How can I be sick ALREADY? School just started on Monday. This school is like a petri dish, I swear. An environment specifically designed to make it easy for germies to grow. More so than other elementary schools, I swear.
One of the native aides here at school (a friend) SWEARS there's a local plant that will make me feel better if boiled to make tea. I think, however, that it's this. You know, like... a hallucinogen. It does say, though, that it's a useful tonic in small doses. And it's a plant that grows naturally around here. It can't be illegal, can it? Can a plant's existence, in and of itself, be illegal? What if it just grows in my yard? Do they arrest me or the plant?
Disclaimer: Drugs are bad, 'mkay?
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Monday, August 22, 2005
First Day of School
Excuse me while I vomit.
I'm MUCH more nervous this year than I was last. Last year, I was so shell-shocked, I don't think I was capable of being nervous. I was just numb from culture shock, I had had only one set-up day in my classroom, and to be honest, I was too dumb to be nervous. This year, however, I know what's in store. I know what I need to get done. I know 90% of my students (all but the new kindergarteners and any transfer students) are students I had last year... so no hiding behind "getting to know you" activities or "I don't know all your names yet." I know we have a lot of first-year teachers who will need help. And most importantly, I know I can do a better job than I did last year. Can't we always?
They're right, whoever "they" are. Ignorance is bliss. Last year was stressful, but I was too dumb to notice. ;)
And I may or may not have had a little too much coffee.
I'm MUCH more nervous this year than I was last. Last year, I was so shell-shocked, I don't think I was capable of being nervous. I was just numb from culture shock, I had had only one set-up day in my classroom, and to be honest, I was too dumb to be nervous. This year, however, I know what's in store. I know what I need to get done. I know 90% of my students (all but the new kindergarteners and any transfer students) are students I had last year... so no hiding behind "getting to know you" activities or "I don't know all your names yet." I know we have a lot of first-year teachers who will need help. And most importantly, I know I can do a better job than I did last year. Can't we always?
They're right, whoever "they" are. Ignorance is bliss. Last year was stressful, but I was too dumb to notice. ;)
And I may or may not have had a little too much coffee.
Friday, August 19, 2005
You know...
It's amazing how long one silver salmon can feed one person. Especially if you make it into soup.
AND... some of the new teachers are going caribou hunting, and they said that if they got one, it'll be for all to share. Sure, it's gamey, but it's meat for a little extra labor and some money for gas and shells. I'm not near the point where I could go out and shoot my own dinner... I'd probably endanger my life or the lives of others. But heck, if the guys get a kick out of it, I'm more than willing to accept some meat.
Not to say I COULDN'T afford meat; I totally could. But when you can legally get your own fish and game, why the heck not?
I'd wager a bet it's healthier meat than you'd find at a grocery store, too. Just a hunch.
AND... some of the new teachers are going caribou hunting, and they said that if they got one, it'll be for all to share. Sure, it's gamey, but it's meat for a little extra labor and some money for gas and shells. I'm not near the point where I could go out and shoot my own dinner... I'd probably endanger my life or the lives of others. But heck, if the guys get a kick out of it, I'm more than willing to accept some meat.
Not to say I COULDN'T afford meat; I totally could. But when you can legally get your own fish and game, why the heck not?
I'd wager a bet it's healthier meat than you'd find at a grocery store, too. Just a hunch.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Fried Brains, Anyone?
My mind is so scattered right now. I have a decent-sized list of stuff to accomplish by the time school starts at 8:30 Monday morning, and I'm doing a good job making progress, but I can't seem to focus on one individual task at a time.
I just have too many things to do, and all of the tasks are fairly attractive (fresh school year, fresh start, fresh ideas, fresh ambition). I'll start out doing one thing, then in the middle of that task some item will remind me of something else, so I start that without even thinking about it. As a result, nothing on my list is "finished," nothing is "not started," and EVERYTHING is "in progress."
And as for why I have been a bad, bad blogger... well, I just haven't had the time or mental focusing capability.
Off to a staff meeting!
I just have too many things to do, and all of the tasks are fairly attractive (fresh school year, fresh start, fresh ideas, fresh ambition). I'll start out doing one thing, then in the middle of that task some item will remind me of something else, so I start that without even thinking about it. As a result, nothing on my list is "finished," nothing is "not started," and EVERYTHING is "in progress."
And as for why I have been a bad, bad blogger... well, I just haven't had the time or mental focusing capability.
Off to a staff meeting!
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Still Here, Don't Fret...
I just haven't been posting because I have to walk up to school to get internet access. I'm going to call on Monday (PAYDAY!) about setting up internet.
New Roomie (the Woman Formerly Known as Roomie moved to a different village) and I decided to try life without TV, but we were in unanimous agreement that home internet access was necessary.
Living without TV will be interesting. I haven't really missed it over the past week. OK, I've missed Jon Stewart, but other than that...
New Roomie (the Woman Formerly Known as Roomie moved to a different village) and I decided to try life without TV, but we were in unanimous agreement that home internet access was necessary.
Living without TV will be interesting. I haven't really missed it over the past week. OK, I've missed Jon Stewart, but other than that...
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Oy
I have some serious focusing issues. Cleaning is hard work, and I've found new ways to distract myself. Sure, I don't have internet or TV yet, but I can sure pop a DVD into my computer! How about a nice book? Oh, one I've read three times already? SURE!
I'm leaving my computer here at school. As for the books, there's not much I can do.
Editing note: I just noticed that I misspelled "read." I assure you that this was a typographical error, and that I DO know the difference between "read" and "red."
I'm leaving my computer here at school. As for the books, there's not much I can do.
Editing note: I just noticed that I misspelled "read." I assure you that this was a typographical error, and that I DO know the difference between "read" and "red."
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Back in the Village!
No internet at home yet, so I have to walk into school to get online... and since I'm (a) lazy and (b) cleaning and re-arranging my home, that probably won't be too often.
But it's good to be back. I'm doing a serious clean-out of my house since I have a new roommate coming. It's actually kinda fun. It's easier to focus on cleaning when I don't have TV or internet to distract me.
But it's good to be back. I'm doing a serious clean-out of my house since I have a new roommate coming. It's actually kinda fun. It's easier to focus on cleaning when I don't have TV or internet to distract me.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Back to Work I Go...
I'll be heading back to the village in a few hours, weather permitting. Rumor has it the internet at the school is down, and I don't have internet at my house yet, so I might be incomunicado for a bit. Don't worry, I haven't been taken hostage or kidnapped or anything.
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Pooooooop
Why do I always end up talking about poop?
Anyway, my friend has a 14 month-old kid named Danny. They're Irish. While sitting around the living room watching him get his diaper changed, I penned (well, OK, I didn't write it down, so technically there was no pen involved) this little ditty to the tune of "Danny Boy," and it has been requested that I publish it...
Oh Danny boy, your butt, your butt is pooping
From nine to five
And five to nine again.
The food is gone,
And yet you are still pooping.
It's you, it's you, must poop
And I must clean.
I apologize for making you read that.
Anyway, my friend has a 14 month-old kid named Danny. They're Irish. While sitting around the living room watching him get his diaper changed, I penned (well, OK, I didn't write it down, so technically there was no pen involved) this little ditty to the tune of "Danny Boy," and it has been requested that I publish it...
Oh Danny boy, your butt, your butt is pooping
From nine to five
And five to nine again.
The food is gone,
And yet you are still pooping.
It's you, it's you, must poop
And I must clean.
I apologize for making you read that.
Sunday, July 31, 2005
I'm Damn Good Company
I know people who refuse to go eat dinner by themselves.
Preposterous, sez me. Why are people so afraid to be by themselves?
I went out for a nice Mexican sit-down dinner this evening, all by myself. I didn't die. No one pointed and laughed and called me a friendless loser. I wasn't even bored. I used to bring a book if I wanted to go out to eat by myself, or limit myself to non-sit-down restaurants, but why? I'm not bad company.
I think tomorrow I'll go to a movie.
Preposterous, sez me. Why are people so afraid to be by themselves?
I went out for a nice Mexican sit-down dinner this evening, all by myself. I didn't die. No one pointed and laughed and called me a friendless loser. I wasn't even bored. I used to bring a book if I wanted to go out to eat by myself, or limit myself to non-sit-down restaurants, but why? I'm not bad company.
I think tomorrow I'll go to a movie.
When the Hell Am I?
It's noon, and I just woke up. Damn these Alaskans and their tendency to put very heavy curtains in hotel rooms.
In my defense, I flew into Anchorage on the red-eye last night. After an hour delay on the ground in Seattle and a three hour flight in a non-window/non-aisle seat, I got in at 2:30 AM and proceeded to wait a half hour for our luggage to burp itself out into the little turnthingy. I then waited 15 minutes for the airport shuttle, rode in said shuttle for 10 minutes, and arrived at the hotel ready to tip over at 3:30AM. A quick shower to remove that icky traveling feeling and I was in bed.
4am to noon is eight hours. I'm not lazy, just off-schedule. Tonight I'm going to attempt to go to bed at a decent hour, Alaska-wise, to see if I can force by body back into the time zone. Right now it's a little confused.
I KNOW WHAT WILL MAKE IT BETTER! A bath in the nice bathtub that fills up to the neck. Nice hotels are fun every once in a while.
In my defense, I flew into Anchorage on the red-eye last night. After an hour delay on the ground in Seattle and a three hour flight in a non-window/non-aisle seat, I got in at 2:30 AM and proceeded to wait a half hour for our luggage to burp itself out into the little turnthingy. I then waited 15 minutes for the airport shuttle, rode in said shuttle for 10 minutes, and arrived at the hotel ready to tip over at 3:30AM. A quick shower to remove that icky traveling feeling and I was in bed.
4am to noon is eight hours. I'm not lazy, just off-schedule. Tonight I'm going to attempt to go to bed at a decent hour, Alaska-wise, to see if I can force by body back into the time zone. Right now it's a little confused.
I KNOW WHAT WILL MAKE IT BETTER! A bath in the nice bathtub that fills up to the neck. Nice hotels are fun every once in a while.
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Nooooooooooooooooooooo!
So it's finally cool enough to make regular (non-iced) coffee. And what do I do? BREAK THE F-ING CARAFE!
Guess I'll go to the coffee shop. :-(
Guess I'll go to the coffee shop. :-(
FYI
1. Little sister who sat through hurricane finally got through to my parents and is indeed fine, just fine. So that's good news.
2. I fly back to AK on Saturday. Who the hell stole my summer? And more importantly, how much beer can I drink before I go back?
3. Going back to the village will be good for my wallet and waistline. I ate out too much and consumed just a wee bit too much beer this summer. I had finally started getting back in shape and putting money in savings, and then WHAM Minnesota happened. At least I didn't spend any of my savings or gain any weight, but certainly didn't make any progress.
4. I started biting my nails again. I had a good solid two weeks nibble-free.
5. It FINALLY cooled down. Two weeks above 90 with high humidity and no air conditioning was not my idea of fun. There's a reason Alaska appealed to me, and it wasn't the bears. I'm wearing jeans for what is probably the first time this summer and am pretty happy about it, thankyouverymuch.
6. What else should I do before leaving civilization?
2. I fly back to AK on Saturday. Who the hell stole my summer? And more importantly, how much beer can I drink before I go back?
3. Going back to the village will be good for my wallet and waistline. I ate out too much and consumed just a wee bit too much beer this summer. I had finally started getting back in shape and putting money in savings, and then WHAM Minnesota happened. At least I didn't spend any of my savings or gain any weight, but certainly didn't make any progress.
4. I started biting my nails again. I had a good solid two weeks nibble-free.
5. It FINALLY cooled down. Two weeks above 90 with high humidity and no air conditioning was not my idea of fun. There's a reason Alaska appealed to me, and it wasn't the bears. I'm wearing jeans for what is probably the first time this summer and am pretty happy about it, thankyouverymuch.
6. What else should I do before leaving civilization?
Monday, July 25, 2005
Bitten by the Bug
Somehow I got bitten by the home-buying bug. I came to the somewhat surprising conclusion that I could, by this time next year, have enough for an adequate down-payment (god willing and the creek don' rise, inshallah, etc, etc, etc) on a starter (emphasis on starter... more on that later) home somewhere in Alaska. I guess I am 26 years old, it's about damn time, huh?
However, it would kinda force me into a position where I'd have to make decisions about my life. Since I can't own a home in the village (me being all non-native and stuff), if I WERE to buy a home, it would be a summer home only for at least a few years. Kinda seems bass ackwards to buy a summer home before buying a regular home, but there you have it.
Seriously, though, the stuff I'm looking at is pretty... quirky. I don't need or want a large house. I really think that a lot of my generation has some pretty lofty expectations when it comes to first-home-buying. I don't... and it makes the whole experience a little less stressful. I can actually picture myself paying off the numbers I'm looking at in some kind of forseeable future.
But really, it's all theoretical at this point. Who knows what'll happen in the next year? My job is pretty secure... they can't cut positions and make one teacher do half time at two schools as is so frequently the case in education because the nearest school is like 30 miles away. But still... don't wanna count the ptarmigan before they're hatched.
However, it would kinda force me into a position where I'd have to make decisions about my life. Since I can't own a home in the village (me being all non-native and stuff), if I WERE to buy a home, it would be a summer home only for at least a few years. Kinda seems bass ackwards to buy a summer home before buying a regular home, but there you have it.
Seriously, though, the stuff I'm looking at is pretty... quirky. I don't need or want a large house. I really think that a lot of my generation has some pretty lofty expectations when it comes to first-home-buying. I don't... and it makes the whole experience a little less stressful. I can actually picture myself paying off the numbers I'm looking at in some kind of forseeable future.
But really, it's all theoretical at this point. Who knows what'll happen in the next year? My job is pretty secure... they can't cut positions and make one teacher do half time at two schools as is so frequently the case in education because the nearest school is like 30 miles away. But still... don't wanna count the ptarmigan before they're hatched.
Sunday, July 24, 2005
Ick
I'm not sure what happened last night, but one of my housemates and I were just sitting around, watching bad Saturday evening TV, when all the sudden, the humidity just spiked to gross heights. We decided that rather than the sit-at-home-drink-some-wine idea we had previously endorsed as "plan for the evening," we needed to be somewhere air conditioned... so off to the bar we went.
Creative problem solving at its best.
Quick example of how repulsively sticky it was... I walked into an airconditioned store. I shopped in sweet climate-controlled comfort. When I exited the store, bag in hand, my glasses fogged up. The difference in temperature and humidity was THAT great.
Yahoo! weather says high of 94 today. Blah. However, tomorrow's highs, and the days after that, are supposed to be at least ten degrees lower, so that's good at least.
A week from yesterday I fly back to AK!
Creative problem solving at its best.
Quick example of how repulsively sticky it was... I walked into an airconditioned store. I shopped in sweet climate-controlled comfort. When I exited the store, bag in hand, my glasses fogged up. The difference in temperature and humidity was THAT great.
Yahoo! weather says high of 94 today. Blah. However, tomorrow's highs, and the days after that, are supposed to be at least ten degrees lower, so that's good at least.
A week from yesterday I fly back to AK!
Saturday, July 23, 2005
Solitude
So, Pa Mac can't come back to AK with me as planned for a little visit when I go back for the school year. I'm seriously bummed out, as is he. It was going to be fun. Waaaaaaaaaaaaah.
But.
I decided, what the hell, I'll just take a little vacation by myself. Not a luxury vacation, but a room in a decent hotel in Anchorage, perhaps a train or bus ride up to Denali National Park, a last chance to drink some beer before a semester of alcoholic chastity, and just some general alone time.
I'm social, I've loved living with good friends and an incredibly cute baby for the summer, but then again, I can overdose on social interaction and need some time to myself. I'm a Gemini; I'm allowed to be a little split-personalitied.
