This has been an interesting year. I would have to say it has not been my best. I've had a lot of ups and downs, and many stressors, some I've blogged about here and others I have not. Overall, I am glad to see this year go, and look forward to seeing what 2008 has to offer.
I had a nice, relaxing, somewhat low key Christmas weekend.
Saturday: Did my shopping while Mom went to the grocery store. Was quite aggravated by it. Note to self: Stick to the SuperTarget near home. Going to other Targets that are arranged differently is confusing.
Sunday: Helped clean and bake cookies, watched movies.
Monday: Lazy morning for me. Mom finished baking. Dad was working and so was Jena, so Mom and I went to an open house some friends were having. Dad cooked the traditional steak dinner, although the meat was poor this time...we will not be getting steaks from that grocery store for a while! Waited up for Jena to get home from Duluth and went to bed.
Tuesday: Was up around 10:3o and we sat and watched TV for awhile. Jena was not feeling well but we woke her up long enough to open gifts about 2 pm...probably the latest Christmas "morning" I can remember. Made the usual calls to relatives. Mom, Dad and I went to see family friends for Christmas dinner, which was a very nice time. Upon arriving back home, met Jena's new boyfriend who had come over.
What I Got:
Wishing the best to everyone out there in blog land. We will have our traditional steak dinner tonight and tomorrow will join another family, some of our oldest friends, for supper.
Lint is meowing and jumping in my lap, so I figure she wants food. Upon going downstairs, I notice it is quite cold. I round the corner into the kitchen. What do I find?
The back door is wide open and Pumpkin is walking in off the porch.
That's right...Pumpkin OPENED THE DOOR and LET HERSELF OUT.
Cats...
If you are looking for the perfect holiday gift, or perhaps just a laugh, our friend Matt has some ideas, folks:
MRLT Culture Guru--Holiday Gift Guide
(Yes, I know the Frat Brother gifts are "rated R"...just laugh at the description and avoid clicking the link, boys and girls)
Alicia Says:
After the holidays?! I don't think I can wait that long to find out! :D
Neither can I. The suspense is going to drive me crazy.
I want to take a minute to address something that's been bothering me lately: the demise of some of my favorite blogs. In the years I have been a part of the blogosphere I have seen many come and go, it is a natural cycle.
Recently, though I am starting to notice people dropping their blogs (and Facebook) for reasons beyond being tired of them. I'm seeing great blogs die because the writers are becoming overwhelmed with a feeling of overexposure or are tired of dingbats leaving nasty comments under the guise of "Anonymous."
It's really sad. While I am fully aware that we all have to watch ourselves online, blogs are supposed to be a medium of free expression. They are supposed to be the writer's domain. Obviously there is a line...we shouldn't be writing slanderous lies about our friends and enemies, but being authentic should be applauded.
Am I authentic? Yes. Could I be more so? Yes, but some personal details need not be revealed just for revelation's sake.
When did openness and honesty in blogging become a bad thing?
Now, even my MOTHER has begun to question me about my blog and Facebook profile. I had to remind her of two things:
1) I have studied blogging and writing online
2) I participated in several discussions about Facebook profiles and the ability of employers to see your online identity.
Thus, I do not believe there is anything on this blog, or on my Facebook page, that I would fear getting out there. I'm pretty sure I've scarecely used a swear word on here in 3+ years with the exception of "hell" which is debatable as a cuss word to begin with.
And in fact, the ability to function in an online world may actually prove a benefit in my professional life over time, since email/blogs/Facebook etc. are the ways students communicate, and even staff communicate, to a degree that will grow over time.
What do you think?
The meeting I had yesterday went very well. Thank you to all that had crossed fingers. I'll have a better idea of things after the holidays.
I was called by someone in one of the offices at the U of M. She and her supervisor want to talk to me about some ideas and a possible position. Scheduled to meet with them at 10 on Tuesday.
Could things be looking up?
This morning I attended the services for Jared. It was a packed house...the kid was sure loved by many, many people. It was nice to see so many of the current and former student leaders of MSUSA there. It's often said that the association is like a large fraternity or extended family. And just like a family, people may not always agree but in the end they come together to support one another.
There were plenty of tears and lots of hugs, but also lots of laughter. His sister told a few great stories, and the pastor remarked about having Googled him and coming across the posts from I Don't Hate America. "I'm not sure the meaning of that, but I'm glad you don't" he said, eliciting a chuckle from many of us.
In another funny moment, Jared's father came over to our table during the after-service gathering. Upon learning I was a grad of BSU, he tried to get me to sing the school song and do the school cheer, since he attended BSU as well. One problem--I am a bad Beaver and can't do either from memory. He started singing and the entire table cracked up. As JJ said, we know where Jared got his sense of humor.
I'll close this entry with a quotation of Jared's that I have seen in several places the last few days as folks have reflected on his life. It speaks to his passion for leadership and is really how those of us that are student leaders or who strive to work with students professionally should look at each day. It will also be placed in the sidebar as the first of my new "Quotable Quotes" series.
Earlier today, I found out that a friend and longtime colleague during my time in MSUSA had fallen gravely ill.
Tonight, Jared Stene passed away.
He was a great guy, a great student leader, and a friend to so many of us. It's hard to believe he's gone, at age 22, and so unexpectedly. I guess it is a sobering reminder that none of us know how long we have and we must live each day to the fullest, as I have no doubt he did.
Rest in Peace, buddy. You'll be missed.
**Update** See other tributes at:
I Don't Hate America
Blue Man In A Red District
Bluestem Prarie
I received this as an email last week and got quite a charge out of it.
HEADLINES FROM THE YEAR: 2029
Ozone created by electric cars now killing millions in the seventh largest country in the world, Mexifornia, formerly known as California White minorities still trying to have English recognized as Mexifornia's third language.
Spotted Owl plague threatens northwestern United States crops and livestock.
Baby conceived naturally! Scientists stumped.
Couple petitions court to reinstate heterosexual marriage.
Iran still closed off; physicists estimate it will take at least 10 more years before radioactivity decreases to safe levels.
France pleads for global help after being taken over by Jamaica. No other country comes forward to help the beleaguered nation!
Castro finally dies at age 112; Cuban cigars can now be imported legally, but President Chelsea Clinton has banned all smoking.
George Z. Bush says he will run for President in 2036.
Postal Service raises price of first class stamp to $17.89 and reduces mail delivery to Wednesdays only.
85-year $75.8 billion study: Diet and exercise is the key to weight loss.
Average weight of Americans drops to 250 lbs.
Global cooling blamed for citrus crop failure for third consecutive year in Mexifornia and Cubofloria.
Japanese scientists have created a camera with such a fast shutter speed they now can photograph a woman with her mouth shut.
Abortion clinics now available in every
High School in United States.
Senate still blocking drilling in ANWR even though gas is selling for 4532 Pesos per liter and gas stations are only open on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Massachusetts executes last remaining conservative.
Supreme Court rules punishment of criminals violates their civil rights.
Average height of NBA players is now nine feet, seven inches.
New federal law requires that all nail clippers, screwdrivers, fly swatters and rolled-up newspapers must be registered by January 2030 .
