Well, I thought I ought to post about what I've been up to even though it will be a little sad. On Wednesday, December 9 I received news that my grandmother had passed away. I was more than a little upset and feeling pretty guilty about living across the country. So, I spent an eventful few days trying to get back to Ohio.
It turns out that changing your airline ticket is not very easy. It started with the bush plane. I made a reservation with Grant Aviation for their late afternoon flight (around 5:30). The plane finally landed at 6:15 or so. When it did land, I noticed that it was full, of course that's only 5 people. The pilot apologized, but couldn't really do anything. In the meantime, I made arrangements with a second airline (Yute Air) to pick me up. So, everyone left, and Portia and I sat there and waited. Then, my phone rang. It was Yute telling me they were done flying. I begged the agent to send someone because I was trying to go home for a funeral. He said he'd try. So, I called Grant Aviation back and had a little conversation. It went something like this:
Me: I had a reservation, and when the plane landed it was full. I need to get to Bethel.
Grant: We're sorry ma'am. We fly again at 8:00 tomorrow.
Me: Now you listen. I use this airline because you're reliable. I'm trying to get home for a funeral. Now, the time I need you, you're not reliable. I'm a teacher. Do you think I won't tell people what happened! I need to get to Bethel! My flight leaves at 8:40 PM.
Grant: I'm sorry, ma'am. When the pilot lands, we'll send him right back to get you.
Me: Good! I'll be waiting.
As soon as I hang up, a plane from Yute Air lands. I debated for about 30 seconds and hopped on. I noticed the interior was held together by duct tape, but decided not to worry. I called Grant back and explained. They were less than happy. Oh well.
So, I made it safely to Bethel. My friend Segue met me and brought me dinner. It was so nice of her to bring me food. I got on a flight to Anchorage without incident (thankfully).
When I checked in at Anchorage I learned that my flight was delayed 35 minutes. Unfortunately, my layover in Phoenix was only 35 minutes long. So, I would miss my flight to Pittsburgh. At this point, I was near desperate. I told the airline clerk that I was trying to make it home for a funeral. Could they send me to another airport? Finally, they worked me onto a flight to Columbus. Honestly, that worked out the best because my grandmother was living near Columbus.
So, I arrived at Columbus's airport and was picked up by my father. First order of business, fast food. Who knew how much I would miss it? I'll post later about what it's like being home after 4 1/2 months.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
What a month!
Sorry it's been so long! I received an e-mail "reminding" me that it has been a month since I last posted. It has been quite a month, that is for sure.
I have proof that I have been accepted by my community. One of my students offered to get me and some co-workers a caribou. Keep in mind that the caribou come very close to Eek. In fact, my predecessor saw some from his/my classroom window. So, as any good Alaskan will do, he took the rest of the day off, strapped on cross country skis, went out, and got one. He then strapped the caribou to the skis and walked back to town. The students are fairly certain I won't do that.
A few days later, there was a knock at my door. I go out into the (literally) -25 weather to see a caribou head on my porch. That's right, just the head. I heard a few snickers and saw my student "Billy" (who we now call the Arctic Godfather) come around the corner of my house with his snow machine. In the sled he was pulling was the rest of the caribou. It was field dressed and ready to be cut. So, we carried it into my Arctic Porch for storage.
The next morning, I was talking to one of the other teachers about what we would do. He had never cut up an animal like this, and I had all the experience with doing it one other time. So, I told him the basic premise: skin, cut, and cut some more. Then, I informed him to bring some good knives and wear clothes he didn't mind getting bloody. As I said this, one of our students walked around the corner looking amused and a bit horrified.
That night, the other teachers came over to cut it. We brought it into my kitchen and started to work. We quickly discovered that when it's -25 out and you put a caribou in a room with no heat, it freezes. So, we couldn't do anything that night. We then moved all four quarters, ribs, and neck into my laundry room to let it thaw overnight. Finally, the next morning, we got to work. Eventually, we got the whole thing cut, cleaned, and divided up.
There are some great pictures floating around of this fiasco. I have none since my camera was stolen. But, I will post them as soon as I can!
I will post more later about my Thanksgiving in Anchorage. But, until then (which I promise will be less than a month!), goodbye from Eek!
I have proof that I have been accepted by my community. One of my students offered to get me and some co-workers a caribou. Keep in mind that the caribou come very close to Eek. In fact, my predecessor saw some from his/my classroom window. So, as any good Alaskan will do, he took the rest of the day off, strapped on cross country skis, went out, and got one. He then strapped the caribou to the skis and walked back to town. The students are fairly certain I won't do that.
A few days later, there was a knock at my door. I go out into the (literally) -25 weather to see a caribou head on my porch. That's right, just the head. I heard a few snickers and saw my student "Billy" (who we now call the Arctic Godfather) come around the corner of my house with his snow machine. In the sled he was pulling was the rest of the caribou. It was field dressed and ready to be cut. So, we carried it into my Arctic Porch for storage.
The next morning, I was talking to one of the other teachers about what we would do. He had never cut up an animal like this, and I had all the experience with doing it one other time. So, I told him the basic premise: skin, cut, and cut some more. Then, I informed him to bring some good knives and wear clothes he didn't mind getting bloody. As I said this, one of our students walked around the corner looking amused and a bit horrified.
That night, the other teachers came over to cut it. We brought it into my kitchen and started to work. We quickly discovered that when it's -25 out and you put a caribou in a room with no heat, it freezes. So, we couldn't do anything that night. We then moved all four quarters, ribs, and neck into my laundry room to let it thaw overnight. Finally, the next morning, we got to work. Eventually, we got the whole thing cut, cleaned, and divided up.
There are some great pictures floating around of this fiasco. I have none since my camera was stolen. But, I will post them as soon as I can!
I will post more later about my Thanksgiving in Anchorage. But, until then (which I promise will be less than a month!), goodbye from Eek!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
I'm an English teacher and . . .
One thing I've learned here is that, yes, I am an English teacher, and I'm a speech coach and an NYO chaperone, and an art teacher. You may remember that I went to an art retreat a week or so ago. I'm off to another this coming weekend. This time it's about digital storytelling. I'm also taking Portia to the vet. So, we'll see how that goes.
Last week, I went to Bethel with two middle school students for a speech competition. My two students each had memorized a poem and had to perform it in front of judges and other students. Although neither of my students won any awards, they had fun and did a great job. I was so proud of them! However, I was not happy about sleeping two nights on the floor of a classroom. I learned why many bush teachers invest in a good air mattress. One will probably be on my Christmas list (hint, hint, Mom!). The worst part of the weekend was when we woke up Thursday and were greeted by snow flurries. It didn't bother me too much until the airlines called and said we were all "weathered in". Basically, the weather was too bad for any planes to leave.
So, picture this, 75 or so middle schoolers and teachers stuck in our district office all day because there was nowhere we could go. Every hour or so another school would leave. Unfortunately, Eek was never called. I was told that we would have to stay another night. This made me very unhappy, and the students weren't any happier, but the worst part was that my male student had to have a male chaperone, which we didn't have. I was stuck trying to find a relative to take him in for the night. No luck. By the end of the day, everyone left or was leaving, except us. I had just accepted the fact when, as luck would have it, the airline called and we could leave! Whew! It was probably the scariest plane ride I've ever been on, but we made it.
If that wasn't enough travel for me, this weekend I went to Napaskiak (another small village) to chaperone an NYO (Native Youth Olympics) meet. It was fun, and I learned a lot! NYO is a set of competitions that test strength, agility, and flexibility. There were ten competitions. I'll go through a few of them.
