in charge

Remember when you would go on vacation with your family and your mom would be overly enthusiastic about everything, making you want to visit the third historic graveyard of the trip even less? No? Maybe that was just our family then.

Remember when you had 8 people in your family scrunched in a hotel room meant for 4 with one lonely bathroom, making the shower schedule in the morning insane? Which meant you had to get up at the butt-crack of dawn so you wouldn't look like a grease ball, in order to visit yet another museum?

Or what about that time your family thought it was frivolous to rent a car to get from Plymouth Rock to the outdoor indigenous museum like 3 miles away, so you walked the whole way (still with your not-so-subtle family of 8) in intense heat? And don't forget about how you complained so much that your parents called a (yes, a as in one) cab for your entire family of 8 for the way back, so you all piled into the back seat as though it were Mary Poppin's purse. But that's fine. At least you didn't have to walk.

the "death walk" from plymouth to the museum. Sorry, ladies, I had to.

And who could forget the time Mom woke everyone up at 5:30 so you could get to early entry at the Magic Kingdom or Epcot or whatever, so you could ride Rockin' Roller coaster one more time?

Rockin' Roller Coaster, 7 am

I think everyone can relate with some ridiculous family vacation stories, because as kids (teenagers, really), there is nothing lamer than being seen with your parents. At 8 a.m. At a museum. With 5 siblings.

So would someone please tell me when I stopped being the complaining kid (grumble grumble, I can't believe Mom's making us do this, gripe complain, go back to texting my friends about how lame family vacation is) and became *gasp* my mom?

I have had plenty of experience traveling with friends and groups. I have even had a little bit of experience chaperoning a high school trip to Colorado, but it was with my best friend. And I was still a college student. Now here I am, overseeing 5 kids in a foreign country by myself. And I discovered a little something that may come as a shock to you:

teenagers have attitudes. 

True story. This specimen of human beings is a mystery to the rest of us, although we were at one point a part of this group. It is difficult, if not impossible, to predict what will make them crabby, what will excite them, and what will make them dissolve into tears. 

Just when I think we're about to do an activity that will change their outlook on life forever, they cross their arms, get a bored look on their face, and mumble something about it not being that amazing. While I may be grinning like a fool, in disbelief of the awesome life I'm living, I look over to find them grouchy and in need of a nap.

For awhile this really bothered me. I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong to make their trip that forgettable. Did I plan boring activities? Am I already that out of touch with what teenagers like?

But after venting to my mother, she gave me 3 simple words that made me see the situation a little more clearly:

welcome to motherhood

I get it now, Mom. I understand the over-the-top optimism and cheerfulness. I get why you dragged us to every historical site. I know now why it was so important for you to experience everything a place had to offer. You wanted us to look back and realize what cool opportunities we had, and not regret missing out on something. You were trying to make the trip memorable, nay, unforgettable for us.

Which also reminds me that I was once that teenager, rolling my eyes and sighing. Pretending to not care about something that I may truly have been excited about. So maybe my students really are having a good time...it's just not cool to show it.

Whew. It's emotionally exhausting to be a leader. Thanks, Mom and Dad, for putting up with 6 teenage (or preteen...possibly worse) girls at once. We really do have great memories of our family vacations...I swear!

What is your most embarrassing family vacation memory?

Pura Vida, and keep dreaming, dreamers.

great expectations

This is actually not a review of the book by Charles Dickens, so if that's what you're looking for, I will now refer you to SparkNotes.

What I'm talking about is the expectations we have when it comes to big changes in our lives. After watching the "corto" or short movie El Mar in our Spanish class yesterday, it got me thinking about what we expect things to be like, and what reality actually brings.

In El Mar, a little boy wants to celebrate his birthday by going to the ocean. As he waits with his mother in the bus station, the camera pans to pictures little Nacho has drawn depicting what he imagines the ocean to be like. The pictures are full of vibrant color, the ocean is full of octopi and brilliant fish. In one picture, he even imagines the sea to be a bright yellow. He tells his mother that in school, they said that the earth is 70% water, just as a human being is comprised of 70% water. He believes we each have an ocean inside of us.

After waiting for hours in the bus station, a long journey to the coast, and a bus breakdown, Nacho and mother finally arrive at the ocean. By this time, it is dark outside, and the sea appears drab, gray, and lifeless to poor Nacho. The sea did not live up to the grandiose image he had in his mind's eye.

But isn't that life? Won't life be better when we have finally switched jobs? When we have finally purchased that one item? When we have moved to the perfect city? When we finally get to take that trip? And then we discover, life just keeps being life. One day at a time. Good and bad, up and down. We get sick of things, or they don't live up to our expectations to begin with. ¡Que decepción! What a disappointment!

I am a daydreamer. There's no denying it. I am constantly looking up flights to exotic destinations. I am constantly scheming about how I can take my next trip. I imagine a romantical city with cute street side cafes, quaint houses, parks teeming with culture and picnics and life, art museums, vibrant markets, and sidewalk vendors with charming personalities. The history! The people! The culture!

This was the case on my second trip to Ecuador. The first trip had been magical, with one adventure after another. The jungle, the beach, horseback riding in the mountains, ziplining, volcanoes, and breathtaking scenery. 5 weeks. Still new and exciting.

Then I spent 4 months in the very same place, and it took on a new personality. One of routine and everyday life. I passed the same shops and people everyday on the way to school. I frequented (mostly) the same restaurants and bars. Sure, adventure was interspersed sporadically into our lives, especially on the weekends, but we were there to attend school. And guess what? School in Quito becomes a mundane activity, just like it does in America.