IRS sets lowest tax rate at 75 percent.
Cubofloria voters still having trouble with voting machines.
I've been spending a lot of time recently trying to work on improving my resume. I had thought the one I was using was OK, until Mom looked at it last week. She'd been to some workshop at her work, and based on that said my resume was all wrong.
She Says:
-Too Long
-Too Vague
-Includes non-relevant information
I had originally been told by Career Services at BSU that as a new grad I shouldn't leave anything out, and that with all my leadership experience and honors, a two-pager was ok. Mom seems to think it shouldn't be more than a page.
I did send a couple of drafts to a 3rd party, someone I met at the MCPA conference who works at the U. He kept it at two pages and suggested additions...A skills section and a professional development piece.
Is this a case of the corporate world vs. the educational one? Who's correct in your opinion, readers?
This is very frustrating! I need a job...and I hope my resume is not a reason I haven't secured one.
If you're an MSUSA alum who happens to read this blog:
We are taking the first steps toward getting organized.
Please go to the**New** MSUSA website and register on the Alumni page. You'll be added to their database and begin to receive updates.
Alumni Database Form
Questions? Contact Kari Winter in the MSUSA Office.
We had new furniture delivered on Saturday. Mom has decided to put off doing the floors until Spring, so she just went ahead and scheduled the delivery. The new chairs are great...big plush leather recliners in a mission style. They make our antique couch, which we used to think was a huge piece, look tiny.
Mom timed it...the delivery men were here and gone in exactly 9 minutes.
Thankfully, neither cat has tried to scratch the new stuff...lets hope that fact holds.
Another tidbit...
Mom and I both got $1 from Dad yesterday because he had said he didn't believe the weatherman and would give us $1 if it reached 57 or above yesterday. It was 63. 63 degrees in November...not too shabby.
I'd heard from some people at BSU that a restructuring plan had been presented, but I didn't know what it was until I happened to click on the Northern Student online edition. Pretty good article, and very interesting to me. I'm pasting it below because I have no idea how long the link will be good.
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Senate Holds Meeting to Discuss Reorganization of Colleges
Written by Emily Halla~Staff Writer
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
A mixture of feedback and emotions flared around the crowded Crying Wolf room at Wednesday’s Student Senate meeting. In a different setting than usual for the Senate meeting, Bemidji State students came to learn more about the college reorganization proposals that could take effect next year on campus. Last spring, BSU went through a budget readjustment that resulted in the formation of a committee that worked throughout the summer to find ways to reorganize the colleges.
Through the brainstorming came two proposed models that members of the committee are looking to gain feedback on.
Currently, there are three main colleges within Bemidji State: the College of Arts and Letters, the College of Professional Studies, and the College of Social and Natural Sciences. The committee has reorganized the positioning of programs in the following two models:
Model 1: Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business and Technology, Health Sciences and Human Ecology. This model would consist of three areas of study, all having an academic dean and associate vice president and also an associate dean for arts and sciences, which would be a new position. The areas of study under this model are the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Technology, and the College of Health Sciences and Human Ecology.
The College of Arts and Sciences would include Art History, Biology, Chemistry, Communication Arts, English, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, History, Indian Studies, Mathematics, Modern Languages, Music, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Sociology, Theatre, and Visual Arts.
The College of Business and Technology incorporates Accounting, Business, Computer Science, Economics, Mass Communication, and Technological Studies. Finally, the College of Health Sciences and Human Ecology contains the departments of Criminal Justice, Nursing, Physical Education/Health and Sport, Professional Education, Psychology and Social Work.
With this model, departments in the professional colleges and those in the College of Arts and Sciences will partner in agreed affiliations that would be reassessed during a five-year review and might rotate or change, depending on departmental developments and requests. This model would provide colleges with a primary focus and new opportunities for expansion while uniting departments for a more deliberate approach to liberal education programs.
Pat Rogers, the Dean of the College of Social and Natural Sciences acknowledged, “This model allows for growth of two smaller colleges [Arts and Sciences] and also helps shape the liberal education curriculum.”
Model 2: Signature Themes Colleges. This model, like the first, would also consist of three areas of study, each having an academic dean and associate vice president. The three colleges under this proposal would be the College of Civic Engagement, the College of Environmental Stewardship and the College of Global & Multicultural Understanding.
The College of Civic Engagement would include Communication Arts, Criminal Justice, Nursing, Philosophy, Physical Education/Health and Sport, Political Science, Professional Education, Psychology, Social Work, Theatre and Visual Arts. The College of Environmental Stewardship would contain Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Studies, Geology, Mass Communication, Mathematics, Physics and Technological Studies. The College of Global and Multicultural Understanding would consist of Accounting, Art History, Business, Computer Science, Economics, English, Indian Studies, Geography, History, Modern Languages, Music, and Sociology.
“This model allows growth for a different kind of synergy within departments. It gives college a flavor of signature themes and departments a shared vision,” Dean Rogers explained. The motivations proposed for this model substantiate university commitment to the signature themes by building them into an organizational structure. It would encourage cross-curriculum development by placing departments with shared interest within the same college while establishing secondary relationships with other colleges. It would also minimize department isolation and provide a new support for integrated learning.
Students hotly voiced concerns that if one of these models takes effect that their major, especially those that are smaller, would suffer as a result. Elizabeth Dunn, history professor and President of the BSU Faculty Association was quick to assure that the budget agreement didn’t consist of the removal of any department or faculty.
“Programs will still control their major in curriculum,” Dunn said. “There is no intent to further endanger small programs, but rather to help and protect them.”
As response kept circulating, there was also the question of whether this could have an overall negative effect upon students. “We’re trying to think of any decisions as long-term benefits to the university as a whole,” Dunn clarified.
Dean Rogers also addressed concerns by adding, “You all are affecting the future, and it really is very exciting.”
Towards the closing of the meeting, Nancy Michaels, a professor of English and committee member expressed her appreciation of the Student Senate and others that attended the meeting. “I’m glad the Senate has read and reviewed these models. I hope the students will engage in one model or the other. This is careful planning of how students would like to see what Bemidji State becomes,” Michaels said.
Students who would like to learn more about the reorganization of colleges and voice their opinions regarding this issue are encouraged to attend a meeting on Thursday, November 1 at 4:00 p.m. in the Crying Wolf Room.
In case anyone out there relies on labels to search my archives, which I doubt, you may notice that the "School" classification has disappeared in favor of "BSU"
That is all.
Not long ago I noticed this article on MacDailyNews:
SMU Cox School of Business dumps PCs for Apple Macs
This is interesting to me, as BSU has been considering a similar move...the SuperLab is already all Mac. As the article suggests, the Mac switch provides the most options for users.
A smart move by SMU Cox.
Had a good weekend. Went to lunch with JJ on Saturday and talked about a number of things including MSUSA, my job search, and his planning to switch to a Mac. Another convert.
Saturday evening Mom and I went to a middle eastern restaurant which doubled as a shisha bar. We did not have any shisha ourselves, but I now know what a hookah looks like...always wondered what the hell they were when friends referred to them last year.
