10-31-2017 Happy Halloween!

Weather: High of 68 degrees and windy.

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + water
Lunch = salad with cucumber, cheese, peppers, tomatoes, egg, and honey mustard + 1 banana + water
Supper = salad + steamed veggies + roast beef + meat pie + cheesecake + water

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll call/ silent reading
8:45 - Drama
9:25 - Drama
10:00 - Casey's math lesson on direction
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - PE
11:40 - Language
12:20 - Language
1:00 - Lunch (bootcamp with the 'naughty' kids)
1:55 - PATS math test
2:35 - the tests went a little longer so once they were done, I read Hatchet until it was time to pack up
3:15 - Home time

    Today I go up, got ready, ate breakfast, and caught the bus just like every other day.
    I got to school around 8 am, got the board ready, and printed off the papers I needed for my lesson. My quote of the day was; Shadows of a thousand years rice again unseen, voices whisper in the trees, "Tonight is Halloween". In honor of it being Halloween!
    I only taught my math lesson today so it was a really easy day.
    Today, the students got to dress up as their favorite animal if they brought a gold coin ($1 or $2) donation. So, about 3/4 of the class dressed up so that was fun!
    After school I got back around 4:30. I then did a 45 minutes workout off my Nike app and went for a 4 mile walk. It was really windy out today and actually a bit chilly, but it was nice to get outside and enjoy some fresh air!
    Once I got back, I saw Jeanette was outside. I then realized she was out trying to chase down trick-or-treaters to give them candy! We finally got 2 and then later, after supper, one of her friends and her daughter came over for about half an hour. So in total we had 3 trick-or-treaters. Halloween isn't nearly as big as it is in America, but it was still fun to get to experience it here.
    We ate supper around 7, visited with Jeanette's friend and her daughter, then I updated my blog, got ready for bed, and went to bed around 9:30.

Tomorrow is our last day of classes for the week before we got to our outdoor ed camp on Thursday and Friday!
Happy Hump Day tomorrow! :)

 Jeanette's friends' daughter! 1 of our 3 trick-or-treaters :)

10-30-2017

Weather: high of 92 degrees. chance of scattered showers in the evening

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = Salad with avocado, tomatoes, egg, peppers, ham, and honey mustard + rice cakes + water
Supper = beef + steamed veggies + salad + mint ice cream + lemonade + water

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading
8:45 - Math Measurement Post Test
9:25 - Casey's lesson on Ecosystems
10:00 - Language
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Language
11:40 - Casey's math lesson on grid reference
12:20 - Casey's carry over lesson on grid reference and started mapping their islands
1:00 - Lunch (Helped out Mr. Engelbert with 6 boys for 'game lunch'. Once they've finished eating they then have the remainder of the time to play board games together.)
1:55 - Casey's grammar lesson on synonyms
2:35 - Music
3:15 - Music/ Home Time

    Today I got up, got ready, ate breakfast, and went to the bus stop. I then got on the bus and arrived at the school around 8 am.
    Once I got to school, I got things ready for my lessons, wrote the quote of the day on the board, and arranged the schedule on the board for the day.
    This week is back to normal where I don't teach all the lessons so that was a nice break. I still taught 4 periods today, but there wasn't as much stress and pressure like last week. The kids were very chatty and loud today, so we need to remind them to be respectful and to praise the students that are doing the right thing and are on task.
    The day went on as normal, but during lunch I went to the 'Social Skills Lunch' for 6 boys in grade 3. These boys are also part of the bootcamp we run on Tuesdays, so they are a interesting bunch. Many of them have some type of disorder where they have trouble with social skills so these groups are supposed to be helping with that.
    After lunch, they day carried on as normal.
    Once the kids left for music, I got the board and stuff ready for tomorrow. I also corrected their work from today so I didn't end up leaving the school until around 4:30. Oh well, I got it done so that's good and keeps me on top of the grading so it isn't all piled up for me on Friday.
    I then caught the bus and got home around 5:30.
    I quickly changed and went for a 4.25 mile run/ walk which I completed in just over 45 minutes. It was so windy out that it was tough going running into the wind, but I made it and it felt good to get that in for the day! I also did a 30 minute workout off my Nike app when I got back.
    After that, I showered and then it was time for supper.
    We ate and then I did some lesson planning and updated my blog. I then got ready for bed, read for a bit, and went to bed around 10:30. I need to start getting to bed earlier! :/

Goodnight, and Happy Halloween Tomorrow! :) 

10-29-2017

Weather: HOT! Today was a high of 80 degrees with little breeze

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + banana + orange juice
Lunch = stir fry with chicken, rice, peppers, and teriyaki sauce + 2 macaroons + lemonade + water
Supper = stir fry + cheesecake + water

    Today, I got up for the day around 8 am. I then got ready for the day and started on my homework and lesson plans. I had a lot to do and family and friends to talk to as well. I also took a break and went for a 6 mile walk/run around 5. This took about an hour and a half. I then got back showered, and heated up my super.
    After super then, I worked a bit more on my homework and other little stuff I needed to do for the up coming week.
    Today was pretty boring in terms of going out and doing stuff. It was nice though to just stay in and work hard to prepare for the week.
    After updating my blog, I got ready for bed, read for a bit, and went to bed around 10.

Let another week begin! :)

My breakfast today!

10-28-2017

Weather: High of 80 degrees. It was a warm one

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + orange juice
Lunch = fruit + 1 slice of pizza + a bluana smoothie
Supper = some Indian food from the festival

    Today, I woke up at 6:30 so I started a load of laundry before I went back to bed.
    I got up for the day at 8 and hung my laundry out, ate breakfast, organized the towel/ sheet closet for Jeanette because I couldn't find a wash cloth so hopefully she doesn't mind. I also did my workouts which consisted of 45 minutes of yoga and 15 minutes abs, showered and got ready for the day.
    After all of that, it was almost noon so I quickly got my bag together and headed out to catch the bus. I then took the bus and a couple trains to Strathfield where I got another bus that took me to the DFO which is a huge outlet mall with discounted prices. I got there around 2 and shopped until about 4:30 when Jeanette texted me to get on the bus and meet her at Olympic Park Station. From here we were going to go to the Spirit, Mind, and Body festival that was there.
    I got there just fine and met her. I also got to meet her granddaughter who is about 8 months old. She was super cute.
    From there, we went to the festival until around 7:00 when it ended. Then I got on a train and only switched trains once to get back to our area.
    I got home around 8:30, showered, caught up on my devotions and my blog, and went to bed.
    I was going to do some homework but I'm just too tired. I'll do it tomorrow! :)

Goodnight!   

