As a catechist (CCD teacher to those non-Catholics reading this blog) for over 5 years, I often wonder if the catechumens (CCD students) ever absorb any information that I attempt to teach in lessons each week. I ask myself questions like Are they really getting it? and Did I make sense in explaining that difficult subject today? or Will the kids actually apply what they learned when they walk out the door? The list goes on and on.

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A fellow blog-friend recommended a social networking site to me called Goodreads, which is basically where I’ve been maintaining virtual ‘bookshelves’ (or lists) of books that I’ve been reading or would like to read. The service is especially cool because it allows me to post ratings and/or comments about books on my own bookshelves, as well as on those created by friends. And how about the added perk of visiting actual authors with profiles on Goodreads? Cool, indeed!

Only now, here’s this late-breaking tidbit:
Amazon Snaps Up Book Lover SocNet Shelfari

Guess where I’m headed? Look out Goodreads - Shelfari is the SocNet to watch.

Lots of ‘em. Meetings, that is. Just when you think, “Ok great! All the forms are in, clothes purchased, kids out the door and adjusting nicely to all those new classes. Yep, we’re all set!”

Nope. You’re not.

Well, that is we’re not, because tonight the Catholic Family and I found ourselves attending yet another parent meeting/orientation/open house and met with no less than 7 teachers and/or facilitators. It’s enough to make your head spin around in 360 degree circles, I tell you. Thankfully, ice cream was involved - although not for certain lactose intolerant parents (me) who can do without the painful side affects, but the kids were all over that cold treat at the end. *woohoo!*

But anyway, here are a couple of priceless quotes that I want to remember for all time, thus earning a plug on my blog. They were just that cool:

• Catholic Son on the way to school on a dreary, blechy weathered morning: “Mom, I think someone forgot to paint the sky today. There’s no blue in it, or any color at all.”
• Youth Chamber Orchestra Conductor: “Watch and stay with the tempo as I direct you. Because it’s all about me here, you know.”

Meanwhile, I’ll close with a little motivation for the morning Catholic Kid shuttle:
Mongo-Sized Double Espresso (It works miracles.)

Catholic Son brought home the sweetest message ever from his teacher, and it screams Share this with the Blogosphere! at the top of its lungs. Enjoy!

First Day

They came
with bright eyes and curious minds.
They came
bold and confident, shy and reserved.
They came
with eagerness and apprehension to begin a new year.
They came
to form a community of learners.
They came
with knowledge and innocence.
They came
representing their family’s aspirations and dreams.
They came
to learn and I am so glad they did.
Thank You for entrusting me to educate your child. It is an honor.
(Photo of CS here, signed by teacher.)

I think we’re all in love with this teacher. *sniff*