“Never used an Unforgivable Curse before, have you, boy?” she (Bellatrix) yelled. She had abandoned her baby voice now. “You need to mean them, Potter! You need to really want to cause pain—to enjoy it---righteous anger won’t hurt me for long—"
--Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix page 810
I want to point out a specific part of this quote: righteous anger won’t hurt me for long. I have to admit I think this line is fabulous. At this point in the book, Harry is fighting for his life against the evil Death Eaters. He has just watched Bellatrix murder his godfather and he doesn’t even know if his friends have survived the terrible fights with the Death Eaters. He is angry. And he has every right to be angry. And it is this fact and the fact that Harry has love within him that he cannot truly hurt Bellatrix. As angry as Harry is at the loss of his godfather, he cannot truly enjoy the pain of another. His righteous anger is no match for the evilness of Bellatrix.
This is a quote where the lesson is what we take from it. It is not something that I can completely explain, but I can say that this scene leaves me pondering each time I read it.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Saturday, July 09, 2005
6 Days
A week from today I will be deep into book 6! It is a very exciting prospect! :) The following is a quote from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone page 208. Yes I have given the British title because that it what I am copying it out of, although I believe this quote says the same thing in the American version of the book.
I love this quote because it points out that it’s not magic that makes our characters so memorable. J.K. Rowling has developed this incredibly creative magic world, but she doesn’t let magic drive he characters. She has created real characters with both good and bad personality traits that help them accomplish what they are put up against.
This quote comes at the very end of the section where Hermione has figured out Snape’s protection of the stone. Hermione is getting ready to turn back to help Ron and find Dumbledore and Harry is getting ready to go into the final room and face Quirrell and Lord Voldemort.
“Harry—you’re a great wizard, you know.”
“I’m not as good as you (Hermione),” said Harry, very embarrassed….
“Me!” said Hermione. “Books! And cleverness! There are more important things—friendship and bravery and—oh Harry—be careful!”
I love this quote because it points out that it’s not magic that makes our characters so memorable. J.K. Rowling has developed this incredibly creative magic world, but she doesn’t let magic drive he characters. She has created real characters with both good and bad personality traits that help them accomplish what they are put up against.
This quote comes at the very end of the section where Hermione has figured out Snape’s protection of the stone. Hermione is getting ready to turn back to help Ron and find Dumbledore and Harry is getting ready to go into the final room and face Quirrell and Lord Voldemort.
“Harry—you’re a great wizard, you know.”
“I’m not as good as you (Hermione),” said Harry, very embarrassed….
“Me!” said Hermione. “Books! And cleverness! There are more important things—friendship and bravery and—oh Harry—be careful!”
Friday, July 08, 2005
7 Days
It’s all about community guys. All about community.
Dumbledore continued, “The Triwizard Tournament’s aim was to further and promote magical understanding. In the light of what has happened—of Lord Voldemort’s return—such ties are more important than ever before….”
“Every guest in this Hall,” said Dumbledore, and his eyes lingered upon the Durmstrang students, “will be welcomed back here, at any time, should they wish to come. I say to you all, once again—in light of Lord Voldemort’s return, we are only as strong as we are united, as weak are we are divided.
Lord Voldemort’s gift for spreading discord and enmity is very great. We can fight it only by showing an equally strong bond of friendship and trust. Differences of habit and language are nothing at all if our aims are identical and our hearts are open.
It is my belief—and never have I so hoped that I am mistaken—that we are all facing dark and difficult times. Some of you, in this Hall, have already suffered directly at the hands of Lord Voldemort. Many of your families have been torn asunder. A week ago, a student was taken from our midst.
Remember Cedric. Remember, if the time should come when you have to make a choice between what is right, and what is easy, remember what happened to a boy who was good, and kind, and brave, because he strayed across the path of Lord Voldemort. Remember Cedric Diggory.”
The Goblet of Fire p. 627-28 British Version
Dumbledore continued, “The Triwizard Tournament’s aim was to further and promote magical understanding. In the light of what has happened—of Lord Voldemort’s return—such ties are more important than ever before….”
“Every guest in this Hall,” said Dumbledore, and his eyes lingered upon the Durmstrang students, “will be welcomed back here, at any time, should they wish to come. I say to you all, once again—in light of Lord Voldemort’s return, we are only as strong as we are united, as weak are we are divided.
Lord Voldemort’s gift for spreading discord and enmity is very great. We can fight it only by showing an equally strong bond of friendship and trust. Differences of habit and language are nothing at all if our aims are identical and our hearts are open.
It is my belief—and never have I so hoped that I am mistaken—that we are all facing dark and difficult times. Some of you, in this Hall, have already suffered directly at the hands of Lord Voldemort. Many of your families have been torn asunder. A week ago, a student was taken from our midst.