And then... back to work.
But.
I decided, what the hell, I'll just take a little vacation by myself. Not a luxury vacation, but a room in a decent hotel in Anchorage, perhaps a train or bus ride up to Denali National Park, a last chance to drink some beer before a semester of alcoholic chastity, and just some general alone time.
I'm social, I've loved living with good friends and an incredibly cute baby for the summer, but then again, I can overdose on social interaction and need some time to myself. I'm a Gemini; I'm allowed to be a little split-personalitied.
And then... back to work.
Friday, July 22, 2005
OK, That's It...
Who the hell took my summer?
Where did it go?
I can't believe it's only eight days until I head back... then I have another two weeks until school starts... then it's back to the daily grind of educating our nation's youth...
Where did it go?
I can't believe it's only eight days until I head back... then I have another two weeks until school starts... then it's back to the daily grind of educating our nation's youth...
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Monday, July 18, 2005
How 'Bout That Harry Potter, Huh? (no spoilers)
Just finished Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. I know, I know, I'm getting slow in my old age... it took me a day and a half to finish it! But really, I didn't get THAT much reading time in, what with social obligations that had to be tended to. And in my defense, I didn't get it on Saturday (bastards put it in the mailbox, and I didn't find it. Since when does UPS put stuff in MAILBOXES? Honestly), so I didn't really start seriously reading until about 10am on Sunday.
Anyway, holy shit. The last few chapters are killa'. Another LONG book with a seeming overabundance of (probably necessary) exposition, but I think (hope?) it'll all come together quite nicely in Book 7, whenever that hits shelves. I was wrong about a few characters, I'll state that honestly and openly. I was also right about a few.
Hurricane update: Cozumel (nearest town to Little Sister's place of summer employment) got slammed, but all appears to be OK. Hopefully we'll hear from her soon!
Anyway, holy shit. The last few chapters are killa'. Another LONG book with a seeming overabundance of (probably necessary) exposition, but I think (hope?) it'll all come together quite nicely in Book 7, whenever that hits shelves. I was wrong about a few characters, I'll state that honestly and openly. I was also right about a few.
Hurricane update: Cozumel (nearest town to Little Sister's place of summer employment) got slammed, but all appears to be OK. Hopefully we'll hear from her soon!
Sunday, July 17, 2005
The Power of Nature
So my little sister's working down in Mexico this summer at a resort. The resort is located on the Yucatan Peninsula. Just so happens, they're expecting a Class 4 hurricane (whatever that means, I'm a Wisconsin/Minnesota/Alaska girl and while tornado classes mean something to me, I'm not up on hurricane lingo) at around 11pm Central Time tonight.
They've been evacuated to a nice concrete building on higher ground.
I'd be soiling myself in fear and anticipation... wonder how she's doing.
They've been evacuated to a nice concrete building on higher ground.
I'd be soiling myself in fear and anticipation... wonder how she's doing.
Friday, July 15, 2005
Happy Harry Potter Day
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, after months of anticipation, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince comes out at midnight tonight. Mine should be delivered to my parents' house by the Amazon.com fairy sometime tomorrow. I'm not a stand-in-line-at-midnight kind of person, honestly. I just don't like crowds that much, and besides, I've got better things to do on a Friday night... most of which don't involve standing in a line unless it's crowded up at the bar.
Crotchetyness aside, though, YAY! New Harry Potter Book! If you really, seriously think you're too cool or old for it, bah. I passed up the reading level required for a Harry Potter book sometime around the age of ten, and I still love 'em. And not just because I'm a teacher and intend to use them as read-aloud material next year. Still trying to figure out how I'm going to deal with all the Britishisms while reading to kids who have difficulty with standard AMERICAN English, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.
Speaking of coming to that bridge, I guess I'll be crossing it pretty soon, huh? I fly out of Minneapolis and into Anchorage on the 30th of this month. I'll probably still bum around Anchorage for a few days, even though my Dad can't visit like he had planned, because I've had so little "me" time this summer. I love my friends and it was great staying with a house full of great people and a hella-cute baby, but I'm somewhat antisocial at times and I think the alone time will do me good. So much to do before then... visit yarn store and stock up on fun yarn for the winter... drink enough beer so that I don't miss it for the first few months... I'd better get crackin', huh?
So, um, yeah. Tangent. Anyway, read Harry Potter. If you're not sure, read the first book... it's short, easy-to-read, and if you hate it, you haven't killed as much time as if you had read, say, the 5th book.
Crotchetyness aside, though, YAY! New Harry Potter Book! If you really, seriously think you're too cool or old for it, bah. I passed up the reading level required for a Harry Potter book sometime around the age of ten, and I still love 'em. And not just because I'm a teacher and intend to use them as read-aloud material next year. Still trying to figure out how I'm going to deal with all the Britishisms while reading to kids who have difficulty with standard AMERICAN English, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.
Speaking of coming to that bridge, I guess I'll be crossing it pretty soon, huh? I fly out of Minneapolis and into Anchorage on the 30th of this month. I'll probably still bum around Anchorage for a few days, even though my Dad can't visit like he had planned, because I've had so little "me" time this summer. I love my friends and it was great staying with a house full of great people and a hella-cute baby, but I'm somewhat antisocial at times and I think the alone time will do me good. So much to do before then... visit yarn store and stock up on fun yarn for the winter... drink enough beer so that I don't miss it for the first few months... I'd better get crackin', huh?
So, um, yeah. Tangent. Anyway, read Harry Potter. If you're not sure, read the first book... it's short, easy-to-read, and if you hate it, you haven't killed as much time as if you had read, say, the 5th book.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Monday, July 11, 2005
Damn Dirty Filthy Hippies
That's what we were this weekend. Seriously. Filthy.
We attended the Winnipeg Folk Festival this weekend. Since we left on Wednesday and returned today, I have a lot of stories, but since none of them are all that interesting, I'll just give you the quick version:
Wednesday: Left Minneapolis; stayed overnight in a KOA in Moorhead, MN. Just a note: If you dislike mosquitoes, DON'T stay at the KOA in Moorhead, MN. Seriously. It was nasty.
Thursday: Arrived at Birds Hill Park just northeast of Winnipeg, Manitoba. We unpacked, set up the camper, and then went to see the evening acts, but got rainstormed out.
Friday: Arrived back at the festival grounds to find them transformed into a glorious maze of mud and water and muddy water. This was the last day I wore shoes or sandals... they were totally pointless. Saw some great music, got a million skeeter bites... and...
Got a massive, very localized, sun burn. Now normally, I'm a very responsible person when it comes to sun care. I like to get a little color, but am NOT a fan of the sunburn. I have slowly built up a little tan over the summer, mostly taking baby for walks and stuff like that.
I thouht to myself, "I'll be fine sans sunscreen for one afternoon; after that I'll have to wear it." WHICH I WOULD HAVE BEEN. BUT. I forgot that I got a little burned last weekend wearing my halter-top-style swimsuit having been outside in regular tank tops. Little burn where my tank top straps had been. Wore halter top outside. Forgot that I had peeled and was now sporting fresh, white, Alaskan skin.
Blistered.
Owwwwwwwwwww. Melanoma, here I come.
Saturday: More of the same, with sunscreen. Still managed to blister a little more.
Sunday: Wore sarong over shoulders all day. Friend's family decided to leave early (the mosquitoes only got worse with all the rain and mud), so we packed up and drove to Grand Forks, ND, where we stayed in two hotel rooms and trashed their bathtubs with our filthy, hippie, mud-encrusted feet. Left the cleaning person a swell tip.
Monday: Awoke to find blister replaced by scrape-like scab. Ewwwwwwwwwwww, but significantly less painful. Drove home to the lovely Twin Cities. Relaxed.
Overall... more skeeter bites than I can count, blistering sunburn, utter exhaustion, and ankle-deep mud. Yep. Great vacation. I'm not being sarcastic. It was awesome. I'm so marking my calendar for next year! Maybe I'll stay in the "fun" campground rather than the "quiet family" campground, though. Those people looked like they were having a very, very good time.
We attended the Winnipeg Folk Festival this weekend. Since we left on Wednesday and returned today, I have a lot of stories, but since none of them are all that interesting, I'll just give you the quick version:
Wednesday: Left Minneapolis; stayed overnight in a KOA in Moorhead, MN. Just a note: If you dislike mosquitoes, DON'T stay at the KOA in Moorhead, MN. Seriously. It was nasty.
Thursday: Arrived at Birds Hill Park just northeast of Winnipeg, Manitoba. We unpacked, set up the camper, and then went to see the evening acts, but got rainstormed out.
Friday: Arrived back at the festival grounds to find them transformed into a glorious maze of mud and water and muddy water. This was the last day I wore shoes or sandals... they were totally pointless. Saw some great music, got a million skeeter bites... and...
Got a massive, very localized, sun burn. Now normally, I'm a very responsible person when it comes to sun care. I like to get a little color, but am NOT a fan of the sunburn. I have slowly built up a little tan over the summer, mostly taking baby for walks and stuff like that.
I thouht to myself, "I'll be fine sans sunscreen for one afternoon; after that I'll have to wear it." WHICH I WOULD HAVE BEEN. BUT. I forgot that I got a little burned last weekend wearing my halter-top-style swimsuit having been outside in regular tank tops. Little burn where my tank top straps had been. Wore halter top outside. Forgot that I had peeled and was now sporting fresh, white, Alaskan skin.
Blistered.
Owwwwwwwwwww. Melanoma, here I come.
Saturday: More of the same, with sunscreen. Still managed to blister a little more.
Sunday: Wore sarong over shoulders all day. Friend's family decided to leave early (the mosquitoes only got worse with all the rain and mud), so we packed up and drove to Grand Forks, ND, where we stayed in two hotel rooms and trashed their bathtubs with our filthy, hippie, mud-encrusted feet. Left the cleaning person a swell tip.
Monday: Awoke to find blister replaced by scrape-like scab. Ewwwwwwwwwwww, but significantly less painful. Drove home to the lovely Twin Cities. Relaxed.
Overall... more skeeter bites than I can count, blistering sunburn, utter exhaustion, and ankle-deep mud. Yep. Great vacation. I'm not being sarcastic. It was awesome. I'm so marking my calendar for next year! Maybe I'll stay in the "fun" campground rather than the "quiet family" campground, though. Those people looked like they were having a very, very good time.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
If there was any doubt that I'm a big effin' nerd...
Warning: If you're going to watch the Tour de France coverage tonight after work, DON'T click on this link. Spoilerage. Thou hast been warn-ed.
Team Time Trial
Think El Lance-o can take a SEVENTH Tour? There's still a LOT of race left...
First time all summer I've been tortured not having cable. Well, I've missed the Daily Show with Jon "I'll have your lovechild, just ask me" Stewart, but I'd LOVE to be able to watch the Tour coverage. There's something about people who are just SUCH incredible athletes... I can't even imagine.
Team Time Trial
Think El Lance-o can take a SEVENTH Tour? There's still a LOT of race left...
First time all summer I've been tortured not having cable. Well, I've missed the Daily Show with Jon "I'll have your lovechild, just ask me" Stewart, but I'd LOVE to be able to watch the Tour coverage. There's something about people who are just SUCH incredible athletes... I can't even imagine.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
How I Spend My Day
Here's a picture of the young lady I'm babysitting this summer. It was taken over a month ago, so she's a little older-looking now, but you get the general idea.
And yes, she's eating a leaf.
In't she a cutie?
And yes, she's eating a leaf.
In't she a cutie?
Monday, June 27, 2005
Bah
I'm kinda bored today. I want to do something, but nothing is presenting itself. It's raining pretty hard, so getting somewhere without a car presents a challenge.
This really is one of the first times I've been bored all summer, though.
This really is one of the first times I've been bored all summer, though.
Hot Shit
Pardon the profanity, please.
But it's totally worthy it. Chickscum bagged a finish at a time of 14:49:55 at Ironman Coeur d'Alene. Now she's off to Europe, the lucky byotch.
My Mini-Me is a rockstar.
But it's totally worthy it. Chickscum bagged a finish at a time of 14:49:55 at Ironman Coeur d'Alene. Now she's off to Europe, the lucky byotch.
My Mini-Me is a rockstar.
Friday, June 24, 2005
Sick, Just Sick
A reeducation camp for gay teens? Seriously. In whose mind is that a good idea?
"Now, son, I realize that you are at what is for everyone a very difficult, confusing age. What you need is to be told that everything you feel is wrong. That'll make you into a happy, repressed adult. See you in eight weeks."
"Gee, thanks, Mom and Dad. This has in no way, shape, or form affected my self-image or sense of well-being."
I'm not gay, but even I can see how this is just a really, really bad idea.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Breathe in, Breathe out...
It's hot.
My relatively well-insulated Alaskan self is not loving the 95 degree weather. I don't really care for sweating.
Bleh.
My relatively well-insulated Alaskan self is not loving the 95 degree weather. I don't really care for sweating.
Bleh.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
So
I'm slacking off, bloggo-publishing-wise. Deal. ;-)
Can't say that anyone's life is all the worse for the lack of info...
Can't say that anyone's life is all the worse for the lack of info...
Friday, June 17, 2005
Too Much, Methinks
Yesterday was the most obscenely decadent day I've had in a LONG time. Around 4, one of the housemates goes "Hey, we're going for sushi, wanna come?"
I looked at my alternatives (I was elbow-deep in dishwater at the time) and said a big fatty hell yeah.
So I went and had sushi. A lot of sushi. Spent quite a bit of money (at least by my somewhat cheap bastard definition of "a bit"). What the heck, though, I haven't had sushi yet this summer.
THEN evening came. Had a heckuva workout at the Y, then jogged home. Roomies say, "Hey, we're going out for really good Thai appetizers and frou-frou cocktails, wanna come?"
Again, hell f-ing yeah.
So yeah, went out AGAIN, and this time had a whole lot of great appetizers (I'm salivating just thinking about them) and two Mojitos. Ladies and gentlemen, these were the most amazing Mojitos ever. There was a veritable GARDEN of mint leaves in them.
Today I have a tummyache. Gee, I wonder why. There may be such a thing as too much good food.
I looked at my alternatives (I was elbow-deep in dishwater at the time) and said a big fatty hell yeah.
So I went and had sushi. A lot of sushi. Spent quite a bit of money (at least by my somewhat cheap bastard definition of "a bit"). What the heck, though, I haven't had sushi yet this summer.
THEN evening came. Had a heckuva workout at the Y, then jogged home. Roomies say, "Hey, we're going out for really good Thai appetizers and frou-frou cocktails, wanna come?"
Again, hell f-ing yeah.
So yeah, went out AGAIN, and this time had a whole lot of great appetizers (I'm salivating just thinking about them) and two Mojitos. Ladies and gentlemen, these were the most amazing Mojitos ever. There was a veritable GARDEN of mint leaves in them.
Today I have a tummyache. Gee, I wonder why. There may be such a thing as too much good food.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
I've gone and done it
I've become one of those people who talks to other people about teething and diapers and heat rash and onesies.
And I'm just the babysitter/mom's friend.
Sad.
And I'm just the babysitter/mom's friend.
Sad.
Thursday, June 09, 2005
The Limits of Tevas
I've always been of the "I can wear my Teva sandals anywhere, for any amount of time." Well, apparently, a walking marathon is well outside the limits of said Tevas.
They caused some nasty-ass blisters on the pads of my feet... which burst at mile 16. Great fun.
So, anyway, don't leave your walking/running shoes in Alaska if you're going to do a walking marathon, unless that walking marathon is IN Alaska, in which case, you're golden.
They caused some nasty-ass blisters on the pads of my feet... which burst at mile 16. Great fun.
So, anyway, don't leave your walking/running shoes in Alaska if you're going to do a walking marathon, unless that walking marathon is IN Alaska, in which case, you're golden.