On the job search front, I had another interview today. This time it was for a help desk position with a nonprofit that works with school districts on their software needs. It is a very different kind of position than I have been going for, but good experience nonetheless. The meeting went well, and the would-be coworkers seem nice. I guess they should be deciding by the end of the week, so it'll be nice to know fairly quickly as opposed to waiting 3 months for a final outcome as I've had to with some of my applications.
A few weeks ago, I changed my cell phone number.
Since then, I've gotten probably a half dozen calls from strange numbers at all hours of the day and night. The one time I did pick up it was some guy I could barely understand. Other times there is a "Missed Call" message on my screen but nothing in voicemail.
I think my number must have belonged to someone else at one point, and these must be his friends calling.
Mom and I took guesses on how many Trick or Treaters we would see last night.
My guess was 5, hers was 9.
Actual count: 7
Happy Halloween!
Last night I was thinking about Halloweens past. It has always been an enjoyable holiday in our house, as it is one of Mom's favorites. While we did not decorate this year because of the other stuff she's working on, like painting the furniture, our home is usually the most decked out on the block. And as kids, our costumes were ALWAYS homemade, never from a package. I can remember dressing up as, in no particular order:
Pee Wee Herman
A Pirate
Dick Tracy
Chester Cheetah
A Viking
Sherlock Holmes
Mr. Peanut
I'm sure there were others but I can't recall. I know I stopped trick-or-treating several years before my sister, because at the time I did not have the stamina to walk the neighborhood just to get candy.
We have few trick or treaters anymore because the kids on the block have either outgrown it or moved. This year we are switching it up a bit and giving out fun size bags of Doritos and Cheetos.
Sharon Says: I'm probably showing my ignorance, but exactly what is a 'penny' dinner?
A "Penny Dinner" is the annual fundraising dinner for MSUSA's Penny Fellowship Program. Along with the annual Golf Scramble, it is an opportunity to raise funds for scholarships which are distributed to MnSCU students completing internships in public service or government.
The "Penny" is actually Former Congressman Tim Penny, a board member and state chair of MSUSA during his time as a student at Winona State University. Mr. Penny founded the program with an endowment in 1987.
Last night was a little bit of a reunion of sorts. I attended MSUSA's Penny Fellowship dinner. It was nice to get a chance to see so many people that I have not seen for a few months. And, I had a chance to hang out with the BSU folks for a little while as well.
As I sat and visited with my former delegation, I was once again reminded how I miss MSUSA conferences. Sure, they could be long, busy weekends, but there was always that aspect of having fun with friends too...laughing, joking and giving each other grief.
A nice evening indeed.
Recently saw this on MacDailyNews:
Apple Mac on the rise among U.S. college students
According to a recent survey by SurveyU.com, Dell is currently the most popular computer brand among college students while Apple is building momentum due to the strength of their student purchase program and the halo-effect of the iPod.
SurveyU is a survey research organization that has established a representative panel of college students within the United States who share their opinions on a wide range of issues. The SurveyU community has been meticulously constructed within the United States. Our bottom-up methodology enables levels of accuracy on campus, state, regional and national levels that were previously impractical - either online or offline.
The success of Apple’s student program is a significant contributor to its on-campus momentum, with more than 4 out of 5 (83%) of Mac-owning students having purchased
their Mac under a student plan that includes an iPod with Mac computers sold to students. Slightly less than a third (30%) of Dell’s collegiate sales are made under a student plan, while the remaining computer manufacturers have not fully leveraged the power of student purchase programs.
The impact of the iPod on computer purchase decision-making is undeniable, with current iPod owners more likely to be current Mac users (29% versus 23%) as well as future Mac purchasers (52% versus 44%). Computer brand choice varies by gender, with female collegians more likely to choose Apple, Sony and Toshiba and male college students preferring Alienware, Dell and Lenovo brands. College students are mobile and their choice of desktop versus laptop reflects their demand for portability. More than 4 out of 5 college students use a laptop as their primary computer.
“US College students have spent an average of $1,290 on their computers, resulting in more than $22 billion spent by those currently in college.” said Dan Coates, co- founder of SurveyU, in the press release. ‘”Given that colleges are swelling to accommodate the massive Millennial generation, PC manufacturers would do well to get in front of this critical consumer segment."
One thousand online interviews were conducted between Thursday, October 18th 2007 and Sunday, October 21st, 2007. Respondents participate in the SurveyU panel of U.S. college students which has been meticulously constructed to represent college students nationally. Results were weighted to reflect the demographic composition of college students nationwide according to statistics published by the NCES (National Center for Educational Statistics).
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When I was selling Macs at BSU I did indeed notice more people switching over from PCs, as I did myself a little over a year ago. Apple is definitely doing something right reaching the college market.
I had a really nice time at the MCPA conference Monday and yesterday. I had wondered if I would feel a tad out of place being that I am neither a current staff member or student of any school. But everyone I spoke with was quite nice and I think I've made some great contacts.
I attended sessions on:
In Duluth, but staying at the conference hotel instead of my sister's. She's got the flu, and no one wants company when sick.
So, I brought the trusty MacBook and am making the most of my down time.
To visit my sister and attend the MCPA conference. Should be an interesting couple of days.
Over at TeacherScribe, I have seen some posts recently about Kurt’s pets. Boy it sounds like his was an animal-filled home growing up and still is today!
I am not sure if I’ve addressed the Christiansen family pets before but here it goes.
Sinbad was our dog. We got him at about 6 months old from the Humane Society. I was in first grade. Originally, Dad’s hope was that he would become a hunting dog, but it was never meant to be. He could not fetch a training dummy for his life but LOVED to chase tennis balls in the yard. He was a very friendly dog, although he never seemed very bright—we took him out in the boat when he was young, and he decided to jump out in 20 feet of water, for instance, forcing Dad to haul him in by his collar.
As he got older, his health declined. He was arthritic. His vision and hearing started to go. Worst of all, he developed nasty ear infections that wouldn’t go away. He became withdrawn, and really couldn’t do much. Dad finally put him down in 2004—he probably should have gone a couple of years earlier but each time we would discuss it, the dog would have a good week or month and be more lively. It was very hard on Dad to make the decision that it was finally time for Sinbad to go, but it was best for the dog. 14 years is a good life for a larger breed—he was a Lab/Springer mix.
Lint, or “Linty” is our older cat. She gets her name from her gray, fuzzy coat...like the lint from a dryer. Originally we said we would never have cats—Dad was not a fan, and still isn’t in most cases—but he was outvoted by the rest of us. My sister especially wanted a cat, and I wanted something that would sit in my lap to be petted.
We don’t recall the exact year we got her, but I think she’s 7 or 8. She was the runt of the litter at the Humane Society and never got very big. She’s full grown and maybe 7 pounds soaking wet.
Lint is a very independent cat. She can be a very loving and affectionate animal, but can also be a major crab-ass. When she wants attention, she comes to you. Very rarely will she let someone pick her up...I don’t even try. She also rarely sits in your lap, opting instead to stand on you, knead your leg with her foot like it’s bread dough, or walk across your lap a few times before she jumps down. One thing I’ve noticed since I moved back is that she enjoys visiting me in my room when I’m on the computer, jumping in my lap and walking across the keyboard as I attempt to type.