Remember Cedric. Remember, if the time should come when you have to make a choice between what is right, and what is easy, remember what happened to a boy who was good, and kind, and brave, because he strayed across the path of Lord Voldemort. Remember Cedric Diggory.”
The Goblet of Fire p. 627-28 British Version
Thursday, July 07, 2005
8 Days
Those of you who have grown to love Harry Potter as I love Harry Potter, know that there is something about the books that make them special. Something that draws the reader in--making him or her care about the characters and the outcome of the story. It is not only the story of Harry Potter, but it is the story of all of us. Wandering around in a world trying to figure life out. That’s what makes a book timeless…because the story of life never changes.
Here is our first lesson from the stories of Harry Potter. The following is an excerpt from the essay Heaven, Hell, and Harry Potter recorded in Harry Potter and Philosophy. As I was reading this essay and came upon this part, I was surprised and pleased. I hope you enjoy it as well. And of course, I recommend the entire essay.
“What this means is that the nature of ultimate reality, the fundamental metaphysical truth, is loving relationship. God from all eternity has existed as a loving relationship among three persons. Moreover, God loves all His creatures so deeply that He was wiling to sacrifice himself to show how much He loves them and wants them to love Him in return. This is what is involved in the Christian belief that Jesus is the Son of God who willingly died for us on the cross to save us from our sins.
If this is true, the story about Harry Potter’s mother and the power of her blood is a reflection of one of the deepest truths about reality, namely, that all of us are loved by One who was willing to spill his blood and die for us. Furthermore, the love of Harry’s mother is a picture of the fact that love is a greater and more powerful thing than evil and death. It was her sacrificial love that protected Harry when Voldemort and Quirrell tried to kill him. In the Christian story, the resurrection of Jesus shows that love is stronger than death. Jesus offers to share his life with all who believe in him, and this life gives those who receive it the power to live forever. So understood, Christianity is a great love story and it is based on the belief that love is the deepest reality and evil cannot defeat it.” (PAGE 74-75)
Here is our first lesson from the stories of Harry Potter. The following is an excerpt from the essay Heaven, Hell, and Harry Potter recorded in Harry Potter and Philosophy. As I was reading this essay and came upon this part, I was surprised and pleased. I hope you enjoy it as well. And of course, I recommend the entire essay.
“What this means is that the nature of ultimate reality, the fundamental metaphysical truth, is loving relationship. God from all eternity has existed as a loving relationship among three persons. Moreover, God loves all His creatures so deeply that He was wiling to sacrifice himself to show how much He loves them and wants them to love Him in return. This is what is involved in the Christian belief that Jesus is the Son of God who willingly died for us on the cross to save us from our sins.
If this is true, the story about Harry Potter’s mother and the power of her blood is a reflection of one of the deepest truths about reality, namely, that all of us are loved by One who was willing to spill his blood and die for us. Furthermore, the love of Harry’s mother is a picture of the fact that love is a greater and more powerful thing than evil and death. It was her sacrificial love that protected Harry when Voldemort and Quirrell tried to kill him. In the Christian story, the resurrection of Jesus shows that love is stronger than death. Jesus offers to share his life with all who believe in him, and this life gives those who receive it the power to live forever. So understood, Christianity is a great love story and it is based on the belief that love is the deepest reality and evil cannot defeat it.” (PAGE 74-75)
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
9 More Days
Ladies and gentlemen, the long awaited day has arrived. We are finally only days before the release of the 6th Harry Potter novel. Finally we will find out what will happen to our favorite trio, Harry, Ron, and Hermione. What will they face now that Voldemort has returned? Who will be the new minister of magic? Will there be romance for our characters? And of course, who is the Half Blood Prince?????
I hope that you will join me in the anticipation of this book by checking my blog over the next few days. My HOPE is to share some piece of Harry Potter each day. It may be a lesson learned from the book, a possible prediction, or some other HP type news. It's going to be fun stuff though. It'll help the next nine days speed by.
Also, for those of you who are wondering. Of course I'll be at a Harry Potter release party. Why wait any longer than necessary when I can so easily drive to Joseph Beth and pick it up at midnight on July 15/16. Anyone who is even a little bit of a Harry fan is welcome to join in the fun!!
I hope that you will join me in the anticipation of this book by checking my blog over the next few days. My HOPE is to share some piece of Harry Potter each day. It may be a lesson learned from the book, a possible prediction, or some other HP type news. It's going to be fun stuff though. It'll help the next nine days speed by.
Also, for those of you who are wondering. Of course I'll be at a Harry Potter release party. Why wait any longer than necessary when I can so easily drive to Joseph Beth and pick it up at midnight on July 15/16. Anyone who is even a little bit of a Harry fan is welcome to join in the fun!!
Thursday, May 19, 2005
Adult Conversation
Adult Conversation: any conversation that involves discussing things that you don't have to worry about until you live on your own and pay your own bills; i.e. utility bills, water bills, broken anything in the house, etc.