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Holy Crap
Went to a friend's baby's first birthday party at Pizza Luce in downtown Minneapolis. It's amazing where you can now have kids' birthday parties now that smoking's illegal in public buildings... my feelings on the subject are complex, so I won't get into it...)
There were FIVE babies between the ages of 6 months and a year. Plus one pregnant woman. In a group of about 20 or so. For a good chunk of time, I was the only non-with-child woman there. Freeeeaaaaaky maaaaan. Not bad, necessarily, but freaky. Soon another woman showed up and I had someone to not talk about diapers to. Not that I don't spend a lot of time thinking about Babysitting Baby's diaper, but since she's not mine, I don't feel the need to worry about her diaperswhen I'm not actually in the act of changing them.
Well, anyway, it was fun. Had a few bears (Bell's Oberon, their current Seasonal Beer... not too shabby, but I'm depressed that companies have comparatively light "Seasonal Beers," ,but alas...), chatted with some old friends, met some new people, blah blah blah...
And on a totally separate note... Is there a 12-step program for cutting off the Cinnamon Altoids habit? They are my personal crack cocaine. Seriously, I can't stop. I just got my current tin today and I'm closer to being empty then I'd like to admit.
There were FIVE babies between the ages of 6 months and a year. Plus one pregnant woman. In a group of about 20 or so. For a good chunk of time, I was the only non-with-child woman there. Freeeeaaaaaky maaaaan. Not bad, necessarily, but freaky. Soon another woman showed up and I had someone to not talk about diapers to. Not that I don't spend a lot of time thinking about Babysitting Baby's diaper, but since she's not mine, I don't feel the need to worry about her diaperswhen I'm not actually in the act of changing them.
Well, anyway, it was fun. Had a few bears (Bell's Oberon, their current Seasonal Beer... not too shabby, but I'm depressed that companies have comparatively light "Seasonal Beers," ,but alas...), chatted with some old friends, met some new people, blah blah blah...
And on a totally separate note... Is there a 12-step program for cutting off the Cinnamon Altoids habit? They are my personal crack cocaine. Seriously, I can't stop. I just got my current tin today and I'm closer to being empty then I'd like to admit.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Just a warning
I'm not going to post much this summer, I don't think... at least not as prolifically as I did during the school year. I know, you're probably saying THANK GOD. THAT CHICK NEVER SHUTS THE *$&# UP.
Few reasons for my anticipated slowdown in production...
1. Babysitting for a 6 month-old is a little time-consuming. She's napping now, but was NOT happy when Mom wasn't around and she had to drink from a bottle, which is NOT her most favoritest thing in the world. We even wrote a little song titled "Bottles Suck, Boobies Rule," but it didn't seem to soothe her all that much. Go fig.
2. When not babysitting, I'll likely often be drinking and hanging out with friends, which does not need to be chronicled for future generations.
Few reasons for my anticipated slowdown in production...
1. Babysitting for a 6 month-old is a little time-consuming. She's napping now, but was NOT happy when Mom wasn't around and she had to drink from a bottle, which is NOT her most favoritest thing in the world. We even wrote a little song titled "Bottles Suck, Boobies Rule," but it didn't seem to soothe her all that much. Go fig.
2. When not babysitting, I'll likely often be drinking and hanging out with friends, which does not need to be chronicled for future generations.
Thursday, May 26, 2005
So... Two Days In...
Yeah. There has been beer on multiple occasions, but thus far no drunkenness. There has also been one gin and tonic and more meals eaten out than the past ten months put together. All the options are almost too much. I found myself staring at restaurant menus and wanting one of everything. Mostly things with bacon. We never get bacon in the village. I never really had a big love for bacon, but apparently, I missed it.
I'll admit it, I miss village life in some ways. There is just SO MUCH going on, especially in the Twin Cities. I had to drive a rental car away from the MSP airport this afternoon and it was just too much visual stimulus, too fast. Driving at the airport flustered me back when my driving reflexes were honed to a citified level of competence, just think how bad it was this afternoon. I was scared-old-lady-white-knuckling it on the steering wheel. I seemed to get back into the driving groove after a few minutes, though.
I'll miss village life, but it's going to be a great summer. I'm babysitting for a friend's kid three days a week, and in exchange get to live in her house in Minneapolis, which is right where I want to be.
Random: I just looked up at the ceiling in the room I grew up in (well... from 5th grade on...), and the glow-in-the-dark stickers that I put on the light fixture are still there, as is the little fuzzy dude (remember those? little puffball with feet and googly eyes?) I stuck up there. Suppose those'll have to go if my parents ever move...
I'll admit it, I miss village life in some ways. There is just SO MUCH going on, especially in the Twin Cities. I had to drive a rental car away from the MSP airport this afternoon and it was just too much visual stimulus, too fast. Driving at the airport flustered me back when my driving reflexes were honed to a citified level of competence, just think how bad it was this afternoon. I was scared-old-lady-white-knuckling it on the steering wheel. I seemed to get back into the driving groove after a few minutes, though.
I'll miss village life, but it's going to be a great summer. I'm babysitting for a friend's kid three days a week, and in exchange get to live in her house in Minneapolis, which is right where I want to be.
Random: I just looked up at the ceiling in the room I grew up in (well... from 5th grade on...), and the glow-in-the-dark stickers that I put on the light fixture are still there, as is the little fuzzy dude (remember those? little puffball with feet and googly eyes?) I stuck up there. Suppose those'll have to go if my parents ever move...
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Briefly and without grammar
Arrived safely and without traumatic incident in MN. All is good. Moderate amounts of beer have been consumed at various Minneapolis establishments. Further update to follow. Time to sleep.
*Ahem*
Happy Birthday to me
Happy Birthday to me
Happy Birthday, dear Sara
Happy Birthday to me.
I would like to congratulate Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines for managing to get me all the way from Bethel to Minneapolis without once offering me a real meal. Not that airline food is any good, but sheesh.
Happy Birthday to me
Happy Birthday, dear Sara
Happy Birthday to me.
I would like to congratulate Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines for managing to get me all the way from Bethel to Minneapolis without once offering me a real meal. Not that airline food is any good, but sheesh.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Food, Mostly
Just made my last flight reservation for tomorrow (the little hop between the village and the hub city, Bethel). Other Teacher #2 and I will be flying out at 12:30, which will give me three hours, weather permitting, to go to the bead store (they have a great selection I've yet to find equalled Downstates) and grab some food for the journey.
Speaking of food, I attended a birthday feast for one of our school aide's daughters. There I had what will probably be my last taste of akutaq (eskimo ice cream), walrus, seal, caribou, and dried smoked salmon strips where you have to peel them off the skin. Diet food it ain't, but I've really developed a taste for it... even the "weird" stuff that I only tried for the sheer adventure of it.
Seal meat is surprisingly "meaty" (as opposed to fatty) and not at all what I would have expected, at least when cooked up in a pan. Walrus, on the other hand, is unlike anything I've ever eaten. It's so... smooth. So many dense (and probably horrifically fatty, but who's countin?) calories... I ate a little around noon yesterday and wasn't hungry until well after 7. Caribou is a lot like venison. Dried smoked salmon strips are the beef jerkey of the Eskimo subarctic. No wait, better. Jerky is a pain to eat because it's so tough, but dried smoked salmon strips (or simply "strips" as they're known in village English) is fun. Grab a hold of the meat with your teeth and hold on to the skin. Now peel. It takes a certain flair... I'm now to the point where I get everything off but the skin. Dogs LOVE the skin for a treat, but only if they're outside dogs, because salmon skin dog farts are the epitome of disgusting.
Christ, I have been an obnoxiously prolific blogger over the past week. If anyone actually reads all this, kudos to you, but I certainly don't expect everybody to do so. For me, it's been a sort of personal housecleaning of my thoughts... hence the stream-of-consciousness style writing.
This should be my last post for a few days. I fly out tomorrow, weather permitting, at 12:30-ish. I'll turn 26, assuming the flight boards on time, at 12:07am... 48 minutes before my flight out of Anchorage is set to depart. I'll make it to the Twin Freakin Cities at 11:45 Tuesday morning, Central Time. While it looks like I'll be spending 23 hours in transit, if time zone changes are taken into account, it's only 20. ONLY.
Speaking of food, I attended a birthday feast for one of our school aide's daughters. There I had what will probably be my last taste of akutaq (eskimo ice cream), walrus, seal, caribou, and dried smoked salmon strips where you have to peel them off the skin. Diet food it ain't, but I've really developed a taste for it... even the "weird" stuff that I only tried for the sheer adventure of it.
Seal meat is surprisingly "meaty" (as opposed to fatty) and not at all what I would have expected, at least when cooked up in a pan. Walrus, on the other hand, is unlike anything I've ever eaten. It's so... smooth. So many dense (and probably horrifically fatty, but who's countin?) calories... I ate a little around noon yesterday and wasn't hungry until well after 7. Caribou is a lot like venison. Dried smoked salmon strips are the beef jerkey of the Eskimo subarctic. No wait, better. Jerky is a pain to eat because it's so tough, but dried smoked salmon strips (or simply "strips" as they're known in village English) is fun. Grab a hold of the meat with your teeth and hold on to the skin. Now peel. It takes a certain flair... I'm now to the point where I get everything off but the skin. Dogs LOVE the skin for a treat, but only if they're outside dogs, because salmon skin dog farts are the epitome of disgusting.
Christ, I have been an obnoxiously prolific blogger over the past week. If anyone actually reads all this, kudos to you, but I certainly don't expect everybody to do so. For me, it's been a sort of personal housecleaning of my thoughts... hence the stream-of-consciousness style writing.
This should be my last post for a few days. I fly out tomorrow, weather permitting, at 12:30-ish. I'll turn 26, assuming the flight boards on time, at 12:07am... 48 minutes before my flight out of Anchorage is set to depart. I'll make it to the Twin Freakin Cities at 11:45 Tuesday morning, Central Time. While it looks like I'll be spending 23 hours in transit, if time zone changes are taken into account, it's only 20. ONLY.
Me out on the ice
Just 'cuz I can finally easily and successfully post pictures, and I like this one, I will make you look at it! I didn't take it, but you can see me out on the ice (the ice being Kuskokwim Bay of the Bering Sea). Roomie, Other Teacher #1, Social Worker (who visits once a week or every other week as he's social worker for several villages) and I took a trip out to the beach back in... March? I don't quite remember. I could easily look up the date on the pic but that would be mucho effort.
I think the picture illustrates the vast weirdness of the beach in winter. There were four of us out there, not a mile from the village, but with the wind whipping and the oddness of the terrain (ice cracked and pushed and pulled and whatnot into odd configurations by the tides), you could just wander away and think you were the only person on the face of the planet. I did just that, and apparently got my picture taken in the process.
I think the picture illustrates the vast weirdness of the beach in winter. There were four of us out there, not a mile from the village, but with the wind whipping and the oddness of the terrain (ice cracked and pushed and pulled and whatnot into odd configurations by the tides), you could just wander away and think you were the only person on the face of the planet. I did just that, and apparently got my picture taken in the process.
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Bah
How does packing ALWAYS sneak up on me? Like I haven't been counting the days to summer vacation!
*dutifully but crabbily goes back to laundry and packing and cleaning...*
*dutifully but crabbily goes back to laundry and packing and cleaning...*
'Tis the Way it Goes
I'm only now getting to the point where I feel really comfortable with village life. Don't get me wrong... I've been happy all year, with a few normal day-to-day exceptions. I've been happier, really, than I've probably ever been. Having a job I can call a career and a house I can call a home for as long as I want to call it such have given me a sense of permanence I haven't experienced since... wow, probably since high school.
My seven years of pathological impermanence went as follows: Four years of college - different dorm or apartment each year. The year after college, for various reasons that don't need elaborating at this point, I did not have my shit together in the least. Found a job I didn't have much passion for (followed by a job that can only be described as hell on Earth) and an apartment in my hometown. Became pretty miserable after a year, mostly because of hell-job and the fact that none of my friends lived in said hometown. Found a wonderful job in the Twin Cities, took it, moved back. Unfortunately, it was an AmeriCorps job, and those are by definition, to be held for a maximum of two one-year stints. They're also, by definition, below-poverty-level-paying. After that year, I entered the Masters in Education program at the University of Minnesota. Another new house, another occupation (student again).
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why I'm ecstatic that I'm staying where I am. Aside from what I need to survive for the summer, I DON'T HAVE TO MOVE MY CRAP! I don't have to get used to a new job next year. I don't have to deal with the stress of change. Woo-freakin-hoo!
Yeah, we'll be getting a lot of new teachers next year. Happens every couple years out here in the bush... there's a big teacher turnover. As a result, next year might be stressful. However, I'm going to already know 90% of the students I'll be working with. The vast majority of the new kindergarteners have at least one brother or sister that I already know, if not teach. One year being the same as the last (in some ways) is not necessarily a bad thing.
Yes, definitely less stress this way.
My seven years of pathological impermanence went as follows: Four years of college - different dorm or apartment each year. The year after college, for various reasons that don't need elaborating at this point, I did not have my shit together in the least. Found a job I didn't have much passion for (followed by a job that can only be described as hell on Earth) and an apartment in my hometown. Became pretty miserable after a year, mostly because of hell-job and the fact that none of my friends lived in said hometown. Found a wonderful job in the Twin Cities, took it, moved back. Unfortunately, it was an AmeriCorps job, and those are by definition, to be held for a maximum of two one-year stints. They're also, by definition, below-poverty-level-paying. After that year, I entered the Masters in Education program at the University of Minnesota. Another new house, another occupation (student again).
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why I'm ecstatic that I'm staying where I am. Aside from what I need to survive for the summer, I DON'T HAVE TO MOVE MY CRAP! I don't have to get used to a new job next year. I don't have to deal with the stress of change. Woo-freakin-hoo!
Yeah, we'll be getting a lot of new teachers next year. Happens every couple years out here in the bush... there's a big teacher turnover. As a result, next year might be stressful. However, I'm going to already know 90% of the students I'll be working with. The vast majority of the new kindergarteners have at least one brother or sister that I already know, if not teach. One year being the same as the last (in some ways) is not necessarily a bad thing.
Yes, definitely less stress this way.
Friday, May 20, 2005
For the record
I have two very awesome parents. Awesome in the way that normal, regular people can be amazing parents. Anyway, they did a great job raising us and never wavered in their support. I owe them more than is humanly possible to repay (and I'm not just talking about money).
Side note: Aren't they cute?
And did I just refer to someone in my family as "normal" and "regular?" Wow.
Side note: Aren't they cute?
And did I just refer to someone in my family as "normal" and "regular?" Wow.
Thursday, May 19, 2005
Meh
As I may or may not have remembered or felt like posting, I met secret weight goal #1 about a month ago. Since then I have neither lost nor gained any weight... which I guess is neither good nor bad news.
I'd love to work out, I really would. As little talent as I have for it, I came to enjoy running quite a bit a few years back. And I could totally run here. Unlike other villages in the Y-K Delta, we've got a pretty extensive system of roads. Most other communities just have boardwalks. It's a trade-off, though, because those other (smaller) communities, for the most part, have flush toilets in their homes, an unimaginable luxury for all but a few lucky souls here.
But this just isn't a running kind of place. Well, that's not entirely true. I coached cross country last fall (Wow, remember that? My first or second blog entry? So long ago...), and the kids on the team loved running. They even wanted to continue holding practices after all the meets were over and done with. So people here like to run. However, when I suggested that they run on their own or in small groups, they looked at me like I was crazy. "So embarrassing," they said.
I've gone out jogging a few times, but it's such an oddity that it generally attracts so many kids that I'm forced to either be rude and ignore them (which I don't want to do because they're good kids, for the most part), or stop and talk. That someone would just go out for a run for the hell of it is something that I have to take the time to explain. Add that to my generally lazy personality and you've got a recipe for tub-o-lard.
