I just happened to read an article in Real Simple about e-mail etiquette. Thankfully, I've discovered that I'm current with what is/ isn't polite, but apparently some of the parents I correspond with are not.
According to the article, you should include a salutation and closing when sending an email. The only exception is if you are sending one to a friend whom you correspond with regularly. Otherwise, include both. Well, the weekly progress reports that I email home to parents usually generate a response. While some parents include the required (and proper) salutation and closing, others neglect both. Thus, I have to figure out who is addressing me and how I should address him (or her). I find it frustrating that in an age of communication there are plenty of adults who do not know how to correspond with professionals properly. Whenever I email parents, I be sure to address them by their last name, and end the email with my signature/ name. When they don't extend the same courtesy to me, it's almost as if they are addressing me as a peer, or worse, as an inferior.
So please. Be sure you follow email etiquette. And feel free to call me on those times when I fail to do so.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Celebrities and politics
I've taken to watching the Ellen Degeneris show after school since it keeps me entertained while I'm grading papers and whatnot.
Though entertaining, I have been a bit irritated by all the propaganda (for Obama). See, lately Ellen's been asking her celebrity guests for their opinions about the presidential race. That really irks me. For one, I don't understand why that needs to be one of the first questions she asks her guests, especially since many of them are not really part of the political scene. (I understand if the celebrity has been involved in politics or actively participates, but just the random celebrity?) Two, none of the celebrities can provide a good reason why they support Obama. Granted, I'm not a fan of his (how can I support someone who runs on "change" but hasn't done anything to make "changes" since being in the Senate? Voting "present" is hardly voting for change.), but I'm bothered by their inability to articulate why he'd be such a great candidate.
And then, of course, there's some of the negative press surrounding McCain and Palin. Sharon Osborne (yes, Ozzie's wife... so I guess I should just go ahead and dismiss the source) went on and on about how Palin isn't qualified to be VP because she's the basic "soccer mom". According to Osborne, if Palin could become VP, then most any soccer mom in America could, and she (Osborne) certainly didn't think that was plausible. Why not? Here's a woman who has solid family values and who has managed to balance running a state and caring for her family? So why could she not transfer those skills to a VP position? I know that she isn't as experienced as some politicians, but Obama's not as experienced, either, and he's running for president!
I'm sure part of my irritation is that I'm definitely conservative, and Ellen most certainly isn't. Plus, since it's her show, I guess she can ask what she wants. But I still have the right to be annoyed....
Though entertaining, I have been a bit irritated by all the propaganda (for Obama). See, lately Ellen's been asking her celebrity guests for their opinions about the presidential race. That really irks me. For one, I don't understand why that needs to be one of the first questions she asks her guests, especially since many of them are not really part of the political scene. (I understand if the celebrity has been involved in politics or actively participates, but just the random celebrity?) Two, none of the celebrities can provide a good reason why they support Obama. Granted, I'm not a fan of his (how can I support someone who runs on "change" but hasn't done anything to make "changes" since being in the Senate? Voting "present" is hardly voting for change.), but I'm bothered by their inability to articulate why he'd be such a great candidate.
And then, of course, there's some of the negative press surrounding McCain and Palin. Sharon Osborne (yes, Ozzie's wife... so I guess I should just go ahead and dismiss the source) went on and on about how Palin isn't qualified to be VP because she's the basic "soccer mom". According to Osborne, if Palin could become VP, then most any soccer mom in America could, and she (Osborne) certainly didn't think that was plausible. Why not? Here's a woman who has solid family values and who has managed to balance running a state and caring for her family? So why could she not transfer those skills to a VP position? I know that she isn't as experienced as some politicians, but Obama's not as experienced, either, and he's running for president!
I'm sure part of my irritation is that I'm definitely conservative, and Ellen most certainly isn't. Plus, since it's her show, I guess she can ask what she wants. But I still have the right to be annoyed....
Friday, September 19, 2008
For all my pregnant friends
Thank you Shel Silverstein for putting into words exactly how I've been feeling about my clothes lately.
"Why Is It?"
Why is it some mornings
Your clothes just don't fit?