1. The One Arm Reach- Students must lie on their stomach, put one hand underneath their body (around their navel), and life themselves up with all three other limbs off the floor. They must then reach up with their that is not holding themselves up and hit a ball that is about 2 feet off the floor. They continue to raise the ball. If you miss it, you're out. They continue this until a winner is determined.
2. Indian Stick Pull- Students face one opponent at a time. The competitors face opposite directions shoulder to shoulder. Between them, they hold a stick covered in Crisco. When the judge says, "Go," they pull on the stick keeping their shoulders straight until one person pulls it out of the other person's hand.
3. Seal Hop- This is the worst event! Students must lay face down on the floor. Then, they put their hands, knuckles down, in line with their shoulders. Competitors use the force of their body to propel themselves across the floor. They have to keep their feet together and "hop" down the gym floor.
There are several more competitions, but I'll save those for another day!
Last week, I went to Bethel with two middle school students for a speech competition. My two students each had memorized a poem and had to perform it in front of judges and other students. Although neither of my students won any awards, they had fun and did a great job. I was so proud of them! However, I was not happy about sleeping two nights on the floor of a classroom. I learned why many bush teachers invest in a good air mattress. One will probably be on my Christmas list (hint, hint, Mom!). The worst part of the weekend was when we woke up Thursday and were greeted by snow flurries. It didn't bother me too much until the airlines called and said we were all "weathered in". Basically, the weather was too bad for any planes to leave.
So, picture this, 75 or so middle schoolers and teachers stuck in our district office all day because there was nowhere we could go. Every hour or so another school would leave. Unfortunately, Eek was never called. I was told that we would have to stay another night. This made me very unhappy, and the students weren't any happier, but the worst part was that my male student had to have a male chaperone, which we didn't have. I was stuck trying to find a relative to take him in for the night. No luck. By the end of the day, everyone left or was leaving, except us. I had just accepted the fact when, as luck would have it, the airline called and we could leave! Whew! It was probably the scariest plane ride I've ever been on, but we made it.
If that wasn't enough travel for me, this weekend I went to Napaskiak (another small village) to chaperone an NYO (Native Youth Olympics) meet. It was fun, and I learned a lot! NYO is a set of competitions that test strength, agility, and flexibility. There were ten competitions. I'll go through a few of them.
1. The One Arm Reach- Students must lie on their stomach, put one hand underneath their body (around their navel), and life themselves up with all three other limbs off the floor. They must then reach up with their that is not holding themselves up and hit a ball that is about 2 feet off the floor. They continue to raise the ball. If you miss it, you're out. They continue this until a winner is determined.
2. Indian Stick Pull- Students face one opponent at a time. The competitors face opposite directions shoulder to shoulder. Between them, they hold a stick covered in Crisco. When the judge says, "Go," they pull on the stick keeping their shoulders straight until one person pulls it out of the other person's hand.
3. Seal Hop- This is the worst event! Students must lay face down on the floor. Then, they put their hands, knuckles down, in line with their shoulders. Competitors use the force of their body to propel themselves across the floor. They have to keep their feet together and "hop" down the gym floor.
There are several more competitions, but I'll save those for another day!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Big City
This weekend Dirk, a fellow teacher, and I went to the big city of Bethel. We were headed to an art retreat. Now, for those of you that know me that might seem strange because I'm not much of an artist yet. That was the phrase we heard. We need to tell our students that they're not artists yet. We learned all sorts of educational tools to use art in science. Dirk and I agreed that it was great and very useful.
Bethel is a strange city in that it's really spread out. There are several clusters of houses and businesses connected by roads. The town is pretty walkable. However, that doesn't stop people from driving everywhere. Interestingly, Bethel, Alaska, has the second highest number of cabs per capita in the U.S. second only to New York City. It's also home to the famous "Bethel cab ride". You might hail a cab only to jump in with two people already in the car. The drivers can make more money by picking up more passengers along the way. So, you hop in and the next destination that comes up is where the driver stops. It's $5 anywhere in town except the airport; that's $7.
The trip was fun. In fact, Dirk and I went to have sushi Thursday night. We left the restaurant deep into conversation and hopped into the first car that pulled up. The driver looked at us and I said, "Longhouse Hotel, please." Dirk stated his destination and we got back to talking. I noticed in all this that I was stepping on stuff on the floor. Finally, the driver says, "This is not a cab. I'm the delivery guy for the restaurant. But, I'll take you wherever you need to go." We laughed, turned around, saw the real cab and hopped in it! Too funny!
I hung out with some more friends Friday night. The best part was the pizza. I picked it up for everyone since I was staying near the pizza place. We ordered two medium pizzas and an order of cheesesticks for-- $70!!!! That's a little pricey even for Alaska.
All in all it was a great weekend. I leave for Bethel again on Tuesday to take 4 students to compete in a speech competition. We'll see how this goes. . .
Bethel is a strange city in that it's really spread out. There are several clusters of houses and businesses connected by roads. The town is pretty walkable. However, that doesn't stop people from driving everywhere. Interestingly, Bethel, Alaska, has the second highest number of cabs per capita in the U.S. second only to New York City. It's also home to the famous "Bethel cab ride". You might hail a cab only to jump in with two people already in the car. The drivers can make more money by picking up more passengers along the way. So, you hop in and the next destination that comes up is where the driver stops. It's $5 anywhere in town except the airport; that's $7.
The trip was fun. In fact, Dirk and I went to have sushi Thursday night. We left the restaurant deep into conversation and hopped into the first car that pulled up. The driver looked at us and I said, "Longhouse Hotel, please." Dirk stated his destination and we got back to talking. I noticed in all this that I was stepping on stuff on the floor. Finally, the driver says, "This is not a cab. I'm the delivery guy for the restaurant. But, I'll take you wherever you need to go." We laughed, turned around, saw the real cab and hopped in it! Too funny!
I hung out with some more friends Friday night. The best part was the pizza. I picked it up for everyone since I was staying near the pizza place. We ordered two medium pizzas and an order of cheesesticks for-- $70!!!! That's a little pricey even for Alaska.
All in all it was a great weekend. I leave for Bethel again on Tuesday to take 4 students to compete in a speech competition. We'll see how this goes. . .
Monday, October 5, 2009
The belly rules the mind. ~Spanish Proverb
This week is my first foray into the world of bush grocery shopping. I have two food orders coming this week on top of my usual produce delivery. One thing my mom and others are most interested in is the cost of food here. Let me give a few examples:
1. On my first week in Alaska my friend Segue and I decided to split a 12-pack of Diet Coke. We went to AC (Alaskan for Wal-Mart) and bought one-- for $12.50.
2. When I first came to the village, I went to the store to show my face and goodwill. I bought two candles, a 12-pack of Ruby Red Squirt and a pack of cookies for a grand total of $41.00!
Because of this, I no longer drink soda. It's all water all the time for me, but distilled only. . .
I mainly get groceries in three ways. First, is Full Circle Farm. This is an organic farm in Washington that ships boxes of produce out on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. I pay $46 to get a small box every two weeks. Usually I get 4 different kinds of fruit with 3-4 pieces of each, and 6-7 vegetables. I probably eat more produce here than I did in Ohio. Frankly, it's not too much more expensive that it would be in Ohio, and everything is fresh and organic. The farm boxes up the produce and puts it on a plane. I'm supposed to get the box every Tuesday, but the time varies. Basically, it comes on a plane at some point in the day. It could be morning, afternoon, or 9:00 at night.
I received my first Fred Meyer order this week. I paid $380 for 4 boxes of groceries. In Ohio, I would probably pay $200 for the amount of food I got. I had to buy all dry goods because any chilled or frozen food costs about twice as much to ship.
