Preparation

Our ITBS assessments are quickly approaching, March 12-26, and I have never been more nervous about what I'm teaching.  Having just found out these dates last week, I am now trying to cover so many concepts that we have not even touched yet.  I didn't really understand NCLB when President Bush first passed this but as I am actually teaching, it has become so much more clear.  I do not like that I am teaching to a test.  It makes me cringe really.  My goal for these next to weeks to come up with creative ways to teach the content so they are not stressed or worried about their 2 weeks of testing.  Until March 12th is here, I am going to do my best to prepare them for these assessments.  After that, there is nothing else I can do.

My weekend has been spent planning activities for these next few weeks as well as watching some solid girl movies with my roommates.  Friday night, Amanda rented "Bridesmaids" which is hilarious! Today the girls and I went to the theater and used some movie coupons to go see "The Vow". Such a chick flick but so sweet at the same time!  Also, this morning at Mass I got to lector for the first time down here as well as get trained to be a Eucharistic Minister.  Being involved in the Mass helps me feel more connected so I'm excited to be able to participate in those ways.

I have had some strange and slightly morbid dreams.  I had a dream Friday night that one of my students was eaten by an alligator! Then Saturday I took a nap and dreamed my grandma was going to die soon!  Last night I had a dream that I missed my lectoring time today at Mass.  Thank goodness they are just dreams though. 

Finally, to round out this post, I cannot wait for Jenae to come this week! She will be here for a few days just to hang out and visit.  I've really been looking forward to it and I can't wait to spend some time with her.  Even though I feel like I talk to a lot of people from home during the week, I still feel a little disconnected and out of touch with everyone.  I am, however, so grateful that I have people in my life to miss.  It could all be so much worse.  I cannot believe February is pretty much over because March is going to seem pretty much non-existent.  I have Jenae here this coming weekend, then I have to get report cards ready.  On the 18th, I am going to see a STL Spring Training game with my dad's best friend and finally, a week long retreat at the end of the month with my CVIF family! I have so much to be excited for!

I hope the first 5 days of your Lenten season are a good sign of the rest of it. I know mine has definitely proved a bit challenging but also beneficial.  Have a beautiful Monday!