One of an array of reasons that I am a teacher is because I truly love to learn. I may be the one delivering information to my students through a variety of lessons, activities, and texts throughout the school year, but it's truly reciprocal. They take me back to what it's like to be a fifth grader, they help me learn how to be a better educator, and they even reveal to me much about myself. Humbling, yes. Also pretty neat when I stop and think about it.
Earlier this week, I began a new journey as a teacher... I have begun my first course in my Language Education master's degree program. I'll admit I was a little nervous at first. It's daunting to think of juggling my teaching career with going to class, thoroughly reading, and writing papers. I'm continually amazed by teachers who do it all, and they remind me that I can do it too! I have to say that being back in a classroom as a student for two class sessions now has been exhilarating. I love discussions and learning about new information and ways of thinking. I'm especially intrigued by the variety of individuals in this foundations course. We come from an array of educational areas, and a few of the individuals aren't actually even teachers but work in closely related fields. It takes me back to my Hanover days to participate in discussions and to be challenged in my thinking as others share their ideas, experiences, and interpretations.
I want to be a lifelong learner, and this is just another step in that path. It's wonderful to feel so empowered by knowledge.
6.30.2011
6.26.2011
In the Kitchen with Cassie
I love food. Wait, let me try that again. I LOVE food. Not in that gross, "I really should put down the bag of potato chips and go for a run" kind of way (ok, I'm guilty of that sometimes just like everyone else), but in an "I appreciate the endless diversity of flavors and possibilities" way. You fellow food appreciators out there, you get me. My favorite way to experience new dishes is when someone a lot more expert than me is fixing them, but sometimes you just have to roll up your sleeves and enter the ring yourself.
Today was one of those days. I hope I haven't built up your hopes too terribly high. I didn't make a fancy dish whose elegant French name I would butcher in pronunciation. No, today's baking adventure was inspired by some leftover blueberries, a little bit of internet searching/blog reading, and my grandma's exquisite homemade pie crust recipe. Isn't Sunday wonderful in that it lends so much time to slowing down and enjoying a good meal with the important people in your life? Today, in addition to trying out a couple of recipes for baked chicken and roasted carrots, I tried my hand at making mini blueberry pies. Oh so cute! My wonderful (and brave) boyfriend was willing to be the recipient of the meal and my co-taste tester of the baking experiment...
I would like to report that my mini blueberry pies turned out pretty well, but I have some tweaking to do with the filling. The regular blueberry pie recipe I followed called for the berries, sugar, cinnamon, and corn starch. Once baked, the blueberries were very juicy, but I was hoping that the corn starch would have led to a little more syrupy juice too. Any suggestions fellow bakers? I'm taking advice!
Nonetheless, I was proud of my cute little desserts! I'm imagining how fantastic some tiny little lemon meringue pies would be. Oh the possibilities!
6.23.2011
Simply Inspired
Today we wrapped up the third day of the writer's workshop I have been attending (and which I mentioned in my last blog post just a few days ago). To say that it was impactful doesn't do it justice. I was simply inspired. The lessons taught by the talented presenter were so valuable to me, and I can't wait to translate them into my own teaching come August.
Aside from the professional growth I experienced in these sessions, I was also inspired in a whole other way. As I last wrote, one aspect of the conference was for the attendees to participate in writing time and to each begin constructing a work of our choice. I began a piece that touches me deeply, that connects me to my childhood and more importantly to my heart. I can't wait to see where it takes me.
Another profound thing that I witnessed was the dual nature of the writing experience in relationships with other conference attendees. On one hand, we each were working on our own unique pieces of choice. Some were bent over their notebooks frantically scrawling words on the page before they forgot the perfect phrases, yet still others paused to wipe the solitary tears that had slid down their cheeks as their writing had released emotions and memories that still sting. While allowing us each the chance to reflect and work individually, it also brought us closer together through our sharing and growing (albeit little in such a short time) as writers.
In wrapping up the conference, our presenter Katie Wood Ray asked us to each choose no more than twenty words of our writing to share with the entire group. While standing in an enormous circle, we passed the microphone from hand to hand and bravely presented our ideas to the other educators. It was beautiful to hear the intricate crafting that some had labored over, the witty remarks, and the soulful thoughts. It was humbling to hear the skill of many gifted writers, yet taught me lessons in the value of each unique style.
After these three days, I can only sum up such a great experience by telling you that I am simply inspired.
Aside from the professional growth I experienced in these sessions, I was also inspired in a whole other way. As I last wrote, one aspect of the conference was for the attendees to participate in writing time and to each begin constructing a work of our choice. I began a piece that touches me deeply, that connects me to my childhood and more importantly to my heart. I can't wait to see where it takes me.
