Haven't you always wanted to change the world? Well why don't you? Allow me to elaborate.
As kids, I'm pretty sure every one of us had one of those projects that wanted us to 'talk about what and how we could change the world for the better' - and I'm pretty sure 90% of us gave some long winded response that we would want world peace and that we would end wars and what not. Well, now as adults, we have discovered that it's really not that easy - is it? Well perhaps world peace is out of our reach, but heck, anyone can change the world, but I think we look past that much too often.
You're probably all scratching your heads, thinking "What is this quack talking about?" But really, it's so easy that I think we don't regard it as anything worth while. Now, I'm not looking to preach, but I do want to point this out - not because I'm better than anyone else, but because I've decided that this is something I strive to do from now on, and I want to share it. I suppose I should actually say what I'm getting at, and stop beating around the bush - and before I start losing readers.
So the 'secret' to changing the world? It can be as simple as a smile at some stranger across the street. And that's the honest to God's truth. Say hello to someone on the street, take interest in something or someone who you never thought was worth your time. Teach someone something new, read a book to a kid.
And now I'm sure people are looking at this post, and are about to scrap it,and go to the next blog - but I'm not talking out of my ass - I'm actually serious. Think about it, perhaps your smile could cause someone to have a good day, which in turn they will pass on. Even if they don't, you still changed the little piece of the world that's around you. At least I think that's how we should look at it.
Now I'm sure you're asking yourself what struck me on the head to think this and write it out, and really, it's simple. I have a good friend, and apparently, teaching her how to cook changed how she feels about herself, for the better of course. Now, she's happily sharing this knowledge with other people by feeding them good, home made food :) To me, that's something to be proud of, because I feel like I changed the world just a little bit - but maybe that's just me, and maybe my ideas are skewed, but really, if you think about it, it's nice to think that maybe the nice things we do for one another really does put a dent in how the world spins - though I guess we'll never know!
Food for thought <3
A bientot!
Rebecca
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Monday, January 10, 2011
After Two Years... It's About Time For An Update
Holy Wow - I can't believe that I haven't written in here for over 2 years! Actually, I can. And I know that I have thought about updating this thing, and never got around to it - so that's my own fault.
You know, as a kid, your parents are always telling you how life just flies by and you think they are insane - there is no way that time flies when it seems like the days last forever, and the time on the clock only refers to the times you wake up or are supposed to be in bed. And on the odd occasion, to watch something on TV - because it's your favourite show. Other than that, you just can't wait to grow up, and you can't wait to start your life. Live on your own, make your own decisions, no more curfew, and all that. It's not really until you're finished post secondary and have your own kids that you realize that your parents weren't crazy and that life really does fly by in the blink of an eye! Just another kick in the butt... parents are almost always right XD
So that being said, It's almost been 2 years since my little Sephora has been here, and I'll tell you, nothing in my life has flown by as fast as watching her grow up! It's something that you don't really think about when they are first born, but I'll say, after the first 3 months, someone hits the fast forward on life, and I doubt that is ever going to turn off now. Oh well, that's alright, I'm learning something new everyday with her, and just watching her learn and seeing how smart she is is mind boggling! People really underestimate children - they are a lot smarter than people allow them to be. I also don't think it has anything to do with certain children being 'gifted' - but how they are raised. I keep the TV off in the mornings, we read, put puzzles together, sing songs, and now that she's a little older, we'll start making crafts. At 20 months, she can say certain words in English, and Spanish (thanks to Dora the Explorer) - not too bad for a toddler. I plan to have her learning some Italian too, and of course, French is part of her future, so long as she is in school in Canada, or so I hope. I'm not sure how the Western Provinces fair with French, but I hope it's better than worse. Either way, back on topic, children are a lot smarter than we give them credit for, and I plan to be one of the people that prove that.
Does it ever feel nice to speak my mind in this blog again! It's been way too long. Now that Sephora is older, I have a little more time to myself when she's playing on her own (which is always a riot to watch! It's amazing how she understands herself - I wish I could understand her more!), I can write a little more often on here. I have a whole post set out in my mind, but I think I'll save that one for another day :) I think all I said here is an ear full, and I know I'll be back more often now, so I might as well save my thoughts for then :)
A Bientot!
