1. What’s something you wanted to do this summer that you never got around to doing?

I wanted to clean out some kitchen drawers and find a new dentist. I had a list and for the most part, I did do what I wanted, such as go to various other appointments.

2. Were you the student who sat in the front row or hid in the back of the class? If you could go back and take one high school class again just for fun, which would it be?

It depended on the class but I typically participated in all classes but math. I would probably take Humanities again; the guy who taught it – Mr. Tipton – was so fun.

3. What characteristics do you think are essential in a good teacher (this can be applied to anyone who teaches, not just classroom teachers)? 

Hmm, seeing as how I AM a teacher, this is interesting. You have to have passion in your subject. Even if your students don’t care about it, they’ll feel your love and hopefully get more out of your lectures and activities.

4. September 2nd is National Grits Day. Have you ever eaten grits? Are you a fan? If so how do you like yours? Would people describe you as ‘having grit’?

I love grits!! I am from the South, you know. I like mine slow cooked and usually with butter and a nice runny egg on top. Though, if cheese grits are on the menu – especially gouda – I’ll do that. Oooh, or shrimp and grits! Or grit cakes! So many ways to enjoy.

I think some people would consider me to possess grit; it depends on in what realm. Maybe insomuch as I teach online while also working full time!

5. What’s something you’re never too old or too young to enjoy?

I guess… the only thing that came to mind is a comforting hug. Even if you’re one of these people who shy away from physical contact. Or maybe I should say, a baked good. LOL. But probably more like a sunrise or music.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

Today is busy; my daughter has a meet and it’s the one we have to travel the farthest for, though it is not THAT far. (30 minutes). Because I knew today and tomorrow would be spoken for (tomorrow, we have a fantasy draft) I made myself do stuff the last two evenings. Monday I felt super motivated and I got out and cut some overgrowth and even weed-whacked. Last night I forced myself to stand in the kitchen to log the beer cans. (We have a program where we input them, take photos, then we box them. One day, it’ll be cool to remember the heyday of craft beer and its art.) I was super tired after that but I managed. Slept great last night and yet, I am pretty tired today. Can’t tell if it’s just a mental sleepiness or what.

I had to kind of kick myself out of a bad thought loop this morning. My pool is losing water again and I keep bemoaning it as if that’s serious. I reminded myself that there are far worse things that people are dealing with and I am worried about something fixable. Once I got myself into a better mindspace, I started to take note of the good things around me, namely, the beautiful sunrise and the deer family that clearly lives behind my school. I will post pics below.