So... How do Teachers Relax?

I have been teaching my own classes since August 15, 2011. That's just over 3 months now. The first month I found myself stressing over all the little details of teaching. Every time the weekend came around I panicked. I couldn't help but wonder "Do I have time to finish grading these essays? I really should hand them back as soon as possible." Let's just say, my first month as an official teacher was not-so-pleasant.

However, the end of September hit and I made a decision. I needed join an organized activity. At first I set my sights on fencing lessons. Then, as I was browsing Google one evening, I discovered a girls ice hockey league nearby. One thing you should know about me, I love to play hockey. My brother taught me how to play when I was just a little girl. We may have shattered a lot of windows, but I my brother and I have a passion that we can never be torn away from. We love watching hockey, playing hockey and even having our own fantasy hockey teams online.

It was at the end of December that I joined my first ever ice hockey team. I play in a league that does not have checking, which means it is an extremely safe version of hockey. We practice once a week and play a game once every two weeks. I have found that when I return home after a game my muscles feel relaxed for the first time since my last practice. Everything about school melts away when I play hockey.

In addition, I continue to watch my favorite National Hockey League team, the Detroit Red Wings, at least one night a week. I have found that the game relaxes me, and the two twenty minute intermissions are a great time to get a little grading done!