Finally, some other teachers and I went together to get an organic meat order. I paid $140 for 24 pieces of chicken breast and 10 pounds of hamburger. Once again, all this comes on a plane with a pilot that doesn't actually care if your pretzel rods are broken.
Obviously, food is difficult to get and expensive here in Alaska. But, overall, I think I'm breaking close to even on food spending since I am not eating out nearly as much!
I hope you enjoyed the insight into Alaskan food. It was tough to top the moose carving!
1. On my first week in Alaska my friend Segue and I decided to split a 12-pack of Diet Coke. We went to AC (Alaskan for Wal-Mart) and bought one-- for $12.50.
2. When I first came to the village, I went to the store to show my face and goodwill. I bought two candles, a 12-pack of Ruby Red Squirt and a pack of cookies for a grand total of $41.00!
Because of this, I no longer drink soda. It's all water all the time for me, but distilled only. . .
I mainly get groceries in three ways. First, is Full Circle Farm. This is an organic farm in Washington that ships boxes of produce out on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. I pay $46 to get a small box every two weeks. Usually I get 4 different kinds of fruit with 3-4 pieces of each, and 6-7 vegetables. I probably eat more produce here than I did in Ohio. Frankly, it's not too much more expensive that it would be in Ohio, and everything is fresh and organic. The farm boxes up the produce and puts it on a plane. I'm supposed to get the box every Tuesday, but the time varies. Basically, it comes on a plane at some point in the day. It could be morning, afternoon, or 9:00 at night.
I received my first Fred Meyer order this week. I paid $380 for 4 boxes of groceries. In Ohio, I would probably pay $200 for the amount of food I got. I had to buy all dry goods because any chilled or frozen food costs about twice as much to ship.
Finally, some other teachers and I went together to get an organic meat order. I paid $140 for 24 pieces of chicken breast and 10 pounds of hamburger. Once again, all this comes on a plane with a pilot that doesn't actually care if your pretzel rods are broken.
Obviously, food is difficult to get and expensive here in Alaska. But, overall, I think I'm breaking close to even on food spending since I am not eating out nearly as much!
I hope you enjoyed the insight into Alaskan food. It was tough to top the moose carving!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
MOOSE!!!
Friday started off as any normal day. However, it ended in a way I will never forget. Loni called me and asked if I was doing anything. I thought this was a joke, because, well, I like in Eek! Was I going to go see a movie? Anyway, she explained that her brother-in-law had gotten a moose and gave her family a quarter. She wanted to know if I wanted to come help with it. Of course, I was all over that!
Later that evening, I went over and helped Loni cut up her moose. I didn't actually know I was helping her until I got there. That will explain the clothes I wore. Loni's husband Micah took pictures so everyone could experience this along with me!
We cut up the moose on the kitchen floor over a tarp and some cardboard. We started by removing the hide and the top membrane. Then, we just hacked the meat off the bone. Luckily, for me, there is no special way to cut it!
This is a picture of the moose quarter and some of the ribs. Loni cut the ribs with a saw, and said they would prepare them just like any other ribs. BBQ?
Loni is holding out the tools we used to cut the moose. These are traditional women's knives. I used the smaller one.
This is me really getting into it and carving it up!
This is a picture of Loni and I cleaning the meat. After, we had finished cutting the meat from the bone we had to pick off all the hair. We wet our fingers in order to grab the hair better.
At the end of the evening I was sore, but happy. Although I'm glad I don't have to do this to all my food it was a great experience. I now have a lot more respect for the women in this village who do this all the time! Loni and I only had a quarter cut up and it took us 2 hours! Imagine a whole moose!
I left with a bag of meat for my freezer, and I have to admit I'm looking forward to preparing it!
Later that evening, I went over and helped Loni cut up her moose. I didn't actually know I was helping her until I got there. That will explain the clothes I wore. Loni's husband Micah took pictures so everyone could experience this along with me!
We cut up the moose on the kitchen floor over a tarp and some cardboard. We started by removing the hide and the top membrane. Then, we just hacked the meat off the bone. Luckily, for me, there is no special way to cut it!
This is a picture of the moose quarter and some of the ribs. Loni cut the ribs with a saw, and said they would prepare them just like any other ribs. BBQ?
Loni is holding out the tools we used to cut the moose. These are traditional women's knives. I used the smaller one.
This is me really getting into it and carving it up!
This is a picture of Loni and I cleaning the meat. After, we had finished cutting the meat from the bone we had to pick off all the hair. We wet our fingers in order to grab the hair better.At the end of the evening I was sore, but happy. Although I'm glad I don't have to do this to all my food it was a great experience. I now have a lot more respect for the women in this village who do this all the time! Loni and I only had a quarter cut up and it took us 2 hours! Imagine a whole moose!
I left with a bag of meat for my freezer, and I have to admit I'm looking forward to preparing it!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
The town of Eek!
I've been living here for a little over a month, and I decided it was time to post some pictures of my new town. My friend Loni (a fellow teacher) took me and showed me some of the sights, such as they are!
This is a picture of Loni's house. This is what many of the houses look like here. Many houses are painted a bright color like this one. I'm not really sure why.
This is the steam house outside of Loni's house. Most the houses in Eek do not have running water. Therefore, most residents are unable to shower on a regular basis. So, they take steams. It's like a sauna, but a LOT hotter!! For instance, Loni told me a friend of hers had set up a steam and the thermometer said it was 330 degrees. The steam was that hot. Of course, they did not go in because it was too hot.
Three of the pictures are the inside of the steam house. Generally, there are not tools lying about, but Loni's husband is working on it. The black stove just above is the heat source. To get the steam you place rocks on the stove and then pour water over them. The picture with all the wood is a pile of steam wood. It's kept on end so it doesn't get covered in snow.
This is a picture of Loni's house. This is what many of the houses look like here. Many houses are painted a bright color like this one. I'm not really sure why.The following pictures are sites of Eek.
This is a picture of me in front of the most happening place on a Saturday night- the Bingo hall.
This is the city building where they take care of city business. For instance, if there is a death in the family, the village will help offset the cost of the plane ticket and pay for the coffin.
This is the end of the road. That's what it's called. If you ask someone where they were they might answer, "At the end of the road." Before the newer houses were built there was one road from the airport to the river, and this was it.
This is the graveyard here in town. The second picture is of a newer grave. When someone is buried the kids in town are responsible for decorating the grave and making it look nice.
This is the post office here in town.
This is the native store. It's called Iqfijouaq. They sell all the supplies in town and take care of other things. This is also where I pay for my cable.
That's it! That's the town! The last picture is an aerial view of the town.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Landmarks
A few landmarks have occurred this weekend. First, I'm officially a certified teacher in Alaska. It has been quite the process! Keep in mind I hold a professional certificate in Ohio, I've been teaching 5 years, and I have a master's degree in education. How hard could it be to get certified here? Well, in early April I decided to find out. I sent in my application packet which included a long, notarized application, ink fingerprint cards (2 of them), an original copy of my Ohio certificate, a letter from Ohio Wesleyan stating that I did in fact complete student teaching, official transcripts from Kent State, Ohio Wesleyan, and Bowling Green, and the promise to hand over my first born child. Ok, maybe the last part isn't true, but the rest is. But, yesterday in the mail I received my Initial Teaching Certificate. It's good for at least 3 years assuming I take the required classes.
Second, I have been in Alaska for exactly one month! It's been great and I'm looking forward to the next nine (except maybe the -60 part).
Thirdly, I have been declared the Phase 10 queen of Eek!
