Showing posts with label School. Show all posts
Showing posts with label School. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Pictures
The links are to the connecting blog posts. I know you can scroll down but still...
Pictures from graduation and last week stuff.
Pics from Boseong
Catching up
This is most likely going to be a long post. Pictures might or might not appear, we'll see how I feel about it.
Ok, graduation first. Which was like, a month ago, if not longer.
This year we has 12 graduates which to date is the largest graduating class of SCS (last year we had one graduate and the year before three). The night of graduation the parents took the teachers out to a nice dinner with the kids. It was fun to just sit and hang out with the kids. But then when is it not?? Then back to school for the actual graduation. The kids were running around getting last second things done, several had to tweak their senior testimonies. Some were rewriting them all together. One kid even asked me "What do I say?" I told him that I was not writing his Sr.Testimony for him and that he had had several weeks to work on it. He did get it done tho.
Graduation itself was good. Steve's testimony was funny, in it he thanked me for my uncontitional love and support then said "...and I am sure that you will find the perfect man." I managed not to cry until the end when people were taking picturesand stuff. I had one of the Korean teachers translate something for me when I went to talk to Max' mum. I started crying then and almost was under control when she hugged me. She was crying when she hugged me and it made it worse. Then Max came over and hugged us both which made me cry more.
The last week of school was exams and the last day was a cleaning/awards day. At the end of the awards chapel the kids all gave me cards and made me cry. It's nice to know that I am loved and will be missed.
Then the last few days were just making sure things were in order. I got school stuff done and did that last minute shopping for things I wanted. actually, for three days Holly Jessica and I went down to the south where they grow the green tea (thats another post). I got most of my stuff done and what I did not finish Merilee was so incredibly sweet to finish for me.
Going to the airport was ok. Again, Merilee was sweet and came with me. I stuck the cat in his carrier and he cried for the entire twoish hour trip to the airport. I was kinda concerend but by the time we got there he had settled down. Max, Angelina and Ronnie came to see me at the airport which was nice. Angelina gave me a sweet note and some pictures. Then it was time to go through security. I cried a little as I went through but quickly composed myself. The flight itself was good, the cat was quiet for the most part, only having a minor crisis for about an hour about two-thirds of the way through the flight. There were no accidents for the duration of the entire trip thankfully. Thanks to those of you who prayed. We made it to MN and shortly after getting home went to bed. The cat is still getting used to the house, just a moment ago actually he came all the way up the stairs and into the dining room. He's ok tho and happy to stay in the basement for the most part. He and the dog have not had too much interaction so there's nothing to tell in that area.
Things have been super busy here; since getting here I've had much to do. During the times I'm not looking online at jobs and cars I've gone and renewed my liscence, gotten a cell phone (it's pretty and purple and stuff!!), and spent too much money on essentials like shampoo, a new hair dryer and the like.
I'm looking in the Chicago and Greenville areas for jobs and have applied online at several places in both locations. I have a great lead on a car that I am hoping to get tonight or tomorrow and after that I am hoping to head to Chicago and get a better feel for the area when it comes to jobs. So we'll see what God has in mind.
Ok, graduation first. Which was like, a month ago, if not longer.
This year we has 12 graduates which to date is the largest graduating class of SCS (last year we had one graduate and the year before three). The night of graduation the parents took the teachers out to a nice dinner with the kids. It was fun to just sit and hang out with the kids. But then when is it not?? Then back to school for the actual graduation. The kids were running around getting last second things done, several had to tweak their senior testimonies. Some were rewriting them all together. One kid even asked me "What do I say?" I told him that I was not writing his Sr.Testimony for him and that he had had several weeks to work on it. He did get it done tho.
Graduation itself was good. Steve's testimony was funny, in it he thanked me for my uncontitional love and support then said "...and I am sure that you will find the perfect man." I managed not to cry until the end when people were taking picturesand stuff. I had one of the Korean teachers translate something for me when I went to talk to Max' mum. I started crying then and almost was under control when she hugged me. She was crying when she hugged me and it made it worse. Then Max came over and hugged us both which made me cry more.
The last week of school was exams and the last day was a cleaning/awards day. At the end of the awards chapel the kids all gave me cards and made me cry. It's nice to know that I am loved and will be missed.
Then the last few days were just making sure things were in order. I got school stuff done and did that last minute shopping for things I wanted. actually, for three days Holly Jessica and I went down to the south where they grow the green tea (thats another post). I got most of my stuff done and what I did not finish Merilee was so incredibly sweet to finish for me.
Going to the airport was ok. Again, Merilee was sweet and came with me. I stuck the cat in his carrier and he cried for the entire twoish hour trip to the airport. I was kinda concerend but by the time we got there he had settled down. Max, Angelina and Ronnie came to see me at the airport which was nice. Angelina gave me a sweet note and some pictures. Then it was time to go through security. I cried a little as I went through but quickly composed myself. The flight itself was good, the cat was quiet for the most part, only having a minor crisis for about an hour about two-thirds of the way through the flight. There were no accidents for the duration of the entire trip thankfully. Thanks to those of you who prayed. We made it to MN and shortly after getting home went to bed. The cat is still getting used to the house, just a moment ago actually he came all the way up the stairs and into the dining room. He's ok tho and happy to stay in the basement for the most part. He and the dog have not had too much interaction so there's nothing to tell in that area.
Things have been super busy here; since getting here I've had much to do. During the times I'm not looking online at jobs and cars I've gone and renewed my liscence, gotten a cell phone (it's pretty and purple and stuff!!), and spent too much money on essentials like shampoo, a new hair dryer and the like.
I'm looking in the Chicago and Greenville areas for jobs and have applied online at several places in both locations. I have a great lead on a car that I am hoping to get tonight or tomorrow and after that I am hoping to head to Chicago and get a better feel for the area when it comes to jobs. So we'll see what God has in mind.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
How to make Joanna cry.
As stated before I hate crying. Always have. As a small child I'd hide whenever I cried. The teachers are singing for graduation and I'm not sure I'm going to make it through the song.
The words (if you can't hear the music):
The words (if you can't hear the music):
Make My Life an Alleluia
Make my life an alleluia,
A song of praise to You each day.
To proclaim Your grace and glory,
Fill my heart with Your praise, I pray.
When I stand at the mountaintop, or the valley of despair,
This will be my cry, my song, my prayer;
Lord make my life an alleluia.
Make my life an alleluia,
A gift of love to You, my King.
I will join with all creation
In the song that the heavens sing!
The earth will turn, and the planets spin,
As the seasons ebb and flow;
Still Your grace surrounds me as I go,
Lord, make my life an alleluia.
Make my life an alleluia,
This off'ring of myself I give to You.
I will share Your grace and mercy
For as long as I shall live.
When I come to my journey's end,
May those left behind be reminded,
This has been my cry, my song, my prayer;
Lord make my life an alleluia.
A song of praise to You each day.
To proclaim Your grace and glory,
Fill my heart with Your praise, I pray.
When I stand at the mountaintop, or the valley of despair,
This will be my cry, my song, my prayer;
Lord make my life an alleluia.
Make my life an alleluia,
A gift of love to You, my King.
I will join with all creation
In the song that the heavens sing!