Did that stop me from daydreaming? I should say not. I still imagine romantic Paris, historic Italy, and quaint Germany. I still hope to become familiar with those places I can only dream of right now. For me, I guess, the lesson is to not let life be a series of disappointments. Find routines you love. Savor your daydreams while you have them. And when you fulfill your dreams, don't let your expectations get in the way of enjoying the reality. Sometimes, reality exceeds even the greatest of expectations.

Have you ever been disappointed by something you had dreamed about?

Pura Vida, and keep dreaming, dreamers!

alone

I love being alone. I love having time by myself to read, write, wander around and take photographs, or even just watch a movie. I feel my social battery recharging whenever I can steal a little time all for myself. It makes me a better conversationalist when I do have to go and socialize with the masses.

Traveling alone is a completely different story. As a chaperon for a high school trip to Costa Rica, I feel like I really am by myself, even though I am surrounded by students most of the time. I am at a host family by myself. That means no one to pick up the slack if I can't think of anymore small talk. That means no one to vent to about the 2 year-old child at my host family's house who keeps biting me (literally leaving teeth marks). It means being a little bit nervous to walk out anywhere by myself, and that I have to go out of my comfort zone to make new friends if I want to go out at night. And most of all, it makes me dependent upon my own Spanish speaking and comprehension skills.

When the tour guides give instructions that are crucial to our safety and well being, or when the school gives a time and place to meet, it is up to me to relay this information to my students successfully. A situation like this could either make someone shut down completely, or it could be an opportunity to grow as a person and as a Spanish speaker.

Since I am in the land of Pura Vida, it is difficult not  to be optimistic about everything. The people are incredibly kind and accommodating, the weather is hot, hot hot, then scenery is humbling, and the culture is one of contentment. How could I not smile, throw my shoulders back, and give it my best shot?

I am by no means a native speaker. I make tons of mistakes. I still get frustrated when I can't convey a particular thought, or when I forget a vocabulary word that I already know.

But I can have a profound conversation with a native speaker. I can finally understand Spanish in a loud bar (not an easy feat...try understanding a second language shouted over speakers pumping out deafening beats). I can make jokes in Spanish. I can easily circumlocute when I don't know the word I'm looking for. Most of all, I feel confident when I speak, and not many things slip past me when I am listening to a native speaker. No longer do I just smile and nod as I pick up one word here or there. I am working my way up the ACTFL inverted pyramid!

I give serious props to those people who travel completely by themselves, especially females. It requires courage, self confidence, and a positive outlook on life.

I hope to try traveling completely on my own at some point in my life. It would be a great opportunity for personal growth.

What are your tips for traveling alone? Would you ever try it?

Pura vida! And keep dreaming, dreamers.

decisions

Life is a series of decisions. You decide what to eat for breakfast. You decide how you're going to behave toward the people closest to you in your life. You decide to stay in a current job or to get a new one. You decide, and you live with the consequences. That is the beauty of our God. He gives us free will to make our life what we want it to be.

When it comes to travel, decision making plays a huge role. Do I have the money to take this trip? If so, is there a better way I could be using this money? Where should I stay? What kinds of activities should I do? How long will the trip last? Should I deliberately miss my flight and stay here forever?

Naturally, one of the largest factors in the decision making process is money, or lack thereof. Those of us who are blessed enough to have the opportunity to travel know that it is not cheap. So making the decision to go on a trip of any kind is a big commitment. So why do it? I could be putting that money toward student loans. Savings. A new wardrobe for work.

If you have read past posts, you know I am an advocate of Dave Ramsey. My husband and I are working to become debt free, and plan to create an emergency fund after that. Dave Ramsey, however, advises his readers not to spend any extra money until they are debt free. Great advice. And we follow it. Usually.

For example, when the opportunity arose to go to Las Vegas with my best friend before her wedding, I didn't even hesitate. Granted, I knew I could get my plane ticket for free (thanks, credit card rewards points!), the hotel was cheap, and I did a lot of extra substitute teaching at the end of the year. Do I want to have a comfy retirement fund when I'm old and gray (if, God willing, I make it to be that old)? Of course. But I don't think I'm willing to sacrifice unforgettable experiences with those I love to get there. I want to have wonderful memories and pictures to look back on when I'm older, not just a stack of money.

I'm normally one to make rational, beneficial decisions. I believe in "everything in moderation," living a healthy lifestyle, and being cheap frugal. But I guess if my parents taught me to be smart with my money, they also taught me to experience and enjoy life, to follow my dreams, and to see the world. As long as it doesn't put me further into debt. 

Plus if I had turned down Vegas, I would have missed out on all this:

Happy hour!

Happy Hour at the Stratosphere - dos por uno!

Delicious martinis and the best view of Vegas!

 Incredible food.

This roasted tomato fondue changed my life.

These nachos had vegetables on them, so they were healthy. It's science.

Walking the entire Vegas strip in one day(and I mean the whole 4 miles), because our bus passes expired, and who wants to pay for a taxi when you can walk?

Right around the time we realized walking 4 miles in 100 degree heat was a bad idea.

M&M store. A candy lover's dream.

I'm taking him home with me :)

This is real. My mecca.

Hoping to catch a showing of "Bite." A risque show about vampires. We never did get around to it...

Get bitten.

