"She is so cruel......."

These are the words that came from the mouth of my precious 6th grade son. The sharpest of my children. He's emotional. Strong-willed. Romantic. Whose spirit is being compromised and nearly broken by a teacher he cannot relate to.

It's been a tough 6th grade year for him....as it should be. For a time.

6th grade is difficult. No longer do teachers allow homework to be turned in several weeks late...and not take points off. No longer do teachers stand over the kids....imploring them to get their work done. And give them full credit. No longer do teachers send multiple notices home about events, meetings and opportunities.

No. 6th grade is when students are thrown into the pool and expected to swim. Right away.

Granted, they give the kids some grace at the beginning of the year. Reinforcing good behavior and training them on middle school procedures and expectations. But after a week or so....that's it. They are on their own.

Very little grace. Very little lee-way. And no emotion. And my sweet Joshua is having a hard time with this. We have had several emotional moments this school year. Tears. Pleading to be taken out of her class. Off the team. And out of the school. He wants out. And he can hardly think about anything else.

Of course, he needs to learn responsibility. But that's not what I'm referring to. I'm talking about a lady who doesn't offer a lot of positive feedback. Who doesn't seem very caring.

Last night, it all came out again. The hurt. The anguish. The frustration. The tears. And all I could do was sit and watch. There was nothing I could do for him, but listen. And tell him we were praying. And love him.

He wants to switch schools so badly, he can't stand it. He wants to go with me each day. And while I really have no fundamental problem with that, I want to make sure we are making that choice (should we choose to make it) for the right reasons. I don't want to reinforce to Josh that it's acceptable to run from a situation....just because we're uncomfortable. Sometimes, God wants us to endure such trials, so we are more focused on Him. To refine us. To challenge us in our faith. To teach us to rely fully on Him.

But it grieves me to know he is so unhappy. To hear him say his teacher is 'cruel.' That's a very harsh word. (And I have no doubt Josh knows exactly what that words means). To be miserable going to school. To feel as if he has no freedom in his own skin. To have no proverbial 'wriggle' room.

So, we're praying about this. We want the Lord to be glorified.

We want to be clear in what He wants us to do.

The week where 'Giving it all to the Lord so I don't have to take responsibility for the outcome' became a reality...

Ok...yeah, that title is ridiculously long, but it is more than pertinent to where I am professionally and spiritually.

Our new Pastor, Mel, has truly been a gift from God. A true servant. A more Godly man than I can put into words. Approachable. Has quite the sense of humor. Yet presents the Word of God in such a way that I literally lose track of time....and lose track of myself in God's grace and mercy.

I have been reminded in these last weeks of hearing God's Word that I am truly nothing without Him. As many times as I've tried to bear my own burdens and failed, one would think, by now, I would have learned to plant them firmly at Jesus' feet and let Him take care of them. Yet sometimes, I forget and feel as if I know what's best for me....and worrying somehow seems to be the perfect response....and I need to be in complete control of my own life....

The Lord is using Pastor Mel and his precious Word to begin the refining process. You see, gold will never be perfect or beautiful until it is refined in the fire. The fire removes all of the impurities....causing the precious metal to shine in brilliance, reflecting the image of the person who is doing the refining. My spirit is like that gold.....it needs to be refined. All of the impurities of life....the worry, the regret, the guilt, the frustration, the insecurity, the busyness, and whatever else may be blocking that perfect, pure, love-relationship with God, must be burned out. And once that process is complete...what is left is a perfect reflection of Jesus....My Savior and Lord.

That's what I want. I want whoever looks at me to see Him. I want whoever talks with me to hear the voice of Jesus.

This last week, in our faculty meeting, our Principal discussed several things to us...One of which was the fact that, with two new middle schools opening, more than half of our staff would be displaced and transferred to another school. This transfer process is based solely on seniority, which I knew. And because I am a brand new teacher, I have no rights, so to speak. I knew that, as well. But for some reason, hearing it Thursday afternoon....and facing the reality that I may have to start all over again next school year, in different school, with different co-workers, made me want to cry full-blown Snoopy tears right there in Faculty meeting.

