It's time again...

Hello Dear Souls,

I have made the assumption that my audience has generally dissipated during the holiday season. If for some reason you are not included in this assumption- and have persistently checked this blog to no avail the past few weeks- I am sending my apologies. Here again, I resume the delightful job of updating one and all on life on the Reservation.

But alas, I have been home on break (a quite wonderful one at that) for the past week, so I shall go back in time to relay a few wonderful bits of news from LNI (refer to previous post for more specific background information)... I was thoroughly busy with the LNI Lakota Language team, who took second place at the tournament (congrats!), driving them around in a bus- no wait, a van- after the bus was stolen by the boys basketball- and proceeded to quit working (but that's not my story to tell)- and more driving drama... okay, I'll explain.

7:00am (or 7:30am, whichever time you feel is more important to remember) we departed with 5 students and three adults on a large 'bus 13' to Rapid City... on the way, we stopped about 4 miles post leaving to see about some b-ball uniforms left at school, then proceeded on, only to encounter a broken-down b-ball bus about 30min. from Red Cloud. (to add context, it was bitterly cold and we believe the diesel gelled up). We picked up one coach and three managers (the other boys found personal rides)... and resumed our travel. By 9am- after some strategic navigation by yours truly- we made it to the Civic Center, where the LNI team proceeded to kick 'tail'. But the bus. Yes, after grabbing light lunch at the mall, our team headed back to the civic center, in order for the b-ball team to accost our bus- leaving us ride-less for a few hours (see, recall the team's bus was currently sitting idle about 1 hour from Rapid City)... so we managed to occupy ourselves until someone from school graciously drove up a school van for our use. Which we used, of course, the duration of our stay. :) Hence, "the bus- no wait, a van..." comment above.

Okay, so that left us some splendid travel opportunities, being more maneuverable and all in a van. The beautiful Lakota Language team (did I mention they rocked?) and I decided to peruse some pretty Christmas lights and decorations in the 'nice' residential area of Rapid. This of course had nothing to do with the fact that Haines Ave is NOT the road on which our hotel was located, (no matter how long you decide to travel it, Emily). Yeah- even super bus drivers occasionally make geographical errors, AND it takes a creative bus driver to turn it into an event to remember. :)

I had the privilege of experiencing LNI with the company of Katie, fellow volunteer last year, and it made for some lovely times. We returned to Red Cloud Thursday night and headed up Friday to LNI with a car packed for Christmas. I was able to enjoy the wrestling tournament- during which Red Cloud finished a strong 3rd- with 1st place, heavy weight champion Jacob (refer to previous Halloween picture with ostrich costume). and 2nd place, seniors Ryan and Charles.

Overall, it was a splendid time, and I enjoyed visiting with friends Amy, Jared, and Trey before heading home, where I have thoroughly enjoyed family and friends (old and new). :)

That is all for now. I have been thinking over my past time at Red Cloud (now, 1 1/2 years!) and have come to the conclusion that I am so blessed, by every student who makes me smile, every co-worker who gives me joy, every volunteer who makes me laugh and cry, every community member who gives me a sense of being at home, and every moment which makes me realize that love, generosity, and peace are treasured possessions which everyone deserves to experience.

May you experience these gifts, particularly during the holiday season. With a heart full of love and voice filled with laughter,

Emily

Nearing Christmas...

Hello Pine Ridge Enthusiasts...

I feel as if I have more news than normal for you... I'm not sure if that's true or not, but that's what I feel like today... :)


This past week has been exceptionally great. Probably because I'm still basking in the glow of the Winter Formal (sorry no photos yet)... and in the fact that I'm coasting in my work responsibilities until Christmas. Not that days are ever slow... Only 3 more days of school before the break. WOW! Hard to believe it, even as I type. Of course we have LNI coming shortly (Lakota Nation Invitational)... which is a massive event held in Rapid City... I know I spoke of it last year, but gosh- that's a whole year ago, so I'll share briefly about it... but first, a recap of my previous week...