10-27-2017

Weather: High of 75 degrees with scattered showers all day

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = food from the staff meeting + fruit when I got home
Supper = breaded fish + steamed veggies + salad + cheesecake + lemonade + water

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading
8:45 - Digital Citizenship
9:25 - Library
10:00 - Math Rotation 5
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Spelling Test/ Read Hatchet
11:40 - Golden Time (Because we were tied for the teacher vs. student "game", we split the time. I read some of Hatchet and then they could pick between games or working on their shelters for the remainder of the time. I was happy to see that over half the class worked on their shelters!)
12:20 - Music
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Language
2:35 - Language
3:15 - Home Time

    Today I got up, got ready, ate breakfast and walked to the bus stop like normal. It was pouring rain, so I decided to walk to the closer bus stop so it wouldn't be quite as bad. Luckily though, when I was walking it let up a little bit so that was good.
    Once I got to school, I got things ready for the day and talked with Mr. Engelbert about my lessons and such for the day.
    It was a pretty laid back day because they have a lot of 'extra' classes like library and digital citizenship that we don't teach in our classroom.
    Classes and the day went by and then at 12:20 we walked them to music and that is when my full time teacher duties ended.
    I stayed around for the staff meeting at 1, mostly for the free food :), and then caught the bus and went home.
    When I got home, I ate, read, and relaxed for a bit.
    After awhile then, I did my workout.
    Finally, Jeanette got home and we ate supper. She was in a hurry because she had to got to her daughter's house this weekend to watch her granddaughter while her daughter and son-in-law are away at a wedding. So, she quickly made supper and other food for the weekend and then took off.
    After supper then I did a quick ab workout, showered, read quite a bit of my book, and went to bed. I was super tired and exhausted from teaching this week but it went well and I learned a lot.

 Pictures from home. They got snow, just a little bit but it's there. 

 Our baby kitties didn't know what to think of the snow. 

10-26-2017

Weather: High of 75 degrees with scattered showers in the evening

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = salad with peppers, tomatoes, cheese, cucumbers, egg, and honey mustard + rice cake + banana + cupcake from student + water
Supper = gluten free wrap + falafel balls + water + mint chocolate ice cream bar

Schedule:
8:35 - Writing Intros/ Roll Call
8:45 - Math (I taught the enrichment group during this time)
9:25 - Math carry over
10:00 - Language
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Language
11:40 - Math: Rotation 4
12:20 - Lunch
1:00 - Sport
1:55 - Sport
2:35 - Sport
3:15 - Home Time/ Drive By

     Today, I got up, got ready, ate breakfast, and walked to the bus stop like normal. I got on the bus and heading into school.
     Once at school, I got everything ready. I also printed off the worksheets and materials we would be using throughout the day. I was only teaching math today, so it was pretty easy to get everything ready.
    After everyone came in, I took the roll and then we split up into our math groups. Mr. Engelbert and I took the enrichment kids (the ones who excel in math) and went up to the high school science room. I then taught them about the difference between mass and weight. This lesson went really well so I was happy about that.
    Later on, I then taught the difference between mass and weight as a brief lesson to the rest of the class before we split up into their math rotation groups.
    Next was lunch, and then we had sport for the rest of the day. This week, again, Mr. Engelbert and I took about 20 students from year 5 and 6 to Sydney University to use their rock climbing wall.
    When we got back then, it was time to pack up and go home. I ended up staying back to correct work, and talk to Mr. Engelbert because I was going to meet Jeanette at Central Station at 5.
    There was a bit of confusion on where to meet so by the time we found each other is was a little past 5:30. The bus ride to where we were going to go was going to take awhile so we decided to go to the mall close by and grab something to eat.
    We then looked around for a bit, picked up some food for Takuya and got a train and bus back home.
    We finally got home around 8:30. I showered, got ready for bed, and finished my book so I finally went to bed around 10:30.

Yay for Friday tomorrow and for finishing my first full week of teaching! :)

 Our classroom all picked up at the end of the day. 

Central Train Station

10-25-2017

Weather: High of 80 degrees with some showers forming in the evening

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = salad with cucumber, tomato, egg, avocado, peppers, and honey mustard + rice cakes + banana + water
Supper = left over meat from last night + pizza + steamed veggies + mint chocolate ice cream bar + water

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Finish Reports
8:45 - Assembly
9:25 - Language/ Mr. Engelbert ran the 6th grade enrichment math
10:00 - Language/ Mr. Engelbert ran the 6th grade enrichment math
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Healthy Harold
11:40 - Healthy Harold
12:20 - Healthy Harold until 12:45; the student then wrote about how they should behave better because they were very disrespectful during the presentation
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Math: Rotation #3
2:35 - Camp Meeting/ Pack up
3:15 - Home Time/ Mr. Engelbert runs the gymnastics club.
*There were chairs set up in the gym for the concert tonight, so they watched gymnastic videos for awhile and then could work on little things in the classroom or peace garden.

    Today I got up, got ready, ate breakfast, and walked to the bus stop like I always do. I got on the 423 bus at 7:20 and headed to school.
    I got to school right at 8, and then I had my meeting with my supervisor (Mr. Hamper) at that time. The meeting lasted about 20 minutes and it went well. He was just going over his observation notes he took while watching my lesson on Tuesday.
    After that, I went to the classroom and got things ready for the day.
    The students got to class at 8:35 and started working on their reports right away. Most groups finished except one, so I will have to talk to them tomorrow to see where they are at because they really need to be done.
    At 8:45 we went down to assembly and started the day.
    They days have been going by so fast, especially today because we had the Happy Harold presentation. During this time, a lady came in and talked to the class about the effects of smoking and how harmful it is. It was a good message and hopefully the students learned from it.
*There were a few students who we had to remind to quit talking about 4-5 times, so when we got back to the classroom the whole class had to write for 5 minutes on how their attitudes should change. This was a good activity because this was the first time I've seen Mr. Engelbert really be hard on them, so it was good to see how he handled it and how the students reacted to it as well. After that, they were pretty good for the rest of the day.
    Today, we also had a camp meeting with the other two 5th grade classes. Next week on Thursday and Friday, we are going to an outdoor ed camp. I get to go along so that should be fun. So, this meeting was just explaining what would be going on and what to bring and not to bring on this trip.
    Finally, they day was over and I had planned on going to gymnastics but Mr. Engelbert then informed me that there was a Professional Development meeting from 4-5 that I would be attending. Yay... (not). Oh well, it's part of the job/ experience. The meeting was on cyber bullying and how to teach kids about being safe on the internet. It was really good and there was a lot of information, but it went past 5 and after a long day I just wanted to go home.
    I finally got the bus and got home around 6:05, I then went for a 4 mile run/ walk.
    I got back around 7, showered, and ate supper.
    I then finished up eating and worked on some homework and got stuff ready for tomorrow. Then I updated my blog, got ready for bed, and went to bed around 10:30.

Tomorrow is an easy day with sport in the afternoon so that won't be too bad. Time for some sleep though, this week has been exhausting.

The trail I usually run on. I decided to take it on my way home from the bus stop! 

 

10-24-2017

Weather: Today was a high of 79 with clear, blue skies

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk

Lunch = salad with tomatoes, peppers, egg, cucumbers, and honey mustard + banana + water

Supper = salad + steamed veggies + beef + mint chocolate ice cream bar + water

Schedule:

8:35 - Roll Call/ Working on their letters home

8:45 - Topic lesson; finishing their research papers, getting their supplies for on the island, planning their shelter, and starting to build their shelter

9:25 - carry over from previous lesson

10:00 - carry over from previous lesson

10:40 - Recess

11:00 - P.E.

11:40 - Language

12:20 - Language

1:00 - Lunch; Mr. Engelbert and I went down to help with 'boot camp', in the gym, for the naughty kids

1:55 - Read 5 pages of Hatchet and they did a Reading PATs Test

2:35 - carry over of test, and Math; Rotation #2

3:15 - Home Time

    Today I woke up, got ready, ate breakfast, and walked to the bus stop. I got the 423 at 8:20 and was on my way to school. 

    I got to school and in the classroom right at 8, so I was able to get things ready and talk to Mr. Engelbert about the day. 

