My onsite scoring experience was much better this time. First of all, let me say (although I know I may be tempting fate) that it couldn't have been much worse. Two things contributed more than anything else to my better experience: getting a room of my own and not eating in the conference center cafeteria most days. Both of those circumstances caused me to spend money I wasn't happy to spend, but on the other hand how can you put a price tag on peace of mind and not getting food poisoning? My estimate is that the price tag is roughly a fourth of what I'll make in stipends and reimbursements. (I won't be reimbursed for any meals in Tampa but one, as well as one each travel day.) I did make some good connections with others who teach English, at the high school level and at the college level. That is probably the best part of this experience -- meeting people and having a good exchange of ideas.
But enough is enough. I'm so happy to be finished that I could do a little dance -- if I could work up that much energy. I had considered leaving today if we wrapped up before 5:00. We didn't. I just can't manage the drive after eight hours of scoring essays, or really after (if my math is right) about sixty hours over seven days. I'm not setting my alarm, but I am sure I'll wake up plenty early. My suitcase is packed and ready to go, so I'll leave before rush hour if I'm good to go then. Otherwise, I'll leave at 9:00. Barring traffic issues, I should be home no later than 1:00 which will give me plenty of time to get squared away before my 5:00 class. Tuesday will be a nice day of doing nothing, I hope. Wednesday it's back to scoring (online) and setting up for my next two classes that start in two weeks. I can't think beyond Wednesday right now. Actually, I can't think beyond 9:00 p.m. right now. (It's 8:02 and I'm ready for bed.) No more thinking. Woohoo!
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