We're adults now. How did that happen? And how can I make it stop?
--Meredith, Grey's Anatomy
Adult conversation reminds me that I am an adult. I've been an official, out-of-college adult now for almost two years. It's been a pretty crazy experience sometimes. Most of the time I avoid the adult conversations and stick to movies, books, and what are we going to do on Friday night discussions. It's just easier. There is no responsibiltiy there.
But life calls for responsibility. It asks us to take control and make decisions. Sometimes that road to decision making is more difficult than others.
I recently had a conversation with my dad where I (almost in tears) poured out what was on mind. He then told me he loved me and that I wouldn't like what he had to say. Then, in a way only my dad has, he told me to grow up. He said a few other things, but the jist was GROW UP. I guess it kind of hit me then that living in this "I'm an adult but pretending I'm not" world was just not good. Not healthy in fact, because how can you truly be who you are supposed to be if you are stuck in the middle of being one thing or the other. I realized that being an "adult" doesn't mean I have to change, it's just a different mindset and sometimes a different approach to the difficult things of life.
Since my dad's kind, but firm reminder of what I needed to do, life's been pretty good. Maybe the adult thing isn't so bad after all.
We're adults now. How did that happen? And how can I make it stop?
--Meredith, Grey's Anatomy
Adult conversation reminds me that I am an adult. I've been an official, out-of-college adult now for almost two years. It's been a pretty crazy experience sometimes. Most of the time I avoid the adult conversations and stick to movies, books, and what are we going to do on Friday night discussions. It's just easier. There is no responsibiltiy there.
But life calls for responsibility. It asks us to take control and make decisions. Sometimes that road to decision making is more difficult than others.
I recently had a conversation with my dad where I (almost in tears) poured out what was on mind. He then told me he loved me and that I wouldn't like what he had to say. Then, in a way only my dad has, he told me to grow up. He said a few other things, but the jist was GROW UP. I guess it kind of hit me then that living in this "I'm an adult but pretending I'm not" world was just not good. Not healthy in fact, because how can you truly be who you are supposed to be if you are stuck in the middle of being one thing or the other. I realized that being an "adult" doesn't mean I have to change, it's just a different mindset and sometimes a different approach to the difficult things of life.
Since my dad's kind, but firm reminder of what I needed to do, life's been pretty good. Maybe the adult thing isn't so bad after all.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
Bragging Rights
Hey everyone! Check out this article written a couple weeks ago in Akron, Ohio where the fantastic tour of Mamma Mia! starring Bekah Nutt was published! I always knew she was a star and now you can read this review and see it for yourself!
Massillon native Bekah Nutt shines in the pivotal role of Sophie in musical
`Mamma Mia,' she does very well
By Kerry Clawson
Beacon Journal staff writer
The current production of Mamma Mia at E.J. Thomas Hall proves that one strong characterization can bring the musical's lightweight story beyond mere fluff.
Massillon native Bekah Nutt (a Baldwin Wallace graduate) brings plenty of heart to her role as the young engaged Sophie, who is desperately searching for her father in an effort to be a ``proper bride.'' The diminutive performer is not only a likable actress, she's also a sweet singer and dynamic dancer -- a big improvement from the underwhelming vocals and cardboard characterization of Canadian Kristie Marsden, who played in the 2002 Northeast Ohio premiere of the musical in Cleveland.
In any compelling musical, the heroine has to offer an ``I want it'' song early on to make us care. Nutt's Sophie does that well, creating the thread that weaves together 22 ABBA songs from the 1970s into a new, modern-day story on a tiny, mythical Greek island.
In this story, 20-year-old Sophie learns from her independent-minded mother's diary that her father could be one of three men. She invites all three to her wedding, unbeknownst to her mother, Donna, a former rocker.
Lauren Mufson's Donna is understated -- more melancholy than feisty. Mufson's not a rock power like other Donnas have been, but she proves she has a big set of pipes in her show stopper, The Winner Takes It All.
On opening night Tuesday, the show's energy was slow to pick up in the first act. Some of the cutest staging occurs with the antics of groom Sky's scuba-diving buddies, who sneak in during an intimate moment between Sky and Sophie to literally steal Sky away. The dynamics become intense during a bachelorette party scene, where emotions run high as Sophie confronts possible dad Bill (Milo Shandel) in The Name of the Game.
In other clever staging, the three dads fawn over Donna in bed and an ominous-looking chorus of scuba divers surround Sophie during her second-act nightmare. Talk about wedding jitters.
For the most part, the show's singing is energetic and joyful. But at times, ensemble harmonies from offstage sound booths don't sound as richly layered as the cast album's.
Northeast Ohio is well represented in this show: Akron native Blake Ginther, a 1999 Firestone High School graduate and 2003 University of Cincinnati grad, joined the tour as an ensemble member right after Christmas. He's the son of Dr. William and Sharyl Ginther of Akron. Ginther, 24, is all boyish cuteness and muscular trimness as he throws himself into the fun-loving choreography.
