Tuesday, January 18, 2011

10,500 miles later.

That is how many miles I have managed to put on my car since we purchased it in August. All those miles between home, school, and downtown Phoenix (where my grad classes are) have added up faster than I ever imagined. So where am I at now, with all these miles under my belt?

Well, I finally feel like an actual teacher now, not just someone playing pretend. An adult who is in charge of children, attempting to change their life trajectory (to use TFA jargon). I must say, I can almost grasp the elusive Utopian ideal that is an organized, prepared, cool, and confident teacher (almost). Grad classes start back up next week so we'll see how long that feeling lasts.

In an attempt to balance school with a real life, much has happened in the new year. Brandon and Katie, friends from Iowa, graced us with their presence and we spontaneously went to
the Grand Canyon to experience snow. I dug out out all my Iowa cold-weather gear and discovered just how thin our blood is already. Despite the temperatures, the canyon still amazes me in all its grandeur. And it was nice to drive 3 hours back to the sunny desert!

In an attempt to work on my domestic skills, I pulled out the sewing

machine and made some stuffed dinosaurs for all my favorite little people. I am now working on a weighted blanket for some kids at school who have some sensory issues. I figure I'd better start convincing Brad I'll make a fabulous stay-at-home wife when I am done teaching.

I also drove to Vegas and took possession of my best friend, Lindsey's, dog. She is serving our nation in Afghanistan as a member of the Air Force and I offered to takecare of her dog for a bit.

Sasha Fierce is loving our place, especially the dog smells around the complex since everyone here seems to own a dog. And I enjoy having company when Brad is working late.

You can't see my hand, but this is Sasha giving me a high five ------->