The new school year

I have a great class this semester. It is the largest one I've ever had, but that's not what's great about it.

The students are bright, vocal, observant, and ask thoughtful questions. I would call them "engaged" except that is becoming an overused and trite word and I try to avoid such words.

Another factor making this a great semester is that I'm feeling much more confident and comfortable with the material. Even though I've used the information I'm teaching for many years, I just went about my work; I didn't think about it in this way until I began teaching LIS415.

Now as I listen to the radio, read a book, and - yes - even catalog, I'm constantly encountering different examples that are "just perfect" to include in an upcoming class.

Teaching a graduate level course was a whole new experience for me. The road was occasionally bumpy, but it's smooth for now and (to use another trite phrase) I'm enjoying the fruits of my labor.

A New Phase

It's been a very busy summer, proven by the fact I haven't posted for 2 months. Today is September 2, the Labor Day holiday and I'm preparing for class on Saturday.

As of last week, I've "retired" from 2 of my part-time jobs. Now that school is back in session and I'm working more hours at MassCat as well as leading the senior exercise class 3 times each week (up from 2), I no longer have the time to work at Springfield City Library or Donohue Group. I'll miss the camaraderie at those places, but I'll savor the shorter commutes. I'll still be presenting the occasional continuing education workshop just in case I get the urge to do some traveling.

Another reason I'm able to work less is that I'm now old enough to collect Social Security payments with no deduction for other earned income. Of course I have mixed feelings about this. I love what feels like "free" money, but isn't Social Security for old people? Fortunately, I'm healthy and active enough to enjoy the new bounty.

A good reason to continue those exercise classes.