    At 8:35 we started the day with adding to the letters 'home' they had started in their topic journals the day before. These were written as their characters and addressed to either friends or family. 

    Next, at 8:45 we started the lesson. We started by taking about 15-20 minutes to finish up their research papers from last week. Next, they got to pick the supplies they would have on their island. This was either 5 or 6 things depending on their group size. Then we went over the guidelines for building their island shelters, which they then had to get approved by me. Finally, after they had been approved they were able to start building. My supervisor was also watching the first part of this lesson, so I'm please with how well it went. We meet tomorrow morning at 8 to go over everything he saw and any pointers he might have. Hopefully he thinks it went as well as I did! 

    Next, the students were busy all the way until after lunch so I was able to work on other things and plan some for next week. 

    After lunch then, I read 5 pages from Hatchet and then they started their PATs reading comprehension test. Once they were done, they went into their math rotation groups and worked on that until the end of the day. Not everyone got to the math part, but at least most of them finished their test so now that is out of the way. We will do the math one next week.

    Finally, at 3:30 I caught the 423 bus and headed home. I got back around 4:20, had a snack and relaxed until around 4:45, and then I started my workout. I did a 45 minute workout off my Nike app and then I went for a 6 mile run/walk. 5 miles of which I did under an hour so I was pretty happy about that and I feel really good after have been consistently working out for about 2 weeks now! 

    After that, I got back around 7 and took a quick shower. We then ate supper and I started updating this blog around 8:15. 

   Once I was finished writing, I got ready for bed, read for a bit, and was in bed by 9-9:30. I've been pretty good at getting to bed at a decent time, not only do I love sleep but I also don't get sick and I have more energy that way! Sleep is amazing. 

Tomorrow is already Wednesday! Happy Hump Day! :)    

10-23-2017

Weather: High of 69, mostly sunny

Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = salad with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, egg, and honey mustard + banana + water
Supper = salad + steamed veggies + lentil burger + BBQ ribs + cheesecake + lemonade

Schedule:
8:35 - Silent Reading/ Roll Call
8:45 - Drama: 3 Activities based on the book The Island
9:25 - Drama: carry over from period before
10:00 - Language
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Langauge
11:40 - Math: Mass Lesson
12:20 - Math: Rotation #1
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Read 5 pages from Hatchet, started Spelling unit 23, went over the homework for the week
2:35 - Music
3:15 - Music/ Home time

    Today I got up, got ready, ate breakfast, and walked to the bus stop. I got the 7:18 bus and was to school by 7:55.
    Once I got to school I got the schedule for the day ready, changed the date, wrote my quote of the day, and looked over my lessons for the day. Today was my first day of being the full time teacher so I wanted everything to go well.
    At 8:35 the students started to come in so once everyone was there, Mr. Engelbert told them I would be the main teacher this week. I then took roll and we started drama right at 8:45.
    My drama lesson went really well. They did 3 activities on the book we are reading called The Island by Armin Greder. The students followed directions and I was really impressed about how well everything went.
    They went off to language, recess, and more language starting at 10:00, so I was able to look over my next couple lessons and get stuff ready that I needed.
    At 11:40, we started the math lesson on math. These two periods were my worst lessons so far. The video I had picked wasn't very helpful at explaining mass as I thought it would be, the questions that went along with it didn't work, and I had forgotten the 5th math group. It was all over the place and very stressful. Once everyone got into their groups, it went better and I felt more confident but because we didn't do much of the introduction lesson, we ended too early. I then had the students start their letters home that deals with our topic of shipwrecked. This was a good example of having to be flexible.
    I really enjoy math, but I find it to be the most difficult to teach because either students understand it or they don't. This lesson was really bad, but it was a good learning experience. My teachers was really good about giving me advice and pointers but also saying that it is ok. Don't worry about it because things happen and you can't be perfect.
    Next we had lunch.
    After lunch, I read 6 pages from Hatchet, explained the homework for the week and they started unit 23 in their Spelling books.
     At 2:30 then, we started packing up and sent them off to music. The day was done. I can't believe how fast it went!
     Finally I got home at 4:40.
    I relaxed until about 5 and did a 45 minute workout off my Nike app. This was great and I was able to let all the stress and worry go from the events of the day.
    After that, I did a little homework and lesson planning before supper which was at 7:00.
    We ate and then I showered and got ready for bed.
     I then updated my journal, read a chapter in my book, and went to bed around 10.

Tomorrow is a new day! Wish me luck :)

 The snail I saw on my way to the bus stop today! 

10-22-2017

Weather Today: High of 65 with possible showers in the afternoon and evening

Breakfast = Fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = falafel balls + sweet potato fries + salad + a green bean salad + water
Supper = pulled beef + flat bread + curry + rice + water

    Today I woke up, got ready, walked to the bus stop, and met Anne at the bus stop around 8:30 to go to church. We took the bus all the way to Town Hall and then took the train the little ways that was left to Bondi Junction. We then got a quick coffee (hot chocolate for me) and walked to Jubilee church.
    We got there just in time, and the praise and worship part started at 10:00, with the sermon to follow at 11:00.
    We got done around noon and headed back to the mall for some lunch. We met up with one of Anne's friends who joined us for lunch as well.
    After we ate, we looked around the shops for a bit before I had to catch the train to meet Jeanette at 2:15 at central.
    Once I found her, we got on another train that took us to Circular Quay and then walked the little ways to the Rocks Market. This is a huge market that goes on every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It was nice and I had a lot of fun looking at all the Australian made products, but then it started to rain. And I mean really rain! So that wasn't too fun, but we made the most of it.
    After looking around the Rocks for a bit, we got on a ferry. The ferry took us to Darling Harbour where we looked around more shops and she showed me around in that area for a bit. We were planning on eating at the Novotel, where Lewis got a job, for supper so we had a little time to kill.
    Around 6:30 we made our way to the Novotel, got seated and ordered our food. It was really good, except the curry was a little too spicy.
    After supper, we then got on the light rail that was going to take us to Dulwich Hill. There wasn't a bus for another hour so we had planned on walking. Hopefully it wasn't raining when we got there.
    When we arrived at the last stop before ours, it was pouring down so it didn't look like it was going to be a very fun walk home. Luckily, when we got to Dulwich Hill it was just sprinkling so we headed home. We got just to the end of the buildings with cover and it started to pour. Thankfully, it didn't last very long and we only had a few drops on the rest of our walk.
    We got back around 9:30, I showered and then went straight to bed. I had had a long and and I had a big week coming up. I'm the full time teacher this week so wish me luck! :)

 The opera house and bridge from my view on the ferry on this rainy day. 

Selfie, because I'm almost already half way done! :)

10-21-2017

Weather: Today it was around 65 degrees and pretty windy. It was a nice break from the heat though.