Rebecca
You know, as a kid, your parents are always telling you how life just flies by and you think they are insane - there is no way that time flies when it seems like the days last forever, and the time on the clock only refers to the times you wake up or are supposed to be in bed. And on the odd occasion, to watch something on TV - because it's your favourite show. Other than that, you just can't wait to grow up, and you can't wait to start your life. Live on your own, make your own decisions, no more curfew, and all that. It's not really until you're finished post secondary and have your own kids that you realize that your parents weren't crazy and that life really does fly by in the blink of an eye! Just another kick in the butt... parents are almost always right XD
So that being said, It's almost been 2 years since my little Sephora has been here, and I'll tell you, nothing in my life has flown by as fast as watching her grow up! It's something that you don't really think about when they are first born, but I'll say, after the first 3 months, someone hits the fast forward on life, and I doubt that is ever going to turn off now. Oh well, that's alright, I'm learning something new everyday with her, and just watching her learn and seeing how smart she is is mind boggling! People really underestimate children - they are a lot smarter than people allow them to be. I also don't think it has anything to do with certain children being 'gifted' - but how they are raised. I keep the TV off in the mornings, we read, put puzzles together, sing songs, and now that she's a little older, we'll start making crafts. At 20 months, she can say certain words in English, and Spanish (thanks to Dora the Explorer) - not too bad for a toddler. I plan to have her learning some Italian too, and of course, French is part of her future, so long as she is in school in Canada, or so I hope. I'm not sure how the Western Provinces fair with French, but I hope it's better than worse. Either way, back on topic, children are a lot smarter than we give them credit for, and I plan to be one of the people that prove that.
Does it ever feel nice to speak my mind in this blog again! It's been way too long. Now that Sephora is older, I have a little more time to myself when she's playing on her own (which is always a riot to watch! It's amazing how she understands herself - I wish I could understand her more!), I can write a little more often on here. I have a whole post set out in my mind, but I think I'll save that one for another day :) I think all I said here is an ear full, and I know I'll be back more often now, so I might as well save my thoughts for then :)
A Bientot!
Rebecca
Monday, December 1, 2008
-Baby Bubbles-
Well, I think, that as of exactly 4:00pm this afternoon, I have officially felt the baby move inside me! I'm not sure if it was the way I was sitting or what, but it felt different. More different than anything I ever felt before! So that's my best guess. What an exciting feeling! I can't wait! Only 155 more days, or 23 more weeks :D
A Bientot!
Rebecca
A Bientot!
Rebecca
Thursday, November 20, 2008
With Arms Wide Open
Well, if you haven't seen the Widget or been informed by the all knowing Facebook, then here it is. Josh and I will be having a little bundle of joy in the very near future. That's right! We are due on the 5th of May, and very excited :D
I'll have to say, the first few weeks were tough, it was hard to believe, but now, it's just a way of life :) I really can't wait to meet the little bugger who is going to be beating me up from the inside for the next 6 ish months. A cool feeling to be honest, very cool, and for that, I'm really grateful that I'm a girl :) Something wonderful to experience for the next few months, then a little wonder that we get to take care of :) It's going to be wonderful!
Anyways, I'm hoping to have time in the next few months to keep this blog updated with my little wonder growing inside me. It's going to be quite the story book :)
Up to date, I have had 3 doctor's appointments so far, and one ultrasound, which was pretty cool... it looked like a little alien, and it even waved :) Pretty cool. I'm looking forward to the next ultrasound at 20 weeks, that's going to be awesome! It's going to look more like a person I think, and less like an alien. *crosses fingers for all to be well* Yesterday we listened to it's heart beat and that was pretty awesome too. It wouldn't sit still long enough, at first, to get the beats per minute down, do that made me laugh pretty hard... which didn't help the doctor ^_^; Still pretty awesome.
So... Here begins the journey of the rest of our lives, so we're going to bulk up, hang tight and take life as it comes. I love the adventure!
Back with more updates again soon!
Rebecca
I'll have to say, the first few weeks were tough, it was hard to believe, but now, it's just a way of life :) I really can't wait to meet the little bugger who is going to be beating me up from the inside for the next 6 ish months. A cool feeling to be honest, very cool, and for that, I'm really grateful that I'm a girl :) Something wonderful to experience for the next few months, then a little wonder that we get to take care of :) It's going to be wonderful!
Anyways, I'm hoping to have time in the next few months to keep this blog updated with my little wonder growing inside me. It's going to be quite the story book :)
Up to date, I have had 3 doctor's appointments so far, and one ultrasound, which was pretty cool... it looked like a little alien, and it even waved :) Pretty cool. I'm looking forward to the next ultrasound at 20 weeks, that's going to be awesome! It's going to look more like a person I think, and less like an alien. *crosses fingers for all to be well* Yesterday we listened to it's heart beat and that was pretty awesome too. It wouldn't sit still long enough, at first, to get the beats per minute down, do that made me laugh pretty hard... which didn't help the doctor ^_^; Still pretty awesome.
