Catching Up On Reading

Genre: Science Fiction
Rating: 8/10
First Published: 1979
The earth is destroyed to build a freeway and that is where the adventure begins. I enjoyed the fact that the author did not assume the reader is a moron. The humor is intelligent and I appreciated that.

My favorite character in this novel is Ford Perfect. This intergalactic hitchhiker is a survivor. Like the car company he is name after, he manages to keep his head just above water (even when the odds are against him).



Genre: Fiction/Fantasy
Rating 7/10
First Published: 2004

My middle school students will appreciate this prequel to the Peter Pan story. In this story we get more background information about the Lost Boys, Captain Hook (before the hook), and Tinker Bell. It is a delightful, well told story.

My favorite characters in this story were actually minor characters. The mermaids in this story were not your typically gently, sexy mermaid variety. These girls could really defend themselves and were not afraid to make an offensive maneuver.



Genre: Fiction/Fantasy
Rating: 10/10
First Published: 1990

This story, about a botched Apocalypse and a missing Antichrist, was the best of the lot and one of the best books I have read in a while. There are those that have difficulty with this type of book because they feel we should not joke about such things. I take this type of literature for what it is - fiction.

I literally could not put it down, and kept a close eye on anyone who grabbed my book to see what I was reading. My behavior may have given my orthopedic specialist the impression that I think he may be a book thief. My next appointment is in a year, which gives him time to forgive and me time to find another great book with which to tempt him!

My favorite character was (I hate to say it.) the demon, Crowley. If you have a horrible job about which you have some issues, who says you can't do it with style. And if anyone is wondering, Crowely is the same crawling demon that was there in the garden with Eve.

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse were presented in an interesting way. I had not really considered the variety of ways famine presents itself today, or the similar outcomes resulting from pestilence and pollution.

A Day of Culture

Yesterday, I went to the Bowers Museum to view the Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit.



They didn't allow any pictures, and as far as I'm concerned the ones I bought aren't nearly as good as the pictures I would have taken. Anyway, I bought a few things to share with my social studies classes, peeked in the Gems exhibit briefly, and then it was off to visit Dad. Most of the visit was spent working on an iPod/iTunes problem which, I am proud to say, was fixed after going through a few hidden files and transferring information. Dinner at a local seafood restaurant was just compensation for my hard work.

Fresh Air and Sunlight

I have learned at almost 45 years of age that there are things you don't talk to others about, especially not with friends. I'll take it for granted that they say and do the things they do because they have my best interest at heart and not their own noisiness. They are, after all, supposedly my friends. My older, and wiser, neighbor said that she understood my side and I am correct. It was one of those debates that really boils down to is believing that what is right for me is right for everyone.

To blow off some steam, I got into the garden, pulled, dug, and poured. Fresh air and sunlight are good therapy. Unfortunately, the battle with my friends has been squashed and the fight with the snails begins.




Is "Snail Food" another name for marigolds?

The Bell Jar

The Bell Jar, by Sylvia Plath, is the story of one young woman's mental breakdown. I consider it a combination of Catcher in the Rye and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Plath's descriptions of the main character's breakdown, shock therapy treatment, and the asylum she is placed in are very well done.

I have to admit it took me a while to get into this one. Once it became clear that Esther Greenwood was not merely depressed, the pace picked up and I could not stop reading.

Rating: 8/10

The Messenger

This book, a companion to Gathering Blue and The Giver, is the story of Matty, the village messenger. As he waits to receive his true name, life in the village changes for the worst, and he discovers that he has a strange gift. In the end, Matty's true name reveals his true role in the lives of the villagers and the village itself.

I really enjoyed this book. It was not as detailed as its companion novels, but it did an excellent job of bringing together the three societies created by Lois Lowry. I started reading it last night and finished early this afternoon. It definitely kept my attention.

Rating: 10/10

Read Aloud/Think Aloud

As I was doing some reading and planning for the coming school year, I revisited a read aloud/think aloud I did with my reading class this past year. The novel I chose, Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech, was one that I had never read. The think-alouds were genuine examples of how readers digest a text. When I said I was surprised by a characters actions I really was and students could sense that. My predictions were actually predictions and they seemed to be more comfortable sharing their own predictions because of this. Sometimes I was right, sometimes a student was correct, and sometimes we were all wrong. Students were engaged and did a great job on the assignments that went with the readings.

