Fascinating, energetic speaking

I have been complimented by some of my students about my teaching style. Common descriptions will include words like energetic, passionate, caffeine overdose (from a co-worker). I just try to make it something that people will pay attention to, rather than be lulled to sleep by a monotone.

I ran across this post at my favorite links blog, Neatorama. It's a video clip of a talk by Clifford Stoll. He may not follow the "rules" of how to give a good speech but his style keeps you watching. Now, I don't necessarily believe I am in his league as far as the energy and passion (let alone intelligence) he shows in this clip, but I realized that my classes occasionally looks like this clip.

Crazy, man. Crazy.

Things that have happened since my last post:

• CM has decided to start climbing me like an indoor rock climber while I hold her. She digs her toes into my belt and grabs hold of my shirt. I can literally move my hands/arms away from her and she will stand there, the little cliff climber.


• People give me more courtesy when I have her. People let me through doors first, they let me in line first at the checkout, etc. I'm not saying I don't get my share of rudeness, but prior to CM, I didn't get much politeness either.


• My parents are spending a great deal of money on CM. We'll get about one box (or more) per week w/ clothes and/or toys in it. Mrs. and I knew that this stuff does cost money but we didn't know how much until one of the vendors sent the prices on the receipt w/ the order. I'll leave it at that. (Side note: Mom, save some money for the next grandkid or two, also!)