So... Here begins the journey of the rest of our lives, so we're going to bulk up, hang tight and take life as it comes. I love the adventure!
Back with more updates again soon!
Rebecca
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
I want to change the world
There is something about changing the world that has always intrigued me, even as a child. I hope one day, something I do will change the world, even if it is only one person at a time. I hope I can make a change for a better tomorrow.
See more progress on: change the world
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
"I Am NOT That Student!"
You know one of the things that drives me up a hill, over the bend and into a tailspin of displeasure? Teachers that feel that all students are lazy, not motivated, and for lack of a better word, drones.
I seriously take offense to that, and continue to disagree and fight to prove that stereotype wrong. I can't see why, for a few students 'acting out' that all students would have the title of 'slackers'. I've taught before, grade 4s to be exact, and I'll tell you now, I had 2 little hellions, well at least when they were together. They were both given previous titles, such as 'ADHD' or 'other behavior issues', (which is another topic which I this is used incorrectly and could go on and on about, but won't, at least not here.) and I think it may have gone to those poor kids heads, almost like a mini ego that has been encouraged. Whatever it may be, I dealt with the two of them in the best manner that I knew possible, and by the end of the year, I had managed to gain some of their respect, which I find a big accomplishment. That aside though, in no way did I treat the rest of the class as mischief makers. Not in the least. So if someone can gain 4th graders respect, then why not post secondary students too? Maybe they aren't prepared for it, maybe they aren't in sync with themselves, it's hard to say. I was once told that it's because the teachers who have been around that long have been in so many words, 'jaded'. I don't think that this should be an excuse. Look at it this way, just because you fell off your bike, 5, 6, 7 or even more times, doesn't mean that you should never ride your bike again. It means that you look back at the cuts, scars, bruises and bumps, when you can finally bike down the street, and say, "Look at how I got here, I made it." I think that's the way it should be. Not looking at the 'lazy' ones and make them decide how your career is going to go, but you do let them influence how to be better next time. Again, with the bike analogy, if you sit on the bike backwards and fall off, and don't learn from your mistakes, then you don't learn. You can't fix your mistakes and make yourself better next time, and that's how we get 'jaded' or 'hardened' so quickly. Maybe sometimes teachers forget that they are still human (despite what we all thought in elementary school), and they can still learn and be taught, especially by students, and I think they forget that. Well, not so much that they can learn, because they all attend PD events, but who knows, maybe they don't actually take anything away, I'm not sure, I'm not a teacher, so I can't judge them. However, I can, and have the right, to demand that they work on realizing that all students are not the same, and that there are many more that want to learn than don't.
As I think more about PD, I sometime reflect back to when I attended my local church's youth group, and the one or two weekend retreats I took. Professional Development is a lot like that. Let me explain though...
When a someone goes to a religious retreat, they get together will all sorts of other people who have the same beliefs and thoughts that you do. You listen to music, and pray and readings and that and by the time the weekend is done, you're completely stoked, ready to hit the world and take everyone on. Then, after about a week or two of coming back into reality, most people give up, and go back to how they were at the beginning, falling into their old pattern of methodologies and what not. I think this may be the same thing with PD. Some teachers come back stoked, but lose the flame quickly, but others keep the flame going. These teachers that do so are the ones that students adore and enjoy, as well as the ones that end up with nominations.
I guess that's just my take on things, as a student. I think that teachers should be more open and caring to their students, and they would see that their students are more than happy to do what they have to and get their work done, leading to a very happy environment that benefits both students and teachers. I would also like to mention that this spiel isn't aimed all teachers, because that would be hypocritical of me. I'm just trying to point out my opinion on how things could be so much easier for everyone if everyone just took the time... though I know that's asking a lot. Again, this is just my opinion as a student, and I felt it was worth giving out. Hopefully it ends up being somewhat insightful, and less of a rant. :)
A bientot!