On Monday a significant event occurred in my life. I began eating regular food. What I mean is, I stopped eating rice. (Not baby food or something). Alright, back up Emily- Two weeks ago my house and I began a challenge to only eat rice for every meal (plus beans for dinner)... basically as an act to simplify our lives, become more aware of our infinite variety in food choices, and be in solidarity with the billions of people in the world who are grateful for the rice they do consume daily. So, I cooked up a massive batch of rice, anticipating our long journey into the world of spicing rice for every meal. Last Monday we began... and last Monday everyone else stopped, but I continued eating only rice, alone. Every meal. 7 days. SO this Monday I concluded my 'rice fast' by eating yogurt covered cheerios for breakfast. 21 meals of only rice, and yogurt covered cheerios are particularly tasty. I have had the issue of dealing with massive food cravings even when I'm not hungry this week (for example, returning to the development office Xmas party for seconds and thirds on all their goodies), so I'm hoping those dissipate before Christmas goodies get shoved in my face. :)

Also this week I have been listening to several students share their personal drama- be it at home, in school with friends, or relationship issues... and mostly I listen and give support, which most often doesn't take too large of a toll on me. For some reason, though, this week I have really been feeling the burden some of these precious students must carry each day- and it exhausts me when I allow it to. I would share more, but I fear breaching a certain level of confidentiality these students expect from me.

On a lighter note, we had a bird in our ceiling on Wednesday. It was quite hilarious really, since we couldn't figure out if it was a bird or a mouse, but every teacher on the top floor would be blessed with the scampering noises every so often... It was one of those odd occurrences which I absolutely enjoy, since it brings an element of spontaneity to the school day.

This week is a big week for basketball, and if you recall hearing last year- basketball IS life here. Thus, last nights season opener between our lady Saders and the Little Wound team was a PACKED house. I took tickets for the event, and honestly, I don't know if there was an empty seat in our gym. Our girls lost a tough contest, but it wasn't a heart breaker- I think the team realizes now what they need to work on. That's what the first game is good for, right?

Also today (Friday, to clarify- since sometimes when I save drafts and post them later, the date gets messed up) the boys play their first home game against Bennett Co. and it should be interesting- all five starters are new, evidently, so let the games begin! (Random note: I will be selling ponpoms and beads for the fans... fundraiser for Stu. Co.)

I forgot to mention that on Tuesday we had our VB awards banquet, and it went really well. We were able to recognize the girls' accomplishments and validate their good character, as well as eat pizza and laugh a little too. For the banquet I had all the varsity players sign a mat to frame a goofy picture of the team for Robin (head coach).... and she LOVED it. I was glad to have that as a way of saying thank you for her dedication to coaching and teaching me a few things about coaching too! :) I now play on a league VB team with Robin and my housemate Sunshine (or by common standards- Dan). We have a blast and really do well... we're most likely standing around 1st place, you know... :)

Okay- back to LNI... So the streets of Rapid City will be bombarded by LNI participants and spectators Dec. 17-20 (not to mention nervous bus drivers), because it is one of the largest events to take place at the Civic Center... Boys and girls basketball tournaments (16 teams), wrestling tourney, boxing, handgames, art show, Lakota language bowl and story telling, knowledge bowl, T.W.O. Pow wow, Educational conferences, and lots of food. Also they generally bring in a celebrity of some sort for added numbers, but I haven't heard word of who that might be... in any case, I am driving bus for the Lakota Language team, which only lasts Wed & Thurs... but I shall be back Friday & Saturday on my own accord, which will be nice to have flexibility in travel.

Another exciting event to take place- Katie, my housemate and best friend from last year will be coming for a visit- and she'll be here this Monday!!! I am so excited to spend the week with her, and she'll be coming to LNI with me as well... ah, I smile in anticipation.

So that's been my week. When I get winter formal pictures back from Ms. Lainey, I shall post them for all to view. I am anxious for Christmas break, getting to catch up with friends and family from back home. It's been a long time since I've had more than a few days' break.

Thanks for the comments on my hair, Amanda and Bethy. The most recent compliment I've received was last night from a dear friend, "You look lovely, that haircut has SO much energy!" :)

And now, for a final story to satisfy your Red Cloud cravings...

The foreign exchange student who is sitting in my office right now...from Germany... just told me that I have a great last name and I shouldn't change it. :) "Isn't that a cool last name?" he just asked another student. I (realizing the other student most likely wouldn't care) responded energetically, "Yeah, it is! Thanks, Fabian. You're the best." He's grading papers for a teacher now- and I asked him, "If you were grading my paper, would you give me a 100%?" He promptly replies, "Of course I would. Because of your last name." :) What a dear and funny soul.

Okay, until the next splendid time we meet (even if it is on cyber space).....

