"So, you're attending graduate school?" -My Response to Higher Education

sigh. 

If I could but have $1 for every time I've been asked, "What? You're going back to school?" that last few months, I'd have all my parking fees and books paid for completely.  no joke. :)

Seriously, what is your reaction when you hear of someone attending higher education? 

(I'm specifically thinking of public education, not Bible school.)

Can't think of what you'd say? Well, let me share a few I've heard the past few months...

"WHAT? If you were really a Christian and in-tune with God's Will, 

you would sacrifice for His work and not pursue a secular and worldly career at a public university. God doesn't bless those who reject His will."

"You should be content to serve God rather than chase after worldly careers and fame."

"Christian education is where the real contentment lies- and you're missing it."

"The public university is a dangerous place. There's...(whispered) gays everywhere, and you will

be affected! Your soul will suffer! You'd better beg God for mercy!"

etc. etc. etc. etc.  

I could go on for a while, but I'm assuming you're an intelligent individual

and thus able to read what I've written so far, and I won't bore you with more of the same.

(Note: I am not disrespecting any of the individuals who made the above comments.)

This is my third week of graduate classes, and just to report:

1) I am still a Christian

2) I feel that God is pleased with my life

3) God has worked out details for my schooling and continues to do so

and,

4) I am 'in His will' 

No way!

Here is my response to higher education from a Christian perspective, 

coming from someone who has already 

received a BA from a Bible College:

1) Christ asks, no commands us to be disciples. Right? And by definition, a disciple of Christ

is literally a 'little Christ.' In the words of C.S. Lewis, 

"Every Christian is to become a little Christ. The whole purpose of becoming a Christian is simply nothing else."

I love that. Really, I do. As Christians, we are truly representatives of Christ to the world, and everyone really.

2) Jesus was a student. Remember, when He was 12 and sat in the synagogue to learn about the Scriptures?

What about the verse, "Study to show thyself approved?" (2 Tim. 2:15) Jesus did not condemn education.

3) It appears that some Christians view any educational institution lacking the word 'Bible' or 'Christian' in the 

name as being 'of the devil,' or 'completely worldly.' How ignorant. 

Now, for my opinion:

1) I am literally sick and tired of Christian education (in general) having a 'bad rap' and reputation as being

second-rate, unprofessional, non-academic, archaic, etc. 

I'm sure you've heard of it described as such...I know I have. 

And, sadly, I'm sure you have heard of/seen institutions bearing the name of Christ 

that demonstrate these 'qualities.' It's truly saddening, and it's a disgrace to the name of Christ.

2) By completely rejecting the idea of 'professional education,' we as Christians

have cheated students. Just a little hint: holy shoddy is still shoddy. The foundation of 

"Christian Education" is, yes, Christ, but it's still 'education,' not Sunday School.

The educational system is intended to educate and instruct in areas of academia and character building, and

when coupled with a passion for Christ, is an absolutely beautiful thing! But leave out the 

passion for excellence in academics, and it's just glorified Sunday School. 

3) As a Christian, I believe that God has given each of us certain gifts, talents, and abilities that, 

when cultivated, can be used for His glory. I also believe that God expects me to represent Him

well, and to do my absolute best with what He has given me. 

That means I want to learn as much as I can to help teach others about music/piano, 

use it as a tool to bless others, and ultimately glorify God. Without concentrated practice, 

diligence, and instruction, this won't happen. So, to do my best with what God has given me,

I am attending a graduate music school, pursuing my MM in Piano Performance/Pedagogy,

and ultimately achieving a DMA in Piano Performance. 

All with God's approval, sanction, and my parents' blessing. :) 

So, there you have it- my philosophy of Christian Education in a nutshell. 

But, it all comes down to this: 

Don't ever give less than your very best back to God with the 

talents he has given you. Do your absolute, dead-level best

in your area, and leave the rest up to God. 

But always give your best.

Anything less is not only embarrassing,

it's also not pleasing to God.

And, since that's what life is all about- pleasing God- we should strive to please Him in education, too.
A few closing thoughts:

I am very thankful for the four years at Hobe Sound Bible College, where I learned

the 'foundations of faith,' philosophical views, and what I believe before coming to 

a secular university of 18,000 + students. Likewise, my dad and sister

did an online Biblical beliefs course together from GBS before she went to Bob Jones (a Baptist

university). That being said, it may not be wise for a Christian individual who is not solidly grounded in his/her faith to attend a secular university...take a Biblical beliefs class. Be ready to answer questions from people about your beliefs, and be a mature enough individual that you can be who you are, no matter where you are. 