Finally, I have become quite adept at berry picking! Berry picking is a common past time here in Alaska. Mostly women do the picking. There are several types: salmonberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries. People pick them and freeze them for use in many recipes, like Eskimo Ice Cream! I've been picking three times. The first time was after a boat ride on the Kuskokwim at new teacher training. That time I didn't actually keep any, I ate them along the way.
I have some pictures from my second berry picking episode.
First, salmonberries. They taste nothing like salmon. I assume they're called this because of the color.
There are also blueberries that grow like crazy here!
Also, there are blackberries here. They are nothing like the blackberries in the Lower 48, but they're still really good.
Second, I have been in Alaska for exactly one month! It's been great and I'm looking forward to the next nine (except maybe the -60 part).
Thirdly, I have been declared the Phase 10 queen of Eek!
Finally, I have become quite adept at berry picking! Berry picking is a common past time here in Alaska. Mostly women do the picking. There are several types: salmonberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries. People pick them and freeze them for use in many recipes, like Eskimo Ice Cream! I've been picking three times. The first time was after a boat ride on the Kuskokwim at new teacher training. That time I didn't actually keep any, I ate them along the way.
I have some pictures from my second berry picking episode.
First, salmonberries. They taste nothing like salmon. I assume they're called this because of the color.
There are also blueberries that grow like crazy here!
Also, there are blackberries here. They are nothing like the blackberries in the Lower 48, but they're still really good.Finally, for all you math oriented people out there. I put a penny next to them to give you a size comparison.
I did pretty well that day! I put them on a cookie sheet to freeze them and use them later.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
School is Officially in Session
I'm writing this as I have completed two full days of teaching in Alaska! Lots of people have been asking me how it went, how it's different and just in general what it's like. Well, let me explain a little.
In some ways things are exactly the same. I've had a kid fall asleep in my class already because he was up until 3 AM. Students here socialize with friends during class just like they did in Ohio. Many classroom management issues are the same (Yes, you have to sit in a seat. No, you can't tip back in your chair. I'm sorry, flicking quarters is not appropriate behavior). Also, most students want to share their story with you. I have students who work on a commercial fishing boat in the summer "pitching fish". I think it's mainly grunt work, but they have to start there to be promoted.
But, in some ways, school is completly different! First, let me explain about Alaska time. Everything here is far more laid back than in the Lower 48. If something is supposed to start at 8, it might not start until 8:30 and nobody thinks anything of it. School is somewhat the same way. At TMS, students have 3 minutes between classes. If you were in gym class and had to go across the building to science, too bad you learned to walk quickly! Here, most high school students have three rooms- mine, the other teacher's, and the gym. The gym is approximately ten steps from my room. The other HS room is even less. Students still have three minutes between classes. However, tardies are not counted until 10 minutes into the class! So, a student could potentially take 13 minutes between classes. Although, to their benefit, they don't. To top off this discussion: there is no bell. Not one. It broke. So, it's up to the teachers to dismiss students.
Another thing that is different here: communication. The Yup'ik culture uses a lot of nonverbal communication. For instance a scrunched up nose means no. And the raising of eyebrows means yes. Funny story about that. . . The other day I asked a question in class. I asked, "Do you think that being a good writer is something that can be learned?" ONe of my students looked right at me and enthusiastically raised his eyebrows two or three times. I tried to ignore him. I couldn't figure out what he was doing. Was he trying to point at something? Was he flirting (doesn't he know I'm at least 10 years older?)? Was he just strange? I didn't know. Luckily, another student answered. Then, I asked, "Is writing an e-mail easier than a research paper?" Again with the eyebrows. Then, like a ton of bricks, it hits me. He wasn't strange, he wasn't flirting, he was agreeing with me! He meant "yes" to both my questions! I felt pretty silly. Now, I really hope he doesn't read this blog.
Overall, the last two days were pretty good. And, although I like it here, I miss TMS!
In some ways things are exactly the same. I've had a kid fall asleep in my class already because he was up until 3 AM. Students here socialize with friends during class just like they did in Ohio. Many classroom management issues are the same (Yes, you have to sit in a seat. No, you can't tip back in your chair. I'm sorry, flicking quarters is not appropriate behavior). Also, most students want to share their story with you. I have students who work on a commercial fishing boat in the summer "pitching fish". I think it's mainly grunt work, but they have to start there to be promoted.
But, in some ways, school is completly different! First, let me explain about Alaska time. Everything here is far more laid back than in the Lower 48. If something is supposed to start at 8, it might not start until 8:30 and nobody thinks anything of it. School is somewhat the same way. At TMS, students have 3 minutes between classes. If you were in gym class and had to go across the building to science, too bad you learned to walk quickly! Here, most high school students have three rooms- mine, the other teacher's, and the gym. The gym is approximately ten steps from my room. The other HS room is even less. Students still have three minutes between classes. However, tardies are not counted until 10 minutes into the class! So, a student could potentially take 13 minutes between classes. Although, to their benefit, they don't. To top off this discussion: there is no bell. Not one. It broke. So, it's up to the teachers to dismiss students.
Another thing that is different here: communication. The Yup'ik culture uses a lot of nonverbal communication. For instance a scrunched up nose means no. And the raising of eyebrows means yes. Funny story about that. . . The other day I asked a question in class. I asked, "Do you think that being a good writer is something that can be learned?" ONe of my students looked right at me and enthusiastically raised his eyebrows two or three times. I tried to ignore him. I couldn't figure out what he was doing. Was he trying to point at something? Was he flirting (doesn't he know I'm at least 10 years older?)? Was he just strange? I didn't know. Luckily, another student answered. Then, I asked, "Is writing an e-mail easier than a research paper?" Again with the eyebrows. Then, like a ton of bricks, it hits me. He wasn't strange, he wasn't flirting, he was agreeing with me! He meant "yes" to both my questions! I felt pretty silly. Now, I really hope he doesn't read this blog.
Overall, the last two days were pretty good. And, although I like it here, I miss TMS!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Home Sweet Home
I thought it was about time that I posted something about Eek. I tried to have no expectations coming in. The houses are what I thought they would be--shacks by Lower 48 standards, but necessary here. Most houses are small because they're easier to heat that way. My house is what I call ghetto teacher housing. It's not really that bad, but all the other teachers live in brand new apartments and I have a trailer from the 70s! Let's discuss:
This is the spare bedroom. The black hole in the first picture is really a dark blue recliner. You can see the clothes hanging behind the recliner because there are no doors to a closet here. Strange. You can also see Portia on the desk.
To the left you'll see a picture of the outside of my house (EE07). That's as close as I come to a physical address. The wooden sidewalk is actually called a boardwalk. Off either side of the boardwalk is tall grass and mud--lots of mud.
This is what is called an arctic entryway or mud room. Please ignore all the boxes. The school is in the process of relocating things and they needed boxes, so I've been keeping mine in case they need some.
This is the kitchen. The water jug looking thing next to the sink is a filtration system. It's like a big Brita pitcher.
This is my living room. I had a hard time getting it all in the shot. It's not that big, but I just couldn't find a good angle! I have two recliners that I LOVE and a couch that's ok. The crazy lamp was left here by the former occupant. I can imagine that that's not the type of thing to check on a bush plane.
These two pictures are of my spacious bathroom. I'm saying that with all honesty because anyone who saw my last apartment knows that anything is an improvement! In the first picture you can see my two little earring racks. There are probably 20 pairs of earrings on each of them. I had some of the kids from the village in the other day and they were amazed by how many I had. I told them I had been collecting for awhile, and I'd been to a few Premier Design parties. They had no idea what that was though! In the second picture, behind the toilet is my shower stall. I'm supposed to be getting a tub soon. Keep your fingers crossed!