The earth will turn, and the planets spin,
As the seasons ebb and flow;
Still Your grace surrounds me as I go,
Lord, make my life an alleluia.
Make my life an alleluia,
This off'ring of myself I give to You.
I will share Your grace and mercy
For as long as I shall live.
When I come to my journey's end,
May those left behind be reminded,
This has been my cry, my song, my prayer;
Lord make my life an alleluia.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Last Month
We are now in May and are in the last month of school. I know it's cliche to say that time flies but it's true! This year has gone by soooo fast! It also does not seem like I've been in Korea for three years.
The emotions of leaving Korea are as of now gone; I'm becoming more and more glad to leave the more I get used to the idea. There are just some things..... But I know the last day of school is going to be hard. It's ok tho, I'll make it.
I'm looking around for jobs in the US online and it's kinda depressing actually. Having no marketable skill rots ya know? So I'm looking at going back to school for photography. I love love love taking pictures and think it'd be a fun carer. Right now I'm looking at going back to Greenville but not BJU, rather Greenville Tech or other such schools. I have a place to live and some possible job opportunities. I am also going to look around Minneapolis and Chicago when I'm in those locations for the summer. The biggest thing is obviously going to be the job. Just gotta see what God wants ya know? Doing photography would be an investment but I think a worthwhile one.
My boys are indeed going to BJ in the fall (I'm pretty sure). Max is planning on doing Pre-Med and Steve (I think) is going to do Health Fitness and Recreation. Jesse is still unsure what to major in. Max and Jesse are still trying to figure out things financially. All three of them are taking the TOFEL test on the 9th and are nervous about that. I told them not to worry, they are smaet boys and all have pretty good English. Jesse's cute: he's worried about his proununcation but I told him that living in the US will fix that pretty quickly. It would be neat to be in Greenville with them this fall. But again, gotta see what the Lord has in mind.
Job job job....pray pray pray....
Sigh.
The emotions of leaving Korea are as of now gone; I'm becoming more and more glad to leave the more I get used to the idea. There are just some things..... But I know the last day of school is going to be hard. It's ok tho, I'll make it.
I'm looking around for jobs in the US online and it's kinda depressing actually. Having no marketable skill rots ya know? So I'm looking at going back to school for photography. I love love love taking pictures and think it'd be a fun carer. Right now I'm looking at going back to Greenville but not BJU, rather Greenville Tech or other such schools. I have a place to live and some possible job opportunities. I am also going to look around Minneapolis and Chicago when I'm in those locations for the summer. The biggest thing is obviously going to be the job. Just gotta see what God wants ya know? Doing photography would be an investment but I think a worthwhile one.
My boys are indeed going to BJ in the fall (I'm pretty sure). Max is planning on doing Pre-Med and Steve (I think) is going to do Health Fitness and Recreation. Jesse is still unsure what to major in. Max and Jesse are still trying to figure out things financially. All three of them are taking the TOFEL test on the 9th and are nervous about that. I told them not to worry, they are smaet boys and all have pretty good English. Jesse's cute: he's worried about his proununcation but I told him that living in the US will fix that pretty quickly. It would be neat to be in Greenville with them this fall. But again, gotta see what the Lord has in mind.
Job job job....pray pray pray....
Sigh.
Friday, April 24, 2009
For it is God...
These past weeks have been busy, we are in the home stretch of classes. Monday starts the last half of the last quarter.
Some of you know this already and others don't so please bear with me if you are already "in the know".
Thursday I got a note in my box asking me to meet with the admin for a conference after school. The short of it is that, for reasons that I am unable go into, nor do I care to detail, they are not going to renew my contract next year. Apparently my principal was wanting to keep me, which I am happy about. I had only given them a verbal yes, nothing as of yet had been signed. So as of this moment I shall be returning to the US permanently this June. They are being more than generous with me, paying for extra luggage and for me to get the cat back as well as other things.
To be honest this is rather a relief; I see myself moving in such a direction that I was not sure if I was going to be able to fully support the school next year and was foreseeing a rather uncomfortable at the least year starting in the fall. The only reason I was going to stay was for my boys (more on them in a second). There are no hard feelings on my end and it seems that there are none on theirs as well so thus far all is good.
I have lots ahead of me; obviously I am going to need a job and other such minor things. I would settle for a rich husband if push came to shove....Thankfully I will be debt free when I get back to the US and have a little cash on hand, maybe enough for a down payment on a car. It's just the job thing that has me curious; I don't have a marketable skill (I did not major in teaching) and with the economy the way it is...but hey, God'd not get me outta this job if He did not already have one for me is my thinking. Still, I am apprehensively curious. If you're wondering, I'm looking to settle in the Chicago area but am really open to anything.
Thankfully since finding out about this whole thing I've managed to keep the emotions in check (I dread the last day of school; I hate hate hate crying). I cried a little yesterday and this morning as well. Lots of breathing through the nose and soon things were back to normal. The worst of the crying was when I had to tell my chemistry class. I had told my boys during homeroom and teared up a little then. They were quite upset when I told them, and after making sure I was not teasing them set about trying how to figure out what to do about next year. Earlier in the year when I was still unsure about staying they had said if I did not come back they would not. They were serious, as soon as first hour was over Max and Steve went to the office to see about early graduation (they were thinking of doing their senior year over the summer). Mrs. Johnson came to the room at the end of the day to tell them that both boys had enough credits to graduate this school year!! She is going to check on Jesse's credits and see if she can't get him graduated also. They are too late to get into state schools but she said getting into a Christian school should not be hard. Max was already kind of interested in Bob Jones but the money is the issue (as it is with all of them really). So they are going to be thinking and praying over the weekend and maybe starting college in the fall!! Please especially pray for Max, he really does want to go to BJ but right now can't afford it. If I understand the way visas work he has to have all the money (tuition/room and board) in hand before they will grant him the visa. That's quite a bit of money and with the exchange rate and all it's more. In most cases it's too late for scholarships but he and I are looking to see what we can find. Please please pray that he can get the money! If God wants him there He'll provide but hey, no harm in asking for prayer right??? I'm really clinging to Phil 2:13 right now and have said it to the kids a few times already.
Life is gonna be interesting for the next while!!
Some of you know this already and others don't so please bear with me if you are already "in the know".
Thursday I got a note in my box asking me to meet with the admin for a conference after school. The short of it is that, for reasons that I am unable go into, nor do I care to detail, they are not going to renew my contract next year. Apparently my principal was wanting to keep me, which I am happy about. I had only given them a verbal yes, nothing as of yet had been signed. So as of this moment I shall be returning to the US permanently this June. They are being more than generous with me, paying for extra luggage and for me to get the cat back as well as other things.
To be honest this is rather a relief; I see myself moving in such a direction that I was not sure if I was going to be able to fully support the school next year and was foreseeing a rather uncomfortable at the least year starting in the fall. The only reason I was going to stay was for my boys (more on them in a second). There are no hard feelings on my end and it seems that there are none on theirs as well so thus far all is good.