I do not- and would not- live on campus at UNCG. I am a proud commuter, and 

most at the university know it by now. They've also picked up on the fact that I'm not a 

party-goer. Hmmm...wonder how that came across? :)

 Unitl next time...

Part 2: Dear Parents/Teachers: ABC's for Educators- Balanced

 Part 2- Continuation of “ABC’s for Educators:”

‘b’ = balanced

Throughout your journey of education, you have most likely encountered many different types of teachers. (some of which you’ve rather not remember…)

Strict.

Easy-going.

Fun-loving.

And, the ever dreaded, “Spinster-single-school-marm-all-work-no-fun” type. You know the type. This particular type of teacher believes he/she is not going his/her respective job correctly unless at LEAST one person fails the class. “If you hate me, I’m doing a good job.” Ouch. This teacher is voted most likely to have the highest number of upset parents/students.

Then, of course, there is the opposite extreme, which some despise just as much as the other. The “Hey ya’ll, I’m kinda lazy and hate to grade papers, but I’d love to hang out with you this year. Come to my class, smile, make me laugh, and I’ll give you an A+, honey!” Yeah, go ahead and admit it- you LOVED that one. J (Didn’t we all…) 

Oddly enough, parents/student are also likely to become frustrated with this type of teacher.

Teaching (and parenting): It’s more than personality. It’s more than just the old excuse of ‘that’s how I learned, and I think my students should have to deal with it, too.’ It’s more than ‘I want them to respect me.’ It’s more than ‘I hate teaching, but it’s all I know how to do.’ It’s more than ‘I want my students to like me.’ Much more.

The answer? Be balanced. Simple. (Well, sort of.) This goes for parents, too. (And anyone else, really.) You don’t want to be an ogre, and you shouldn’t be like Santa, but there really is a happy medium somewhere in between.

The real ‘bottom line’ here does have a lot to do with personality, teaching style, perspective, and a whole host of other things, but the main thing is: Truth vs. Grace.

The ‘Truth Oriented’ person sees rules and regulations, black and white, right and wrong, good and bad, and wants justice.

The ‘Grace Oriented’ person sees gray lines, loop holes, is sympathetic, compassionate, wants to please others, and is easily persuaded.

The world is full of both types. I tend to be a mixture of both. I want justice, but also tend to see ‘gray’ areas. I don’t want to be hated, but I don’t worry about pleasing others. I am easily distracted, so I have to keep a game plan. It’s just who I am.

I have to work at not coming across too sharply or sarcastically to students, and at being sympathetic. I know my weaknesses, and try to work on them. (I’ll be the first to admit I still have a long ways to go.)

Here are a few things I’ve learned.

1) Find out which one you tend to be: truth or grace oriented. Ask family/friends…but be prepared for brutal honesty. J Only ask if you intend to do something about it.

2) After that, make a special effort to try and improve the areas in which you KNOW you are lacking. It’s tough, but well worth it.

3) Be honest and upfront with your kids/students. Let them know that you are aware you might come across too ________ (fill in the blank), but you are working on it. They will truly respect you, even though they probably won’t communicate it. It will also give you a sense of accountability; now that you’ve told the kids, you’ll be more likely to stick with it.

4) A hint: the most respected teacher/parent is not the strictest. Nor is it the softy. It is the one who knows his/her weaknesses and cares enough for others to work on improving in those areas to become more balanced.

Kids love funny. Kids love spontaneous. Kids need balanced.

Do you truly care enough about your students/kids enough to look beyond your own pride and examine your strengths/weaknesses objectively, and then actually do something about them?

The answer to the puzzle of being a balanced individual is a life-long process, but is well worth the effort.

Until next time…

Dear parents/teachers...My series of 'ABC's for Educators:' Approachable.

I’ve often heard it said that teacher learns more the first year of teaching than the years spent in college combined. As I am concluding my first year of teaching, I can verify that statement!