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = chicken stir fry + chocolate biscuits + water
Supper = leftover meat from last night + salad + steamed veggies + lemonade + water + cheesecake

    Today, I got up at 8 to FaceTime my sister because I needed her help with something on my computer at home, I also wanted to catch up so I guess that was good too! :)
    After talking to her, I got ready for the day and started laundry. I then talked to my mom for a little over an hour which was nice. I was supposed to meet some friends around noon to eat and then go to a festival, but they umm "weren't feeling well" due to the night before so those plans evaporated. This was ok, because I was able to have a day to relax and to myself so that was good too. 
    Next, I brought up the Sioux vs. Gopher hockey game and listened to the rest of the game while I waited for my laundry to get done and my dad to call. We ended up losing 2-1 so that was a bummer.
   Around 2, my dad called so I talked to him and my mom again. It was a shorter conversation because they wanted to get to bed so we got caught up on everything so that was good.
    After talking with them, I then did 3 yoga workouts that last an hour and a half!! It felt really good and I was glad I got the motivation to do it. After that, I went for a 4.5 mile walk and got outside!
    Once I got back, supper was almost ready so we ate around 7. We got done eating and talking around 8:15 and then I caught up on my blog post from yesterday and today.
    I got that all caught up and then I showered and got ready for bed. I have to be ready by 8:20 to walk to the bus stop to meet Anne for church tomorrow, so no sleeping in again but I'm looking forward to church again. I think the plan is to go for breakfast before church so that'll make for a nice morning! Then, after church I plan on meeting Jeanette and going to some shops/ markets during the afternoon and hopefully out for supper after that! I'll fill you in tomorrow but for now, goodnight! :)

10-20-2017

Weather: Today it was pouring rain. It hasn't rained like that since I got here. It was a good rain because we needed it, but not good for people who have to walked to bus stops and such. Also, it was only about 60 degrees, so quite the change from Thursday.

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast
Lunch = watermelon + hard boiled egg + rice cakes
Supper = Roast + salad + steamed veggies + ice cream

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ check homework
8:45 - Digital Citizensip
9:25 - Library
10:00 - Math Rotation 5
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Spelling and working on research papers
11:40 - Golden Time and working on research papers
12:20 - Music
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Language
2:35 - Language
3:15 - Home time


     Today I got up, got ready, ate breakfast, and then walked to the bus stop. Luckily Jeanette let me borrow an umbrella so I didn't get soaked but I was still quite soggy.
    Once at the bus stop, I had to wait for almost 15 minutes before the bus came. I don't know if it was because of the bad weather or what. This in turn made me late for school so I arrived at 8:10. I walked in and a student's parents were there to go over progress and such, so I felt bad for walking in on that. They felt a little uncomfortable with me there anyways, so I went and printed some papers off to keep busy.
    Finally, I was able to go in with the students around 8:35 and get stuff ready.
    The day went by quickly and everything went well. Because the students have music and then their two periods of language in the afternoon, I was able to leave early but Mr. Engelbert asked if I wanted to come to the all staff meeting at one. I didn't really want to, but I thought it'd be a good experience and it's in my requirements to attend, so I went. I didn't take very long and they had free food so that is always a plus.
    After school, I went to the Broadway mall and picked up avocados for Jeanette and to look around some of the shops quick. It wasn't raining then, but when I got out it had started again and the wind had picked up.
    I walked to the bus stop and waited for the 423 to come.
    I finally got home around 2:30 and ate a little lunch.
    I then relaxed for a bit before my workout. Then I workout, showered, and online shopped for a bit.
    Around 7, supper was ready so we ate and talked about our day. Jeanette and I had planned to go out for supper but because it was raining, she just came home and made some here.
    After supper, I watched the movie Cellular then talked with Jeanette and her friend for a bit. Her friend had just been to Christchurch, New Zealand so we compared our trips. I think she got to see more of it then I did and we were there for the same amount of time!
    After that, I read a couple chapters in my book and went to bed around 11. I had to get up at 8 the next more to FaceTime my sister before she went off with friends, so not a lot of sleeping in for me this weekend.

Yay for completing week 6! Almost half way done! :)  

10-19-2017

Daily Weather: Today was a high of 80 degrees with clear skies and sunny. It was a hot one.

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + 1 hardboiled egg + milk
Lunch = a salad with cheese, ham, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, egg, and honey mustard + 1 banana + water
Supper =

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Writing task
9:00 - Math (Mr. Engelbert teaches all the year 5 students who are advanced at this time)
*I had a meeting with my supervisor to go over my early on evaluation. We went and got a coffee and talked about that and how everything was going!
10:00 - Language
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Language
11:40 - Casey's Lesson that carries over from the day before so they were just working on their information reports on the plants and animals on their island.
12:20 - Lunch
1:00 - Sport
1:55 - Sport
2:35 - Sport
3:15 - Help with pickup, but I got to go home again.

    Today I got up at 6:10, got ready, ate breakfast, and caught the bus at 7:18. I then got to school around 7:50 and started getting ready for the day. I wrote my quote of the day on the board and looked over my lesson. They were just going to carry on researching and writing their informational reports on the plants and animals found on their island, so I didn't have to go over much.
    Next, the day started and Mr. Engelbert had them doing a writing task right away instead of read. This was because we have to do a certain amount of writing each week, and on Thursdays, we don't start classes until 9, so this is the perfect time to add writing in.
    At 9, I went and met with my supervisor (the principal) to have a meeting about how things were going and to go over the early on evaluation he had to do on me earlyish in the term. We went to a little cafe and had a coffee (or a hot chocolate in my case. The coffee here is so bitter so I'm not a huge fan of it, so I get hot chocolate and it is way better!). He said I was doing really well. He also said if I needed help with my resume or a reference when I'm applying for jobs to not hesitate to ask. This was amazing news because not only is he a principal, he is a principal in a completely different country and part of the world so for him to say that really made me feel good and happy that he would go out of his way to help me like that. *All throughout my college classes, people kept saying "it's not what you know, but who you know" and it is so true the more that time goes on.
    After that, I went and sat in on the enrichment lesson for the last 10 minutes and helped where I could.
    Next during language, I went into the lounge and worked on some lessons and work that needed to be done to get ahead. I am the full time teacher next week so I was just organizing my thoughts and getting an idea on what I could do in each lesson.
    After language, we had one period where they worked on their research and informational papers. They have been working really hard so I am super happy about that. Our "teacher vs. class" game is currently scored at class = 4 and teacher = 3, so hopefully they can keep that up to get their Golden Time tomorrow!
    Next, we at lunch early at 12:20 and then got ready to leave for sport at 1:15.
    Mr. Engelbert is in charge of the rock climbing students so I tag along with him. There are about 20 students that we walk to the University of Sydney where they have a rock climbing room. Everything had been explained last week, so this time they were able to get started right away. I was also able to climb today so that was a lot of fun and it made the time go by faster.
    Once we got back to the school, I packed up my back and headed to the bus stop. I had to wait awhile for the bus, and the it was so packed it took almost an hour to get home. I don't know what the deal was, but I didn't get home until about 4:45.
    Once I got home then, I changed and did two workouts from my Nike app that took 45 minutes. I had walked quite a bit and hit my move goal on my watch so I decided not to go for a run today. I also have two blisters on the bottom of my right foot so I want to try and let them heal up because they are quite painful and irritated when I walk a lot on them. One is in between my big toe and second toe and the other one is on the bottom of my 'ring' toe which I think is due to my middle toe rubbing on it. I don't know what caused the other one though. Well enough about my foot now...
    After my workout, I showered and started my blog while I waited for supper. I also wrote down an outline of my plans for next week in my planner.
    Finally, Jeanette called me for supper and it was just her, Takuya, and me because Lewis was out.
    After supper then, we talked for a little while longer. Then I finished my blog, got ready for bed, read for a bit, and went to bed at 9:30.

Tomorrow is Friday and I get to leave early! Yay. 