Pumpkin, or “Punky” is our younger cat. She joined the family in 2002 just before I left for BSU. Her name comes from her coloring…calico—orange, black, brown and white. My sister and a friend picked her up one day for free from an older lady after deciding that Lint would be happier with a playmate…
For the first two or so years she was here, Lint was a total bitch and wanted nothing to do with us. The two cats got into squabbles multiple times a day, running through the house hissing at each other. Yeah, a playmate all right…they still fight but it’s more play, they seem to enjoy pushing each other’s buttons.
Pumpkin’s favorite activity is eating. She’ll eat almost anything, lick almost any plate clean. I once saw her steal a chicken bone off a plate of leftovers I had eaten for lunch. For this reason, she’s twice Lint’s size. She’s known as the pig of the house.
Pumpkin is very affectionate and loves attention. When not sleeping she’s almost always near us. Most evenings she can be found sprawled out on Dad’s lap for long periods of time, and also likes to follow him around…she’s certainly imprinted on him the most.
For a household that was once dog only territory, we’re now very content without one. Yes, the cats can be moody and aren’t as loyal as dogs, but they are still very loving. They also require less constant attention than dogs, which has been nice since my parents both work and we’ve been away at school, As long as cats have food and water and a clean litterbox they’re good to go—no need to walk them, exercise them or let them out to go to the bathroom. They also don’t shed like the dog did—big black clumps of hair on a brown carpet—it wasn’t pretty.
Every year Dad does Game Fair for work and comes home, a small part of him wanting another dog. But then we all remember that while Sinbad was great to have around, this household isn’t too shabby as a cat-only place these days. And I think it will stay that way.
We are now “cat people” who still love dogs, we just don’t have one.
In addition to Matt's extravagant sweater admission, Froyd also addressed his preference for PCs on my post regarding Mac OS X Leopard:
"you could save that money and spend it on a computer that is more substance than hype...like, I don't know, a PC?"
I have talked before about why I own a Mac, I believe. As most of you know I was a Gateway Guy at one time.
Some reasons why I made the switch:
Yesterday I mused about wanting to spend too much money on a piece of software.
Last night I noticed this comment from Matt, who has become a regular visitor here in Berne's World:
"I believe I left my willpower at the Barney's counter where I paid $500 for a Theory hooded sweater.
But you better believe I'm wearing that damn thing every day!"
I had to chuckle, because based on what I know from his blog, he's also 23 and in need of employment. $500 for a sweater makes my desired purchase seem like a bargain. Still, I'll hold out a few weeks.
Oh the things we impulse buy...
That must be one hell of a sweater!
Yesterday Apple announced that OS X 10.5 Leopard arrives Friday the 26th.
Occasionally I find myself wanting the next big thing. This is one of those occasions. Sure, my trusty MacBook works well now, but I want to be totally up to date. I want to play with the new features.
Problem: the $200 pricetag. (I would buy the multi user version to bring the parents' house iMac up to date as well)
It seems a bit of an extravagance to spend $200 on new software when I'm unemployed and not exactly flush with cash. Still, the devil on my shoulder says "treat yourself, you rarely do" and it is taking major willpower not to go visit the Apple Store online and place an order.
Some humorous takes on the Larry Craig mess, courtesy of YouTube.
Larry Craig: I Am Not Gay
If Larry Craig Were Gay
A Tribute to Senator Larry Craig
- I was up before 9 this morning. I'm ashamed to admit it was the first time in a while.
-I am quite surprised by the number of blogs I now read. There are currently 44 in my feed reader and I'm adding new ones by the day. I don't know why I did not discover the feed thing sooner--it makes keeping current so much easier. If you're not using a feed reader, I suggest trying it out...and if your blog has no feed, enable it.
-It seems downright chilly the last couple days, compared to Sat. and Sun. I'm doing laundry and the seasonal switch out today...Polos get packed away and long sleeves and sweaters come out.
-I have a new phone number. It took a little longer than expected at the because the contract I'm under was old. So, if I understood right, I'm on the new "basic plan" (I don't use many minutes) and they gave me night and weekends at 6 PM for no extra charge because it's not my fault my plan is old, and you're not supposed to have to change for a new number. (If you are someone who might need it, email me)
-Today is National Coming Out Day--please remember to be an ally to those you know who are GLBT...I know I try to be.
I think fall has made it's return to the Twin Cities. It's gone from the 80s to the 50s in a matter of a couple of days. A bit of a shock to the system, really.
This morning I got a text from my cell phone company telling me to pay my bill. Online account management says it's overdue.
Problem-I distinctly remember writing the check and Dad remembers it being in a stack of mail he sent out three weeks ago. Either the check was lost in the mail or my provider is stupid...both are quite possible.
I'm also having another cell phone dilemma. I'm not sure whether to keep my current phone number (a Bemidji number) or change it to a Twin Cities number, since this is where I am living now. I want to make a decision within the next few days because I'm having calling cards printed up to easily distribute my contact info at the conference I'll be attending in a couple of weeks.
Factors to consider:
Are neat. I finally decided to give one a try. I'm hoping that it will save time by allowing me to see which blogs have been updated so I don't have to click in each individually to see if anything's new.
Shrook for Mac--check it out.
Today it felt like July and yet the leaves remind us that it's the 7th of October.
We took advantage of this and had a family outing of sorts this afternoon. Mom needed some paint and wanted to pick up a pumpkin. We also stopped at furniture stores and settled on a set of mission-style leather recliners for the living room. There is some major redecorating going on at our house. When Mom's "plan" is complete, we will have:
I've made a decision. I will be attending my first "professional development" event in a couple of weeks, even though I am not yet a professional in anything. I will be going to the MCPA conference in Duluth later this month. It was brought up to me last spring as a good idea by a staff person at BSU with whom I've discussed my career aspirations. I hadn't committed to it until the last few days because I initially wasn't sure I'd be in MN by this time, since I applied to several jobs out of state. Well, obviously I'm still here and when it popped up on my iCal as i looked ahead at October, I thought I'd go ahead and do it.
Why does one attend a professional conference when he is neither a student nor staff at any school?
Are STUPID.
My interview yesterday went fairly well. It was a little more laid back and less intimidating than the others I've done, mainly because it was with one person instead of a larger panel. The job sounds like it would be decent--much heavier on the sales aspect than public school admissions, but I think it would be good experience.
This was apparently the first round of two. She said she had a bunch more to do, so it may be a little while before I know whether a second interview is going to happen. If so, it would be with the campus director and the regional admissions director--they have 13 campuses in several states.
A callback would be a positive development, and my fingers are crossed as I continue to search postings and prepare more materials to be sent out.
A couple of my regular readers have been asking for an update on my job search. Namely Alicia and Sharon--thanks for the kind words of encouragement ladies!