Grateful, mysterious, and content, Emily

Winter & Dancing... both good things.

Hello growing audience... (or are you?) :)


First of all, I am sending my apologies for neglecting this precious post these past few weeks. My pictures which I've included have relatively little to do with what I will type (I think) but I still thought you'd like to see them... so I'll share those first, then proceed to tell you why I think that winter and dancing are both good things (because, of course, they are).

My new haircut! I donated 10+ inches to Locks of Love.

This picture is in case you didn't know what I looked like pre-haircut... a bit drastic, you think?

My look-alike cousin and I at Thanksgiving, comparing my current school pic with her!



My friend Denise and I running our 1/2 marathon back in October

(I told you- unrelated, right?)

Me running- and this wasn't even at the beginning- look at that happy/determined face!

Okay, back to Red Cloud. (when I add pictures, the text gets all scrunched up- sorry!)

Upon getting back from Thanksgiving, I've had one of those wonderful "I love Red Cloud and everyone here" weeks. I mean, every day. Every moment, actually, especially when I make sure to pay attention to the details. The student mentioning his gratitude for the animal crackers or cinnamon bread (thanks, Mom!). The quick wave from a shy senior. The macho junior basketball players coming it to ask what to wear to the winter formal. The senior who collects her after-school incentive points to redeem for items her auntie needs at home- like tide. The freshman who constantly says, "Hi Emily"- about 50 times a day. The Student Council members who are forever being creative and helpful. My heart fills with joy as I simply re-remember these moments. To be sure, each day is filled with them, and often times I wonder how I can possibly capture all this beauty in my memory. Perhaps even sharing it with you and others is the first step toward displaying the goodness of RC high schoolers.

Today is the big day- the day when winter and dancing come together.... it's the WINTER FORMAL. I believe this is a first in Red Cloud history (or at least recent history). The kids are quite excited... some hesitation because of the title 'formal'- but overall pure anticipation of getting dressed up, taking pictures, and being able to spend a Friday evening with friends and 'dates.' :) The kids actually ask me several times if I will be taking a date- and thus far I don't have one- so if you're not busy, any last minute add-ins are welcome! :):) (7-10pm) We have the final details pretty well in place. I still need to find the cord to attach an IPod to the sound system (music would be nice)... but Terrance (a guitar club member and budding musician) has assured me he has what we need. Also I need to make sure we can get the tarp down in time (after middle school basketball practice), string Christmas lights, and possibly have tables with candles, all fancy-like. Ah, can you feel my excitement! I even have a dress for the big event (again, at the urgent prodding of the kids).

Today is a big day for another reason- 7 of our Student Council members will be attending the Inauguration Ceremony for the new Oglala Sioux Tribal President Theresa Two Bulls. She is one of the candidates we invited to our debate, so I am thankful for this follow-up experience for the Stu. Co. members... and myself. Sometimes in my busyness I forgot how privileged I am to be able to leave school for all these cool events around the Rez. :)

I will surely fill you in on all the Winter Formal fun- and also post pictures. Miss Lainey (as her children are taught to address her) is my housemate and also a great photographer, so she is the picture woman tonight- capturing fun for everyone... and enabling this to become a mini-prom of sorts, complete with picture forms! :) I think the school is getting excited since it is open to all ages- whereas Prom is for Jun/Sen classes only. Unfortunately I don't think Santa will be making an appearance, as originally projected, yet perhaps I shall sneak a Santa Hat for a few moments tonight!

Details are awaiting my return, as I prepare to leave for the Inauguration and get back in time to quickly set up for the dance- and then enjoy both good things, Winter & Dancing.

Sending my warmest love in this coldest season,

Emily

Fly-by week!

Greetings dear friends!

This past week has been increasingly picking up pace, and today is my final day in school, as I will be leaving for the State VB tourney tonight in Rapid City. No, our crusaders are not playing (unfortunately)... but my HS Alma mater ARLINGTON is.... so I shall be joining my hometown in cheering on the Cardinals! (I even wore red today... difficult to find now that my wardrobe has changed to include mainly Crusader blue).