I have lots ahead of me; obviously I am going to need a job and other such minor things. I would settle for a rich husband if push came to shove....Thankfully I will be debt free when I get back to the US and have a little cash on hand, maybe enough for a down payment on a car. It's just the job thing that has me curious; I don't have a marketable skill (I did not major in teaching) and with the economy the way it is...but hey, God'd not get me outta this job if He did not already have one for me is my thinking. Still, I am apprehensively curious. If you're wondering, I'm looking to settle in the Chicago area but am really open to anything.
Thankfully since finding out about this whole thing I've managed to keep the emotions in check (I dread the last day of school; I hate hate hate crying). I cried a little yesterday and this morning as well. Lots of breathing through the nose and soon things were back to normal. The worst of the crying was when I had to tell my chemistry class. I had told my boys during homeroom and teared up a little then. They were quite upset when I told them, and after making sure I was not teasing them set about trying how to figure out what to do about next year. Earlier in the year when I was still unsure about staying they had said if I did not come back they would not. They were serious, as soon as first hour was over Max and Steve went to the office to see about early graduation (they were thinking of doing their senior year over the summer). Mrs. Johnson came to the room at the end of the day to tell them that both boys had enough credits to graduate this school year!! She is going to check on Jesse's credits and see if she can't get him graduated also. They are too late to get into state schools but she said getting into a Christian school should not be hard. Max was already kind of interested in Bob Jones but the money is the issue (as it is with all of them really). So they are going to be thinking and praying over the weekend and maybe starting college in the fall!! Please especially pray for Max, he really does want to go to BJ but right now can't afford it. If I understand the way visas work he has to have all the money (tuition/room and board) in hand before they will grant him the visa. That's quite a bit of money and with the exchange rate and all it's more. In most cases it's too late for scholarships but he and I are looking to see what we can find. Please please pray that he can get the money! If God wants him there He'll provide but hey, no harm in asking for prayer right??? I'm really clinging to Phil 2:13 right now and have said it to the kids a few times already.
"For it is God who worketh in you both to do and to will His good pleasure."
Life is gonna be interesting for the next while!!
Friday, April 03, 2009
Spring Break!
Finally! Spring break. My plans are sleep, clean, sleep, maybe shop (I need a few groceries), sleep, watch CSI, sleep, read and sleep. Thankfully the cleaning is fairly minimal, I just have one room thats a disaster. The other two are just a teensy bit cluttered. I'm thinking a day tops to get it all done.
Today instead of having the usual half-day stuff the upper grades went to play paintball. I am not a fan of paintball but knew I'd enjoy watching. And I did. The kids were not too thrilled about it at first but when it was all said and done they declared the day a success. There is talk of doing it again next year. Below are a few pictures from the day.
Today instead of having the usual half-day stuff the upper grades went to play paintball. I am not a fan of paintball but knew I'd enjoy watching. And I did. The kids were not too thrilled about it at first but when it was all said and done they declared the day a success. There is talk of doing it again next year. Below are a few pictures from the day.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Things Hobbits get for birthdays
In no particular order:
Monies in gift certificate form (to be turned into CDs or used at the appropriate restaurant)
DVD sets
Coffee (lots!!)
Things for nail art
Golden calf
Jewelry
Popsicle molds and other kitchen-y things
Books
Other things that are not being called to mind at the top of my head. Apparently I have other boxen coming from the States so the party is going to be extended!!
The birthday day itself was fun. Church (which I was mostly dead for not having slept well the two preceding nights) then later in the afternoon dinner at an Italian restaurant. Jess and I ran around a bit after dinner then we walked home; I had to finish my grades.
We are now in the last quarter of the year. Spring break starts next week!! I'm not doing anything but sleeping and cleaning (theoretically).
Um...that's really it. I gotta go back to cleaning now. And I need to write a test eventually....
Monies in gift certificate form (to be turned into CDs or used at the appropriate restaurant)
DVD sets
Coffee (lots!!)
Things for nail art
Golden calf
Jewelry
Popsicle molds and other kitchen-y things
Books
Other things that are not being called to mind at the top of my head. Apparently I have other boxen coming from the States so the party is going to be extended!!
The birthday day itself was fun. Church (which I was mostly dead for not having slept well the two preceding nights) then later in the afternoon dinner at an Italian restaurant. Jess and I ran around a bit after dinner then we walked home; I had to finish my grades.
We are now in the last quarter of the year. Spring break starts next week!! I'm not doing anything but sleeping and cleaning (theoretically).
Um...that's really it. I gotta go back to cleaning now. And I need to write a test eventually....
Friday, March 13, 2009
Ouchie!
Life as always is busy. I think I've averaged three tests a week over the last month. This week alone had 4 and I'm giving another 3 next week. And I'm getting a St. Patrick's Day....something ready for the kids at school. I copied and laminated over 200 shamrocks and other such Irish emblems last week. I gave the kids team points (The school is divided into 4 teams which gain and lose points over the year. Winning team gets a trip or something.) for cutting out all those things. Each had to be cut out twice; once from the initial printouts and again from the laminate. Everything got done in two days. Maybe three. That's just school stuff off the top of my head. We had a day off at the beginning of the month and I'm already ready for spring break. I was going to try to go to China but can't swing it financially. Speaking of money, I read somewhere that the won/dollar rate is supposed to adjust. Or at least go back to the 1,300 won/$1 that had been holding steady for a greater portion of the school year. Guess as long it's not going to go to the 1,800 people were predicting I can deal.
For the last six weeks or so I've had bad wrist pain off and on. Seeing as I am on the computer on a regular basis I was getting concerned that it might be carpal tunnel but reading up on it maybe not. However (comma) I'm thinking that it might be tendonitis. And the only thing I can do with that is what I have been doing; pain killers and a wrist bandage. And of course it has to be my left hand making writing and eating difficult.
Last night several of us went to see Madame Butterfly. It was nice tho I was very tired the whole time (I've been going to bed late this week. Bad Joanna.) Yay for weekends and sleep!
For the last six weeks or so I've had bad wrist pain off and on. Seeing as I am on the computer on a regular basis I was getting concerned that it might be carpal tunnel but reading up on it maybe not. However (comma) I'm thinking that it might be tendonitis. And the only thing I can do with that is what I have been doing; pain killers and a wrist bandage. And of course it has to be my left hand making writing and eating difficult.
Last night several of us went to see Madame Butterfly. It was nice tho I was very tired the whole time (I've been going to bed late this week. Bad Joanna.) Yay for weekends and sleep!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Max
I've mentioned Max on here several times before. He's been in my homeroom class for the last two years and is one of "my" boys.
Max is a very smart young man. He has been greatly blessed by God in the area of intellect. Lately he has started showing a bit of the pride issue that often accompanies such a gift.
For some reason Max listens to me. I really have no idea. I'm not looking for affirmation here. I just really don't know! I've read several of his assignments from other classes and there are things in them that I know came from me. In several cases I know exactly when the conversation took place. Thats ok, it just makes me go "EEK!" and makes me even more mindful of what I talk to him about. I remember being his age and lots of my ideas and opinions were those of my authorities, he's going through the same thing. Which is fine, I just need to make sure what I tell him is truly Biblical. Anyway, I say all that to show that for some reason God has given me Max to maybe help him in some areas. I'm hoping to be able to talk to him and encourage him in the area of his intellect and pride. To show him the difference between taking pride in your work and in being prideful in the abilities God has given you. Because of the way my schedule works I don't see this conversation taking place before next Thursday but I do ask that you pray that I do have the ability to talk to him and that I will say the right kinds of things and that he will listen. We kind of started the conversation this morning but it was during homeroom and the other kids were about to come in for Chemistry so we did not get very far.