This is my pantry. The other side is full of shelves too. I took a picture of the full side. Pretty pathetic. I think I will be doing some more shopping soon!
This is the spare bedroom. The black hole in the first picture is really a dark blue recliner. You can see the clothes hanging behind the recliner because there are no doors to a closet here. Strange. You can also see Portia on the desk.
This is my bedroom. You can see how small the room really is. My bed is right against the wall and the nightstand is right next to it. In the first picture in the lower left corner is an air purfier that I borrowed from another teacher. The air in this house is not very clean. Overall, the house is not bad.
However, that being said there are a few things I wish I had brought with me:
1. JIF creamy peanut butter
2. black trash bags
3. DVDs. I forgot to send any of mine. I can rent them here, but that can get expensive!
4. air freshners and Frebreeze. Something in the house smells funny.
5. white socks for size 10 shoes.
6. any kind of chocolate stuff
7. duct tape
8. a trash can. I'm not really sure how I would have brought this, but I need one for the bathroom.
Well, I hope to post pics of the village and school soon. Also, check back for my thoughts on flying in a bush plane!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Finally touching down. . .
Well, I made it! I'm sorry it took me so long to post. I'll try to chunk this up to make it easier to read.
Day 1 (Monday)-
I arrived in Bethel at 8:15 AM after traveling in planes and waiting in airports for 20 hours. The airports were grueling. I had a carry on suitcase and a huge bag that I was passing off as my purse. Also, I had Portia (my cat). She had to go into the cargo hold and therefore I had to check her-- at every stop! This consists of TSA (Transportation Security Administration) frisking my cat and inspecting her kennel at all 3 stops on the trip. She made it fine. I even managed to sneak her out in the bathroom in both Denver and Anchorage to walk around a bit. Anyway, I met some new teachers immediately while waiting for my luggage. The adventure started when my suitcase came around and it was totally demolished. To make it worse, it was my mom's suitcase. I'm working on the claim. Monday was mainly spent filling out paperwork and running around town. I now have a local bank account and cell phone. I also bought mud boots. This was a completely necessary purchase as it rains here a LOT!!!! I did all of this with my new friend Segue. She is from Oklahoma and teaching in another village. She is one of the most interesting and practical people I have ever met. (She'll play into this blog a lot.)
That night Segue and I decided we couldn't live without a Diet Coke. So, we stopped at AC (Alaskan Wal-Mart) and picked up a few things. I spent $93 on 3 items. Let's discuss them. I bought mud boots. They're rubber boots, not very attractive, but very practical. They were on sale for $25. That's an ok deal. Then, I needed a fan. The hotel was hot and I didn't send one to Eek. I bought a 16" oscillating desk fan. In Ohio it would cost $20 or so. Here, I paid $50!!!!! Segue and I decided we had to have Diet Coke. I bought a 12 pack for $12.50. Yep, there goes the raise.
Day 2 (Tuesday)
We spent an entire day learning about curriculum in five different areas (writing, math, social studies, science, and Yup'ik culture). Although it was interesting it was pretty intense and long. Also, I have to talk about the food. For lunch, they gave us a burrito. It was steak and guacamole and a bunch of other stuff. IT was amazing! It came from a restaurant called Shogun. They serve Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, and American food. I'd recommend it next time you're in Bethel.
That night we went on a boat ride on the Kuskokwim River. It was amazing. I went with Segue and Sandy. Our driver, Jim, was a retired teacher for LKSD. Along the way he stopped and we picked berries. They were very good. We had salmonberries, blueberries, and blackberries. They all grow wild all over the tundra! Luckily, I wore my new mud boots because the tundra was, well, it was tundra. It was wet. Remember that the tundra is mostly water in the summer and snow and ice in the winter. So, as we walked picking berries your feet would sink into the ground and water would seep around them. The view was incredible.
Day 3 (Wednesday)
This day was spent discussing reading and it's part in LKSD. It was pretty interesting again.
That night we had a Native potluck where they had about 8 different kinds of salmon, including salmon tacos. I tried them. They were pretty good. Also, I had moose stew. Yes, it had moose in it. It was pretty good actually.
Day 4 (Thursday)
This day was spent discussing the Yup'ik culture and how it will affect my job. It was interesting, but intense. We tried Eskimo ice cream that day. This is a variant of the famous fish ice cream I mentioned earlier. This one had Crisco, powdered sugar, blackberries, and salmonberries. It actually was ok. I wouldn't want a whole bowl though.
Then, I picked up Portia and we went to the airport. Not Alaska Airlines, but Yute Air. My principal Kip and I had a chartered flight out. They weighed our luggage so they could distribute it correctly. Unfortunately, I also had to be weighed. They weigh passengers so they can distribute the cargo safely. I was a little nervous for this flight since it's a tiny bush plane. It held 4 people. I flew in a Cessna 207 if you're technical. Frankly, the only difference was that it was louder and maybe a bit more bumpy. That was it! I know many people are afraid of small planes, but really there's nothing to worry about. When we landed I thanked the pilot and told him it was my first small plane ride. He said, "Really? Mine too!" I laughed and told him he did a great job then. I suppose you have to put up bad humor from the guy willing to fly across the tundra.
Then, we packed our stuff into a trailer that was hooked up to the back of a four-wheeler. It was also my first four wheeler ride. I had to sit on the side and hang on with one hand while the other hand held onto Portia. Luckily, the town is pretty small so it didn't take long. I walked in the door and two of the teachers came and had me over for dinner. It was very good food and better company.
All in all, I think I'll like it here.
Well, this has been rather lengthy so I'll leave the rest for later this weekend. I'll post pictures as soon as I unpack my card reader!
Day 1 (Monday)-
I arrived in Bethel at 8:15 AM after traveling in planes and waiting in airports for 20 hours. The airports were grueling. I had a carry on suitcase and a huge bag that I was passing off as my purse. Also, I had Portia (my cat). She had to go into the cargo hold and therefore I had to check her-- at every stop! This consists of TSA (Transportation Security Administration) frisking my cat and inspecting her kennel at all 3 stops on the trip. She made it fine. I even managed to sneak her out in the bathroom in both Denver and Anchorage to walk around a bit. Anyway, I met some new teachers immediately while waiting for my luggage. The adventure started when my suitcase came around and it was totally demolished. To make it worse, it was my mom's suitcase. I'm working on the claim. Monday was mainly spent filling out paperwork and running around town. I now have a local bank account and cell phone. I also bought mud boots. This was a completely necessary purchase as it rains here a LOT!!!! I did all of this with my new friend Segue. She is from Oklahoma and teaching in another village. She is one of the most interesting and practical people I have ever met. (She'll play into this blog a lot.)
That night Segue and I decided we couldn't live without a Diet Coke. So, we stopped at AC (Alaskan Wal-Mart) and picked up a few things. I spent $93 on 3 items. Let's discuss them. I bought mud boots. They're rubber boots, not very attractive, but very practical. They were on sale for $25. That's an ok deal. Then, I needed a fan. The hotel was hot and I didn't send one to Eek. I bought a 16" oscillating desk fan. In Ohio it would cost $20 or so. Here, I paid $50!!!!! Segue and I decided we had to have Diet Coke. I bought a 12 pack for $12.50. Yep, there goes the raise.
Day 2 (Tuesday)
We spent an entire day learning about curriculum in five different areas (writing, math, social studies, science, and Yup'ik culture). Although it was interesting it was pretty intense and long. Also, I have to talk about the food. For lunch, they gave us a burrito. It was steak and guacamole and a bunch of other stuff. IT was amazing! It came from a restaurant called Shogun. They serve Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, and American food. I'd recommend it next time you're in Bethel.
