I Wonder Why...

I wonder why when I hear or read something mean about myself, it echoes in my mind. Yet, when I get a compliment I immediately brush it off as though I don't deserve it.

Today I read through the course evaluations from the three classes I taught last semester (done by the students). Many of them had good things to say like, "Without this class I would have failed" and "She is an excellent teacher and really knows her stuff". And that's typically how I feel about myself as a stats teacher as well. But then there were those few disgruntled students who hated coming to class and didn't like me much who said things like "SHE IS THE WORST TEACHER EVER" and "SHE HAS NO IDEA WHAT SHE'S TALKING ABOUT AND SEEMS COMPLETELY UNPREPARED". Obviously, there is no real need to take these things personally. But then I question myself and think "Are they right? Am I just a fake teacher who is only half-trying and just hoping for a paycheck?"

And again I ask myself why I can't just let the bad things go and dwell on the nice things that people say?

Summer

This summer has been a good one so far. Frankie was the first big event of the summer, and it kind of put a bit of a damper on things. I had plans to paint the whole house before the summer semester started and all sorts of other fun plans. I did get one room painted, but haven't done any painting since.

My summer semester started on Monday. This means that the college algebra night class I have been dreading looking forward to teaching has started. My students seem like good-hearted people who want to learn, so I anticipate having a good 14 days with them. Yes, I said 14 days. We have a regular semester worth of class (about 48 days) packed into two short weeks. I feel bad for the students, but it is their choice (and I'm getting paid more than a regular semester so I certainly don't mind). Along with the college algebra class, I am hosting a recitation/help session for a stats class. I started that one today. It's voluntary for the students, but I had a good turnout. I think that one will go well also.

In other news, we had Mark's family reunion this past weekend. It was a blast! Imagine a weekend filled with Lagoon, hiking, eating, and playing games. Who could wish for more? We also had family pictures done. It's great having photographers in the family. When I get some pictures of Mark and me I'll put them up here.

Finally, it's my birthday on Friday and I'm planning to use the tickets from last weekend's Lagoon trip to bounce back with some friends. Hooray! I'm also looking forward to spending time with my parents for Father's Day this weekend.

That's all for now! Pictures to come later.

Frankie's Newest Look

He's looking good! I got the stitches out today. That's the first picture. The second picture is how we're dressing him these days.

And to think it's only been 11 days...