Today's word: Discombobulated

It has been almost an entire month since my last blog post. And in that time we were smacked by my namesake Hurricane Irma.

Although we faired well, broken fence, awning, and shingle damage, we were without power for 10 days. We were also without internet and limited cell service for those 10 days.

I finally have my home back to order and started working on my "Authentic Task Part 1" for my assessment class. I am so discombobulated to say the least. It made me really reflect on my students and how they must have been feeling as well. 

The hurricane came and went in a 24 hour period. But building up to it was long and emotionally draining. Most people were posting "Hurry up, get here already!".  Then the 24 hours of storms and winds were scary. We hid the whole family (aunts, uncles, grandparents, great-grandparents, kids, dogs, cousins) in the hallway during a tornado warning. You could hear howling and debris smacking the roof. Then the climax was over and we were left in a curfew the following day till 6pm. 

Then finally to assess damage. Our neighborhood looked like a war zone. In fact it only looks slightly better 2 weeks later. There are still lots of trees down and debris blocking the streets. 

So here I sit trying to complete a project that should have been completed the Friday before the storm. But because schools canceled and everything was in disarray, a huge extension was given for the project. At first, I was relieved as most students probably are when we extend a deadline.

But now that I am faced with the task, I am DISCOMBOBULATED! There is no better word for it. I am having to re-print an article I read, took notes on, and highlighted. I have no idea where it is today. I am having to re-read articles that were also part of the task that now I can't recall what they were all about.

As a teacher, this was our first full week in a long time. The students although excited to come back and socialize were not in their usual school rhythm. Some where struggling more with adjusting back to a schedule and classroom work. There were tears of frustration. I can sympathize, I feel like crying tears of frustration right now.

I encourage you as parents or teachers to be patient with your kiddos. Encourage them to do well and be patient as we all readjust. Be honest and truthful with your own feelings. Sometimes it's really good for them to know that you might be DISCOMBOBULATED too!