Student Teaching - Day 0

Well, I’ve been settled here in Brainerd for the past week now and tomorrow I finally get to work. It’s nothing major, not even the official start of teacher workshops. I’m just going into the high school tomorrow at 9:00am to work with Beth on a few syllabi as well as whatever other tasks she gives me. While Wednesday is the big start day, with a schedule full from 7:30am to 8:00pm, tomorrow really is the start of everything.

To say I’m nervous is an understatement: I’m downright terrified. However, there’s also that excitement that is building within me to get started. I feel that, especially next Tuesday when the kids finally arrive at school for the first day, as soon as I get into the classroom I will remember all the reasons why I love teaching and working with students. It’s truly one of the most important and amazingly rewarding jobs someone can do. I am going to have an impact on the next generation, it’s a crazy notion! However, is that impact going to be a positive one, or a negative one?

When I was visiting TrekNorth before I left Bemidji, I saw a piece of paper taped on the door of the Director, Dan McKeon. This is what it said:

I’ve come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element in the classroom. It’s my personal approach that creates the climate; it’s my daily mood that makes the weather. As a teacher, I possess a tremendous power to make a child’s life miserable or joyous. I can be a tool of torture, or an instrument of inspiration. I can humiliate or humor, hurt or heal. In all situations it is my response that decides whether a crisis will be escalated or de-escalated, or a child is humanized or de-humanized. – Haim Ginott.

Reading and thinking about this has really made me realize just how much power I have in the classroom. As Spider-Man would say, with great power comes great responsibility. Now, it is my responsibility to be the best teacher for these students that I can be.

21 Memories of 21

Dan McKeon said during the TrekNorth graduation that at the end of every winter the snow melts, the birds and animals return, and everything comes to life. The Earth does it's part, and we have hope. It's a time when people emerge past their winter blues and begin to feel alive and renewed once again.

Then again, for those of us who enjoy winter, this is the start of our depression as we eagerly await mother nature's cold and snow, with it's promise of ski trails yet to be skied. Also, there's that in-between period of winter and spring when everything's still dead but there's no snow to cover it up, only sand, salt, and dirt.

Regardless, while I do feel renewed once spring begins in earnest, I would say that for me hope always renews itself on July 21st of every year. Something about my birthday always brings me a new sense of optimism, like New Years or the first time on skis every season.

Looking ahead to turning 22 this Thursday, I can't help but take a look back at 21. It started with my golden birthday (along with all the adventures that I do and do not remember from turning 21), and has been quite a journey every since. I've had some incredible highs and some incredible lows this year, and though it might sound cliche I don't think I've ever faced more challenges in my life than this year. It's been a year for personal growth, setbacks, and above all learning. I'm not the person I was a year ago, but despite everything I either am a better person for it, or will be.

What a journey 21 has been. I've endured challenges I couldn't have comprehended; sought new limits for myself physically and mentally; made new friends that changed my life; had experiences I will never forget; hopefully made a positive impact on the lives of others; and I even found forgiveness in my heart for someone I never thought I could forgive.

So today I thought I'd post 21 memories of 21. This isn't by any account a complete list, some are good and some are bad, but these are memories that have stuck out to me this year. These aren't in any particular order with the exceptions of numbers 5-1, which are the greatest memories from the year.

21. 2011 Green Bay Marathon - After nearly two years removed from my last marathon, I returned to Green Bay, fought Packers fans and a nasty head wind, and managed to set a new personal best of 3:32. Great weekend with Kevin, Reed, Paige, and Caryn, and a lot of fun memories. I'm not shipping up to Boston yet, but I'm working my way there.

20. Nights at the Green Mill with Ashley Tenney - I love all my friends, but if someone gets friend of the year it's Ashley. She became one of my best friends and was always there to pick me up when I needed her. Whether it was as friends, Senate colleagues, or by the end of the year Senate Co-Presidents, whenever we wanted to get away and bitch, talk about our life goals, ambitions, and trials, or just have fun, we went to Green Mill. Half off appetizers and bingo will never be the same.

19. Ashley Tenney and Nathan Svare's Wedding - It was simply beautiful to watch two of my best friends get married as well as having the honor of playing a part in their day (playing my violin). I even got a gift out of it, so maybe someday I'll beat the two of them at Catan.

18. Opening night at the Sanford Center (Beavers vs UND) - It was something else to finally see the then-BREC open. I still remember lobbying for it as a freshman with Senate, and point to that as the reason I dedicated myself to the organization. A fun game, great friends, and a chance to say I helped change the city of Bemidji.

17. Recalibration - One word that will forever define my term as Co-President. I don't think I've ever been more defeated then after hearing how a 10% cut to BSU affected those I had come to know over my past four years at the Recalibration Forum. On the other hand, never was I more proud of my Senate for coming together to put together a great response. It's not what I ever wanted to deal with it, but I believe in the right leaders at the right time, and I hope that I was indeed that person.