Another profound thing that I witnessed was the dual nature of the writing experience in relationships with other conference attendees. On one hand, we each were working on our own unique pieces of choice. Some were bent over their notebooks frantically scrawling words on the page before they forgot the perfect phrases, yet still others paused to wipe the solitary tears that had slid down their cheeks as their writing had released emotions and memories that still sting. While allowing us each the chance to reflect and work individually, it also brought us closer together through our sharing and growing (albeit little in such a short time) as writers.
In wrapping up the conference, our presenter Katie Wood Ray asked us to each choose no more than twenty words of our writing to share with the entire group. While standing in an enormous circle, we passed the microphone from hand to hand and bravely presented our ideas to the other educators. It was beautiful to hear the intricate crafting that some had labored over, the witty remarks, and the soulful thoughts. It was humbling to hear the skill of many gifted writers, yet taught me lessons in the value of each unique style.
After these three days, I can only sum up such a great experience by telling you that I am simply inspired.
6.21.2011
Don't worry. Keep writing.
Today I had the pleasure of attending part one of three of a writing conference organized by the Indiana Partnership for Young Writers. When our writing coach asked me earlier in the year if I would be interested in attending to hear an influential and respected speaker, Katie Wood Ray, I jumped at the opportunity. Since I myself enjoy the art of writing so very much, I'm eager to sharpen my skills as a teacher of writing.
One of my favorite activities during today's session was time given by our presenter for all attendees to write in their notebooks. This is something that we ask students to do on a regular basis so of course it makes sense that we too must practice what we ourselves request of our students. As Katie Wood Ray put it while making reference to a rock climbing wall in the gym, we wouldn't try to teach a child how to climb it without trying it ourselves. We must practice what we preach as teachers.
I'll tell you that I was pretty excited about some free writing time. Armed with my new writer's notebook given at registration and a budding idea in my head (and two more writing times in the next conference days...hooray!), I was ready to begin brainstorming and drafting as my idea grew. As she finished giving her instructions, however, a sense of minor panic came over me. You see, our presenter told us that she or one of the other professionals would be meeting with us at some point to confer about our writing as we do with our own students in writer's workshop. It was one thing to write it in my notebook, but it was a whole other realm to think of sharing my diamond in the rough with someone who might criticize, judge, or dislike the piece.
I began realizing, though, how silly it is that so many of us are self-conscious about one form of communication over another. I answer the phone and talk to my friends without a second thought on a daily basis. I send emails to my family, friends, and colleagues. I jot a quick note in a card to someone dear, and I write on my friends facebook walls. Why should I really care whether someone highly values the work in this writer's notebook. After all, I've read books before that I have put down after the first chapter because I wasn't able to get hooked. It didn't necessarily label the author as a bad writer. I suppose it could, but it's probably more likely that it wasn't my style. For me, writing is a way to express myself and share my my ideas. It's a manner through which I can let my thoughts escape and perhaps be an inspiration, entertainment, or food for thought for a reader even if only for a short few moments. Blogging is one mode of writing which I have become very comfortable with, but my heads spins with the numerous genres, topics, and opportunities for writers. What do you like to write about? Why do you write? Where/what do you look to for inspiration? Comment and let me know if you'd like to share with a fellow (yes amateur) writer. Don't worry. Keep writing.
One of my favorite activities during today's session was time given by our presenter for all attendees to write in their notebooks. This is something that we ask students to do on a regular basis so of course it makes sense that we too must practice what we ourselves request of our students. As Katie Wood Ray put it while making reference to a rock climbing wall in the gym, we wouldn't try to teach a child how to climb it without trying it ourselves. We must practice what we preach as teachers.
I'll tell you that I was pretty excited about some free writing time. Armed with my new writer's notebook given at registration and a budding idea in my head (and two more writing times in the next conference days...hooray!), I was ready to begin brainstorming and drafting as my idea grew. As she finished giving her instructions, however, a sense of minor panic came over me. You see, our presenter told us that she or one of the other professionals would be meeting with us at some point to confer about our writing as we do with our own students in writer's workshop. It was one thing to write it in my notebook, but it was a whole other realm to think of sharing my diamond in the rough with someone who might criticize, judge, or dislike the piece.
I began realizing, though, how silly it is that so many of us are self-conscious about one form of communication over another. I answer the phone and talk to my friends without a second thought on a daily basis. I send emails to my family, friends, and colleagues. I jot a quick note in a card to someone dear, and I write on my friends facebook walls. Why should I really care whether someone highly values the work in this writer's notebook. After all, I've read books before that I have put down after the first chapter because I wasn't able to get hooked. It didn't necessarily label the author as a bad writer. I suppose it could, but it's probably more likely that it wasn't my style. For me, writing is a way to express myself and share my my ideas. It's a manner through which I can let my thoughts escape and perhaps be an inspiration, entertainment, or food for thought for a reader even if only for a short few moments. Blogging is one mode of writing which I have become very comfortable with, but my heads spins with the numerous genres, topics, and opportunities for writers. What do you like to write about? Why do you write? Where/what do you look to for inspiration? Comment and let me know if you'd like to share with a fellow (yes amateur) writer. Don't worry. Keep writing.