As Rosie, the comedic Laura Ware is the biggest card in the show. Possible dads Shandel as Bill, Ian Simpson as Harry and understudy Rod Weber as Sam also are charming and lovable.
The show's big disappointment is Lisa Mandel's poor vocals as middle-aged siren Tanya. Mandel's statuesque height and elegance can't change the fact that she ruins the perfectly cool tune Does Your Mother Know. Equally mediocre are her solo lines in Dancing Queen.
Memorable lighting by Howard Harrison bathes characters in a dreamy blue aura. The story is set in designer Mark Thompson's rustic, versatile taverna.
The show, most appropriate for those high school age and older, has some double entendres, a sprinkling of profanity and adult themes. It also contains some tasteless male bashing.
The ABBA music is the true star of this show. Once again, the audience was most enthusiastic after the curtain call during the mini-concert, which in itself is nearly worth the price of admission.
Massillon native Bekah Nutt shines in the pivotal role of Sophie in musical
`Mamma Mia,' she does very well
By Kerry Clawson
Beacon Journal staff writer
The current production of Mamma Mia at E.J. Thomas Hall proves that one strong characterization can bring the musical's lightweight story beyond mere fluff.
Massillon native Bekah Nutt (a Baldwin Wallace graduate) brings plenty of heart to her role as the young engaged Sophie, who is desperately searching for her father in an effort to be a ``proper bride.'' The diminutive performer is not only a likable actress, she's also a sweet singer and dynamic dancer -- a big improvement from the underwhelming vocals and cardboard characterization of Canadian Kristie Marsden, who played in the 2002 Northeast Ohio premiere of the musical in Cleveland.
In any compelling musical, the heroine has to offer an ``I want it'' song early on to make us care. Nutt's Sophie does that well, creating the thread that weaves together 22 ABBA songs from the 1970s into a new, modern-day story on a tiny, mythical Greek island.
In this story, 20-year-old Sophie learns from her independent-minded mother's diary that her father could be one of three men. She invites all three to her wedding, unbeknownst to her mother, Donna, a former rocker.
Lauren Mufson's Donna is understated -- more melancholy than feisty. Mufson's not a rock power like other Donnas have been, but she proves she has a big set of pipes in her show stopper, The Winner Takes It All.
On opening night Tuesday, the show's energy was slow to pick up in the first act. Some of the cutest staging occurs with the antics of groom Sky's scuba-diving buddies, who sneak in during an intimate moment between Sky and Sophie to literally steal Sky away. The dynamics become intense during a bachelorette party scene, where emotions run high as Sophie confronts possible dad Bill (Milo Shandel) in The Name of the Game.
In other clever staging, the three dads fawn over Donna in bed and an ominous-looking chorus of scuba divers surround Sophie during her second-act nightmare. Talk about wedding jitters.
For the most part, the show's singing is energetic and joyful. But at times, ensemble harmonies from offstage sound booths don't sound as richly layered as the cast album's.
Northeast Ohio is well represented in this show: Akron native Blake Ginther, a 1999 Firestone High School graduate and 2003 University of Cincinnati grad, joined the tour as an ensemble member right after Christmas. He's the son of Dr. William and Sharyl Ginther of Akron. Ginther, 24, is all boyish cuteness and muscular trimness as he throws himself into the fun-loving choreography.
As Rosie, the comedic Laura Ware is the biggest card in the show. Possible dads Shandel as Bill, Ian Simpson as Harry and understudy Rod Weber as Sam also are charming and lovable.
The show's big disappointment is Lisa Mandel's poor vocals as middle-aged siren Tanya. Mandel's statuesque height and elegance can't change the fact that she ruins the perfectly cool tune Does Your Mother Know. Equally mediocre are her solo lines in Dancing Queen.
Memorable lighting by Howard Harrison bathes characters in a dreamy blue aura. The story is set in designer Mark Thompson's rustic, versatile taverna.
The show, most appropriate for those high school age and older, has some double entendres, a sprinkling of profanity and adult themes. It also contains some tasteless male bashing.
The ABBA music is the true star of this show. Once again, the audience was most enthusiastic after the curtain call during the mini-concert, which in itself is nearly worth the price of admission.
Monday, May 09, 2005
Ruth: Great because God made her Great
This weekend at Southland we studied Ruth. Since I got to go to both morning and evening services (which were completely different), I got a double dose of Ruth. I learned a lot though.
Did you know that Ruth is the 8th book of the Bible and that the number 8 is significant when used in the Bible because it signifies something new?
Did you know that Naomi means "cheerful one" and she changed her name to Mara which means "bitter one"?