Search by the numbers, if I've counted correctly:
Total Applications Completed: 38
Interviews Completed: 3
Still Active: 13
I know some people I have talked to say it can take 50-100 applications before something sticks. My challenge is that the kind of work I want to do either seems to require more experience than I have, more education than I have, or both. Admittedly, I have only met minimum qualifications for many of the positions to which I've applied, but I've gone for it anyway because I have very little to lose. I just want to get my foot in the door someplace and get some experience somewhere in the field.
I've also heard it can take six months to find a job in one's field. I've been looking for a little more than four at this point, but I won't be able to last much longer in the world of the unemployed for several reasons:
1) I am bored.
2) My bank account is shrinking.
3) Large periods of unemployment look bad on resumes, and I need experience doing something.
4) The parents are starting to worry.
So, at this point I see a few scenerios developing:
1) The stars align in my favor and I'm able to secure student affairs work very shortly.
2) I get a retail job in the short term, and hope for a grad assistantship somewhere in the fall.
3) I apply to work in the call center at the company where my mother works. We've floated this almost as a joke in the past, because we didn't think it would be the best option. But, as the weeks wear on, she's brought it up again...the pay is OK, benefits are good and it would be easy to get to work.
4) Something else entirely, TBD.
I still would like to be in a Masters program either full or part time next fall. Exactly where or whether it is FT or PT is dependent upon where I end up working.
I have an interview Monday for an Admissions Representative position with a private business school. As usual, I won't say which one unless I get hired someplace, but suffice it to say that if you live within viewing area of Twin Cities TV stations, you've likely seen their ads and know the jingle that goes with them, which begins "One Day, One Night, Saturday's all right..."
We'll see how it goes.
Some observations...
The other day, Dad said something to me about my odd sleep habits. You see, I still stay up pretty late and in turn sleep later in the morning. He wants me to start rising earlier...
My response was that I'd like nothing more than to have a REASON to get up earlier. I'm starting to realize how much I miss having a somewhat predictable schedule of getting up between 6 and 7 because I had to be somewhere at 8 or 9. There was always a meeting, or class, or work to go to and things to do that pretty much occupied my days on campus.
I miss classes. Not the homework, but the feeling that I was using my brain, my storehouse of knowledge on a daily basis.
And I think I miss my monthly travels. As much as conferences were work and drama filled, they were fun...and an excuse to get away from one's daily surroundings. As much as I griped when Cody called them "vacations" I think there was an element of truth to it. I haven't been out of town in a couple months and mentally I feel like I should be going someplace soon.
Things must change soon.
Attended the MSUSA reception last night. It was good to see folks again...some for the first time in over a year...fun to catch up. I was reminded, as always, what an excellent group of students, alums and staff they've got. I put a lot of myself into that organization over the course of five years, did a lot of great things and met great people in the process.
In other news:
In case you missed my earlier post on this...
This afternoon, The Minnesota State University Student Association marks 40 years of student advocacy with a reception at its office, 23 Empire Drive in Saint Paul.
If you're an alumnus, friend or supporter of MSUSA who's in the Twin Cities today, stop by to help celebrate this milestone.
For more info or directions, call their office at 651-224-1518.
CNN reports that OJ Simpson has been arrested in connection with a Las Vegas robbery.
Yet another piece of proof that the guy is a lowlife. While I believe in the tenants of our justice system, I believe he did get away with murder in 1995, and has done little since to convince the public otherwise, even going so far as to pen a book titled "If I Did It."
I hope they nail him this time and he ends up where he belongs--in jail.
After the issues I had yesterday with Blogger layout, You'll notice that the template and sidebar look a little different, as I basically chose a new template, deleted all the existing page elements, and started from scratch.
I suppose since the blog just turned three it was time for a refresh.
Check the "People" list for several new additions as well.
Is Blogger being funky for anyone else?
I tried to make changes to my layout and it looks TOTALLY messed up. The new improved layout tools have mutinied on me! Everything is still there but I can not move anything within the sidebar...every page element is piled on top in the center, no matter which I select.
So, until I get this figured out, enjoy my really old "classic" template that was archived before the switchover to "new" Blogger.
Any thoughts, readers??
Last night, Mom was talking about how some of the people in her training class at work were referring to a video called "Chocolate Rain" they'd seen on YouTube. She'd never been on the site, so we checked it out. Honestly, I haven't figured out why they found it so funny, but we did stumble on to some other humor:
I thought I would take a moment to comment on two things that have been in the news recently.
Larry Craig:
Let's get right down to it...this guy is a bozo. I don't care if the guy is gay or straight, the fact of the matter is that no upstanding, self respecting person should be crusing for sex in an airport bathroom. Three words: dirty old man. Now he says he did nothing wrong and only pleaded guilty because of media scrutiny.
Sorry Larry, innocent people generally don't plead guilty, and the amount of press you've received as a result of your about-face is as much or more than there would have been had you chosen to fight the charges. Take your lumps and ride off into the sunset...people have had enough of you.
Britney Spears:
I did not see her bomb at the VMAs, but there's been so much about it in the media that it's pretty clear there was a trainwreck. But honestly, what career is there to save? The woman has not had a hit in years and now gets more attention for questionable parenting skills and her failed marriage than her music.
Yes, she was once a hot ticket...as a teen pop star. How long did she think it would last? She's already had a longer run than most of her counterparts, e.g. N'SYNC and the Backstreet Boys. Perhaps it's time for her to accept the fact she's a bit of a has-been.
Found a little haiku over at Road Less Traveled that pretty much sums her up. Definitely worth a couple of chuckles.
Summer has come and gone. The last two weeks have been weird--I have had the feeling on more than one occasion that I am supposed to be someplace else. After all, this is the first time since I was five years old that I have not been in school somewhere.
The job search continues. It is slow going...lots of applications are out but nothing has materialized yet. Had another interview last week, but would say it's probably a long shot. I guess the upside is that I am getting better at interviewing.
I'd hoped something would've happened by now, but that's life. A major change in strategy has to be undertaken soon, but first I must figure out what that is going to be.
For the moment, all I can do is keep plugging away and maintain a positive outlook.
Never ceases to amaze me. It's been in the 80s and 90s so far this week, and humid as can be.
And this weekend? 60s.
Inconsistency is the name of the game.
It was three years ago today that "Berne's World" began with some fairly mundane test posts.
Obviously, I took to blogging and have found it to be a great way to get thoughts written down, keep a journal of sorts, and keep up with people.
Here's to another three years!
Yes, that's right. My friend Julie's dog has a blog:
A Dog's Life
I guess animals ARE part of the family and blogging is a good way to remember puppydom. It's pretty funny.
But...I doubt this would work with my pets...cats sleep most of the time and they don't go on adventures in the city.
A note to my younger sister:
Drunk Dialing my cell is one thing
Drunk dialing our home phone is worse.
Drunk dialing home phone at 12:45 am when Mom and Dad are asleep and the telephone in the next room could easily wake them....that's just, well, dumb.
Thankfully it did not wake them up.
This time, it's Tony Snow who (reportedly) will exit the Bush White House.
Any bets who's next out the door?