Your pants are too short
To bend over or sit,
Your sleeves are too long
And your hat is too tight--
Why is it some mornings
Your clothes don't feel right?
Why is it some mornings
Your clothes just don't fit?
Your pants are too short
To bend over or sit,
Your sleeves are too long
And your hat is too tight--
Why is it some mornings
Your clothes don't feel right?
Losing my mind...
Well, I've officially experienced "pregnancy brain". Last week I tore a couple of recipes out of the latest Kraft magazine and set them on the island in the kitchen. They were there a good portion of last week... until Saturday. Saturday morning I picked them up... and I have no idea where I set them.
After Scott and I returned from nursery furniture shopping, I was going to plan out some meals for the coming week. I was hoping to try one of the recipes that I had found, but when I went to retrieve it from the island, it was gone (along with the others). As in vanished.
I looked EVERYWHERE for them. The office. My work bag. The recycling bin. The recipes must have vaporized because I can't find them anywhere. And of course, all those who know me know that it'd be difficult for me to misplace something in our house. After all, everything (but clutter) has a place in our home, so it's easy to notice when something's amiss.
Now here it is a week later and I'm still pondering their disappearance... and bemoaning the fact that I won't get to try the latest peanut butter chocolate brownie recipe.
After Scott and I returned from nursery furniture shopping, I was going to plan out some meals for the coming week. I was hoping to try one of the recipes that I had found, but when I went to retrieve it from the island, it was gone (along with the others). As in vanished.
I looked EVERYWHERE for them. The office. My work bag. The recycling bin. The recipes must have vaporized because I can't find them anywhere. And of course, all those who know me know that it'd be difficult for me to misplace something in our house. After all, everything (but clutter) has a place in our home, so it's easy to notice when something's amiss.
Now here it is a week later and I'm still pondering their disappearance... and bemoaning the fact that I won't get to try the latest peanut butter chocolate brownie recipe.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
The ramblings of a hormonal pregnant woman
Okay, so I have to confess that I really don't think I'm that hormonal. I just like saying that I am. But the rest of the title is true; I just have a few random thoughts that I felt like sharing and not one of them is really worthy of an entire entry by itself. So... here goes.
#1. Do squirrels think? I know, I know. What am I talking about? (Again... let's blame the hormones, folks.) As I was driving home from work yesterday, I noticed a squirrel by the side of the road, and it actually looked like it was watching traffic for the perfect time to cross. Course, that can't really be true since most squirrels just dart out at the last minute, but still, it made me wonder if they're cognizant that they're taking their lives in their hands (uh, paws?) every time they dart out in front of a car. (Unless it's a conspiracy with Geico, and they know exactly what they're doing.)
#2. In class the other day, one of my sophomores gave a rather sophomoric answer to a literary analysis question. The question was, "Based on the passage, how does the author feel about the 'young freethinkers'?" This young man responded, "Well, since I can't ask the author, I can't really say whether he likes them or not. On the one hand, I could say he does, but he doesn't provide any clues in the passage. On the other hand, I could say he doesn't, but there's no way to tell for certain." (Oh: This is a Pre-AP class.) I looked at him, narrowed my eyes, and said, "That doesn't even address the question. You managed to talk all around it without saying anything. We can determine how he feels if you examine the passage. So, take a stand. Which is it?" I mean, really. Did he think he could just say nothing and expect it to be satisfactory?
#3. Yet another reason why I'm not a fan of cell phones: last week in the grocery store, a mother was talking on the phone while completely oblivious to her little girls pleas to go to the bathroom. The girl was maybe around 4 years old, and she was quite obviously doing the "potty dance", yet mom kept gabbing away. What's so important that you neglect your little girl's basic, and very pressing, need?
#4. Stay-at-home mom v. working mom. The Today Show had a piece about women who choose to stay-at-home and those who choose to return to work. While I'm looking forward to being a stay-at-home mom, I don't begrudge those who choose to work. After all, I think that the woman has to do what's best for her and her family. So that's why I get so irritated by those (like one of the guests on the show) who argue that stay-at-home moms aren't as happy or as satisfied as working moms. Why? Because they aren't earning an income? Because they don't leave the home every day? Who's to say that a woman can't be satisfied by staying home and caring for her children? Why is that considered a bad thing? I know of plenty of women who wouldn't trade staying at home for anything. Anything. And I'm supposed to believe that they're unhappy?
