Wha -->Thousand

January Summary: 120.6 mi

2012-01-31T16:06:00.000-08:00

120.6 miles ran this month.

That works out to about 30 miles a week. I decided to come home and challenge the couch to another run. Actually I wanted to pick up Abby again. I needed 5.5 miles to round off January to 120.

I ran the Melton Lake Greenway to Emory Valley Greenway and back around to Melton again. So tonight I ran 6.1 miles.

It was a good time.

Melton -> Emory Valley: 5.95 mi

2012-01-30T17:55:00.000-08:00

Today, on the way home I realized that I should pick up the little lab Abby. The problem was, the moment I got home I felt the sticky web-like effect that made it really hard to get out. I did make it after a bit. We ran from China (Chinese restaurant) on Melton Lake and crossed over to the Emory Valley Greenway. We ran and ran.

As we crossed a little over half way Tony drove up beside us. It was pretty cool. He and I carried on a conversation for a couple of minutes. Abby and I had a great time.

Frosty Shoulders and Morning Revelations: 3.38 mi

2012-01-29T07:10:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up a little late. I had plans to run to Panera to meet Tony. I briefly thought, "I'll just meet him there." Immediately I remembered my personal philosophy of "There is no tomorrow." It's mostly about confronting my own excuses. I figured, even if I'm late, or Tony has to pick me up on the way, a mile is a mile. So, I figured I had roughly 45 minutes to run if I hurried. I left a disappointed dog, and went to run. It was 24 degrees out so I wore my tights, and started slow (Red Robin burger-binge last night). I felt the pressure as I ran, and was uncomfortable trying to beat the clock. After a couple of miles I started to feel better, having conquered my mental blocks. I called Tony at 7:47 and let him know where I was, and that it would be cool if he picked me up. Another 15 minutes, or no Red Robin, and I would have made it.

Tony and I had a great talk about education, had some revelations about my life as I ran, and am now back home. Not a bad way to start the day.

I am blessed in every way, and thank the Lord for my life.

31 miles this week.

Day off + Bald Eagle: 5 mi

2012-01-27T07:40:00.000-08:00

I decided earlier on in the week to take today off. I needed a break from the norm, and thought it would be nice to have a mental-health day. I went to bed at a decent hour so that I could get up and go for a run. Got up at eight and headed out.

Abby was totally rearing to go. We had the lake to ourselves (Melton Lake Greenway). It was a beautiful morning. On the way back I looked up and saw an amazing sight. A bald eagle. We stopped and watched it circle the near by waters for about five minutes. I smiled as I ran the remaining mile and a half.

There is no tomorrow: 3.5 mi

2012-01-26T15:00:00.000-08:00

Today it was 64 degrees and rainy. I thought for a moment about skipping my daily run. I realized quickly that postponing the run with thoughts of doing it tomorrow is failure. If I plan to not run that is one thing, but to not run simply because I don't feel like it is a horse of a different color.

I ran, in the rain, got saturated, and loved it.
Today I did something I never thought I could ever do, this month I've run over 100 miles.

64 Degrees: 7 mi

2012-01-25T14:21:00.001-08:00

Ran 5 miles this afternoon.

Walked two with Pamela this evening.

62 degrees: 5 Mi

2012-01-24T14:46:00.000-08:00

Distance: 7 mi

2012-01-23T15:57:00.000-08:00

Decided to take advantage of the 62 (Vista like) temperatures and stretched the run out a bit. I ran the entire length of Melton Lake Greenway. It was very nice out. Seven miles seems pretty long. Think I'll try to keep it around five miles per run for the rest of the week.

I've been trying to do a long run once a week.

Word.

Week 3 Results

2012-01-22T06:54:00.000-08:00

Week 3 = 26 miles
That's 77.6 miles so far this month.

I've got a feeling I'm going to make my goal of 83 miles this month.
I was thinking it'd be cool to make it to 100.

Word.

Sunday Morning Miles: 5 mi

2012-01-22T06:47:00.000-08:00

Tony wasn't feeling too well, so we decided not to meet. This meant that I had the morning to run where ever and as long as I wanted. Again, I had the idea to run to Starbucks, or Panera, but ultimately I decided not to run to a place where I would eat, and drink, and have to run back. I opted to run from the Elza Gate Park to mile marker 2.50 on Melton Lake and back. A nice five mile run seemed just what the doctor ordered. Abby was happy to come along.

Abby 5k: 3 mi

2012-01-21T18:22:00.000-08:00

Just figured out that a 5k was actually 3 miles. Wanted to go for a distance run today, but school just wore me out. Napped when I got home, ate meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Didn't feel like going, but knew if I did I'd feel better. As I got ready to go Abby got all kinds of excited. Her face was all full of desire. So cute.

It was tough at first, but started feeling great after a mile or two.

Word.

Stress: 4 mi

2012-01-20T13:56:00.000-08:00

Been stressed out this week, and I know I'll feel better after class on Saturday.
I wasn't able to run yesterday due to the fact that there was so much to do. I figured I'd be fine, but didn't know what kind of resistance I'd face today.
Turns out, I was all good. I didn't need a jacket of any kind, and I had a smooth run. My body seems that it enjoyed the day off. This is something that I'm going to have to play with. Taking days off is important, but this early in the game it's tough to know.

