August 31, 2004
School Supplies
So far this year, I've purchased a box of paper ($28), folders and notebooks ($13), cables to hook up *my* computer to the classroom TV for presentations and movies ($14), dry erase markers and various supplies ($20), and a toner cartridge for the school's laser printer ($92 refurbished). And that's just three weeks into the year.
My campus has no paper for copies. Every teacher in the building has begged, borrowed, or bought their own paper. The district, in its infinite wisdom, purchased huge laser printers--for the one computer in each room--whose toner cartidges cost around $325 (they refuse to consider refurbished) to replace. Needless to say, we ain't gettin' new cartidges anytime soon and I'm actually breaking district policy by buying a refurbished one. Their response? "Just shake the cartridge a little." Ridiculous.
August 27, 2004
Growth Spurt
Molly had a triumphant visit to the doctor yesterday. Surprisingly, all her measurements fell into the 25% or better range--25 inches long, 13.9 lbs. She wasn't even on the charts before, meaning her size was way below normal and cause for concern. But, as Dr. Raine said, "She's experienced a great deal of catch-up growth." The nurse measured Molly's head four times to confirm the growth because the change was so significant. Additionally, the doctor was impressed with her head control and trunk stability, which I suppose means her ability to hold herself stable.
I knew she was growing quickly, but this visit surpassed our most positive outlook for her. Grow, Molly, grow!
August 24, 2004
Media Garbage
Don't you wish all media devices had a lie detector built in? I mean, wouldn't it be cool if, when you're watching or listening to a "fair and balanced" reporter, a little light would come on indicating a conscious avoidance of the truth?
And wouldn't it be neat if, during a commercial, a pie would sail in from off-screen and smack a liar in the face as they tried to sell you yet another worthless product? Or, especially during this political season, an electrical shock were administered for every innuendo, misleading statement, euphemism, or outright lie that was uttered?
August 14, 2004
Molly is six months old
Six months ago today, a little bundle of hope and happiness was delivered way too early. Her parents were of course thrilled but uncertain what the future held for their child. Times were scary.
Six months later, all fear is gone, replaced by a relaxed confidence that Molly is a normal, healthy baby whose personality is happy, curious, and content. Denise and I have both returned to work, and Molly is spending her day with a wonderful sitter, getting bigger and more animated every day.
Happy birthday, Molly
August 11, 2004
Nana Visits
My mother paid an extended visit to Molly this past week. She had planned to visit for four days, but our sitter's husband had surgery, so Nana giddily volunteered to postpone her return flight for five additional days and sit with Molly while Denise and I started school.
Now, if you're like me, the idea of your mom spending more than a week with you can be, well, taxing on the private space, if you know what I mean. But a baby has a way of changing the dynamics of relationships, and the days passed too quickly, which I think means we were having fun.
Thanks, Mom.
P.S. We took advantage of the free babysitting to retile our bathroom.
August 09, 2004
First Day of School
Well, the first day back at school proved to be a winner. First, the entire AISD faculty--all 7,000 of us--crammed into the Nokia Live theater for convocation only to find out that the scheduled speaker couldn't make it. The superintendent spoke eloquently for 30 minutes, the faculty orchestra played a couple tunes, and we went home. I wonder how many thousands of dollars the district spent to use the facility to accomplish approximately nothing.
The afternoon was no better. I found out, by chance, that my assignment has been changed to Junior English regular and AP. Nobody bothered to tell me I'd be teaching regular English III, and I wonder if I would have made it to the first day of class without being told. Plus, I'm now Junior team leader. I don't even want to be. I'm an Indian, not a Chief, and don't want the extra responsibility. I wasn't even asked if I wanted the position.
It's gonna be a long year.