10-18-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + water
Lunch = salad + a strawberry kiwi smoothie
Supper = fish + green beans + a banana + 2 pieces of dark chocolate + water

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading
8:45 - Assembly
9:25 - Language (Mr. Engelbert does 6th Grade Math Enrichment during this period and the next so I went along to that)
10:00 - Langauge (6th Grade Math Enrichment)
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Math (Rotation 4)
11:40 - Drama
12:20 - Drama carry-over and Casey's Grammar Lesson on using the apostrophe in contractions for the last 20 minutes
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Casey's Topic: Shipwrecked day 5 lesson
2:35 - Carry-over from the period before
3:15 - Home time
*3:30-4:30 Mr. Engelbert helps out with a gymnastic club so I went to that and helped (as best as I could) as well.

    This morning I woke up and made my phone call at 1:30 am, so I got that taken care of which was good.
    I got up then for the day at 6:10 am and got ready, ate breakfast, and left for the bus by 7:05. The bus was running a bit behind so I didn't get on the 423 until 7:24 but I still made it to school by 8 so that was good.
    Once at school, I got ready for the day and talked to Mr. Engelbert a bit about my lessons and such for the day. Then the kids started to come in and we were off.
    Assembly was good and then we started lessons. I didn't have a lot going on today because I had already planned on doing my Grammar lesson yesterday but we ran out of time, and the shipwrecked lesson today was basically what they had been doing yesterday already.
    At lunch, I met with two ladies and we went to a cafe. They wanted to interview me for the school magazine and get the full scoop on what I thought of the school, how I liked Australia, and what my home town was like. This was really fun and I enjoyed myself so much I was almost late to get back to the classroom. The only down fall to this was that I didn't really get a break today. Usually during language and lunch I am able to relax or work on other stuff, but today we had math during language and this interview during lunch, but it made the day fly by so that was good too.
    After lunch then, we went over the answers in the Grammar books that we were working on before lunch and then went straight into researching more about the plants and animals on their islands for topic. This went really well and it was soon time to pack up and dismiss them.
    After school then, we had gymnastics from 3:30-4:30 so I didn't get home until a little after 5!
    Once I got home, I changed and did 2 workouts off my Nike App and then I went for another 6 miles run/walk. It took my 1 hour and 16 minutes today, so about the same time as yesterday so that was good!
    I got back from my run at 7:30, then I showered and ate a light supper. We eat so late so I'm going to try and start having a lighter supper because it isn't good to eat a big meal and then go to bed a short time after.
    After supper then, I wrote my blog entry, got ready for bed and read for a bit. Then I went to bed at 9:30. I'm exhausted!

Today was a long and busy day, but it just flew by so that was good! Happy hump day everyone! :)

 I walk by this tree every morning! It is so pretty. It is kind of hard to tell but it has purple flowers all over it! :)

  This is the Peace Garden I have been talking about. It is right across the hallway from our room and it is really nice. Even though we are on the 2nd floor, we are able to have this little area to go outside if we want/need. It's really cool and I hope to use it more, if possible, during my lessons. 

10-17-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + water
Lunch = salad with tomatoes, cheese, ham, peppers, cucumbers, egg, and honey mustard + rice cakes + water
Supper = steak + salad + steamed veggies + ice cream + lemonade + water

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading
8:45 - Casey's lesson on adaptations and creating a animal
9:25 - Casey's lesson on researching plants and animals on our islands
10:00 - Carry over from the lesson before
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - P.E.
11:40 - Language
12:20 - Langauge
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Math Rotation #3
2:35 - Casey's Grammar lesson on using an apostrophe with contractions
3:15 - Drive by
*After lunch, the guys were installing our new smartboard so we couldn't really be in the classroom. So, we got to go out to the peace garden and do math out there. We then only had about 20 minutes left until the end of the day so instead of doing Grammar we played the game 'Captain's Coming' until it was time to pack up.

    Today I got up a little earlier to make a phone call, which then the person I talked to didn't know the answer to my question and said to all back tomorrow at 9:30 am. This means I have to get up at 1:30 am here, make the phone call, and go back to bed. Oh well. Has to be done so I hope it's worth it. On the plus side I was ahead of schedule in the morning for getting ready so I had a little time to relax before I had to leave for the bus.
    As it turns out, I then left too late and on top of it the bus was a couple minutes early so I didn't catch the 7:18, but luckily the L23 came at 7:25 and I made it to school by 8.
    Once I got to school I got ready for the day and talking to Mr. Engelbert about the day and my lessons. We added a little more detail to my lesson so it would go better.
    At 8:35 students started coming in and at 8:45 I started my lesson. This lesson went for 3 periods and this is the longest I had taught so far. It went really good. I have been struggling with the students talking over me so I started a game today. It's called 'Teacher vs. Student". So if the class is talking and I have to give them 3 warnings, after the 3rd warning it is a point for me. I explained this at 8:50 and I already had a point by 9 am. We ended the day, Miss Harder - 3, the class - 0. This game depends if they get their golden time on Friday, so we will see if they can get points back. They get a point if the whole class is on task and working really hard.
    During recess time, Mr. Engelbert and I sat down to plan next week. Next week I am the full time teacher so I wanted to know what I should teach so I can get a start on it and not have to do it all last minute. Mr. Engelbert said that because I am teaching more now I don't need to do a full lesson plan I just need to do an outline so that'll be helpful.
    After this I worked on my capstone assignments and got caught up for that. Then it was lunch time and an hour left of school so it went by fast.
    After school, I stayed for a bit and corrected some work.
    I caught the 423 bus at 3:50 and got 'home' at 4:30.
    Once I got home, I relaxed until 5 and then I changed and went for a 6 mile run/walk! This only took me 1 hour and 15 minutes so I made pretty good time I think!
    When I got back, and met one of Jeanette's friends and then took a shower.
    We had supper a little earlier tonight (around 7) so that was nice.
    After supper, I caught up on my blog, got ready for bed, read a bit, and went to bed by 9! I have to get up at 1:30 to make a call and I'm really tired so this will be good to get to bed early.

*Tomorrow is hump day! Yay, another week halfway done! :)

10-16-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice peanut butter toast + milk
Lunch = salad with tomatoes, peppers, cheese, ham, egg, and honey mustard + orange and poppyseed muffin + water
Snack = banana after my workout
Supper = BBQ ribs + tried a vegan hot dog (not the best) + rice + salad + steamed veggies + ice cream bar + water

Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading
8:45 - Casey's Topic Lesson (I read chapters 2,3, and 4 to them out of Hatchet. Then we had a little discussion and they answered some comprehension questions in their topic journals.)
9:25 - Continuing my lesson
10:00 - Language
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Language
11:40 Casey's Math Lesson on Capacity (measuring capacity in mL, L, and kL and converting between the 3)
12:20 - Math rotation #3
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Explaining the homework and spelling for the week.
2:35 - Music
3:15 - Music