Multi-tasking: 4 mi

2012-01-18T14:20:00.000-08:00

Today's outline.

Teacher --> Runner --> Husband --> Mechanic --> Student

Due to the fact that I've got so much going on today I
felt a bit under pressure as I ran, but had a good one.
For a moment I thought about changing up the order, and
putting "Runner" behind "Mechanic," but I knew I'd have
more resistance with running at night.

Word.

Rain-Run: 4 mi

2012-01-17T16:16:00.000-08:00

Ran in the rain at Lakeshore Greenway. Totally saturated, but had a great time. Now for a hot shower. Fortunately it was 60 degrees when I started and only 58 when I finished.

3rd Monday: 5.97 mi

2012-01-16T08:25:00.000-08:00

I planned last night to make sure that I went for a decent run due to the fact that I've got the day off for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. I had set my alarm for 7:00, but that didn't really work out. I ended up getting up at 8:40, showered, checked the weather to see what kind of cold running gear I needed to wear. Weather.com said that it was 32 but felt like 29. I decided to wear the tights. Today is the third Monday that I've run on since beginning my year-long goal. Today is the first day that I felt real resistance to getting out there. I thought that it might be due to the fact that yesterday I only walked .75 miles with Pamela, and my body (mind) was enjoying the break.

Abby and I jogged the Melton Lake Greenway then cut over onto some back roads (Warehouse -->Fairbanks -->Briarcliff --> Emory Valley). This connects back up with the Emory Valley Greenway.

I must say that the last half of a mile was exhilarating. I experienced the best runner's high yet. I cranked it out feeling that I could run another lap. I didn't of course. :)

I used runkeeper.com to plot the milage.

Monday is funday.

The Lord's Day: .75 mi

2012-01-15T11:53:00.000-08:00

I've met my goal for this week. 30.6 miles. That makes a total of 51.6 miles in two weeks. Being only the second week in action for my 1000 mile goal, I am unsure about all of the different variables that I may encounter. So, I'm trying to stock up on miles just in case I've got to take a break because of weather, illness etc. That being said, in order to meet my 21 mile a week goal, I'm going to aim for 30 miles a week.

I am unsure about my ability to maintain this pace, having never done anything like this before, but that is what it's all about. I am reaching for something that is beyond personal and physical comprehension.

Also, I must add that I feel better about myself, and feel like a nicer guy.

Word.

I'd like to thank the Academy: 5.82

2012-01-14T13:10:00.000-08:00

Academy Sports took back my shoes and exchanged them with no problem. Abby and I went to Melton Lake Greenway and ran a bit farther than I had planned. The new shoes are black, and I think they definitely look cooler.

Squeaks and Ice: 4 mi

2012-01-13T13:51:00.000-08:00

A brisk run at 32 degrees. The track was icy, but ice is better than mud. Felt really good to run this afternoon.

I noticed that my right shoe has started to squeak. I bought my Asics 2160s on 12/05 with my birthday money, and have traveled 72 miles in them. I have noticed a slight difference in the shoes after my 8 mile run on Monday.

Could it be that I am better understanding the performance of a running shoe?
After googeling it I realized that it's probably a puncture in an air pocket.
Academy Sports offers a "no hassle" returns policy, and there's a pair waiting for an exchange tomorrow for me.

We shall see.

4 mi

2012-01-12T13:38:00.000-08:00

Today I just barely beat the rain. As I walked to my car the rain started coming down.
Picked up 4 big ones.

4 mi

2012-01-11T14:09:00.000-08:00

Today it rained and hailed hard. I asked my students, "how am I supposed to exercise today?" Turns out, it stopped raining and hailing around 3, so I was all good. I ran for one hour and traveled four miles.
Word.

4 mi

2012-01-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

In the wake of my 8 miles yesterday I decided to take it a bit easier today.
Got 4 miles in.

Lakeshore Greenway: 8 mi.

2012-01-09T16:55:00.000-08:00

I had planned on running today at the track on the way home from school, but Pamela needed me to run an errand for her. Immediately I saw an opportunity to run down at the Lakeshore greenway. It's built around an old insane asylum, but is quite beautiful.

I discovered that each lap around the premises was two miles. I thought, "I'll run two, and call it a day." After two I thought, "One more and it'll be six miles!" After three I thought, "One more and it'll be eight!!!" I decided to make the last lap my cool-down, switching from jogging to walking.

Broke several of my records.

Week 1 = 21 miles = Goal met.

2012-01-08T12:13:00.000-08:00

I meet with my friend Tony on Sunday mornings for coffee. We go to Panera bread for coffee and company. He said that he would pick me up at our usual 8:00 AM and we'd go from there. I decided late last night that it would be awesome to get up early, and run to his house. My goal was to be there by 8, so I left the house at 6:38. It was a brisk 42 degrees out, so I suited up, and headed out. It's just over 5 miles to his place from our house. I made it right on time.

After adding this activity to my RunKeeper website I discovered that I needed exactly .5 miles to meet my goal of 21 miles this week. After church Pamela and I decided to get a Starbucks. On the way home from Starbucks is the .5 mile paved loop track I run on when I am on my way home from CBE. I mentioned that we could walk a lap, and Pamela was game. Ahhh. It felt so good to make the first week's goal.