But on the way home, I was reminded of what Pastor Mel told us...."When I don't give everything over to God, I am taking responsibility for its outcome." Ouch! Had I really messed up already? Yeah, I guess I had. By worrying over my placement for next school year, I was essentially telling God He had no idea what He was doing and clearly did not need to be in control of my life.

That reality, and the sinfulness in my thinking, is causing tears to well up in my eyes as I type this.

This refining process is going to be painful. But in order to be more like Jesus, He has to have His way with me. And that means giving up myself and giving Him free reign to do and to act according to His will. This is not going to be an easy road, but I am taking comfort in the fact that God will never allow the intensity of the refining to exceed my ability to bear it.

I am claiming Zechariah 13:9, Malachi 3:2-4, and Psalm 66 today.

Not even sure where to begin...

Here I am....

Sitting at my computer, with the Rays/Red Sox game on the Tube. Trey lying on my bed watching the game and Daniel walking around with the books he checked out of the public library. Julia is watching TV somewhere. Joe and Josh are on the computer playing. My house is comfortable. My home is blessed beyond measure....God is good.

I checked out the date of my last blog entry. July 25. A very long time ago, but yet, only seems like last week. The time, these days, seems to fly by at such a rapid pace, I can barely keep up.

This school year has had its share of ups and downs, both personally and professionally. My children, while now doing well, began the year with a few bumps in the road. My students at school seemed to start the year well and have now decided they don't want to submit to authority and are making bad decisions on a regular basis. All of this keeps me in a running conversation with my Lord. I thank God every day for the ability to just talk to Him. I don't need an appointment. I don't have to worry about His availability. I don't have to worry about whether I'm bugging him with stupid stuff. He just wants to spend time with me. And it's precious.

Now, here we are at October 11. A little more than halfway through my second semester as a student at UGA and exactly halfway into my first semester as a teacher.

Tomorrow is October 12 and it's a very special day for me. You see, on this day 40 years ago, my parents professed their love for one another, promising to stand by each other until death do they part.....and they've kept their covenant with God.

Thank you, Mom and Dad, for your love. For your commitment to each other. And for being the greatest parents in the world. Happy Anniversary!

I wish I could say I will try to keep this blog going, but unfortunately, our lives make it very difficult. We'll see.

I just gotta tell how cool the Lord is......

First, let me say....I apologize for the lack of posts lately. Ever since taking the Middle School teaching position, I've been thrust into seminars and new teacher training. (By the way, I'm not mentioning the name of the school or the county in which it is located, for privacy reasons......)

But suffice it to say, God is awesome!!!

Ever since I accepted the position, I have felt peace. Peace, like no other. I have not had a single hesitation about my decision to teach at this particular middle school....even though it is a 22 mile drive, with gas prices the way they are. Even though it is not the same county my children attend school. Even though we will be on slightly different academic calendars.

Peace.

But, just for good measure, the Lord has given me confirmation that the decision I made has matched His Will.

Besides the fact that one of my Sunday School friends teaches at this school.....

Last week, I attended a two day co-teaching seminar, to familiarize myself with what co-teaching looks like. It was very interesting. And one of my co-teachers was there. She and I met...and hit it off immediately. Her name is Michelle and she is cute, young and energetic. In her second year of teaching. And absolutely loves kids. During one of the breaks, we went in to see the Counselor. She wanted to get a copy of the team roster of kids. The Counselor handed her the list of kids names and Michelle said..."Great, now I can begin praying for them."

Wow.

Eight little words opened a huge door of conversation for us. We were able to spend a good portion of our breaks over those two days talking about the Lord.....understanding His Will....and being a life witness to the kids we are charged with. It was incredible.

And this last week, I've spent every day with all of the other 'new' teachers at our school, getting to know them...and being 'inducted' into the County. It's been a great week. Several times this week, we've talked about prayer...and being in God's Will. Open and easy conversation. Thank you, Lord.

