EDRE 5352 - Blog post #5 - "Reading as Thinking"

As a reader, I create "mind movies" in my mind's eye. This is an easier task to complete with non-academic texts. If I am reading books with characters, I create my own voices of the characters, as well as, a depiction of what they look like. If there is an actual movie out based on the book, I tend to try and read the book first as to not skew my own visions. If the characters experience confusion or difficulty, my mind movie includes facial reactions and voice changes. I bring the characters to life in my mind.

When reading texts, almost any feeling can be generated. I connect with the characters, so sadness, excitement, anger, joy, often are conjured as I engross myself into a text. While reading, I often have connections to other texts, as well as real-life events.

For me, a book is meant as an escape. I envision the characters as real-life beings, interacting. I know for many people, this does not take place, but for as long as I can remember, my imagination has allowed me to enjoy books in this manner.

EDRE 5352 - Blog Post #4 - Habits and Conditions in a Reading Life

At the moment, my current book travels around with me either in my purse or my teacher's bag. Honestly, both are open, so my book usually sticks out a bit. Also, my current book is in my passenger front seat if I am driving. During the workweek, I can sneak a reading appointment at my lunch. Usually, my little reading appointments take place during my son's martial arts class or in the evening after dinner. I read at my school desk, in my car, on my bed, and my couch. Though I want to include my current reading, my school reading often involves educational articles and data. My car is generally reserved for leisure reading unless a textbook summons me to complete homework. My couch and bed may include any previously mentioned choices, though I often read my self-help and spiritual growth books in those locations. My main challenge about being at school is wanting to read the book in my purse or teacher bag, but having to be a responsible adult and read work stuff. My family knows what I am reading right now. I have a work friend I share books with, and we have our version of a book club every few months. I welcome book recommendations from my professors and district-level administrators. For spiritual growth and self-help, I look to the sisters in my women's group and well-respected friends. If I want to read a challenging book, I read recovery and self-help. The information in those books indeed makes my brain work.

EDRE 5352 - Blog Post #3 - "Slice of Life"

"The a/c unit and circuit box are back here, " entering the back porch, from our family room sliding glass door, I direct the electrician to the back of the house. Pivoting, I catch a glimpse of the koi pond. I gasp, "oh no, oh no!"  What happened? The koi pond, usually 3.5 feet deep, now looks to have about 6 inches of water in it. The fountain is barely trickling from the top.  All my big koi are just under the surface. My butterfly girl is flicking her fins as if to grab my attention. "You have it Girl. I see."  The electrician returns to relay his initial findings and provide a quote. He notices I am distracted as I point in disbelief, confusion, and slight panic towards our 8 ft by 8 ft koi pond. Seemingly unaffected by the fate of my beautiful pond puppies, a slight solemn acknowledgment of the issue, he is more concerned about the business at hand. I quickly call my husband, who is already expecting my call when the electrician has arrived, answers matter of factly. I hurriedly tell him there's something wrong with the koi pond and the electrician has information to discuss, handing the man my phone.  I can hear the electrician exchanging pleasantries and a quick explanation, "Yah, it appears your fish pond has lost water. I see your fish swimming around....mhmm, yes, she's looking." His voice trails off as I throw the water hose into the pond, trying to refill my fishy babies' home quickly. Walking the perimeter to investigate, I spy the issue... Ah, the filter is clogged with leaves from the pecan tree nearby. Water is overflowing from the top of the barrel ever so silently. Must have been clogged most of the morning. I am so glad I am home today. What if I had been gone all day? Stop it. I am here now. Stop panicking. Scheduling the electrician for this breaker issue turned out to be a really good thing. Okay, focus. I can handle this. Peeking over the ledge, the water is rising. My koi are swimming more carefree. My heart rate is lowering. "You pups will get some spinach and banana treats as soon as Mom finishes cleaning this mess." 

In the background, "Ma'am, here is your phone. It's your husband. I'll be back on Friday."