I can't believe it's close to the end of the year. It feels like just yesterday I was getting ready to start a brand new school year. It's amazing how time just keeps moving us forward. I have to say that Christmas time is a lovely time, but not right now. The weather has been so erratic. It was up to 67 degrees yesterday!!! What's up? I dunno, but I think the temperatures are going to be falling and falling yet again. Which is the way it should be, no?
Any who, J and I finally got up the tree, and it looks good. It's a little bit on the small side, but slightly larger than last year. I love the decorations we have. I have a lot of sentimental ones from when I was a kid, and even some of the ornaments that were from my parents' first trees when they were first married. They weren't expensive by any means.... (99 cents and Dart Drug for12 round, glittery balls in green and red). But they hold memories of hanging on so many of our family trees. And that's the best part.
I'm also on a baking spree. I've made 3 batches so far. Chocolate chip (of course), lemon cookies, and peanut butter balls. I am still setting out to do at least 3 mores (Russian tea cakes, chocolate, and Linzer cookies). I love to bake, and this amount of baking only happens once a year. Plus, they make good gifts. And since I have neighbors this year, I feel like I should extend a batch of cookies there way.
So, there's about 2 1/2 more days of school, I have kids finishing up some self portraits (too big, they're never going to finish them) and the girls are working on prints (which are coming out nicely, but it's hectic trying to clean it all up). The kids are pretty low-key these days. A lot of students are actually finishing up their sentences, and are able to go home before the holidays. But each day we get a couple of new ones in...
I'll be glad to have a break. We've never gotten 2 full weeks off before, and it's much needed for all of us. It's been so erratic these past few months, and even though we're all handling it well, and doing our jobs, we need this break. I kind of wish we could have a year 'round schedule so we could more breaks like this.....never going to happen.
NO huge plans this Christmas time. Just spending it with the family and some friends. I hope to catch up on some reading, and painting (for myself) and watching some movies, and of course trying to catch up on some sleep (easier said than done).
So this isn't much of a post. But I did get a new camera, and I'll be taking pictures throughout the holiday season.....
Ok. Merry Everything.....
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
The Fall
Have you heard of this movie? It came out a year or two ago. I'm not sure what the reviews were like, but I thought it was an amazing film. Not only was it filmed all over the world, the cast of characters are fantastic.
It's a surreal movie about this guy who tells a story to this little girl while they're both in the hospital. He uses the story to get her to do things for him and her imagination runs wild with the story. It's a fantasy really, and it's as beautiful as it is sad, happy, funny, dramatic, and strange. Everything I could ever want in a movie!
I highly suggest that you check it out, even if it's just for beautiful imagery of the countries they shoot in - China, India, Romania, Italy, England, Argentina, Cambodia, Fiji...just to name a few.
It also didn't hurt to have Lee Pace as the bed-ridden patient... I LOVE HIM!
It's a surreal movie about this guy who tells a story to this little girl while they're both in the hospital. He uses the story to get her to do things for him and her imagination runs wild with the story. It's a fantasy really, and it's as beautiful as it is sad, happy, funny, dramatic, and strange. Everything I could ever want in a movie!
I highly suggest that you check it out, even if it's just for beautiful imagery of the countries they shoot in - China, India, Romania, Italy, England, Argentina, Cambodia, Fiji...just to name a few.
It also didn't hurt to have Lee Pace as the bed-ridden patient... I LOVE HIM!
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Dog???
Oh to go to a shelter and look at all the cute little faces of all the dogs. That is what I did two times this week. J and I came to a decision that we can really get a dog, and we can really take care of it. And we've decided to try and adopt one from a local shelter. And-- this must be the place to do it, because there were some really sweet dogs. But especially this one little guy.
This one little guy is called Colton (would be changed if I had him-- but anyway). He's a black labradoodle. He's 3 months old, and the shaggiest cutest thing you'd ever want to see... I'll even post a pictures in hopes that he becomes mine.
He is totally trainable, sweet, warm, and loves to be around people. I think he'd be the perfect mix for us. We have a yard, and room for him to grow into. He will get huge.. No doubt. His cute paws are huge. I mean HUGE! He's not even close to being full grown. But if we got him now, he'd be totally easy to care of.
So, are you sitting, are you waiting, are you wondering why I don't have this cute pup in my grasp yet? Well, hold on to your mittens my friends. There's a short wait list. In fact, there's just one person ahead of me on this list. Wait for it...............