I remember my parents having to talk to Benjamin (and currently Joshua) about the way they deal with their God-given abilities. I'm hoping to be able to encourage Max using some of the same things my parents said to my brothers. When it happens I'll let you know how it goes. Maybe God put me in Max's life to have this conversation. Maybe not. I don't want to seem like I think I'm the only one who will have any influence in the kids life but I do have to acknowledge that he does indeed seem to listen to me more which ought to make me very mindful of what I tell him.
Max is a very smart young man. He has been greatly blessed by God in the area of intellect. Lately he has started showing a bit of the pride issue that often accompanies such a gift.
For some reason Max listens to me. I really have no idea. I'm not looking for affirmation here. I just really don't know! I've read several of his assignments from other classes and there are things in them that I know came from me. In several cases I know exactly when the conversation took place. Thats ok, it just makes me go "EEK!" and makes me even more mindful of what I talk to him about. I remember being his age and lots of my ideas and opinions were those of my authorities, he's going through the same thing. Which is fine, I just need to make sure what I tell him is truly Biblical. Anyway, I say all that to show that for some reason God has given me Max to maybe help him in some areas. I'm hoping to be able to talk to him and encourage him in the area of his intellect and pride. To show him the difference between taking pride in your work and in being prideful in the abilities God has given you. Because of the way my schedule works I don't see this conversation taking place before next Thursday but I do ask that you pray that I do have the ability to talk to him and that I will say the right kinds of things and that he will listen. We kind of started the conversation this morning but it was during homeroom and the other kids were about to come in for Chemistry so we did not get very far.
I remember my parents having to talk to Benjamin (and currently Joshua) about the way they deal with their God-given abilities. I'm hoping to be able to encourage Max using some of the same things my parents said to my brothers. When it happens I'll let you know how it goes. Maybe God put me in Max's life to have this conversation. Maybe not. I don't want to seem like I think I'm the only one who will have any influence in the kids life but I do have to acknowledge that he does indeed seem to listen to me more which ought to make me very mindful of what I tell him.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Scary People
So today my second hour French class came in with a story of a guy who was in the office and apparently rather angry. He was the father of a kid in grade 5 and apparently the kid was claiming he had been bullied and the father was....upset. I'm not too clear on the details but it would seem that the kid situation was typical grade six boy antics, nothing too major. Just one of those "Make sure you're not a little punk." events. Well, anyway, the dad...yeh. According to eyewitnesses he was hitting things and they were afraid he was going to hit the secretary (the Johnsons were not there yet). He did apparently hit his wife across the chest at some point (I'm also not clear on the time line). We heard him trying to run up the stairs during second hour but Lisa had locked the doors so he could not get into the actual floors. Daniel and Jason had to physically restrain him at some point as well. Daniel still had some slight red marks on his arm from where the man had grabbed him. Daniel is not small, he's over 6 foot and I'm guessing in the vicinity of 220 lbs. Only a fool would try to attack him. Which this guy apparently was. Eventually the police took the guy away but the school agreed to let him come back at the end of the day (hoping he'd be calm) to see about getting things fixed. Daniel and Jason determined to be in the office when that happened just in case. When Daniel came up around 4:30 he said the father had not calmed down. Apparently he had been pushing things over and other such violence. Tho it seemed that he did not get as personally violent this time. Not sure how it ended, the police were there again when I left. I'm sure I'll know tomorrow. I'll let you know when I know anything. I'm sure Daniel will post something on his blog about it eventually. There's a link over there on the left. No one got majorly hurt which is a blessing. At least not before I had left...
We have Monday off (nothing related to this; March 1st is a holiday so we get the 2nd off this year since the 1st is a Sunday). I am greatly pleased.
We have Monday off (nothing related to this; March 1st is a holiday so we get the 2nd off this year since the 1st is a Sunday). I am greatly pleased.
Friday, February 13, 2009
I Liiiiiiiiive!!
Sorry I've not been posting lately. Things have not really been that interesting. Or, rather there have been interesting things but nothing I can blog about. Let's just say that some people have....interesting....views on things in scripture. For example: Did you know that Esther was out of the will of God when she married whatshisnose and we know this because God is not mentioned in the book? I'll leave it there.
Things have been slow. We dissected frogs in Life Science but it was not as interesting as it was last year. The kids were not as active with their frogs this year as some of them were last year. Ummm...we had some contests on our floor for the kids to get house points but my blessed homeroom boys won't get involved....it's not out of a bad attitude, it's just not their thing. Linda and I are trying to get them involved somehow we just can't think of anything.
Uhmmmm, thats really it. Sorry it's not as exciting as my posts usualy are. There's just nothing to report. It's spring, everything's slow.
It was a rainy/gloomy day today. I liked it. No electric storm tho....mmmm...any other randomness I can tell you to drag this post out with?
OOH! Got an early birthday boxen!! From Rhonda; CSI:NY season 3 (squeee!!), Shrek 2 and other random fun things. Already gone through all of CSI:NY. Time to start back at the begining.
Something else!! You might be interested in this. It's a blog/writing assignment Jessica has the kids in grade 11 and 12 doing for grammar. They are watching "The Question of God" in class on Mondays (I think) and she's having them...well, you can go look at it and see for yourself.
Ok, I'm really done now.
Things have been slow. We dissected frogs in Life Science but it was not as interesting as it was last year. The kids were not as active with their frogs this year as some of them were last year. Ummm...we had some contests on our floor for the kids to get house points but my blessed homeroom boys won't get involved....it's not out of a bad attitude, it's just not their thing. Linda and I are trying to get them involved somehow we just can't think of anything.
Uhmmmm, thats really it. Sorry it's not as exciting as my posts usualy are. There's just nothing to report. It's spring, everything's slow.
It was a rainy/gloomy day today. I liked it. No electric storm tho....mmmm...any other randomness I can tell you to drag this post out with?
OOH! Got an early birthday boxen!! From Rhonda; CSI:NY season 3 (squeee!!), Shrek 2 and other random fun things. Already gone through all of CSI:NY. Time to start back at the begining.
Something else!! You might be interested in this. It's a blog/writing assignment Jessica has the kids in grade 11 and 12 doing for grammar. They are watching "The Question of God" in class on Mondays (I think) and she's having them...well, you can go look at it and see for yourself.
Ok, I'm really done now.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Happy New Year! (almost)
Time for the traditional wishing of the Lunar New Year! We are leaving the Year of the Rat and entering the Year of the Ox so if you are turning a multiple of 12 this year you are an Ox. The actual LNY is Sunday I think, but we have Monday and Tuesday off which makes for a happy me. The teachers actually don't really have plans this year. I'm good with that; I need to clean.