Week 2 begins tomorrow.

01/07

2012-01-07T12:59:00.000-08:00

So far this week I've run 15.4 miles. Need to pull 5.6 more by Monday. Walk in the park.

A goal beyond knowing.

2012-01-07T12:16:00.001-08:00

Ok, so starting in December I started thinking about setting a running goal for myself for 2012. I toyed with numbers, divided by month / week / with some sort of idea about being realistic. Originally I decided on 500 miles, divided by 12 = 42 miles a month, divided by 4 = 10.5 miles a week = No problem. Last month through various exercising activities (running, walking, biking) I met the 40 mile goal with relative ease.

With this new goal of 1000 miles I'll have to double that. Hmmm. 1000/12 = 83 miles a month. 83/4 = 21 miles a week. I figure I'm going to have to run at least 5 times a week; just over a 4 mile run a day.

Can I do this? Really, I don't know. I do know, however, that it never hurts to set a goal that extends beyond knowing.

I'll be blogging on my progress here, and keeping track of my mileage on www.runkeeper.com.

Word.

Fountain of Terror

2011-10-25T13:52:00.000-07:00

As I went to get a drink I heard a gurgling growl
Underneath the drinking fountain lives something horrible and foul
It swiped at my leg and let out a nasty scream
“You must ask permission to drink from my stream!”
I’ve heard trolls under bridges, and giants in the mountains
But never of fourth graders who live under drinking fountains

All Hallows

2011-10-23T16:17:00.000-07:00

Autumnal time that calls us near
To prowl about and without fear
Of pitchforks, torches, guns and spears
So howl at moons and scream three cheers
All Hallows eve will soon be here!

Removed

2011-04-01T20:50:00.001-07:00

Can't find my moleskin (this strikes deep fear into my heart) so here it goes.

Right now I feel far away. I've been delving into deep feelings of finding truth,
honesty, and celebration of life, and feel the opposite. Tonight I had the
unique opportunity to see Pamela play jazz combined with poetry readings
by some amazing women. It was an extreme struggle to get to there, park,
and find a spot to see the performance (standing room only). As the
performance was going on I could see myself standing there trying to
enjoy an experience, yet not even able to come close. I was standing there
in the back confronted with the fact that I am so far away from those things
that I've been striving for. Who really cares about all of these goals on the
infinite horizon if I can't even enjoy the process.

I saw this guy with his family taking pictures of the performance, and felt
like I was watching from behind my own camera, removed.

Man! I hate that feeling. I know that this post will draw people to comment
things like, "Hang in there man," or "There is a light in the tunnel ahead."
Well, the truth of the matter is that there will always be a new goal, struggle
tiring job, long day. I want to enjoy every minute despite my pursuits.

Word.

Seeking the Cause

2011-03-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

I happened upon this movie "Pinero" staring Benjamin Bratt a couple of months ago. It's pretty harsh, yet totally amazing. Here's a scene of Miguel Pinero's poem "Seeking the Cause."

Howl

2011-03-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

Recently I have become a fan of Revolution Books / Libros Revolucion L.A. having seen a link posted by Obey. I browsed their book selection (online) and liked some of the titles and authors that I saw, was challenged by others, and most I had no idea. When confronted with the book selections that I was not necessarily comfortable with, I realized that this is what books are all about. Perspectives that challenge, shape, and add to our own point of view, and ultimately our sense of self. I was introduced to Eric Drooker because the book store was having him appear to do a book signing. I was immediately taken with Drooker's art, and perspective on controversial issues that inhabit our media, and current world situations. Drooker has a graphic novel out called "Howl." I thought of purchasing it before even really investigating it because the art is just so awesome!
Ok, so upon investigation the poem "Howl" was written by Allen Ginsburg, one of the founders of the Beat Generation movement. As I write this blog, I ponder how many people have heard of the Beat Generation, but like myself have no idea what the heck it is. The Beat Generation for me is like a shadow in my peripheral that I know is there, yet have no idea what it is, or what it stands for, until today. I would also go as far as to say that we have all been influenced by the Beat Generation movement. Ginsberg published the poem along with other works in 1957, and was immediately arrested due to the obscenity charges. The long and short of this blog is that I am attracted to revolution. One of the things that I love about Pamela is that she is constantly searching out ways to redefine herself by challenging her own perspectives. "Howl" is worth checking out, but be advised that there are adult themes within Drooker's animations and Ginsburg's poem.

Pause, Reflect, Observe, Adjust, Let's go!

2011-03-20T21:04:00.001-07:00

Spring break rules because it allows you to;
Pause, Reflect, Observe, Adjust, Let's go!

Take a moment and look up.

2011-03-14T17:09:00.000-07:00

While backpacking it's tough to really look around. It's almost like the trail is waiting for you to not pay attention so that it can stub your toe. So, this time I tried to stop more frequently and look around. This was also a good excuse to stop for a break. One of these stops struck me as a blog topic; we don't look up enough. Every moment of every day we're going to and fro, climbing in and out of cars, going in and out of buildings. We just don't look up enough. There's a lot of beautiful things out there that we miss every day. When was the last time you truly took some time to look up. Doesn't matter the time of day, just take 20 minutes and look up.