It's Barack Obama. Yes. The Obamas might get "MY" dog. I'm thinking, I Obama my vote, and carefully carved his likeness on a pumpkin. Isn't that enough? Apparently, animal shelters in the area are in the know about the Obama's family needs for a certain type of pet. He did say a mutt, didn't he? Well, they're looking for a labradoodle, and they would want to adopt rather than buy a dog. Totally respect that.... So Animal Shelters in Alexandria, Arlington...etc.. are putting in bids for Obama to take the dog from them. So, the likelihood of me actually getting this dog as a part of my family is kind of slim. I can only hope and pray to the gods above that this shelter may actually choose me. I'd love to find out now. But I guess I may not know until January. In the meantime, the pup is stuck in the shelter.
I'm willing and waiting... I think he should be with us. So cross your fingers, I hope I really get this cute, loveable, adorable chewing machine.... It would be the best Christmas ever.
This one little guy is called Colton (would be changed if I had him-- but anyway). He's a black labradoodle. He's 3 months old, and the shaggiest cutest thing you'd ever want to see... I'll even post a pictures in hopes that he becomes mine.
He is totally trainable, sweet, warm, and loves to be around people. I think he'd be the perfect mix for us. We have a yard, and room for him to grow into. He will get huge.. No doubt. His cute paws are huge. I mean HUGE! He's not even close to being full grown. But if we got him now, he'd be totally easy to care of.
So, are you sitting, are you waiting, are you wondering why I don't have this cute pup in my grasp yet? Well, hold on to your mittens my friends. There's a short wait list. In fact, there's just one person ahead of me on this list. Wait for it...............
It's Barack Obama. Yes. The Obamas might get "MY" dog. I'm thinking, I Obama my vote, and carefully carved his likeness on a pumpkin. Isn't that enough? Apparently, animal shelters in the area are in the know about the Obama's family needs for a certain type of pet. He did say a mutt, didn't he? Well, they're looking for a labradoodle, and they would want to adopt rather than buy a dog. Totally respect that.... So Animal Shelters in Alexandria, Arlington...etc.. are putting in bids for Obama to take the dog from them. So, the likelihood of me actually getting this dog as a part of my family is kind of slim. I can only hope and pray to the gods above that this shelter may actually choose me. I'd love to find out now. But I guess I may not know until January. In the meantime, the pup is stuck in the shelter.
I'm willing and waiting... I think he should be with us. So cross your fingers, I hope I really get this cute, loveable, adorable chewing machine.... It would be the best Christmas ever.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Brrrrrrrrr
I was on my home from work and it flurried. What?? I'm not ready for this, please let me crawl back into my nice warm bed, with the covers secured tightly over my head.
Spa day is Friday! SO excited and maybe a little nervous at the same time. I've never had one before..... it was my birthday present from J this year and I finally get to use it! My best friend is coming with me too. Should be a great day, I'm hoping.
Ok, so hopefully work today will be semi-normal... we'll see.
Spa day is Friday! SO excited and maybe a little nervous at the same time. I've never had one before..... it was my birthday present from J this year and I finally get to use it! My best friend is coming with me too. Should be a great day, I'm hoping.
Ok, so hopefully work today will be semi-normal... we'll see.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Not a normal day..week....ever
Everyone knows by now where I teach, and what I do. The conflict I deal with everyday is consistency. Not just with my own teaching practices, but the building, the environment, the kids, the transient nature of it all.
Well, today is no exception. We've not had a normal week since September. Almost every week there has been some kind of shortened day, or an assembly, or a training... At least once a week. Or, I've been out. Today we were actually just discussing how this week looks like it may be the first 5-day uninterrupted schedule since we can remember. No dice.
As you may have guessed, security comes first. And today, there just happened to be a breach. I'm not going to go into it on the blog, someone lost some keys.. Not teaching staff. They're important keys. If someone got a hold of them, they could walk right out of this facility. The search has begun.
So all the kids are locked down, we're stuck in our classrooms... which is fine. I got tons to do. The worst part about it, is that we don't know how long this will last. It's pretty important that they find these, or else, well, I don't know what else. They'll have to completely change all the locks and keypads.
I think it's pretty safe to say that I'm not going to be doing any teaching the rest of the day. Which really stinks. Today I was on a roll with the two classes I saw, and was really upbeat that my students would be making some strides in their perspective drawings. But I guess that's kind of on hold for now.