Soon I'll be back in the Lower 48, where running doesn't attract a small throng of pint-sized curiosity seekers. Then I'll have to either get my act together or find a new excuse.
Hopefully I'll get my act together. I DID register for a sprint tri in July, and given my lack of natural athletic ability, I should probably put in at least a few miles beforehand.
I'd love to work out, I really would. As little talent as I have for it, I came to enjoy running quite a bit a few years back. And I could totally run here. Unlike other villages in the Y-K Delta, we've got a pretty extensive system of roads. Most other communities just have boardwalks. It's a trade-off, though, because those other (smaller) communities, for the most part, have flush toilets in their homes, an unimaginable luxury for all but a few lucky souls here.
But this just isn't a running kind of place. Well, that's not entirely true. I coached cross country last fall (Wow, remember that? My first or second blog entry? So long ago...), and the kids on the team loved running. They even wanted to continue holding practices after all the meets were over and done with. So people here like to run. However, when I suggested that they run on their own or in small groups, they looked at me like I was crazy. "So embarrassing," they said.
I've gone out jogging a few times, but it's such an oddity that it generally attracts so many kids that I'm forced to either be rude and ignore them (which I don't want to do because they're good kids, for the most part), or stop and talk. That someone would just go out for a run for the hell of it is something that I have to take the time to explain. Add that to my generally lazy personality and you've got a recipe for tub-o-lard.
Soon I'll be back in the Lower 48, where running doesn't attract a small throng of pint-sized curiosity seekers. Then I'll have to either get my act together or find a new excuse.
Hopefully I'll get my act together. I DID register for a sprint tri in July, and given my lack of natural athletic ability, I should probably put in at least a few miles beforehand.
Anticlimactic
Just taught my last class of the year. Actually, not "taught" as much as "damage-controlled." The kids are pretty wound up.
*Dances around the empty classroom*
*Shakes her groove thang*
*Remembers all the filing she has to do tomorrow and weeps for a brief moment*
*Resumes groove thang shaking*
*Dances around the empty classroom*
*Shakes her groove thang*
*Remembers all the filing she has to do tomorrow and weeps for a brief moment*
*Resumes groove thang shaking*
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
This Does Not Bode Well
In honor of the new Star Wars movie opening tonight (which Roomie will get to see, since she has to go to Anchorage for a meeting; I have to wait until I get back Downstates), I thought I'd take one of those silly online quizzes to see who I am. Turns out...
Take the quiz: "What Star Wars Character Are You?"
Anakin Skywalker
Watch out for your temper...it could get you into trouble the way it did Anakin. You have enormous potential to be a great Jedi, but stress has made the dark side seem that much more inviting...
Great. Destined for the Dark Side, it would seem. Oh well, at least I get to die an honorable death saving my son and the future of the universe.
I'm cautiously hopeful when it comes to this last Star Wars movie. The first two prequels sucked donkey wang, but hey, maybe they'll strike cinematic gold this time. I've heard good things, I guess. Kevin Smith (of Clerks fame) said good things, and I like his movies, so maybe, just maybe...
Take the quiz: "What Star Wars Character Are You?"
Anakin Skywalker
Watch out for your temper...it could get you into trouble the way it did Anakin. You have enormous potential to be a great Jedi, but stress has made the dark side seem that much more inviting...
Great. Destined for the Dark Side, it would seem. Oh well, at least I get to die an honorable death saving my son and the future of the universe.
I'm cautiously hopeful when it comes to this last Star Wars movie. The first two prequels sucked donkey wang, but hey, maybe they'll strike cinematic gold this time. I've heard good things, I guess. Kevin Smith (of Clerks fame) said good things, and I like his movies, so maybe, just maybe...
Monday, May 16, 2005
Somewhere Inside
Deep inside the heart of every instructor, even the most honey-voiced sweetheart of a pushover teacher, likes the Evil Psycho Bitch Teacher. Most of us are disciplined enough that our students rarely, if ever, have to meet Evil Psycho Bitch Teacher. We can be Evil Teacher, we can be Psycho Teacher, or even Bitch Teacher, but we keep Evil Psycho Bitch Teacher hidden deep within the caverns of our souls. I occasionally catch a glimpse of the Evil Psycho Bitches (and men can be bitches, too, just as frequently as women) I could be, and that glimpse is generally frightening enough to whip me back into shape.
Today, the Evil Psycho Bitch Teacher catalyst was... wait for it... KIDDIE PROM.
So all students who weren't old enough to go to prom (5th grade and under... although we have some pretty darn old 5th graders) get to dance and eat cookies and drink Kool-Aid in the gym for an hour. So you have cute little innocent (heh heh heh) kindergarteners and 13 (!) year-old 5th graders and everything in between, all sharing a space. The kindergarteners want to jump and dance and hit balloons around. The 13 year-olds are generally *ahem* behaviorally and academically challenged, and want to (a) sneak out the back door, (b) whine that I'm not playing rap music, or (c) push the little kids around.
Somehow I ended up dealing with the worst. Then the sound system went all wonky. Then kids were climbing on the stage. I'm not sure why, but today it was just too much for me.
Evil Psycho Bitch Teacher made a brief, if spectacular, appearance. Luckily, I was able to contain her under a merely stressed-out veneer until I was alone in the closet of a room containing the stereo equipment. Well, almost contain it. One student who I caught trying to sneak out the back door probably didn't deserve as harsh a reprimand as I gave her, but then again, she WAS trying to sneak out of school, so I don't feel too bad.
Anyway, it's over. Next year, if I have my way, there will be no Kiddie Prom. If they want to have some kind of party, fine, but I'm not in charge. Kindergarteners and 13 year-olds do NOT enjoy the same things. Throwing them in a gym and putting on music is just silly. Who's dumbass idea WAS this?
*takes deep, cleansing breaths*
*turns off Evil Psycho Bitch mode*
Today, the Evil Psycho Bitch Teacher catalyst was... wait for it... KIDDIE PROM.
So all students who weren't old enough to go to prom (5th grade and under... although we have some pretty darn old 5th graders) get to dance and eat cookies and drink Kool-Aid in the gym for an hour. So you have cute little innocent (heh heh heh) kindergarteners and 13 (!) year-old 5th graders and everything in between, all sharing a space. The kindergarteners want to jump and dance and hit balloons around. The 13 year-olds are generally *ahem* behaviorally and academically challenged, and want to (a) sneak out the back door, (b) whine that I'm not playing rap music, or (c) push the little kids around.
Somehow I ended up dealing with the worst. Then the sound system went all wonky. Then kids were climbing on the stage. I'm not sure why, but today it was just too much for me.
Evil Psycho Bitch Teacher made a brief, if spectacular, appearance. Luckily, I was able to contain her under a merely stressed-out veneer until I was alone in the closet of a room containing the stereo equipment. Well, almost contain it. One student who I caught trying to sneak out the back door probably didn't deserve as harsh a reprimand as I gave her, but then again, she WAS trying to sneak out of school, so I don't feel too bad.
Anyway, it's over. Next year, if I have my way, there will be no Kiddie Prom. If they want to have some kind of party, fine, but I'm not in charge. Kindergarteners and 13 year-olds do NOT enjoy the same things. Throwing them in a gym and putting on music is just silly. Who's dumbass idea WAS this?
*takes deep, cleansing breaths*
*turns off Evil Psycho Bitch mode*
Friday, May 13, 2005
Prom, Middle-of-Nowhere Style
Combine your senior prom with your 6th grade middle school dance, and you've got our prom. All students, 6th grade and up, are able to attend. 18 year-old girls in prom dresses they mail ordered and pre-pubescent 6th grade boys, all mingling against a backdrop of the usual bad dance music and an incessant strobe light that is going to drive me to seizure.
Wow, what a fun night.
A beer would really make the night go a lot better. I just keep repeating "10 days to beer, 10 days to beer, 10 days to beer..."
Oh, great. They're playing "Stacy's Mom has got it Going On." Please may I pickaxe out my eardrums? I bet I'd be good at sign language.
Wow, what a fun night.
A beer would really make the night go a lot better. I just keep repeating "10 days to beer, 10 days to beer, 10 days to beer..."
Oh, great. They're playing "Stacy's Mom has got it Going On." Please may I pickaxe out my eardrums? I bet I'd be good at sign language.
Graduation
Our school held its graduation this afternoon for our two high school graduates as well as our kindergarteners. Kindergarteners in caps and gowns are hella-cute.
Sadly, it doesn't look like we'll have a graduation next year. None of our juniors will likely be ready.
*sigh*
Our junior high looks promising, though... so in a few years, it might be a different story.
Sadly, it doesn't look like we'll have a graduation next year. None of our juniors will likely be ready.
*sigh*
Our junior high looks promising, though... so in a few years, it might be a different story.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
By the Numbers
In 12 days, I will be taking up residence for the summer in a house with TWO flush toilets. The sheer luxuriousness of it boggles the mind. Not just one, but two. Wild.
In 12 days, I will also turn 26.
In 12 days, I will also be allowed to drink beer and other alcoholic beverages again. Actually, in 11 days, because I will get to Anchorage on the 23rd and Alcohol is sure as hell legal there. There's a booth calling me at the Anchorage Airport Chili's Too. For a crappy chain restaurant in an airport, they have a decent beer selection.
In 11 days, I will bid the village goodbye for the summer. But I'll be back. I'm that craz... uh... dedicated. Like I said to my mentor yesterday, "I need this year to be over so next year can start." So goes the cycle of the teacher.
In 8 days I will be done with work obligations for the summer.
In 7 days, the students will be done for the summer. Well, they'll be physically done. Mentally, they've been done for a week already.
In 1 day, our seniors will graduate. A class of two. So it goes up here... They probably started out with 20 or so back in kindergarten...
4 hours until today is over with and I can enjoy the 61 degree weather.
In 12 days, I will also turn 26.
In 12 days, I will also be allowed to drink beer and other alcoholic beverages again. Actually, in 11 days, because I will get to Anchorage on the 23rd and Alcohol is sure as hell legal there. There's a booth calling me at the Anchorage Airport Chili's Too. For a crappy chain restaurant in an airport, they have a decent beer selection.
In 11 days, I will bid the village goodbye for the summer. But I'll be back. I'm that craz... uh... dedicated. Like I said to my mentor yesterday, "I need this year to be over so next year can start." So goes the cycle of the teacher.
In 8 days I will be done with work obligations for the summer.
In 7 days, the students will be done for the summer. Well, they'll be physically done. Mentally, they've been done for a week already.
In 1 day, our seniors will graduate. A class of two. So it goes up here... They probably started out with 20 or so back in kindergarten...
4 hours until today is over with and I can enjoy the 61 degree weather.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Reflection
The state of Alaska has a wonderful (and that's saying a lot when you're talking about state programs) new teacher mentoring program. Basically, they pay veteran or retired teachers to be "mentors" to a whole bunch of first- and second-year teachers. In a lot of other places, you're assigned a teacher mentor who's also currently teaching. This means that it's up to both the new and veteran teacher to (a) give a rat's ass about a mentoring program, and (b) have and set aside the time to meet. In hiring people to STRICTLY mentor, Alaska's facing up to the reality of teaching: if it doesn't affect tomorrow's lesson, it can wait until there is no tomorrow's lesson to worry about.
My mentor is mentor to myself, three other young teachers in my school, plus a bunch of other teachers in other villages. She has taught in rural Alaska for years, and knows her shit. She's not a boss, she's not a student teaching supervisor. She knows that some lessons, on some days, are just not going to be awesome because you just can't take the time to analyze all lessons from every angle. The first day the mercury rises above 60 in the village, you're NOT going to get much done after lunch, unless you (a) are both a sadist and a masochist, loving both to torture and be tortured, or (b) do what a bunch of classroom teachers did today and decided that a science lesson on local birds or plants involving a walk to the river was on the schedule. Sometimes good enough really is good enough. Strive for the best, of course. Just don't get too down on yourself when you acknowledge that a nature walk is going to be much more productive than a classroom lesson on plant parts. At least you acknowledged it.
Anyway, yeah, mentors. Ours, awesome. From what I've heard from teachers with different mentors, theirs are also awesome. They basically gives us what we need. When I was in the middle of my hellish month of language testing, she made photocopies and fetched students. She's sorted books for people. She's taught lessons so we could observe other teachers. So much of my learning this year has come, directly or indirectly, from her.
See? Government programs CAN be productive!
My mentor is mentor to myself, three other young teachers in my school, plus a bunch of other teachers in other villages. She has taught in rural Alaska for years, and knows her shit. She's not a boss, she's not a student teaching supervisor. She knows that some lessons, on some days, are just not going to be awesome because you just can't take the time to analyze all lessons from every angle. The first day the mercury rises above 60 in the village, you're NOT going to get much done after lunch, unless you (a) are both a sadist and a masochist, loving both to torture and be tortured, or (b) do what a bunch of classroom teachers did today and decided that a science lesson on local birds or plants involving a walk to the river was on the schedule. Sometimes good enough really is good enough. Strive for the best, of course. Just don't get too down on yourself when you acknowledge that a nature walk is going to be much more productive than a classroom lesson on plant parts. At least you acknowledged it.
Anyway, yeah, mentors. Ours, awesome. From what I've heard from teachers with different mentors, theirs are also awesome. They basically gives us what we need. When I was in the middle of my hellish month of language testing, she made photocopies and fetched students. She's sorted books for people. She's taught lessons so we could observe other teachers. So much of my learning this year has come, directly or indirectly, from her.
See? Government programs CAN be productive!
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
I Really Hate to Brag
... But I only have eight more days of school left. Well, only a half a day left today. And Friday is a half day. Plus next week is a total wash, academically.
I feel a little bad that I'm so excited about the end of school. I love my job. My students are, for the most part, awesome. But damn if I'm not at least as hyper and spacey as my students are.
One of the second graders shot his first goose last week. The "first catch" is a big thing in traditional Yup'ik culture, and it's still celebrated to a certain extent. He certainly had cause to be excited. Students come in every day not wanting to talk about nouns and verbs and vowels and consonants. They want to talk about ducks and geese and cranes and swans and muskrats whatever else they shot the night before. As far as I can tell, the whole of summer is a "getting ready" season, where you hunt, fish, and gather plants. Even now, with our store and its neatly packaged Tyson chicken breasts, people manage to do an extraordinary amount of self-feeding. My students may be poor, but during hunting season, I'd wager they eat better than kids anywhere else.
I feel a little bad that I'm so excited about the end of school. I love my job. My students are, for the most part, awesome. But damn if I'm not at least as hyper and spacey as my students are.
One of the second graders shot his first goose last week. The "first catch" is a big thing in traditional Yup'ik culture, and it's still celebrated to a certain extent. He certainly had cause to be excited. Students come in every day not wanting to talk about nouns and verbs and vowels and consonants. They want to talk about ducks and geese and cranes and swans and muskrats whatever else they shot the night before. As far as I can tell, the whole of summer is a "getting ready" season, where you hunt, fish, and gather plants. Even now, with our store and its neatly packaged Tyson chicken breasts, people manage to do an extraordinary amount of self-feeding. My students may be poor, but during hunting season, I'd wager they eat better than kids anywhere else.
Saturday, May 07, 2005
What is Your Favorite Tetris Block Shape?
I'm a big fan of the long, skinny one... but I also have a certain affinity for the L and backwards-L.
I have decided that Tetris is the pinnacle of human technology. Think about it. It serves no purpose. It is 100% useless, but posesses a simple genius that keeps us (and by us, I mean me) entertained for long periods of time. It's been around for how many years, and it hasn't lost its entertainment value.