And don't forget...Vegas night life! I accomplished one goal from my life list: #54 - take a shot in Vegas. 

Done and done.

And don't forget! I gambled $2! I'm a high roller!

We only played this one because the lever we got to pull on the side was huge!

Vegas 2011. You rocked my socks off.

Do you ever make exceptions to your budget? What do you find to be the pleasures in life worth splurging on?

Keep dreaming, dreamers!

let's see how it goes

So there I was, waiting for my little red suitcase to show its face at the baggage claim. The lines from The Hangover playing through my mind: "Ahem. So how bout that ride in? I guess that's why they call it Sin City. Haha."

My vision was bombarded with advertisements for Celine and David Spade, among other less than savory shows. The Vegas ambiance was in the air. But I had other things on my mind. What mode of transportation would get me to where I needed to be? Would I be able to check into my hotel? The evening was full of uncertainties. You see, I'm not what you'd call a "planner." Sure, when it's absolutely necessary, especially when others are relying on me, I'll make the effort to put a plan or two in place. If it's just me out there, well, it's more fun to just "see how it goes."

Now, the reason I was uncertain of whether I would be able to check in was because the hotel was not booked under my name, my name was not listed under the room, and my people's flight didn't get in until after 10. 'Meh,' I thought, 'if I can't check in, I'll just gamble.' (side note...I don't really know how to "gamble" per se...but the penny and nickle slots sure are fun...especially the ones where you get to pull the lever!). The reason I was uncertain of how I'd get to the hotel was because I just simply didn't make plans. It was time for an adventure.

I meandered outside the airport with my little red suitcase with that same newbie grin on my face, just figuring that some kind soul would point me in the right direction. Sure enough, a kind worker noticed my questioning countenance, and guided me to the booth that read "Shuttle to Las Vegas Boulevard." Aha. Just what I needed.

Once I checked in with my ticket, I asked the employee which shuttle I was to board. Here was our conversation:

"Hi! My ticket is with Bell Transportation. Where should I go?"

"Go across the street, and find the gentleman standing beside the black limo. He'll help you out."

*Chuckle* "Oh no, I only paid for the shuttle, not the limo. Maybe when I'm rich, though. So where should I go?"

*Not amused* "Seriously. The black limo."

The employee knew her stuff! Sure enough, the shuttle was actually a black limo. Now, I'm sure hundreds, even thousands of people take this limo shuttle each week. It's really just another vehicle. It's not that big of a deal. There were dozens of limos outside the airport. So why did I feel so cool riding a limo on the Vegas strip? Because it felt like a scene in a movie, that's why.

Instead of curling up awkwardly with my backpack on my lap in a crowded shuttle bus, I cruised in style with plenty of space and great music, not to mention interesting travel companions. I met a nice couple from Canada who was headed over to Germany after Vegas. The wife spoke 5 languages. I also met a pilot who was only in Vegas for 36 hours, but who cares? The first class flight only cost him $30.

And if you're wondering how my mystery check in went, I will tell you this. A genuine smile coupled with a positive attitude and a humble request goes a long way. The employee at the check in counter faltered at first when I asked if it would be possible for me to check in. When it seemed clear to me that it might be a hassle, I smiled and assured him not to worry, that I would find something to do. Suddenly, he decided to check with his manager and... voila! I was power napping in a hotel room in Vegas.

All's well that ends well.

a lone traveler

I would consider myself a somewhat to moderately experienced traveler.

I remember the days when you could get into Mexico without a passport.

I survived getting frisked and questioned about a bottle of Elmer's glue in Moscow, not to mention figuring out that the arrivals and departures took place at two different airports about 15 minutes apart. Good to know.

I learned the hard way to be vigilant about checking visa laws (I guess sometimes they change without telling you), and had to miss and rebook a flight for the next day in order to take care of some paperwork, paying hundreds of dollars of fines in the process.

I figured out the bus system in Panama because it was cheaper than a taxi. No small feat, let me tell you. (Don't even get me started on bus systems...how is one supposed to know where their stop is if they have never been there before?)

I fended off a would-be mugger who threw me to the ground in an attempt to steal my bag in Panama, in the rain.

But I have never, until now, flown by myself.

Let me explain. I am no stranger to group travel (mission trips, immersion trips, etc.) I have been to 5 countries with my bff April. I studied abroad with Emily 2. But I have never been comfortable as a young female traveling alone.

Recently, however, I had the opportunity to join previously mentioned bff April in sunny Las Vegas, NV for a bachelorette extravaganza. We no longer live in the same state, so planning the trip proved to be a difficult task. She and her sisters booked a flight and hotel, and it was up to me to find my own flight. This suited me just fine, since I had saved up my credit card reward points for just such an occasion. (Free flight...winning).

I honestly didn't even think about what it would be like to travel alone until my husband dropped me off at the airport. And there I was. Alone. An experience that had always seemed so simple and mundane before suddenly had me second-guessing myself. I wandered through the big glass doors of the airport with an awe-struck and slightly dazed expression. The expression of a first-time flier. Smartly dressed business people and seasoned travelers smiled comfortingly in my directing, as if to offer encouragement and support to the obvious newbie.

Not to be discouraged, I took a deep breath, pasted a huge smile on my face, and marched up to the Delta baggage check, ready to take on MSP airport. Just as though I was riding a bike, it all came flooding back to me. Once again comfortable in my own skin, and ready to join the in-transit masses, I allowed myself to relish my favorite airport past times. I treated myself to a new magazine and some McDonalds. I chatted with my fellow passengers. I even enjoyed the in-flight movie when the snores from the elderly lady with the neck pillow seated beside me weren't distracting me.