This week has been full of restructuring after-school program to accommodate the large turnouts. As one example of how well the after-school program turnouts have been- I have had "advertise after-school program" on my to-do list all semester, thinking that surely there might be a dip in numbers at some point, so I will need to advertise. Nope. Only a growing attendance. Which is awesome, don't get me wrong, but I do have to figure out ways to weed out those who are only 'hanging out' vs. those who are actually studying. 30 students in the library with one monitor sometimes leads to issues. Generally it's fine, but I think it's also an inevitable distraction from studying when so many students congregate.

Hmm, oh yes, I have been working on the winter formal details as well. Wanna know the most daunting of those details? Trying to make a paper snowflake. Ha, see, it's been awhile, and I cannot exactly say that I was the best at any point (making paper snowflakes) but I was previously better than I am now. My first one looked like an oblong white plate with a few random pieces cut out. I have yet to do a second. Don't worry, though, students are generally more savvy than myself, so we should be fine. :) I am also procuring a Santa costume for one of our students to wear for a photo area at the dance. Yes, I know, pulling out all stops on this one! :)

I am still thoroughly impressed with my Student Council this year, particularly the sophomores and juniors. Gosh, I guess I cannot speak enough good things, because I see their potential in so many ways- all bright students, capable, motivated, helpful, creative, and good at communication. Yep, that's them- my Stu. Co. :)

The Drama Club is presenting their play today for the Elementary, and I shall plan to be in the audience as well, since their performance for the HS is occurring tomorrow, and I shall be gone. They are presenting "Iktomi and the Ducks" which is a Lakota legendary story, and I am really excited to see how they pull it off (especially considering they switched plays 1/2 way through the quarter). Two of my Stu. Co. students are also in it, so of course I'll be like a proud older sister in the crowd! :)

On Tuesday of this week the Seniors all participated in a "Senior Day of Service" in which they reported to various sites for the whole day- the sweat lodge and maintenance, the elementary, a ministry in White Clay, NE, a church, and the development office. I think it's fantastic that they all showed up for this and really seemed to enjoy themselves... it goes to show that when given the opportunity, youth are extremely gracious and willing to serve. One student in particular came back from the 3rd grade and told me how much he enjoyed his day helping with reading and math and recess... and beings that I live with the 3rd grade teacher, I asked her about the day, and it seems there was much appreciation for the experience from all parties involved. It's beautiful when we as volunteers can share in the good work of our students here at Red Cloud.

Well, I must be going now, since I have yet to finish working on a presentation that I will be giving to John's spirituality classes on Monday... I am presenting the life and diary of Perpetua, an early 3rd Century Christian Martyr and first Christian women to have recorded a testimony of sorts. I will be 'interpreting' her diary entry from prison (often considered the 'Passion of Perpetua') and give some fun questions to get them thinking about the personality and life of the first Christian women we know about from a primary source.

Thanks for tuning in. As always, I appreciate hearing from so many of you about your continued interest in my life and work here (I say both 'life and work', because they are inextricably integrated). This may be my last entry until Thanksgiving, so I wish you all wonderful and happy moments as the holiday season begins!!!

Much love,

Emily

November Rolls...

Why Hello my Dear Audience...

I am writing to you after nearly two weeks... no apologies this time, basically because I had a five-day weekend, hence... the news from Red Cloud has been relatively minimal. (Except for if you count the fact that we had three days of activities-school and a retreat- cancelled because of an unexpected snowstorm on last Wednesday night.)

This is not to say that experiences have not been occurring, because of course they have. For example, I straightened my hair :) (an annual occurrance which always takes people by surprise because of the distinct way it changes the shape of my face), the Student Council has been planning a winter formal dance (and students are thus agonizing over which color dress to buy and which person to ask as a date), the construction has begun on the south side of the school (we now have strange walkways to follow to arrive at lunch), I subbed for two days in Lakota Language I and II (less than exciting, considering the fact that I sat in front of the class for 10 minutes trying to coax someone to lead them in singing the Flag Song, but shyness prevailed), and I've been prefecting the snowball-throwing zone during lunch. And that, folks, is what comprises a typical few days at Red Cloud. It's been a pretty glorious time, reconnecting with so many students after the long break... Sigh, I love it here...

I have managed to upload some photos from the past few weeks, with Halloween and the O.S.T. Presidential debate, so please enjoy the images of Red Cloud...

First, my long straight hair...okay, now on to Red Cloud :)

Our awesome VB team... Wonderful girls, somewhat less-than-wonderful season.