That night we went on a boat ride on the Kuskokwim River. It was amazing. I went with Segue and Sandy. Our driver, Jim, was a retired teacher for LKSD. Along the way he stopped and we picked berries. They were very good. We had salmonberries, blueberries, and blackberries. They all grow wild all over the tundra! Luckily, I wore my new mud boots because the tundra was, well, it was tundra. It was wet. Remember that the tundra is mostly water in the summer and snow and ice in the winter. So, as we walked picking berries your feet would sink into the ground and water would seep around them. The view was incredible.
Day 3 (Wednesday)
This day was spent discussing reading and it's part in LKSD. It was pretty interesting again.
That night we had a Native potluck where they had about 8 different kinds of salmon, including salmon tacos. I tried them. They were pretty good. Also, I had moose stew. Yes, it had moose in it. It was pretty good actually.
Day 4 (Thursday)
This day was spent discussing the Yup'ik culture and how it will affect my job. It was interesting, but intense. We tried Eskimo ice cream that day. This is a variant of the famous fish ice cream I mentioned earlier. This one had Crisco, powdered sugar, blackberries, and salmonberries. It actually was ok. I wouldn't want a whole bowl though.
Then, I picked up Portia and we went to the airport. Not Alaska Airlines, but Yute Air. My principal Kip and I had a chartered flight out. They weighed our luggage so they could distribute it correctly. Unfortunately, I also had to be weighed. They weigh passengers so they can distribute the cargo safely. I was a little nervous for this flight since it's a tiny bush plane. It held 4 people. I flew in a Cessna 207 if you're technical. Frankly, the only difference was that it was louder and maybe a bit more bumpy. That was it! I know many people are afraid of small planes, but really there's nothing to worry about. When we landed I thanked the pilot and told him it was my first small plane ride. He said, "Really? Mine too!" I laughed and told him he did a great job then. I suppose you have to put up bad humor from the guy willing to fly across the tundra.
Then, we packed our stuff into a trailer that was hooked up to the back of a four-wheeler. It was also my first four wheeler ride. I had to sit on the side and hang on with one hand while the other hand held onto Portia. Luckily, the town is pretty small so it didn't take long. I walked in the door and two of the teachers came and had me over for dinner. It was very good food and better company.
All in all, I think I'll like it here.
Well, this has been rather lengthy so I'll leave the rest for later this weekend. I'll post pictures as soon as I unpack my card reader!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
"Tiffin. . . It's only one year!"
Those were my exact words when people asked what I thought about my first teaching job being in Tiffin, Ohio. I kept telling people it was only one year. I could handle that. That was five years ago. Everyone always told me that life flies by after you graduate. I didn't think it was true. I knew that college was amazing and I couldn't imagine anything better. In fact, I forbid my friends from mentioning the month of May my senior of college because that meant it was over. And, as much as absolutely LOVED OWU and DZ, I have to admit Tiffin has been better. I think it's directly related to a steady paycheck of more than $100.
I'd like to take a minute to talk about why I've enjoyed living here so much. I just had a little cook-out to say goodbye to friends. About 45 of my closest friends and family members were there. There were people there from every part of my life.
Without further ado, here is my list of why Tiffin is just dandy. . .
1. My family. I didn't grow up in Tiffin, so I didn't get to see my grandparents or extended family too much as a child. Living here fixed that, and I'm so happy I got the chance to do so.
2. Heidelberg University, especially Dr. Diane Armstrong. I took one elective course at the 'Berg while I was living here. In that class I met six amazing women who have become some of my best friends here in town. I will miss our 4:30 dinners where we order everything from appetizers to dessert because we're at the table so long!
3. Reino's. Just because it's great.
4. The amount of parades. Who knew a town needed so many?
5. The Ritz Theatre. A place where I've honed my love of theater, made great friends, and had too many laughs to count. Also, I think it's amazing that a small town has such a great theater. Many people here don't realize how wonderful and rare it is. Treasure it, Tiffinites.
6. Tiffin City Schools. Obviously I love TCS because of the paychecks they gave me, but there are other reasons. I'm leaving town for another teaching job. I only got the job because of my teaching skills and accomplishments. I became the teacher I am because of TCS. I couldn't have embarked on this adventure without the help of staff, teachers, and administrators.
7. Tiffin Middle School. I list this separately because I made more friends at TMS than any other place in town. I'll miss everything from rainy bus duty to breakfast pizza to the lunch room. I can't explain why the lunch room was so great; you just had to be there. Oh, and the students were pretty awesome too.
I apologize for this tome to Tiffin because I'm sure many of you won't care if you don't live here. But, this is why I can move to Alaska. Life is a road in which every turn counts.
I'd like to take a minute to talk about why I've enjoyed living here so much. I just had a little cook-out to say goodbye to friends. About 45 of my closest friends and family members were there. There were people there from every part of my life.
Without further ado, here is my list of why Tiffin is just dandy. . .
1. My family. I didn't grow up in Tiffin, so I didn't get to see my grandparents or extended family too much as a child. Living here fixed that, and I'm so happy I got the chance to do so.
2. Heidelberg University, especially Dr. Diane Armstrong. I took one elective course at the 'Berg while I was living here. In that class I met six amazing women who have become some of my best friends here in town. I will miss our 4:30 dinners where we order everything from appetizers to dessert because we're at the table so long!
3. Reino's. Just because it's great.
4. The amount of parades. Who knew a town needed so many?
5. The Ritz Theatre. A place where I've honed my love of theater, made great friends, and had too many laughs to count. Also, I think it's amazing that a small town has such a great theater. Many people here don't realize how wonderful and rare it is. Treasure it, Tiffinites.
6. Tiffin City Schools. Obviously I love TCS because of the paychecks they gave me, but there are other reasons. I'm leaving town for another teaching job. I only got the job because of my teaching skills and accomplishments. I became the teacher I am because of TCS. I couldn't have embarked on this adventure without the help of staff, teachers, and administrators.
7. Tiffin Middle School. I list this separately because I made more friends at TMS than any other place in town. I'll miss everything from rainy bus duty to breakfast pizza to the lunch room. I can't explain why the lunch room was so great; you just had to be there. Oh, and the students were pretty awesome too.
I apologize for this tome to Tiffin because I'm sure many of you won't care if you don't live here. But, this is why I can move to Alaska. Life is a road in which every turn counts.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Lunch with a vet
This past Friday I had the opportunity to have lunch with Errol Miller. He is a retired teacher from Wooster who happened to spend two years in rural Alaska as a teacher and administrator. He brought his wife, Kathy, and daughter, Kalina, to lunch also. I took my mom and brother. The six of us had a nice time and I learned A LOT!!!
They told me some pretty scary things:
1. Fish ice cream is a common treat. The main ingredients are fish and Crisco. . .
2. I will be expected to know how to skin a moose and clean a fish.
3. I will be expected to work for free outside of the school day.
4. In their village (which was not Eek) every native woman over the age of 3 had been sexually assaulted at least once in her life. Every single woman.
Some not so bad things they told me:
1. They would go back in a heartbeat, as long as the school was on the road system.
2. I will become an expert shopper. (Like I'm not already?)
Another interesting thing they told me was about currency. Checks are generally made out to cash and can be passed around like cash. For instance, if I were to write a check for $50 to someone, for say fish, that person could then give the check to someone else to whom they owed $50. Checks sometimes never clear in the bank account. Can you imagine?
After talking to them, I feel better, but also a little more apprehensive. I think it's good that I got to hear these things that are not so good. It lets me know that it won't all be roses when I get there. However, I am still very excited and happy to have this opportunity. I now just have a healthy dose of reality.
