About My Summer Vacation

I know that English teachers often ask students to write about their summer experiences. And if my students choose not to write on this topic, that will be fine. But I do think it is important to reflect over the summer months. I think it is important to consider whether the time spent over the summer was of any real value. Students often say in one circumstance or another that they're bored. I seriously cannot remember the last time that I was bored. I have too many interests to find myself bored. I enjoy photography, computers, reading all sorts of things, and spending time with my family.

Two summers ago I took the entire summer off. I wasn't bored -- I just needed more things to keep me busy and to feel that I was accomplishing something significant. I found that when I got back to school in the fall, I felt a lot better about myself. So now I teach some fun classes at Columbus Academy during the summer months. This last summer I taught digital photography, webpage design, and computer animation. It was a great learning experience for me, and I got paid to do it. The money gave me a chance to invest in some camera equipment that I've been wanting.

I hear people talking about how they can't wait till they retire. But I am not that anxious to retire. As long as my health is good, I hope to continue to work. I just heard Dick LeBeau’s acceptance speech for the football Hall of Fame. I think Dick LeBeau is in his 70s and still coaching football. He said in his speech, "never let anyone tell you that you're too old." Look at Joe Paterno. He coaches football for Penn State, and he is in his mid 80s. I suppose if you hate your job that it's a good idea to retire if you can. But I think you ought to look for something else to do as long as you have good health.