Highway to the Phobia Zone

Well, aside from the snow in Chicago (thanks a lot, Mom, for pointing that out to me), and the fact that I am going to have to take THREE (count 'em) airplanes to get to Virginia, I am doing really well today.

The administration bought the teachers breakfast this morning, which was wonderful, and very New Mexican: I ate posole, red chile enchiladas with sour cream, and tortillas, and, I also ate a cinnamon roll that wasn't very Southwestern, but tasted pretty good. Three of my students brought me Christmas gifts, which is pretty good for a high school teacher (usually the kids are too busy buying for their girl/boyfriends to worry about their educators - ha ha), and, best of all,
I also had a chance to talk with our district's curriculum coordinator, who offered me the chance to go with her to the New Mexico Public Education Department meetings on revising the state's standards of learning for English/Language Arts.

I am thrilled to have been asked to do this! Next year, I am planning to work on getting my National Board Certification for Teaching (NBCT) and this is such a terrific professional opportunity for me as I begin the NBCT application process. It hasn't been finalized yet, but the principal here at the high school gave her "o.k.," and now it's just up to the state committee to accept me as a member of their team.

I will let you guys know what happens.

Meanwhile, I am stocking up on anti-anxiety medication for my 10 hour trip home. Yes, it really is going to take 10 hours. About 5 and a half of them are going to be in the air. And I will get to spend some "quality time" in the great city of Denver on Sunday, so you can all think of me and send hopeful thoughts that the airport is well stocked with books and coffee (which are all I really need to call my time 'quality'). I will see you all soon!

LOVE,
Emily
P.S. - I am planning to stay overnight, just so you know, Mom. (laugh)