On this dreary, rainy weekend, I lounged around and took in several movies:
Win a Date With Tad Hamilton
City of Angels
Under the Tuscan Sun
Copycat
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
And perhaps the most embarrassing to admit watching: the original High School Musical. Quite cheesy, but then again it is supposed to appeal to a younger audience. Why is it so popular? Perhaps because teen girls like Zac Efron.
Ahh ...the wonder of cable TV.
To any readers who may be interested:
The MN State University Student Association began as a collective of student leaders who wanted their voice heard.
Forty years later, MSUSA is one of the strongest statewide student associations in the country.
We invite friends, alumni, and supporters of MSUSA to join us as we celebrate our success of the past and look forward to our future work for state university students.
Hors d'oeuvres will be served.
Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Time: 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: MSUSA's office- 23 Empire Drive Saint Paul, MN
Please RSVP by September 12 by calling the MSUSA office at 651.224.1518/877-224-1518 or emailing Development@msusa.net.
www.msusa.net
Whether or not one agrees with the concept of same-sex marriage, this is pretty funny. What would happen if we were to obey some of God's other laws to the letter?
--------------------
An Open Letter to George Bush
Dear President Bush:
Thank you for doing so much to educate people regarding God's Law. I have learned a great deal from you and understand why you would propose and support a constitutional amendment banning same sex marriage. As you said "in the eyes of God marriage is based between a man a woman." I try to share that knowledge with as many people as I can. When someone tries to defend the homosexual lifestyle, for example, I simply remind them that Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination... End of debate.
I do need some advice from you, however, regarding some other elements of God's Laws and how to follow them.
1. Leviticus 25:44 states that I may possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from neighboring nations. A friend of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can you clarify?
Why can't I own Canadians?
2. I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair price for her?
3. I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of menstrual uncleanness - Lev.15: 19-24. The problem is how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offense.
4. When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a pleasing odor for the Lord - Lev.1:9. The problem is my neighbors. They claim the odor is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?
5. I have a neighbor who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2 clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself, or should I ask the police to do it?
6. A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an abomination - Lev. 11:10, it is a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this? Are there degrees of abomination?
7. Lev.21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle-room here?
8. Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev. 19:27. How should they die?
9. I know from Lev. 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?
10. My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev.19:19 by planting two different crops in the same field. He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town together to stone him? (Lev.24:10-16.) Couldn't we just burn him to death at a private family affair, like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws? (Lev. 20:14)
I know you have studied these things extensively and thus enjoy considerable expertise in such matters, so I am confident you can help.
Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is eternal and unchanging.
-----------
This has been posted in a lot of places...I most recently found it here
Karl Rove is leaving the White House.
This fact makes many people very happy, as he is kind of a sleazy character. I read one article calling this the death knell of the Bush presidency. George is indeed the lamest of all lame ducks. January 2009 can't come soon enough.
I bought my name as a web address in anticipation of creating a website at some point...
For now, www.bernechristiansen.com will direct to this blog.
By now, people anywhere near a radio, newspaper, TV or computer have heard about the terrible bridge collapse here in Minneapolis:
All I can say is HOLY CRAP. This is a bridge that everyone in Minnesota has probably used at one time, and that those of us in the Twin Cities use regularly.
What the hell causes a structure like that to inexplicably fall down? So weird.
Dad and I fished at Lake Winnie with friends this weekend. For me, it was the first fishing trip in three years, and quite a nice time. It's kind of been our traditional father-son activity since I was about 5. The bite was steady, the weather was good, and it was good to get on the water again.
On Saturday night, I attended my 5-year high school reunion. It was an excuse to get out and do something, and was nice to see some folks again, as I really haven't had a great deal of contact with anyone from my class since we graduated--except for Facebook.
It's interesting at this point, because no one has really changed that dramatically, but we are all at varying stages of our "adult" lives. Some people haven't finished undergrad, many are in graduate school, and some are planning weddings and buying houses. Many (well most that bothered to show at the 5 year mark) live in the area. Are reconnections in order? Too soon to say.
One person remembered being in my 3rd grade class...
We've all come a long way since then.
Experts Warn of Lightning Strike Injuries With iPods.
You mean I'm not supposed to use an electronic device in a storm?
DUH!
As I stated in the last post, I had the chance to spend a few days with my grandparents (and aunt, Dad's sister who lives near Denver) in Colorado this past Wednesday-Sunday.
It was a very nice visit. I have enjoyed going out there since I was a kid. They had me out for a visit on my own for the first time when I was 10, and I've been out several times since. I had not been in four summers, so I figured it was time.
In those early visits, every day was meticulously planned with activities to entertain a kid: movies, fishing, trips to the mountains, shopping, swimming and the like. As I've matured, and they've slowed down, visits are much more laid back. We talk a lot about school and politics and life. We read a lot--a former newspaper publisher, Grandpa still reads 3-4 different papers a day. And we still shop, eat out, and travel into the mountains. They also enjoy driving me around Fort Collins to show me what's popped up in since I last visited, as the city has grown a lot in the nearly 20 years they have been there, and continues to...a big city with a small town feel.
Of course, at 84, they move a bit slower and take more naps then they once did, but I am impressed by how healthy and active they are, still getting out and about each day. They know how fortunate they are, as they watch friends decline--and I'm thankful that I can continue to benefit from their love, wisdom and experience. Despite the long distance we have remained close and see each other almost every year, one way or another.
Great old folks, indeed.
Headed off to Colorado this morning to spend a few days with my grandparents. It will be a nice change of pace from my routine since the summer began.
More updates on life upon my return.
Happy 4th of July!
Over the past week there has been quite a bit written on blogs about a potential candidate for the MnSCU Board of Trustees. A sampling:
Taking the Trust out of Trustee
MnSCU Student Trustee Post Becoming Even More Partisan?
NARN - The Patriot - King Banian Interview with Adam Weigold
The Cucking Stool: Manchurian Candidate
The TruthSurfer Blog on Pawlenty and Hellier
Dump Bachmann Reader Comments
My take on this is that if one is being appointed to a seat to represent State University students, he/she ought to have some experience at a state university prior to being appointed. No matter the political stripes, that person shouldn't be a privately educated political operative.
It'll be interesting to see how this plays out.
A bit of an update...
My interview last week was fair. It was very dry, straight Q&A. I got through it but know it could've gone better. In the end I think I was more interested in them than they were in me. Haven't heard anything and don't really expect to.
I have another interview Wednesday, this time for a residential life position at a community college up north.
On Thursday I received a call for an interview. It's for a student life coordinator position at a community and technical college in southern Minnesota. (Won't say which one here yet for fear of jinxing it :-) ) Obviously this excites me...It's one of the positions I applied for that really stood out as something I would enjoy and be good at. It involves working with their student clubs and orgs, student government, etc, and would be a great opportunity and a solid start to a career in student affairs.
The scary part is that this will be my first "real" interview...in, well, my life. I've had a couple of jobs but there was not much of a formal process. The closest thing to an interview process I've had was when I applied for Senate positions, which hardly qualifies as job interview experience.
I guess all I can do is be myself and answer the questions to the best of my ability. I know how unlikely it is to get the first position you interview for--but I also know I can and want to do this job.