So much for a "normal" work week. And next week is Thanksgiving -- we only have 2 days of school next week.
I just wish things were a little different.
Well, today is no exception. We've not had a normal week since September. Almost every week there has been some kind of shortened day, or an assembly, or a training... At least once a week. Or, I've been out. Today we were actually just discussing how this week looks like it may be the first 5-day uninterrupted schedule since we can remember. No dice.
As you may have guessed, security comes first. And today, there just happened to be a breach. I'm not going to go into it on the blog, someone lost some keys.. Not teaching staff. They're important keys. If someone got a hold of them, they could walk right out of this facility. The search has begun.
So all the kids are locked down, we're stuck in our classrooms... which is fine. I got tons to do. The worst part about it, is that we don't know how long this will last. It's pretty important that they find these, or else, well, I don't know what else. They'll have to completely change all the locks and keypads.
I think it's pretty safe to say that I'm not going to be doing any teaching the rest of the day. Which really stinks. Today I was on a roll with the two classes I saw, and was really upbeat that my students would be making some strides in their perspective drawings. But I guess that's kind of on hold for now.
So much for a "normal" work week. And next week is Thanksgiving -- we only have 2 days of school next week.
I just wish things were a little different.
Monday, November 17, 2008
You Betcha!
http://yeswecarve.com/
I'm somewhere on it. Right now, it's the first page... could be second or third by tomorrow!!!
yes we did!
I'm somewhere on it. Right now, it's the first page... could be second or third by tomorrow!!!
yes we did!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Colorado Round 2
The Contemporary part of DAM - it's really an amazing piece of architecture.
They made this whole open plaza, complete with condos and lofts right across the way.
This takes up a significant amount of space. I didn't realize just how large the structure was.
Colorado Round 1
They have a preserved Tibetan Mandala on display. I wasn't quite sure how I felt about the first time I saw it years ago, but I feel like it's ok. It's supposed to represent impermanence. 
Lots going on in the museum, installation of grey foxes, and this interesting, yet frightening view of skulls.
They have areas where you can walk outside, they're going to eventually be sculpture gardens.
Metal man!
The inside can really play with your perceptions of space.Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Elevation is elevating
We're back from the west. Colorado was as I remembered it, except, Denver has this really awesome contemporary addition to their art museum. Last time I visited, they had plans drawn up, and I think there was even a little construction going on, and now it's this massive silver building that takes over the entire area. It's pretty great though. They have a lot of temporary exhibits, and a few permanent ones.
I was able to take pictures of some of the permanent exhibits, and I'll post them later.
We also ate some nice meals. Particularly, at this great Italian place down off of 16th street. The meal was very good. I had a pasta stuffed with squash in a butter sage sauce...yum. But I have to say the salad I had ordered for a starter was the best salad I ever had. I'm not sure if I could re-create it or not. A baby salad of pears, walnuts, goat cheese, drizzled with a balsamic and honey glaze. Oh, my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
The only problem with this high-end restaurant was their wine prices. They called themselves a wine bar too, which I guess gave them license to jack up their wine prices. It just seemed way out of price for all the glasses they were serving. Oh well, the meal made it all worth it.
The next couple of days we spent with my friend from high school... Karin. We drove down to see her and had a nice but way to short visit. There were beautiful vistas, and a visit to the majestic Broadmoor Hotel. I will try to explain to you just how beautiful it is.
The hotel was built in 1917. It's beautifully decorated, the grounds are amazing. The people are so friendly you wonder how someone can constantly smile like that all day long without going insane. Which makes me wonder.... if you work at this complex for too long, might you go insane (a la Jack Nicholson in "The Shining") ?
There's something about the Broadmoor that exudes elegance, charm, and the feeling that you might actually be a part of some aristocratic family.
So we sat in the bar, where we relaxed in beautiful leather chairs, sipping our beverages, letting the altitude have it's way with our consciousness. Soaked in the scenery of the mountains behind us, and had some delicious snacks...and possibly the best nuts you've ever tasted.
We watched the bear-like squirrels search for food, birds fly in and out, and swans (white and black) find their way around the little lake. Probably one of the most serene places I've ever been where there are so many people moving about. J and I walked around the lake took some pictures and went back in as soon as the chill got to us for a delicious hot chocolate.