They told me some pretty scary things:
1. Fish ice cream is a common treat. The main ingredients are fish and Crisco. . .
2. I will be expected to know how to skin a moose and clean a fish.
3. I will be expected to work for free outside of the school day.
4. In their village (which was not Eek) every native woman over the age of 3 had been sexually assaulted at least once in her life. Every single woman.
Some not so bad things they told me:
1. They would go back in a heartbeat, as long as the school was on the road system.
2. I will become an expert shopper. (Like I'm not already?)
Another interesting thing they told me was about currency. Checks are generally made out to cash and can be passed around like cash. For instance, if I were to write a check for $50 to someone, for say fish, that person could then give the check to someone else to whom they owed $50. Checks sometimes never clear in the bank account. Can you imagine?
After talking to them, I feel better, but also a little more apprehensive. I think it's good that I got to hear these things that are not so good. It lets me know that it won't all be roses when I get there. However, I am still very excited and happy to have this opportunity. I now just have a healthy dose of reality.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Hometown Fame
Well, perhaps fame is a little too strong of a word. My mom informed me a few weeks ago that she had let our hometown newspaper, The Times-Reporter, know that I was moving to Alaska in case they wanted to do a little article on it. They did, and I e-mailed an intern named Rachael for about a week with all sorts of information. I truly expected that this story would be on page 12 of the Sunday paper. It was actually on Page 1 of a Thursday edition. I was a little embarrassed, but it was also fun. Follow the link to read the article. You may notice a few Tiffinites in the picture!
http://www.timesreporter.com/homepage/x135736337/Northern-exposure
A few funny things have happened since then. I got home from Atwood Lake today and my brother had called. He told me that there was a message on my parents' phone from a man in Wooster, Ohio, letting me know that he too had left home and taught in Alaska. He wanted to let me know that I could call him if I had questions. I'll fill all of you in on the call later.
However, the strangest thing that has happened because of the article has to be that a man called my parents and told them that his son had moved to, believe it or not, EEK, ALASKA, from UHRICHSVILLE!!! I can't believe that I'm not the first person to move from Uhrichsville to Eek. How is that even possible? Although his son has passed away his grandsons and great-grandchildren still live in Eek. I understand that they are pretty thrilled that I'm coming. My mom even spoke to another relative still living in the Tuscarawas County area. Strange, huh?
I'd also like to let everyone know that I heard of Sarah Palin's resignation. Although, I am a devoted Democrat, I must admit that Palin was actually a decent education governor. I cannot comment on any other facet of her term as I haven't researched it. I can't say that I'm terribly upset about her resignation.
http://www.timesreporter.com/homepage/x135736337/Northern-exposure
A few funny things have happened since then. I got home from Atwood Lake today and my brother had called. He told me that there was a message on my parents' phone from a man in Wooster, Ohio, letting me know that he too had left home and taught in Alaska. He wanted to let me know that I could call him if I had questions. I'll fill all of you in on the call later.
However, the strangest thing that has happened because of the article has to be that a man called my parents and told them that his son had moved to, believe it or not, EEK, ALASKA, from UHRICHSVILLE!!! I can't believe that I'm not the first person to move from Uhrichsville to Eek. How is that even possible? Although his son has passed away his grandsons and great-grandchildren still live in Eek. I understand that they are pretty thrilled that I'm coming. My mom even spoke to another relative still living in the Tuscarawas County area. Strange, huh?
I'd also like to let everyone know that I heard of Sarah Palin's resignation. Although, I am a devoted Democrat, I must admit that Palin was actually a decent education governor. I cannot comment on any other facet of her term as I haven't researched it. I can't say that I'm terribly upset about her resignation.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
"The Look"
Today, I'd like to commentate on "the look". Some of you may ask, "What is 'the look', Erin?" Well, "the look" is the facial expression put on by people when they first learn that I'm moving to Alaska. "The look" really falls into three categories:
1. The you're crazy, but I'm going to smile anyway look
2. The I'm jealous look
And, well, ok maybe there are just two looks!
The easier look to explain is #2. Many people have traveled to Alaska and loved, or known someone who has been there and liked it. They remember the tree lined horizon, the huge mountains, and the majestic wildlife. They mention all this with a reverence that one gives a dead, but well-liked friend. I don't have the heart to tell them that Eek is far from those descriptions. It's tundra, no trees or mountains.
The other look is more common. People will often say that they have no desire to do it themselves, but are happy that I'm doing it. The most recent time I got this look was today at the post office. I have become a regular at the Tiffin Post Office. I know to pull around back and stack my packages on the trailer, ring the bell, and wait for someone to come out. Most of the people know me, but today I was helped by Amy. She had never seen me before. She was pulling out a bin of mail as I was stacking my packages. She looked at me with a strange sidelong look. I explained what I was doing, and she looked at my mailing label and smiled. "Oh, you're the Alaska girl, huh?" I nodded and agreed that I am indeed the Alaska girl. She looked at me with a half smile that said, "So this is what crazy looks like." She was more blunt with her thoughts. "Why are you moving there?" she asked. So, I explained myself again (for about the thousandth time!), and waited to be checked out.
This look is actually my favorite of the two. I know that what I'm doing is unorthodox, but that's what makes it the best. I can't wait for all the people who were confused and surprised by my move to see that following your heart isn't crazy or unorthodox, but something we should all do. Imagine what the world would be like if we all followed our hearts.
1. The you're crazy, but I'm going to smile anyway look
2. The I'm jealous look
And, well, ok maybe there are just two looks!
The easier look to explain is #2. Many people have traveled to Alaska and loved, or known someone who has been there and liked it. They remember the tree lined horizon, the huge mountains, and the majestic wildlife. They mention all this with a reverence that one gives a dead, but well-liked friend. I don't have the heart to tell them that Eek is far from those descriptions. It's tundra, no trees or mountains.
The other look is more common. People will often say that they have no desire to do it themselves, but are happy that I'm doing it. The most recent time I got this look was today at the post office. I have become a regular at the Tiffin Post Office. I know to pull around back and stack my packages on the trailer, ring the bell, and wait for someone to come out. Most of the people know me, but today I was helped by Amy. She had never seen me before. She was pulling out a bin of mail as I was stacking my packages. She looked at me with a strange sidelong look. I explained what I was doing, and she looked at my mailing label and smiled. "Oh, you're the Alaska girl, huh?" I nodded and agreed that I am indeed the Alaska girl. She looked at me with a half smile that said, "So this is what crazy looks like." She was more blunt with her thoughts. "Why are you moving there?" she asked. So, I explained myself again (for about the thousandth time!), and waited to be checked out.
This look is actually my favorite of the two. I know that what I'm doing is unorthodox, but that's what makes it the best. I can't wait for all the people who were confused and surprised by my move to see that following your heart isn't crazy or unorthodox, but something we should all do. Imagine what the world would be like if we all followed our hearts.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
A lovely weekend?
So, I know this blog is supposed to be about Alaska and all my adventures there, but today's post is not. I spent the weekend at my parents' house, or rather camper. Everything was fine. Then, I started home. I had been noticing a strange noise coming from my car all weekend. Sort of a high pitched whine type of noise. I asked my dad about it, and he told me it was nothing to worry about. Well, he was wrong.
On the way back home, my car shifted hard from one gear to another. I knew what was happening. The transmission was going out. This the SECOND time this has happened in SIX WEEKS!!!!! For those of you who are not drivers yet, a transmission is a few thousand dollars. I tried to limp the car back, but to no avail. It started acting funny, so I pulled over. I wasn't just on a small street either. I was on State Route 30 in Mansfield. This is probably the busiest road in Richland County.
