Thanksgiving News From Megan

[from: Megan Thurston]

Hello everyone!

Well, it has been an age since I've written, I think. I say "age" because my students and I are on a Tolkien kick. We're reading The Hobbit and will be reading the Lord of the Rings Trilogy . Hopefully they are as prepared as they think they are! They seem to be enjoying the fantasy aspect…most of them are. For my poorer readers, it has been a little daunting, but they haven't given up and that makes me very happy.

Right now it is my break. I have a break every morning from 9-10. I should be finishing my grades, but it is so boring and slightly depressing! It is much more fun to write a note, drink some cocoa, and listen to Christmas music on my TV. My dogs are playing in the living room, except Sally who is sitting right next to me. My puppies have been very mature lately. No books, DVDs, CDs, or furniture has been chewed on for over a week, nor has there been any messes on the floor. It is indescribable how wonderful that is. I pray it continues. A friend, Kelli Wilson, has been helping me walk them in the afternoon after I get back from driving the bus. Kelli is our first grade teacher. She walks Sally while I walk Buddy and Barkley. Cassie, the tripod, isn't put on a leash unless she is in town. Her stopping and going is too much of a nuisance for her to be on a leash.

Well, now it is Wednesday. My students and I are almost finished reading The Hobbit. Next they will have to write a five paragraph essay about it. Reading, thinking, and writing…what a dangerous and daunting proposition!

We are definitely ready for a little break. I think school on Monday will be much more interesting than a normal Monday! I also hope that some students think about how much they really do like school and won't do anything foolish to jeopardize their position here. A high schooler was suspended yesterday for coming to school drunk. His dad is working and not at home, so U. drives himself to a bus stop or to school. So, he drove himself to school while he was under the influence! Our school is his last chance since he has already been kicked out of some public schools, kicked out for alcohol and drug use. Please pray for him and his father. Aside from that, school is going along normally. I am seeing tpyical amounts of affection and disrespect from the students. Yes, disrespect. Remember I teach teenagers!

I have a lot to be thankful for…plenty of wood for my stove, dogs that are growing up, classroom work that is getting done, junior high students that are getting excited about basketball and the holidays, and of course all the people that support me!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving, love, megan