New Year

I wanted to give myself a week or two to consider the new year. In the meantime, I have accepted a part time position teaching college English again this semester and was surprised to find out I would be teaching two different levels. The first level, I have taught many times and feel pretty confident with the material. However, the second material is new so I have had to read the text, make some notes, and say special prayers that I won't do a disservice to the students who are looking to better themselves.

I have also started a new semester at my "real" job...teaching 7th grade English. I was also surprised here, by finding out that my students have not had grammar, spelling, or punctuation lessons since their fourth grades. Whew! What started out as a review has now become a 9 week (and maybe a semester) long thing. They are also being asked to read a novel on their own for the first time. Only being a week into the new semester, I have found I am pleased with their progress. They don't like either of the assignments, but I think they will rise to the challenge.

As for family...we are all doing really great. Jeff still loves his job, Comanche brought home really great grades from last semester, and we are all on a health kick. I started weight watchers and the three of us are regular attendees at the gym. Jeff and I are participating in the local "Get Fit Challenge" and are on different teams. I am on a team with other teachers, and he is on a team with people from his work. Either way - I believe we are both in a win win situation.

Friends and extended families seem to be doing well. So - all in all...this year is off to a good start. With the grace of God and His love and mercy, we will make it through another year.