#1. Do squirrels think? I know, I know. What am I talking about? (Again... let's blame the hormones, folks.) As I was driving home from work yesterday, I noticed a squirrel by the side of the road, and it actually looked like it was watching traffic for the perfect time to cross. Course, that can't really be true since most squirrels just dart out at the last minute, but still, it made me wonder if they're cognizant that they're taking their lives in their hands (uh, paws?) every time they dart out in front of a car. (Unless it's a conspiracy with Geico, and they know exactly what they're doing.)
#2. In class the other day, one of my sophomores gave a rather sophomoric answer to a literary analysis question. The question was, "Based on the passage, how does the author feel about the 'young freethinkers'?" This young man responded, "Well, since I can't ask the author, I can't really say whether he likes them or not. On the one hand, I could say he does, but he doesn't provide any clues in the passage. On the other hand, I could say he doesn't, but there's no way to tell for certain." (Oh: This is a Pre-AP class.) I looked at him, narrowed my eyes, and said, "That doesn't even address the question. You managed to talk all around it without saying anything. We can determine how he feels if you examine the passage. So, take a stand. Which is it?" I mean, really. Did he think he could just say nothing and expect it to be satisfactory?
#3. Yet another reason why I'm not a fan of cell phones: last week in the grocery store, a mother was talking on the phone while completely oblivious to her little girls pleas to go to the bathroom. The girl was maybe around 4 years old, and she was quite obviously doing the "potty dance", yet mom kept gabbing away. What's so important that you neglect your little girl's basic, and very pressing, need?
#4. Stay-at-home mom v. working mom. The Today Show had a piece about women who choose to stay-at-home and those who choose to return to work. While I'm looking forward to being a stay-at-home mom, I don't begrudge those who choose to work. After all, I think that the woman has to do what's best for her and her family. So that's why I get so irritated by those (like one of the guests on the show) who argue that stay-at-home moms aren't as happy or as satisfied as working moms. Why? Because they aren't earning an income? Because they don't leave the home every day? Who's to say that a woman can't be satisfied by staying home and caring for her children? Why is that considered a bad thing? I know of plenty of women who wouldn't trade staying at home for anything. Anything. And I'm supposed to believe that they're unhappy?
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Like wildfire
That's how news spreads in high school. Specifically, I'm talking about news of my pregnancy. I haven't openly told my classes, but I think most of my students know by now. My students' reactions have been such a blessing; that might sound redundant, especially since I've been blessed by so many friends and family who are sharing in our joy, but I never realized my students would be this excited for me.
For instance, after hearing the news, many of my former students responded by giving me a big hug while also screaming "Congratulations!". Others have told me, "baby shower!" Many of them have asked what we're having, as well as what names we've selected. And of course, my current students want to know when I'm having the baby and whether or not I'll be finishing the school year. It's just really touching that they're so happy for us.
Most amusing, though, has been when they've "drawn" the news out of me. Here are just a few instances:
1. Most of my students start with, "Mrs. C, I heard a rumor...." To which I simply smile, and say, "Yes?" Since most are still a bit reluctant to ask (they usually stammer a response to my question), I grin and nod my head in the midst of their stammering. :)
2. After the obligatory, "I heard a rumor", one of my students told me recently that she and some friends had been talking about how "Mrs. C. looks kinda funny. She's not skinny anymore." Apparently that's when she heard the "rumor". Ha!!
3. Aimee, Alex, and Noelle stopped by my room the first week of school to say "hi" (or so I thought). Before leaving, Alex gave me a hug good-bye. When I saw Aimee and Noelle Monday, I learned the real reason for the visit. Apparently they "heard a rumor", and were trying to discreetly check it out. Alex said he could find out by giving me a hug. Guess that didn't exactly work, since Aimee and Noelle had to ask me Monday. (Before Aimee even asked, I knew she would, especially since she kept looking at my stomach! Her question? "So, do you have any kids?" She already knew the answer to this question, but I humored her anyway. "No, but I have one on the way.")