We also went to the Garden of the Gods. A really interesting area that jets out into the foothills near the city of Colorado Springs. The red and yellow tones of the rock, the sharp shapes that drastically change from each angle. Just beautiful the way the light played of the rocks.... -sigh-
The elevation didn't play too much into our daily routine, I think we both suffered from a slight headache on the first day, but we tried to keep up our liquids (all kinds of liquids). I kind of long for the day that I can actually get into some real elevation. For some reason these high desert cities are places that I connect with. I really miss being out there, but I know that I couldn't live in those areas. I'm definitely an east coast girl and really love where I am at the moment, but I always long for it, I always want to be there, and when I am there -- it's almost like coming home.
I was able to take pictures of some of the permanent exhibits, and I'll post them later.
We also ate some nice meals. Particularly, at this great Italian place down off of 16th street. The meal was very good. I had a pasta stuffed with squash in a butter sage sauce...yum. But I have to say the salad I had ordered for a starter was the best salad I ever had. I'm not sure if I could re-create it or not. A baby salad of pears, walnuts, goat cheese, drizzled with a balsamic and honey glaze. Oh, my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
The only problem with this high-end restaurant was their wine prices. They called themselves a wine bar too, which I guess gave them license to jack up their wine prices. It just seemed way out of price for all the glasses they were serving. Oh well, the meal made it all worth it.
The next couple of days we spent with my friend from high school... Karin. We drove down to see her and had a nice but way to short visit. There were beautiful vistas, and a visit to the majestic Broadmoor Hotel. I will try to explain to you just how beautiful it is.
The hotel was built in 1917. It's beautifully decorated, the grounds are amazing. The people are so friendly you wonder how someone can constantly smile like that all day long without going insane. Which makes me wonder.... if you work at this complex for too long, might you go insane (a la Jack Nicholson in "The Shining") ?
There's something about the Broadmoor that exudes elegance, charm, and the feeling that you might actually be a part of some aristocratic family.
So we sat in the bar, where we relaxed in beautiful leather chairs, sipping our beverages, letting the altitude have it's way with our consciousness. Soaked in the scenery of the mountains behind us, and had some delicious snacks...and possibly the best nuts you've ever tasted.
We watched the bear-like squirrels search for food, birds fly in and out, and swans (white and black) find their way around the little lake. Probably one of the most serene places I've ever been where there are so many people moving about. J and I walked around the lake took some pictures and went back in as soon as the chill got to us for a delicious hot chocolate.
We also went to the Garden of the Gods. A really interesting area that jets out into the foothills near the city of Colorado Springs. The red and yellow tones of the rock, the sharp shapes that drastically change from each angle. Just beautiful the way the light played of the rocks.... -sigh-
The elevation didn't play too much into our daily routine, I think we both suffered from a slight headache on the first day, but we tried to keep up our liquids (all kinds of liquids). I kind of long for the day that I can actually get into some real elevation. For some reason these high desert cities are places that I connect with. I really miss being out there, but I know that I couldn't live in those areas. I'm definitely an east coast girl and really love where I am at the moment, but I always long for it, I always want to be there, and when I am there -- it's almost like coming home.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
I voted!
And Virginia must have it's act together, because it took be about 60 seconds. I didn't have to stand in any line, and I voted on a paper ballot. Easy as PIE! Unlike Floridians, who can't seem to get their act together.
I'm so excited for the change. I am actually tempted to get my hair chopped off this week, but I think I should really wait for the Inauguration Day. That is the official change of power. THANK GOD. And if all goes according to plan, it will be Obama.
Not that it matters if I vote for the president, because I don't hold the key. The stupid electoral college does.
Anyway, must go finish my grading, and lesson planning. In this district we have no school today, only a teacher work day. Which is great for us. But what about the rest of the country? Why don't we vote on the weekends? Or make it a national holiday? It's ridiculous.
Tonight I'm definitely watching the results. I hope we know by 9 pm!
I'm so excited for the change. I am actually tempted to get my hair chopped off this week, but I think I should really wait for the Inauguration Day. That is the official change of power. THANK GOD. And if all goes according to plan, it will be Obama.
Not that it matters if I vote for the president, because I don't hold the key. The stupid electoral college does.
Anyway, must go finish my grading, and lesson planning. In this district we have no school today, only a teacher work day. Which is great for us. But what about the rest of the country? Why don't we vote on the weekends? Or make it a national holiday? It's ridiculous.