And now today. Today, we were at our school for our own orientation in our facility. All of the Special Ed. teachers got together for an impromptu meeting with our Department Chair and Lead Support Teacher. We chatted. They shared. They encouraged. It was a very relaxing and comforting meeting. I feel very at ease with my role at the school. Now, that doesn't mean issues won't come up. Of course they will. But to begin on such a solid foundation is such a blessing.

Now, I'm on Facebook...and have been able to hook up with some of my new teacher friends at school. One of which is my Special Ed. Department Head. Most of us ladies put our maiden names into our profile so our high school and college friends can find us. I saw the maiden name of my Department Head.....She just so happens to be the Aunt of one of my favorite teenagers, Jacob. Jacob's older brother is dating one of my favorite college students....Katye.

I will be teaching alongside several people who are professing Believers in Christ! It is almost unfathomable to me.

God really is THAT cool.

Always learning...

The Lord has taught me so many things...

How to love those that aren't the most lovable...

How to be patient when patience is the last thing on my mind...

How to be quiet so I can really listen to what others are saying...

How to be productive, when I really don't want to be...

How to be strong with strength that is not my own...

How to have faith, when all I want to do is ask questions...

And I question a lot of things. I'm not the most trusting person in the world. I can be cynical. Pessimistic (according to my dear husband, but I call it realistic). And cautious. I'm not in to adventures and I don't like surprises.

But trying to find a job this summer has been hard. I've been frustrated. Down. Insecure. I've been hopeful. Vigilant. Prayerful. I feel I've been ready for whatever would come my way.

But nothing prepared me for what has happened this week. I had an interview at a middle school in a neighboring county on Monday. I had heard many nice things about this particular school, its administration and faculty. But because I have no teaching experience, I wasn't very optimistic I would even be granted an interview, so when the interview was scheduled, I was excited, yet guarded.

Guarded. That's a great word to describe my emotions. Don't get too excited. Don't get too downhearted. Guarded. That's me.

I walked into the Principal's office, shook his hand and was introduced to two teachers who would be interviewing me as well. And as the Lord would have it, one of the them is the wife of one of Trey's teachers last year.

Small world. So, we had that common thread right off the bat.

The interview went well...from what little vantage point I have. I was comfortable. At ease. And calm. My heart was racing for a time, but quickly returned to a normal state. I realized I had nothing to lose. I would answer whatever questions they asked to the best of my ability and the rest was up to the Lord. Whatever happened would be His will. Not mine.

For 45 minutes we talked, then I was given a tour of the building by one of the secretaries. Large school. Over crowded. 52 modular units. Wow.

After the tour, I was invited back into his office where I was quickly and immediately offered the position of Special Education Collaborative Teacher, specializing in Language Arts.

Um, I'm sorry. Would you please repeat that?

I was stunned. Some friends told me Principals offer jobs on the spot, but I never thought I would actually experience it. Wow. God is amazing!!

I signed my statement of acceptance letter this morning and will be attending the Teacher Induction Program next week. Pre-planning begins the week after.

What once seemed like forever away, is now.

What once seemed like a snail's pace, is suddenly a thrill ride like no other.

Now I get to sit here and realize God had this all worked out to begin with. And I wasn't patient enough to enjoy His glory. I wasn't quiet enough to listen to His voice.

But God doesn't care about that.

His grace is amazing. And all He ever wanted to do was bless me.

And He has.

Home...

What a wonderful word.

Home.

I love my home. My bed. My shower. My towels. I loved seeing my family and friends in Oklahoma. I loved being part of the Mission Trip...it was fantastic. But what I really love is coming home.

We got in around 9: 45 last night to two dogs who couldn't be happier to see us and to three cats who needed a minute to digest the commotion of six people in the house, but then followed us everywhere we went once they realized we were back. Oliver, our gray tabby, wouldn't let us go to bed either. He ended up with us all night, just being close and purring the entire time.