When I began this year, I was (shall we say) ‘in the dark’ about a lot of areas concerning the teaching process. Including what exactly I would be teaching. That is, until the week before school. (Yes, as in ONE week.) So, I’m finishing up this year as, yes, the full-time K-12 Music Instructor. In addition to being a full-time Jr. High teacher in 7^th grade Math, NC History, and Jr. High Bible. *May I point out the obvious? I did not study to be a Jr. High teacher! However, allow me to make another obvious statement (I make quite a few of those): It is May, and I have survived the ride so far. J  (and enjoyed it.) 

*These comments/descriptions are not meant in any way as degrading to my place of employment, I am simply painting the scenario of my first year for you.

And, in addition to survival, I can again re-affirm my first statement: I feel as though I have learned more than my students. Over the next several blog posts, I will be sharing a few things I’ve learned. Preface: I am not claiming to be a seasoned authority on educational advice; I’m simply a teacher/grad. student who thrives on learning and sharing. J The things I share will not simply be applicable for teachers; I hope it will be informative for all of my readers. I have a few blog posts in the ‘draft’ stage that will be specifically for parents. Anyways, I hope you enjoy reading what I’ve learned this year!

The first part of this series will be what I call ‘The ABC’s of Educators.’ So, today I’ll start with ‘a.’

Approachable.

            This year I’ve learned and observed many things students expect (not simply want) from their teachers and authority. (Parents, peers, pastor, etc.) When raising/teaching children, battles must be wisely and carefully chosen. However, by simply being available and approachable, you, as the authority, teacher, parent, etc., will eliminate over 50% of coming battles. Approachable literally means to be ‘friendly and easy to talk to.’ Stop making predetermined outcomes and assumptions before hearing your student/child’s explanation, and actually listen to their ‘side of the story.’ (One of my ‘rules’ is that a student may ask/say anything as long as it is said with a correct attitude.) Even if the student/child is wrong in their opinion, he/she will feel mutual respect in knowing that a ‘big person’ actually took time to hear his/her story without being belittled, interrupted, or criticized.

            Let your kids know right off that you want to hear their ideas, opinions, and concerns. This also establishes a level of respect between parent/child, teacher/student, etc.

            Another terrific reason to be ‘friendly and easy to talk to’ is that as Christians, we are representatives of Jesus to others. Even little people (kids). It has been said that if you give a child a correct view/concept of God, you will give them the keys to the world. How then can we tell children that God wants to hear their prayers and concerns if we are not willing to do the same? Thought provoking, isn’t it? Therefore, if we: roll our eyes at their ideas, complain through the gritty story details, and judge without hearing the whole matter, it should come as no surprise when children struggle with talking to Jesus. I am not a parent, but I remember how pleased and special I felt when my parents expressed that they wanted to hear what I had to say.

           

What are ways you use to connect or communicate with your kids/students? I’d love to hear them!

Until next time. . .

Entertain Me: Now.

Don't faint! (you may be shocked as this is my second post in two days...). I've been mulling over a few things lately, and thought I would share. :)

How often do we use the word 'entertainment,' or 'entertain?' It would take several hands (and feet) to count the number of times each day I hear students discuss various forms of entertainment at school.  
What comes to your mind at the mention of 'entertainment?' 

A good book?

Romantic movie?

Comedy?

Shopping?

If I were to ask 10 people about their respective opinions on entertainment, I would most likely receive 10 different answers. What would yours be? Should entertainment literally 'entertain' in the sense of keeping your attention, or sitting on the edge of your seat for the next scene, help you un-wind after a stressful day at work, keep the kids occupied while you have some time with your friends/spouse/or get things done? 

The dictionary definition for 'entertainment' is: "the action of providing or being provided with amusement or enjoyment." That would have been my answer, too...that is, until several years ago. A more accurate (Biblical) definition for 'entertainment' is something like this: "that which refreshes, rejuvenates, and provides relaxation and inspiration." (You will most likely not find that in Webster's.) 

If we were to use the word 'entertainment' to describe only the activities that, after doing them, leave you completely refreshed (emotionally, physically, spiritually), reinvigorated, rejuvenated, relaxed, and inspired, would it leave out most of the things you consider entertaining? I realize, of course, riding a four-wheeler is not spiritually invigorating :) (along with other activities of the like), but do you see my point? I enjoy fun activities just as much as you do. Truly. And, I'm no Biblical scholar. However, I've been taking 'inventory' of my entertainment recently, and I've re-discovered a few things. 

1. I enjoy good movies. The Sound of Music. Mary Poppins. Horton Hears a Who. Ratatouille. Finding Nemo. Pride and Prejudice. Fireproof. Courageous. etc. I'm not immune to enjoying a good story. 