Dismissal Portrait

2011-02-24T18:12:00.001-08:00

Today I was working Car-Rider dismissal. A cute little girl (probably 2nd grade) was fumbling with a small pencil and notepad. As she passed by me she smiled and passed me this little slip of paper. "Thankyou!" I said.

King of Limbs

2011-02-19T15:02:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I get a text from a good friend Darrin that says "You probably know already, but in case you don't, the new radiohead album is out." I replied with "!." Two minutes later I've purchased the album, and am enjoying the new album. Ahhhhhhh.

Black heart

2011-02-14T17:42:00.001-08:00

"Edward often made exotic new candies to display in his window, hoping to attract Angelina into his store. It wasn't long before she too became captivated and visited often, not only to explore his latest creations, but to catch a glimpse of the handsome young candy maker.
But fate had fallen on them, as she was destined to marry someone else. Knowing he could never love another, the candy maker fell into despair. On the day of the wedding, the people of Sangramore stood aghast in front of the tiny store. Gone were the cheerful delights they had come to expect, the display window was filled with nothing but black candy hearts."

A special thanks to Pamela for this awesome valentine gift from Marich.

"I did that?...I did do that."

2011-02-12T10:28:00.001-08:00

Today 02/12/11 is significant. You know those periods in your life where you've been working toward a goal(s) and you know that there are certain events that will take place before you reach them, yet you don't know when exactly?
Well, today I know when each of those events are going to take place, and it's a little eye-opening. Today I have made a series of clicks, payments, and mailings that will impact who I am, and will become.
1. Applied for Admission to LMU to obtain my EDS degree
2. Mailed in my Intent to Graduate Forms (MA in Educational Administration and Supervision)
3. Registered for the School Leaders Licensure Assessment
I look at these three things with a bit of awe. As if to say "I did that?" I did do that.

Word.

kids not speed bumps

2011-01-29T20:55:00.000-08:00

So, I've had a pretty large revelation this week. The crazy thing is that it should not have been a revelation...ever. This is something that every teacher knows. This simple fact is the reason teachers enter into education. It's about the children. It's about the children. It's about the children. Perhaps I think if I say it three times all my ed problems will disappear...nope.
Here's the back-story. I attended a "dealing with problem-student" inservice the other day. I hadn't planned on attending, but every teacher in TNs got to accumulate 12 unscheduled inservice hours throughout the year. This was held in my school, and it was only an hour long so...why not. I've got about 5 behavior problem kids in my class currently. The big revelation came when the speaker Dr. Stair (a known psychiatrist in knoxville) said "You've got to speak with respect, and empathize with your problem students." Empathize? I'm just trying to get through the day multitasking, and running circles around the school like a chicken with my head cut off. OK, so, empathy, and sympathy have never been strong character traits for me, but I know this, and have been working on it. When I heard that empathy was the key, I realized that this was the "missing element" in my teaching. Don't get me wrong, I do care, I just have to try harder to see things from the "problem-child" point of view.
The truth of the matter is, education becomes about the teacher. There are so many things that we teachers daily combat, so many speed bumps that get in our way, and take us away from the classroom (mentally). It becomes about us. Reality, it just isn't about us. It isn't about us. Just got to let all the crap go, and focus on the kids. The kid's that's acting up in the classroom is acting up for a reason; hurt, pain, loss, etc... These kids become obstacles in the lives of teachers. With all the pressure that we daily endure, they make our lives miserable. The fact is, we (teachers) are dealing with real kids with real problems that make their lives miserable, and we are concerned about teaching a state standard. I loose my humanity. Whelp, I've taken it back, and started speaking to my kids with more respect, empathy, and sympathy. I ordered "Teacher and Child; a Book for Parents and Teachers" by Dr. Haim Ginot to help guide me through this transformation as a teacher.

"I've come to the frightening conclusioin that I am the decisive element in the classroom. It's my daily mood that makes the weather. As a teacher, I possess a tremendous power to make a child's life miserable or joyous. I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration. I can humiliate or humor, hurt or heal. In all situations, it is my response that decides whether a crisis will be escalated or de-escalated and a child humanized or de-humanized.” -Dr. H. Ginot

Apocalyptic

2011-01-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

I've always been a fan of post-apocalyptic movies; Mad Max, Planet of the Apes, Terminator(s), 12 Monkeys, 9, The Matrix, I Am Legend,The Book of Eli, The Road, and I'm sure there are many many more that I'm forgetting. Just thought I'd share.

Celebrate the passing

2010-12-29T08:52:00.000-08:00

Ahhh this year has grown old. It has come to my attention that we celebrate the New Year with all kinds of happiness and joy and think nothing for the old year. It's a bit sad, and I feel sorry for the old year. What's the deal? Is it me, or is there some cultural objective of looking at the old year as negative, creating resolutions and looking at the new year as a sort of second chance. Well, I say we celebrate the Old Year! I suppose that's why people send the "brag-letter" out, and that's not what I'm talking about. I'm also not suggesting that we need to throw a party, I'm just suggesting that we reflect on 2010 with fondness. The Old Year is passing, and we'll never have it again.

