Thursday, December 31, 2020

End of the year questions

 Since Facebook no longer does Notes, I am going to try going back to posting here.

 
What was a new discovery you made this year?
--Even very well established knowledge can be looked at in new ways, even by those of us who grew up in the old ways. My favorite example was a webinar on Decolonizing Thoreau.
 
What achievement are you most proud of from this year?
--Speaking out for faculty in more vulnerable positions, particularly about health and safety issues. Also teaching a large class and communicating to my students that I cared about them.
 
What was your favorite purchase of the year and why?
--Warm fleece backed pants. Also a very special jigsaw puzzle from Liberty Puzzles: https://www.libertypuzzles.com/wooden-jigsaw.../ocean-life
 
What was a new habit or routine you created this year that has improved your efficiency at home or work?
--Walking around the block every morning before breakfast. I only miss one or two days a month. Also going to the supermarket only once every two weeks.
 
What did you ask for help with this year where you're glad you did?
--I told my kids I wanted a fuss made over my 65 birthday even though I used to not like birthday celebrations.
 
What's a skill you have learned or gained confidence with this year?
--Growing my own microgreens. More obviously, teaching online.
 
What simple pleasures have you especially enjoyed this year?
--So many! Sunshine in my living room. Foggy mornings. Tea.
 
What's a type of technology you've integrated into your life this year and it's working out well for you?
--Zoom, both for work and family time.
 
What did you change your mind about this year?
--Using group projects in teaching.
 
What did you try that didn't work out, but the process of trying it moved your thinking forward in a helpful way?
--A grant proposal for international virtual exchange (my students will do a group project with students in Germany this spring even though we didn't get the grant).
 
How has what you enjoy shifted this year?
--I definitely have learned to enjoy staying home more.