Very interesting book--especially after our conversation about student "expectations". This book made me stop and think about what we actually expect from teenagers. In the context of brain development I really have a lot to think about. This book has a definite Christian slant to it, but I can apply everything said in the book to almost every part of life--and I mean not just teenagers. I think this is a must read for those of us who work with teens or have teens living in our homes. Definitely a perspective that needs to be considered.

Fun Saturday!

Well, it was fun for some of us anyway! I hope it wasn't too painful! The stories were great and I am actually thinking about adding a "Whack a Mole" game to the agenda next summer. Wonder where I can find one?

It is always gratifying that I actually enjoy being with the MAT students. This group seemed a little more up-beat than previous semesters. I know this is a tough semester and, in spite of all the "experiences", they seem to be doing fairly well. I am looking forward to next semester when we are all together as a group. There has to be something wrong with me!

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod

I bought this book last summer and, honestly, it has been at the bottom of my "pile" for a while. It finally said, "Read me, read me" and I responded. As I begin to read a book I thought would be just another "vampire" book, I was pleasantly surprised. It reminded me of Twilight--without the sexual tension and Harry Potter because Vlad lives with the fact that his parent's had been mysteriously murdered. Oh, I forgot, Vlad is a vampire who tries to live a normal a life as possible. He does drink blood but his "aunt" (guardian) works at a hospital and brings home "almost expired" blood for him. Vlad and his best friend Henry, who knows he is a vampire, and typical 8th grade guys, thinking about girls, but not sure what to do with them yet. Many questions are raised in this first book and I, for sure, will read the next book to find out how Vlad deals with not only trying to be a "normal" 8th grader (is that possible?) but also the fact that his life is in danger and he doesn't understand why.
I also found some cools links about the author of the book, Heather Brewer, and some YouTube videos. I think there may be a movie in the works or at least some graphic novel-type series. You might want to check these outwant to check this out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCv2Z30ZQ-A

A Day in the Life of a 7th Grader

Lunch is always a highlight at any school! Shelly and I enjoyed hamburgers and fries. We ate quickly but yet, didn't have enough time to enjoy our lunch. How do the students manage to eat so quickly and still be social?

Whew!

This has been my "catch-up "weekend but I'm not sure I'm "caught-up." Last week was a very interesting week--doing something I completely enjoy--visiting classrooms! The week started out with my annual "Day in the Life of...". (Last year, I did a "Day in the Life of a 6th Grader--this year I moved up to 7th grade!). I can truthfully say, I had so much fun! Shelly Wolfe, a current MAT candidate, accompanied me. We started the day at 7:45 and lasted until the day was over, 3:15ish. Seeing the day from a student's perspective should be required of every teacher. We often see from only one perspective--our own. Personally, I don't know how these guys are able to focus on anything. They change classes every 50 minutes or so. Each teacher has a different management style (what if I forget what this teacher expects of me?) About the time I get focused on one subject, it's time to change! Something to think about.
It happened to be raining las Monday so, instead of going outside after lunch, the boys sat quietly in the gym for 20 minutes (glad I didn't have to keep them quiet!). The girls were allowed to go stand at the from of the school under a covered drive for their 20 minutes.
During the past week I visited in 6 different schools--4 different schools systems. Amazing differences in classroom management styles, the way content in presented, teacher/student engagement...many things. I visited in 3rd, 6th, 7th, and 9th grades. Much to ponder.