Mid-Semester

With it being roughly mid-semester, it is assumed that I would have a stack of "midterms" on my plate. But no, just one. Normally that should be something to be ecstatic about. My exams have not fallen in the same week, let alone same day. But why, oh why, do I always have an exam on November first!? Freshman year I took a Cultural Geography class that had a midterm scheduled for the day after Halloween. Last year, I believe my Spanish 102 class had a test. Although, we may have talked our teacher out of it... I don't quite remember. But I know for sure I didn't get dressed up with friends like most people are doing right now. And tonight, I sit on the floor frantically studying Astronomy. Well, right now I am procrastinating, obviously. But I do intend on finishing this up to continue my study session. I was talking to James about this earlier today and we both decided that we would not do that to our hypothetical students. While scheduling it for that day may just work with the calendar or they are making a statement about people going out for Halloween, I don't see the students getting the best results on this exam. As a teacher, I want my students to succeed. And of course I would be thrilled if they chose studying all day and night to going out with their friends dressed up in costumes. But the reality is most college students choose the latter. I would like my students to make good choices and be prepared for their exams. And put their midterm on October 29th or November 2nd.

Tomorrow begins my Christmas season. Yes, my Christmas season lasts two months long.

Goodnight, and Happy Halloween.

Fire Update

We are still OK. The fires are growing. But there have been so many good efforts going on. My school is closed for the rest of the week. I just want to share a few more photos I have found online from around San Diego County.









Here are the same links from my previous post:
Craigslist

Google Fire Map from KPBS

News 8 San Diego Maps

Southern California Fires

Just so you know, as of now, at 12:31pm on Monday October 22, 2007... I am fine! I am worried about these fires, though. My roommate and I are in the midst of packing a bag in case we are told to evacuate. We're thinking.. hmm.. Arizona sounds nice. Some Cracker Barrel for lunch or dinner... That seems to be the only direction we could go... East. But honestly, if we do get evacuated, we'll be going to Qualcomm stadium, where I just played for a football game not even two full days ago. PLEASE keep Southern California in your thoughts and prayers.




































This last photo is of Stephanie's dorm. She goes to Pepperdine University and they're in more danger than me. But she is at home in Bakersfield for now...




This is also very inspiring. Craigslist for good things? Who knew.

Here is a google map of the fires. I am near the Qualcomm Stadium evacuation center.

And here are some maps from the live coverage I've been watching all day.