The drive was long, but good. No real issues, except two boys....Trey and Josh...who got to giggling about something in the back seat while Joe was trying to sleep. It's hard to keep four kids quiet in an SUV.

We had such a great trip to Texas and Oklahoma. Seeing family was so nice. Mom and I did some shopping. Joe and Dad played golf. We ate some great food. And the kids played the whole time. We got to spend time with Joe's mom and sister and Julia and our niece Keiryn were close to inseparable. We saw a Triple-A baseball game, two Major League baseball games and two great fireworks shows. A family friend let us use his pool. And I was able to keep up with schoolwork.

Last Sunday, we made our way to Tulsa for the Mission Trip to Tulsa International Baptist Church. What a blessing this church family is. Sweet, sweet people.

Every day of Kids Club was a different day of showing the community how God reigns. And our children...all 19 of them...dramatized the Bible stories, did puppets and helped lead the music. It was precious. The first day, 22 children from the church and community came. And every day, the numbers grew. 29, the second day. 32, the third. And 36, I think....on Thursday. God is so good. Marna and Mimi shared the ABC's of becoming a Christian on Thursday and Kim led the discussion on salvation bracelets and what each bead symbolized as the children made them.

The men began the restoration of a storage building and Tommy built the playground equipment. Several ladies helped with food for the team and snacks and recreation during Kids Club. And I got to help with music.

In the car on the way back to the house Thursday night, Joe and I told the kids that this was going to be a priority every summer...and they were thrilled. We made some great friends. Got to know some people better. And the children made some precious memories.

Now, we're home. And there's no rest for the weary. Unpacking. A little bit of laundry. A lot of housework. Schoolwork. A wedding today. And back to church tomorrow. Being away from my church family for two weeks is hard, too, so I'm looking forward to worshipping in the morning.

Oh, and I have two job interviews on Monday.....(Yikes!!)

Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow!

The joy of laughter.....or is it?

I'm sitting here in my brother's dining room.....at my computer, just taking a break. It's been a wonderful first day of the Mission Trip. We met this morning to go over the music, practice the drama and work through the puppet script. The children did the devotional at lunch and the ladies met and planned and talked. The men worked a great portion of the day outside.

Our first night of VBS was such a blessing. 22 precious children came. Asian, Caucasian, African American. 2 year olds and 15 year olds. And every age in between. We laughed. Jumped. Sang. Clapped. And waved our arms. We listened. Giggled. Prayed. Danced. And thanked God for His blessings.

Now, we're back at my brother's hanging out and getting ready to go to bed. But as I sit here, listening to the Phillies game and checking my school website, I'm marveling at the laughter coming from the couch. There is nothing more heart-warming to me than to listen to my four children laughing hysterically. Together. It is a precious sound.

The only issue is what they're laughing at.

My wonderful brother....The Randall....32 years old and newly married, has a movie that I've never seen....nor have I ever wanted to see. The kids have never seen it, either, but today, decided to watch it. They started it this afternoon....and they're finishing it now.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Good Ness.

I actually think I'm losing IQ points just listening to the little bit I've been so blessed to catch.

I think I'll head to bed before I become more stupider.............

Just checkin' in....

Well, our first week away from home has been great. Our weekend in Texas with Joe's dad and his wife was really nice....we enjoyed two baseball games and had a wonderful time at 6 Flags. We saw a side of our children that was so refreshing.....They hung out together....rode the rides together....took turns choosing which ride they would go on next...and really showed a lot of love for each other. Yes, they've done that before, but watching them Monday was such a blessing.

We've been in Oklahoma City since Tuesday and have had a wonderful time with my parents and Joe's mom. Shopping. Barbecue-ing. And hanging out. Tonight, we're going to the Redhawk's game, the AAA-affiliate for the Texas Rangers, and watch some fireworks afterward. I'm going to get to catch up with my best friend from High School and eat some wonderful Mexican food.

The weather here has been great....Hot and really Hot. Slight breeze, but even that's been hot. Welcome to Oklahoma!