16. TrekNorth Track and Field Sub-Sections - My first season as a track coach, coinciding with the first season of existence for Track at TrekNorth, was a great learning experience. It brings a smile to my face now when I think of the great races and events everyone had after a season of hard work, and of the great foundation that was laid this year.

15. 2010 Paul Bunyan Triathlon - My first olympic distance triathlon ended with me getting second place in my age group. The road to Kona and the Ironman World Championship is long, but after this race I'm more dedicated than ever to making it a reality.

14. Kick up the Dirt 5k - Look, I've been to many races where someone has been taken away in an ambulance. It happens all the time. But it's something else when it's one of your best friends who's being carried away. Watching my friend have a severe allergic reaction to something was one of the scariest moments of my life, but I think she was glad I was at her side most of the time. It's moments like this that make you truly appreciate how precious life is.

13. TrekNorth Nordic Sections - I remember my senior year of sections when I crossed the finish line and realized I would never make the State meet. I was heartbroken. My first year coaching that scenario replayed itself as our top skier crossed the line just a few places shy of her goal. Being there at the finish line as it happened and being able to be there for her sticks with me to this day. It's reasons like that I want to be a coach, not just to see people succeed, but to be there and tell them that even if they fall short, as long as they gave it their all I'm proud of them.

12. 2011 American Birkebeiner - Two words: f$#@ing cold. Frostbite, shivering uncontrollably for an hour after the race, and my hands freezing and thawing repeatedly during the race stick with me. But I qualified for wave 1 next year, so it was worth it.

11. 2011 Minnesota Finlandia - My first 50k skate race on what has become my home snow. It was one of the most fun races I've ever had and blazing fast. Plus a lucky 7th place finish and something to build off of for next year.

10. Spring Delegates and the State Chair Election - Though I fell short, having the honor of being nominated to lead an organization that I care so deeply about was very special. I couldn't have done it without an amazing group of people sporting signs signs, words of encouragement, and their unwavering support in me. Let's just not talk about the sequestering.

9. Last day of TrekNorth Nordic practice - The end of my first season of coaching skiing nearly brought tears to my eyes. Such an amazing group of kids that showed heart and dedication throughout the season, but as sad as it was to think that I might never see them all like that again, I'll always have great memories.

8. LCM Nights - In a year when I was challenged, I found strength through stronger faith. Getting involved in LCM was what helped me get through the year. Playing my violin again, amazing friends like Leif, Kristi, and Ashley, listening to PJ guide us spiritually (and telling bad puns), and a renewed sense of purpose all helped make every Wednesday night special.

7. First time coaching at the Giant's Ridge Invite - One of the greatest days of my life. It was a lot of fun to go watch my kids compete in the largest high school ski race in North America. A great group of kids, a cold but excellent day, and the promises of many more years of this race to come.

6. 21st Golden Birthday - The day the year began. From what I remember it was quite the adventure that started in Eau Claire at Kevin's house and continued to Water Street, moved back to the Cities for a Twins game with my family, Ben, and Mary, and ended with the best friends a person could ask for at the end of the night. It was a sign of the craziness that the year would bring.

The Top 5

5. Bemidji State of Mind - When I put this video together, I wasn't looking for fame (or infamy), but rather I just wanted to say thank you to the city of Bemidji for all my experiences. The crowd loving it at the Beaver Film Fest, watching it blow up YouTube, and the cover story I could never have expected. I won't defend my singing abilities, but I will defend the lyrics. The lake will make you feel brand new, and the trees will inspire you, so let's hear it Bemidji.

4. Homecoming 2010 - What. A. Weekend. There was the cross country invite in Jamestown and the shenanigans that followed that evening, winning the Homecoming 5k and celebrating the entire morning as the town went crazy, then watching the Beavers win the game and go in the lake, and finally ending it all downtown for a party. It was an epic weekend in the life of Michael Meehlhause.

3. Last Student Senate Meeting - After four years, my career in Senate came to an end. It was a journey I will never forget and the greatest honor to serve as Co-President of this great university. I couldn't have done it without amazing people along the way and the best Co-Presidents I could ever serve with in Ashley and Kyle. As I said before, I believe in the right leader for the right time, and I hope I fit that profile. Four years isn't long enough to spend with with a group like this.

2. Bemidji State Commencement - Minus student teaching, it was the closing of a major chapter in my life and the lives of many of my friends. Sitting up on the stage, looking out and thinking of all the stories everyone has that has made them who they are today, really put everything into perspective. Giving the speech was an amazing experience, and I even put a bit of my rap in it. Though the fellowship has come to an end, we will always be united by what transpired on the shores of Lake Bemidji.

