Tuesday, November 29, 2005

THE JOYS OF HIGH SCHOOL

Most of us spent 4 years trying to get out of high school...I continue to spend each and every day loving being there. I was recently reminded that I have been teaching for 11 years. YIKES! At first I felt old, but then I felt happy...how many people can say they have spent that much time doing something they truely enjoy.

I have been asked how I can spend that much time with teenagers, or how I can put up with the public education system...all I can say is that where else do you get to go and get paid for playing. I get to talk about literature, watch plays, watch young performers grow. It is am amazing way to make a living.

Many people feel that our education system is the downfall of society. But what are those people doing to improve it? Nothing! They complain, pull their kids out of the schools but don't offer any suggestions as to what they feel will help make things better.

I love what I do! I love my students! I love being a teacher!

Thursday, November 10, 2005

Happy Birthday Marines!

On November 10, 1775 an organization was developed that today continues to protect our great nation. As you go through your day remember those who have served in the Marine Corps and thank those who have protected our freedoms.


Remember to wear RED on Friday's to show those who continue to fight, serve and give their lives for what many feel entitled to that we love and support them.


A Message From The Commandant of the Marine Corps'2005 Birthday Message

On November 10th, 1775, the Second Continental Congress resolved to raise two battalions of Continental Marines marking the birth of our United States Marine Corps. As Major General Lejeune’s message reminds us, the ensuing generations of Marines would come to signify all that is highest in warfighting excellence and military virtue. Each November as Marines the world over celebrate the birth of our Corps, we pay tribute to that long line of “Soldiers of the Sea” and the illustrious legacy they have handed down to us.

This past year has been one of continuous combat operations overseas and distinguished service here at home—a year of challenges that have brought out the very best in our Corps. In Iraq and Afghanistan, Marine courage and mastery of complex and chaotic environments have truly made a difference in the lives of millions. Marine compassion and flexibility provided humanitarian assistance to thousands in the wake of the South East Asian tsunami, and here at home, Marines with AAVs, helicopters, and sometimes with their bare hands saved hundreds of our own fellow Americans in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Across the full spectrum of operations, you have showcased that Marines create stability in an unstable world, and have reinforced our Corps’ reputation for setting the standard of excellence.

The sense of honor, courage, and patriotism that epitomized those who answered that first call to arms two hundred and thirty years ago is still indelibly imprinted on our ranks today. In commemorating our anniversary, let us strengthen our ties to the past by paying homage to those who have gone before us. As we honor the sacrifices of our wounded and fallen comrades, our commitment to one another remains unshakable. We take special pride in the actions of the Marines now serving in harm’s way, and rededicate ourselves to the service of our Nation and our Corps.

Happy Birthday, Marines. Semper Fidelis, and Keep Attacking!

M. W. Hagee
General, U.S. Marine Corps

Tuesday, November 08, 2005

A weekend in Wine Country

Spent the weekend in Temecula for the Fall Harvest Celebration. We had a great time. Although overall the wines were a bit disappointing. We did however find two new wineries, both have only been open for about a month. This was some amazing wine. If you have the opportunity to visit this wine country I suggest you go to Foote Print (on Glen Oaks) and Doffo. They are both off the beaten path but worth looking for.

So, next time you are in So Cal and want a weekend of ultimate relaxation, head to Temecula, you won't be disappointed.

Friday, November 04, 2005

Fireworks, Flame and Old Fogies...

I had the opportunity to see the Rolling Stones, and man can those guys ROCK!!!!! The show was amazing, and they sound as good as they always have. The set was incredible, no wonder they had to charge an arm and a leg for tickets, it was huge.

If you haven't had the chance to experience this band live...do it! As one of my students said..."you never know when they will break up or die."