Sixth Grade Hooligans

No more “Good Morning Miss Roberts!” followed by a big hug each morning. Now I am worried that I will be faced with an “Oh hey” or a weak smile. At the beginning of the term I was devastated to learn that I was placed in a sixth grade classroom for my Winter Practicum as a teaching program student. I was in a first grade classroom the term before and absolutely loved it! The students loved going to school and had so much enthusiasm. Honestly I was nervous about my placement in the sixth grade classroom.

 My first day went much better than I thought, however, and the crazy sixth graders are starting to grow on me. They are funny, understand my jokes and sarcasm, and they are independent. Last Friday, one of the students led a craft for the class. They made the most adorable little reindeer out of wine corks. I even got to make one! The class is a little rough, and I know I will have my work cut out for me when I teach my practice lessons, but it will be worth it!

This week’s lesson:

Don’t be afraid to try something new!

A Very Special Day

Today is a very special day! Seventeen years ago on this exact day, my life changed forever. I became a big sister! Four short years later, my blonde haired, blue eyed little sister was almost taken back. She was mutton busting (riding a sheep) at the local family rodeo. It all happened so quickly. One moment she was on the sheep and the next moment she was lying unconscious in the dirt. She was rushed by ambulance to the hospital, then life flighted to Boise, Idaho (the closest children’s hospital). My brave little sister spent over a week at the hospital, at least half of the days spent in the ICU. There was bleeding in her brain and none of us knew her fate. Would we ever bring her back home?

 One day, she awoke with a start and began talking to my mom; progress! Slowly, day by day, she began her condition improved and she was released from the hospital! Once home, she had to relearn everything… she had to be potty trained and even learn how to walk again.

 Now my baby sister is a junior in high school. She is a star varsity athlete and at the top of her class academically. No one would have imagined she would be where she is today. She is smart. She is athletic. She is strong. She is beautiful. I am proud to be her big sister! Happy Birthday Carsyn Jean! <3

Slice of Life - Viva Las Vegas!

School has started up once again and I can’t say that I am not excited. I am not looking forward to all of the work, but I love being in the classroom!

While working on my ever-growing list of assignments, I can’t help but look back at my winter break experiences. Having recently turned twenty-one, my mom planned a trip to Las Vegas! I knew this trip was going to be amazing, but testing as well because we were not only taking one of my grandmas, we were taking both! After surviving a quick flight and one very aviophobic grandma, we made it!

We spent three days exploring, playing slots, dancing, shopping, and most importantly laughing. I was in awe as we took in the water show, the strip at night, and the beautiful hotels. My favorite place was old Freemont Street. I met up with my roommate from freshman year and had the time of my life. I became closer to my mom and learned that my grandmas are two of the wisest people I know. In the end, I wouldn’t have rather went with anyone else!

This week’s lessons:

Appreciate the people in your life, especially family. Be smart, live in the moment, and make your life worth looking back upon. Cheers!