Here's hoping things go well come 2:15 Tuesday afternoon.
The first of my two diplomas came today. I am an official college graduate, with paper to prove it!
Spent the last couple of days visiting with relatives in Wisconsin. The youngest of my cousins graduated from high school this year, so there was a party for him. It's always nice to see family--particularly my other cousin who lives in South Carolina, as I had not seen her since we both graduated five years ago.
In our family, we often joke with my dad about him knowing people everywhere we go. After so many years in his business (retail sporting goods) it is not uncommon to run into his customers, even if we are on a fishing trip hundreds of miles from home.
I may be following in his footsteps. Yesterday afternoon, Mom and I drove to Duluth to help my sister with her move to a new house. She was quite surprised to see us, which is another entry in itself. But the funniest part of the evening went something like this--in the car on the way to Grandma's Canal Park for dinner:
Jena: Is that Cody over there?
Me: What?
Jena: Isn't that your friend Cody over there on the sidewalk? The girl he's with is wearing a BSU sweatshirt.
Me, after turning to look and only seeing the side of the guy's head: It looks sort of like him but I doubt it.
Jena: I swear that's him.
We quickly turned around and once I was facing the two people, I could tell that indeed, my sister had spotted none other than Cody James Nelson, in the middle of Duluth. We pulled over and chatted briefly before continuing on our way.
I found this encounter funny because not only is it strange to run into people randomly in odd places, but also because Jena was the one who spotted him. Jena had never actually met him, and only seen Facebook photos and his speech at Commencement, yet was able to pinpoint him from a distance.
Not something that happens every day.
I've been busy the last couple of weeks:
Still here, for now.
Today I completed the final draft of my thesis and turned it in. While I'm aware some folks sneeze at a 20 odd page paper as no big deal, I still consider it an accomplishment. A lot of work and time went into it. I suppose it served as a good warmup for much longer papers ahead when I hit graduate school in a year or two. At any rate, I have completed the largest piece of the puzzle. I still have Standards of Effective Practice papers to finish in the next couple days--what a waste of time, duplicating the kinds of things done during student teaching.
So, here's what I have left to do between now and Saturday:
I'm wondering....should I move my blog?
I have been on Blogger a few months shy of three years. I've been contemplating a move over to WordPress again recently. I had set up an account some time ago, and even imported my posts last week. Part of me wants to try something new, part does not.
What do you think readers? If I moved Berne's World, would you follow?
Tonight was my last Student Senate meeting. Near the end of the meeting, in Points for the good of the Order, I read the following:
As you all are well aware, this is my last Senate meeting. When I joined this organization as a Freshman I never imagined I would still be sitting here nearly five years and an estimated 130 meetings later. It’s almost scary.
I have seen and done many things and worked with many people over the years. The relationships formed and doors opened as a result of being involved are something I am extremely grateful for. I have even chosen a completely different career path than the one that brought me to BSU as a result.
We’ve had some interesting times this year. Good, bad, tumultuous and traumatic. I guarantee that at one time or another, we’ve each thought about throwing in the towel. However, as a team, we have persevered.
I was asked at one point a while back what was “wrong” with Senate. I don’t think anything is, or ever was. Of all the incarnations of Student Senate that I have been part of, I am most proud to say I was a member of this one. Not because I have close friends in the leadership, or got to be called “The SAC” all the time, but because we have come a long way in the last 9 months, through all our ups and downs.
I think Senate really “found itself” this year…as a proactive body rather than a reactive one; a body that truly tries to speak for students and acts with their interests, as well as the University’s, in mind.
This body has great potential. With the high number of returning members, you can truly do great things. Make the most of the opportunity being presented to you…work hard, have fun, and make yourselves, students, alumni and community proud.
I have great respect for everyone in this room. Some of you may disagree with the comparison, but I’ve always likened Senate to a large, dysfunctional family. You are like my brothers, sisters, cousins, etc. I love you crazy kids.
Whether you are graduating or returning, I wish you all the best and sincerely hope you’ll stay in touch. And I hope I get a chance to spend some time with many of you before I blow this pop stand next week.
I will close with the same comment I made at the MSUSA Board the other week…this is not goodbye, it’s see you later.
I did manage to get through the meeting without tearing up, which surprised many, including me. I think it helped to have what I wanted to say written out in advance, however no words can really do justice to what the organization and its people have meant to me during my time at BSU. I'm sure that as I help wrap things up over the next few days I will have lots of time to reflect. If there is one piece of advice I would give a new college freshman it would be this: Get Involved...you'll be glad you did and regret it if you don't.
I know I'm glad I did.
After months of talk, Mom and Dad are FINALLY getting a new computer! And they settled on an iMac as a replacement to our junker PC that hasn't worked in years. And with it, they will leave dial up behind. The Christiansens are going hi-speed.
An excellent choice, if I do say so myself.
Earlier this evening, I returned from my last MSUSA conference as a student. We calculated it today, and in the past five years I have attended:
Lots of work...
Time with the evil SPSS....
19 pages of writing and graphs...
2 pages of references...
1 title page.
What's it all equal? The first draft of a political science thesis.
Brina showed us this the other day in the Senate Office...it's pretty neat, check it out.
I'm all for Free Hugs
These are the crazy weeks of April. Everything picks up and everyone is frantic. The year is slowly winding down, and while we are all ready, we aren't at the same time.
Mom called tonight...my Praxis II scores arrived at the house and apparently I passed, which is good news. I've cleared another hurdle toward licensure, whether or not I choose to use it.
Submitted two job applications today, and a third will be mailed out tomorrow. Fingers crossed.
Senate election re-do this week. If you are a BSU student who has not voted...do so...for CODY AND STEPH!
I feel as though I have neglected this blog the last month or two. I have some more thinking to do about some pending postings...gotta get some thoughts out on here soon.
Many things happening in the last week...some of the major stuff:
1) Finished student teaching
2) Went through the first run of my Student Achievement Day presentation
3) Spent the weekend in the Cities MSUSA Delegate Assembly, which I think went pretty well overall.
It's been a rough couple months...Hopefully April will bring good things.
Spent this weekend in St Cloud for MSUSA Internal Affairs. I was not really enthused about the long bus ride, but all things considered I think it was a good thing to be there. Although we did not get through everything, I think it was a pretty productive meeting. Now looking ahead to Delegates this weekend...it will be long. And will be my second-to-last conference. Pretty weird to think about...
Well, the rest of break was good. I enjoyed having some time at home, but now it is back to the daily grind. It is hard to believe I have less than 2 weeks of student teaching left at this point, and in less than two months I'll be done with undergrad work. As much as I know that's a good thing, I will miss BSU, my activities, my friends, etc. The place and people have become like another home and family to me and leaving that will be difficult.
Two more months...wow.
The trip has been good for the most part. The Summit/conference portion went well and I have been enjoying a lazy day today as I have no legislative meetings. Spent some time on "The Hill" this afternoon taking photos and dropped by one House office building.
As is typical, I have been lost a couple of times. I have absolutely NO sense of direction. Eventually find my way, but it takes a while.
Weather is decent, 55 today. Tomorrow forecast at 73.
