
It has been flat out crazy during the last couple of weeks, that’s why I haven’t been around much lately. But, you know me. No matter how full my plate may be, my brain’s always whizzing all over the place. No one can accuse me of having a one track mind, that’s for sure. In any case, here are some of the things that I’ve been thinking about recently…
- Completing my first teaching practicum – It’s incredible to think that I have actually completed my first major placement. Yes, I’ve been a primary school teacher for four weeks and I’ve survived (my students are scratch-free too, methinks). Great feedback from my mentor teacher (also received a farewell bouquet of flowers from her!). And, even though there were days when I questioned my sanity for doing what I’m doing (I think that sort of thing happens, especially when you’re averaging 4 to 5 hour sleeps most days), I think I’m quite stoked with the overall experience. Sure, there were hiccups and such, but I know I learned a lot . And, I even managed to have some fun along the way!
- Starting my second semester at grad school – Although I only finished my prac a few days ago, I’m back to Uni this week. Not in full force yet until next week, though. But yeah, it’s back to readings, lectures, tutorials, and assignments. Thankfully, compared to the first semester, this one appears to be a bit lighter load. I have two major subjects, one of which is a combination of two topics: 1) Theories of Behaviour Management (special ed component) and 2) Physical Education + Science. Eeeps. I’m looking forward to them, except I’m not quite sure how I’d fare with P.E. seeing as I’m soooo unfit. I guess, it’s a good time as any to start becoming fitter, as I engage in sporting activities 3 hours a week for the next few weeks, eh? Oh and yeah, I also have a lecture for four weeks to prepare us for our next major practicum next year.
- Books and reading – For some reason, I’m finding snippets of time to catch up on some light reading lately. Not a lot, admittedly. But, more than I thought is possible. That’s why I’ve been visiting the library a fair bit recently. And, I’m really happy about it. I definitely hope to keep this up!
- Writing and Blogging – Of course, these activities are always on my radar. However, lately, I’ve been thinking a bit more about them. In fact, on the writing front, I even started a new fiction project on my writing software. And, I’ve been “living” that project every chance I get. Blogging’s never far from my mind, as you can probably imagine. For all sorts of reasons.
- Main Online Project – This one’s not going as fast as I hoped it would. But, it’s moving. And, I suppose that’s the main thing. We’re making progress. The site’s being redesigned and I’m trying to put together some finishing touches to get it ready for launch. Hopefully, soon!
- Baking – Yep, I am still obsessed. I haven’t baked as much as I’d like, though. I think, the most recent goodies I’ve made are Jen’s yummy Banana Cake (highly recommended recipe!) and a batch of double chocolate cupcakes (based on some mashed-up recipes). I’ve definitely been spending a fair bit of time researching the next baking goody that I’ll try to make.
- Movies / Cinema / TV – This is partly due to the fiction writing project that I mentioned earlier (that’s about as far as I can share at this stage!). And, well… partly due to the guy you see pictured in today’s photo collage. For those of you who aren’t familiar with that absolutely gorgeous guy, his name is Tom Wisdom. He’s a British actor who starred as Astinos in the film “300″ and as Ian in the chick flick “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2″. And most recently, as (Midnight) Mark in the UK comedy “The Boat That Rocked” (will be released as “Pirate Radio” in the US later in the year). I am not usually the ‘fan girl’ variety, that’s why I very rarely mention celebrities, movies, or TV shows here – and when I do, they’re usually in passing. So, I am a bit embarrassed to admit to becoming such a nerdy fan girl at the moment. In fact, my ‘fandom’ is so massive right now, I can’t capture it in to one single blog post. Perhaps, if I get over my embarrassment, I might actually find the nerve to blog more about it. Maybe I’ll just call it ‘the broadening of my horizons/interests’. Right? Ahhh… well.
- End of Winter – Well, not quite. But yes, we’re almost there! We’re still getting some lovely rains and the chilly mornings/evenings. However, we’re definitely getting more sunny days. And, the trees in our garden are beginning to blossom again. Such a wonderful sight! Really looking forward to warmer days now…
- S Studio’s Anniversary Month – Yes, I just realised that shaicoggins.com is turning 9 years old this month. I never got in to the habit of celebrating this anniversary, so I keep forgetting about it. Last year, I set up an iCal reminder so I can remember it this year. But now, I am not even sure what I can do to celebrate. Hmmm…
What’s on YOUR mind lately?
I feel your pain regarding the PE class. I have fine this semester also and am a bit nervous with my fragile knee! Even more nerve wrecking however is my music class. I have to learn how to play a recorder! I could never learn how to read music growing up so I am terrified to say the least!
I was just thinking I need to do a summer roundup post at my blog even though my actual summer was less than a month long
I hope things get moving for you with the online project and redesign. It’s exciting!
Maybe for the blog anniversary you could do an anniversary party “Best of” type post? Either way, congrats on another successful year here!
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Shai Coggins reply on August 28th, 2009:
Hi, Kari. Yes, I can imagine that that will be a bit scary (abt PE and your knee). So hopefully, you do get to take it easy. Thanks also for everything else!
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I’ve been nesting. This has been in the form of knitting for the kids, moving house and then setting it up, and gardening. I’m trying to get everything ready for the end of the year and it freaks me out that it is half way through August already! I am really proud at how much my knitting has improved this year though and all the practice I am getting on these cold wet days is perfect for that.
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Shai Coggins reply on August 28th, 2009:
Melissa: Ah yes, nesting. I can picture that.
Hope you’re getting some R & R too. Take care.
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You have been busy. It’s been a while since I made that banana cake myself. It tends to be more of a summer thing when bananas don’t last as long as they do when it’s colder.
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Shai Coggins reply on August 28th, 2009:
Hi, jen. Yeah, crazy busy as always.
That banana cake recipe of yours is definitely one of the homebaked faves in this house. Even made it for staff members in my school during my practicum.
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Hi Shai. I always enjoy reading what you have been up to! I really like how you always seem to be moving forwards, onto new things, new adventures, mashing up recipes or learning a new skill (at uni even!)
Thanks for sharing!
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Shai Coggins reply on August 28th, 2009:
Hi, Jasmin. It’s a pleasure to share, especially when there are folks like you who’re happy to read about my blabberings.
Thanks again for the visit. I always enjoy saying hello.
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Congrats on finishing your practicum. It was one of the most enjoyable and stressful times of my life.
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Shai Coggins reply on August 28th, 2009:
Thanks, Magali. Prac was definitely exhausting – and stressful in some instances. But, I enjoyed it for the most part. Now on to the next one in a few months’ time…
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congrats on S Studio’s 9th anniversary, Shai! Perhaps you can run a challenge or giveaways?
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Shai Coggins reply on August 28th, 2009:
Thanks, Christine. I have decided to do a few things for the anniversary… So, hopefully, you can get to join in the fun too.
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