This activity raised what I consider to be a worthwhile question. Is there any benefit in exposing students to this type authentic reading compared to our annual readings of the district core novels? One provides authentic examples/modeling of what good readers do, and the other places a greater emphasis on students using these strategies (will giving dramatic re-enactments of what good readers do). With the pacing guide, adopted curriculum, and numerous district and state tests will I get enough bang for my buck if I do this with my language arts class? I do believe it will be most beneficial in creating life long readers, but that does not always translate to test scores.

Coming and Going

Starbucks has announced that they will be closing 600 locations nationwide. Is this Starbucks location really coming soon? I guess I shouldn't worry since there are three Starbucks Coffee shops less than one mile west of this one and three more one mile east of this one.

Hooray! This is my first completed book challenge!

My theme was "getting back in the game". I liked reading about one theme for a while because I feel like I actually learned something about it. Caribousmom, thanks for the great opportunity! I wouldn't change a thing.

My final book list and what I learned from each:

Eat, Love, Pray by Elizabeth Gilbert - Don't lose your balance, work through things body, soul, and spirit. Allow God to heal your pain.

Without Reservations by Alice Steinbach - Just get back in there and consider the ups and downs part of the adventure.

Chosen by a Horse by Susan Richards - Make connections and allow them to help you heal.

The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion - Getting back in the game has its own rules (For example, "the vortex" is unavoidable), and you're not the first or last to go through it (Allow yourselft to heal. Despite how it feels, you will.)

The book I enjoyed the most was Chosen by a Horse. It caught me off guard because I just didn't expect to get taken in by the plot, but I was captivated from the beginning.

Themed Book Challenge

Title: Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India, and Indonesia
Author Elizabeth Gilbert
Genre: Biography
Year Published: 2006

This covers some of the same themes that are covered in Without Reservations by Alice Steinbach with the additional theme of spirituality and depression. The author finds different parts of herself in India, Italy, and Indonesia. Having read both of them

This was my second reading of this book (I initially read it last spring), and it was unusually difficult to get through. I think I had taken what I could from it during the first reading, or perhaps I'm just in a different place now.

"Going into that meditation cave every day is supposed to be this time of divine communion, but I've been walking in there lately flinching they my dog used to flinch when she walked into the vet's office..." (Gilbert, p. 141)

We have all had times when we have approach our spirituality from a different angle in order to make a connection. Gilbert takes you with her as she struggles with her spirituality. In my opinion, the spiritual theme (Hindu),which ties this book together, gives balance to Gilbert's personal growth. Body, soul, and spirit, she is transparent. She has problems and difficulties that happen to many of us, and she grows.

Rating: First Reading 9/10
This Reading 7.5/10

Musings

Just a few thoughts here.

1. How did we become the person we are? Better yet, how do we become the person we want to be?

2. I'm going to start sending myself postcards during my travels.

3. I have made my peace with it. Surgery for fibroids in December (Yes, I know -- Christmas). I just refuse to spend another wonderful summer recuperating... which means I need to begin having one. (I went on a shopping spree yesterday to officially kick-off "My Wonderful Summer".)

4. I am definitely getting the house painted.

5. I am still thinking about a post I saw on TravelinOma's blog and a corresponding post which was on Marta's blog. I do believe that real writers blog (just look at CTG), but I do not feel that every blogger is a writer. No, I do not consider myself a writer. I'm just someone who feels connected by sharing their thoughts and if blogging is a way to do that, count me in. I'm more of a speaker and storyteller (emphasis on teller) than a writer.
Do you consider yourself a writer?

Themed Book Challenge

Title: Without Reservations: The Travels of an Independent Woman
Author: Alice Steinbach
Genre: Biography

Without Reservations contains the memories and musings of Alice Steinbach in her quest to be spontaneous and independent. Her journey takes her on a solo trip through Europe. During this journey, she meets many people and has many experiences which help redefine who she is and give clarity to shared female experiences and feelings.

"But the work has it perils: spending large chunks of time immersed in another person's life makes it easier to lose track of one's own place in the world." (Steinbach, p. 25)

Although Steinbach is talking about the work of being a newspaper reporter, she has captured what happens to many parents, caregivers, and teachers.

I love the way she sends post cards to herself during her trip! It causes the journey to continue after you return home. I am going to start doing this.


What I learned:
When it comes to getting back in the game -- Just do it, be open to the positive, and enjoy the moment (even the rough spots are part of the adventure).

