Monday, October 20, 2014

"Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light." --Helen Keller

I spent the weekend assisting one of my sorority sisters through a life change.  Selfishly I am thrilled for the extra time we are spending together and that Ray and I get to dog-sit my dog-niece while she's away with her family for the week.  Unselfishly I just hope I'm being the type of friend I'd want if I were in her shoes.  Here's hoping I'm doing that vision justice in the name of her health and happiness.

The week leading up to the weekend was busy (no surprise) due to school activities:  Student Council organized Homecoming week, which made for a very festive and energetic school environment.  Since the school where I teach is also my high school alma mater, I particularly enjoy the spirit of the building and the Friday afternoon pep rally.

Concurrently, the students I advise in GSA took pledges for Ally Week, and since we had inservice on Monday and Tuesday, GSA is continuing to take pledges today and tomorrow.  Allies support a safe school environment free from bullying and harassment for all students, but especially lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans* students.  The Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network (abbreviated GLSEN which is pronounced like the word "glisten") spearheaded the campaign beginning in 2005.  Adolescents are already going through so many rites of passage subjecting them to the judgement of others that no matter our political leanings regarding LGBT equality, I cannot imagine questioning the need for safe schools for EVERY student regardless of romantic or sexual orientation.  Therefore, I am always very happy to support my students during pledge week.

GSA students also participated in the homecoming tailgate by providing face painting and temporary tattoos along with Art Club.  It was a beautiful night with perfect weather and a lot of school spirit--especially since the football team won the homecoming game by a landslide of 40-7.

This upcoming Saturday is Homecoming/Family Weekend at my post-secondary alma mater, Lehigh University.  Ray and I are looking forward to taking Aubrey and Courtney to the Lehigh v. Fordham tailgate and football game, which will be complete with activities for the children as well as a yummy buffet.  My aunt/Godmother and her husband will also be accompanying us, which is nice because she is a 1980 Graduate School of Education alumna.

On Sunday, we hope to make it to church, especially since this past week, Sunday's half-marathon closed the street and the service was Saturday night instead of Sunday morning.  We couldn't attend Saturday night, so I look forward to enjoying this Sunday's Samhain sermon which will explain the ancient Celtic festival that is the origin of Halloween and All Saints Day.

I will likely be MIA for a few weeks since the first marking period is rounding out and I'll need to hup-two on grades.  My goal at the moment will be a post over Thanksgiving holiday, but no promises!  Until then...

Joyfully,
KSN

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