Not too much to report; exams are FINALLY over and graded and all that. The week of exams (second week of Jan) was the coldest week of the year; well below freezing all week, tho not as cold as my parents had it; -25*F!!! The first two days of the week the heat was broken in both my apartment and on the High School floor. The students and teachers wore their jackets and stuff in an attempt to thaw. I would go home and sit in front of my space heater with many clothing layers, blankets and tea and watch movies. I also lived on eggs that week; I had picked some up on the weekend meaning to get more groceries later but it was too cold to go out!! So eggs it was. I'm glad I like eggs. Wednesday the HS was working on Thursday my heat was as well so I was fine. Good thing I don't mind the cold. It had gotten warmer this past week but today it's cold again, but not as bad as it had been.
I made a decision/leap of faith to stay one more year. I do want to see my boys through their last year. They were thrilled. Max suggested that I teach them one class and spend the rest of the day making food for them. I told him Mrs. J might have something to say about that. I think teacher-wise next year's gonna be fun; a friend is most likely going to come teach and she and I will live together if she does. Jessica is staying too which I am happy about. Other than staying for the boys I don't know really how I feel about being here one more year. I mean, something about being here one more year is a little depressing. It's difficult to explain.
OH! I'm down another kilogram! I have a denim jacket that zipped but was a tidge snug; not anymore!!! It's not too big yet but maybe next season...
That's really it. Nothing too exciting. More later maybe after the weekend's over.
Not too much to report; exams are FINALLY over and graded and all that. The week of exams (second week of Jan) was the coldest week of the year; well below freezing all week, tho not as cold as my parents had it; -25*F!!! The first two days of the week the heat was broken in both my apartment and on the High School floor. The students and teachers wore their jackets and stuff in an attempt to thaw. I would go home and sit in front of my space heater with many clothing layers, blankets and tea and watch movies. I also lived on eggs that week; I had picked some up on the weekend meaning to get more groceries later but it was too cold to go out!! So eggs it was. I'm glad I like eggs. Wednesday the HS was working on Thursday my heat was as well so I was fine. Good thing I don't mind the cold. It had gotten warmer this past week but today it's cold again, but not as bad as it had been.
I made a decision/leap of faith to stay one more year. I do want to see my boys through their last year. They were thrilled. Max suggested that I teach them one class and spend the rest of the day making food for them. I told him Mrs. J might have something to say about that. I think teacher-wise next year's gonna be fun; a friend is most likely going to come teach and she and I will live together if she does. Jessica is staying too which I am happy about. Other than staying for the boys I don't know really how I feel about being here one more year. I mean, something about being here one more year is a little depressing. It's difficult to explain.
OH! I'm down another kilogram! I have a denim jacket that zipped but was a tidge snug; not anymore!!! It's not too big yet but maybe next season...
That's really it. Nothing too exciting. More later maybe after the weekend's over.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Stuff 'n' Things
So I'm back home. Or to what amounts as home for now. I left my apartment kind of a mess and have added substantially to it since my return, not quite a week ago. I do not anticipate being able to rectify that until Lunar New Year, at the end of this month.
It's nice to be back to the familiar routine. I really missed my kids. We got two more teachers this semester. Daniel and Charity Moorehead are newlyweds from...I think...Kansas. Charity is Mylinda's sister and the final Pritt sister to come to SCS. There are four Pritt sisters and now all of them have taught here at one time or another. The Pritt girls are quite attractive (the HS boys have all had crushes on Mylinda at some point or another) and poor Charity got all sorts of awed reactions on her first day. I think both Mooreheads will be a good addition to the school. My boys have Daniel for Pre-Calc and they like him so far. The Mooreheads have a blog you might be interested in. I've added it to the "Oriental Blogs" section to the left.
I lost all three of my girls over break. I knew Stacy was leaving (I think our school was a bit too hard for her) and knew Cindy was thinking about it. Stacy never came back from break nor did Rebecca. Cindy's last day was Monday (maybe Tuesday?). I figured that Rebecca would not return if the other two left and I was right. She also is quite involved in music stuff (I know she takes voice lessons and I think violin) and she was wanting to focus more on that than she was able to. So now it's just my three boys and we are getting a new guy sometime after finals. I've not met him but apparently he has been to school in the US his entire life so I'm not too concerned as to how he'll do academically.
I got a cold three days into the week and have been living on Ny/DayQuill and teas. I'm positive that I've ingested more tea in the last three days than I did all 2008; 5 cups yesterday alone. I'm glad I stocked up on it when I was home over break. I still have to write exams and get some grading done, yet all I wanna do is curl up in bed with a book, tea and a cat. Oh well, it is not to be.
Ok, back to writing exams. Hopefully I'll have Chem done by the time I'm supposed to meet Jess to go shopping. I need new gloves and hat as my old ones are getting holes. I am also looking for skirts. Some of my old ones are TOO BIG! (YAY!!) The one I wore yesterday almost fell off a few times. Gotta be careful on those stairs.
Ok, really now; back to Chem. But first, a cup of tea. Rooibos Pomegranate maybe?
It's nice to be back to the familiar routine. I really missed my kids. We got two more teachers this semester. Daniel and Charity Moorehead are newlyweds from...I think...Kansas. Charity is Mylinda's sister and the final Pritt sister to come to SCS. There are four Pritt sisters and now all of them have taught here at one time or another. The Pritt girls are quite attractive (the HS boys have all had crushes on Mylinda at some point or another) and poor Charity got all sorts of awed reactions on her first day. I think both Mooreheads will be a good addition to the school. My boys have Daniel for Pre-Calc and they like him so far. The Mooreheads have a blog you might be interested in. I've added it to the "Oriental Blogs" section to the left.
I lost all three of my girls over break. I knew Stacy was leaving (I think our school was a bit too hard for her) and knew Cindy was thinking about it. Stacy never came back from break nor did Rebecca. Cindy's last day was Monday (maybe Tuesday?). I figured that Rebecca would not return if the other two left and I was right. She also is quite involved in music stuff (I know she takes voice lessons and I think violin) and she was wanting to focus more on that than she was able to. So now it's just my three boys and we are getting a new guy sometime after finals. I've not met him but apparently he has been to school in the US his entire life so I'm not too concerned as to how he'll do academically.
I got a cold three days into the week and have been living on Ny/DayQuill and teas. I'm positive that I've ingested more tea in the last three days than I did all 2008; 5 cups yesterday alone. I'm glad I stocked up on it when I was home over break. I still have to write exams and get some grading done, yet all I wanna do is curl up in bed with a book, tea and a cat. Oh well, it is not to be.
Ok, back to writing exams. Hopefully I'll have Chem done by the time I'm supposed to meet Jess to go shopping. I need new gloves and hat as my old ones are getting holes. I am also looking for skirts. Some of my old ones are TOO BIG! (YAY!!) The one I wore yesterday almost fell off a few times. Gotta be careful on those stairs.
Ok, really now; back to Chem. But first, a cup of tea. Rooibos Pomegranate maybe?
Monday, January 05, 2009
Another post with lots of links (9 to be precise)
As previously mentioned I was in Chicago for New Years. It was much fun. I had missed having conversation that was worth having (more on that later). On Friday Rebecca and I went into downtown Chicago and ended up at the Art Institute of Chicago. We just kinda randomly went in and got more culture than we were expecting. Or at least than I was expecting. I had no idea that I was about to see American Gothic, La Grande Jatte, a Jackson Pollock, or Lilies, or VanGogh or his room or other things. It was cool. I like unexpected things like that. I love that Pollock piece. I hate American Gothic. It's depressing.
