Debate sections: day two. I was at school for almost 12 hours, but I know others were there longer. Annika came up to hang out at the tournament around noon, so that made the day a bit lighter. She likes to hang out at debate tournaments; she is a great ballot runner and checker, she reads through the rounds while I’m judging, and she has a sense of humor that I sometimes need when I’m around that many serious dudes. She loves helping out, too, and she likes to be in charge of things, even though the things she is in charge of are often things she makes up like puppet-naming contests.

I’m glad she hangs out at tournaments with me. It’s kind of bonding time, and she gets to see that I work hard. She gets to see my team as role models – smart young people who are put together and thoughtful. She gets to meet other adults who ask her questions and treat her well and I’m glad for that.

My team ended up having a strong showing at sections. I have four students going to state – two in Lincoln Douglas and two in Congress. Forest Lake took home three of the big giant sections plaques this year. I’m proud of their work, especially in a year that has been so difficult. They persevered through a lot.

It’s been a very long few days. I know this is not my most creative or exciting post. I have a lot more on my mind – I even took notes to write about it! – but I’m too tired tonight. I don’t even have enough energy to worry about all the things I have to do. I am mainly writing because I made the commitment to write every day for 5 minutes or more. I have kept the streak alive for 6 days. I’m pretty happy with that, so now I’m going to embrace the exhaustion and go to sleep.