A New Year- Middle of the Year?

I am embarassed that my last post was in October. Fortunately, my portable doesn't stink anymore, but it does get very, very warm, and then the air comes on and it gets very, very cold. This is not a good thing, but due to the infinite wisdom of the energy conservators at the district level, I am incapable of controlling my climate in my room. The computer has control- "I'm sorry I can't do that, Dave." I guess the future is here and now.
I have just enjoyed two weeks out of school, and I am gearing up for the big return. I know that after the first day back it is going to seem like I never left, but I am looking forward to the energy and enthusiasm that so many of my students carry along with them. I am also looking forward to hearing my colleagues holiday stories, and finding out what all has gone on while we have been away. I am also looking forward to having my "office" back, even it does blow hot and cold intermittently.
The new year brings promise. Mid year brings stress. The dichotomy between the calendar year and the school year seems especially obvious this time of year. The world is all shiny and new as the calendar page gets flipped, but the school year is heading into testing, and the downhill slope of the journey. I enjoy this dynamic tension, and I am hoping that the optimism of new beginnings will successfully fuel the conclusion of the school year!