I got a new CD in Chicago: Casting Crowns Lifesong. I had heard it before but it had been a while. I forgot how much I loved their songs. Especially "While You Were Sleeping", "Praise You in this Storm" and.....ok, I like them all. I need their other CD now. Not their live one. I'm not sure why artists put live songs on CDs, or why they put out live albums. It's annoying. Not that I have an opinion or anything.
The best part about being in Chicago was the talking. Rebecca picked me up and we went to dinner where her boss joined us. We talked for about an hour or even two over some great pizza. The conversation ranged from tattoos to music to drinking to Bibles to mutual friends. Her boss is on the board of BJU and despite what that might make you think he is a very balanced person. I mean, who do you know that would somehow discover who the top CCM artist was and seek to listen to them? Then when we were talking about them (Skillett, whom I have heard of but never heard) there was no "I can't believe a Christian would listen to that." kind of attitude from him. It was a genuine curiosity as to what is so appealing about them (and others like them) to people. After we left Rebecca and I walked to her place (Itasca, the 'burb where she is, is teeny and charming) and continued the conversation until 1:30am. This time we added such things as Eschatology and if the Kingdom of God is on Earth yet or not. There was lots of talk about the baggage that often comes with being in certain sects (for lack of a better term) of Christianity. I hate that where I currently am I am made to feel that such things as my Church attendance, the music standards I have, books I might read and other superficials determine my spirituality. The Bible says you will know me by my fruit and especially by my love. Not by if I drink, read Harry Potter, wear pants to church, listen to various CCM artists or other stupidity. Total tangent: you ever notice that the World does not judge your Christian-ness based on all that but that many Christians in Fundamental circles do? The World does not care if you claim to be a Christian and drink or don't drink. They wanna see you act like it and Christians sadly don't often act like Christians to one another. I'm tired of being judged. It would be nice if more people were like Chuck (Rebecca's boss), when we were talking there were things it was clear he did not agree with us on but you could tell he was not, in his mind, questioning our spirituality, or worse, our salvation.
Anyway, a guy in Rebecca's church had a New Years Eve thing and she and I went. It was lots of fun (2 Baptists, 7 PCA's/4 lawyers, 2 engineers, 1 teacher, 1....I can't remember what he did, and 1 construction project manager). Again, conversation ranged all over; misconceptions we had as kids, things God did for us in the past, things we were hoping for in the future, things pertaining to the South, music, TV, baggage again...I could keep going. There was lots of laughter. Especially as the night wore on. But again, the conversation is what made it great. It was fun yet saddening; I had more/better Christian fellowship in those seven hours than I have had in the last year. I don't fit the prescribed Christian mold here. I do what I am supposed to do contractually but it's hard not being able to be myself and share opinions and thoughts that I know people will disagree with and we can still go away with respect for the other person. And despite the assurances from some that I am never judged there are times when that is certainly not the case.
I just don't know about next year. There is one thing and one thing only keeping me here: these students are my life right now and I can't imagine leaving them. But another year of the above? I don't know if I can do it. There are times I feel as if I'm going to have a break down. Also, to be dead honest, as much as I blow it off I do indeed want to eventually get married and the fact of the matter is: the likely hood of finding someone here is pretty slim at best. (Don't worry, I'm not going to come back to the States just to find a husband. I do want to get married but it's not a priority yet.) Having students ask me on a weekly basis when I'm getting married does not help matters. Don't get me wrong, being single's cool; I doubt I'd be here if I were married and I know I'd not have have some of the opportunities I've had were I married. It's just...
All of this stuff I've given to God. These are just some things that are in my head about all of it. I'm so glad God is in control!!
Ok, wow, this post took a totally different direction than I was originally going. I've never ever posted anything like this I don't think. Whatever, first time for everything.
I got a new CD in Chicago: Casting Crowns Lifesong. I had heard it before but it had been a while. I forgot how much I loved their songs. Especially "While You Were Sleeping", "Praise You in this Storm" and.....ok, I like them all. I need their other CD now. Not their live one. I'm not sure why artists put live songs on CDs, or why they put out live albums. It's annoying. Not that I have an opinion or anything.
The best part about being in Chicago was the talking. Rebecca picked me up and we went to dinner where her boss joined us. We talked for about an hour or even two over some great pizza. The conversation ranged from tattoos to music to drinking to Bibles to mutual friends. Her boss is on the board of BJU and despite what that might make you think he is a very balanced person. I mean, who do you know that would somehow discover who the top CCM artist was and seek to listen to them? Then when we were talking about them (Skillett, whom I have heard of but never heard) there was no "I can't believe a Christian would listen to that." kind of attitude from him. It was a genuine curiosity as to what is so appealing about them (and others like them) to people. After we left Rebecca and I walked to her place (Itasca, the 'burb where she is, is teeny and charming) and continued the conversation until 1:30am. This time we added such things as Eschatology and if the Kingdom of God is on Earth yet or not. There was lots of talk about the baggage that often comes with being in certain sects (for lack of a better term) of Christianity. I hate that where I currently am I am made to feel that such things as my Church attendance, the music standards I have, books I might read and other superficials determine my spirituality. The Bible says you will know me by my fruit and especially by my love. Not by if I drink, read Harry Potter, wear pants to church, listen to various CCM artists or other stupidity. Total tangent: you ever notice that the World does not judge your Christian-ness based on all that but that many Christians in Fundamental circles do? The World does not care if you claim to be a Christian and drink or don't drink. They wanna see you act like it and Christians sadly don't often act like Christians to one another. I'm tired of being judged. It would be nice if more people were like Chuck (Rebecca's boss), when we were talking there were things it was clear he did not agree with us on but you could tell he was not, in his mind, questioning our spirituality, or worse, our salvation.
Anyway, a guy in Rebecca's church had a New Years Eve thing and she and I went. It was lots of fun (2 Baptists, 7 PCA's/4 lawyers, 2 engineers, 1 teacher, 1....I can't remember what he did, and 1 construction project manager). Again, conversation ranged all over; misconceptions we had as kids, things God did for us in the past, things we were hoping for in the future, things pertaining to the South, music, TV, baggage again...I could keep going. There was lots of laughter. Especially as the night wore on. But again, the conversation is what made it great. It was fun yet saddening; I had more/better Christian fellowship in those seven hours than I have had in the last year. I don't fit the prescribed Christian mold here. I do what I am supposed to do contractually but it's hard not being able to be myself and share opinions and thoughts that I know people will disagree with and we can still go away with respect for the other person. And despite the assurances from some that I am never judged there are times when that is certainly not the case.
I just don't know about next year. There is one thing and one thing only keeping me here: these students are my life right now and I can't imagine leaving them. But another year of the above? I don't know if I can do it. There are times I feel as if I'm going to have a break down. Also, to be dead honest, as much as I blow it off I do indeed want to eventually get married and the fact of the matter is: the likely hood of finding someone here is pretty slim at best. (Don't worry, I'm not going to come back to the States just to find a husband. I do want to get married but it's not a priority yet.) Having students ask me on a weekly basis when I'm getting married does not help matters. Don't get me wrong, being single's cool; I doubt I'd be here if I were married and I know I'd not have have some of the opportunities I've had were I married. It's just...