Rating: 7/10

Herding Cats Challenge

Okay, here is my list of books to read for the Herding Cats Challenge:

1. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

2. Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale

3. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

3. Good Omens by Terry Prachett and Neil Gaiman

Weekly Geek

This weeks challenge is right up my alley (see challenge post here). In a nutshell, organize your book challenges, reviews and posts. I am doing more book challenges this summer, so this will help me get them in order. It will also give me a chance to work on my blog in general.

I am currently signed up for the following book challenges:

The Herding Cats Challenge

The Themed Book Challenge

The YA Challenge 2008

Herding Cats Book Challenge

I found this book challenge listed by Bottle of Shine on LiveJournal
(see official challenge post here)

The gist of it is to list ten books you love, and then read three books from other peoples lists.

My “Herding Cats" List

1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
2. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
3. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
4. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
5. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
6. Life of Pi by Yann Martel
7. A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
8. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
9. Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
10. Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

Other Noteworthy Books

1. The Last Lecture by Richard Pausch
2. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez

Deadline

YA Book Challenge

Deadline is the story of a young man (17) who finds out he has one year to live. How will he live out his last days? He has a plan but as we all know, things never go quite as planned.

I finished this novel some time ago but never got around to posting a review. This was my first Chris Crutcher novel, and it had my attention from page one. Not only was the ending not what expected, at every turn this novel took my into corners and crevices of modern life which I normally cover my eyes as I pass. Crutcher just put the ugly side of life out there, showed how people deal with it, and moved on to the next obstacle. From what I hear Mr. Crutcher is good at this sort of thing. Admittedly, there were parts which required a suspension of belief, but what good entertainment doesn't. Not only would I recommend this book to others, I have already passed it on to several friends.

Rating: 10/10

The Year of Magical Thinking

Themed Book Challenge

In a sincere effort to complete the Themed Book Challenge this month, I read The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion. This is nonfiction personal account losing her husband and her daughter. I had never read anything by this author and was amazed at the detailed manner in which she wrote about such a raw, personal experience.

In chapter ten, Didion introduces the "vortex effect" which made me glad I put this on my Getting Back in the Game themed reading list. The power of familiar places, objects, or phrases to take us back to "the way things were before" is common to all experiences that we must get through and from which we must move on.

In the final chapter, the author states:

"I know why we try to keep the dead alive; we try to keem them alive in order to keep them with us." (Didion, p. 225)

I feel this also applies to relationships gone sour. We want to hang on the what we feel were "the good times". Moving from "we" to "I" and being open to a new "we" takes you through a very similar process. Respectfully, they are not the same. With divorce or breakup there is still the possibility of positive interactions, no matter how unlikely. In death interaction is no longer possible.

"I could not count the time during the average day that something would come up that I needed to tell him. This impulse did not end with his death. What ended was the possibility of response." (Didion, p. 194)

The message learned from this novel is that as time moves on we gain chronological distance from experiences of loss. In our simple efforts to continue living and be productive, we build new memories, learn to manuveur the rises and falls of life, and gradually get back in the game.

Rating: 8/10
Heavy reading for some. Would not recommend it to anyone who might not appreciate Didion's detailed analytical style.

Boredom

I am clearly extremely bored. I missed the opportunity to enroll in summer school because I just couldn't function with my computer as it was. Today, I am going to begin working on some things for the coming school year, and I am going to work on the molding in the dining room (caulking). Hopefully, one of these things will fulfill my desperate need for a project. Tomorrow, it's off to Carlsbad for the day. My mother is actually on the brink of asking me to stop calling her (I think I'm up to three times a day.) Her parting words to me this morning were, "Okay, I'll talk to you next week." Normally I would consider a statement like that progress on her part, but now -- not so much. My dad has gone from talking very little on the phone to actually having a conversational word count on the negative side of the number line (Hello. Are you there?).

The Power of Heat

I never ceases to amaze me how one change or alteration to my sensitive life alter my animated, go-getter personality. Those three days without AC are, thus far, the sole entries on my "Lost Days of Summer" list. I was just to drained to do anything.

I have friends who say that this list should have as many entries as possible because in their humble, yet loud, opinion all the days of a break should be spent lounging and doing nothing in particular. I disagree. After the first day I become extremely bored. Must...have [gasp, gasp]...projects.

How do you think summer days should be spent?