Other life lessons from the two sermons include:
1. Leave and Go
The Christian life is all about change; if you are resistent to change you are not fully living the Christian life
2. You are either changing people or people are changing you.
3. If you want a Boaz, live like a Ruth; if you want a Ruth, live like a Boaz.
4. God's definition of Great is different than yours and mine
5. To live a life God considers Great is within my reach
6. In life, we will all go through times of trouble (see John 16:33)
7. It is in the little things that we prove ourselves capable of the big things
8. When God develops our inner qualities, he's never in a hurry.
Obviously lots of things to think about. Please note that when I post notes from the sermon on Sunday, I'm not making statements of fact. I am relaying what someone else has relayed to me; most of which I agree with and can back up with Scripture. But more and more I am realizing that there are a lot of things I don't have figured out. A lot of things that my opinions waver on, or that I don't know what Scripture says one way or the other. So I'm open to discussion.
Happy Monday!
Did you know that Ruth is the 8th book of the Bible and that the number 8 is significant when used in the Bible because it signifies something new?
Did you know that Naomi means "cheerful one" and she changed her name to Mara which means "bitter one"?
Other life lessons from the two sermons include:
1. Leave and Go
The Christian life is all about change; if you are resistent to change you are not fully living the Christian life
2. You are either changing people or people are changing you.
3. If you want a Boaz, live like a Ruth; if you want a Ruth, live like a Boaz.
4. God's definition of Great is different than yours and mine
5. To live a life God considers Great is within my reach
6. In life, we will all go through times of trouble (see John 16:33)
7. It is in the little things that we prove ourselves capable of the big things
8. When God develops our inner qualities, he's never in a hurry.
Obviously lots of things to think about. Please note that when I post notes from the sermon on Sunday, I'm not making statements of fact. I am relaying what someone else has relayed to me; most of which I agree with and can back up with Scripture. But more and more I am realizing that there are a lot of things I don't have figured out. A lot of things that my opinions waver on, or that I don't know what Scripture says one way or the other. So I'm open to discussion.
Happy Monday!
Monday, May 02, 2005
The Past, The Present, and the Future
Since I have about 5 minutes before my work day officially starts I thought I would take a few moments to share some thoughts on last night's 608 service.
Yesterday we began a new series at Southland, True Biblical Stories. We began with the story of Abraham. Well, first we began with the reminder that our Bible story heroes are just like us. I guess deep down we all know that. That our favorite Bible characters made some pretty major mistakes and yet still God used them in great ways. But we forget...especially when we want excuses as to why God can't use us. But here is a quote from how we started service yesterday:
"The next time your past tries to keep you from following God, remember you in good company."
Meaning, if you let your past stop you, it's YOU stopping you, not God. Because God will use you if you let him.
So, here's the key truths that Brad shared with us last night:
1. God's way is ALWAYS the BEST way:
Jeremiah 29:11 and Isaiah 55:8-9
2. Your past does not and will not ever disqualify you from being used by God
To go from the PAST to the FUTURE you have to remian in the PRESENT because you have to meet God in the present
3. God is ready and willing to use you right now.
God is looking for somone with an open and willing heart--the only thing that can disqualify you from being used by God is an attitude of unavailablity.
Number 2 struck a specific chord with me. Too often I find myself living in the future and making decisions based on the past. But if I want my life to not be about me and to be all about him, then I have to start living in the present because the present is where God wants to meet me. Sure, God was with me in the past and he'll be with me in the future. But today is what matters right now because God wants to be with me today. Right now.
So if you were not at Southland last night, I hope you enjoy my notes (and no comments about how I am a nerd because I take notes during sermons.) And if you were at Southland, hopefully this is a good reminder that today is the day to meet God; cause he'll be there tomorrow, but he wants to be with you today.
Yesterday we began a new series at Southland, True Biblical Stories. We began with the story of Abraham. Well, first we began with the reminder that our Bible story heroes are just like us. I guess deep down we all know that. That our favorite Bible characters made some pretty major mistakes and yet still God used them in great ways. But we forget...especially when we want excuses as to why God can't use us. But here is a quote from how we started service yesterday:
"The next time your past tries to keep you from following God, remember you in good company."
Meaning, if you let your past stop you, it's YOU stopping you, not God. Because God will use you if you let him.
So, here's the key truths that Brad shared with us last night:
1. God's way is ALWAYS the BEST way:
Jeremiah 29:11 and Isaiah 55:8-9
2. Your past does not and will not ever disqualify you from being used by God
To go from the PAST to the FUTURE you have to remian in the PRESENT because you have to meet God in the present
3. God is ready and willing to use you right now.
God is looking for somone with an open and willing heart--the only thing that can disqualify you from being used by God is an attitude of unavailablity.
Number 2 struck a specific chord with me. Too often I find myself living in the future and making decisions based on the past. But if I want my life to not be about me and to be all about him, then I have to start living in the present because the present is where God wants to meet me. Sure, God was with me in the past and he'll be with me in the future. But today is what matters right now because God wants to be with me today. Right now.