    Today I woke up, got ready, and ate breakfast and I was actually early to leave for the bus which gave me a little extra time to relax until I had to leave. It was nice!
    Then, I walked to the bus stop and got on the 423 at 7:20.
    I got to school around 7:50 and got ready for the day. I wrote my 'daily quote' on the board and did my journal reflection that I was supposed to hand in on Friday to my supervisor but I completely forgot. Whoops!
    After that, I looked over my lesson quick as the kids started coming in and school started.
    I thought the 3rd day of my topic (shipwrecked) lesson today. I just read 3 chapters to them and they answered some comprehension questions. It was a good lesson and a little more laid back so that was nice, but we still got through a lot of material so it was very productive too.
    During language and recess and worked really hard on my lessons for tomorrow so I could have the afternoon to workout and get ahead on lessons and homework. This worked really well so hopefully each day I can have the focus and drive to work that hard! I also made a phone call to the Homestay Network (the company I went through for my housing) and got my bill/ money taken care of. Because I had gone traveling, I didn't want to be charged for the days I wasn't here so we got that taken care of and she explained what everything on the current ledger meant. She was super helpful and I'm glad it's taken care of now.
    Next, I taught my Math lesson on Capacity. I really enjoy math, but I find it is the hardest subject to teach because the kids either understand it and they don't. So after I explained capacity, gave them examples, and told them what to do for the activity, I then gave the class the option to come up and go over the first couple questions as a group so I could explain it better to them. After a couple questions everyone understood so I was really happy about that! I have never done this before, but I plan to start doing it more because it worked really well.
    After lunch, I explained most of the homework and then the kids worked on their spelling for the little bit of class time we had left. We then packed up and they went to music.
    I was technically done at 2:35 but I stayed around until about 3:40 to correct work and to finish up my lesson plans for tomorrow.
    I then left the school and luckily caught the 423 right away as I got to the bus stop so I didn't even have to wait!
    I got 'home' at 4:20, did a few things, changed, and then started my workout. I did a 30 minute workout off my Nike app and then went for a 3 mile run!
    When I got back I showered and started working on my Teacher Work Sample that I have to do for my Capstone class and then supper was ready.
    For supper, it was just Jeanette and I because Paul had went back to his house, Lewis was out with a friend, and Takuya was out I'm not sure where. It was good to have a nice, quiet supper and talk about our day just the two of us.
    After supper then, I worked some more on my Teacher Work Sample and then wrote this blog entry. I then got ready for bed, read for a bit, and went to bed around 10. I have to get up a bit earlier in the morning to make a call back home. I really like it here but the time difference is hard at times (I am ahead of the people at home by 16 hours!!).
   
*Tomorrow, I teach 4 periods so wish me luck! :)   

10-15-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + orange and poppyseed muffin + milk
Lunch = a lentil burger with ketchup + a banana + water
Snack = banana + a strawberry shake
Supper = chicken + steamed veggies + rice + cheesecake

    Today, I got up at 8:30 to try and get a head start on my day.
    Right away I started laundry, ate breakfast, and then talked to Luke, my grandparents, my family, and a close friend from college. This alone took until around 1pm to finish talking to everyone but I was able to work on some lesson plans and keep at laundry during that time too. It's so hard because during the week I'm either sleeping or at school when I could talk to people, and then they are going to bed by the time I get home so the weekends are my time to talk to them but I also need to do homework then. It's so busy all the time, but that makes the weeks fly by faster which is good.
    After homework and catching up with people, I finally did a workout at 3:15 pm. I got done around 4, quickly showered and ran halfway to the bus stop because I didn't want to be late. Turns out the bus was late so I ran for nothing. Oh well.
    I got on the bus around 4:40 and took it to Marrickville Station where I then took the train to Sydenham. From Sydenham I wen to Bondi Junction and met one of Jeanette's friends (Anne) who I was going to go to church with. I arrived at the station around 5:15, met here and went and got a shake because I was a little hungry and it was a 2 hour service so I didn't want to be starving through it. While I drank my shake, we also met one of her friends who was going to come with us.
    After finding her friend, we then walked 10 minutes up the street to Jubilee which was the church that we were going to.
    This church is a lot like the one we got to in Grand Forks back home but way deeper and intense. It was a great service and experience and I can't wait to go back. Anne is also super nice and inviting. She's going to be like the big sister I always wanted in Sydney. It is really cool as well for her because she is a very godly person and she was an only child so it's a win-win for both of us!!
    After church we caught the train and bus back to Earlwood where we got off. She lives right by the bus stop so I just had a 5 minutes walk home.
    Once I got home I ate supper quick, took a shower, got ready for bed, and updated this journal. It's a late night but it was so worth it. Today was a great day!

Tomorrow starts a new week and I'm ready to see what this one brings! Goodnight everyone :)

 Little parrots or some type of bird on the railing right outside on the balcony! 

   The church I attended. All the people up front are being prayed for and it was just an amazing experience. I'm so thankful I got to attend and have found a good church while I'm here! 

10-14-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + orange and poppyseed muffin + milk + orange juice
Lunch = 2 slices of peanut butter toast + a mini frozen mango bar + water
Supper = ham + salad + steamed veggies + rice + cheesecake and ice cream + lemonade + water

    Today, I woke up at 10:30 (yay I was finally able to sleep in!). I then got up, got dressed, had breakfast and started on my blog from yesterday. I was so tired last night that I didn't feel like doing it so I'm sorry for the delay if anyone was wondering. :)
    At 11:40, my parents called so I talked to them for an hour! I then ate quick and FaceTimed a friend at 1pm for about 50 minutes. It's nice to catch with everyone's busy lives. I have a lot of homework to do but it's important to take breaks and stay connected to friends and family as well.
    After my calls, I then did 50 minutes of yoga as my workout for the day and to relax my brain to get ready for homework.
    Finally after my workout, I started my homework. I read the rest of the book Hatchet that we are reading in class and I'm doing my unit on. It was a really good book and it has a lot of talking points in it so I'm really looking forward to continuing it in class and doing activities that deal with it.
    At a little after 6, Jeanette got home and started on supper. She had been watching her granddaughter today so was gone from about 9-6.
    I took a shower and then read some more while I waited for supper to get ready.
    Lewis wasn't getting back until 8 and Takuya wanted to wait a little bit for supper, so it was just Paul, Jeanette, and I for most of supper. We talked about days and any news that needed to be shared. It's always an interesting but good conversation with Paul there! :)
    After supper, I went back to my room and finished the book. I then mapped out what chapters I will be reading each week (only 8 more weeks left!!) and then started on my blog! I hope to get my capstone assignment done tonight and then work on lessons, do laundry, workout, and hopefully try out a new church tomorrow! Wish me luck! :)

*Hopefully I can get all my lessons done tomorrow so I am ahead for the week. It's so much better and less stressful if you do it that way!

10-13-2017 Friday the 13th!

Meals Today:
Breakfast = Fresh fruit + 1 slice peanut butter toast + yogurt + milk
Lunch = Salad with peppers, cheese, tomatoes, egg, ham, and honey mustard + an orange and poppyseed muffin + orange juice + water
Supper = a MR steak + mashed potatoes + gai lan (which is kind of like lettuce but a little different) + water + lemon ice cream
*Jeanette and I went to Manly beach for supper last night. Because it's daylight savings now she said we will try to go out to eat at a different beach every Friday if possible! The boys had other stuff going on and Paul was working so it was just the two of us!

My Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading 
8:45 - Digital Citizenship
9:25 - Dove Session on body image
10:00 - Carry over of Dove Session
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - My Treasure Hunt that I had prepared. We also had a little bit of time left so Mr. Engelbert showed a math video on capacity
11:40 - Music
12:20 - Music
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Language
2:35 - Language
3:15 - Go Home
*Today I left at noon because as you can see the students go to other classrooms so we were done with them at 11:40 so Mr. Engelbert and I talked about my lessons for next week and then I went home!