Tonight I'm definitely watching the results. I hope we know by 9 pm!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Almost there
It's the end of my Thursday. Just need to prep for tomorrow and I can go home.
It's been one of those weeks where nothing goes according to plan. My one saving grace is my Unit 2. As about as consistent as a class can get. They come on time, work hard, I get to interact with them individually, we talk about their work. It's great. I couldn't ask for a better end to any teaching day. Unit 2 is like a group of 16 year olds. Most of them have been here for a while, and it's not as transient as most other units. Maybe that's why? They're used to each other, they treat each other more like brothers. It's a comforting feeling I think. They're much more at ease.
Even with their artwork they're taking more risks than any other class. I never hear "I can't". So I have to say, the end of my days are a breeze. I'm glad I get to end with them and it makes me appreciate where I teach. Because, with them, at least I know they're doing more than just finishing an assignment, they're putting their own stamp on it, and creating work that is meaningful to them.....
I really need to post some pictures soon.... As soon as I find my card reader.
Anyway, tonight is pumpkin carving at home. And yes, I have seen yeswecarve.com. I LOVE IT! At least one or 2 of my pumpkins will be dedicated to the election. Most of them are really easy to do. I think the hardest part of pumpkin carving is the digging out of all the "guts".
Next week will be interesting! I'm going to really wish I had Wednesday off, because we'll be following the coverage at a bar... Iota, I think? Jolie Holland is playing (I love her) and of course there will be election coverage....and many beverages...
But, I shouldn't complain. All I have to do is make it through, and then it's of to Colorado for an extra long weekend!! I'm so excited. I can't wait to be out there, I hope we have a little bit of time to go on a hike, and make it to the Boradmor. We'll also be in Denver, I'll make a repeat visit to the Denver Art Musem (it's AMESOME) And this time I'm getting the DAM t-shirt (yes, pun intended).
Ok, so maybe this week wasn't so bad. Certainly there is always light at the end of tunnel.
Barack the vote everybody!!!
It's been one of those weeks where nothing goes according to plan. My one saving grace is my Unit 2. As about as consistent as a class can get. They come on time, work hard, I get to interact with them individually, we talk about their work. It's great. I couldn't ask for a better end to any teaching day. Unit 2 is like a group of 16 year olds. Most of them have been here for a while, and it's not as transient as most other units. Maybe that's why? They're used to each other, they treat each other more like brothers. It's a comforting feeling I think. They're much more at ease.
Even with their artwork they're taking more risks than any other class. I never hear "I can't". So I have to say, the end of my days are a breeze. I'm glad I get to end with them and it makes me appreciate where I teach. Because, with them, at least I know they're doing more than just finishing an assignment, they're putting their own stamp on it, and creating work that is meaningful to them.....
I really need to post some pictures soon.... As soon as I find my card reader.
Anyway, tonight is pumpkin carving at home. And yes, I have seen yeswecarve.com. I LOVE IT! At least one or 2 of my pumpkins will be dedicated to the election. Most of them are really easy to do. I think the hardest part of pumpkin carving is the digging out of all the "guts".
Next week will be interesting! I'm going to really wish I had Wednesday off, because we'll be following the coverage at a bar... Iota, I think? Jolie Holland is playing (I love her) and of course there will be election coverage....and many beverages...
But, I shouldn't complain. All I have to do is make it through, and then it's of to Colorado for an extra long weekend!! I'm so excited. I can't wait to be out there, I hope we have a little bit of time to go on a hike, and make it to the Boradmor. We'll also be in Denver, I'll make a repeat visit to the Denver Art Musem (it's AMESOME) And this time I'm getting the DAM t-shirt (yes, pun intended).
Ok, so maybe this week wasn't so bad. Certainly there is always light at the end of tunnel.
Barack the vote everybody!!!
Monday, October 27, 2008
ain't nothin' but a GS baby...
Yes, they've coined a new word for me at work... I am a "GS" - gangtsa-socialist. I have no problem with that either. It's true, I'm respected by many on and off the streets while I seek social justice for ALL.
Damn right, you heard?
It's ridiculous that sometimes at work it feels like it's going ever-so-smoothly, and then BAM- it just disintegrates
Bottom line is that my students' work is getting censored. I'm not even being asked about it, or anything. People are just coming and taking down random pieces of work. WHAT? I don't get it? At least come to me and say," hey I noticed that this piece is gang-related, here's why...".
