaxing with the Jeverts and rereading some literature on the current high school of interest. This morning brought a lovely 7am wake-up, breakfast, shower, and short little 20 minute jaunt to the high school. I walked in early and one of the deans of students gave me a tour of the building prior to my interview. The library was a bit small, but the theatre and classrooms are huge! Yes! I then had a panel interview with 6 math teachers (half of the department) and the principal. They were wonderful. And, as far as I can tell, it all went quite well. I should hear back from them sometime Monday, so this weekend could be rather interesting. :P

I left the interview and drove home to the other side of the state, of course including a stop at Quizno's for lunch. I arrived home at 2, promptly collapsed on the couch, and mom and I watched "Pride and Prejudice". I made it about halfway through before I realized Kirstin was waking me up for dinner. My sleep pattern is far from normal and I don't know when it will begin to resemble some sort of schedule again.

Dad comes home from Germany tomorrow and we all head out to the lake for the weekend. Hopefully next week will include another trip out to western Michigan before my weekend in WI for Amy's wedding to be directly followed by family vacation. Crazy times!

Well, that's pretty much it for now. I'll probably snag some Oreos from the pantry before moseying upstairs for the evening. And it's another waiting period for Miss H. I'm almost becoming good at this game. :P G'night y'all.

Are you available Thursday morning? [YES!]

Sunday: The principal from my #1 choice high school called me. We had a 'phone interview' of sorts. He said they would ask 4 of the candidates to come for a panel interview. I would know by Tuesday evening. I thanked him and hung up. I was super excited. I ran circles around the kitchen.
Monday: I waited on pins and needles.
Tuesday: I waited on pins and needles. My phone never left my side. 7:00 at dinner- "mom, how late does 'evening' go?". 7:30, my phone rings. I have an interview at 9:40 Thursday morning. I jumped up and down. Multiple times. I made phone calls to important people to share my joyous news. :) Mom, Kirstin, and I picked out my interview outfit. I made arrangements to stay with Susan's family tomorrow night. I don't know how in the world I'm going to fall asleep tonight.

I have an interview! :D
Thank you, Lord!

Not only did that all happen, but today in the mail the fee request for my MI provisional teaching certificate arrived. I detached the appropriate papers, attached the appropriate postage, and promptly sent that letter and check off in the mail. According to my paperwork, I should receive that lovely certificate within 30 days. The pieces are all coming together. Maybe someday soon we'll actually have a completed puzzle. Woo hoo! :D

Teammates, Running, and Routines

Teammates:
One of my [former] teammates, Mark, was shot yesterday after flying home to the Bahamas. He was hit in the pelvis and story has it that bystanders convinced the assailant from taking any further action. He underwent surgery and is currently recovering in the hospital. His wife and children are there with him. I would like to ask for your prayers to surround Mark, his family, and the entire event. There were some incredible circumstances that turned his life to Christ and then allowed him to come to Taylor and compete for us. He and his family help run the Joshua and Esther Foundation. For more information, visit their website here.

Running:
First of all, I love coaching track workouts. :) Absolutely love it. Kirstin had half-mile repeats today. We visited the track right after (and then during) a bit of rain. I love the smell of a wet track. :) It's such a different perspective standing on the timing ladder by the finish line watching her run and yelling splits. Anyway, she had an incredible workout. For great high school races, her coach would give her, as well as several other distance girls, cupcakes as a reward. Thus, they "run for cupcakes". So tonight I thought it would be fun to pick up some cake mix on the way home. We had chocolate cupcakes after dinner tonight. :)
OK, so maybe it's not running, but Tim is taking a gym class the next few weeks so that he can continue to do band all four years of high school. Today I'm fairly certain he played basketball for three hours straight, participated in various other physical activities, came home, crashed, and then went to swim practice for a few hours this evening while KK ran. He's getting his fair share of physical activity!

Routines:
So I've been home for a month. Tomorrow KK and I are attempting to implement a consistent schedule in our day as the current lack of one is driving us bonkers. Here's my rough outline:
6:30- wake up
7- drive Tim to school
8- return home and eat breakfast
8:30- accompany KK on her workout for the day
10- return home, do core workout/lift, shower
10:30- begin daily chores
12- lunch
1- "Intercessory Prayer" reading time
2- personal cleaning, packing, unpacking, job applications, etc.
Of course chores, reading, cleaning, packing, and applications are interchangeable, but this is at least a beginning to some better organization. Tonight I'm thankful for the chance to drive Tim in the mornings- it gives me a direct purpose for getting up early. :) And since I'm getting up early, I guess that also means I should be getting to bed early. That may take a little more work. ;)

Acquisition of a Sandwich Maker

Still no updated pictures.
Still no more interviews.
Still... well, you get the point. Not much has changed. Except for one thing...

You see, today was a big cleaning day in the house. As such, I volunteered to make lunch for mom and Kirstin. (Note: Tim began his summer class today and wasn't home. I didn't leave him out of lunch.) Thanks to the influence of my [former] roommate, I appeared quite creative to those I was feeding. I made pizza sandwiches. Of course, this was only after learning that mom had a sandwich maker. It was a wonderful time. Not only was lunch delicious and filling (and warm on a cold cold day-boo), but at the end of the story I inherited mom's sandwich maker. That is correct, I am now the proud owner of another small kitchen appliance for a kitchen that I do not have. Go figure.

For now my sandwich maker is sitting in a cardboard box in the living room next to Fred (my clown fish tea kettle- remember?). Although the sandwich maker may be feeling dejected at not having a name, he doesn't have a face and therefore I'm rather certain I won't be able to discern any emotion or foster any sort of relationship with him. He may, however, take comfort in knowing that whenever I see him or use him I will be lovingly reminded of my roommate. That is, of course, far better than having one's own name.