1. West Yellowstone - My favorite memory of the year. There's memories of the trip itself, from almost dying on the way in a blizzard, to the extreme cold and continuing blizzard throughout the trip, and all the hours logged skiing on the beautiful trails. However, what's most important is what I got out of the experience. I went into my coaching practicum with TrekNorth not sure if teaching was right for me and came out remembering why I wanted to teach in the first place: I wanted to be a positive influence and help impact the lives of kids. This was the start of an amazing experience with TrekNorth, one that I hope continues in the future.

Student Senate Farewell Speech

I meant to put this up earlier, but this is my farewell speech to Student Senate.

Well, here we are. Four years ago if you had told me that I would have the privilege of serving as your Co-President, I probably wouldn't have believed you. We've been through a lot together both this past year and the last four years; through many hard days and nights and countless times of hope and joy. This organization has grown to mean so much to me and has helped me to grow as a leader, a teacher, and a person. It wasn't easy, but whether it was getting the Sanford Center built, trying to save the Track team, establishing a Green Fee, going Tobacco Free, or responding to Recalibration, each issue that Student Senate took on taught me just how much of a difference students could make.

I couldn't have done all this without the support of amazing people along the way. My parents who taught me the value of hard work, former Presidents, Vice Presidents, and Co-Presidents who lead by example, our adviser for being a mentor along the way, administration for always being so student centered, my fellow graduating seniors for the opportunity to grow with you, and the best Co-Presidents I could have had the honor of serving with. Most of all, it was anyone who walked into this room with a desire to get involved and make a difference. To everyone in this room and everyone I've had the pleasure of serving with during my time here, you're more than just my friends, you're my family. Four years isn't long enough to spend with people as dedicated and as passionate as you.

What have I learned here? More than we have time to recount, but I want to leave you with these enduring lessons. Don't give up on your personal beliefs and passions, or more importantly on each other. Never stop learning from one another, and remember that we are all in this together. If you work really hard and have respect for others, amazing things will happen. Most of all, never forget the reason why you are all here; it's not about personal ambitions, or the money, or the title. It's about the students, for we are their voice.

And it is in that spirit that I say thank you for all the memories and all that I have learned from you. It has been the ultimate honor and my richest reward. David Andrade and Charlie Woodson, it's your turn.

City Council Farewell Speech

My speech from my last Bemidji City Council meeting representing the BSUSA Student Senate.

I've been in Bemidji for nearly four years now. I came here from the Twin Cities to continue my education at Bemidji State because I could sense that there was something special about this area. I've seen some amazing things during my time here as a student. I've seen fellow students get up at 8am on a Saturday morning to do service projects and give back to the community, had the honor of wearing the famous (or infamous) red and black Paul Bunyan sweaters for Bemidji day at the capital, and watched the university and the city come together to build a regional events center with an eye towards the future. I've gotten to see first hand the devotion of its citizens towards the nature around us at Lake Bemidji State Park, skiing the great Minnesota Finlandia, and experiencing first hand the concept of a city as a park. And I've seen this city's dedication and belief in our future through its education not just at BSU, but also NTC, BHS, and TrekNorth. You see, Bemidji is more than just a city, it's an idea. An idea where people come together in times of need and hardship, where a Cinderella run to a national title captures a nation's spirit, and where its culture can win over a person's heart.

I came to this city to continue my education, and what I found was a home. I don't know where my journey in life will take me, but I can think of no better place than here. My charge to you is to keep the spirit of Bemidji alive in your work and everyday lives. This place is truly special. As some crazy music video would say, the lake will make you feel brand new, the trees will inspire you, so let's hear it for Bemidji.

Bemidji State of Mind - Official Video

It's been a while since I last blogged. Here's why.

February Adventures

Yeah, it's been quite a while since I last blogged. Lots of stuff has been going on in my life, so here we go.

We'll start with the Bemidji State side of my life. Spring break is coming up after this week, and for the first time in all of my college career I won't be going anywhere out of town. That's because there is an event this coming weekend that I've literally been waiting for four years for. I grew up a big University of Minnesota Golden Gophers hockey fan, and I remember watching them win both their national titles with my dad. Heck, I used to dream of playing for them even though I have never in my life played hockey. For a person who really only cared about hockey related to the Gophers, they were kind of a big deal. Then I decided to attend Bemidji State, and my allegiances changed instantly. Ever since that day, I've dreamed of the day the Golden Gophers would come up to Bemidji to play the Beavers.

Last winter I got to see the Beavers get that first win ever against the Gophers down in Minneapolis, but this is what I've been waiting for. This weekend it's the Gophers and the Beavers in Bemidji in the building that I helped get built. I have literally been waiting for this day, and now it is almost here. That place is going to be rocking like I've never seen it, and James Foster himself is coming back over to catch the action. The parents will also be up, so it should just be a crazy weekend all around.