That I can waste hours dropping blocks on a little screen is kinda sad. That I flinch non-voluntarily when I drop a piece and it's not where I thought it would be is even more so.
Its genius lies in its simplicity. There's no "secret" to it. With so many video games, once you beat it, the challenge is over. You've beaten it, you know its secrets, the romance goes out of the relationship, so to speak. There's no "beating" Tetris, I don't think. You play until you lose. Then you play again, and maybe do a little better. You can always do a little better. Like playng Scrabble, you can learn little mental tricks and hone your technique, but your first game is just as challenging as your last.
I have decided that Tetris is the pinnacle of human technology. Think about it. It serves no purpose. It is 100% useless, but posesses a simple genius that keeps us (and by us, I mean me) entertained for long periods of time. It's been around for how many years, and it hasn't lost its entertainment value.
That I can waste hours dropping blocks on a little screen is kinda sad. That I flinch non-voluntarily when I drop a piece and it's not where I thought it would be is even more so.
Its genius lies in its simplicity. There's no "secret" to it. With so many video games, once you beat it, the challenge is over. You've beaten it, you know its secrets, the romance goes out of the relationship, so to speak. There's no "beating" Tetris, I don't think. You play until you lose. Then you play again, and maybe do a little better. You can always do a little better. Like playng Scrabble, you can learn little mental tricks and hone your technique, but your first game is just as challenging as your last.
Friday, May 06, 2005
Bow Before my Old-Maidiness
I found out last night that my last remaining unmarried (close, female) friend from high school is getting hitched on Monday. None of us had heard from her in a while, so it came as a bit of a suock. However that means that I am officially the last single woman from that group (who I really don't see that often, but still...).
I outlasted 'em all! I am the old maid! What do I win? I'm hoping for the trip to Tahiti or a new car.
You know, a hundred years ago, I really would be an old maid. Nowdays I'm just another normal 25 year-old. Is it our lengthened lifespans that are pushing the marraige age back? The fact that women are more educated, more independent, and less likely to need to get married? The fact that we just don't find lifetime monogamy interesting? Is this a positive or negative trend. I tend to think it's positive, but then again, I'm not married and have never felt a desire to be married to any specific person. I do know a few women who just want to "settle down and get married," but most of the people I know are not looking to just get married. They want to marry the right person, not just marry.
I really think we're "settling" less. Getting married isn't a goal, it's (hopefully) a usually-pleasant result of a good relationship. I really think that this attitude, especially as it relates to the females of the species, is a result of our increased social and financial independence. Single women are able to take care of themselves better and in greater numbers than ever before. We have the luxury of waiting until we WANT to be married... be that at age 20 or age 40. We are not socially ostracized or pitied, at least not by most. Yeah, there's still that "single woman home alone with her cats" myth, but most people recognize it for what it is... a mostly-false myth.
Most of my married friends are happy. So are most of my unmarried friends. My married friends who are happy in their marriage were happy before they got married, and my unhappy married friends were unhappy before they got married. In these modern times, we have more choices than ever... and that makes the results 100% our responsibility. Having not been (and keep in mind I'm talking about the U.S. here; this is by no means global) forced, goaded, or out-of-options-ed into marraige, we succeed and/or fail on our own. If a marriage totally sucks, the couple can CHOOSE to stick it out or they can CHOOSE to end it. We're not forced (at least not to as great an extent as in previous generations) to stick it out for social and financial reasons. Is our divorce rate higher than it was before we had these choices? HELL YES. But I'd bet that there are more happy people (single, divorced, and married) than there were before those choices were available, too.
I outlasted 'em all! I am the old maid! What do I win? I'm hoping for the trip to Tahiti or a new car.
You know, a hundred years ago, I really would be an old maid. Nowdays I'm just another normal 25 year-old. Is it our lengthened lifespans that are pushing the marraige age back? The fact that women are more educated, more independent, and less likely to need to get married? The fact that we just don't find lifetime monogamy interesting? Is this a positive or negative trend. I tend to think it's positive, but then again, I'm not married and have never felt a desire to be married to any specific person. I do know a few women who just want to "settle down and get married," but most of the people I know are not looking to just get married. They want to marry the right person, not just marry.
I really think we're "settling" less. Getting married isn't a goal, it's (hopefully) a usually-pleasant result of a good relationship. I really think that this attitude, especially as it relates to the females of the species, is a result of our increased social and financial independence. Single women are able to take care of themselves better and in greater numbers than ever before. We have the luxury of waiting until we WANT to be married... be that at age 20 or age 40. We are not socially ostracized or pitied, at least not by most. Yeah, there's still that "single woman home alone with her cats" myth, but most people recognize it for what it is... a mostly-false myth.
Most of my married friends are happy. So are most of my unmarried friends. My married friends who are happy in their marriage were happy before they got married, and my unhappy married friends were unhappy before they got married. In these modern times, we have more choices than ever... and that makes the results 100% our responsibility. Having not been (and keep in mind I'm talking about the U.S. here; this is by no means global) forced, goaded, or out-of-options-ed into marraige, we succeed and/or fail on our own. If a marriage totally sucks, the couple can CHOOSE to stick it out or they can CHOOSE to end it. We're not forced (at least not to as great an extent as in previous generations) to stick it out for social and financial reasons. Is our divorce rate higher than it was before we had these choices? HELL YES. But I'd bet that there are more happy people (single, divorced, and married) than there were before those choices were available, too.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Connections
I'm trying my best to make social connections outside of the other "young lady teachers" in teacher housing... because all of them will be gone next year. Our school is experiencing the turnover that is cyclically a reality in these parts. We're losing the vast majority of our elementary teachers (although two are just taking a year off to work on their masters) and one high school teacher. Next year should be... interesting.
Anyway, I don't want to return next year and have to start all over, so I'm trying to branch out and make at least casual social relationships with other people. Last night, one of the teacher aides and I walked to the beach. Walking has become the cool thing for staff to do, since this nurse came from Bethel to do a diabetes presentation and gave us the opportunity to get free pedometers and participate in a "Walk the Iditarod" (metaphorically, of course) program. It was good to not only hang out with someone new, but with someone who has lived in the village all her life. We have a surprising amount in common, all things considered.
I can't say I'm looking forward to a whole new batch of teachers coming in next year, but even if it completely sucks, at least I'll get to meet and get to know new people, which is always fun.
Anyway, I don't want to return next year and have to start all over, so I'm trying to branch out and make at least casual social relationships with other people. Last night, one of the teacher aides and I walked to the beach. Walking has become the cool thing for staff to do, since this nurse came from Bethel to do a diabetes presentation and gave us the opportunity to get free pedometers and participate in a "Walk the Iditarod" (metaphorically, of course) program. It was good to not only hang out with someone new, but with someone who has lived in the village all her life. We have a surprising amount in common, all things considered.
I can't say I'm looking forward to a whole new batch of teachers coming in next year, but even if it completely sucks, at least I'll get to meet and get to know new people, which is always fun.
Not Shocking
Your Linguistic Profile: |
70% General American English |
15% Upper Midwestern |
15% Yankee |
0% Dixie |
0% Midwestern |
Thursday, April 28, 2005
"There's Nary an Animal Alive that can Outrun a Greased Scotsman"
Random Groundskeeper Willie quote for a title because I'm feeling a little ADHD and off the wall this evening. I guess it beats the bitchy-teacher-from-hell mood I was in this afternoon. My thoughts are as follows:
1. Jon Stewart will be mine. I realize that he his happily married with a child and is too old for me, but nonetheless, he shall be mine. My love for him grows exponentially by the day... Not that I'm a stalker or anything. *looks around furtively*
2. I can't wait until summer vacation. 15 days of school remaining... when it gets into single digits I will likely become unbearable. Full pay, flush toilets, and no work... can I get a HELL YES.
3. I can't wait until next year starts. Now that I actually understand all the aspects of my job, I feel like I can start working for real.
4. What kind of beer should I drink first to start off my summer? I'm taking recommendations.
5. Why haven't some people, by their mid-twenties, escaped the high school mentality?
6. If I can't have Jon Stewart, Brad Pitt will also do.
7. You can't control Ma Nature. Snowmelt and a little rain, combined with a perpetual tendency to change, have caused a small river that is usually diverted under our village's main road to... um... cross the road. So now you're driving along, minding your own business, when all the sudden, there's five feet of river to cross. I've taken to walking. Crossing a hastily-thrown-down plank bridge across a river that wasn't there a week ago is kinda fun. One day last week the plank fell in the water and I helped put it back.
8. Mom and Dad, remember that fishing rod and reel you bought me for Christmas? Well, the rivers are open and meat is expensive up here... can I have my fishing pole?
9. Our phone is dead. After being very shifty for a long while (those who have called me can attest to the fact that the connection has gotten worse and worse over the past few months), our line is now completely dead. No dial tone, even. Call me at school if you need to!
10. September seems so long ago... I was a totally different person then. More on this at a later date, as it's totally worthy of its own post as the school year draws to a close.
1. Jon Stewart will be mine. I realize that he his happily married with a child and is too old for me, but nonetheless, he shall be mine. My love for him grows exponentially by the day... Not that I'm a stalker or anything. *looks around furtively*
2. I can't wait until summer vacation. 15 days of school remaining... when it gets into single digits I will likely become unbearable. Full pay, flush toilets, and no work... can I get a HELL YES.
3. I can't wait until next year starts. Now that I actually understand all the aspects of my job, I feel like I can start working for real.
4. What kind of beer should I drink first to start off my summer? I'm taking recommendations.
5. Why haven't some people, by their mid-twenties, escaped the high school mentality?
6. If I can't have Jon Stewart, Brad Pitt will also do.
7. You can't control Ma Nature. Snowmelt and a little rain, combined with a perpetual tendency to change, have caused a small river that is usually diverted under our village's main road to... um... cross the road. So now you're driving along, minding your own business, when all the sudden, there's five feet of river to cross. I've taken to walking. Crossing a hastily-thrown-down plank bridge across a river that wasn't there a week ago is kinda fun. One day last week the plank fell in the water and I helped put it back.
8. Mom and Dad, remember that fishing rod and reel you bought me for Christmas? Well, the rivers are open and meat is expensive up here... can I have my fishing pole?
9. Our phone is dead. After being very shifty for a long while (those who have called me can attest to the fact that the connection has gotten worse and worse over the past few months), our line is now completely dead. No dial tone, even. Call me at school if you need to!
10. September seems so long ago... I was a totally different person then. More on this at a later date, as it's totally worthy of its own post as the school year draws to a close.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Geographic Weakness
Two friends are going through rough times lately... both are faced with losing (having lost in one case or being at risk of losing in the other) friends. Neither friend-of-mine knows the other, although I know I've mentioned each to the other at one point or another. I've never met the friends-of-theirs in person, so the pain isn't my own.
But (and isn't there always a but)... I'm a helper. I'm the kid who, in kindergarten, had to take an art project home because I wandered around helping other kids finish theirs and never did quite get around to doing my own. I'd love nothing more than to give each of them a big hug, bring them hot chocolate or beer or something. Put a little change in the karma jar in exchange for all the stuff that people have done for me when I've needed it. Encouraging e-mails just don't do their feelings justice, I don't think.
Being far away can suck.
Wow, three posts in one day. That's just excessive. Especially since two of them have been long. That's it, I'm cut off.
But (and isn't there always a but)... I'm a helper. I'm the kid who, in kindergarten, had to take an art project home because I wandered around helping other kids finish theirs and never did quite get around to doing my own. I'd love nothing more than to give each of them a big hug, bring them hot chocolate or beer or something. Put a little change in the karma jar in exchange for all the stuff that people have done for me when I've needed it. Encouraging e-mails just don't do their feelings justice, I don't think.
Being far away can suck.
Wow, three posts in one day. That's just excessive. Especially since two of them have been long. That's it, I'm cut off.
Every Year, I Forget
Every year around this time (OK, earlier in the Lower 48), I'm reminded of just how beautiful and wonderful the world around us can be. I'm talking, of course, about SPRING!
After a wonderfully lazy morning, I stepped out the door to find weather somewhere in the 50s (I think)... cloudless sunshine... kids riding around on their bikes with soaked pant legs... adults out fixing things... planes flying, landing, and delivering mail and people with no problems... geese and ducks returning... you get the idea. That it was 15 degrees and blowing (quite painfully, I might add) snow only four days ago is almost unimaginable.
This is why I love living in a varying climate. I love changes in weather. Every year, I just want to skip and dance and run nekkid through the fields (metaphorically, of course, Mom and Dad) when it finally warms up... and then, come fall, I relish putting on jeans and sweatshirts and jackets and sweaters. I think it appeals to the short-attention-spannedness of my personality to be constantly able to look forward to a change. Ever notice how, every year, the first time it "smells like snow" and the first time it "smells like spring" seem special? Never mind that I'll soon be sick to death of heat and mosquitoes and humidity and being sweaty, and every winter I'm soon sick to death of having to take 10 minutes just to get dressed to brave the cold, and I'm five seconds from trading my soul for five minutes of tropical sunshine...
After a wonderfully lazy morning, I stepped out the door to find weather somewhere in the 50s (I think)... cloudless sunshine... kids riding around on their bikes with soaked pant legs... adults out fixing things... planes flying, landing, and delivering mail and people with no problems... geese and ducks returning... you get the idea. That it was 15 degrees and blowing (quite painfully, I might add) snow only four days ago is almost unimaginable.
This is why I love living in a varying climate. I love changes in weather. Every year, I just want to skip and dance and run nekkid through the fields (metaphorically, of course, Mom and Dad) when it finally warms up... and then, come fall, I relish putting on jeans and sweatshirts and jackets and sweaters. I think it appeals to the short-attention-spannedness of my personality to be constantly able to look forward to a change. Ever notice how, every year, the first time it "smells like snow" and the first time it "smells like spring" seem special? Never mind that I'll soon be sick to death of heat and mosquitoes and humidity and being sweaty, and every winter I'm soon sick to death of having to take 10 minutes just to get dressed to brave the cold, and I'm five seconds from trading my soul for five minutes of tropical sunshine...
Friday, April 22, 2005
Countdowns
19 more school days until summer vacaaaaaaaaaaation.
AND eight months (and a few days) until Ma, Pa, Sis #1 and Sis #2 go to HAWAII!
AND a month and a few days until my (markedly unmomentous) 26th birthday.
AND eight months (and a few days) until Ma, Pa, Sis #1 and Sis #2 go to HAWAII!
AND a month and a few days until my (markedly unmomentous) 26th birthday.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Avocadogasm
There are bananas, avocados, and melons at the store! Oh, it was sooooo gooooooood...
We haven't had fresh fruit or veggies at the store in a while... I made guacamole last night and it was the greatest guac I've ever had, despite the fact that I couldn't add the little bit of sour cream that I usually do. It was yuuuummmmyyyyy....
We haven't had fresh fruit or veggies at the store in a while... I made guacamole last night and it was the greatest guac I've ever had, despite the fact that I couldn't add the little bit of sour cream that I usually do. It was yuuuummmmyyyyy....
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
Insanity, Carefully Measured and Monitored
It's Cultural Week here at Kuinerrarmiut Elitnaurviat. Basically, every afternoon, the different age groups (k-2, 3-6, and Jr High/High School) get to say ix-nay on the egular-ray asses-clay and do cultural activities. Since I don't have "my" own classroom (I pull out other people's students), I am helping out with the high school girls' activities. We get to make leather-and-fur baby booties, bead bracelets, and qaspeqs.
Nicely put, it's chaotic. Managed, organized chaos, but chaos. I like structure in my life, so it's a challenge to let go of my desire to make everything quiet, organized, and calm. I'm trying my hardest, really.
Nicely put, it's chaotic. Managed, organized chaos, but chaos. I like structure in my life, so it's a challenge to let go of my desire to make everything quiet, organized, and calm. I'm trying my hardest, really.
