In my free time...

Here are some things I do in my free time:

1.  Religious Education Teacher (formerly known as CCD Teacher).  I am currently teaching 7th graders, which is a challenge to say the least because most of them have no interest in what I am saying.  I do this because I feel it is important for children to have a strong sense of faith in their life and because I believe some day they will realize how important it was for them to make their sacraments.  Plus, every time one of them gives a profound answer in class, I know I'm doing it for the right reasons.
2. Parent Representative for the Special Education Advisory Committee for our school.  My triplets were born 11 weeks premature and as is often the case for preemies, have been playing catch up in some areas ever since.  When I was a kid, all children with any type of special needs were clumped into one class.  In Linden (where I grew up) it was informally called The "Blake' Class - I'm not exactly sure why, so if anyone reading knows, I'd love to hear your comments.  Although our educational system is not perfect today, at least we realize there are too many different types of special ed needs to throw everyone together and hope for the best.  And special ed does NOT mean that a kid is dumb or slow, some children learn differently, or at their own pace, and we need to nurture them so that they can blossom to their full potential on their own terms.
3. Co-Leader of a Cub Scout Den.  I do this because having 3 eight year old boys of my own isn't enough, it's more fun to try to maintain order with 10 at a time, and because I talked one of the nicest women I know into co-leading with me, which eases the pain.  I believe in scouting, don't get me wrong, but it's hard to complete achievements when the boys are more interested in wrestling, arm-farting, and hitting each other with their hats.  This is another area where I am occasionally awarded by a child taking what we teach him and applying it in his life after the meeting.
4. Sleep.  I believe no explanation is needed!