"All in a day's work." I thought confidently as I disembarked the aircraft. "What was I so worried about?" That is, until I got my luggage, looked around, and realized I had no plan for getting to the hotel. But that, my friends, is a story for another time...

oh hey, blog

So. I guess it has been awhile since I have written a blog post. I honestly have no idea when the last one was written...3, maybe 4 weeks ago?

It started out as taking a few days off for lack of inspiration. School was winding down, summer was drawing nigh, and I had so much to accomplish. I put the blog on the back burner to finish getting final grades in, attend meetings, and wrap up end-of-the-year things.

Then the first week of summer rolled around. And it felt so nice to not have a schedule. I'm sure I am not alone in saying that I am way more productive when I am busy, because I have a sched. and stick to it! Needless to say, I got lazy, I started eating ice cream for dinner, and I avoided the blog some more.

Next, you see, we got a puppy. And suddenly my days were devoted to catering to Pablo's every whim. (Pablo is a yellow lab, btw). Obviously, no time to blog when puppy wants to help you type, then chew your power cord, then lick your computer screen, then have an accident on the carpet.

Hi, I'm Pablo. Aren't I cute?

Before you know it, I was in Las Vegas, NV. Not only was I super busy basking in the sun, walking the strip, and enjoying the nightlife, but I also didn't want to pay $12 per day for internet! Say what?!?! Welcome to 2011, Stratosphere Hotel.  Everyone has free wifi! Get with the program! Needless to say, the blog was put on hold for another week.

When the weekend rolled around, it was Wedding City, baby! Two of my dear friends got married in the same city this past Friday and Saturday! Celebrate, recover, celebrate, recover. I barely had time to open my computer! How could you expect me to write about anything?

Husband and I at a wedding.

There is so much to catch up on! A few bucket list items to check off! Some life lessons learned. This will all be coming to you in the next few days...along with plenty of pictures and stories.

Ah. That felt good. You know how you take a break from working out one day. Which leads to an entire weekend of slacking. Then suddenly you can't imagine even putting on a pair of tennis shoes. And before you know it your muscles have atrophied and you are just a puddle of skin and bones and fat? That's what it felt like to stop blogging. I didn't even know where to start. Didn't know how to jump back in. Finally, I just had to plug my nose, close my eyes, and cannon-ball into the deep end. Refreshing.

Now it's time to see how many unread items are on my Google Reader...yikes.

spring cleaning

Ahhhhhhh. Long weekends. A cornucopia of possibilities. Barbecues, movies, long walks, and spring cleaning with the husband.

OK...maybe spring cleaning doesn't sound that exciting. In fact, if I were still living with my parents, I would be rolling my eyes at the very mention of it. For some reason, though, once you have your own place, spring cleaning doesn't seem so bad! It's revitalizing...rejuvenating...a chance for a fresh start. On the docket for Spring Cleaning '11:

1. Cleaning out and rearranging closets. I used to work in retail, and something about folding clothes so the edges line up just so makes my heart flutter. Arranging them in rainbow color order. Ironing the hanging shirts. Lining up my shoes all nicey-nice. And the part I'm most excited about...getting rid of half my wardrobe! Let's face it...when you're teaching high school students, but you still have tank tops and dress pants from high school, it's high time for a change. (Sisters...if you want to see any clothes before I sell or give them away, let me know. I wouldn't recommend it, though...not cute.)
2. Scrubbing down every nook and cranny of the house. I'll spare you the sordid details.
3. Deep cleaning the laundry room in the basement, and setting it up for the newest addition to our family. No, I'm not preggers...who puts their baby in the basement? Justin and I are getting a yellow Labrador puppy in just  2 weeks! We'll be setting up the kennel, raiding the dollar store and PetsMart for a plenitude of toys, and picking out a cute little leash and collar set for him. Now we just need to pick out a name. Take a look at the cutest lil' bugger you've ever seen:

 After this weekend one more week of teaching before SUMMER BREAK. Ahhh teaching is the best job ever. 

Here are some posts from other bloggers I enjoyed this week:

1. Frugal Dad's take on paying for children's college education. I struggle with this same issue.
2. Ciao Bella's portrait of Jennifer Lopez's hair and makeup. I. Want. That. Hair.
3. My sister Molly's Fitness Week. It inspired me to eat healthy, think positively, and hit the gym hard this week. 
4. Elle's Would You Rather post. I love day dreaming about where I will travel next.
5. Sammy's moving adventures. I can definitely relate, transitioning from carefree college student to "responsible" grown up.

Have a great long weekend. Relax. Celebrate. Refresh.

Keep Dreaming, Dreamers!

friends become enemies, enemies become friends

Anyone who watches Family Guy knows that's a quote from the episode where Stewie taunts Brian about that novel he's been workin' on.

This post is actually not about a novel, and I didn't become enemies with any of my friends. I did however, become friends with one of my "enemies."

Let's call her Lucy. She was one of the students in the first grade class where I was substitute teaching.  There is always without fail, one student who comes up to me before class starts and says, "Is you our guest teacher?" There's one in every class, and in this class it was Lucy. And just like that, my preconceived notion of Lucy was born.