Monday, April 11, 2005
What Weekend?
I was ALL pumped for Trivia weekend. Trivia Plan (version 1): stay at the school for most of the weekend, where the internet connection is good, and play to my heart's content. Ah, the best laid plans of mice, men, and Trivia Fiends...
Friday morning, I awoke to a peculiar gurgling in my stomach. Thinking it was a mild case of the revenge of the curry from the night before, I tied my best to ignore it, and went about my day. By 10AM, however, there was no denying it... i had either food poisoning, the flu, or some mysterious tropical disease recently migrated to the sub-Arctic. I may or may not have puked four times.
Made it to 3pm, which was the end of the work day. My (revised, now we're on version 2) Trivia Plan at that point was to go home, sleep for a few hours, then attempt to help out the late-night crew down in WI. Seemed like a good idea. Maybe I just had to sleep it off. Got home at 3:05. Was in bed by 3:06, clothing and all. Woke up at one point to use the bathroom and let the dog out. Might have hopped online at that point, I'm not sure. Searched for Tylenol. Realized it was at school. Fell back asleep. Woke up at... ???... I'm really not sure. I KNOW I played for an hour at some point in the night. I also happened to take my temperature at this juncture and it read 102.5. Asked Roomie for Tylenol. Roomie's Tylenol was also at school. Roomie went back to school for the slumber party she was hosting for her class. Went back to sleep. Woke up later, still simultaneously shivering and burning.
Went back to sleep. Woke up at 10:30. At this point I had been sleeping for... 19 hours? Granted, it wasn't quality sleep. When I get sick, I get super-achy and my skin gets really sensitive. The goosebumps from the shivering HURT, dammit.
Tried to play a little Trivia. Slept some more. Played again that night until about 2:30 AM AK time, when the random cold pill (which I didn't need for the decongestant or cough supression but the fever reducer was working quite nicely... and yes, I checked with Roomie, it was quite safe and from last year) I discovered in the medicine cabinet wore off.
Woke up on Sunday... FEELING FINE! A little headachy and dizzy from not eating for two days, but otherwise fine. Played Trivia until midnight, WI time. We took 12th. Shibby's team took 7th. Congrats.
I feel, however, like I got cheated out of a weekend. I slept for most of it! No Fair!
Friday morning, I awoke to a peculiar gurgling in my stomach. Thinking it was a mild case of the revenge of the curry from the night before, I tied my best to ignore it, and went about my day. By 10AM, however, there was no denying it... i had either food poisoning, the flu, or some mysterious tropical disease recently migrated to the sub-Arctic. I may or may not have puked four times.
Made it to 3pm, which was the end of the work day. My (revised, now we're on version 2) Trivia Plan at that point was to go home, sleep for a few hours, then attempt to help out the late-night crew down in WI. Seemed like a good idea. Maybe I just had to sleep it off. Got home at 3:05. Was in bed by 3:06, clothing and all. Woke up at one point to use the bathroom and let the dog out. Might have hopped online at that point, I'm not sure. Searched for Tylenol. Realized it was at school. Fell back asleep. Woke up at... ???... I'm really not sure. I KNOW I played for an hour at some point in the night. I also happened to take my temperature at this juncture and it read 102.5. Asked Roomie for Tylenol. Roomie's Tylenol was also at school. Roomie went back to school for the slumber party she was hosting for her class. Went back to sleep. Woke up later, still simultaneously shivering and burning.
Went back to sleep. Woke up at 10:30. At this point I had been sleeping for... 19 hours? Granted, it wasn't quality sleep. When I get sick, I get super-achy and my skin gets really sensitive. The goosebumps from the shivering HURT, dammit.
Tried to play a little Trivia. Slept some more. Played again that night until about 2:30 AM AK time, when the random cold pill (which I didn't need for the decongestant or cough supression but the fever reducer was working quite nicely... and yes, I checked with Roomie, it was quite safe and from last year) I discovered in the medicine cabinet wore off.
Woke up on Sunday... FEELING FINE! A little headachy and dizzy from not eating for two days, but otherwise fine. Played Trivia until midnight, WI time. We took 12th. Shibby's team took 7th. Congrats.
I feel, however, like I got cheated out of a weekend. I slept for most of it! No Fair!
Thursday, April 07, 2005
Trivial Honors
In honor of the world's largest Trivia Contest, I would like to present the following poem.
Shibby is a trivia dummy.
Questions give him an upset tummy
He's nat'rally limited, this is true,
But there's really not much we can do.
He's terminally, eternally, totally, incredibly crummy.
Not high-quality, I realize this. But true, nonetheless.
Shibby is a trivia dummy.
Questions give him an upset tummy
He's nat'rally limited, this is true,
But there's really not much we can do.
He's terminally, eternally, totally, incredibly crummy.
Not high-quality, I realize this. But true, nonetheless.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
I'm gonna whine a bit.
What a bad day. Standardized testing, one serious issue with a student, and all on not enough sleep last night.
And on top of it all, I'm hungry.
On the upside, however, when my Trivia team whomps Shibby's trivia team, I will get free dinner and drinks. Oh, those greasy cheese fries from the Springville Wharf in Plover, WI... and a beer... and maybe a bloody mary. And the best part? none of it's coming out of my wallet because we're going to smack them down like the little biznatches they are.
And on top of it all, I'm hungry.
On the upside, however, when my Trivia team whomps Shibby's trivia team, I will get free dinner and drinks. Oh, those greasy cheese fries from the Springville Wharf in Plover, WI... and a beer... and maybe a bloody mary. And the best part? none of it's coming out of my wallet because we're going to smack them down like the little biznatches they are.
Friday, April 01, 2005
They Happen In Threes
So... the Pope is on his way out. He's been sick for a long time. Good leader, good life story... can't say he has done all he could to better the Catholic church in my eyes, but when someone's on his/her deathbead, it's generally a time to look at the good. And anyway, he's real tight with the big guy so it's probably better to not diss him too much. ;-)
Schiavo's gone. She's been really gone for years, but now she's officially gone. That a tragic family squabble over a very serious issue became a national incident is a sad statement on the nature of our political figureheads. 'Nuff said.
Johnnie Cochrain's gone. Don't feel like that one has any emotional impact on me, positive or negative. He defended OJ, for chrissake.
Well, these things always happen in threes. There are our three.
Schiavo's gone. She's been really gone for years, but now she's officially gone. That a tragic family squabble over a very serious issue became a national incident is a sad statement on the nature of our political figureheads. 'Nuff said.
Johnnie Cochrain's gone. Don't feel like that one has any emotional impact on me, positive or negative. He defended OJ, for chrissake.
Well, these things always happen in threes. There are our three.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Why not? We've come this far...
I've decided that I want the cold weather to stick around for at least two more days... just so I can say it's 20 below zero in April. I mean, if it's going to be that cold, what's a few more days?
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Happy... January?
It's 10 below zero right now.
No further commentary necessary.
Although... the walk in to school this morning DID serve as a refreshing wake-up.
No further commentary necessary.
Although... the walk in to school this morning DID serve as a refreshing wake-up.
Monday, March 28, 2005
So, Um
It's the day after Easter.
Nothing says "Happy Easter" like fresh knee-deep snowdrifts, huh?
But hey, we're getting more sunlight... that's a very, very good thing.
March 28, 2005 Sun Rise Sun Set
Actual Time 7:21 AM AKST 8:19 PM AKST
Civil Twilight 6:39 AM AKST 9:01 PM AKST
Nothing says "Happy Easter" like fresh knee-deep snowdrifts, huh?
But hey, we're getting more sunlight... that's a very, very good thing.
March 28, 2005 Sun Rise Sun Set
Actual Time 7:21 AM AKST 8:19 PM AKST
Civil Twilight 6:39 AM AKST 9:01 PM AKST
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Allow me to wax bitchy for a minute...
Why did President Bush wait four days to make a statement of sympathy for the victims and their families of the Red Lake school shooting? If memory serves, Clinton made such a statement within HOURS of a very similar shooting in Littleton, CO. Now, I'm not Bill Clinton's biggest fan, but sheesh. It took Bush four days to put together a five-minute phone call to the Red Lake Band's chairman, and five days to put together a public statement.
Far be it from me to cry racial foul when none exists, but the victims and perpetrators in Columbine were White, the victims and perpetrators in Red Lake were (all? mostly?) Native American. So, either Bush is a phenomenal idiot and just didn't see that a public statement of sympthy was probably in order, or he's a racist bastard, even if it is in the most clueless sense of the word.
*sigh*
And on a much more positive note... You may remember a while ago I mentioned some of our junior high students won the AK state Native Science Fair and were going on to nationals. Well, we got a call at home this morning form nationals in New Mexico... our students took second place! Their project, which compared heat loss in a traditional Yup'ik sod home and a modern insulated frame home, was way cool... and a well-executed exercise in the scientific method.
Anyway, they are awesome. There should be a link in the local newspaper next week... I'll post it and force you to read it. ;-)
Far be it from me to cry racial foul when none exists, but the victims and perpetrators in Columbine were White, the victims and perpetrators in Red Lake were (all? mostly?) Native American. So, either Bush is a phenomenal idiot and just didn't see that a public statement of sympthy was probably in order, or he's a racist bastard, even if it is in the most clueless sense of the word.
*sigh*
And on a much more positive note... You may remember a while ago I mentioned some of our junior high students won the AK state Native Science Fair and were going on to nationals. Well, we got a call at home this morning form nationals in New Mexico... our students took second place! Their project, which compared heat loss in a traditional Yup'ik sod home and a modern insulated frame home, was way cool... and a well-executed exercise in the scientific method.
Anyway, they are awesome. There should be a link in the local newspaper next week... I'll post it and force you to read it. ;-)
excuse me while my head explodes
So. How's my week been?
I'm in the midst of testing all of our LEP (Limited English Proficiency) students. In dealing with the K-6 students, I have to test each of them on oral comprehension and production (known in the normal human world as listening and speaking), then administer a reading/writing test. here's the catch... nearly ALL of the students at our school are LEP. That's over 100 students that I have to test. There's only one version of the test, so I have to ask the same inane questions about the same inane pictures over and over and over and over and over and over and over... only to have my (educated, but not No Child Left Behind-sanctioned) infomal evaluation of a given student's language level affirmed. Well, there have been a few surprises, but for the most part, I can predict what level they'll test at. I know that having consistency in testing is important, but didn't they consider Teacher Sanity Levels at ALL while designing these tests?!
It sucks.
See, what I like about teaching is that it provides consistency and structure (which I need in my life) but it's not monotonous (which would drive me insane). Testing has thrown both of those out the window... I'm no longer operating on my normal schedule AND I'm having to do very tedious, repetitive, somewhat mindless work.
Next week, our students take their Big Scary State Test. Then we get the results and find out that (SURPRISE!) our students didn't score as well as someone thousands of miles away says they should. Must be my fault. Never mind that a given student may have scored better than next year... if he's still below an acceptable level, we clearly haven't done a good job. Sure he was two years behind grade level last year and now he's only one year behind, but dammit, what's wrong with our school?
All hail Standardized Testing!
I'm in the midst of testing all of our LEP (Limited English Proficiency) students. In dealing with the K-6 students, I have to test each of them on oral comprehension and production (known in the normal human world as listening and speaking), then administer a reading/writing test. here's the catch... nearly ALL of the students at our school are LEP. That's over 100 students that I have to test. There's only one version of the test, so I have to ask the same inane questions about the same inane pictures over and over and over and over and over and over and over... only to have my (educated, but not No Child Left Behind-sanctioned) infomal evaluation of a given student's language level affirmed. Well, there have been a few surprises, but for the most part, I can predict what level they'll test at. I know that having consistency in testing is important, but didn't they consider Teacher Sanity Levels at ALL while designing these tests?!
It sucks.
See, what I like about teaching is that it provides consistency and structure (which I need in my life) but it's not monotonous (which would drive me insane). Testing has thrown both of those out the window... I'm no longer operating on my normal schedule AND I'm having to do very tedious, repetitive, somewhat mindless work.
Next week, our students take their Big Scary State Test. Then we get the results and find out that (SURPRISE!) our students didn't score as well as someone thousands of miles away says they should. Must be my fault. Never mind that a given student may have scored better than next year... if he's still below an acceptable level, we clearly haven't done a good job. Sure he was two years behind grade level last year and now he's only one year behind, but dammit, what's wrong with our school?
All hail Standardized Testing!
Monday, March 21, 2005
I'm BAAAAAAAAACK
Made it safe and sound (no travel delays in EITHER DIRECTION this time; the gods were smiling down on me) to the village. School started uneventfully if a little late (late start today due to weather) and I'm trying my best to get myself and my students settled back into academic life after a week of fishing, hunting, and playing (for them) and drinking, eating and playing (for me).
Anyway, for those of you who know me personally, and would have cause to call me, and attempted to do so yesterday, you may have noticed that our phone is a big piece of crap. It doesn't work when it's windy (something's wrong with our line outside), and it was windy as a mothaf***a yesterday. The phone rang a bunch of times, but I couldn't even tell who was on the other end. So if it was you... sorry! Hopefully the wind will die down (it seems a little better today) and it will again be functional. If not, call me at school.
So... vacation recap: Therese and Pasha and their housemates are AWESOME! I cannot stress this enough. They rock. San Francisco is a kickass town and I want to go back again and be able to stay longer. So much to see, so little time. Monterey is also cool. Very interesting town, population-wise... bunch of college students (international and domestic), bunch of military folks, bunch of retirees. St Patrick's day is a great holiday because it's really just all about the drinking.
Going from the village to California was a little (ok, a lot) surreal. I mean, they have wineries and sushi restaurants and all that stuff. Scary multi-lane highways. People I haven't seen before. All sorts of stuff that is perfectly normal for the rest of the country but completely outside the realm of my everyday experience.
It was fun, and I'd love to go back... but it's good to be back.
Anyway, for those of you who know me personally, and would have cause to call me, and attempted to do so yesterday, you may have noticed that our phone is a big piece of crap. It doesn't work when it's windy (something's wrong with our line outside), and it was windy as a mothaf***a yesterday. The phone rang a bunch of times, but I couldn't even tell who was on the other end. So if it was you... sorry! Hopefully the wind will die down (it seems a little better today) and it will again be functional. If not, call me at school.
So... vacation recap: Therese and Pasha and their housemates are AWESOME! I cannot stress this enough. They rock. San Francisco is a kickass town and I want to go back again and be able to stay longer. So much to see, so little time. Monterey is also cool. Very interesting town, population-wise... bunch of college students (international and domestic), bunch of military folks, bunch of retirees. St Patrick's day is a great holiday because it's really just all about the drinking.
Going from the village to California was a little (ok, a lot) surreal. I mean, they have wineries and sushi restaurants and all that stuff. Scary multi-lane highways. People I haven't seen before. All sorts of stuff that is perfectly normal for the rest of the country but completely outside the realm of my everyday experience.
It was fun, and I'd love to go back... but it's good to be back.
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
I'm Shocked
So I got sent to purgatory... I thought FOR SURE I'd get sent to Limbo at least.
I feel like I'm not living life to the fullest if I'm not eligible for at least the first level of Dante's Inferno
The Dante's Inferno Test has sent you to Purgatory!
Here is how you matched up against all the levels:
Take the Dante's Inferno Hell Test
I feel like I'm not living life to the fullest if I'm not eligible for at least the first level of Dante's Inferno
The Dante's Inferno Test has sent you to Purgatory!