4. And then there are those who have probably heard the rumor, but aren't as tactful in their approach. In class the other day, Julia raised her hand and asked, "Mrs. C, please don't get upset with me, but are you, you know? Expecting?" while pantomiming a pregnant belly.
I thank the Lord for these blessings. Really. I, like anyone, like to hear that I've connected with my "clients", and I don't always get that as a teacher. But when my students are so very excited by this news, well, then I know that I've succeeded in this profession.
For instance, after hearing the news, many of my former students responded by giving me a big hug while also screaming "Congratulations!". Others have told me, "baby shower!" Many of them have asked what we're having, as well as what names we've selected. And of course, my current students want to know when I'm having the baby and whether or not I'll be finishing the school year. It's just really touching that they're so happy for us.
Most amusing, though, has been when they've "drawn" the news out of me. Here are just a few instances:
1. Most of my students start with, "Mrs. C, I heard a rumor...." To which I simply smile, and say, "Yes?" Since most are still a bit reluctant to ask (they usually stammer a response to my question), I grin and nod my head in the midst of their stammering. :)
2. After the obligatory, "I heard a rumor", one of my students told me recently that she and some friends had been talking about how "Mrs. C. looks kinda funny. She's not skinny anymore." Apparently that's when she heard the "rumor". Ha!!
3. Aimee, Alex, and Noelle stopped by my room the first week of school to say "hi" (or so I thought). Before leaving, Alex gave me a hug good-bye. When I saw Aimee and Noelle Monday, I learned the real reason for the visit. Apparently they "heard a rumor", and were trying to discreetly check it out. Alex said he could find out by giving me a hug. Guess that didn't exactly work, since Aimee and Noelle had to ask me Monday. (Before Aimee even asked, I knew she would, especially since she kept looking at my stomach! Her question? "So, do you have any kids?" She already knew the answer to this question, but I humored her anyway. "No, but I have one on the way.")
4. And then there are those who have probably heard the rumor, but aren't as tactful in their approach. In class the other day, Julia raised her hand and asked, "Mrs. C, please don't get upset with me, but are you, you know? Expecting?" while pantomiming a pregnant belly.
I thank the Lord for these blessings. Really. I, like anyone, like to hear that I've connected with my "clients", and I don't always get that as a teacher. But when my students are so very excited by this news, well, then I know that I've succeeded in this profession.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
The "Hoff"
Yes, I am talking about who you think I am. David Hasselhoff. No, I'm not a fan, I just find him amusing.
Scott and I will watch "America's Got Talent" on occasion, and we couldn't help but notice that The Hoff is on there for one reason only: to give everyone a moral boost. I don't think we've heard him saying anything really negative about ANYONE. Seriously. As soon as someone finishes performing, The Hoff gives him a big smile and says, "You were terrific!" And I really think he's being genuine! I can't fault him for wanting to be encouraging, but really, if everyone is great, then doesn't that mean no one is? At least Piers (despite his brutal honesty and rough edges) and Sharon give the performers a dose of reality (Sharon does so quite tactfully). But The Hoff? Nope.
I'm all for encouraging someone, but shouldn't we be honest, too? If not, it's like we're the citizens in the Emperor's New Clothes. By lying to the performer, we're just delaying the inevitable and thus prolonging his embarrassment. Aren't we? Isn't there a point where the person has to face reality?
Of course, maybe I'm wrong. After all, The Hoff is known for his smooth acting on "Knight Rider" and "Baywatch" as well as for his talented vocals. Quite frankly it's a shocker that he isn't starring in his own show now. Maybe he should audition for "America's Got Talent"; after all, since he's such a great singer, he might just win, landing him a contract with a Vegas casino and re-launching his career.
Scott and I will watch "America's Got Talent" on occasion, and we couldn't help but notice that The Hoff is on there for one reason only: to give everyone a moral boost. I don't think we've heard him saying anything really negative about ANYONE. Seriously. As soon as someone finishes performing, The Hoff gives him a big smile and says, "You were terrific!" And I really think he's being genuine! I can't fault him for wanting to be encouraging, but really, if everyone is great, then doesn't that mean no one is? At least Piers (despite his brutal honesty and rough edges) and Sharon give the performers a dose of reality (Sharon does so quite tactfully). But The Hoff? Nope.