All of this stuff I've given to God. These are just some things that are in my head about all of it. I'm so glad God is in control!!
Ok, wow, this post took a totally different direction than I was originally going. I've never ever posted anything like this I don't think. Whatever, first time for everything.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The Soundtrack Makes the Movie!
Jessica has her Lit. Classes make videos at the end of the semester. They choose a story they read for class, and act it out. This is my boys' video. I think I want the soundtrack. If you're a facebook reader go here to see it.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Tooking of Tookies
For some time now several of the girls have been bugging me about a cooking club. I finally got around to getting it up and running, and today was the first day. We'll meet every Tuesday for the next six weeks and every week will make cookies for the Christmas Program and something meal-ish. Today we made sugar cookies, fried chicken (grumzies recipie!) and mashed potatoes. I have 9 girls. All but one of them are in grade 9. There is one seventh grader. I was not sure how things were going to go what with having so many girls but with making so much stuff there was work for all. I'm not really teaching them how to cook; I can tell several girls know their way around the kitchen. It's more like showing them some "American" food they can make at home. It was insanity for two hours but I can't wait for next week! Next week I'm planning on making Grilled Cheese and Tomato soup and no-bake cookies.
And a few other "non-slide" pics.
A total photo-op. And the only time he did not instantly get chastised for using the compy as a butt warmer.
The worlds greatest coffee cup. If only it were real.
A total photo-op. And the only time he did not instantly get chastised for using the compy as a butt warmer.
The worlds greatest coffee cup. If only it were real.Sunday, November 16, 2008
300!
So this is my 300th post. Guess I need to put something more than what I was intending to put on here. Cuz pretty sure I did not need to know I could get a green CSI:NY ipod nano. Does it really need to be over $200?? Talk about paying for a label. But I would spend it. If money were not an issue...oh well. When I grow up maybe.
I can't wait to go to Singapore! We have our tickets and hostel booked. Jess and I are totally excited because we don't really know what to expect, we don't even really know what we are going to do there, other than hit Maylasia for a day.
I lurf meh kitteh. He's going to be ginormous! He's about 7 mos now and is as big as Lightning (cat I had for like...10 years or so.) was. He likes to wake me in the mornings by licking my nose. Apparently it means I'm part of his pack or whatever. Thats nice and all but I'd rather he inform me of that when I am more awake. He has also taken to sitting on my chest when I'm at the computer. I usually sit in a large green papisan chair (it's more like reclining really) and he likes to come sit right under my chin. When this happens he hampers my ability to type/see. I'm sure he is aware of this. For a while he was not wanting to sit on me at all but once it started getting cold he uses me as a heat source.
It is getting cold but not yet cold enough to wear a jacket. Or at least, not yet cold enough for me to wear a jacket. I'm still fine in long sleeves. It is dark here by 6 though. Which is strange. Korea does not do time changes.
Nothin' too much going on school-wise. Every one's looking forward to Thanksgiving (see above)...Church is still good; I'm still tutouring...mmmm...thats about it.
Happy 300th post to me...
I can't wait to go to Singapore! We have our tickets and hostel booked. Jess and I are totally excited because we don't really know what to expect, we don't even really know what we are going to do there, other than hit Maylasia for a day.
I lurf meh kitteh. He's going to be ginormous! He's about 7 mos now and is as big as Lightning (cat I had for like...10 years or so.) was. He likes to wake me in the mornings by licking my nose. Apparently it means I'm part of his pack or whatever. Thats nice and all but I'd rather he inform me of that when I am more awake. He has also taken to sitting on my chest when I'm at the computer. I usually sit in a large green papisan chair (it's more like reclining really) and he likes to come sit right under my chin. When this happens he hampers my ability to type/see. I'm sure he is aware of this. For a while he was not wanting to sit on me at all but once it started getting cold he uses me as a heat source.
It is getting cold but not yet cold enough to wear a jacket. Or at least, not yet cold enough for me to wear a jacket. I'm still fine in long sleeves. It is dark here by 6 though. Which is strange. Korea does not do time changes.
Nothin' too much going on school-wise. Every one's looking forward to Thanksgiving (see above)...Church is still good; I'm still tutouring...mmmm...thats about it.
Happy 300th post to me...
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Laughing towards you not at you
Obviously, working in an ESL setting will generate some things to laugh at. When those times happen I am usually able to hold in my laughter. I don't want the kid to feel badly for something they did not say/do intentionally. Usually I will save the story for later so I can laugh then. Yesterday though I could not help it. Jesse is one of my best students. He works carefully and quite hard so it is rare indeed for him to get anything wrong, ever. Well, French had an oral test yesterday where I asked them questions (in French) which they had to answer (in French). I told them if they got confused to just say anything so they would get at least one point. One of the questions I asked Jesse was "Where is the dog?" The correct answer was to indicate that there was no dog. Jesse's response was "Max is in the classroom.", essentially calling his best friend a dog. I could not hold my laughter. In fact I laughed for about a minute before I could ask him his last question. I felt badly because I know he was confused and at least making an attempt. I did give him a bonus point though; my policy is that if on a test or something, if a student makes me really and truly laugh (intentional or not) they get a bonus point.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Pics and stuff
Pretty sure "stuff" is about the greatest word ever. It covers so many things. Pictures (finally) from Spirit Week and another Mac video. This time of him playing fetch. 'Scuse the mess. I don't clean except on Saturdays. Too tired when I get home. And just plain lazy. The papers are actually grades and were not there for too long.
Speaking of greatest ever; this latest episode of CSI:NY rocked. As in greatest to date IMO. Yes, as 'fore mentioned (several times) I am a CSI loser.
I had a good talk with the grade eight today. It would seem that Korean culture is even more accepting of swearing than American culture (as even Christians sound like sailor by some accounts). So we talked about why exactly it might not be a good thing to swear. It lead into other things and ended with why saying certain expressions is against the Bible. I have noticed that Koreans (even Christian ones) don't associate "God" with their word for God (Hana-nim) and will often say things they don't realize they are saying. When what they are saying is pointed out they usually get upset and try not to say it again. The kids were responsive and I could tell some were really listening. So pray for them (and especially Chris and Samuel as they admit to having especially bad mouths when speaking Korean).
We got a new teacher today. Jason has been attending our church since this summer whilst teaching at an English Hagkwan. He was not-exactly-fired and Mrs. J willingly took him as soon as she heard. He was already planning on teaching with us next year. He's doing computer stuff, some Math and a few other things. I don't know him too well but he seems ok.
Jessica and I are going to Singapore for Thanksgiving! We have our tickets and cannot wait! We are going to go to Malaysia for a day while we are there. It's gonna be fun!
Speaking of greatest ever; this latest episode of CSI:NY rocked. As in greatest to date IMO. Yes, as 'fore mentioned (several times) I am a CSI loser.
