Thoughts On Teaching

I’m teaching three classes this year: 8th Grade English, 9th Grade World Cultures, and History Through Film. The last one is truly an elective for mostly upperclassmen (ironically, there are more girls than guys…so upperclasspeople?). So far, so good. However, I’m coming across a few issues. The first issue is realizing how lacking these kidsContinueContinue reading “Thoughts On Teaching”

Reflection of Our Minds

9/18/24 I’m inspired to write this post based on my brother’s recent letter. He wrote, “This world we live in is but a reflection of our minds.” He went on to add that I should create a world I want. I liked his particular phrasing as it reminded me that the world is unique forContinueContinue reading “Reflection of Our Minds”

Unveiling Creativity: Writing Beyond Alcohol Influence

I once wrote, “To be a writer, one must be an alcoholic.” For a long time, my strategy was to drink and write. From high school to when I turned 21, I wrote sober. Once I introduced alcohol, my writing changed. Or, maybe the writing didn’t change, but I did. I’m thirty-one now and IContinueContinue reading “Unveiling Creativity: Writing Beyond Alcohol Influence”

Celebrating Life: A Thoughtful Birthday Perspective

Subscriber Content I just got off the phone with my brother, who turns 28 today. Happy birthday, bro! We shared maybe two sentences on this subject. “Wow, dude. You’re old! Ain’t life short?” “Don’t fuckin’ talk about it.” We changed the subject to more happy topics: travel, hanging out, and his plans for the evening.ContinueContinue reading “Celebrating Life: A Thoughtful Birthday Perspective”

A New Nick in Town

The days are already crisp. I’m talking sub-50° mornings. I walk into the classroom and it feels good! But I run warm as a person. Most of my students, I imagine, are a bit chilly, especially during the first period of the day. It warms up though as the day progresses. But I really likeContinueContinue reading “A New Nick in Town”

Moving in at CVA

I’m all moved into my new apartment at Carrabassett Valley Academy. I wasn’t 100% excited about living in the dorm building with students, but I’m growing comfortable with that concept. I prefer privacy and a clear conclusion of my duties once the workday is over. I’m not sure how some of my duties will lookContinueContinue reading “Moving in at CVA”

How to Spend a Birthday in Portland

Portland can be pretty busy in the summer with tourists, so we didn’t visit as many shops. But it’s also one of the nicest times to visit. The pleasant weather allows for enjoyable outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring the beautiful parks, or taking a scenic bike ride along the river. InContinueContinue reading “How to Spend a Birthday in Portland”

Narramissic Farm Civil War Weekend

I found the best spot to sleep in all of my eleven years as a reenactor. The spot itself was solid! It was nestled between a few trees on a small rise, providing an optimal slope for sleeping. I carefully tied one side of the tent to the sturdy trees, while the other side wasContinueContinue reading “Narramissic Farm Civil War Weekend”

Cursory Glance: The Diner – Nonfiction

His arms were covered in veins of World War One trenches. The contours stuck out like a frame captured by a British spotter, showing the primary trench, maintenance trenches, and all the supporting features. His skin was tanned and almost leathery. Not leathery, but almost. His biceps were small only because he himself was aContinueContinue reading “Cursory Glance: The Diner – Nonfiction”