Steph and Autumn lovin' the door greeting position at OST Debate

Duane, Daisa, and Autumn- attempting to spell out Stu. Co. (for Student Council)

Todd, Jace, and Steven taking in the debate

My super Stu. Co. students- ready to ask questions at the debate

In case you're fooled by their sober faces....

They really ARE happy senior boys who like to deceive the camera...

Rachel (my housemate, front left) at her pumpkin-carving B-day party hosted by the Gray House (that's where I live)! :)

The Administration Addams family... winners of the "most unexpected" award.

The creative beauty of upperclassmen girls!

The less-than-beautiful creativity of other students during dress-up day.

Oh the fun of riding ostriches... exemplified by none other than Jacob Franks

What a lovely picture to end with. :) Honestly, perhaps this photo best reveals the joy I find in our students. Jacob, an intense and jovial student is ALWAYS coming up with bizarre and hilarious 'pranks' and other ways of entertaining staff and students. Tawna, far left fairy, is as sweet as can be- always giving a smile and shy hello in the hallways. Juliana, green tetris piece, is a go-getter senior who is always respectful, creative, and friendly. Marque, vampire, is the Homecoming queen and b-ball MVP for Red Cloud, and it warms my heart to see that distinctions in choice of activities does not create divisions among classmates in some ways which occur at other high schools.... they all show respect for one another, at least mostly, if not entirely.

I am happy to be back in school now, and we only have today and tomorrow until another weekend. Right now, in addition to details for the winter formal, I am working on an after-school incentive program... although I'm not sure it's as necessary as one might think. Just yesterday we had over 60 students stay after school, and that's not counting those who stayed for physical conditioning. We have five clubs offered today, so I expect the numbers to be high once again. Science club, Accelerated Math, Drama Club (they present their play next week), Study hall, and Dance club- to learn formal dancing before our big winter formal! And I expect you're wondering what snack I'll provide... no? Well, that's at least what concerns the kids. :)

Cereal bowls and milk. A general favorite.

My office is currently being 'rocked' by the sway of a demolishing piece of equipment outside. I guess each thud joins a chorus of noises which will be present all year as the the construction continues... It is soon time to cleverly prevent kids from throwing snowballs (hence, it's almost lunch time). I prefer to use positive reinforcement to disarm any potential snow ball fights. "Thanks SO much for not throwing any snowballs... I am Sherriff Emily and I REALLY appreciate that I don't have to write anybody up... because no one wants to see that happen!" What a dork, I know.

Until next time, may you find the 'thuds' of disruption in your life eventually lead to something more wonderful.

In the loving arms of God,

Emily

Halloween!!!

Happy Halloween to all those enthusiastic celebratory types!!! To all others, Happy Friday!

It has been a few weeks once again since I've blogged, and I must say- a 'full' two weeks for sure! Last week Monday and Tuesday I headed to the Junior Retreat at Storm Mountain. (I've decided that being at a job which 'requires' 7 or 8 retreats a year is a pretty sweet deal!). If you reference my last year junior retreat experience, you would find that it was a bit of an exhausting time, so I am overjoyed to report that we had a fabulous time this year, and I even came back energized!!! Good thing, too, since I've definitely needed that extra energy. One sad note, however, is that I took several great pictures, NONE of which ended up being saved onto my computer correctly, and I lost them....all...I know, tear.

My days have been full of planning for the Oglala Sioux Tribal Presidential Debate, which our student council hosted this past Wednesday (more to say later), keeping up with the average 35 kids that come to our after-school program (up in numbers since last year), planning for this Halloween week with a carnival and costume party (by the way, as I type this I am sitting at my desk as a 'dancing witch'. It's a pretty sweet costume, really). :) and VOLLEYBALL, which has consumed a considerable amount of my evenings and weekends this fall. Also we had school pictures last week (which I forgot about, so no promises on the outcome of those pics), two home football games recently (our playoff ended in a loss, finishing our season 6-3, so pretty good!), and a T.W.O. (all-reservation schools) Powwow! Needless to say, too much happening, not enough time to write about it all!

I have been feeling really centered lately, and it has helped me stay focused on being available to help out in a variety of ways here at school, even with the busyness of my own schedule! One other thing I haven't mentioned is that we have a faculty spirituality group which meets weekly to share with one another a meal and our spiritual reflections from the week. I absolutely love this time (I'm cooking for next week's meal- any suggestions?) :) because it gives me an opportunity to unwind and really feel as if I am connected with the wonderful (albeit a bit random) faculty that comprise R. C. staff!