Change in Plans

It's funny how life has a way of altering your priorities. When my vacation started I had a very clear idea of how my time and money would be spent this summer. Since that time my priorities have been changed.

Thursday night, my AC went out. Considering the fact that we are in the midst of a heat wave, that sucks.

For the past few months my laptop has been cutting off every 40 minutes or so. Now it is at every 8-10 minutes. That makes it difficult to get anything done, however, I may have discovered the cause of this problem. This morning I took it off the desk and positioned it in my lap in such a way that more air was able to circulate under the computer (no, it was not a very "ladylike" sitting position). It stayed on the entire time I was working. I believe it has been overheating (I just did some research and found out that this is a common problem with Toshiba laptops). It apparently needs some cleaning and one of the fans is not working.

Between these two situations is one very bored middle school teacher with a new to do list for the summer.

1. Get AC repaired (the repairman will be here this afternoon).
2. Buy desktop computer to use at home while laptop is being repaired and cleaned. I need my internet fix and unlike ms_teacher I am not Blackberry ready.
Depending on the cost of these two items that may be the extent of my summer spending. The remainder of my summer adventure will be determined by the kindness of strangers and friends, coupons, and my own resourcefulness. This could turn out to be quite an adventure after all.

Things I've Learned About Men

Once you allow the heart to heal and meet a genuinely good man, it opens your eyes to things about the opposite sex.

1. They say what they mean.
"I liked your hair the way it was", means just that and not that he does not like your new hairstyle.

2. They are intrigued by women who know what they want.

3. They genuinely enjoy our company, even during the _____ game (basketball, football, baseball, soccer....you fill in the blank.)

4. They have talkative moments, not many, but they have them. They usually happen during a day that you spend doing something he enjoys and thought you would not. As a matter of fact, at times like these, you can shut them up and don't want to. They are actually amusing.

5. They really do love us.

6. They have flaws.

7. They get scared too.

8. They are capable of great things.

9. They have baggage too. They just don't unpack, sort, and analyze every piece. Living out of the suitcase is fine with them.

10. They never "need" help, but they can always "use" a hand, a hug, or directions.

I Made It

Hooray! Its finely here! The first day of summer break.. We go back a week earlier next year so this break will be slightly shorter, but I am not complaining. I have several goals for this summer. They include:

Finish the Themed Book Challenge

Get up at the same time I do when I go to work. Having waking and retiring times is good for the body…so I hear.

Write, write, write!

Plan for 1st semester of the coming school year

Caulk and paint the molding in the dining room

Gardening

Start a compost bin

Eat healthier. I have already started this (along with a detox and acupuncture) in my effort to deal with my fibroids and for better overall health. Just using Evening Primrose Oil and increasing my Omega- 3 intake has eliminated my anemia and given me pain free periods for the past year and a half. Now it is the bulk (size) that I am dealing with. I know nothing will make them go away completely, but I don’t want any more growth, and a reduction in size would be nice. I know of cases where it has happened. I also know that every case is different.

Start saving more. Considering the price of gas, food, and everything else, this will be a challenge.

Broaden the borders of my life. In other words, I am open to more socializing, romance, and kayaking ;)

Oh yes, and give the house a thorough cleaning.

I guess you could say I have plans for the summer but being the procrastinator that I am, it will be interesting to see what I accomplish. the work to be done is a given. Having a good time is a choice. I plan to have a great summer!

Themed Book Challenge

Further changes to my list:
My Themed Book Challenge List:

1. How Stella Got Her Groove Back by Terry McMillan Chosen by a Horse by Susan Richards
2. Eat, Love, Pray by Elizabeth Gilbert (this one will be a second reading)
3. Without Reservations: The Travels of an Independent Woman by Alice Steinbach
4. An Italian Affair by Laura Fraser The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

Recent Reads (Within the Last Two Months)

Chosen by a Horse by Susan Richards
Harcourt Books 2006

This was book sent to me by a former co-worker (I just love book swapping!), and I must say it was a very good read. I’m not a horse person (Sorry), but that did not stop me from enjoying this book. What drew me was the story of getting back into the dating game after a divorce. It takes different things to draw a person back in and teach them to trust again, even animals. I could definitely relate to the main characters journey back into dating.

Sometimes novels with this theme sometimes remind me of a jerky ride with someone who is just learning to drive a manual transmission car; however, this was a very smooth read.