Other than this excitement, this week should also see the Recalibration story arch of my life starting to come to an end. I've put together Senate's draft response and this Wednesday we will be debating it. It should be interesting and I hope that a lot of students come to voice their opinion. After this is done, it will be on to hearing people talk about the tobacco-free campus policy starting in April. I'm ready for the Recalibration discussion to be done as it has really been bogging down my mind for most of the semester.

I'm also putting together my plan to run for State Chair of MSUSA. I'm scared, nervous, but also excited for the idea of a campaign again. There are now two other great candidates running against me, but I plan on just putting my best foot forward, telling them my plans for the organization, then let them decide. If I get it, I don't have to worry about a job for the next year and I have a great opportunity. If I don't, I'll be ok knowing that I went for it and continue to contribute to MSUSA as an alumni. I'll definitely hit on my campaign in another blog spot soon.

Moving on to my favorite aspect of my life: skiing. The TrekNorth season has officially come to a close, and it was truly a season to remember. I went into coaching not really sure what to expect, and since I've been on the fence with staying in education or moving on to higher education for my career, my experience could have really pushed me either way. I definitely did not expect my decision to work with TrekNorth to be without a doubt one of the best decisions of my life. I had more fun than I could possibly imagine and discovered my passion for coaching and teaching kids. The kids I worked with are the best group of kids I've ever encountered. They all accepted me and made such a positive impact on my life.

The season's end was a powerful experience for me. The last day of practice was a little emotional for me especially not knowing when I would see all these kids again. I think I've really discovered not just what my passion in life is, but also the best location for that passion. I don't know where life will take me, but if I have the opportunity to return to TrekNorth, whether it be for coaching or maybe teaching, I will take it in a heartbeat. There's a lot of great memories from this season, and they will be ones that I cherish for the rest of my life.

Finally, the ski season has ended in all seriousness for me. The Minnesota Finlandia was by far one of the best races I've ever had. It was the first time I did a 50k skate race, the previous longest was the 35k Vasaloppet, and to end it in 7th place was phenomenal. I was also just 10 minutes from the leader, and it really inspires me to get better so that I can someday win one of those coveted axes. It was also great to see the TrekNorth kids have great days too across the races, especially Kaitlin taking 3rd overall in the women 50k! The week before at the Vasa, I was able to exorcise some demons and finally beat Torvi again. Finally, yesterday I skied the American Birkebeiner and had a pretty good race. It was a lot colder than I expected and my hands were in a bit of pain after from freezing and thawing a few times during the race. Though I improved from last year, I also realized that I am not where I know I can be. Ethan got 24th overall, which is phenomenal! At the same time, I look at him and see how I can better dedicate myself to getting better. It's going to be a long off season, but I'm going to come back next year better than I have ever been.

I think that's a good update for now. Definitely a lot going on in my life, but life just wouldn't be exciting, or dare I say "epic", if it wasn't for stuff like this.

2011 and the Joys of Coaching

I've been sporadically blogging since I started this, but I'm hoping to blog more often in 2011. One year ago, after 2009 was one of the worst years of my life, I vowed to make 2010 the best one yet. It started out better than it could have expected, between my best academic semester ever, nearly winning Skier of the Year in the Skinnyski Series, winning Co-Presidency, and finding love. However, after my heart was broken the year was up and down, ending on a down note. While 2010 was an improvement over 2009, I remember how it ended and hope to make 2011 more consistently good.

Yesterday was the Giants Ridge Invitational (formerly Mesabi East Invite) which is the largest ski race in North America with over 1100 skiers from all over the country. It was also the first time my past (Irondale ski team) and my present (TrekNorth ski team) would be competing on the same snow. It was an amazing day for both the kids and myself, and a great learning experience overall. For a second year ski program, the kids show a lot of heart in the face of tough, cold conditions. The varsity team was put in the classic field, with most of them racing in classic for only the second or third time ever, while for one of our skiers it was his first 5k race ever. Baptism by fire, but I'm so proud of the kids for what they did. Irondale also had a phenomenal day and has a very special team this year, so major kudos to Marsh, Erickson, and Torvi for all the work they've done.

I can't even begin to describe how much I love coaching. I honestly think this is the best decision I've ever made! It's amazing to watch kids transition to having never been on skis before to competing in the largest ski race in North America. The team has such a great attitude and loves skiing, and it's really left a positive influence on me. There's a long road to go, but TrekNorth is on the right path. As a coach, I picked up a lot from yesterday, from what should be in the warchest brought to every race, to a checklist I should have of how to stay warm and coach in the middle of the trail. Just an amazing experience all around.

With classes beginning this week, the Minnesota Skinnyski Series picking up again in Duluth next weekend, another TrekNorth race in between, and Student Senate starting again, this is the beginning of what I feel is going to be a special semester. This might be my last semester in Bemidji, and I'm going to make the best of it.