    Yay! Today was Friday! Another week done! This was my 5th week so I only have about 8 left!
    Today I woke up, got ready, ate breakfast, walked to the bus and got on the bus at about 7:20. I have been doing a lot better at getting up and sticking with my morning schedule so I'm happy about that. It also helps me have a nice, easy, relaxed morning if I'm not rushed so that's always good.
   Once I got to school I got ready for the day and took my computer down to IT because it wouldn't let me print. I had to use Mr. Engelbert's computer then to print off the clues for my treasure hunt.
    The students then came in and started reading for the first 10 minutes before we got started.
    Then we had the next 3 periods, recess and then it was time for my treasure hunt. I had hidden 9 clues around the room, in the hallway, and in the peace garden for them to find. Each clue I printed off 6 times so each group had to find one. This worked out really well so if one group saw another group find a clue they wouldn't be able to copy them, they had to find it on their own.
    This hunt was really fun and I think the students really enjoyed it. There was a little confusion on a few of the clues and hurt feelings on who won but for the most part it went really well and I can say I've done one now.
    After the hunt and Mr. Engelbert's math video we took the students to music and then we were done for the day. I really enjoy Fridays!
    Once I got home, I ate and worked out. Then I showered and got ready to catch the bus, train, and then ferry to Manly for supper with Jeanette! Today was the first day I rode the train by myself and it went well.
    We ate and then caught the ferry back. The city was beautiful and night and I'm so happy I got to see it.
    When we got back to the city, we got ice cream and then caught the train to Newtown where when then caught a bus.
    We got home around 10. I then got ready for bed and went to sleep. I was exhausted and ready to sleep in! Yay! :)

 Pictures of the city, opera house, and bridge from the ferry as we were coming back from Manly!

10-12-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = 1 slice peanut butter toast + fresh fruit + yogurt + milk
Lunch = salad with honey mustard, peppers, tomatoes, cheese, egg, and ham + banana + beets + water + some chocolate almond 'things'
Supper = salad + steamed veggies + lamb + ice cream with passion fruit + lemonade

My schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading
8:45 - Yr. 5 Maths (These 2 periods are when Mr. Engelbert takes the advanced math students from all the year 5 classes and does a more advanced lesson with them)
9:25 - Yr. 5 Maths
10:00 - Language
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Langauge
11:40 - Writing
12:20 - Lunch
1:00 - Sport
1:55 - Sport
2:35 - Sport
3:15 - Drive by

    Today I got ready, ate breakfast, caught the bus, and went to school just like every other day. The students had sport in the afternoon so it was another 'mofty' day where we could wear more casual, sporty clothes. On these day, we also eat lunch the period before and then head to sport for the remainder of the school day.
    I didn't teach today, so I was just observing and helping out where I could. This was a nice break after teaching so much this week to be able to relax. Also, with sport I went with Mr. Engelbert to Sydney University where we took the 18 students who signed up for rock climbing this semester there! It was really cool and I'm hoping to climb and test it out next week!
    After school, I came home and did a couple workouts on my Nike app and then went for a run. It was so hot today, but the evenings are nice once the sun starts to go down and it isn't beating straight down.
    When I got back home then, I showered and then it was time for supper. Paul was back so it was nice to talk to him about his week and working.
    After supper, I started the movie Belle and watched until 10 when I had a video conference with my advisor from U of M, Morris. The chat lasted about 10 minutes so I went back and finished the movie.
    Once the movie was done, I got ready for bed and went to sleep. Tomorrow is my last day of waking up at 6 for the week! Yay! :)
     I'm hoping to explore some of Sydney this weekend if the weather is good!

10-11-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = 1 slice of peanut butter toast + fresh veggies + yogurt + orange juice
Lunch = a big salad with peppers, egg, tomatoes, cheese, and honey mustard + beets + banana + orange + water
Supper = chicken + salad + steamed veggies + water + cheesecake

My Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading
8:45 - Goal Setting
9:25 - Language (During this time, Mr. Engelbert and I went to a cafe shop and worked on planning when and what I was going to teach for the next couple of weeks so that was good and I feel a lot more organized now!)
10:00 - Language
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - Maths
11:40 - Maths
12:20 - Drama
1:00 - Lunch
1:55 - Casey's Lesson: Second day of topic (Shipwrecked unit)
2:35 - Carrying on of Casey's lesson
3:15 - Gym Club

    Today, I got up at 6:20 thinking "I have my clothes picked out, I don't need to get up quite as early". This was wrong. I still need to get up at the same time no matter water because I felt rushed this morning.
     After I got ready and ate breakfast, I walked to the bust stop and caught the 423 at 7:20. I then rode to the school stop and got off at 7:50 (the bus rides have been taking really long lately and I'm not sure why).
    Next, I got ready for the day and helped Mr. Engelbert do the same.
    We then started the day, and I mostly observed until my lesson in the afternoon.
    I thought my lesson went alright, but I definitely like teaching in the morning better because in the afternoon they are tired and just want the day to be over. But, it has to be done and I learned a lot from it.
    After school, we had a meeting that was mostly about safety and keeping the kids safe at all times in the school. This meeting went from 4-5. Then, I finally got out of there and caught the bus at 5:15ish.
    I then got home around 6, changed and did a workout off my nike app that lasted 30 minutes. After that, I put my shoes on and went for a 3 mile run! It was good! :)
    I got home and showered and then it was time for supper.
    We finished supper at 8:30 and then I wrote my blog for the day, got ready for bed and went to bed at 9ish. I'm exhausted!

*Today marks a month of me being in Australia. I can't believe how fast it's gone and I know this term will go really fast as well!
I'm excited to get done and go home for Christmas :)

 Selfie! Because I only have 2 months left!

A cupcake I got from a student next door for his birthday! :)

10-10-2017

Meals Today:
Breakfast = fresh fruit + yogurt + 1 slice of peanut butter toast + water
Lunch = salad with an egg, tomatoes, peppers, cheese, ham, and honey mustard dressing + beets + 1 sugar banana + 1 cutie + 2 macaroons + water
Supper = salad + steak bits + rice + steamed veggies + lemonade + water + cheesecake with ice cream

Todays Schedule:
8:35 - Roll Call (I got to do this today!)
8:45 - Casey's first shipwrecked unit lesson
9:25 - Carry on of my lesson
10:00 - Maths
10:40 - Recess
11:00 - P.E.
11:40 - Language (Mr. Engelbert and I went to a kindergarten classroom to do mindfulness with them)
12:20 - Language
1:00 - Lunch (Mr. Engelbert and I went to the gym to run the 'crazy kids' bootcamp)
1:55 - Drama (I met with Mr. Hamper, my supervisor, to discuss his observations and my lesson)
2:35 - Dram/ Pack up
3:15 - Help with pickup (I got to go home since I don't know the kids and who their parents are)

    Today I got up at 6:15 am and I changed outfits 3 times because it was supposed to be a bit cooler today so I didn't know what to wear. I finally got ready and had breakfast at 6:50, quickly packed up my stuff and left for the bus stop.
    I got to the bust stop and got on the bus at 7:20. It takes a bit to get to the school stop and I finally arrived at 7:45 and made it to the school at 7:50. I then checked in at the office and put my lunch in the fridge in the lounge.
    Next, I got to our classroom and started getting things ready for my lesson. I wanted everything to be perfect because my supervisor was coming in to observe my lesson today!
    The kids all came in at 8:35. I had them grab their stuff off the table and get into their groups on the floor. I then took attendance and let them silent ready/ draw for the next 5 minutes before period 1 was supposed to start.
    At 8: 45 we finally started the lesson and I started with some questions about the book we will be/ started reading, Hatchet. Then I read the first chapter, they answered a few more questions, then we got into the lesson and discussed that this whole term the topic will be 'Shipwrecked' so we went into more discussion about that. Overall I think it was a really good lesson and it went well. I'm excited to teach this unit and see how it plays out as the term goes on!
    The rest of the day was normal and I left the school around 3:30.
    I got to the bus stop and waited for about 20 minutes! Then the bus was so slow and there were some interesting people on the bus that I was getting so annoyed. The bus also took an hour so I didn't get home until 4:40 which it usually doesn't take that long so it just added to me being annoyed and tired.
    When I finally got home, I had a little snack (apple slices and peanut butter) and then started working on my lesson plan for tomorrow. I also looked at the interest surveys the kids took yesterday, and started writing my blog for today.
    At about 7:30 Jeanette called us for supper and we ate and got done around 8:45. We usually eat and then talk for awhile after about our days and to fill everyone in on the 'news'.
    After supper, I finished writing this blog, got ready for bed and went to bed around 9:30 pm. I was exhausted.

