1st Week in Review

I've gained so many new ideas about new ways to teach and write poetry, how to blog (something that was very new to me), a way to get students to love comparing and contrasting literature, and some great strategies for eliciting voice in student writing. I've also learned how cool the e-Anthology site is. I really loved the randomness of the Open Mic link and the day by day institute descpritions in A Day in the Life. Because this really is the life--a great way for educators to learn from each other. It's also been a reaffirmation of some of my most dearly held beliefs about education.

This week I was able to bring snacks on Tues., present my demo on Thurs., and to give the minutes on Friday. I LOVE that I have those things behind me. Please don't get me wrong. I loved doing those things, even getting this blank look from my husband at his computer when I told him from my computer how much fun doing a Works Cited page was. It's just that now I get to focus on other's demos and to focus more on my nightly writing.

I've got a ton of questions about writing right now. I've felt my inadequecies as a writer in lots of genres this week. I've realized how very much I can learn about being a writer and how great that will be for my students.

I like how our SWG works. Sometimes we don't have enough time for each member's writing. But, I really think it's a matter of time management more than not enough time. I think our group is respectful of each other and I appreciate the blessings and pressings that have come my way this week.

I am totally not fishing, okay? I am a reader who writes only to communicate, analyze, or critique. This institute both intimidates and inspires me--even if my writing is not exactly reflective of the latter (I'm still not fishing.).

Insights about what has made this week so successful: Casey, Janet, and Keri.