So if you were not at Southland last night, I hope you enjoy my notes (and no comments about how I am a nerd because I take notes during sermons.) And if you were at Southland, hopefully this is a good reminder that today is the day to meet God; cause he'll be there tomorrow, but he wants to be with you today.
Monday, April 25, 2005
Spring time in KY and Monday Mornings.
What the heck...I mean come on. This weekend? What was that all about? Snow? In April? I was so excited to see a high in the 60s today!
So, I think I think (?) in short sentences. I'm finding when I am excited, tired, or on a coffee overdose (such as most mornings) I type in really short sentences. Actually they aren't even sentences just groups of words put together that I decide to put a period or question mark or exclamation point after. I'm thinking that this morning it must be because it is Monday.
What is it about Mondays anyway? I mean, why do we dislike them? Seriously, they are the start of something new. Every Monday morning we get to start over. A new work week to accomplish things. Another weekend to look forward to (the number five is only a long time when it refers to the week). Maybe we dislike Mondays because it is a new week with new responsibilities and new things to do. Or maybe it's cause we are still recovering from a weekend filled with way too many things to do and not enough sleep.
I personally like this Monday because Mondays are a pretty slow day at school because the students are still tired from their weekend. :) And after this Monday...I only have four more. :)
So, I think I think (?) in short sentences. I'm finding when I am excited, tired, or on a coffee overdose (such as most mornings) I type in really short sentences. Actually they aren't even sentences just groups of words put together that I decide to put a period or question mark or exclamation point after. I'm thinking that this morning it must be because it is Monday.
What is it about Mondays anyway? I mean, why do we dislike them? Seriously, they are the start of something new. Every Monday morning we get to start over. A new work week to accomplish things. Another weekend to look forward to (the number five is only a long time when it refers to the week). Maybe we dislike Mondays because it is a new week with new responsibilities and new things to do. Or maybe it's cause we are still recovering from a weekend filled with way too many things to do and not enough sleep.
I personally like this Monday because Mondays are a pretty slow day at school because the students are still tired from their weekend. :) And after this Monday...I only have four more. :)
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
So, in case you were wondering, being sick sucks. You're tired, grouchy, your voice sounds funny, and people don't want to stand anywhere near you. You have coughing fits and your students turn around and have to ask if you are okay. Overall you just feel like crap. It's a wonderful feeling for those of you who haven't had the pleasure of the sick feeling yet this season.
Seriously though, being sick is pretty miserable and doesn't give for the best blogs, but I just thought I would share with you all how I was feeling in hopes that by the time you read this I will be completely cough-free.
Seriously though, being sick is pretty miserable and doesn't give for the best blogs, but I just thought I would share with you all how I was feeling in hopes that by the time you read this I will be completely cough-free.
Monday, January 31, 2005
Friday, January 28, 2005
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Well, I had jury duty orientation today. Yep, I have been called up to serve my country. According to the judge who presided over orientation today, serving as a juror is one of the greatest ways we can serve our country. He noted that we have a unique and special system in America that allows us to be judged by a panel of our peers. I know all this of course (History teacher that I am), but it was a really good reminder that though jury duty is somewhat of an inconvience, it is something that, as Americans, we should want to do. In fact, since I have resigned myself to the inconvience of it all, I am now excited about the experience it will give me to be a better teacher. Conviently, we are getting ready to begin our chapter on how government works in my history class. So, this experience of jury duty will only enhance my ability to discuss the judicial process with my students. I think I should therefore get professional development for it. :)
I will definately keep you posted on the merits and demerits of jury duty. Today I am pleased to say that I feel I am doing a duty to my country, and therefore there is nothing to complain about. Hopefully...I will keep that in mind (it's in print now so I will have to!)
I will definately keep you posted on the merits and demerits of jury duty. Today I am pleased to say that I feel I am doing a duty to my country, and therefore there is nothing to complain about. Hopefully...I will keep that in mind (it's in print now so I will have to!)
Hello all you blog readers! I don't really have anything to say, but I feel as if I have neglected my blog a great deal. I get so concerned about saying something interesting and witty that I find I kind of run from the blog screen. I often think of GREAT things to say when I am as far away from the computer as posible, and then by the time I have the time and energy to blog, those great thoughts have disappeared never to return. It's a shame really cause I bet that I am a fantastic writer. It's just that the words never make it from my mind to paper, so the great ideas are stuck where only I get to enjoy them. I know, I'm so sorry that you all are missing out! :)
Oh! I just thought of something to say! (I knew it would come eventually). This weekend my roommate and I rented the movie Saved! Have you heard of it? It's set in a Christian Highschool and is mainly a satire on fundamentalist Christians who are a little over the top. As extreme as it may seem at points, this movie is reminder that our actions are being watched and that we need to daily evaluate our Christian relationship to discover who we are serving, God or ourselves. In the movie multiple characters think they are doing what God wants them to do, only to realize that they didn't go about it the right way. It's interesting, something to think about. I do recommend it, cause I think we all need something to think about, and this movie will make you think.