She didn't fail to meet every one of the expectations I had dreamed up about her. She was loud. She was bossy. She fought with other students. And my biggest pet peeve as a sub, she was that student who was in no way shy about telling me exactly how their teacher normally runs the class. (At which point I silence the students, wave the piece of paper in my hand, and say, "Your teacher left me great notes about how to do my job. I think I'll stick with those.") I knew I would have my hands full with Lucy that day.

As much as teachers don't like to admit this, we are human. We form judgments about students. (Especially as a sub...you have about 10 minutes to "get to know" the kids before you start teaching them!) We mentally embrace those easygoing, rule-abiding, high-achieving students, and mentally cringe at the students who we find swinging from a proverbial chandelier the moment we turn our backs. Like I said, we're only human.

Back to Lucy and her first grade class. I had succeeded in using my Love and Logic language on the students that morning. "I listen to students who raise their hands." "We'll start when everyone is quiet, with a calm body and hands in their lap." "It really makes me sad for you that I might have to take away a minute of recess. I hope we can find a way to fix that." The students were responding fairly well, but they were a chatty group, and I was relieved when lunch time rolled around.

The students struggled to form a quiet, straight line to go to lunch, and there was plenty of "budging" going on. My policy is: "Send the Budgers to the back of the line!" Guess who happened to be one of the budgers? That's right. Lucy.

"Sorry, Lucy. You know the rule. What happens when we budge in line?"

"You go to the back."

"That's right. You'll have to go to the end of the line. Bummer."

I expected Lucy to stomp her feet all the way to the back with narrowed eyes and arms folded across her chest. What she did next, I could have never predicted.

Lucy threw her head back, and screamed bloody murder. Then she screamed again. And again. And again.

For a moment, I froze. I couldn't decide whether to laugh, cry, or yell at her. Then, thankfully, common sense and teacher mode kicked in. I calmly told the line leader to start walking toward the cafeteria. Best to take the other students out of the picture. I knew the only way to get Lucy calm would be by remaining calm myself. So I waited for her to run out of breath, and jumped in as soon as I had a second of silence.

"Lucy I know that was very upsetting, but remember that screaming and crying are not going to solve the problem. Please use your words."

No response. More screaming.

I tried a different tactic, "Lucy, if you don't stop crying you're going to have to eat lunch with me instead of with your friends. That would really be a bummer." After all, who wants to eat with the teacher?

Her ears perked up. The screaming turned into a soft whimper and a shaky breath. She took my hand as I helped her off the ground, and we walked to the cafeteria where the rest of the class was waiting in line for hot lunch.

I made sure to thank her for making a good decision: "Lucy, that was a great decision. Now you can stay in the cafeteria for lunch and join your friends!" I veritably skipped back to the classroom, dug into my lunch bag, and sighed with contentment.

Then the door creaked open. Expecting one of the other first grade teachers coming to check in on me, I pasted a confident, professional smile on my face. Instead, I saw Lucy balancing her tray in one hand as she pushed open the door with the other. She was grinning from ear to ear, excited, excited, about eating with the teacher. My heart sank. The peaceful lunch I had dreamed of was slowly slipping away.

Wanting to avoid another scene, I tread carefully the uncharted territory I was about to embark upon.

"Lucy! Hi! I'll walk you back down to the cafeteria where you can eat with your friends."

"But you said I could eat with you!" Oh, how my intentions had been misunderstood. That was supposed to be a punishment!

"Remember that since you made the right decision, Lucy, you can eat in the cafeteria with the other kids. Let's go!" I herded her out the door and down the stairs. She reluctantly followed behind, but I could tell she was ready to blow at any moment.

Then it happened: "But I want to eat with you-ou-ou!" She gasped in between sobs. I did not have the energy for this. As I was on the verge of losing my patience, a teacher's assistant thankfully heard the ruckus, and rushed over to help. She steered L to the caf, and instructed me to go take my lunch break. #relief

At recess, Lucy walked over and joined me on a bench. 'Perfect opportunity to make a connection,' I thought.

"So, Lucy, are you doing better?"

"Yeah."

"Can you tell me about why you were so upset at lunch?"

"I guess I was just stressed about my mom and dad."

Understanding was beginning to dawn upon my judgmental mind. "And why were you stressed about that?"

"I just don't know when my dad will get out of jail." Lucy avoided eye contact.

Feeling terrible about myself, I prompted her, "So you're living with just Mom?"

"No. My mom's in rehab. I'm living with my gramma." She fiddled with her name tag.

At this point I wanted to kick myself. "Grandma takes good care of you, though, right?"

Lucy nodded. "She takes care of me and my sister - she's one years old."

"That must be really tough, Lucy." What else do you say when using God's Word is not an option?

We decided together to make the afternoon better.

I couldn't believe how we shared a connection the rest of the day. Whenever I could tell she was starting to get rambunctious, I made eye contact with her and smiled. She would smile back, and the situation would be immediately smoothed over. At the end of the day, we even hugged before I left.

So what's the point?

1. Love and Logic really works. When your students know you really care about them and have their best interest in mind, they want to behave for you. The problem with substitute teaching, is that you don't have the opportunity to form that relationship and trust. 
2. I am so grateful and in awe of those public school teachers. The work they do with large classes and challenging students, among other issues, is incredible. 
3. I am grateful that I will have the opportunity to use God's Word in the job I have next year. It's really hard to avoid talking about your Savior when a student has a difficult situation. Every child I teach is a blood-bought child of God. If he loves them, they are also worthy of my love and kindness.
4. A great reminder to "Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some sort of battle." (not sure who originally said this. Some say Plato, some say John Watson.) Christ showed this kindness to me first, even when I was still dead in sin. 