6.09.2011
Sending Love Around the World
Sometimes I get stuck in my own little bubble in my own little world. Aren't we all like that at times? We worry about our own agenda, our schedule, work, school, friends, family, etc. It's all about us. Yet if we stop for just a moment, we might remember that as important as we each are, we are simply a small piece in the greater scheme of the world. I recognize that I often need to widen my scope to the needs and happenings of my surrounding community. I am aware that there are many who need prayers and support in our nation. Furthermore, I see that there are countries around the world whose citizens do not enjoy the freedoms, financial security, and blessings that I have in my life.
One way that I have been able to reach out in love and touch another outside of the scope of my own life is through a unique and amazing organization called Compassion International. I want to introduce to a very special little girl in my life. Paola is a beautiful 10 year old 4th grader that I sponsor in Ecuador. After visiting Compassion's website several months ago, I browsed through a long list of needy children waiting for sponsorship. Because of my interest and studies in Spanish, I decided to choose a Spanish speaking country. In particular, Paola seemed like the perfect fit because she and I also share the same birthday. Each month I contribute through Compassion International to help support Paola's education, health, well-being, and opportunities to learn about God. Not only is it very fulfilling to know that I am reaching out to one of God's sweet children, but the organization also allows me to correspond with Paola. Today I was so excited to open a response handwritten by Paola and translated for me into English. She told me, "I want to become a teacher or a singer. I prefer to become a teacher like you." I honestly don't know tons of information about this little girl and her family, but I know it is worth every penny to help provide her opportunities and most importantly to allow her to be surrounded by nurturing Christian individuals. How wonderful if someday she might get to teach young children like I have the opportunity to do in my own life!
In addition to Compassion International's wide-reaching and well developed program, I am also reassured by the many sponsors who speak out in support of the organization. By visiting Compassion's website, you can watch a variety of promotional videos by various Christian music artists. One of my favorites, seen if you click here and choose the second video, details the singers of the group Point of Grace and their visits to meet their sponsored children.
Maybe you too will feel the call to reach out to a child in need. Perhaps you will take a moment to stop and pray for Paola and other children around the world like her. If nothing else, I that you might take a moment to step outside your personal concerns and worries and to think about others around you as well. Just as we have been commanded, "Love one another just as Christ loved you." John 15:12
One way that I have been able to reach out in love and touch another outside of the scope of my own life is through a unique and amazing organization called Compassion International. I want to introduce to a very special little girl in my life. Paola is a beautiful 10 year old 4th grader that I sponsor in Ecuador. After visiting Compassion's website several months ago, I browsed through a long list of needy children waiting for sponsorship. Because of my interest and studies in Spanish, I decided to choose a Spanish speaking country. In particular, Paola seemed like the perfect fit because she and I also share the same birthday. Each month I contribute through Compassion International to help support Paola's education, health, well-being, and opportunities to learn about God. Not only is it very fulfilling to know that I am reaching out to one of God's sweet children, but the organization also allows me to correspond with Paola. Today I was so excited to open a response handwritten by Paola and translated for me into English. She told me, "I want to become a teacher or a singer. I prefer to become a teacher like you." I honestly don't know tons of information about this little girl and her family, but I know it is worth every penny to help provide her opportunities and most importantly to allow her to be surrounded by nurturing Christian individuals. How wonderful if someday she might get to teach young children like I have the opportunity to do in my own life!
In addition to Compassion International's wide-reaching and well developed program, I am also reassured by the many sponsors who speak out in support of the organization. By visiting Compassion's website, you can watch a variety of promotional videos by various Christian music artists. One of my favorites, seen if you click here and choose the second video, details the singers of the group Point of Grace and their visits to meet their sponsored children.
Maybe you too will feel the call to reach out to a child in need. Perhaps you will take a moment to stop and pray for Paola and other children around the world like her. If nothing else, I that you might take a moment to step outside your personal concerns and worries and to think about others around you as well. Just as we have been commanded, "Love one another just as Christ loved you." John 15:12
5.17.2011
Every Moment, Breathe It In
I just hate it when I get very busy or a tad too stressed or maybe even just desensitized to the miraculousness of life. It makes me sad when I realize that I didn't take time to soak in the beauty of a piece of nature or slow down long enough to have a conversation with a friend or acquaintance. It's disappointing to notice that I sang a song at church and didn't accept an opportunity to let the world fade out and let words of praise lift me to a secret place of worship.