I love action, drama, comedy, romance, film music, and helping the good guys win! I find it very enjoyable.

But, how refreshed do you feel after watching a film with innumerable misuses of God's name, inappropriate scenes, innuendo, BUT "the story line is great!?" I used to 'not' notice a lot of those things, but I realized I would rather err on the side of caution and be considered an old 'fogie' than to

risk my relationship with Jesus for the sake of an hour and half film. 

Another thought: what you take in through your eyes and ears often will translate into words, actions, or attitudes. Wondering where your kids are picking up on 'that' kind of attitude, language, etc.? Check what kind of stuff pops up on your internet you-tube history, iTunes, or Netflix subscription. (Take it from this teacher: you'd be surprised how fast kids pick up on negative attitudes, language, ideas, etc. portrayed in music and movies!) 

When choosing a movie for your family, sometime try something enjoyable, clean, and funny, that won't require you to fast-forward most of it. :) You'll find yourself enjoying it more!

Helpful hint: use www.pluggedin.com to look up movies, music, etc. It's a terrific site by Focus on the Family, and gives great Christian reviews. I use it quite often! 

2. I LOVE music. Fast, slow, mellow, dramatic, old, new, relaxing, etc. There's nothing more relaxing for me than to listen to an Opera while cleaning or reading a good book. Ahh. I know, it's odd. But to me, it IS entertaining! I have over 5,000 songs in my iTunes library. That's a lot of music! However, because I love so many different music genres, I have to remember: "All things in moderation." (I'm not condoning listening to EVERY genre of music in moderation, no worries. :)) 

My point is this: I love the Carpenter's. Tony Bennett. Nat King Cole. Celtic Woman. Classical. Frank Sinatra. Opera. Big Band. Easy Listening. However, when I listen solely to these genres constantly, for ME, it becomes a problem. Not because anything is wrong with 'Mona Lisa' (Goodness, I hope not!), just that when my musical diet is composed of all things secular, it's not healthy for me. I've had to find a balance. Even simple things like listening to secular (non-Christian/Classical) music before church services or devotions is an issue for me. It may not be for you. When I listen to Christian music before church/school/devotions, I find myself much more tuned-in to God speaking to me, and it's much easier for me to concentrate on His voice. 

These are only two aspects of entertainment...I'm sure there are many more. There's nothing wrong with having fun, trust me- I have more that most people. :) I have a blast playing tennis on the Wii, laughing at Mr. Bean falling asleep in church, ice-skating, etc. But here's what it boils down to:

*is your 'entertainment' of choice leaving you exhausted or frustrated?

*do you come away feeling as if you're farther from Christ?

*does it make you question your relationship with Christ?

*do you notice negative changes in language, attitude, by you, or your family?

*do you find yourself saying, 'watching/listening to it doesn't mean I'll do it?' 

God loves you. And me. I believe God loves it when His people are happy, and feel

refreshed! I want my entertainment to please Him...not because of the fact 'if God were in this room,'

but because 'God IS in the room.' 

Pleasing Him: it's what life is all about. 

New Year Hullabaloo

Before I pontificate , may I just say, 

Happy New Year! 

The days since my last posting (Thanksgiving) 

have been a bit hair-raising, unpredictable, and difficult for our family, thus is the explanation for my non-postage. (don't you love odd words? not sure that one is uh, accurate in that usage, but it sure is fun to use.) 

If you're not friends with me or my family on Facebook, here's a quick overview...Dad went to Raleigh for a short, quick medical procedure on the Monday after Thanksgiving, and ended up back in Raleigh with a diagnosis of kidney failure on Wednesday morning. It's been a definite roller-coaster ride for all of us since then, but dad finally got to come home on December 14. We took him back to the

ER Christmas Eve night and was released Christmas Day afternoon with diagnosis of MRSA. He is still on dialysis and strong antibiotics, so he is definitely not back 'up to par,' but at least he is home and improving! God is so good. and we are thankful.

The Christmas holidays were interesting, to say the least, considering the previously

explained situation, but it was wonderful getting to spend the Holidays in NC...

where the crisp winter air wafts through the bare trees, cardinals adorn the frost-covered 

clothesline wires, and the early-morning frost decorates the brown, dead grass. 

I love it. It's quite superb, actually. 