Ready for another full, busy day tomorrow! :) 

10-9-2017

Meals Today:

Breakfast = yogurt + fresh fruit + hard boiled egg + 1 slice of peanut butter toast + milk 

Lunch = salad with peppers, tomatoes, ham, and honey mustard dressing + beets + a macaroon + water

Supper = lemonade + salad + steamed veggies + rice + beef stir fry 

My Schedule at school today:

8:35 - Roll Call/ Silent Reading

8:45 - Casey's lesson: Rules and Expectations, Interest Survey, and Hearing About Their Breaks

9:25 - Casey's lesson: Introduction to Shipwrecked Unit (Ended up still talking about their breaks so we will start this tomorrow!)

10:00 - Language

10:40 - Recess

11:00 - Language 

11:40 - Maths

12:20 - Writing

1:00 - Lunch

1:55 - Spelling / Pack up

2:34 - Music 

3:15 - Music 

    Today, I woke up at 6 because now that I'm teaching more Mr. Engelbert wants me to be there at 8 am. So I got up and got ready for the day. I was all ready and had eaten breakfast and everything by 7 so I was proud of myself! Next, I walked to the bus stop and caught the L23 to the stop by the school.

   I taught the first 2 periods today and I think they went really well. We got to share about our breaks which took a lot longer than I thought it would so the 2nd lesson I had prepared for today I'll do tomorrow. Mr. Hamper (my supervisor) is also coming in tomorrow for my first evaluation. He has to do 3 of these throughout the term so I hope my lesson goes well. 

   During language and recess, I used that time to work on my lesson and catch up more on my blog. I'm all caught up now! Yay! :)

    Then for the rest of the day I just observed until the kids went to music. I then talked with Mr. Engelbert about my lessons tomorrow and we rearranged the room so that the kids would be in their correct groups and so that I would have easier access to the whiteboard and the smartboard. 

*Sidenote: today when I came to school we had no smartboard and we had no power! We were in the process of getting a new smartboard and then there was some complications and some misunderstandings so hopefully the new one will be installed soon. Luckily the power came on around 9:30 so that was a plus!

    After school then, I got the 412 bus and got home at 4:45. It had been a long day. 

    Once I got home, I put away my laundry and caught up the rest of the way on my blogs. 

   I then went for a 5 mile run/walk at 6:30 so I got back around 7:30. I then showered quick and got mostly ready for bed. We then had supper, I showed Jeanette and everyone my pictures from my trip, read a chapter out of my book, and went to bed around 9 pm. I was exhausted!

*On my run I saw a beautiful double rainbow but I didn't have my phone to take a picture of it :( It was really pretty though.   

10-8-2017

My Day:
- I was finally able to sleep in, but I had a lot to do so I got up at 9 am.
- I got ready and started laundry right away.
- Then I had yogurt, fresh fruit, orange juice, and peanut butter toast for breakfast.
- Then I started right away on my homework.
- At 12:30, I had a salad and some fruit for lunch.
- At about 1, I talked to my family for about an hour
- Then it was back to homework and I worked on that until 5 and then I went on a 4 mile run through the ran (light sprinkle). It hasn't rained in 2 months here so it's nice that we are finally getting some. I run right next to a river and it's so dry you can see the bottom quite a ways in from the shore line.
- I got back around 6 and showered and did a little more homework before supper.
- For supper I had spicy salmon, salad, rice, lemonade, steamed veggies, and cheesecake
- After supper, I did a little more homework and then got ready for bed.
- I went to bed at 9:30.

10-7-2017

My Day:

- I got up at 9:30 and checked out at 10.

- I got ready for the day (we had to check out of the room, but we could still use the showers and everything there).

- Next, I ate some left over sushi from the day before.

- I decided then to head over to the art gallery, but it was raining so I stopped in the little cafe and had a carrot cake and a (not very good) cappuccino. In America all the coffees and hot drinks are so sweet so coming here it's very bitter and I find it not very good except the hot chocolate. 

- I met a lady at the cafe who was from Christchurch so we talked about the city and how it is being rebuilt due to the earthquake in 2011.

- Then I walked around the art gallery and square for a bit until it was time to go get my things and head to the bus stop.

- I got my stuff and got to the bus stop just in time for the bus, but turns out you have to pay cash to the driver which I didn't have. I then didn't want to use the ATM so I found a money exchange place and was able to change my $12 American into $16 New Zealand which was nice. 

- I then caught a bus and made my way to the airport.  

- Once I got to the airport, I checked in and went through security. I then found the correct gate and went and had a glass of wine with a salmon and cream cheese bagel while I waited for my flight. 

- We started boarding at 4:45 pm.

- Then, due to the time change, we arrived in Sydney at 6:30 pm, I went through customs and everything and then Jeanette met me there to help me get home on the bus. 

- We stopped and ate at Nico's on the way home (the boys met us there) and then we took the bus back.

- I was exhausted so I took a shower and basically went straight to bed once we got back. 

- I was in bed by 9:30 pm

The 'square' where all the art galleries were located. This was right across the street from the YHA.   

10-6-2017

My Day:
-I got up at 10 am
- I got ready and went for a 4 mile run at 10:30 through the gardens and by the river that surround the museum.
- I got back at 11:30 and showered and got ready for the day
- Next, I left at 12:30 to go find something to eat and go shopping
- I had some sushi around 5
- Then I walked back to the YHA and packed my bag up so I was ready to check out by 10 the next morning.
- I was on my phone then and half watched the movie that was on in the common area.
- I went to bed around 9:30

I got a wrap and a coke for lunch. 

I really liked these shoes, but they were way too expensive :( 

10-5-2017

My Day:
- I finally got up around 11:30 am and went for a 2 mile run.
- I showered and got ready for the day.
- I facetimed and then left to go to the museum and cafe at 2
- I went through the museum which was all about the history of New Zealand which was interesting.
- Next, I had a salmon and cream cheese bagel and a raspberry milkshake!
- Next, I walked down to some shops and around the shopping area until 6:30
- Then I walked back and had the rest of my burger from the night before for supper.
- I got ready for bed at 9 and went to bed at 9:30

 There was a 'house' in the museum that was filled with shells. This was one of the walls. 

This was a huge doll house in the museum.  

This was the Bridge of Remembrance that I crossed to go to the shopping area. I'm not quite sure why it was there, but I thought it was cool.