So this week we had two VB games- and I must say, it has been really teaching me the art of perseverance, because our teams haven't really been winning since the middle of the season- so when our varsity pulled off a close 3-2 win over Hill City on Monday, Robin (head coach) and I were overjoyed. The JV Hill City game was also my debut as the sole JV coach (my co-coach was sick).... so I had my first taste of solo coaching, and it was actually a little nerve racking, but SO GOOD. I ended up trying a few new things with the girls, and we continued with that plan last night at our final home game, and low and behold- it finally came together, and the JV played AWESOME!!! I was SO SO SO proud of them (and you know me- I let them know!)... because they finally played up to potential, something I've been waiting to see all season!!! Woohoo! I really do feel as if I may have a future in coaching, even though towards the middle of this season I was definitely having my doubts! The varsity didn't fare so well last night, but we have our first round districts game at Custer on Tuesday- so I'll let you know how it goes!

On Wednesday I mentioned we had the debate for the contendors for Tribal Presidency...and it went really well!!! The Student Council members involved took the leadership occasion quite seriously. I had asked them to dress up and look 'professional'- and it was awesome to see them really practice over their questions. Although they 'said' how nervous they were, I really think they did an excellent job. Ryan, the student body president had a long script to moderate the evening- and he did a fabulous job. The debate lasted about 1 1/2 hours, with Russell Means and Theresa Two Bulls as the candidates. The debate also aired on KILI radio, which was great as usual. After the event was over, however, I felt a HUGE wave of relief stream through my body- a bit like the feeling of Homecoming being over! :)

So today we had the costume contest at lunch, and we really have some creative students and faculty! The administration all planned and came together as The Addams Family (they looked great!)- so they won the "Most Unexpected". Other categories were "Most Creative" "Scariest" "Cutest" and "Funniest". An inflatable ostrich, a whoopee cushion, a tetris game piece, a crazy man, and a prep-school girl were among the winners. I shall post pictures of this (as long as the computer doesn't eat them like the junior retreat ones) :(

Tonight the Cottage is hosting an all-night scary movie fest, which I shall attend for company, but not the scares. I am also heading to a spook house in the basement of the old P. R. Hospital building. Don't worry, I'm going with a friend. :) And tomorrow I shall release all Halloween anxiety with yoga- some HSers and volunteers are planning on Saturday yoga sessions, which I think is awesome!

Okay, all for now. Gotta go check out the little kids as they parade through our hallways. Oh, and I have to give blood soon. Appropriate for Halloween every year, RCHS hosts a blood drive too! :) I'm sure I'll have a story from that, since my veins generally like to perform unanticipated feats of craziness!

Thanks for tuning in! I don't know why this just changed colors, but I sorta like it! :) Much love and blessings....

Emily

More Pictures!!!

Hello Once Again!!!

My computer is graciously allowing me to post more pictures, so I've included several from various events this fall. The order is of no consequence, basically since I'm no good at formatting them in these posts. :)

I have been doing really well here the past week. We had a 4 day 'fall break' of sorts this past weekend, and besides the Black Hills Pow Wow on Saturday, I basically chilled at my house, reading and catching up on break time (since I really didn't get a 'do nothing' break this summer...and I seem to enjoy those quite a bit). :)

I shall begin labeling my photos for you, so you're not wondering about the randomness in which they are presented.

The day after my 1/2 marathon, relaxing at Spearfish Canyon (i.e. posing for a picture)

Little man Trey at the Olive Garden, a major love in my life. :)

The Student Council members at Groundbreaking in September

The same Stu. Co. members smiling in the crowd...

Administration breaking ground at the big event

Beautiful colors of Fall- Spearfish Canyon, Northern Black Hills

My mother and father- after being the super-fans they were during my 1/2 marathon!

The senior class of '09 (hence, the girls' '0')

and the boys' '9' (aren't they wonderfully creative!)

Party on the bus- ride back from Outlaw Ranch after Senior Retreat

Saige and Marque- cowgirls at heart... well, that day anyway.

Student Body President Ryan at ground breaking.

Senior Retreat Ice-Breaker "honey if you love me"

Senior Trust Walk- a yearly tradition

Too bad they couldn't enjoy this beautiful scenery being blindfolded! :)

The whole smiling bunch of seniors!

