Teacher Man is working from home officially this week and has taken over the kitchen counter for most of the day. Distance teaching is much more challenging and certainly a lot more time-consuming than you might even think.
It’s like being a brand-spanking-new first year teacher all over again – new lesson plans, completely new ways of doing things, with the added caveat that he can’t connect with any of his students in person. He must create both virtual lessons and paper packets for those students who request those. (Did I mention kids are also really bad at reading directions online?) And don’t even get me started on taking online attendance for up to 150 students – it’s quite cumbersome so Joe or I like to help him cross-reference lists.
Yesterday, he was checked in to school by 8 a.m. and was still working on lesson plans and answering emails at 8 p.m. last night. He certainly takes work home on a regular basis when the school year is “normal” but distance teaching takes it to a new level. I’m proud of him for trying to make it work the best he can.
In fact, while I’m at it … thank you, thank you, thank you to all the teachers creating entirely new virtual classrooms for their students!
Currently my “office” is the four-season porch because I am CRAVING light and sun and spring views. My work continues on the events we are attempting to reschedule for this summer – but it certainly ebbs and flows as I always seem to be waiting for a response on something.
Today, especially, seems a little light on work but I’m trying to roll with it as best I can. I’m not terribly good at “not working” typically … but I’ve gotten better during this pandemic about managing my expectations, giving myself grace, and sticking to the routines I can (like daily workouts!).
Also today, I put on a new top from J.Jill that I had purchased back in February in hopes of wearing it to one of my events this spring, which were subsequently cancelled. It feels really good to have some spring color on — and to move away from the three t-shirts and hoodies I’ve had on rotation for the past week. 😉
It’s the little joys, friends. Right?
xoxo – Lara