The Ugly Truth

2010-12-22T07:33:00.000-08:00

If I were to take the personality quiz "What Star Wars character are you?" I'm pretty sure I'd get Han Solo, however I'm also pretty sure that he's the character I'd want to get. Which Star Wars character am I really? Probably C3P0. Man, it pains me to say it, but as much as a care-free, laid-back, happy-go-lucky, person I would like myself to be, I am really OCD, critical, and anal. I am worried about all the things that makes one a C3P0, and it wears those who really know me (Pamela) out. The truth of the matter is, that though teaching is the best job around, there are also many stresses that force me into my cold gold shiny shell. This realization of this fact is always accompanied with a break. The simple truth, I take myself too seriously. Here's to letting loose, and putting on my blue pants with the gold stripe, and black vest. Word.

... the Ring calls

2010-11-28T19:54:00.001-08:00

I will not deny that the "Ring" has been calling me for some time. I can hear it speak to me in a subtle whisper as I pass my bookshelf. Problem... time. Who has time to read the LOTR in the hectic nature of life? Whelp, tonight I forced myself to push aside all of the goings on and opened up "The Fellowship." I loved getting lost tonight for two hours in the dealings of hobbits.

The look

2010-11-25T08:55:00.000-08:00

I love when I'm getting ready to go somewhere and Pamela sees what I've put on, and gives me "the look."

Some people want to eat a turkey on Thanksgiving.

2010-11-24T17:56:00.000-08:00

All people talk about is eating turkey
The President even sets one free.
Me...I want to find the largest turkey in the world
and ride it like a steed.
Fight crime and do good.
That would give a lot of people a lot to be thankful
for.

Mr. Klicka is proud of you.

2010-11-23T22:12:00.001-08:00

"Greatest Hero"

2010-11-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

"Mr. Klicka, I wrote a rap about SpiderMan." Mom was about 45 minutes late to the Parent Teacher conference so...

"Greatest Hero"

Word.

Colonization Rap

2010-11-21T16:36:00.000-08:00

Ahhh. I feel relief having finished this mammy jammy.

Colonization Rap

Word.

Musical Learning

2010-11-19T18:48:00.001-08:00

Here's a couple songs I made to aid learning. Both are for observations by the principals. Word.

Verb Tenses

D M S B-D --> R

Statistic Sabbath

2010-11-07T16:43:00.000-08:00

Statistics are some fancy boy's dream
Subtle mixes and air conditioned sanctuaries
Justify your institutions
Mathematics don't judge the heart

Stat-success to pass your plates
Calculate and take a cut
Potluck gatherings and preachy friends
But I'm still hungry

Production sans production
Routined routined routined to death
Weekly fix of hands raised high
Cut me off on the way to brunch

red eye = quick hit

2010-10-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

"Mr. Klicka, are you crying?" "Yes" I replied, "With pure joy." The truth is, I'm wiped out. I feel super spread thin right now. Like when you are looking for something, and it's right in front of you, and you can't see it. "How will I make it through this HW and class tonight?" I asked myself, and then, just then I heard a small voice whisper "caffeine." Since the Dr. advised to cut back the drug I have. I've become accustomed to drinking decaf, but the truth is, I needed a quick hit. So, I stopped by a local coffee place and picked up a black coffee. Result = assignment cranked out and I feel awesome!

I just need one...

Fall Day

2010-10-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

"You and I"

2010-10-20T14:19:00.000-07:00

"A Good Book"

2010-10-11T17:10:00.001-07:00

Explorer Magic

2010-10-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

Pamela assisted me by creating the music to this rap for social studies. We had a blast making it, but I could never have imagined the response that I got from the kids. I've been slamming my head up against the wall trying to get these kids involved, but to no avail, that is, until today. Lights were behind eyes, and the kids were on fire.

Explorers Rap

Enjoy.

Hi, my name is...

2010-10-05T15:41:00.000-07:00

We need people in our lives who can remind us who we are. We are so busy, so totally saturated with intense schedules, pressures, and overall crap that we forget we are changing the world.

Outside enough?

2010-10-04T18:19:00.001-07:00

I knew it was only a matter of time before an acorn hit me. Outside enough? Yes.

Zombies are real!

2010-10-01T20:07:00.001-07:00

A student approached me first thing the other morning, "Mr. Klicka! Zombies are real, they live in Russia!" Here's my Czech version for you young man.

Right Now!

2010-09-30T13:34:00.001-07:00

Life is divided into three terms - that which was, which is, and which will be. Let us learn from the past to profit by the present, and from the present to live better in the future. ~William Wordsworth

"...journey toward fulfillment"

2010-09-26T15:47:00.000-07:00

Today Pamela and I went to MCAY used books (a Sunday tradition), and I found gold. "The Missing Piece" and "Runny Babbit" by Shel Silverstein. The copy of "The Missing Piece" is old and yellow like my copy of "A Light in the Attic" given to me 24 years ago by "Mommy and Daddy." When I opened it I found this;
"Dearest David-
We're all on our quests for our missing pieces...
Know that on your journey toward fulfillment you are supported and truly loved.
Lots of love,
-Ange"
I was moved and choked up by this inscription. I wonder what David was going through, and where he is now. David's "journey toward fulfillment" made this copy of this book very special to me. The simplicity and depth of this book makes my love for Uncle Shelby even greater.

