This is a small bit of advice to any first year teacher out there. Book and take a vacation during your first quarter. I was told to do it and did for two reasons. First, it seemed like good advice. Second, I already wanted to go to DC and / or Charlottesville for Labor Day Weekend; the advice just gave me an better excuse. I feel more relaxed and ready to tackle things now. It was really relaxing, especially after having practically no vacation this summer. Go somewhere fun, visit friends, whatever. Just book it months in advance -- then you've got no way out of it. I highly recommend it.

More on the trip tomorrow.