A long needed update

Well, I started this blog about six months ago and haven't really posted much. A LOT has happened since then. I graduated from school and am now teaching at Whatcom Community College and Skagit Valley College. Here's a link to my "Faculty Page" at Whatcom. It makes me feel so official. Ha ha. http://www.whatcom.ctc.edu/faculty/faculty.php?member=cconnors

For Winter quarter, I am teaching five classes. It keeps me really busy. I teach in all different areas of ESL (English as a Second Language). I have "basic skills" ESL and "academic" ESL. Each program is unique in its own way. The students are great, and even if I have a day where I don't feel like going to work, once I get there the students make it all worth while. They have so much dedication and drive.

I recently had a graduation party and that was a lot of fun. The theme was 70's, 80's, and 90's and I was happy that so many people dressed up. It was so good to see old friends. Here are some great pictures from the party.

I am from.

I am from youth and ignorance
that tried to develop over the years
as they dealt with their own "I am froms."

I am from the fields of dreams
with cool flowing rivers.
Riding bikes and building forts.

I am from a struggling home:
a learning experience for sure.
Endings are not always happy.

I am from independence and strength,
but needing.

I am from hope and optimism
that has to last.

School and Work = Love / Hate

Hi! Well, I'm just starting my blog and am honestly just wasting time on campus before class tonight. I'm in my second to last quarter of grad school and it sure has been dragging on... I love school, but wouldn't mind a break! Once I'm done (the exact day in fact) Dylan and I are going to Mexico! I can't wait. We were planning on going to Cabo, but now it's Puerto Vallarta. Either way will be so much fun!!

This summer I am working as a program coordinator for Compass USA. I have been planning for a group of seven Jr. High Japanese girls to be here for 2 1/2 weeks. They will be here in about 19 days or so. I'm nervous and excited at the same time. Being a coordinator is much different than being a teacher, that's for sure. I wanted to do this for more experience and a prettier resume. Both jobs take A LOT of planning, but coordinating is a lot more stressful in my opinion. If I forget to do something, it can cause a lot of problems. I think I'm doing good so far... I'll let you know after the students have come and gone. I'll post some good pictures too.

Bye for now

~CC