Okay, I better post this before I get kicked off aol and lost this entire thing. Cause that would be a shame, because I know you all wouldn't want to miss reading this blog...and there is no way I am typing it again. :) Hope you enjoy! And comment away..cause maybe that will inspire me to post more often!
Oh! I just thought of something to say! (I knew it would come eventually). This weekend my roommate and I rented the movie Saved! Have you heard of it? It's set in a Christian Highschool and is mainly a satire on fundamentalist Christians who are a little over the top. As extreme as it may seem at points, this movie is reminder that our actions are being watched and that we need to daily evaluate our Christian relationship to discover who we are serving, God or ourselves. In the movie multiple characters think they are doing what God wants them to do, only to realize that they didn't go about it the right way. It's interesting, something to think about. I do recommend it, cause I think we all need something to think about, and this movie will make you think.
Okay, I better post this before I get kicked off aol and lost this entire thing. Cause that would be a shame, because I know you all wouldn't want to miss reading this blog...and there is no way I am typing it again. :) Hope you enjoy! And comment away..cause maybe that will inspire me to post more often!
Thursday, January 13, 2005
It’s not every day that you get to meet someone you admire. On Tuesday evening I met Meg Cabot, author of The Princess Diaries series, All-American Girl, The Boy Next Door, and other books that I have read and enjoyed. She came to Joseph-Beth and spoke and signed books. Just listening to her, I can understand why I, and so many others, enjoy her books. She is absolutely hilarious. Her word choice, her tone, and her facial expressions kept the audience laughing. After listening to her, I can tell that she puts all of who she is into her novels. That is what makes them so great. She’s real in person and that enables her to create real characters.
It seemed like a normal night really, with just an extra stop at the bookstore. But in reality it is one of those times that you just know you will always remember. That every time I pick up her book, I’ll think of how I spoke with her and now have her signature in Every Boy’s Got One, her latest novel. This novel refers to the fact that every boy has a heart…though I sometimes wonder about this, I am willing to read and discover how her character comes to this conclusion. Who knows, maybe it will help me better understand guys!! (Unlikely, but you never know!)
It seemed like a normal night really, with just an extra stop at the bookstore. But in reality it is one of those times that you just know you will always remember. That every time I pick up her book, I’ll think of how I spoke with her and now have her signature in Every Boy’s Got One, her latest novel. This novel refers to the fact that every boy has a heart…though I sometimes wonder about this, I am willing to read and discover how her character comes to this conclusion. Who knows, maybe it will help me better understand guys!! (Unlikely, but you never know!)
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Merry Christmas!
What a holiday season it has been! It's been full of parties and get togethers, time with friends, Christmas lights, and yummy food. Since it is only December 21, there is still more celebrating to be done. Since the hustle and bustle of my everyday work day is gone, I can finally relax and maybe really think about what Christmas is. Cause the parties and lights and food are fun and exciting--that isn't why we celebrate. It's easy to forget why we are celebrating this time of year. But in fact without Christ's birth, there wouldn't be a Christmas season to celebrate.
I often wonder what Christmas means to those who are not Christians. How do they justify taking time off work, eating lots of food, and buying lots of presents? Christmas just doesn't make sense to me without Jesus' birth in the center. So, if you are working hard to justify eating lots of food, taking time off work, or buying lots of presents--take a few minutes to remember that in the middle of all those things we need to thank God for giving his son to us, as a baby boy so long ago.
Merry Christmas everyone!!
What a holiday season it has been! It's been full of parties and get togethers, time with friends, Christmas lights, and yummy food. Since it is only December 21, there is still more celebrating to be done. Since the hustle and bustle of my everyday work day is gone, I can finally relax and maybe really think about what Christmas is. Cause the parties and lights and food are fun and exciting--that isn't why we celebrate. It's easy to forget why we are celebrating this time of year. But in fact without Christ's birth, there wouldn't be a Christmas season to celebrate.
I often wonder what Christmas means to those who are not Christians. How do they justify taking time off work, eating lots of food, and buying lots of presents? Christmas just doesn't make sense to me without Jesus' birth in the center. So, if you are working hard to justify eating lots of food, taking time off work, or buying lots of presents--take a few minutes to remember that in the middle of all those things we need to thank God for giving his son to us, as a baby boy so long ago.
Merry Christmas everyone!!
Merry Christmas to me! Today it was announced that book 6 of the Harry Potter series will be released on July 16, 2005. Hurray!!! I cannot wait! It's exciting to at least have a date to look forwards too. So, there will be months of speculation before the book comes out...and I better start rereading the series! It is a tradition after all to reread the entire series before the new book comes out. :) Merry Christmas!