Two weeks again....seems like that's becoming a pattern on this thing. Life is crazy. Often I don't seem to feel much like blogging when I do get free time. I resolve to update more, because I still do enjoy it and it helps to put some things in writing.
Things are going just fine. I started a new assignment at the district's Area Education Center on Thursday. My university supervisor thought it would be a good idea for me to experience a different setting and I agreed. It'll be an interesting and hopefully enjoyable way to end my student teaching experience.
In other news, I met about my thesis on Friday and think I have a direction and timeline that will get that back on track...
I took the Praxis II yesterday. YUCK!...
I've been doing a lot of laundry this weekend...
Final thought...Once again recently I have been reminded that I have wonderful friends. I've been really down and stressed out for most of the last couple of months. Some people would have seen that and avoided me and my less than cheery moods like the plague. But there are some out there (you all know who you are, if you read this) that have been incredibly supportive and helpful in keeping my spirits up. Thank you!
I haven't blogged in over two weeks. The funny thing about this is that I have barely noticed. No, I have not lost my love for blogging. Rather, I have simply been too busy with student teaching and the rest of the things my life entails to take the time to post.
Suffice it to say the past few weeks have been busy, hectic, full of struggle and trial and downright exhausting.
It actually happened. They cancelled school in the Bemidji district due to the extreme cold. This on the first day I was scheduled to teach 9th grade, and after I was already sick on Thursday afternoon and Friday. Am I missing a sign here or something??
Yes, I fell victim to the stomach flu. My cooperating teacher actually sent me home mid-day yesterday...lucky thing, as it got worse as the afternoon wore on. Today I've been gradually improving, and am probably 70 % well now.
Being ill=no fun!
Weblogs and Wikis, the original reason for the existence of this blog, is back in session. Check out the Spring 2007 crew on the New Daybook.
In the week since I last posted...
Teaching:
True show time was Thursday…my first full lesson of my own design with both sets of 9th graders, and the first observation by my University Supervisor in 4th.
Both periods went pretty well, although I did make some minor changes to 4th based on what happened in first. Overall, I got pretty positive comments, and we discussed some things to work on:
-Timing: too little group time in first, but almost too much in 4th.
Interaction-Because I stand to the left of the overhead and lean on that desk, I sometimes don’t give that side of the room enough attention…we came up with a couple of strategies to combat this.
I also realized 4th hour might have been more responsive because I have been in front of them three times this week, whereas today was my first experience teaching first. The class that is more familiar with me probably was more comfortable responding.
Big surprise? How quickly a period goes by when you are actually doing the teaching.
Today was an inservice day...I enjoyed the sessions I attended on Apple Universal Access and podcasting. Keynote speech was kind of dull.
T-minus one week until I take over 9th grade on a daily basis. Yikes.
Senate/MSUSA:
Had a good conference in Winona, although it was not without the requisite bumps that always seem to accompany them. I always enjoy seeing my colleagues. Having the day off on Friday was also nice as I was able to catch up with campus errands and visit with Pat about my thesis, and also with Mark.
First day of the term went well. All three classes seem good…although I have to wonder if the rabble rousers are simply on their best behavior early on. We shall see after a few days.
I had my first go at instruction today. I took over a portion of the vocabulary activity in fourth hour after seeing Kristin go through it with first. It went pretty well, although I inadvertently skipped over one of the words on the overhead and we had to backtrack for a moment. Oh well, one of the lessons of the day was “It’s ok to make mistakes” and things were figured out and back on track pretty quickly.
And the second oops…we ran out of English 9 syllabi in fourth hour. So much for triple checking the numbers before they were submitted to copy.
Today’s biggest surprise…how young some of the freshmen seem! Was I really that “little” back then?
Well…the Wednesday morning backlash was averted…the exams were graded on a curve.
I spent the remainder of the week prepping and did some observation. Our kids finished exams and project presentations and then watched films on Friday, the last day of the term.
Tomorrow we get all new students. I am looking forward to taking a more active role in the classroom as I transition into teaching them. It will be fun.
At 7:30 am this morning, as I’m walking out the door, I get a phone call from Kristin. Her daughter is sick with the flu…there will be a sub again. She says she’ll be stopping by the school to leave plans, and asks me if I’d be willing to lead classes for the day. I say yes, figuring I could use some practice before I actually take over classes next term.
First and fourth hours have exams. The Con Lit. kids are to do a sort of write your own test exercise, which to me would be a gift, as there is really no “wrong” answer. Instead…I hear “this is hard” and “this is stupid.” Few finish in the 90 minutes given, but I follow instructions and have them turn in what they’ve got. The situation is similar for the Fantasy Lit group, only they have predetermined questions. A few don’t finish and some others are done far too quickly it seems.
Third hour, Personal Writing, is the most interesting of the day, as they are finishing their journal projects and while doing checks I get a glimpse of the work. It looks like a fun assignment.
My biggest fear for tomorrow? Backlash from the students who did not finish the exams—they’ll ask for more time, complain, and perhaps try to blame it somehow on Mr. C…but I think Kristin agrees with how I handled it based on our phone chat during prep.
Also was thankful the sub was there to help monitor things. I’m still working on the finer points of classroom management and the need to watch some students more closely than others.
All in all though, I would consider my unplanned day at the helm a good one.
On Friday a student approached my desk and told me he’d seen the article about me in BSU’s Horizons publication, where I was featured as a “Senior to Watch.” It was the first time a student talked to me about my “student” life as opposed to my “teacher” life. I have not shared much about myself with these classes, as they will be gone in another week. We had a brief conversation about picking a college. He said he’s considering BSU for business…another potential Beaver in the making.
Also on Friday I was reminded that school in Bemidji is a bit different from my experience in high school. As part of my units I will need to incorporate essays, so I asked Kristin if I needed to build in time in the computer lab. She said yes. This momentarily surprised me until I was reminded that the number of students who have computers at home is probably fewer here than where I went to school in the Twin Cities. At my high school, one was simply expected to turn in typed papers, there was no lab time given. A simple reminder of subtle differences.
Yesterday, the folks at Apple unveiled the much anticipated iPhone. An intriguing product, to be sure, even to folks like me who question the need for "smart phones."
The three biggest problems:
1) Cingular Wireless...have not heard good things about them.
2) The $599 price tag
3) The fact it isn't even available till June.
Sometimes kids hear what they want to. For example:
Student: "We get the whole hour to work on our short stories, right Mr. Christiansen?"
Me: "You'll get some time, but how much is up to Ms. Smith"
Student: " Yesterday, you told us we'd have the whole hour, didn't you?"
Me: "Nope, that's not what I said."
Ultimately, they got the full hour anyway.
I had a couple more cracks at grading today. The teacher will assign the points, but I was asked to give a letter grade. Grading is something it will take time to get used to. To me, the As, Cs, and Fs are pretty easy to peg, but it is sometimes hard to tell where a paper fits in between when there is no cut and dry correct answer, which is frequent in English. I guess it's good that I'm getting some practice now, before I take over the classes and am expected to assign grades on my own assignments without quite as much oversight. Practice makes perfect, they say.
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