Friday, November 09, 2007

Dear Internet,

For the first time in three years, I'm wearing jeans to work. We're trying out "casual Friday", and assuming no one comes to work looking like a complete schlub, we're going to keep it. I came in feeling like I was doing something wrong...probably residual feelings from an insane boss that made me feel horrible for wearing jeans once. I have to keep reminding myself that I don't work for crazy people anymore. Kind of. The Superintendent and Directors have asked me to plan a Festivus gathering in lieu of a Christmas party. Yes, Festivus. I have been instructed to acquire a pole. Apparently Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle loves them.

I've been spending more time in the classroom lately, as I'm doing observations to get a better feel for special education and what area I've like to emphasize. I really like the LD and EBD rooms, but I have to deal with the fact that EBD classes consist of about 90% redirection and 10% instruction. I need to put my idealism aside a little and accept that a lot of kids are extremely averse to learning, regardless of how enthusiastic you may be. But I am not deterred!

Russ and I were out last night and a bearded, extremely dirty man came up to me and said "Amanda?!" I said yes, and it turns out he was someone I went to elementary school with. He was completely crazy in fourth grade, and completely crazy as an adult. He explained that he had just been released from prison, showed us a gaping wound in his leg, repeatedly mentioned his "third degree black belts" and said something about snake fighting and cellphone kiosks. I kept squeezing Russ's hand to prevent myself from exploding, but I think I let some laughs slip. I don't think he noticed. Maybe he did, and he's planning his revenge right now. This looks good.

Anyone catch The Office last night? It was the best new episode I've seen. Wilderness pants-fashioning, A. Knife, cobbler...and that last exchange between Michael and Jim was really funny and touching. I love the absurdity of most of the show, but those genuine moments are my favorite.