Make someone's day through your kind words or actions. Especially the most ornery, angry, or mean person you can find. 

Keep dreaming, dreamers.

health and wellness week

This week fellow blogger and sister, Molly is discussing health and wellness. The challenge is to find what inspires you to be a better person. And I know you are all absolutely dying to know just what it is that makes me tick. So here it is...

Living a healthy lifestyle wasn't always important to me. Let's rewind all the way back to 3rd grade. I was a skinny, long-legged, athletic kid. A tomboy at heart, I was always active in sports, and like most kids, I just ate whatever I wanted! That year, I got involved in competitive dance (tap, jazz, ballet, etc.) which kind of took over my life (in a good way!). By 7th grade I was at the studio 6-7 days/week, plus got involved in school sports. As active as I was, though, my eating habits were atrocious! Balancing school, sports, and dance left me hungry, and I tried to fill that void with Little Debbie treats, sugar cereal, glass after glass of chocolate milk, Oreos, baked goods, and white bread galore. Yikes!

Add to that unhealthy diet the fact that I developed earlier than my peers, and I'll admit that I felt like I was overweight. I wasn't...but I was more what they refer to as "skinny fat." I knew I had to make a change.

So, I got a subscription to Fitness magazine. I started carrying a water bottle with me everywhere I went, I gave up soda, and started eating more salads. Little Debbie was banned from our house. Mom introduced wheat bread. And I began jogging our 2-mile neighborhood. The world of heath and fitness was open to me for the first time.

With each passing year of high school, I lost a little weight. I was learning more about fitness, and high school sports challenged me to push my body to its limit. By the time I reached my college graduation, I had lost almost 10 pounds from my 8th grade year. For a 5 foot 4 girl, every pound counts.

What I learned from the whole experience was this:

• Being healthy is not a number on the scale. When I replaced all that junk food with nutritious food, I felt better about myself and I had more energy.
• I can still have the sugary food I crave...IN MODERATION. Balanced with fruit, the occasional vegetable, and protein.
• God has given me the precious gift of health. I have two working legs and arms, a great set of lungs, and a healthy heart. I need to treat my body with respect with healthy food, exercise, and positive thinking. 

So what inspires me? A desire to not go back to my old ways. Success stories in Fitness magazine. Pictures of other women who have achieved defined abs. Friends who work out consistently. And most importantly, every blessing God has given me that I don't intend to waste.

Keep dreaming, dreamers!

 

What inspires you to live a healthy lifestyle?

mind on my money

I seriously wish we never had to deal with money. If we could switch to some sort of bartering system, I would surely be ok with that. Perhaps you know of my love/hate relationship with budgets. They are so darn useful, and easy to manage once you get the hang of them. Budgets help you track your spending, and stay organized with your monies. At the same time, they are hateful. I am a words person, not a numbers person, so all that math sometimes gives me a headache. 

I have come to the realization, though, that love it or hate it, I have to deal with the money that comes and goes from my bank account. I can be super organized about it, and put my money to work for me, or I can be lazy and irresponsible with the blessings God has given me. 

Money has been on my mind a lot lately. We just had both of our cars repaired (booooooo), recently paid our taxes, just finished paying for my Costa Rica trip this summer, are planning how much we'll need to spend for Vegas and all the weddings we are attending, and we are in the process of getting a little baby puppy!!! On the other hand, I am patiently awaiting July when I will start getting paid my full time salary for my new job. I feel like I'm on a fiscal roller coaster! 

Justin and I have a couple goodies in mind that we would like to purchase once that new salary starts rolling in (new laptop, anyone? puppy!!! real grown-up teacher clothes). However, I know that after we get over the initial glee of having a little financial breathing room, it will be back to the same ol' budget. The same ol' tracking of our spending, and the same ol' frugal ways. It's a little monster called student loans my friends. We are hoping to live off one salary, and use the other one to pay off those pesky loans in 2-3 years instead of taking the full 10 years.

I hate the feeling of owing anything to someone else. I love the idea of being independent and free. So we are going to work our butts off to be free of debt, so we can start saving for travel, retirement, and future children's college funds.

Even though I can't live in a magical world of barter, I remind myself every day of my goals and what is important to me. When I know that the hard work is for something I really care about, it's not such a chore anymore.

Keep dreaming, dreamers.

Is your mind on your money?

the memory making business

I snapped the white gloves on my wrist and stared my food in the eye. The cuy, or guinea pig stretched across my plate, taunting me with his taut skin and almost life-like facial features. I lost the staring contest with the guinea pig, and instead caught the eye of my best friend. We shared a knowing smirk. Another country, another cultural experience, another new food. In Russia it was the kvas, complete with floaty things, and in Mexico it was the cactus. In Ecuador, it was the traditional Andean entree - cuy.

I reached for my digital point and shoot camera, knowing that this was a moment to remember. The time I ate guinea pig in Quito, Ecuador.

Picture I stole from someone on Facebook because I don't have any pics from the day we ate cuy

So I turned on my camera, aimed that bad boy at my friends across the table posing with their gloves, and snapped the shot. I hit the playback button to make sure no one had a double chin, only to find <<bum bum bum>> the error message. All of my pictures from the entire trip had been deleted. On week 4 out of 6. I didn't accidentally hit delete. I didn't drop the camera. The pictures simply took a permanent vacation to the Lost Picture Island.