"My favorite poet."

2010-09-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

(Permission provided to post pics)

Recently one my sweet students from last year came into my room with her mom to visit. She was so excited to share pictures that she had taken with her favorite poet Emily Dickinson. This was a humbling experience for me. It's amazing how studying poems throughout the year can impact a student. Here's to you, young lady.

Word

2010-09-23T17:39:00.001-07:00

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire."
~William Butler Yeats

Verse traverse

2010-09-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday as we went over our new spelling words for the week we came across the word "toll.". After I dictated the word the students begin to quote a poem that we worked on about a month ago. One student began reciting, and others joined in, and they quoted the entire poem. At what I first took to be students speaking out of turn, I became overwhelmed.

"THERE is no frigate like a book
  To take us lands away,
Nor any coursers like a page
  Of prancing poetry.

This traverse may the poorest take         5
  Without oppress of toll;
How frugal is the chariot
  That bears a human soul!"
-Emily Dickinson

What a moment.

Word.

Sun is shining...

2010-09-18T04:54:00.001-07:00

Health Care Cares

2010-09-18T04:26:00.000-07:00

I am stoked! With the cost of healthcare going up, here's one guy who will be paying less. The healthcare that I've owned over the last year has been employee + family. Yes, I've been insuring my two unborn children, for perhaps, practice...? Big changes have obviously been happening in our nation since healthcare reform etc. A class that I am currently taking at LMU called "School Improvement" has frequent discussions about this type of thing. The teacher is the Assistant Super Intendant for Knox County and currently says "As healthcare costs rise..." I had heard a while back from TNs "ParTNers for Health" that the reconstruction of the state's healthcare would include an Employee+Spouse option. I have had a secret hope that even though costs were going up, this would mean more cash in my pocket. I am proud to say that that amount will be over a hundred dollars. To me, this shows that people are thinking, and looking out for me and my family. Way to go TN and Knox county! When Pamela and I were talking about this the other day I told her that enrollment is now through October and the new policy would start January 1st, she said "We have to wait till January?" This is one family who welcomes change with open arms.

Study Hall Note

2010-09-16T10:10:00.000-07:00

Got this note from a kid while I was the Study Hall Teacher.

"Dear Mr. Klicka,

I like your room and your drawilings.
I know that your not that mean because
my friend told my that your realy funny."

Guess I can't fool 'em.

Almost a blog post.

2010-09-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

I was going to blog about education, but I got so frustrated I quit.

Voices from the past.

2010-09-11T22:27:00.000-07:00

"I can't read Hemingway" a good friend of mine recently told me. I wondered immediately if this was a voice from high school coming back to haunt him. The truth? I felt the same way. "The Old Man and the Sea" was rough reading in my youth, but I loved it as an adult. How many beliefs from our youth keep us from new experiences? Thoughts?

No way to go!

2010-09-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

It may look like the promised land, or even the beach, but the truth is salt is no way to go. I don't care if you are Lot's wife, or an ant.

Moonwalker

2010-08-31T14:53:00.001-07:00

The other night Pamela and I watched "Moonwalker" a "movie" that featured a small plot plus several music videos. I remember watching the movie as a kid, and was instantly reminded of how much I loved MJ. Recently we've been buying up all the MJ cds and I must say I really am enjoying them. The "Captain EO" tribute at Disney Land re-awakened the spark. MJs life as a musical artist will forever remain unparalleled.

www.igorlives.blogspot.com

2010-08-28T23:43:00.000-07:00

A blog to support my friend. Please visit often and comment to show support.

www.igorlives.blogspot.com

Igor Lives blockprint

2010-08-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

I made this blockprint of Igor because this photo truly captures his personality. I'm planning on trying to sell them and give all money collected to he and his family in this tough time.

Word.

The Snows of Kilimanjaro

2010-08-23T19:04:00.001-07:00

"Then they began to climb and they were going to the East it seemed, and then it darkened and they were in a storm, the rain was so thick it seemed like flying through a waterfall, and then they were out and Compie turned his head and grinned and pointed and there, ahead, all he could see, as wide as the world, great, high, and unbelievably white in the sun, was the square top of Kilimanjaro. And then he knew that there was where he was going." Ernest Hemingway

Score.

2010-08-22T17:19:00.001-07:00

Today at MCAY Used Books I got Bon Iver "For Emma, Forever Ago"

and "Broken Bells"

for $12.50!

That's what I'm talking about. Just goes to show that you've got to be patient and keep on lookin'.

Pray for Igor.

2010-08-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

This is the Zayets family; Igor, Kristina and baby Angelina. He's a friend of mine from Whirlpool. Igor has IGA Nephropathy and has been given about 2 years to live unless he receives a kidney transplant. Please join the community of family and friends and pray for him.

A friend... for a moment

2010-08-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

Well. I bought a couch with my hard-earned summer school money. Pamela found it on craigslist and I picked it up the other day. I was very proud of the couch. I loved it...for a moment. The problem is, it was just too big for our space. I re-posted it on craigslist, and it is now gone. It's better to have loved and lost, than not loved at all.

Farewell my friend...farewell. Thank you for your temporary comfort.