Rebecca
I seriously take offense to that, and continue to disagree and fight to prove that stereotype wrong. I can't see why, for a few students 'acting out' that all students would have the title of 'slackers'. I've taught before, grade 4s to be exact, and I'll tell you now, I had 2 little hellions, well at least when they were together. They were both given previous titles, such as 'ADHD' or 'other behavior issues', (which is another topic which I this is used incorrectly and could go on and on about, but won't, at least not here.) and I think it may have gone to those poor kids heads, almost like a mini ego that has been encouraged. Whatever it may be, I dealt with the two of them in the best manner that I knew possible, and by the end of the year, I had managed to gain some of their respect, which I find a big accomplishment. That aside though, in no way did I treat the rest of the class as mischief makers. Not in the least. So if someone can gain 4th graders respect, then why not post secondary students too? Maybe they aren't prepared for it, maybe they aren't in sync with themselves, it's hard to say. I was once told that it's because the teachers who have been around that long have been in so many words, 'jaded'. I don't think that this should be an excuse. Look at it this way, just because you fell off your bike, 5, 6, 7 or even more times, doesn't mean that you should never ride your bike again. It means that you look back at the cuts, scars, bruises and bumps, when you can finally bike down the street, and say, "Look at how I got here, I made it." I think that's the way it should be. Not looking at the 'lazy' ones and make them decide how your career is going to go, but you do let them influence how to be better next time. Again, with the bike analogy, if you sit on the bike backwards and fall off, and don't learn from your mistakes, then you don't learn. You can't fix your mistakes and make yourself better next time, and that's how we get 'jaded' or 'hardened' so quickly. Maybe sometimes teachers forget that they are still human (despite what we all thought in elementary school), and they can still learn and be taught, especially by students, and I think they forget that. Well, not so much that they can learn, because they all attend PD events, but who knows, maybe they don't actually take anything away, I'm not sure, I'm not a teacher, so I can't judge them. However, I can, and have the right, to demand that they work on realizing that all students are not the same, and that there are many more that want to learn than don't.
As I think more about PD, I sometime reflect back to when I attended my local church's youth group, and the one or two weekend retreats I took. Professional Development is a lot like that. Let me explain though...
When a someone goes to a religious retreat, they get together will all sorts of other people who have the same beliefs and thoughts that you do. You listen to music, and pray and readings and that and by the time the weekend is done, you're completely stoked, ready to hit the world and take everyone on. Then, after about a week or two of coming back into reality, most people give up, and go back to how they were at the beginning, falling into their old pattern of methodologies and what not. I think this may be the same thing with PD. Some teachers come back stoked, but lose the flame quickly, but others keep the flame going. These teachers that do so are the ones that students adore and enjoy, as well as the ones that end up with nominations.
I guess that's just my take on things, as a student. I think that teachers should be more open and caring to their students, and they would see that their students are more than happy to do what they have to and get their work done, leading to a very happy environment that benefits both students and teachers. I would also like to mention that this spiel isn't aimed all teachers, because that would be hypocritical of me. I'm just trying to point out my opinion on how things could be so much easier for everyone if everyone just took the time... though I know that's asking a lot. Again, this is just my opinion as a student, and I felt it was worth giving out. Hopefully it ends up being somewhat insightful, and less of a rant. :)
A bientot!
Rebecca
Monday, April 28, 2008
Dalhousie Pre-Workshop Thoughts - Student Learning
On Wednesday and Thursday of this week (April 30, May 1), I'll be attending the Dalhousie conference about student learning. I was asked to write up a my thoughts and reasoning for going prior to attending this event.
I feel that, as a student attending this kind of conference, I might be able to take away from it, the reasons teachers teach as they do, and perhaps, put in some input with a student's perspective as it is about student learning. Because each teacher has their own teaching style, and each student had their own learning style, it is important to talk about it. I feel as a student, I might be able to take away more understanding of the teaching methods and how to perhaps make it better, and easier to learn from.
As well as personal learning from this experience, I think that this conference will come in to good use while preparing the BUSI2750 (Intro to Business for IT Professionals) online course, as well as putting together the Women Unlimited Workshop. As a contributor to both these activities, I feel that it would help me be more productive as I will be more informed on successful and innovative teaching ideas and styles.
All in all, I'm really looking forward to the next 2 days, and plan on giving back to my peers with the same enthusiasm as the speakers over the span of this conference.
A bientot!
Rebecca
I feel that, as a student attending this kind of conference, I might be able to take away from it, the reasons teachers teach as they do, and perhaps, put in some input with a student's perspective as it is about student learning. Because each teacher has their own teaching style, and each student had their own learning style, it is important to talk about it. I feel as a student, I might be able to take away more understanding of the teaching methods and how to perhaps make it better, and easier to learn from.
As well as personal learning from this experience, I think that this conference will come in to good use while preparing the BUSI2750 (Intro to Business for IT Professionals) online course, as well as putting together the Women Unlimited Workshop. As a contributor to both these activities, I feel that it would help me be more productive as I will be more informed on successful and innovative teaching ideas and styles.
All in all, I'm really looking forward to the next 2 days, and plan on giving back to my peers with the same enthusiasm as the speakers over the span of this conference.
A bientot!
Rebecca
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