The past few days were spent at McMenamin's Grand Lodge at a LFEE conference. I won't go into details, but I will say this: it was an interesting mix of really fantastic discussion about equity (concerning race, SES, and culture) and really uncomfortable "sharing of feelings"-type group hug stuff. And yes, there really was a group hug at the end. My discomfort with personal contact alone were enough to make me cringe, but add in H1N1 and I was practically having a panic attack. However, it was very validating to see how far along MACA is, especially considering we're only in our third year. Basically, we rock. Go Hellbenders!

In other news, and partially sparked by discussions at LFEE, I'm having issues dealing with my past culture and the culture I belong to now. And issues deciding what/who I want to leave behind and what I want to continue dealing with. Am I a coward/weak if I go one way? Do I have an obligation to make a certain choice over another? Am I part of the problem or the solution? What am I doing to better myself and other people - and is it doing any good? *sigh*

Hi!
The weather has turned a little colder. I'm so happy!

My shoulder froze up again, sadly. The in-laws have definitely come in handy yet again... I had run out of Valium.

Total drama with some kids at school is keeping me busy. Whilst snooping this afternoon Liz and I ran into some students downtown (totally skipping) - and instead of avoiding us they came by to say hi. Sometimes, after having such a fun and kooky conversation with students outside school, I feel guilty when I turn them in later... but something tells me they knew it would happen anyway. Plus, I don't think they could hate me.

Did a lot of talking again about condoms and sex and douching and all sorts of nastiness today. Taught the kids how to roll a condom. As one friend puts it, "You're definitely not teaching in a Utah school." No doubt, thank goodness. Studies show that kids will start having sex at the same age regardless, but that if they've had decent education about it they'll have lower pregnancy/STD rates. It's a tricky subject to teach, so I give plenty of disclaimers and I choose my words carefully... but it's nice to feel I might actually be doing a service to humanity in some small way.

Hubby makes the best dinners!

I'm terrified of swine flu. I need to get both the shots. There's kids at school whose family members are being diagnosed. It's totally hitting us. I'm terrified. !!!

Last week I went to see my grandparents. I also saw my aunt and took a day trip to Yellowstone. It was such a nice trip, regardless of the 30 hours I spent in the car (hence my shoulder). Also, I saw one of my oldest friends, Ariane, in Boise. Such great times were had by all! I posted pics to my flickr account. :)