Here is how you matched up against all the levels:
| Level | Score |
|---|---|
| Purgatory (Repenting Believers) | Extreme |
| Level 1 - Limbo (Virtuous Non-Believers) | High |
| Level 2 (Lustful) | High |
| Level 3 (Gluttonous) | Very Low |
| Level 4 (Prodigal and Avaricious) | Very Low |
| Level 5 (Wrathful and Gloomy) | Low |
| Level 6 - The City of Dis (Heretics) | Very Low |
| Level 7 (Violent) | Moderate |
| Level 8- the Malebolge (Fraudulent, Malicious, Panderers) | Low |
| Level 9 - Cocytus (Treacherous) | Very Low |
Take the Dante's Inferno Hell Test
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
A tough decision
Tomorrow, I will face an important decision.
Should I loaf about or just lounge around?
Vacation is rough.
Should I loaf about or just lounge around?
Vacation is rough.
Sunday, March 13, 2005
Hello From California!
I arrived safely (and ON TIME!) last night at 7pm Western. We spent the night in San Francisco last night... hit a couple bars, saw some live cuban music, went to the bathroom in a flush toilet...
And now we're off to wander around San Francisco!
And now we're off to wander around San Francisco!
Friday, March 11, 2005
Ritual
For us unattached, non-sport-playing, non-against-leg-shaving-as-a-general-rule women, we eventually reach a moment at which we must bite the bullet and de-fuzz. In many cases, such as mine, it arises out of simple desire. I'm perfectly aware that I do not need to shave. I am just fine with my leg hair. We're friends, even. Thus the whole not shaving through the dark months and not caring who sees me in my shorts. After a while, I kind of started to like the fuzz. Besides, we have body hair to regulate body temperature, and I live in freakin Alaska. A little fuzz is more than appropriate, sez I.
Yesterday, though, I shaved. I'm going to Cali-freakin-fornia, and it just seemed like as good a time as any. And for some sick, twisted reason, I got to thinking... let's say Aliens were studying our planet and practices. They might see this First Shaving After A Very Long Time might appear to be a seasonal riual of some sort. How might their anthropological notes on the matter look?
You women out there know the ritual. First, you make sure you have PLENTY of time and a fresh razor blade. Maybe put on some music, although I didn't go this route. Announce to those around that you are going to perform the ritual ("Hey Roomie, I'm going to shave my legs!"). Now, this is not generally a public ritual, although there are no strict rules prohibiting it. Generally, however, the practitioner secludes herself in the ritual chamber ("bathroom"). At this point, the specific rites can vary. Many women choose to disrobe entirely and completely immerse in water (a "bath"), or stand under a spray of water (a "shower"). Others choose to only partially undress and only bathe the legs.
Thus begins the First Shaving Of The Legs After A Very Long Time. The shaving process, while fairly routine during the summer months, can present the woman with some difficulty the first time around. The shaving implement (A "razor") has to be cleansed ("rinsed") repeatedly to keep it in good working order.
After the ritual, the woman emerges from the ritual chamber refreshed and ready to face a season of short- and skirt-wearing. She may now announce to all that she has shaved, and allow others to "feel how smooth they are." Subsequent summer shavings are far less formal and time-consuming, but the woman my perform the First Shaving Of The Legs After A Very Long Time whenever she feels it is appropriate.
Yesterday, though, I shaved. I'm going to Cali-freakin-fornia, and it just seemed like as good a time as any. And for some sick, twisted reason, I got to thinking... let's say Aliens were studying our planet and practices. They might see this First Shaving After A Very Long Time might appear to be a seasonal riual of some sort. How might their anthropological notes on the matter look?
You women out there know the ritual. First, you make sure you have PLENTY of time and a fresh razor blade. Maybe put on some music, although I didn't go this route. Announce to those around that you are going to perform the ritual ("Hey Roomie, I'm going to shave my legs!"). Now, this is not generally a public ritual, although there are no strict rules prohibiting it. Generally, however, the practitioner secludes herself in the ritual chamber ("bathroom"). At this point, the specific rites can vary. Many women choose to disrobe entirely and completely immerse in water (a "bath"), or stand under a spray of water (a "shower"). Others choose to only partially undress and only bathe the legs.
Thus begins the First Shaving Of The Legs After A Very Long Time. The shaving process, while fairly routine during the summer months, can present the woman with some difficulty the first time around. The shaving implement (A "razor") has to be cleansed ("rinsed") repeatedly to keep it in good working order.
After the ritual, the woman emerges from the ritual chamber refreshed and ready to face a season of short- and skirt-wearing. She may now announce to all that she has shaved, and allow others to "feel how smooth they are." Subsequent summer shavings are far less formal and time-consuming, but the woman my perform the First Shaving Of The Legs After A Very Long Time whenever she feels it is appropriate.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
So... like...
I'll be heading out to California in two days. Therese and Pasha have vodka waiting for me.
This is going to kick ass.
This is going to kick ass.
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
A Recommendation
If you're looking for a movie to make you think (minus flashy musical score and gripping action scenes and blah blah blah), rent Rabbit Proof Fence.
Basically... three Australian Aboriginal girls were taken from their homes and put into a "school" far from their homes. But those damn heathen girls for some reason (please please please read the sarcasm I tried to write in there) didn't like the idea of being taken away from their parents. Anyway, long story short, they walked across the Australian bush, evading capture.
Like I said, it's not a Hollywood-style movie during which you can turn your brain off and be passively entertained. Frankly, it's not that exciting a movie if you're expecting an action-filled chase across the wilds of Australia. Most of it is just the three girls... walking, getting food, figuring out whether they can trust people along the way. But somewhere in the middle of the movie, you find yourself invested in their story and their wellbeing. You want them to make it home. The girls they had play the parts are not professional actresses; they're just Aboriginal kids they found who could act. As a result, the performances aren't polished, but they're heartfelt... you can tell these girls grew up hearing stories like this from parents/grandparents and that they know exactly what they're talking about.
See it if you think it's your thing.
Enough about that. I need to get back to work.
Basically... three Australian Aboriginal girls were taken from their homes and put into a "school" far from their homes. But those damn heathen girls for some reason (please please please read the sarcasm I tried to write in there) didn't like the idea of being taken away from their parents. Anyway, long story short, they walked across the Australian bush, evading capture.
Like I said, it's not a Hollywood-style movie during which you can turn your brain off and be passively entertained. Frankly, it's not that exciting a movie if you're expecting an action-filled chase across the wilds of Australia. Most of it is just the three girls... walking, getting food, figuring out whether they can trust people along the way. But somewhere in the middle of the movie, you find yourself invested in their story and their wellbeing. You want them to make it home. The girls they had play the parts are not professional actresses; they're just Aboriginal kids they found who could act. As a result, the performances aren't polished, but they're heartfelt... you can tell these girls grew up hearing stories like this from parents/grandparents and that they know exactly what they're talking about.
See it if you think it's your thing.
Enough about that. I need to get back to work.
Sunday, March 06, 2005
Saturday, March 05, 2005
WAAAAAAAH
It's Saturday and we have to work. It's also pretty nice out (clear and not too cold, a little wind but not too bad), which makes it all the more painful to be here working on grades and planning for next year...
Although...
Planning for how to better serve my students next year is much more exciting than entering grades into a computer system that likes to shut down on a whim. Guess which one I'm doing first?
Although...
Planning for how to better serve my students next year is much more exciting than entering grades into a computer system that likes to shut down on a whim. Guess which one I'm doing first?
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Visitors From Another Pay Grade
District Office and State Department of Education folks are visiting today...
Funny how the everyday act of teaching becomes more stressful under the watchful (but overall very friendly) eyes of the superiors...
Funny how the everyday act of teaching becomes more stressful under the watchful (but overall very friendly) eyes of the superiors...
Monday, February 28, 2005
A Swift Self-Kick in the Pants (Boring Teacher Post)
I've been a bit lazy lately. It's February. February can be a long month. My desk wasn't so much a work station as a storage unit. I could barely work at it. Those who know me know that if my surroundings are messy, I don't function well. Yesterday, I decided I'd had it. I've known for months how I want my classroom set up, but I haven't had the desire to take a full day out of my weekend to do the work.
Yesterday was that day.
My desk is in a new, better place... blocking off the little niche of my room where the filing cabinets, microwave and little fridge are located. My students know that my desk is my space, but now there's no question that the area by the files and food is also my personal space.
It's also nice because I've finally figured my job out, meaning that I can organize my classroom around what I need, not what I think I might maybe need. Sheesh, it only took me six months to figure out and an a 12-hour Sunday of work to get right.
First year teaching is a bitch. Like I said to our dean of students today... I've got a "What I'll do differently next year" list that's really more of an epic novel.
Yesterday was that day.
My desk is in a new, better place... blocking off the little niche of my room where the filing cabinets, microwave and little fridge are located. My students know that my desk is my space, but now there's no question that the area by the files and food is also my personal space.
It's also nice because I've finally figured my job out, meaning that I can organize my classroom around what I need, not what I think I might maybe need. Sheesh, it only took me six months to figure out and an a 12-hour Sunday of work to get right.
First year teaching is a bitch. Like I said to our dean of students today... I've got a "What I'll do differently next year" list that's really more of an epic novel.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Happy Birthday, Dad
OK, it's not your birthday here yet... a half hour to go.
I won't tell how old you are in this public forum... One day closer to retirement will suffice.
Thanks for everything you've done for me and my sisters over the years! Mom, too, but she'll get her own on her birthday.
I won't tell how old you are in this public forum... One day closer to retirement will suffice.
Thanks for everything you've done for me and my sisters over the years! Mom, too, but she'll get her own on her birthday.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
Ice Fishing
I took a bunch of kids ice fishing today. Ice fishing the old-fashioned way: with sticks that have fishing line tied to them. We were smelt fishing (small fish) and darn if it wasn't fun.
At about noon, a student came to get me. Roomie gave us a ride out to where the fishin's good (and where other people have already drilled holes). On the way, we picked up about four other kids, drove them to their houses to get outfitted in snowpants, etc, and FINALLY got to the ice fishing spot at ten after one.
Let the good times commence. On our walk from the road to the spot, we picked up two more kids. Once we got out there, we found our school secretary already there, along with two students and their dad, and some other folks.
Since we had picked up the two extra kids, we were now short two "iqseks" (sticks for fishing, don't quote me on the spelling). As a result, I only got to fish for about five minutes, but I did bring in two fish, plus the one that got snagged just as I handed my stick to a student... so I count it as three. Three little tiny fish which I gave to a student since it's not worth it to keep smelt unless you've got a bunch to make soup or something.
Good times, good times.
At about noon, a student came to get me. Roomie gave us a ride out to where the fishin's good (and where other people have already drilled holes). On the way, we picked up about four other kids, drove them to their houses to get outfitted in snowpants, etc, and FINALLY got to the ice fishing spot at ten after one.
Let the good times commence. On our walk from the road to the spot, we picked up two more kids. Once we got out there, we found our school secretary already there, along with two students and their dad, and some other folks.
Since we had picked up the two extra kids, we were now short two "iqseks" (sticks for fishing, don't quote me on the spelling). As a result, I only got to fish for about five minutes, but I did bring in two fish, plus the one that got snagged just as I handed my stick to a student... so I count it as three. Three little tiny fish which I gave to a student since it's not worth it to keep smelt unless you've got a bunch to make soup or something.
Good times, good times.
Friday, February 25, 2005
Stomach Flu
Yup, that was fun. I got the one-day stomach flu that's been going around town. No fun, let me tell you. I went to bed feeling fine, then woke up wanting to puke my guts out. Went into work for a little while to do up sub stuff (was TOTALLY not prepared to be sick; it hit that quickly), then headed home to be miserable.
But I'm all better now. Life is good.
But I'm all better now. Life is good.
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
The Blahs
It's February, it's time for the February Funk.
How can the shortest month of the year ALWAYS feel like it drags on and on and on and on and on? Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.
On a more positive note, I'm losing weight. Nothing huge; I'm averaging a pound a week or so, but something's better than nothing, right? Even with my fatty feast at New Teacher Inservice last weekend that included seal, beluga whale, I still lost my pound for the week.
Also on a positive note, the sun was (BARELY) starting to come up when I walked to school yesterday at 7:45. No significant light, but it was something to celebrate. I'm kinda sad that I'm here for the long nights and that I'm not going to be here to enjoy the long days. I do, however, want to come back a week or two early and do some berry picking and maybe gathering of some plants that are supposed to be good for making tea when you're congested. My dad wants to come and go fishing... he can do traditional man stuff and I can do traditional woman stuff. Because I'm SOOOOOOOOO tradtional. ;-)
How can the shortest month of the year ALWAYS feel like it drags on and on and on and on and on? Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.
On a more positive note, I'm losing weight. Nothing huge; I'm averaging a pound a week or so, but something's better than nothing, right? Even with my fatty feast at New Teacher Inservice last weekend that included seal, beluga whale, I still lost my pound for the week.
Also on a positive note, the sun was (BARELY) starting to come up when I walked to school yesterday at 7:45. No significant light, but it was something to celebrate. I'm kinda sad that I'm here for the long nights and that I'm not going to be here to enjoy the long days. I do, however, want to come back a week or two early and do some berry picking and maybe gathering of some plants that are supposed to be good for making tea when you're congested. My dad wants to come and go fishing... he can do traditional man stuff and I can do traditional woman stuff. Because I'm SOOOOOOOOO tradtional. ;-)
Monday, February 21, 2005
Check It Out!
Gizoogle
My blog translated: http://sites.gizoogle.com/?url=http://smaccalaska.blogspot.com
Don't click on this if a few f-bombs scare you. SO GREAT!
My blog translated: http://sites.gizoogle.com/?url=http://smaccalaska.blogspot.com
Don't click on this if a few f-bombs scare you. SO GREAT!
Friday, February 18, 2005
So Neglectful
Yes, I've been a bad blogger. BAD SARA! BAD BAD SARA!
Had the most harrowing take-off of my brief bush teaching career. This afternoon, I had to go into Bethel for our last (!) New Teacher Inservice. Waiting at the airport where there were no buildings, I noticed even more than in the village how windy it was. The guy who gave me a ride there (the local agent for that specific airline) said about 40 knots or so. The plane landed, but wasn't able to turn the corner to meet us on the access area (where trucks and cars and stuff pull up to the planes). So we drove out onto the (still gravel) runway.
Got into the plane, which was shaking quite nicely in the wind, mind you. The pilot turned to me and said "We're going to take off going this way, it that all right with you?" He kind of gestured out in front of the plane.
I nodded, mostly out of good midwestern politeness, without really taking the time to think about it. Bush pilots generally know their shit. Only after the engine had started up did I look out the front of the airplane... we only had maybe 1/3 of the runway in front of us. This is not a long, paved, can-land-jets kind of runway to start with, so 1/3 of it is pretty dang short.
I think to myself, he's not going to go that way, I must have misunderstood him. Oh, but I didn't.
So we start moving forward. Now, I know that you're supposed to take off into the wind, but I figured we'd go to the other end of the runway, or at least part of the way down, before turning around and taking off. But noooooooooooooooo. We just went. Straight forward, towards the place where a few orange airport cone thingies marked the place where the runway drops off into the tundra.
I'm usually a fairly relaxed flier and I pride myself on not shrieking or tensing up when we go over big wind bumps, but I'll freely and gladly admit that were I not a compulsive nailbiter, I would have had fingernail marks on my hands from clenching them so tightly. We made it into the air going pretty slow (strong winds are good for that) and climbed basically straight up. I'd never ascended that quickly in a bush plane before.
Maybe I should have said "No, it's not OK if we take off on this little mini-chunk of runway. Turn around and do it proper." But from what the pilot told me after we landed, turning the plane around in that wind would have flipped it over... that's why he didn't make the turn to come over to the loading/unloading area. So had I said no, I would have had a choice to either get off the plane or suck it up and take it like a woman.
Got to Bethel just fine and am now relaxing at the bed-and-breakfast (or what passes for one in Bethel) with a friend from another village. Said friend informed me that calories don't count in Bethel (the stress of being in Bethel makes up for any calories that you take in). I decided that was a wonderful thing and proceeded to order a double bacon pineapple cheeseburger.
