3 Great Things About My First Week Off

Cutest pic ever (source)

I've been out of school for about a week and a half, and let me just say, that it has not been dull. Yes, I get to sleep past 5 am (thank you!!!), but I've actually done a lot so far.

1. I got sunburned at Erin Hills. I know this in itself isn't good, but getting sunburned at Erin Hills means I got to go to one of the US Open practice days, spend time with my dad, and enjoy several hours in the sun. I've never been to a golf tournament before, so it was really cool to be immersed in that experience. The course was beautiful, with Holy Hill peaking above the trees in the distance. I can also see why people like to golf (you get to be outside for hours, ride golf carts, wear cute outfits, and enjoy nice weather), and why it's special to actually be at a tournament, rather than watching it on TV. The sunburn sucked, and now it's a really weird looking tan, but definitely worth it! Big thanks to my dad for taking me!

Me at my favorite place-- the Merch Tent (pre-sunburn obviously)

2. I spent time with my grandpas for their birthdays. My grandpas share the same birthday four years apart, which is super awesome. I got to spend time with both of them last week, which probably wouldn't have been possible if I was still in school. I love talking to my grandpas about their lives and childhoods. As I get older, I value my time with them so much more, and am grateful they are both here with me today.

3. I'm planning a trip to Europe!!! The first weekend after school let out, a couple teacher friends and I got together and planned a two week trip to Europe for August! I am so excited-- we're going to the Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic and Austria.

3 Things I Learned This Year

I finished my second year teaching! Though this school year was challenging, I think back at all of the opportunities I've been given and the connections I've made, and feel satisfied.

Last year was a whirlwind-- it was stressful, exhausting, exhilarating, and fun. I honestly remember very little from last year, though, other than frantically making (and changing) lesson plans every night and weekend. It was so much work, but ultimately I feel accomplished as a teacher.

I've learned so much over the last two years, but because this year actually didn't feel like I was constantly in the middle of a tornado, I feel that I can reflect on this year with much more clarity.

Below are three things that I've learned in my second year teaching at Central--

1. I sought out like-minded educators in the building. My first year teaching was so overwhelming that I didn't get to be as social as I would have liked. However, with a year under my belt, and more confidence, I found some people who have similar mindsets and passions, which has made my experience here so much better. They inspire me to be better and remind me why I became a teacher.

2. I said YES to new opportunities. I was definitely a "yes" person this year, and I'm really really happy I did it. First, I said YES to co-advising National Honor Society, then I joined a few book studies, and took COMP training. I said OMG YES to several Professional Development Travel opportunities that changed my life. And finally, I said YES to teaching an AP class next school year. Though some people advise against saying yes to too much, I am so happy I did. My students also pushed me to try new things. I worked on making curriculum more relevant to students, and will continue to do so. Ultimately, I became a teacher to educate students, and I hope that all of the opportunities I take advantage of will help me be a better one.

3. I took care of myself. After my stressful first year (everyone's is stressful, right?), I wanted to make sure that I got some "me" time this school year also. I am a history nerd through and through, so my idea of a good read for pleasure is something like Guns, Germs and Steel. I tried to read for pleasure more this school year, and also make time to watch my fave reality shows once in a while. I also spent a lot more time with my family, which is awesome when you're an adult! Don't tell them, but my parents are actually pretty cool.

All in all, I am pleased with year two at Central High School, and though I don't want summer to go by too fast, I am looking forward to the new challenges and opportunities that next year brings!

3 Good Things Outside of School

Last week was a very difficult one in my personal life. School stress, for the first time, took a backseat to life stress. However, school didn't disappear-- it's responsibilities remained, the school year was coming to a close, but not before it ramped up to the busiest time of the entire year.

I started this blog as a way to remind myself how wonderfully inspiring and challenging it is to be a teacher. Those three things reminded me that each day is filled with good-- as is each student who sits in my classroom. But when my life at home took a downturn, I had to turn my positive focus to that. I have to remind myself of the beautiful, unique and formidable my own life is.

1. I bought a bike! It's exactly what I wanted, including the price. I bought an almost-new Electra Townie from a rummage sale, and I couldn't be happier with it. I've taken it on a few rides already, and am loving it. The only problem is where I'm going to store it. I don't want to keep it at my parents' house full-time, but I'm not sure where I can put it in my apartment. #nogarageproblems

2. I got my state park pass for 2017 (and was able to remove all traces of my old one on my windshield). One thing I've committed to doing more is taking advantage of all the beauty Wisconsin has to offer. So many people seem to think Wisco is a boring state, but it's actually pretty amazing, if you're willing to see the beauty. So far, I went to Point Beach State Park, but am planning on going somewhere this weekend-- possibly my trusty Lapham Peak or Pike's Lake, but perhaps Lions Den Gorge. Either way, I can't wait to spend more time off the couch, out of the classroom, and in nature.

3. I bought like 5 books for AP World History (School-related, I know, but I'm just so excited #nerd). I'm teaching AP World History next year, and am super super excited about it. I can't wait to challenge myself and students to be better and learn more. This is really nerdy, but I would like to write the entire year's curriculum by the end of the summer, and I think I can do it!