I had a good talk with the grade eight today. It would seem that Korean culture is even more accepting of swearing than American culture (as even Christians sound like sailor by some accounts). So we talked about why exactly it might not be a good thing to swear. It lead into other things and ended with why saying certain expressions is against the Bible. I have noticed that Koreans (even Christian ones) don't associate "God" with their word for God (Hana-nim) and will often say things they don't realize they are saying. When what they are saying is pointed out they usually get upset and try not to say it again. The kids were responsive and I could tell some were really listening. So pray for them (and especially Chris and Samuel as they admit to having especially bad mouths when speaking Korean).
We got a new teacher today. Jason has been attending our church since this summer whilst teaching at an English Hagkwan. He was not-exactly-fired and Mrs. J willingly took him as soon as she heard. He was already planning on teaching with us next year. He's doing computer stuff, some Math and a few other things. I don't know him too well but he seems ok.
Jessica and I are going to Singapore for Thanksgiving! We have our tickets and cannot wait! We are going to go to Malaysia for a day while we are there. It's gonna be fun!
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Just stuff
I know I've never mentioned this before...ever...but I love my kids. I am glad that God ignored my "I will never teach but if I ever did it will never ever ever be at a Christian School." Thursday I was talking with Max during Homeroom and somehow we started talking about next year. I have no idea what I'm planning on doing next year. I'm leaning towards staying but I have to wait till Feb when the new contracts come out. Anyway, I told Max that I really was not sure about next year and he told me that he wanted me to stay and be there for his last year and for graduation. Friday he came in and asked me if I had made my decision. I told him no and that I would not be making a decision till Feb and that I and several others were praying about it. He said he was going to pray that I will stay. It's nice knowing that some kids like me and want me there.
I've had some opportunities to talk to the seniors about where they are going to college. Most of the girls are planning on applying to Bob Jones. I mean, BJ is good and all (hey, I went there) but in all reality, I don't care where they go. I just want them to go where God wants them to go. Some of the kids (the guys mostly) are mostly concerned with the name and prestige of the college they will go to. I've even had two guys tell me "Bob Jones lets anyone in. I've worked too hard to go to Bob Jones." So pray especally for the guys and that they will be open to "nonprestigeous" schools (BJ or not). It's funny, God must have wanted the seniors to really hear some things this week, because Pastor Threlfall talked about going where God wanted you to go for college and he also talked about choosing your friends wisely. Both things that I know some of the kids heard from other teachers last week.
Spirit week was "last-last" week and it went over really well. Linda's been here for 5 years and she said it was the best one yet. In my three years it was. One of the difficult things about the school is that there is nothing to really get unified about, so I had the idea to put the kids into houses. My elementary school in Canada did it and many other schools do it. The kids gain and lose points all year and at the end of the year the winning team will go to an amusement park. If you've read Harry Potter you know the gist of the idea. So Linda and I came up with the 4 mascots (Tigers, Scorpions, Eagles and Sharks) and points started accumulating with Spirit Week. I and my grade 11 kids are on the Scorpions with grades 5 and 6. Last year I could have shot my kids, they dressed out like once or twice. This year they dressed out just about every day!! Monday was National Pride Day (I wore Canada stuff!); Tuesday was Olympic Day and I planned a bunch of indoor games that we played as teams; Wednesday was Superohero Day (I was a villian); Thursday was Fashion Disaster Day (easy to do in Korea); and Friday was Christmas Day. I have pics that I'll put up eventually...The Tigers (grades 12, 7, 2 and 3) won Spirit Week and got pizza on Friday. We were in second place. The Tigers won because on Thursday they cleaned up in the game (a scavenger hunt), won the cheer, and had a best dressed. For the rest of the year kids'll gain points with good behaviour, and good grades. They'll lose points with bad behaviour and bad grades. They lose 15 points for detentions and I hear when kids get detention: "Awww!! Minus 15 points!!".
The teacher situation is better this year than last year. It's nice having Linda on the floor. There are still issues but not as many. Actually, speaking of next year, Mrs. J already knows of several people who want to come teach. We are actually getting 2 more (maybe three but I doubt that she'll come) in January, which is nice because we are losing Sunah who is going to have a baby in January. There is a guy in our church teaching at an English Hagwan but he wants to come teach here next year plus several at BJ who are planning on applying. We are also out gowing our building (we have about 120 students and really can't hold any more). Mrs. Johnson is talking about buying the bulding next to us and having the High School in one and the Elementary in the other. I have no idea if thats going to happen or not but it would be nice if that did happen.
There wer some other things but I can't remember what they were...thats ok, this post is getting long enough anyway.
I've had some opportunities to talk to the seniors about where they are going to college. Most of the girls are planning on applying to Bob Jones. I mean, BJ is good and all (hey, I went there) but in all reality, I don't care where they go. I just want them to go where God wants them to go. Some of the kids (the guys mostly) are mostly concerned with the name and prestige of the college they will go to. I've even had two guys tell me "Bob Jones lets anyone in. I've worked too hard to go to Bob Jones." So pray especally for the guys and that they will be open to "nonprestigeous" schools (BJ or not). It's funny, God must have wanted the seniors to really hear some things this week, because Pastor Threlfall talked about going where God wanted you to go for college and he also talked about choosing your friends wisely. Both things that I know some of the kids heard from other teachers last week.
Spirit week was "last-last" week and it went over really well. Linda's been here for 5 years and she said it was the best one yet. In my three years it was. One of the difficult things about the school is that there is nothing to really get unified about, so I had the idea to put the kids into houses. My elementary school in Canada did it and many other schools do it. The kids gain and lose points all year and at the end of the year the winning team will go to an amusement park. If you've read Harry Potter you know the gist of the idea. So Linda and I came up with the 4 mascots (Tigers, Scorpions, Eagles and Sharks) and points started accumulating with Spirit Week. I and my grade 11 kids are on the Scorpions with grades 5 and 6. Last year I could have shot my kids, they dressed out like once or twice. This year they dressed out just about every day!! Monday was National Pride Day (I wore Canada stuff!); Tuesday was Olympic Day and I planned a bunch of indoor games that we played as teams; Wednesday was Superohero Day (I was a villian); Thursday was Fashion Disaster Day (easy to do in Korea); and Friday was Christmas Day. I have pics that I'll put up eventually...The Tigers (grades 12, 7, 2 and 3) won Spirit Week and got pizza on Friday. We were in second place. The Tigers won because on Thursday they cleaned up in the game (a scavenger hunt), won the cheer, and had a best dressed. For the rest of the year kids'll gain points with good behaviour, and good grades. They'll lose points with bad behaviour and bad grades. They lose 15 points for detentions and I hear when kids get detention: "Awww!! Minus 15 points!!".
The teacher situation is better this year than last year. It's nice having Linda on the floor. There are still issues but not as many. Actually, speaking of next year, Mrs. J already knows of several people who want to come teach. We are actually getting 2 more (maybe three but I doubt that she'll come) in January, which is nice because we are losing Sunah who is going to have a baby in January. There is a guy in our church teaching at an English Hagwan but he wants to come teach here next year plus several at BJ who are planning on applying. We are also out gowing our building (we have about 120 students and really can't hold any more). Mrs. Johnson is talking about buying the bulding next to us and having the High School in one and the Elementary in the other. I have no idea if thats going to happen or not but it would be nice if that did happen.
There wer some other things but I can't remember what they were...thats ok, this post is getting long enough anyway.
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