Not only that, but they're taking books from kids that are non-fiction pieces, written by former gang members or criminals that are sharing their stories so kids like mine can make better choices, or get the courage to get out. IT'S UTTERLY RIDICULOUS.
So, what's a d-home teacher to do? Well, the one thing I will NOT do is stop making my students think. I'm truly impressed by the work that my students churn out (if given the chance to finish). Most pieces are thoughtful, emotional, and just amazing. As I said before, some kids try to put gang symbolism in their work, but if I catch it, I usually give them a chance to change it, and you know what? They usually do without any problem.
Today that same thing happened. I saw a kid using blue- and only blue. I was handling the situation just fine when the detention specialist just flew off the handle about gang-this and gang-that. Normally, the kid would have just added something...that's the kind of kid he is. Is he connected? FOR SURE! But he's also a reasonable 17 year-old, which is extremely rare.
I know I keep going back to the same thing, but how are kids supposed to get past where they are? How are kids supposed to problem solve? I would rather have a calm, individual discussion with the kid first, than just tear right into the kid....ARGH~!
Gangs, totally serious issue, needs to be handled constructively. Not through even more aggression and hostility. They're used to that.
Damn right, you heard?
It's ridiculous that sometimes at work it feels like it's going ever-so-smoothly, and then BAM- it just disintegrates
Bottom line is that my students' work is getting censored. I'm not even being asked about it, or anything. People are just coming and taking down random pieces of work. WHAT? I don't get it? At least come to me and say," hey I noticed that this piece is gang-related, here's why...".
Not only that, but they're taking books from kids that are non-fiction pieces, written by former gang members or criminals that are sharing their stories so kids like mine can make better choices, or get the courage to get out. IT'S UTTERLY RIDICULOUS.
So, what's a d-home teacher to do? Well, the one thing I will NOT do is stop making my students think. I'm truly impressed by the work that my students churn out (if given the chance to finish). Most pieces are thoughtful, emotional, and just amazing. As I said before, some kids try to put gang symbolism in their work, but if I catch it, I usually give them a chance to change it, and you know what? They usually do without any problem.
Today that same thing happened. I saw a kid using blue- and only blue. I was handling the situation just fine when the detention specialist just flew off the handle about gang-this and gang-that. Normally, the kid would have just added something...that's the kind of kid he is. Is he connected? FOR SURE! But he's also a reasonable 17 year-old, which is extremely rare.
I know I keep going back to the same thing, but how are kids supposed to get past where they are? How are kids supposed to problem solve? I would rather have a calm, individual discussion with the kid first, than just tear right into the kid....ARGH~!
Gangs, totally serious issue, needs to be handled constructively. Not through even more aggression and hostility. They're used to that.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Ok, it really does exist..and interpretations
My students are doing a project with text. We've looked at a lot of art from all over-- especially at graphic design, and of course people like Jasper Johns, Jenny Holzer, and Islamic art. So they get the idea that they're turning their poetry, word, quote into a piece of art that carries across the theme of their words.
So this kid comes to me and says I want to do something about where I'm from. I'm like ok. He's from Florida-- so I figure his theme will be kind of sunny and fun...because he's like that, and he really misses home.
Yesterday he was working really hard on the lettering. He's doing all kinds of crazy graffiti, and it looks GOOD. But I look at it, and I say to him... "Plant City? You're from Plant City...ummm, I don't think so." He's like, " No Ms. I really am, it's an actual place, I'm not trying to be like that." I say,"Really, there's a Plant City? In Florida?" He goes, "Yea, Miss. And they have a strawberry festival and everything, I can't believe you haven't heard of it, it's true." So I say," Ok, I believe you, I just want to make sure you're not going to get into any trouble. Can you show me."
So here you go.... it may sound drug related...but it does exist:
I'm pretty sure he has a lot of friends in here because they all know he's from Plant City.... but anyway.
I can't wait to hang it up and get all the grief. People jump to all sorts of ideas. I'm thinking about just hanging up a map that shows that this is an actual place.
About a month ago they took down about 4 pieces of art that they said was "gang related" (isn't everything?) without telling me. And when I went upstairs and asked them to show me just what actually was gang related, they didn't show me... They were just trying to censor the kids, mainly because they were putting out some kind of truth that they actually know about.
