Massive Update

Seems like I've let too much time pass between my last blog, and even that was just a DIY blog. I'm going to attempt to sum up my life activities in just a few paragraphs, and then maybe I can start updating this thing on a regular basis again.

Summer Re-cap
I must say that I enjoyed my summer of zero grad school and some mini-trips here and there. I road tripped it to Memphis with some friends, and went to Vegas with my mom! Both were filled with great times, more notably: Civil Rights Museum, Graceland, Britney Spears Piece of Me Show. I also indulged in lots of delicious food. Memphis was a binge fest of BBQ and fried chicken. I had wonderful meals in Vegas of course, Eiffel Tower Restaurant being the fanciest meal of my life, and Wicked Spoon being the best buffet I've ever been to. I took advantage of Dallas's Restaurant week (that actually lasts for 3 weeks) and went to Capital Grille, Kenny's Wood Fired Grill, and Silver Fox. I have transformed into a major food snob, and am willing to try anything. I also went on some nice dates, and took advantage of some interesting spots in the Dallas area. Perk of the dating game I guess...

The moment I was able to move into my classroom, I did. I moved my classroom stuff from Cynde's house to Rachel's house, where it was stored for 3 weeks, and then my mom helped me move into the classroom. I spent a lot of time up at school for a week or so, but it didn't take as long to set up as my first classroom. Going into a blank (clean) slate was really nice. I also now know what I like, and I gravitated to areas that were similar to my Christie classroom set-up. I feel like it looks like my Christie Classroom, but updated! Clean carpet, clean walls, new furniture, updated technology, pretty colors. It's just really nice to go to work in such a beautiful facility!

Norris Elementary
Opening a new school has turned out to be such a joyful experience. The faculty is so enthusiastic, and everyone is coming from different schools, districts, states, and levels of experience, so the ideas that are presented are AWESOME. I am on a team of 3 teachers and am serving as team leader again. My team mates are both new to the district, but they are such go-getters, I don't stress about much! We also made a change to have a 3-way rotation, and I teach Math ONLY. I love being able to see every student in the grade level, and focus on my strength. Our class size is also pretty low for our opening year, so I am able to meet with all of my students in math workshop. Since this is the second year of the new math TEKS, I am able to take things to the next level with my small group instruction, and I am utilizing more technology (Google Classroom) for enrichment. These students are SMART, and I want to make sure I am challenging all of them! I also have really great PTA and parent support so far, so this year is just shaping out to be wonderful!

Grad School Update
I'm taking my final 2 courses and will have completed the program this December! Although I will have my Masters degree, I still have to go through an internship program and take a test in order to obtain my Principal Certification. This will take place in the Spring of 2016 and will be a 16 week program where I work closely with Principal (like student teaching) for 160 hours and will have a supervisor from UNT. I can't believe it is almost over! I think teaching only math this year is such a blessing and I am able to put a lot of energy toward growing as a leader.

Running Update
Didn't do much running this summer. I hate the heat. However, I am running the Dallas 1/2 Marathon in December, and the New Orleans Rock and Roll Marathon in February, so I have taken baby steps towards training again! I just run better when I have a partner!!!

Travel Update
Here's what I have on my radar so far, but am not opposed to adding more:
November 6- 9 Boston, MA
Got some cheap flight tickets for this trip! It extended the trip for an extra day, and I am spending some time with my college friends! Love them and can't wait to explore this city!
December - Oklahoma
I can't wait to meet my little nephew that is due on Christmas!!!
February 27 - 29 New Orleans, LA
The purpose of this trip is to run a Marathon, but I am sure to see some amazing sights in the 26.2 mile jaunt! It will be great to eat at "Mother's" after the marathon, cafe du monde, obviously, and some Bourbon and French Quarter action.
March 6-11 Seattle, WA and Vancouver, Canada
Spring Break! Off to see my friend Cynde and explore Seattle while staying with her, and the plan is to take a few days to go to Vancouver and do some ziplining!

I'm sure I'll have to take a mental health trip after STAAR testing! I'll have to get with my friends to figure out where we're going to go!!!