The Senior Class of '09'- what a marvelous group of students!

So there you have it- all the pictures you've wanted to see plus more! :) That's all I have for now, but lucky for you, the Junior retreat is coming up next week and I shall be in attendance, ready with my camera! :)

This week the Stu. Co. has been busy- (well, I've been busy so far, they soon will be)- in planning for the upcoming O.S.T. (Oglala Sioux Tribe) Presidential Debate for the Tribal Presidential candidates. Every-other year Red Cloud hosts a debate, and evidently it's been pretty successful in the past. I am looking forward to it, especially since I have the great direction and help from our public relations director! Also coming up is the Halloween Carnival, which I don't think will be as big of a deal for the High School as it once was.

Speaking of Halloween, it is a well known fact that Halloween is one of the biggest celebrations of the year around here. Back in August children begin asking what you'll be dressed like for Halloween (I'm still contemplating my response), and several places around Pine Ridge create elaborate spook houses (and some places start out ahead by already being spooky in regular life) :) For example, this year our handgames and dance teams will be decorating the basement of the little gym as a spook house, and they are aided by the many stories which exist of recurring noises and footsteps, etc. often heard throughout the years. I think one story involves a perpetually bouncing basketball as well. Yikes! :)

It has also been a full week with volleyball games- one on Tuesday (in which our JV won against Crazy Horse varsity). It was fun to give them the chance to play a varsity team, but they didn't play as well as expected. The girls sometimes get down on themselves for little things, and even though it doesn't make sense to me, those are simply the dynamics we work with as coaches. :)Today we have both JV and Varsity games against Winner. I hear they're pretty good, but our girls have been playing well together in practice, so let us all hope that translates into the game situation.

It has been an interesting experience, this whole coaching business. I mean- for the most part I enjoy it (like yesterday, when Robin had to conduct a staff meeting and left sole coaching responsibility to me for 2 hours). I get along well with the girls, but at times I get frustrated by the level of play. It's not at all that they're incapable of top quality play, but it matters more what they expect of themselves, and I as a coach can only prod them along so far- I have realized that the player must also possess intrinsic motivation. This is the single reason (as I remember from my coaching methods class) that more "excellent" athletes don't exist. It takes the combination of natural skill and pure desire. And many players have one or the other, but few have both.

Ha, i believe that's one of the first times I've actually sat back to contemplate my learning from the coaching scene thus far. Feels good to share those bits of understanding. We also have a tournament this weekend in Douglas... evidently it's hard, but I always reserve the right to hope that our team will play with excellence!

Today our Stu. Co. members will be helping development with thank-you notes for the donors and participants in last month's groundbreaking. Should be fun, since I absolutely love the Stu. Co. members, and anytime we get together is a good time! :)

That's all for now. Thanks for tuning in. Oh yes, I will also mention that I have recently utilized that "blogs I'm following" portion of my dashboard (if you don't blog, disregard this jumble of words)... but if you do blog, I would love to add your blog to my dashboard.... please let me know the URL.

I am smiling from the desk in my office- waiting for Wade to come in and request to wear again the "homecoming queen" sash he found inside the plastic pumpkin on my desk. (He just now returned it, but I think he'll miss it soon enough). :) Ha.

Much love and well wishes,

Emily

Pictures!!!

Seniors w/ a freshman puppy in front

Elementary dance team float- quite adorable!

Seniors enjoying their final Homecoming, and sporting the "09"

Senior King Mike and Queen Marque

Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior Royalty

Pajama Day Dress-Up

Super-Hero Day (with the license to be creative)

One Example of such Creativity- my "Super-Cupid" outfit- with Saige

The Junior Class Hallway decorating

Seniors showing off their artwork

Sophomore boys living it up at the Bonfire

The Seniors attempt a 4-high class pyramid

Burning the "RC"- beginning a school tradition

Several sophomore and junior girls (many VB players!)

Robin (head VB coach), Me, and Danielle (Stu. Co. member, VB captain, and student on my bus route)

There you have it- a few pictures from my collection of Homecoming shots... in case the link wasn't working. For some reason my computer allowed this to happen, and if I was in the habit of thanking inanimate objects, I'd extend my gratitute to my computer. Instead, I'll say "thank God," since God seems to be a more legitimate subject of praise. :)

Lovely wishes on this beautiful Tuesday,

Emily