Friday, October 01, 2004
Some Things Never Change
The band plays the same songs. The cheerleaders do the same dances. The student section never sits down. The parents sit in the same spots. The junior highers never watch the game. The announcer still doesn't know what's going on. And everyone is still cheering for the home team.
This is Clinton Mississippi on a Friday night during football season. Tonight I enjoyed my first CHS game as an alumnus---5 years after I graduated. I had the chance to come home this fall and I took it (forgetting how long the drive actually is). Luckily is was a weekend when Clinton played at home. I am not sure what it is about football, or what it is about being a part of the home team, but the excitement doesn't seem to fade. I still wanted to cheer until the end and make sure we one. It was a close game 13-7, but ended excitingly when the Arrows kept the Gators from scoring by intercepting the last play of the game. Got to love those last minute turnovers.
I don't know what it is that makes me sensitive to things like the "alma mater." Though I only spent 3 full years in Clinton, it will always be a part of life. It has to be...it's where my first diploma comes from.
Despite living in Kentucky today I am glad that I was given the ability to feel that many places are home. It's great to be home now; and it will be great to go home on Sunday.
The band plays the same songs. The cheerleaders do the same dances. The student section never sits down. The parents sit in the same spots. The junior highers never watch the game. The announcer still doesn't know what's going on. And everyone is still cheering for the home team.
This is Clinton Mississippi on a Friday night during football season. Tonight I enjoyed my first CHS game as an alumnus---5 years after I graduated. I had the chance to come home this fall and I took it (forgetting how long the drive actually is). Luckily is was a weekend when Clinton played at home. I am not sure what it is about football, or what it is about being a part of the home team, but the excitement doesn't seem to fade. I still wanted to cheer until the end and make sure we one. It was a close game 13-7, but ended excitingly when the Arrows kept the Gators from scoring by intercepting the last play of the game. Got to love those last minute turnovers.
I don't know what it is that makes me sensitive to things like the "alma mater." Though I only spent 3 full years in Clinton, it will always be a part of life. It has to be...it's where my first diploma comes from.
Despite living in Kentucky today I am glad that I was given the ability to feel that many places are home. It's great to be home now; and it will be great to go home on Sunday.
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
It's been a long time since I have published, but I do have an excuse. Summer has ended and the work year has begun! It didn't catch me off guard, but it did become a whole lot of work extremely fast. I don't often use this site to complain, but the subject I am going to approach warrents being discussed.
I work in a school district that is so large and sometimes unpredictable that you never know what's going to happen. Instead there is this magic thing called "Day Four." These words are spoken with reverence, fear, and anger most of the time. These words mean that things could change in what feels like a moment.
Day Four in Fayette County refers to the fourth day of each new school year. This is the day when schools turn in their numbers--how many students they have attending their school. Depending on the numbers you can gain or lose staff to your school. Because of the new middle school in Fayette County this year, it was somewhat of a turbulent start to the new year. And now day four has come and changes have been called. At my school we are gaining a teacher and a half; but we are losing a special education teacher. It doesn't seem to make sense, I know. As it turns out one grade's special education will have to totally be redone, and one team's schedules (likely my 8th grade team) will have to be redone. It's all about the kids, I know...but it doesn't stop the frustration.
I am thankful that I still have my job...once again I escaped the horrors of Day Four. Others, were not so lucky and I can only hope that it works out for them.
Even as I sit here waiting for students to enter my room, I know that it is all about them. But I just keep wondering...what is wrong with a system that keeps hurting/frustrating its workers. The horrible cycle never seems to end in a job where security should be at its highest, you often don't feel secure.
I work in a school district that is so large and sometimes unpredictable that you never know what's going to happen. Instead there is this magic thing called "Day Four." These words are spoken with reverence, fear, and anger most of the time. These words mean that things could change in what feels like a moment.
Day Four in Fayette County refers to the fourth day of each new school year. This is the day when schools turn in their numbers--how many students they have attending their school. Depending on the numbers you can gain or lose staff to your school. Because of the new middle school in Fayette County this year, it was somewhat of a turbulent start to the new year. And now day four has come and changes have been called. At my school we are gaining a teacher and a half; but we are losing a special education teacher. It doesn't seem to make sense, I know. As it turns out one grade's special education will have to totally be redone, and one team's schedules (likely my 8th grade team) will have to be redone. It's all about the kids, I know...but it doesn't stop the frustration.
I am thankful that I still have my job...once again I escaped the horrors of Day Four. Others, were not so lucky and I can only hope that it works out for them.
Even as I sit here waiting for students to enter my room, I know that it is all about them. But I just keep wondering...what is wrong with a system that keeps hurting/frustrating its workers. The horrible cycle never seems to end in a job where security should be at its highest, you often don't feel secure.
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