Must Not Love Dogs

This weekend I dog sat for friends who own two Akitas and was reminded once again that I'm not a true dog lover. Now, I didn't say that I don't love dogs. I certainly understand the joy that people find in having a pet. I just know that I probably won't get a dog of my own any time soon, especially while I'm still single.
How did I arrive at this conclusion, you ask? Well, if I were honest, it's probably just the immense responsibility that a pet brings that dampens my enthusiam for owning one.
You see, pets are always dependent; they will not eventually move out on their own, and contrary to the fiction of Hollywood, animals cannot ever tell you what is wrong with them. You can't always take them where you are going. Their schedule can tend to dictate yours. The list goes on.
So does this make me selfish? Please don't misunderstand me. I like dogs, but I like them a lot more when they belong to someone else. The picture to the left is Ronin. He was one alarm clock I couldn't argue with.

A Teacher' s Appreciation

To those who may not be aware, this week is Teacher Appreciation week. I am certainly not posting this to pat myself on the back. Instead, I thought my blog was a perfect way to send a public thank you to all the teachers and professors I have had during my many years of schooling. More and more I appreciate the hours they spent preparing, grading, planning, and lecturing. So many of my teachers have influenced me in different ways; however, the one thing I'm most grateful for is how these teachers have instilled in me a love for learning and particularly a love for my field of learning. And of course, with so many good models, I believe these special teachers have greatly influenced my decision to be a teacher.

So God bless each of you who has been such a catalyst in my life.

And to all of my friends who have also chosen this wonderful profession. Keep up the good work. The rewards are far greater than we may ever know.