February 12, 2021: I have noticed myself becoming more critical of the readings and resources that we have been provided this semester. When something makes my 'pinky toe scream' it helps me learn more about myself and my teacher identity. After a suggestion from my professor, I have begun to further explore mindfulness practices and ask myself an array of questions when this feeling presents itself: Why did this upset me? why didn't I agree? What does this say about myself as a teacher and a learner? What values have created this reaction? Is there a Story here?

⇒ I often find myself returning to this comic from The Oatmeal about what happens when your core beliefs and values are challenged and how to respond to such feelings.

February 19, 2021: A recent practice that I have found incredibly helpful for reflexiveness is listening to podcasts. The podcasts I listen to aren't always about education, but about being human, sharing stories, belonging, community, vulnerability, and so much more. I believe that this practice is essential for my reflexion as it reminds me of why I want to be a teacher; what my values, beliefs, and intentions are. I want to foster the aforementioned skills and values within my classroom and life so that myself and students can utilize them when faced with difficulties or adversities within our lives.

My main intention for my career as an educator is to make a difference in the world and fill people's lives with more joy.

I listened to this podcast from Brené Brown, with Rudolph Walsh and Ashley C. Ford. Listening to this particular episode reminded me of the importance of story-telling; vulnerability; finding and using your voice; and challenging, rewriting, and finding more diverse Stories.

February 27, 2021: After a more in-depth reflection on my previous posts and experiences, I have come to the realization that mindfulness and reflection are two skills that I need to further develop before I am able to foster reflexive teaching pedagogies. This semester has opened my eyes to how important it is to commit to mindfulness, self-regulative, and vulnerable practices that you are teaching your students. When we are comfortable and competent in these skills, we are better able to explain, model, demonstrate and integrate these skills into our students' learning practices.

March 10, 2021: I have spent a significant amount of time organizing my old resources, and I have found it incredibly rewarding and insightful to look back on my past assignments and see how my values, pedagogies, and philosophies have developed over the past couple of years. I think that this practice of reflecting on my old views and approaches to learning really adds value to my currents understandings and foundations of knowledge.