Since I couldn't possibly attempt to summarize everything that has happened during this first week, here is a list of the good, the bad and the ugly that I have learned about teaching, Togiak and everything in between:

1.) Keleher easily becomes Kela- wig to first and second graders. If they can't get that? Then I am just 'teacher.'
2.) If one kid pees down the slide, prioritize making sure it gets cleaned up. Their are still kids in other classes that need to come out for recess and therefore it cannot wait until the end of the day.
3.) My kids are not used to a structured environment. For example, doing cartwheels to line up is something I couldn't possibly imagine happening... but it happened. Always expect the unexpected.
4.) Yupik is not like learning french. It is going to be challenging but something I'm willing to do to show the kids the importance of knowing their native language.
5.) I don't mind staying until 7:00 some days... and then coming back for gym night. I love coming up with creative lesson ideas, getting to know the children and working with each of them. I've thought about this quote several times this week, 'If you do what you love, you never work a day in your life.'
6.) Apparently I look like I'm everybody's daughter... I don't mind it because it makes me feel good to be so young... but I'm sure this is a one sided feeling...
7.) You don't need to drink to have a fun time playing phrase 10 with a great group of people. Also, I am super competitive (well, that part is nothing new.)
8.) When you move into a non- dorm apartment with a kitchen, you need plates/ cups/ utensils etc.. and cleaning supplies!
9.) Going for runs is easy when you are surrounded by mountains, ocean and pure beauty.
10.) When berry picking, make sure you go with an expert on the subject. Ignorance is not worth death.  

Poll: Should I adopt the black lab puppy that the village nurse has up for adoption? I've been weighing the pros and cons in my mind and could really use some input!

Here are some photos of my classroom. I would include the kiddos but I would never get the permission slips back...

Blackberries are in season right now- but not the blackberries you may think. They are small, black and round. They do not have much flavor so are best used in jellies, jams or pancakes.

 It is quite possible to teach a dog to pick berries! I cannot take the credit.. which means I am also not responsible for their impact on his system.

 Picking fire weed... you wouldn't want to eat them by themselves but in jelly they are pretty darn good!