Christmas programs (3, actually), school/church parties, Christmas caroling (with students

at the Hospice House, then with church friends to shut-ins), Christmas-cookie-baking,

The K-6 Christmas Program at school- "Not a Creature was Stirring."
It turned out so cute! The kids looked adorable, sang their hearts out,
and did an excellent job! I was so proud of them! 

favorite Christmas tunes on the radio, Christmas movies by the fire, ... the list goes on, 

but I love it all! and so very thankful to get to share these times with my family. 

Fun Gingerbread-baking with 7-8th grade at school.
Whew. This was the 1st time most of them had ever cut out Christmas
cookies. Seriously? How sad is that! the room was a wreck when we
finished and we were all covered in flour, but we all had a blast.
and they tasted great. :)

Our gorgeous live tree (from the NC mtn's) upstairs,
decorated with Waterford Crystal and
ornaments from overseas. It was beautiful! 

Living room upstairs- partially decorated for Christmas.
Unfortunately, I didn't get any pictures of it completed :(
It was beautiful, though! 

enjoyed nifty Christmas decorations 'downtown'
Thomasville during the Thanksgiving parade with
friends from church.

And, just for a laugh....

A snippet of the hilarious older ladies featured in the Thomasville
Christmas parade. Hysterical!


All around, it was a terrific (but flexible) Christmas, and I thoroughly enjoyed all the bustling,
shopping, gift-wrapping, traffic, programs, decorating, etc. that are involved in making the
Season memorable. And, most of all, I love celebrating and reading about the Birth of Jesus.
Still marveling in the Gift of God's Son!

The hour grows late, and I must needs rise early to provide and education for the children
of Thomasville. :) More posts to come later.

A'dieu, until then...

November...EEK!

You must be wondering, "Is she EVER going to up date that blog, or let it die a slow, painful death??" Well, good news and bad news. (didn't you just hate it when your dad used to say that?)
First, the good news: No, the blog is not dead! Very much alive and well (contrary to first glimpses); Bad News: Life happens. Namely, teaching happens, which comes first, and I don't always get to share those fun times as often as I'd like. Sigh. So, there you have it. :)


fun times decorated November! Allow me to share a few with you. :D
The last week of October...

The last week of October, I had to privilege of going to Indiana
to play for my cousin Debra's wedding. Another plus to the
wedding was getting to spend time with the Bride's sister, Tiffany,
who has been my very best friend since we were kids.
Three weeks apart, both pursued ED degrees in college,
and alike in many scary ways!
Love you, Tiffany! 

First, a few school-views of November. . .

My November bulletin in Jr. High- really
happy with how it turned out! Nothing
like trying something new...simply because
you can. :) 

In History, the students made 'log cabins' for the Colonial
Period. Several kids are missing in this pic, but you
get the idea. I loved the creativity! 

                                   Next, of course, comes Thanksgiving! And turkey. and stuff. 

The day before Thanksgiving, the students decorated
our classroom for Christmas. Here is our cute little
tree. They did a great job! All that's missing is Linus' blue
blanket, which I forgot to take that day. :( But as of tomorrow,
it will be our 'tree skirt.' Isn't creativity a grand and glorious thing? :)

                                                           Now, on to Thanksgiving. . .

Grandpa and Grandma Davis came over for the afternoon-
we were so glad they could come! Dad, Kimberly, and I
got an pool lesson from the 'expert.' aka: Grandpa.

 Grandpa, showing up how to shoot it right. He's great!

Our Thanksgiving feast was delicious!
Turkey, of course, Sweet Potato Cass.,
Squash Cass., Oyster Casserole made by
Grandma (one of my favorites!), home-made rolls,
cran-apple salad, cranberry sauce, Pumpkin/Pecan
pies. I'm sure I'm forgetting something, but it
was scrumptious! I am so blessed.

And that about wraps up my November re-cap post. Check out my next blog post, "30-some-Thank-Things," which is about my 'thankful' list. Until then. . .

Knock-knock......... BOO!

 Dear people of the world: This is an important alert to . . . alert you that this blogger is among the land of the living, contrary to popular opinion. 
We extend our apologies for the delay in posting. I'm sure the blog-ee has excellent reasoning for the delinquent pause in posts as of late. 


The end.

Ah. . . the arrival of fall! It is here, this long awaited season. My favorite time of the year, no questions asked. Life has been c.r.a.z.y. That's the only word I can think of to do it justice. 