9/10

My Themed Book Challenge List:

1. How Stella Got Her Groove Back by Terry McMillan Chosen by a Horse by Susan Richards
2. Eat, Love, Pray by Elizabeth Gilbert (this one will be a second reading)
3. Without Reservations: The Travels of an Independent Woman by Alice Steinbach
4. An Italian Affair by Laura Fraser

Just an Update

It's been awhile since I last posted. Life has been hectic, but the school year is almost over. Here are a few bulleted updates. I will do more extensive posting at a later date.

• Went to San Francisco for the Memorial Day weekend
• Finished several books
• Hooked on audiobooks
• Dealing with fibroids

Are We Testing or Am I Just A Little Testy

Whew! State testing is over, and I really believe that the majority of my students did their best. Summer vacation is just around the corner and I can't wait!

My body has a way of letting me know when the stress is too much to be ignored. Let's see, my skin has broken out, and I have lost hair. Ignoring these things only caused the symptoms to escalate. On Monday, I started having muscle spasms in my neck and left shoulder. I made an appointment for a massage on Monday, during the staff meeting. The massage therapist found out I was under a great deal of stress and decided I would be a good person to experiment on. (I have yet to see the logic behind her decision.) She had me hold warm rocks in my hands and rub them, as she worked on me. That's when the control freak in me tried to take over the relaxation process. "The rocks are my problems and they easily fit in the palm of my hand", I thought. "Gee, I have hard problems, and they're heavy too", I contemplated. Okay, okay...Let's try this. "I am the rocks. I am tough and able to crush the stress." Better. "Gee, I'm so hard, and I'm not as warm as I was when I started. No wonder people don't get too close to me." That was clearly not the right approach either. As the therapist plunged her elbow deep into my shoulder, I considered that throwing the rocks might be the best thing to do.

Never a Dull or Unoccupied Moment

This has been the most stressful week I have had all year. I have been dreading it, and the mere thought of it approaching has sent my head spinning several times. Well not only did it come, I am glad to say it went okay. My mom had hip surgery on Tuesday (same thing I had a little over a year ago)and is fine, I had a sub in my room for three days and the room is still standing, and Open House was Thursday night (I was out that day but got the room in order thirty minutes before the big event). On Friday (after work), I took a couple of hours to catch my breath and a nap before driving to up to Mom's to make sure the transition from hospital to home went well. Having tolerated the annoyances provided by my stepfather and aunt (I never play well with others!), I would love to spend the entire weekend relaxing, but I have one week before state testing begins, papers to grade, and D/F notices to send out.

The waiting room gave me time to think about two things that need attention in my life, a relationship that needs to be defined and books.I've finished several books. Thanks to the wonder of audio books and the CD player in my car, I actually got through two of them this week. I am currently working on another one and have a paperback in progress. I'll post my book reviews a little later. Regarding the man, I'll save that for a later post too ;)

Back to Reality

I am pretty much over the rainbows and butterflies of Spring Break. Nothing like an angry parent, an anal co-worker with email access, parent conferences, and a botched lesson plan or two to snap me back to reality. I got through the week by promising myself I could test two new recipes this weekend.

Okay, okay...by Wednesday, I had to spice up the deal by adding a nightly glass of Maurice Car'rie 2006 Muscat Canelli. A friend of mine had me try it. It's sweet, but not overly so.

This weekend I got some rest and exercise. I also reviewed my stress busting plan (comprised of a decent bedtime, some exercise, and better eating habits). This week should go a lot better but, just in case, I am not ruling out that glass of wine.

A Day in the Sun

Okay, let me begin by confessing that the photo is one I took off the internet and not one I shot. Having said that, I can't believe that I spent time "kayaking" yesterday. It was my first time, and I really enjoyed it. My friends went easy on me since I was a newbie, but I have been assured that from now on I get no special treatment. We spent the afternoon kayaking in Oceanside Harbor, followed by food and drinks. It was a great way to spend the day. I regret not taking my camera, but I'll be ready next time. Yes, there will be a next time.

Dinner Party Success

The dinner party I have been nervously planning was a hit!The guest list included a hodge-podge of personalities and everyone got along fabulously!

The menu was a follows:

Appetizers: small crab cakes, ham and cheese baskets, and phyllo triangle with spinach and feta cheese.

Main Entree: Lasagna, Paella, salad, garlic bread, rosemary bread

Dessert: Tunnel of Fudge cake, pound cake, lemon cream pie, Razzleberry pie, and

Beverages included: a homemade blush sangria (complete with apple brandy), several wine choices, coke, Kona coffee, and water.