People. This was devastating. I had pictures of cultural land marks. Pictures from going to the equator. Pictures from the jungle. When am I ever going back to the jungle?!?!

I know some people don't even take their cameras on huge, unforgettable trips. They don't want to be "stuck behind a lens." I admire those people for being content with their mental snapshots. Their given-to-error and rose-colored glasses memory. These people just want to live in the moment without having to worry about taking care of of expensive technology.

I am definitely NOT one of those people. I want the tangible memories. I am that person that sits in front of my laptop for hours scrolling through my iPhoto laughing, crying, sighing, and longing to be back in some other country. (I think I got this from my mom. She has shoebox upon shoebox, album upon album of memories. The decor in my parents' home is pictures).

How could this happen? How could technology fail me so?

In my photography class tonight, the instructor walked me and 4 old/middle aged men through the basics of digital photography. One thing I learned is that when it comes to memory cards, quality matters. It's NOT WORTH IT to pinch pennies and save money on the cheap one. In addition, apparently you're supposed to "format" your card on your camera every time after you upload your pictures onto your computer. You can find this function on your camera under menu. Who knew? If you don't do this, and if you always upload your pictures by connecting your camera to the computer using the cable it comes with, you end up with corrupt files (or something...details aren't my thing). Another way to ensure your memories are safe: use several memory cards, and rotate them throughout the trip. That way if one is ruined/lost/stolen, at least you have some pictures!

Lesson learned. When you pay that much money for a piece of technology, learn how to use it and take care of it. Otherwise, you risk losing all those tangible memories. And when you're in the memory making business, as I am, such a loss is hard to recover from.

I ended up enjoying the last 2 weeks I had in Ecuador. I'll admit, it was nice to have free hands, and not worry about constantly taking out my camera. But even to this day, I have nothing to show for my trip when I want to make a presentation for my students, or scrapbook, or something. The good news is, I ended up returning to Ecuador, and was able to recreate some of the shots I lost next to landmarks, and the equator. Unfortunately, I lost all those captured moments, the laughs shared with friends, and the people I shared the trip with.

The equator - round 2

Well, now I know. I am now looking forward to creating new memories on my next trip.

Keep dreaming, dreamers!

Have you ever had technology malfunction at the worst possible moment?

Do you take pictures, or are you more the "live in the moment" type?

presentations

There are some days when I absolutely, 100%, without a doubt love being a teacher. Sure, there are days when I think of the glamour another profession might bring, and there are other days when I think of how nice it would be to be surrounded by other adults. But most days, I am so thankful that I know I picked the right career.

Today was one of those days.

Let me preface by saying that the month of May has been kind of a slump. I'm almost done with the part-time jobs I currently have, and in July I look forward to starting my dream job - teaching Spanish and German full time in a Lutheran school, and coaching freshman volleyball. I can't wait to really feel like part of the faculty. To have my own classroom. Looking to the future, and not being present in my current jobs can sometimes put me in a bad mood. I don't prepare for class as much as I should. I don't push myself to be creative. I'm not the best teacher I can be.

BUT, today I think I accomplished one of my life list goals as a teacher.

For the past month or so, we have been focusing on travel vocabulary, and my students' final project is to plan a trip to a Spanish speaking country with a budget of $2500. I wanted this project to give them a sense of what planning a trip would be like in real life with a real budget. They had to find a flight, find places to stay, pick 3 destinations to visit within their country of choice, and include tips for travelers, cultural differences, typical food of that region, and 10 need-to-know Spanish phrases.

Today was the start of their presentations. Before class, one of my students who tends to be a bit negative passed me in the hallway.

"Mrs. Krause, your project is going to drain my bank account," he complained.

"What!?!" I was confused, and feeling a bit defensive at his remark. To understand my defensiveness, you need to know that these students are seniors, just completed their huge senior thesis, and are overloaded with end-of-the-year projects, papers, and presentations. As a 3-day-a-week class, Spanish is often put on the back burner. I have been a bit on edge lately about my students not getting their work done.

Turns out, though, that this was a compliment in disguise:

"Yeah," he continued, "after doing this project, all I want to do is travel. I really want to go on the trip I planned, and I can't afford it!"

Sha-zam! Teachered!

#103 on my life list = Inspire a student to travel

After all, it was a teacher who opened my eyes to the world of travel. It's the least I can do to "pay it forward."

(And FYI, their presentations were awesome!)

On a completely unrelated note...it finally feels like spring! I am loving my afternoon drives home from work. Windows down, country music blasting on the radio, shades on, and singing my lungs out. I'm kind of a spectacle.

Keep dreaming, dreamers.

 

What is your dream job?

What inspires you to travel?

gringo bingo

One of the most educational aspects of being a traveler, for me at least, has been learning what it feels like to be a minority. As a blonde-haired, blue-eyed Caucasian in the midwest, I have always been physically homogeneous with those around me.

Not so in Ecuador, Panama, Mexico, Colombia, or apparently Russia. In South and Central America, as many of you have experienced, blonde (or red) hair sticks out like a sore thumb. Sometimes this works in your favor. Sometimes it brings unwanted attention. Most of the time, it provides a good story.