However, there have been some pretty fun/interesting happenings along with the craziness. :) Allow me to update you on a few. 

Thursday, 9.14.11 

National Donut Day (bet you didn't know that...)

So, my fellow teacher friend Sethanna and I

decided to be brave and actually make donuts with the

7-10th graders at school. Whew. 

So, my lucky reader, here is how to 'make' donuts. :) 

1- Buy canned biscuits. POP them open without jumping. (I dare you to try...) 

2- have excited students (or boring family members) shape them with
a little '0' in the center.

3- place biscuits on paper plates.  

4- after heating oil in skillet/pan, turn heat on low and carefully
drop biscuits into pan, slowing turning with tongs until golden brown. 

5- remove donuts from hot oil and place on paper plate, soaking up
excess grease with paper towel. Using tongs, drop in gallon
bag filled with either powdered sugar, cinnamon/sugar, or sprinkles.
Shake until coated thoroughly. 

6- Voila! Delicious donuts! Bon appetite. 

Best when eaten with large glass of chocolate milk. Mmmm.

Honestly, they were AMAZING! 

It was so delicious, and the kids (ok...me too) had a ton of fun in the process!
For the 'educational' aspect, the students learned how to write a process
essay on 'how to make donuts.' Huge hit with the parents,
I'm quite certain. I've heard multiple reports of families making donuts with the
recipe. Favorite homework assignment of the year! :)

The following day I went to UNCG School of the Arts (University of North Carolina at Greensboro) for a piano lesson with Professor John Salmon. Naturally, I was nervous. Very. But I couldn't have asked for a better lesson! Brilliant sense of humor. In that light, I am in the process of applying for UNCG to begin my MM next fall in the Piano dept. and study under Dr. Salmon. Very excited! In the midst of figuring out dept./audition/Fellowship logistics, but it's looking very promising. 

Stay tuned for more blog updates in the next few days- fun stuff going on, as well as a few blogs on the topic, "Back to the Heart of Worship...or not?" 

And, just for fun, the is the ever-changing view out the front door of the house. Tinges of orange, yellow, and red on the trees = eye candy! 

                                         Happy 1st of October celebrating the wonder of fall! 

...all in a day's work...

I'm sure you must be wondering at my absence of writing the past week or so...

However, I am writing now as a survivor of my very first week of school

as a full-time teacher of Jr. High classes, Elementary Music,

 Jr/High Choir, and 12 private students (music classes and

lessons begin this coming week). 

(HOORAY, everyone!)

WHEW, and what

a week it has been indeed! 

It was something like this...

But, I must say, that the classes I had anticipated

as being the most difficult, are in fact my absolute favorites! 

While Jr. High (7-8th) classes are very different from anything

I've ever taught, I'm really enjoying the experience! So thankful for a 

genuinely terrific group of kids to teach- makes my job

a lot easier. :) 

There were several times this week when I began to feel like this...

...but then I remembered, 

All in all, it was a good week. I entered this 

school year with a plethora of different feelings

about the year, but I already feel as if I've learned 

more than the students! Guess that's good, right?

To shorten this, I'll just share the highlights from this week

to give you an idea of what I've been up to! 

Welcome to my 7-8th Homeroom

where I teach 7th grade Math, NC State History,

and Jr. High Bible Monday-Thursday. (We get

Fridays off...beautiful thing, isn't it?!) 

I do not have 'before' and 'after' pictures of this room...

because...because. :) Let's just say, 

it got a face lift, and my goal was to 'fun-ize' and color it, 

so this is what I came up with...

Our "News Flash" (aka, Current Event) section

with magazines, articles, etc. and the bulletin

board of the month... 

"The Value of an Idea is in Using it."

The little blue hands have words such as

'design,' 'create,' 'inspire,' 'invent,' etc. on them. 

View of my desk and student work display area. 

I never really thought I wanted to be a teacher...

even in college. But suddenly, I can't imagine doing

anything else! Even after days like Wednesday.

(Wednesday was something like Garfield's Monday,

except intensified x 1,000,000. 

But hey, at least

I'm alive to tell about it. :) 

More pictures about activities of the past few weeks 

are soon to come...but first, sleep.

So very invigorated about a long weekend...

No school until from Friday to Monday for me. 

Oh, yes, please! 

Until after zzzzzzzzzz...