Yes, there were glitches, but they just added to the fun.

Twilight Part II

My recent post regarding Twilight, by Stephenie Meyers, crossed my mind today. Specifically, I was thinking about the ways in which Edward Cullen has all the qualities the perfect boyfriend would posses. It then occured to me that he has some pretty serious, in fact dangerous, flaws. I fully understand that it is easy to overlook the flaws of a fictional character, but I'm suprised that I am not as troubled as I should be that Bella is keeping Edward's vampire secret and placing herself in harms way.(This is not a good model for the young ladies who think having a man is more important that having a good one.) I get it...she's in love.

Thinking back on some of the men I have dated in the past, I can see that seemingly minor flaws can be a big deal if there is not chemistry between two people. I guess it's true..."Love covers a multitude of sins."

Twilight

It’s official, I am like every other female who has read Twilight; I'm in love with Edward Cullen! This, first in a series, novel by Stephenie Meyers strongly appealed to my need for escapism. I was captivated on the first page and finished the novel in about four days. Darn those intrusive social and familial obligations! Twilight is a very well told modern day vampire story. It took me back to the first time I read Interview with a Vampire, by Ann Rice. Rice's themes and plot were far more mature, but it was the first time I had heard or seen a vampire story that did not come across as campy. This novel can truthfully make the same claim.

Bella is your run of the mill teenager (with the exception of the vampire boyfriend), who doesn't fit in. Then she meets Edward. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that everyone fits in somewhere. You just have to find the place where the person you are happens to be (no pun intended) the flavor of the month or enough of a novelty to garner attention. In Forks, Bella has found a home. There, even her clumsiness is endearing and unfortunately, more life threatening. All the boys love her, but Edward, with his hypnotic voice and looks to literally "die for", captures her heart.

The suspense sequence is just okay. Am I wrong to look for a Dan Brown level of suspense in a book for young adults?

The sensual scenes, on the other hand, are very well written. They titillate without sending the reader or the characters over the edge. Bravo! They remind me of the novels I secretly read in junior high. Unlike the literature of today, foreshadowing and imagery were the primary sensual story telling devices. Today, they tell entirely too much and take things way too far. I have noticed that this series has an HS logo (for high school or mature content) in the Scholastic flyers. The warning is appropriate, but by comparison this is a tame one.

Rating: 4.4/5

Day of Tears

I recently finished reading Day of Tears, by Julius Lester, as part of the Young Adult Book Challenge. It is a historical fiction novel set during the largest slave auction in U.S. history, "The Weeping Time". The story is told in dialogue format which allows you to hear several perspectives. In addition, you get the characters take on the events as they unfold and as they reflect on them many years later. Lester uses the main character, Emma, and the events of the auction to tie the dialogues together in the least confusing way. Emma demonstrates the emotional and psychological pain which slaves endured and triumphed over. Through this character and others this novel did an excellent job of laying bare the fact that many felt slaves were not human beings and giving voice to the actual depth of their humanity.

True to the historical setting, the "N-Word" appears when many of the white characters refer to or address the characters of African descent. While discussing the use of this term with students, I appreciated the balance of characters represented in the novel. Those sympathetic to the plight of the slaves tempered the cruelty of slave owners and other pro-slavery characters.

Initially, it was easy to put this book aside and not come back to it for days on end. When I finally made a conscious decision to give myself over to the characters, I was able to get through it but still did not feel fully engaged. My use of reading as an escape from the harsher aspects of life is probably to blame there.

I read it with a group of sixth students at my school site and during our biweekly discussion meetings it was clear that this book captured and kept their attention from the beginning. Before passing out novels, I sent home permission slips which gave parents a warning that the text would evoke more emotions than past reads. During SSR in her math class, one young lady began to cry and a classmate, who was also reading the novel, helped her explain to the teacher what brought on her tears. The math teacher was impressed that young people were that engaged in reading, and I was thankful I had been proactive in warning the parents and students.

Rating: 3.5/5

Sorors!

Yesterday, I got together with 13 of my 'sands'. It was the first time we have been together in about 25 years, and I had a blast! It is amazing how we have changed but basically, we are the same as we were back then. The change can best be described as maturity, and the sameness would be our zest for life. We are living life, making positive contributions to our communities, and pursuing our dreams (And whims!).