Had the most harrowing take-off of my brief bush teaching career. This afternoon, I had to go into Bethel for our last (!) New Teacher Inservice. Waiting at the airport where there were no buildings, I noticed even more than in the village how windy it was. The guy who gave me a ride there (the local agent for that specific airline) said about 40 knots or so. The plane landed, but wasn't able to turn the corner to meet us on the access area (where trucks and cars and stuff pull up to the planes). So we drove out onto the (still gravel) runway.
Got into the plane, which was shaking quite nicely in the wind, mind you. The pilot turned to me and said "We're going to take off going this way, it that all right with you?" He kind of gestured out in front of the plane.
I nodded, mostly out of good midwestern politeness, without really taking the time to think about it. Bush pilots generally know their shit. Only after the engine had started up did I look out the front of the airplane... we only had maybe 1/3 of the runway in front of us. This is not a long, paved, can-land-jets kind of runway to start with, so 1/3 of it is pretty dang short.
I think to myself, he's not going to go that way, I must have misunderstood him. Oh, but I didn't.
So we start moving forward. Now, I know that you're supposed to take off into the wind, but I figured we'd go to the other end of the runway, or at least part of the way down, before turning around and taking off. But noooooooooooooooo. We just went. Straight forward, towards the place where a few orange airport cone thingies marked the place where the runway drops off into the tundra.
I'm usually a fairly relaxed flier and I pride myself on not shrieking or tensing up when we go over big wind bumps, but I'll freely and gladly admit that were I not a compulsive nailbiter, I would have had fingernail marks on my hands from clenching them so tightly. We made it into the air going pretty slow (strong winds are good for that) and climbed basically straight up. I'd never ascended that quickly in a bush plane before.
Maybe I should have said "No, it's not OK if we take off on this little mini-chunk of runway. Turn around and do it proper." But from what the pilot told me after we landed, turning the plane around in that wind would have flipped it over... that's why he didn't make the turn to come over to the loading/unloading area. So had I said no, I would have had a choice to either get off the plane or suck it up and take it like a woman.
Got to Bethel just fine and am now relaxing at the bed-and-breakfast (or what passes for one in Bethel) with a friend from another village. Said friend informed me that calories don't count in Bethel (the stress of being in Bethel makes up for any calories that you take in). I decided that was a wonderful thing and proceeded to order a double bacon pineapple cheeseburger.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Randomness
I dyed my hair last night. No big deal, nothing wild or crazy, I just wanted to add some red to it. I'm fairly disappointed with the results... you can hardly see a difference. Grr. But it was a good evening's worth of entertainment. Roomie is weathered in another village with our entire jr high basketball team, so I've been having to entertain myself. Monday night: baked bread. Tuesday night: dyed hair. She better get in today or I'll have to resort to cleaning.
150 days until the new Harry Potter book comes out. I have it on pre-order to be sent to my parents' address since I won't be here. How much of a childish geek am I?
I came back from the bilingual conference with a renewed zest for teaching. If only I had had time to lesson plan, this would be an amazing week of educational wonder. Instead it's so-so.
I had beer in Anchorage. Four of them. They were good. If you're ever in Alaska and you like dark beer, try the Alaskan Smoked Porter. You won't regret it.
150 days until the new Harry Potter book comes out. I have it on pre-order to be sent to my parents' address since I won't be here. How much of a childish geek am I?
I came back from the bilingual conference with a renewed zest for teaching. If only I had had time to lesson plan, this would be an amazing week of educational wonder. Instead it's so-so.
I had beer in Anchorage. Four of them. They were good. If you're ever in Alaska and you like dark beer, try the Alaskan Smoked Porter. You won't regret it.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
Why I'm not going to sleep on bush planes anymore
We got stuck in Bethel overnight coming back from Anchorage because of bad weather (it was actually a pleasant experience for once since I had people to stay with), and we got out this afternoon after almost four hours of waiting at the airport. As soon as we take off, I doze off. I can't normally sleep on planes or in cars, but for some reason the loud background nose and vibrations of the bush plans put me right to sleep.
Now, before we left had Bethel, the people at the aiport had put up a sign saying that there was a lost snowmachiner somewhere north of Eek who had been missing since last night. I had half thought at the time "Hey, I should keep an eye out, we're heading south and will pass right over Eek." But, like I said, bush planes put me to sleep, scary wind-induced bumps and all.
Anyway, after a while I awake and feel Liz (kindergarten teacher) tugging on the sleeve of the pilot, who is sitting next to me. She points down at the ground, and sure enough, there are two men and a snowmachine (snowmobile) next to a little shack that I think is usually used in the summer for fishing, but I didn't ask. The men had just shot off a flare and were waving their arms.
So anyway, we circled around, dropped down real low, and waved to them. They were waving their gas can... either they ran out of gas or it was just something bright colored to wave, I don't know which. The pilot called on the radio for them to send the State Troopers. We circled around again, tipped our wings back and forth at them, and continued on.
The whole thing made an otherwise routine (and extra slow, we had a 40 knot headwind the whole way, according to the pilot) trip a little more interesting. I couldn't fall back asleep afterwards.
Now, before we left had Bethel, the people at the aiport had put up a sign saying that there was a lost snowmachiner somewhere north of Eek who had been missing since last night. I had half thought at the time "Hey, I should keep an eye out, we're heading south and will pass right over Eek." But, like I said, bush planes put me to sleep, scary wind-induced bumps and all.
Anyway, after a while I awake and feel Liz (kindergarten teacher) tugging on the sleeve of the pilot, who is sitting next to me. She points down at the ground, and sure enough, there are two men and a snowmachine (snowmobile) next to a little shack that I think is usually used in the summer for fishing, but I didn't ask. The men had just shot off a flare and were waving their arms.
So anyway, we circled around, dropped down real low, and waved to them. They were waving their gas can... either they ran out of gas or it was just something bright colored to wave, I don't know which. The pilot called on the radio for them to send the State Troopers. We circled around again, tipped our wings back and forth at them, and continued on.
The whole thing made an otherwise routine (and extra slow, we had a 40 knot headwind the whole way, according to the pilot) trip a little more interesting. I couldn't fall back asleep afterwards.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Silly. Bizarre. RiDONKulous.
Saw this link on The One and Only Chickscum's website and just don't get it. Apparently the state of Virginia (or at least one dude in said state) might like to, indeed, employ fashion police. Some legislator introduced a bill that would make it illegal to wear pants with your underwear showing.
I find that particular fashion statement to be fairly useless and impractical, but is it really legislation-worthy? I thought the fact that wearing pants that show your underwear prevents you from being taken seriously in the job market would be enough to eventually sway most people from this ill-advised fashion trend. And even if this is not the case, is this really a good use of a lawmaker's time and energy? Jesucristo, the taxpayers in his state are paying this guy to make real laws, not try to ban fashion trends that annoy people.
In the spirit of Draconican Fashion Police Virginia State Legislator Man, the following is a list of fashion trends that I have decided I do not personally care for. Some of these fashion crimes I have fallen victim to over the years, but I have seen the error of my ways. Hey, if this guy can ban saggy pants because they annoy him, why can't I do the same? I will be submitting a laundry list (pun unintended, but recognized and not deleted) of fashion trends that I expect to be banned by the Alaska state legislature this session. Please call your legistlator and ask that he/she do the same.
Fashion Trends to be Banned Under the So-Called "Sara's Law"
1. Kulats (culats? koo-lats? *shrugs*) or however the hell you spell them. If you want to wear a skirt, wear a skirt. If you want to wear shorts, wear shorts. Splitting the difference is in no one's best interest.
2. Those shirts that have fake vests sewn onto ONLY the front. Sew a fake vest back onto them and they'll be fine. I just don't like the lack of consistency in having a fake vest in front and not in back.
3. Cowboy boots on anyone who doesn't own a single farm animal unless he/she is wearing them as an ironic statement.
4. FUBU on white people.
5. Mullets, unless they are amusing to me personally. Most are just sad, though, so special permission will have to be granted through the state Department of Things That Piss Sara Off.
There are more. Many more. Please see me if you have a question about a specific fashion trend.
I find that particular fashion statement to be fairly useless and impractical, but is it really legislation-worthy? I thought the fact that wearing pants that show your underwear prevents you from being taken seriously in the job market would be enough to eventually sway most people from this ill-advised fashion trend. And even if this is not the case, is this really a good use of a lawmaker's time and energy? Jesucristo, the taxpayers in his state are paying this guy to make real laws, not try to ban fashion trends that annoy people.
In the spirit of Draconican Fashion Police Virginia State Legislator Man, the following is a list of fashion trends that I have decided I do not personally care for. Some of these fashion crimes I have fallen victim to over the years, but I have seen the error of my ways. Hey, if this guy can ban saggy pants because they annoy him, why can't I do the same? I will be submitting a laundry list (pun unintended, but recognized and not deleted) of fashion trends that I expect to be banned by the Alaska state legislature this session. Please call your legistlator and ask that he/she do the same.
1. Kulats (culats? koo-lats? *shrugs*) or however the hell you spell them. If you want to wear a skirt, wear a skirt. If you want to wear shorts, wear shorts. Splitting the difference is in no one's best interest.
2. Those shirts that have fake vests sewn onto ONLY the front. Sew a fake vest back onto them and they'll be fine. I just don't like the lack of consistency in having a fake vest in front and not in back.
3. Cowboy boots on anyone who doesn't own a single farm animal unless he/she is wearing them as an ironic statement.
4. FUBU on white people.
5. Mullets, unless they are amusing to me personally. Most are just sad, though, so special permission will have to be granted through the state Department of Things That Piss Sara Off.
There are more. Many more. Please see me if you have a question about a specific fashion trend.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Just Gotta Share
I figure since I exposed you guys to the worst of Quinhagak (the massive-by-village-standards dope bust), I'll keep you informed of the good, as well.
A group of junior high students competed in the district's science fair, and won it. The requirements for the project were to combin native knowledge and culture with modern scientific techniques. They won the district contest, and went on to the state competition. They won! Their project was hella-cool, I have to admit. They built a miniature model of a traditional Yup'ik sod home, as well as a miniature model of a frame house (with insulation and everything), then compared heat retention in both houses. The sod house won out, but not by much.
And on a somewhat unrelated note, I'm watching ABC, waiting for the AK news to come on because our students were interviewed, and the show Wife Swap is on. Bear in mind that this is not something I would EVER watch under any other circumstances. Anyway, this one mother is ranting and raving at a lesbian couple, saying that they are immoral and... what was her word... oh right, depraved for allowing themselves to be near her children. Now, I like guys as much as the next straight gal, but to call someone depraved to his/her face?! Just for their sexual preference?! These were the least in-your-face lesbians ever! Sheesh, I know straight girls who are more butch than these women were. There are some nasty people I will just never understand and who, quite frankly, I have no desire to understand. Maybe that makes me closed-minded, I don't know.
Anyway, yay for Quinhagak science fair participants, boo for bigoted scary bible-thumping bitches who couldn't be any less Christian-acting if they tried, and yay again for flush plumbing and bathtubs.
A group of junior high students competed in the district's science fair, and won it. The requirements for the project were to combin native knowledge and culture with modern scientific techniques. They won the district contest, and went on to the state competition. They won! Their project was hella-cool, I have to admit. They built a miniature model of a traditional Yup'ik sod home, as well as a miniature model of a frame house (with insulation and everything), then compared heat retention in both houses. The sod house won out, but not by much.
And on a somewhat unrelated note, I'm watching ABC, waiting for the AK news to come on because our students were interviewed, and the show Wife Swap is on. Bear in mind that this is not something I would EVER watch under any other circumstances. Anyway, this one mother is ranting and raving at a lesbian couple, saying that they are immoral and... what was her word... oh right, depraved for allowing themselves to be near her children. Now, I like guys as much as the next straight gal, but to call someone depraved to his/her face?! Just for their sexual preference?! These were the least in-your-face lesbians ever! Sheesh, I know straight girls who are more butch than these women were. There are some nasty people I will just never understand and who, quite frankly, I have no desire to understand. Maybe that makes me closed-minded, I don't know.
Anyway, yay for Quinhagak science fair participants, boo for bigoted scary bible-thumping bitches who couldn't be any less Christian-acting if they tried, and yay again for flush plumbing and bathtubs.
Flush Toilets and a Bath
Ah, the simple pleasures.
Seriously, I've been sniffly, sore-throaty sick all week. I'm still feeling a little under the weather, but MUCH better since I took a nice long, bath with eucalyptis bubble bath. I just went out at lunch to get some bubble bath, but saw that it said "For the Cold Season" on it. It might be (probably is) just a placebo effect, but I really felt a lot better afterwards.
Going to dinner soon with the one non-school person I know in the state of Alaska. Should be fun. I will drink beer. It will be good.
And with that, I'm off!
Seriously, I've been sniffly, sore-throaty sick all week. I'm still feeling a little under the weather, but MUCH better since I took a nice long, bath with eucalyptis bubble bath. I just went out at lunch to get some bubble bath, but saw that it said "For the Cold Season" on it. It might be (probably is) just a placebo effect, but I really felt a lot better afterwards.
Going to dinner soon with the one non-school person I know in the state of Alaska. Should be fun. I will drink beer. It will be good.
And with that, I'm off!
Monday, February 07, 2005
Bitching and Moaning
Stupid runny nose has settled in my throat and chest.
Stupid weather is being nasty, hope I can get out of the village tomorrow to go to Anchorage.
Stupid water plant is having issues so we've been in "water conservation mode" for the past few days. No laundry, no showering because they couldn't fill our water tanks and we didn't want to run out. I'm showering at the school today.
Stupid stupid stupid stupid.
*Raging bitch mode off*
Stupid weather is being nasty, hope I can get out of the village tomorrow to go to Anchorage.
Stupid water plant is having issues so we've been in "water conservation mode" for the past few days. No laundry, no showering because they couldn't fill our water tanks and we didn't want to run out. I'm showering at the school today.
Stupid stupid stupid stupid.
*Raging bitch mode off*
Thursday, February 03, 2005
I'm About Due for a Honey Bucket Post
The usual warning when it comes to honey bucket posts: if poop and pee talk offends you, stop. Then again, if poop and pee talk really, truly offends you, we probably have little in common... and we know for sure that you're not a primary school teacher.
Let me tell you... you want to stay humble? Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground? For one week, personally dispose of your own wastes.
So my roommate and I were having a very high-minded conversation about race relations and other such lofty things. It was a very intellectually stimulating conversation and I was thinking, "Wow, we really are smart people, Roomie and I." Just then, I realized that tonight was my night on honey bucket dumping duty. So there I was, with my almost-complete masters degree, fresh out of a spirited conversation on race expectations in various parts of the United States, dumping a tied-off plastic bag of pee and anuq out of a ten-gallon pail into a small dumpster already containing a few of my neighbors' tied-off bags in the freezing darkness. Talk about a return to the real world.
It does serve as a reminder that people are, in the end, nothing but big poop machines.
Let me tell you... you want to stay humble? Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground? For one week, personally dispose of your own wastes.
So my roommate and I were having a very high-minded conversation about race relations and other such lofty things. It was a very intellectually stimulating conversation and I was thinking, "Wow, we really are smart people, Roomie and I." Just then, I realized that tonight was my night on honey bucket dumping duty. So there I was, with my almost-complete masters degree, fresh out of a spirited conversation on race expectations in various parts of the United States, dumping a tied-off plastic bag of pee and anuq out of a ten-gallon pail into a small dumpster already containing a few of my neighbors' tied-off bags in the freezing darkness. Talk about a return to the real world.
It does serve as a reminder that people are, in the end, nothing but big poop machines.
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