1. While studying in Ecuador, my friend Emily and I would walk the 2 miles to school every day to save money and get exercise. The excessive amount of comments, cat calls, and come-ons we received in the span of these walks was incredible, but more importantly, the content was hilarious. (Ex. "Soy Latino!" Oh. Well in that case, here's my number and the address of my host family.). When we compared notes with our new friend Courtney, who also walked to school, we ended up with the game gringo bingo. We literally created game boards. You X out a box every time you receive that comment. Examples: angel, mi reina (my queen), and bonita (everyone gets that...it might as well be a free space). 

2. While strolling through the town of Baños, Ecuador, a group of teenagers began shouting out countries, trying to guess our nationality. "Suiza! (Swiss) Alemana! (German) Inglesa! (English)," and when we refused to acknowledge them, it finally came to, "China! (Chinese)!"Well played, teens. Well played.

In Baños

3. This story, unfortunately, demonstrates how closed minded people can be. When a group of us was walking in the city of Tomsk, Siberia, Russia, we spotted an elderly man feeding the birds (tuppence a bag). He seemed so sweet. That is, until he noticed that we were American, and proceeded to throw the seed at our feet, so the ballsy pigeons would attack us. Let me tell you, I was more afraid of the birds than they were of me. *Shudder*

The scene of the crime - Tomsk

Mother Russia?

April + I in our "prime" in Siberia

4. Let's end on a good note. This one is by far the cutest example. After jumping off a bridge in Baños, I ended up chatting with a 4-year-old on vacation with her family. Apparently, she had never seen a white person, because these were some of the questions she asked me: "So, have you always been white?" "Are your parents white?" and when I told her I had sisters "So...are they white, too?" Adorable. It just goes to show that everyone's worldview is different. We are a product of our experiences, and it's hard for us to imagine life outside of what we know.

That is why I travel. To know more about this incredible world we live in. To meet more people and learn their stories. To open my mind to what others are experiencing. We all look different, but that doesn't mean we can't share some great encounters! 

Have you ever stood out for your appearance?

stormy weather

Crazy apocalyptic weather in Minnesota today! 

I spent the day trapped inside, substitute teaching in a French classroom. Soup du jour. Baguette. Jaques Cousteau. Side note: how do you respond to a student who replies to your request to take notes on the movie, "I don't take notes." And the student beside her says, "Yeah, she doesn't take notes." Oh, um, good luck with the rest of your education. I was hoping the inquisitive look on my face summed up my feelings, but I don't think the message sunk in. 

Anyway, my spirits were lifted when I sauntered out of that school at 4:15 to find sun, heat, and humidity. Humidity, oh how I've missed you. I rolled down the windows, blasted the radio, and decided it was the perfect afternoon to use the last $2 on my Starbucks gift card. Today, apparently, was my lucky day because it was "happy hour" at the 'Bucks when I ordered my delicious light mocha frappuccino. (On a scale of 1-10, how white do I sound right now?) 

The night ended on a perfect note with a cozy lil' thunderstorm. Here are some photos I captured with my point and shoot camera. (We're house sitting, so I didn't have my SLR with me).

By no means professional, but the lighting was really cool, so I couldn't resist the opportunity to get some snapshots!

What's your favorite season?

What makes a perfect afternoon?

whirlwind weekend

What a weekend! At the cost of abandoning the ol' blog, the past few days have been a whirlwind of activity!

Primero, I took a mental health day on Thursday. Substitute teaching is great money, but it really drains me mentally, emotionally, and even physically. Babysitting a group of 30 ten-year-olds who refuse to listen, do work, or stand in a straight line without talking, and whose names I don't know, is NOT the same as teaching. Every time I walk into a foreign school to sub, I repeat my mantra to get me through the day: money for travel, money for travel, money for travel.

So on Thursday (I only sub Tuesdays and Thursdays), I decided that it was going to be a personal day. I was still feeling icky from Tuesday's job (and other happenings in life), and couldn't figure out how to shake the blues. After an hour of journaling, Bible reading, and prayer, I was ready to do something positive, and accomplish something on my life list!

That's right. I bled my own blood for the American Red Cross. It was so easy, and I'll admit, I felt like it was a selfish way to make myself feel better, but if someone got some good, clean blood out of it, I guess it turned out ok.

Movin' on to Saturday. I finally got a chance to see my baby sister play some volleyball! She was playing in a tournament about 1.5 hrs away, so Justin and I made the drive to see her dig the ball like crazy. She's a great little libero, and getting better by the day!

She's a beast!

I'm always talking about being a tourist in my own city, and trying to be more a part of the community. Well, Justin and I had a wonderful opportunity to do just that. Some friends invited us to run alongside them in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5K. It was my first 5K, and I was kicking myself for not adding "run a 5K" to my life list, just so I could cross it off :)

We had the perfect weather (oh so rare in Minnesota) and enjoyed exercise, sun, and good vibrations with about 50,000 other people! Way to go Metro Twin Cities! It was so uplifting to see so many people come together to raise money and awareness for breast cancer.

The guys - still have energy after running 3 miles

Finally, happy belated Mother's Day to my beautiful, hard-working mother! A more selfless example was never set. She's our mom, teacher, driver, secretary, party planner, chef, cheerleader, maid (sorry), and life coach. Thanks, Mom, for never accepting less than our best. You still teach me so much about what it means to be a faithful wife and mother.

Mommy and her girls

Happy Mom's Day, also, to my mother-in-law (probably the best one out there), and to Nana and Grandma. I've got a lot of great moms in my life :)

So much to be thankful for. 

How do you get involved in your community?

What's the greatest thing your mom has taught you?