Living in the past is not healthy, but making peace with it and reminiscing on the good and bad times we've shared with others is energizing.

What Should You Be When You Grow Up

You Should Be a Doctor

You are practical, sharp, and very intuitive. Optimistic and energetic, you are a problem solver who doesn't get discouraged easily. You are also quite compassionate and caring. You make people feel hopeful. You're highly adaptable and capable. You do well with almost any curve ball life throws at you. You do best when you: - Are always learning new subjects - Use your knowledge to solve problems You would also be a good therapist or detective.

What Should You Be When You Grow Up?

I agree with most of this. Oddly, my next career choice was/is being a therapist.

Weekends are Wonderful!

This weekend I got some much needed R&R. On Friday, I went to see The Bucket List with my BFF. (Yes, women over 40 have BFF'S. They are what keep us from doing serious harm to men over 40! LOL) The movie was great and so was the girl talk. Thankfully, she talked me out of spending Saturday morning at work, so I had a partial pj day. That afternoon I rode down to Del Mar with a friend and saw a Cirque Du Soliel performance (Corteo). It was absolutely wonderful. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner on the beach after the show. Sunday, I just basked in the afterglow of it all...and then there was Monday, which has proven to be pretty good in spite of the budget talk during today's staff meeting.

I think the way one spends his or her weekend makes a big difference in how stressful the week gets. The challenge is finding inexpensive or free activities that are relaxing enough to be stress busters.

State of Emergency: Part II

There will be paper! Despite what the district has told us to do, our principal has ordered copy paper. It's good to see that someone remembers that we are a school and certain things, like paper, are typical school paraphernalia. At every turn, our principal tries to consider the needs of teachers and students. That being said, I am fearful that she will be transferred soon. She has been off during the past two weeks, and in her absence major changes have been announced. She came in briefly on Friday, but did not address the staff about the changes. I hope she is not swept away in the next wave of changes.

State of Emergency

For those of you who follow, or are part of, education in the state of California, I am sure you are aware of the governor's declaration of a fiscal state of emergency.

My district has already taken drastic steps in response to the news. For example:

1. No more copy paper for sites. Each teacher usually receives two cases a year(one at the start of the first semester and the other at the beginning of the second semester). This year we received paper for the fall and that is all. But hey, no problem. No paper = no copies. I wonder if they remember that they no longer purchase the consumables that come with our language arts curriculum, and I have been told I cannot legally require students to bring paper to class. Whose supposed to provide the needed paper? What? Who? Me?...Let's see...108 students...Okay, hold your breath and wait for it...wait...keep waiting...

2. All approved and district funded conferences/workshops were reviewed, and several were declined today. I was scheduled to attend a conference next Tuesday. The district paid for it a month ago, and they stated today that it has been declined. They will be requesting a refund (Apparently, our district officials include challenged readers because the form clearly states the deadline for refunds has passed, there will be no exceptions, and it is now too late for me to pay my own registration fees). Furthermore, the sub, who was to cover my class, no longer has an assignment that day. Well, actually, he/she might have one because I am thinking of taking the day off anyway.

It is sad no one contacted teachers before cancelling previously approved items. I know of four of us who were willing to pay out of our own pockets, if necessary, to attend meaningful workshops. We were also willing to use our personal time. Tomorrow, I am going to contact the company that offers the workshop and find out if there is any way I can still attend.

3. Three of our recent inservices have ended with the "motivating" revelation that they will "take our jobs" if this or that is not done. Who are these people who are lined up to replace me? My mother says news reports state we are in the midst of a teacher shortage. If you want to teach middle school raise your hand. Higher, I can't see all those eager people who want my j-o-b.

The only thing this type of threat may result in is me giving them the job and recommending a place for them to shove keep it.

***********

I have often complained about the reactive nature of my district. Today's announcements were further proof of this. I have actually been asked, by a few of our district directors, how a school district could be proactive rather than reactive. Tell you what, I'll conduct the inservice. Let's start with the phrase "Think before you act"!

TGFH

Thank God for Holidays!

I managed to pull myself out of the funk I was expriencing. I felt a lot like Milo, in The Phantom Tollbooth, when he had to think and work his way of the doldrums. My reward...a holiday on which I am not buried under the covers or having a pity party on the sofa. I get to enjoy the weekend and forget about the district and NCLB.