Whatever promises or resolutions we may make, no matter the phrases and the wise proverbs we might pass from generation to generation, it's simply human nature. An excuse, though, is still an excuse. Summer break is simply days away, and I can't wait to take the opportunity to live each day to the fullest. I absolutely love that God has blessed me with a career as a teacher. It's an absolutely rewarding experience to work with my students each day. Nonetheless, some down time and rest is good for the soul and will rejuvenate my excitement to begin another year in August.....so bring on the summer. I'm giddily anticipating time spent with two of my best college friends from out of town. It's one of those friendships that picks up exactly where you last left off....I absolutely love it. I will get a taste of the dearly loved familiarity of church camp this summer with a slight twist. I unfortunately won't get to be a cabin leader the elementary week that I am typically there; however, I will instead get to show lots of God's love to fifth and sixth graders at ICBC for a week! I also will get to throw in a short weekend session at First Timers' camp with the adorable little kiddos. I'm equally excited to attend a writing conference and various technology/teaching workshops here and there. Who can forget about the summer flower fields? Instead of working in the city at a part time job, I promised my dad that I would come home a few days here and there to help out and work for him in the flowers. Nothing like some good old-fashioned hard work to make you feel like you've had a noteworthy day. Wrapped all around these wonderful experiences and moments that I am ready to embrace with intention, purpose, and attention, I can't wait to sit and watch the sunset with my boyfriend at his new patio furniture. I am so looking forward to hearing the sounds of crickets chirping out in the country when I visit home. I'm eagerly awaiting the taste of ice cream and the exciting explosion of 4th of July fireworks in the sky above me. I'm ready to slow down for a bit and embrace the tiniest details of the beautiful life that I have been given.
Whatever promises or resolutions we may make, no matter the phrases and the wise proverbs we might pass from generation to generation, it's simply human nature. An excuse, though, is still an excuse. Summer break is simply days away, and I can't wait to take the opportunity to live each day to the fullest. I absolutely love that God has blessed me with a career as a teacher. It's an absolutely rewarding experience to work with my students each day. Nonetheless, some down time and rest is good for the soul and will rejuvenate my excitement to begin another year in August.....so bring on the summer. I'm giddily anticipating time spent with two of my best college friends from out of town. It's one of those friendships that picks up exactly where you last left off....I absolutely love it. I will get a taste of the dearly loved familiarity of church camp this summer with a slight twist. I unfortunately won't get to be a cabin leader the elementary week that I am typically there; however, I will instead get to show lots of God's love to fifth and sixth graders at ICBC for a week! I also will get to throw in a short weekend session at First Timers' camp with the adorable little kiddos. I'm equally excited to attend a writing conference and various technology/teaching workshops here and there. Who can forget about the summer flower fields? Instead of working in the city at a part time job, I promised my dad that I would come home a few days here and there to help out and work for him in the flowers. Nothing like some good old-fashioned hard work to make you feel like you've had a noteworthy day. Wrapped all around these wonderful experiences and moments that I am ready to embrace with intention, purpose, and attention, I can't wait to sit and watch the sunset with my boyfriend at his new patio furniture. I am so looking forward to hearing the sounds of crickets chirping out in the country when I visit home. I'm eagerly awaiting the taste of ice cream and the exciting explosion of 4th of July fireworks in the sky above me. I'm ready to slow down for a bit and embrace the tiniest details of the beautiful life that I have been given.
5.01.2011
Reflecting Inward First
As is the monthly tradition at my church, communion was taken today toward the end of our service. I find communion to be a very beautiful and mysterious activity, one which I feel is shared amongst myself and fellow believers surrounding me yet is also a very private and real moment of reflection and thanksgiving between me and God. Our time of communion today followed the pastor's message on the beginning of the book of Jonah. I was very touched by his teaching today because he really helped me make some personal connections to a story that had always seemed a little bit distant to me. (God calls Jonah to take a message to the evil city of Ninevah. Jonah doesn't want to go, runs from God, is thrown overboard, and is swallowed by a giant fish. Jonah realizes the mistake he has made in running from God's calling in his life and is given another chance.) As the pastor spoke, he helped me realize that virtually everyone has run from God in some form or fashion at one point or another in their lives. This combination between the message and a time of reflection in communion really made me think. It is so easy for us as humans to locate the flaws in another's character. "I can't believe he told a lie right to my face!" or "She really has no control over her words. I can't believe she said that." Yet just as I recently reminded my students, when you are pointing at someone else, you have four fingers pointing back at you. Today reminded me that it should be my priority to recognize areas in my life that I can improve on instead of sweeping them under the rug or worrying about anyone else. We can't ignore them and keep running away from this recognition. I also don't think we should be ashamed that we each have areas of weakness or ugly places in our lives that need fixing. The older I get and the more of life I live, the more I realize that people who act like they have it all together 100% of the time are just really good actors. We are all human and I am deciding that I am going to be real. I'm going to reflect inward first and not pretend that it's all perfect. I'm going to find those places that needs His refining and let the beautiful work begin...
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