indianapolis.

This past week I have been crazy, not sleeping busy because of work - that is nationals for debate, held in Indianapolis this year. While a little stressful at times, it is such a reward to not only work with, but see the success of such talented students. That being said, we had some time for fun and exploring the "Racing Capital of the World" (according to the sign coming into the city). While we did not see any real racecars, we did find some miniature ones, along with a huge van, and some really breathtaking art. 

Diamond Hotwheels car at the Indianapolis Children's Museum.

Glass ceiling by Chihuly at the Children's Museum. 

Tower of Fireworks, also by Chihuly, at the Museum. 

My new van which I've been driving around Indy. 

my new favorite bracelet.

One of my favorite things about teaching debate is how much my students do appreciate me, even if I'm not always aware of it. Last week, at the final team banquet I started crying when the students were thanking me, and I cried more later when I read the sweetest messages on the card they gave me. While nothing can mean more than these words, they gave me some absolutely beautiful gifts as well. One of which is this twisted silver bracelet, my new favorite go-to piece.

I can't believe how lucky I am to work with such wonderful students day in and day out. I'm so sad to see the seniors graduate, but can't wait to take some of them to nationals in Indianapolis and see the young'uns grow even more next year!

letdowns.

It never feels good when you let yourself down, but it always feels worse when you let someone else down. Such is the case during the state debate tournament last week, when my students came in third overall. The disappointment was rampant and I felt so terrible because I felt like I could have done more to help them win. However, this did provide a very good life lesson, one much needed for both the students and myself.

Although these such tournaments encounter variable judging quite often, as well as long hours, and some less-than-peppy coaches, the students usually do pretty well. However, there were a few more obstacles to overcome at this tournament, including favoritism, even longer hours, and a coach (that would be me) breaking down over the variable judging. It seemed to get the best of me, and my students. Well here is where the good life lesson comes in: do not let these little things get to you. Although judges making you lose because they dislike your school, or things running late because there is a lack of judges, these are things that sometimes come with the territory of high school debate, and truth be told there is not much that can be done about it. Such is the way the cards are dealt, and this is something both my students and I had to learn.