Butterfly Whisper-er

2010-08-08T13:57:00.000-07:00

I decided that the yard needed to be mowed today. So went into the shed to get the lawn-mower and I saw a beautiful butterfly (about 5 inch wingspan). I thought to myself "this poor beautiful butterfly is stuck in this nasty dark shed." I then thought that I should help the butterfly back into the sunshine. I remembered that touching a butterfly's wings = death. As I went back into the shed I decided that I'd just reason with her. I reached down with my finger and she flew a few inches to the left. The beauty was obviously spooked. I then took a look at her and said in a gentle voice "trust me." I put my finger out again and she climbed on. I slowly walked out into the light and through the door. "Now" I said and she took off free from her dungeon. "I am in touch with nature" I told Abby.

Redemption at my front door

2010-08-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

Tonight as Pamela, Paul and I sat talking about what we were going to do tonight the door bell rang. It was Jerry Price of the Anderson County Rescue Squad. If you have any previous knowledge about the events that lead up to the family portrait with Pamela, Paul and I, you probably remember the story of me being a total a-hole to the ACRS guy before. "Hold on one second, let me get my wallet" was all I said. I gave him all the money I had, he then with a large grin on his face said "Thank you for your donation Mr. Klicka, here's a gift certificate for a full color 10x13 family portrait." I smiled. To be continued...

"Introductions"

2010-07-12T19:27:00.001-07:00

Saw this face in a mirror and he did not look like me
Do you expect me to be you? Dancing that same old dance that you do.
Stepping to the same old tune, singing the same songs, righting those same wrongs.
Fighting the fight, which fails to ignite because it is not my cause
Truth of the matter is I don’t know what’s sadder is
Than a puppet caught on strings of repetition.
Repeating, repeating, repeating, repeating
Repeating the spent lives of those who rent lives from landlords of the past.

Saw this…reflection in a window and he was not me
Should I be the son who bangs the drum of corporate Kings?
Levelheaded middle-aged doldrum dreaded cubicle dreams
Prisoner behind the bars watching the stars from potential life that’s worth living
Plugged-in multi-tasking passion fasting rhythm lacking rhythm
Day in day out day in day out day in day out routine of thee I sing
When introduced to the man who asks me to pledge allegiance to his flag of practicality
Doubt in his eyes when he wonders what prize I win in for this life of creative sin

What if I bump into myself, introduce myself and become myself
What will you think of that? Whatcha gonna say to that?
Gonna find the flaws to sink in the claws of critical remorse
What if I said it’s not to late to confront fate and demand a second chance?
Hold up, the hold up, the hang up, you got to hang up your hang ups’
Put away the cant’s and put on the pants of potential purpose
Accept the face that’s given, find the right that’s livin’ dream the dream that’s driven
Who am I but myself, found by myself, gift to myself, to be myself

Liquid Greed the Color Green

2010-07-09T08:32:00.001-07:00

Black penetrating clouds of claustrophobic night
Consuming, choking, daylight life
Take you take you take we take
Until owned we own are owned
We drive until dark the darkness takes back
Liquid greed the planted seed of death
Controlled burns enGulfed turns hurricane
Sick the dream the color green wars of
Weapons your weapons our weapons of mass destruction

The PBJ

2010-05-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

Mail Box # 2.

2010-05-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

We've had 2 mailboxes get crunched in the last month. I put some serious screws in this one. I feel sorry for the next person to hit the mb.

The Mailbox strikes back!

Class Block-Print

2010-05-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

Weekly winners of the Behavior Award have been working on this blockprint during lunch 10 minutes at a time. Today we printed, and I think it turned out quite well.

Word up to Mr. Klicka's class.

Play Ball! Smokies Baseball Field Trip

2010-05-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

Get on your pony and ride!

Scene!

2010-05-04T19:11:00.001-07:00

Welp, I'm back on the stage. After a 10 year hiatus I have returned. The show is "Curtains" and will be playing at Pellissippi's theater the last two weekends of June. Tonight was the second rehearsal. We were on UTs stage doing our blocking when I had a moment. I remembered the feeling from past shows years ago. Sometimes I would go out onto the stage when no one else was around and breathe in the theatre. Tonight, while we learned our blocking I felt it again, the magic of the show. It's nice to have the actor-me back. Here we go...

Classroom Distractions...

2010-04-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

"Young man, what are you doing?" "I'm trying to get the dead rat out of his jacket." "There's a real dead rat inside his jacket?" "Yes Mr. Klicka, there's a hole in the side, and that's how he got in." "Please put the jacket in the cubby area, and deal with it during recess." "OK Mr. Klicka." It turned out to be a dead bird that had found it's way into the lining of a student's jacket and not been able to get out while the jacket lay in the woods for several days. They got it out while at recess. Pretty funny.

Western Expansion Rap

2010-04-16T19:44:00.000-07:00

Check out this rap I wrote for the Western Expansion 4th grade test. Thanks to Pamela for the music.
Western Expansion Rap

Malcolm

2010-03-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

The other day I bought a new cd and I wanted to load it on my Zune mp3 player. I realized that it was impossible to do so without downloading some internet program onto my school computer. I just don't want to take my chances with the internet. So, after a couple of days of bumming I realized that I could pool my resources and take books, cds, dvds, vhs', and my great Zune down to MKay used books. I swapped them all, payed $9 dollars, and am now getting to know my new 80 gig friend Malcolm.