I called home, very upset, and asked for the number of a tow truck. My parents asked if I had AAA. I replied of course not. I'm moving to Alaska where there are no roads!!! So, I spent the next half hour trying to arrange something to get myself and my car back to Tiffin. I didn't relish the idea of driving from Mansfield to Tiffin with the tow truck driver, but I would have.
Luckily, my Aunt Elaine came to the rescue (again). She drove to pick me up and arranged for a tow. However, then the fun started. As the tow truck driver, hereafter referred to as Mountain Man, was getting my car up, Elaine wondered why her hazard lights were no longer working. She proceeded to get into her car and attempt to start it. It didn't budge. So, not only was I stuck in Mansfield, had a second transmission fail, but my ride's car had a dead battery. We waited for Mountain Man to finish fiddling with my car to tell him that Elaine needed a jump. When we did tell him, he shook his head and informed us that on the "big truck" they don't carry jumper cables and a battery. What??? What tow truck doesn't have that stuff. Mountain Man called in and they told him they didn't have anyone to send. So, he said he would have to turn the truck around to face Elaine's car.
Let me be very clear. Cars and trucks were rushing past at 60-65 miles per hour the whole time. Nobody had stopped or slowed down the entire time I was there, and this guy is going to turn around a tow truck in the middle of traffic, with my car on the bed!!! So, while trying to refrain from having a heart attack, I watched as Mountain Man turned the truck around to give us a jump. Now, he didn't pull off to the shoulder. He just sat in the left lane blocking traffic while he did this. Fortunately, it didn't take long.
Finally, we were on our way. We made it back to Tiffin without too much more trouble. In my favor is the fact that my grandparents have an extra car. So, I am not without a car, but I did just remember that I left all my luggage, including toiletries and such, in Elaine's car. . .
On the way back home, my car shifted hard from one gear to another. I knew what was happening. The transmission was going out. This the SECOND time this has happened in SIX WEEKS!!!!! For those of you who are not drivers yet, a transmission is a few thousand dollars. I tried to limp the car back, but to no avail. It started acting funny, so I pulled over. I wasn't just on a small street either. I was on State Route 30 in Mansfield. This is probably the busiest road in Richland County.
I called home, very upset, and asked for the number of a tow truck. My parents asked if I had AAA. I replied of course not. I'm moving to Alaska where there are no roads!!! So, I spent the next half hour trying to arrange something to get myself and my car back to Tiffin. I didn't relish the idea of driving from Mansfield to Tiffin with the tow truck driver, but I would have.
Luckily, my Aunt Elaine came to the rescue (again). She drove to pick me up and arranged for a tow. However, then the fun started. As the tow truck driver, hereafter referred to as Mountain Man, was getting my car up, Elaine wondered why her hazard lights were no longer working. She proceeded to get into her car and attempt to start it. It didn't budge. So, not only was I stuck in Mansfield, had a second transmission fail, but my ride's car had a dead battery. We waited for Mountain Man to finish fiddling with my car to tell him that Elaine needed a jump. When we did tell him, he shook his head and informed us that on the "big truck" they don't carry jumper cables and a battery. What??? What tow truck doesn't have that stuff. Mountain Man called in and they told him they didn't have anyone to send. So, he said he would have to turn the truck around to face Elaine's car.
Let me be very clear. Cars and trucks were rushing past at 60-65 miles per hour the whole time. Nobody had stopped or slowed down the entire time I was there, and this guy is going to turn around a tow truck in the middle of traffic, with my car on the bed!!! So, while trying to refrain from having a heart attack, I watched as Mountain Man turned the truck around to give us a jump. Now, he didn't pull off to the shoulder. He just sat in the left lane blocking traffic while he did this. Fortunately, it didn't take long.
Finally, we were on our way. We made it back to Tiffin without too much more trouble. In my favor is the fact that my grandparents have an extra car. So, I am not without a car, but I did just remember that I left all my luggage, including toiletries and such, in Elaine's car. . .
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Farewell TMS!!!
Five years ago, a very nervous girl went to a job interview. She was wearing a black suit purchased by her parents and had a portfolio filled with students' work. For whatever reason, the administration of Tiffin City Schools gave her the job. Now, of course, unless you're a complete moron, you have figured out that that girl is me. It is with a heavy heart that I walked out of the school today.
Honestly, I cannot imagine working in a place where creativity is valued more or professionalism is a common trait than at Tiffin Middle School. I have been privliged to work with some talented professionals and wonderful students. Today was very sad for me. Although, my colleagues came through again and purchased three boxes of food for me. It was very thoughtful. Of course, I think the most thoughtful gift was the two packages of Wendy's crackers. Thanks Mike.
We all know that when you move you unload a lot of junk. Well, let me assure you, that my classroom was no different. In fact, I think it was worse than house. Why did I keep those lesson plans for 5 years? Especially because they were on my computer!!
So, I came home after a hard day's work and began packing. I have 8 boxes ready to go. Unfortunately, one roll of packing tape (for $3.49 from the USPS) tapes a terribly small amount of stuff. Nonetheless, my first load will be sent out tomorrow. Hopefully, it won't break the bank!
This is a very random post, but perhaps you'll forgive me since I'm a little frazzled. More tomorrow after Portia's vet appointment!
Honestly, I cannot imagine working in a place where creativity is valued more or professionalism is a common trait than at Tiffin Middle School. I have been privliged to work with some talented professionals and wonderful students. Today was very sad for me. Although, my colleagues came through again and purchased three boxes of food for me. It was very thoughtful. Of course, I think the most thoughtful gift was the two packages of Wendy's crackers. Thanks Mike.
We all know that when you move you unload a lot of junk. Well, let me assure you, that my classroom was no different. In fact, I think it was worse than house. Why did I keep those lesson plans for 5 years? Especially because they were on my computer!!
So, I came home after a hard day's work and began packing. I have 8 boxes ready to go. Unfortunately, one roll of packing tape (for $3.49 from the USPS) tapes a terribly small amount of stuff. Nonetheless, my first load will be sent out tomorrow. Hopefully, it won't break the bank!
This is a very random post, but perhaps you'll forgive me since I'm a little frazzled. More tomorrow after Portia's vet appointment!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Why ALASKA?????
I think I've probably been asked about a hundred times now why I'm moving to Eek, Alaska. There are several reasons. First a professional goal: I want my PhD. The program I want is competitive and teaching somewhere like this will give me an edge. Second, a practical goal: I have a lot of student loans, and they can be forgiven for working in rural Alaska. Third, a personal goal: how cool will it be to live in Alaska? (both literally and figuratively).
So, I got online and started checking out schools in Alaska. I went to the ATP job fair in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and starting interviewing. I actually didn't think I got the job because they made me wait about 3 weeks to offer it. Luckily, they did offer it! Since the job offer my inbox has been flooded with paperwork that has to be done soon.
I have about a million questions that need to be answered. Like what do I take? What do I leave? Banking? Is Michelle Lange, right? Do I really need to trade furs and pelts, or do they accept Visa? These are all questions that I have, and hopefully will get answered before I go.
If any of you have questions, feel free to ask!
So, I got online and started checking out schools in Alaska. I went to the ATP job fair in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and starting interviewing. I actually didn't think I got the job because they made me wait about 3 weeks to offer it. Luckily, they did offer it! Since the job offer my inbox has been flooded with paperwork that has to be done soon.
I have about a million questions that need to be answered. Like what do I take? What do I leave? Banking? Is Michelle Lange, right? Do I really need to trade furs and pelts, or do they accept Visa? These are all questions that I have, and hopefully will get answered before I go.
If any of you have questions, feel free to ask!
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