I'm all for encouraging someone, but shouldn't we be honest, too? If not, it's like we're the citizens in the Emperor's New Clothes. By lying to the performer, we're just delaying the inevitable and thus prolonging his embarrassment. Aren't we? Isn't there a point where the person has to face reality?
Of course, maybe I'm wrong. After all, The Hoff is known for his smooth acting on "Knight Rider" and "Baywatch" as well as for his talented vocals. Quite frankly it's a shocker that he isn't starring in his own show now. Maybe he should audition for "America's Got Talent"; after all, since he's such a great singer, he might just win, landing him a contract with a Vegas casino and re-launching his career.
Baby Update #2
Yesterday I went to the doctor for another baby check-up. While there, we (Scott went with) got to hear the heartbeat. Finally! The doctor was able to find the baby immediately; after placing the wand on my belly, we heard the "whirr whirr whirr" of our baby's heart! It was amazing! To think that we have the ability to listen to a baby while she's still in the womb... who'd have thought?! Hearing her made me smile and even tear up a bit. The doc said that the heartbeat is strong and that the baby's pretty active; soon after the initial "contact" the baby moved away, forcing the doctor to track her down. I wish we could have sat there listening longer or at least that I could bring a doppler home with me to listen. :)
I think Scott was pretty impressed, but he admitted that this still seems a bit unreal to him. Though he knows I'm pregnant, he said he doesn''t think it'll really hit home until I start showing. (I think I already am, but, bless his heart, my husband disagrees.) I'm guessing the ultrasound next month will also help the reality sink in.
The only bad news we had was really for me; according to their measurements, I gained 11 lbs in one month! Yikes! Still, I'm not so sure how true that is (yes, maybe this is a bit of denial) since I weighed myself yesterday morning and as of that reading, I've only gained about 8 lbs since pre-pregnancy. So... I'm not sure what to make of the weight gain. The doc thought it might be the carbs (I'm so sick of saltines now!) since they tend to relieve nausea. She recommended more fruits, veggies, and lean protein, as well as regular exercise. What I find ironic is that typically I'm good about my diet, and I consistently exercise. Unfortunately, I haven't been feeling that great the last month because of the morning sickness (well, all day nausea) and fatigue. Thus, I wasn't eating as well and I certainly wasn't exercising like I used to. I think being back at work will help me, though; something about being in a routine helps me stay focused and disciplined. The biggest challenge now will be staving off hunger. I'm ALWAYS hungry! The drawback? Well, the fruits and veggies don't exactly fill me up. I'm not trying to make excuses... just trying to prepare myself for the challenge.
I think Scott was pretty impressed, but he admitted that this still seems a bit unreal to him. Though he knows I'm pregnant, he said he doesn''t think it'll really hit home until I start showing. (I think I already am, but, bless his heart, my husband disagrees.) I'm guessing the ultrasound next month will also help the reality sink in.
The only bad news we had was really for me; according to their measurements, I gained 11 lbs in one month! Yikes! Still, I'm not so sure how true that is (yes, maybe this is a bit of denial) since I weighed myself yesterday morning and as of that reading, I've only gained about 8 lbs since pre-pregnancy. So... I'm not sure what to make of the weight gain. The doc thought it might be the carbs (I'm so sick of saltines now!) since they tend to relieve nausea. She recommended more fruits, veggies, and lean protein, as well as regular exercise. What I find ironic is that typically I'm good about my diet, and I consistently exercise. Unfortunately, I haven't been feeling that great the last month because of the morning sickness (well, all day nausea) and fatigue. Thus, I wasn't eating as well and I certainly wasn't exercising like I used to. I think being back at work will help me, though; something about being in a routine helps me stay focused and disciplined. The biggest challenge now will be staving off hunger. I'm ALWAYS hungry! The drawback? Well, the fruits and veggies don't exactly fill me up. I'm not trying to make excuses... just trying to prepare myself for the challenge.
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