Sweet

2010-03-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

I love the gift of honey-sweetness that waits at the bottom of my tea.

Where am I going?

2010-03-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

Just follow the blaze.

Braun Electric Shaver

2010-02-28T19:14:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago I decided that I needed to do something about shaving. I've been shaving with the same Mach 3 razor for years now, and am tired of the (shave - rash - wait 2 days to shave) cycle. The simple fact that the Mach 3 lifts and cuts presents the problem of those irritating in-grown hairs (future blog post). Anyway, I picked up the Braun 1 series pictured here at Walmart for $39.99, and my troubles are gone. It's nowhere near as close a shave as the Mach 3, but well worth the compromise. The cycle of pain has ended. It's all about the electric shaver, now if I can only manage not to drop it.

A Winter Walk at Haw Ridge

2010-02-15T17:21:00.001-08:00

Today Abby and I went on a winter walk. I am guessing we walked about 7 miles. Abby was in the frigid water as much as possible, and got a bath afterwards. It was amazing fun.

Presidents Day

2010-02-15T03:59:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up to my alarm going off at 6:00...."ahhh sleeping in." I thought. Today, while many other counties have the day off we at Knox County have an inservice day! This is the type of thing that, although lame, can make a huge difference. Everybody's got a big chunk of time without kids around to get some real work done. Anyway, I happened to glance out the window to see several inches of snow that had fallen over night..."No way." I went to check the computer, and sure enough...no inservice day for me. You can't imagine my sadness. Now...what to do....?

Happy Birthday Mr. President, and thank you.

Here I am.

2010-02-13T06:33:00.001-08:00

I am so happy to be up and at 'em at 8:00 this morning. I feel like the day is full of productivity. The sun is shining, and everything is alright.

The gift of all gifts

2010-02-01T18:39:00.000-08:00

Since moving to TN Pamela and I have become increasingly grateful for having made friends with Mark and Anita Boling. Over the years we have grown close, enjoying lunch after church and an occasional holiday get-together. One day I asked Anita about her quilts. I asked her if she'd ever sell a quilt, thinking how awesome it'd be to have one. She said that she wouldn't. I asked her "How does one acquire one then?" Here is her answer.

What an amazing gift! Hand quilted and made with love. I will treasure this quilt Anita. Thank you!

Lame

2010-01-31T19:53:00.000-08:00

Sir Edmund Hilary (the first to summit Mt. Everest) said "We don't conquer the Mountain, we conquer ourselves." I've thought a lot about his quote over the last few months. I find that with every challenge that is put before me, It's myself that I've got to get over. Even as I prepare to take on Monday morning I find that the trouble isn't with my job, or the 25 voices speaking to me at the same time, but with myself. Also, on a slightly different note, I get all excited about the weekend because I can hit the restart button and get rested. Yet, I find myself taking part in activities that do not give me rest. Staying up too late, watching movies, etc... It's all a big justification in my mind, "You work really hard all week, you can do what you want to do..." Lame.

A Snowy Night Walk

2010-01-30T18:28:00.000-08:00

School's Canceled!

2010-01-29T12:48:00.000-08:00

Got a phone call last night from Knox County stating that school would be closed today. So nice so nice.

School's canceled so Paul, Abby, and I hit the slopes!

2010-01-07T19:11:00.001-08:00

Winter hiking madness

2010-01-04T16:33:00.000-08:00

Tony and I decided that it would be totally awesome to go on a winter hiking trip. After much discussion and planning we decided on the Great Smoky Mountains. Clad in our new gear and camping equipment we set off on our adventure. When we arrived at the GSMs the first sign that would set the mood for our trip hit us right away. The roads leading into the park, a mere 7 miles from the trail head, were closed due to icing. We waited in Tony's car for an hour in the 23 degree weather for the roads to open, both slightly worried our trip was not to be. Fortunately, the roads opened and we continued up the icy path toward our destination. This is what we saw next,

Snow! This excited us to no end. We got our backpacking permit at the ranger station and geared up.

It was a beautiful hike despite the falling temperatures.

We ran into a couple inches of fresh snow on the ridge of the trail.

We were surprised to find that all the normal "fun" parts of camping did not accompany us on this trip. After fighting with getting a fire started with an abundance of frozen wood for two hours we finally got it going. We did not enjoy the fire though, there was no way to really get warm. There are no photos of the freezing night due to the fact that my batteries froze. In the morning I took them out and warmed them in my pocket to take the following pictures. Check out Grandpa's frozen walking stick, icicles over the river, and my new stove.

An icy imprint. When we woke the next morning it was 9 degrees out. Cold! It was an interesting night. When I failed to get the morning fire going I decided to go for a quick walk to thaw out my feet. I was a bit concerned, knowing that this is the first phase of hypothermia.

I tried in vain to take a parting shot of the battle-torn Tony and I, but yet again my batteries were frozen. With a few lessons learned we drove off in the seemingly warm 23 degrees a little bit wiser. Tony and I agreed, winter is for day hikes not over-nighters (unless you've got the proper gear).

A Bonsai New Year

2010-01-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

Paranormal Investigators

2009-12-17T20:21:00.000-08:00