DEPRESSION

Today wasn't one of my better days. I found myself battling depression all day long. Admittedly, I haven't been eating properly, so I tried to correct that problem. I addressed my sleeping habits too. The great concern I have is that these may not be causes, but symptoms. I fear that the pressures of my job may be the root cause. I didn't get depressed until I went back to work.

All of my teacher friends can relate to this and are helping me work through it. Prayer and excercise are helping too.

Procrastination

Yes, I have tons of work to do in preparation for tomorrow, dinner to cook, and other miscellaneous task which require my attention. I, however, have decided to dedicate my time to blogging, party planning, and daydreaming. If you know me, you know that I will get the big important things done (even if it means staying up way too late on the night before the first day back to work).

Gotta love that thing called priorities!

What's in a Name

You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily. You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind. A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable. You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something. You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense. You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun. You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing. You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long. You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Seven Things About Me (Meme)

Let's see...

1. I make the worst pancakes on the planet.

2. I won an essay contest when I was in 8th grade.

3. I still enjoy lounging in my pajamas and watching cartoons on Saturdays.

4. I go into my backyard about three times a year. For all I know, there could be other people living back there.

5. I own a cat even though I am mildy allergic to them. My doctor has learned to accept it.

6. I am extremely unorganized and anti-social, despite all of my calendars, organizers, and social events. I have found that the best way to hide it is to fake it.

7. I function best with nine hours of sleep. Needless to say, very few people have ever seen me at my best.

Themed Reading Challenge

I couldn't resist this one. It turned out to be more difficult to come up with a list than I thought it would be. My theme will be "getting back in the game". Here's my booklist:

1. How Stella Got Her Groove Back by Terry McMillan
2. Eat, Love, Pray by Elizabeth Gilbert (this one will be a second reading)
3. Without Reservations: The Travels of an Independent Woman by Alice Steinbach
4. An Italian Affair by Laura Fraser

I will update this post with an alternate list at a later time.

Young Adult Challenge 2008

Okay, it is true, I didn't get very far in the Armchair Traveler Challenge. I like the idea of book challenges, (They will definitely help with one item on my '08 To Do List.) so I'm giving it another try. Here is my booklist for the Young Adult Challenge 2008:

1. *2/08 Day of Tears: A Novel in Dialogue by Julius Lester
2. *7/08 The Hitchhikers Guide to the Universe by Douglas Adams
3. Cut by Patricia McCormick
4. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
5. *2/08 Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
6. Bounce by Natasha Friend
7. *7/08 Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
8. Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale
9. Something from the Artemis Fowl Series
10. *7/08 The Bell Jar by Sylvia Path
11. Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes by Chris Crutcher
12. *7/08 Messenger by Lois Lowery

Alternate:
*4/08 Deadline by Chris Crutcher
*6/08 Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

* indicates the book has been finished.

My 2008 "To Do" List

1. read more
2. write more (includes more blog posting)
3. cook more
4. increase gym time to more than three days a week
5. keep up with grading
6. challenge my students more without frustrating them
7. keep my home neater
8. finish my home improvement projects
9. start new home improvement projects
10. finish #9
11. work with my mother to finish Conversations With My Mother journal
12. relax more
13. find time to do #1-12

Ahh...The Good Life!

My mother and I went to see The Color Purple today. The play was okay and so was our dinner. To be honest, I wasn't a fan of the book or they movie. My mother said she wanted to go (friends of hers had seen it and raved about it). Two days before the show I found out my mom did not care for the book or the movie either. Needless to say, that set the stage for disappointment with the play. For dinner,we drove back to the IE and went to Le Bellissimo French Bistro. I was a little disappointed because I love French food and was expecting more of a gastric delight than I got. Perhaps I ordered the wrong thing. I will give it one more try but not until spring or summer break. A good friend is teaching me that it is okay to enjoy some of the finer things in life (i.e. good food, good wine, and good entertainment); however, I try to spread out my "money is no object" evenings. Otherwise, money actually becomes more than an object...it becomes a problem.

It Has Been a While

This has been a wild year. Hip replacement surgery. Spiritual overhaul (still in progress). Adding a social life to my repertoire. Allowing another person to take up more of my thought process than a passing fancy. Rekindling my love affair with teaching (not easy to do under the cloud of NCLB). Bottom line -- LIVING!

To say it has been overwhelming at times would be an understatement, but I would not trade what I have or who I am. This new me is happy and more at peace.