Makes my face turn a tomato color because I realize that it really is all about censorship.
Today a different student and I were saying that everything seems to get that gang-related-label. He actually was one of the kids who got censored --and FYI he's not even in a gang-- so it really wasn't gang-related, but more of a coincidence that someone else thought his artwork was. WHATEVER. He and I agreed that it's blown way out of proportion, and it's truly a shame when people go out of their way to find a reason to make objects, pictures, and symbols (most that are cultural) "gang related".
ARGH.
I realize that where I work I do need to know and be aware of what kids are doing. But one of the benefits of where I work, is that I actually get to see them everyday. I know who they are, they know what they can do and shouldn't do. Yes, there are kids that do put typical gang stuff in their drawings, and I do warn them that I have to turn that in. And I'm on top of that. I realize that kids are savvy and some things get put straight past me, but most often than not a kid is really trying to make a genuine piece. Free of "gang" paraphernalia. (whatever that is)
Not to mention the ugliest mural that I keep meaning to take a picture of... This summer students of ACPS were asked to complete a mural with an artist (who definitely got paid a lot). It is the ugliest mural ever, and it's already starting to fade.... But the real kicker is that there are blatant gang symbols in there. How did that pass? Even I recognized it.... I'll have to see if I can manage to take a picture and post it. You will probably see what I mean. I won't even tell you what it is... I'll let you figure it out.
Day by day I become more and more savvy. I need to start remembering the things I learn from my students. Maybe I should write them down and turn them into a book. "J" says I should be doing that already.... I just find every excuse not to. LAZY... I know. That's all it is.
Ok, rambling stops.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Sooo Cool!
They just found an old manual typewriter in the ducts in the basement. It must have been there for years, and it must have been from the original owners! It's a Smith Corona Skywriter Typewriter. I can't wait to use it. It obviously needs new ribbon, but I found many places that have it. What a cool thing to find hiding in your house.
Sure, it's not a million dollars, or old wedding rings, or a Rolex, but it's a piece of history.
I'm planning on using it in future art works... I think I just found my newest obsession!
Sure, it's not a million dollars, or old wedding rings, or a Rolex, but it's a piece of history.
I'm planning on using it in future art works... I think I just found my newest obsession!
YES!
The tides really have turned this weekend, haven't they? And by that I mean.... Colin Powell. YES! I have more and more respect for him the more and more I learn about him, hear him speak, and see his actions. Finally, it took Colin Powell to say it.. in a very eloquent way, he basically said... No, Obama is not Muslim you idiots....and it shouldn't even matter.
Props, he may have even changed my dad's mind... (I really do...)
So I'm really happy about that. REALLY happy. If everyone goes and votes like they say they are, maybe Obama will win by a landslide.
Ahh, elections....this one certainly is exciting.
And BTW-- I picture Palin having some sort of conservative/crazy talk show on tv after the republicans lose... Maybe she could be on the outdoor channel, or have a food network show that revolves around how to make meals out of caribou or moose. I don't know, but I saw her momentary tv time on SNL this weekend, and I just keep thing about how she has no substance. None whatsoever. But it seems like she can read teleprompters very well. And that is key to talk shows.... Move over Sally Jesse Raphael.... time for some new glasses.
Props, he may have even changed my dad's mind... (I really do...)
So I'm really happy about that. REALLY happy. If everyone goes and votes like they say they are, maybe Obama will win by a landslide.
Ahh, elections....this one certainly is exciting.
And BTW-- I picture Palin having some sort of conservative/crazy talk show on tv after the republicans lose... Maybe she could be on the outdoor channel, or have a food network show that revolves around how to make meals out of caribou or moose. I don't know, but I saw her momentary tv time on SNL this weekend, and I just keep thing about how she has no substance. None whatsoever. But it seems like she can read teleprompters very well. And that is key to talk shows.... Move over Sally Jesse Raphael.... time for some new glasses.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
The Road
It's going to be a movie, so you better make yourself read it....if you haven't already.
I just learned of the filming locations, and it seems so very fitting for the bleakness of it all, check it out:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0898367/locations
Bleak, I'm surprised they didn't venture slightly north to Clarion. Although Breezewood is bad, alright.
I just learned of the filming locations, and it seems so very fitting for the bleakness of it all, check it out:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0898367/locations
Bleak, I'm surprised they didn't venture slightly north to Clarion. Although Breezewood is bad, alright.
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