Subbing in Middle School

Since my teaching load at Portland Community College is being reduced due to budget cuts,  I decided to take a subbing gig at a private middle school to earn  extra travel money. Hired to teach French to 6th and 7th graders for about a week, I researched classroom management techniques and consulted a friend who teaches middle school. Two key words stood out. Relationship and Distraction.  I talked a lot to the kids, shared personal anecdotes, and when they got off task, I distracted them until they got back on track. My xylophone succeeded in getting their attention many times.  It all felt like a fancy dance improvising the steps and hoping for the best. By the end of the week, I grew fond of these young students and admired their energy and enthusiasm. Maybe I will dance with them again some time soon.

Rediscovered local French Restaurant

Last night we went out for dinner with some friends. They asked us to pick the restaurant. They always do because Bill finds interesting dining spots from his idyllic view in the drivers seat of a TriMet Bus. As he was driving the  number 35 on Macadam on Saturday, he spotted Cafe du Berry. Later, Bill texted me regarding my opinion of Cafe du Berry, 6439 SW Macadam Avenue in Portland, Oregon. (503)244-5551.  www.cafeduberrypdx.com  How could I have forgotten? I love that place! One of my friends even asked the owner to cater his wedding!

As the name suggests Cafe du Berry is a French restaurant unique in that it is owned by a Vietnamese family.
My salmon swimming in sorrel cream sauce was divine. They also do a fantastic brunch. French toast is the house specialty. Top it off with a Mimosa. Cheers! The picture below was taken somewhere else, but you get the idea!