On Sunday, we're heading to Tulsa to meet up with our Sunday School class and our Mission Trip to Tulsa International Baptist Church. I can't wait!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Independence Day! Stay safe and have fun. See you in 9 days.

Road Trip...

We are so outta here!!!

In about 90 minutes, we will be loading up the car and heading out of town. We've had this planned for so long and now it's finally here.

We're on our way to three different cities....Ok, four if you count Tuscaloosa where we're spending the night tonight.

Our first destination is Dallas, Texas. For two reasons. One, we have family there. My father-in-law and his wife live there, as does my brother, who is stationed nearby. I also have a cousin in McKinney, so we're really making this trip worth our while.........

But the second reason we're going to Dallas is because my Phillies are playing Joe's Rangers...at the Ballpark in Arlington. And you know how much I love baseball.....and my Phillies. We planned this in January when the baseball schedule came out....My parents are driving down from Oklahoma City, so that means close to 16 of us are going to tomorrow night's game. Way too cool!

Joe, the kids and I are going to Sunday's game as well...then to 6 Flags on Monday. Tuesday, we'll get up and drive to Oklahoma City to see my parents and Joe's mom.

On Sunday, we're then heading up to Tulsa, a swift 90 minutes away, to be a part of something really awesome.....a Family Mission Trip with our Sunday School class. In Tulsa, we get to make nursing home visits, do VBS and help at an international Baptist Church. The men will be building a playground for the church, as well...so this is beyond cool.

We'll be back on the 11th of July. Have a great holiday everyone.....and to all of the Patriotic Jamboree folks....I will be praying for you. It's going to be awesome! The only problem is...I don't get to sing this year.

See ya in two weeks!!!!

I'm trying.....I really am.

Discouragement. Self-Doubt. Insecurity. These are all things I struggle with.

And things I'm convicted about.

These last several months, the Lord has taken me on an amazing journey. One of joy and blessing. One of excitement and anticipation. It was a calling. A beckoning, even. I've answered. And have felt His hands guiding me. Leading me.

But it hasn't been without its frustrations, either. Waiting. Hoping.

Nothing.

Then maybe something.... But no, it wasn't anything.

An exercise in faith. In perseverance. In trust in my Father.

And the devil doesn't like it. And he's letting me know that.

I have applied for close to 25 positions in the tri-county area. Collaborative teacher positions. Resource teacher positions. Parapro positions. I have sent emails. Letters. Packets with my resume, cover letter and great references.

I watch the job boards---several times a day. I pray each time I click 'apply.' I want to rely fully on my Lord. That He is guiding me as I seek employment as a teacher.

Nothing.

Jobs appear on the board. I apply for them. A couple of days later. They disappear. Sometimes Principals respond to my inquiry. Most of the time....they don't. They say, 'Thank you for your interest.' They tell me, 'I am currently looking through the applications and will set up interviews.'

But the call does not come.

I know I am nothing special. I know I am not as qualified as other applicants. It's not that I feel I am God's gift to Special Education, because I don't.

But God has blessed me with a heart. A heart for those who need a little extra time. For those who need more encouragement than other kids. A heart for those who struggle with school. A heart for those who aren't like everyone else.

A heart for middle schoolers.

I know my opportunity will come. God hasn't taken me this far into this journey to drop me off and say....'See ya!' He doesn't do that. I am trying to be positive. I'm trying to be upbeat. I'm trying not to be discouraged....that maybe this isn't what I'm supposed to do.

But it's hard.

Father, remove the devil and his wicked ways from me. Do not let him discourage me. Keep me focused on Your face....Your will for my life. Grant me wisdom and discernment. Courage. And strength as I continue to follow You.

Tea Party...

Ever since we found out we were having a third son, we were on our knees asking the Lord for a little girl. No, not because the boys were that horrible... :-) I have just always wanted a daughter.

Just one.

I was the only daughter...and it was wonderful. My mom and I were and still are very close...and my dad, well.....let's just say he thinks I'm pretty special. So, when we found out we were pregnant with child #4, Joe and the boys prayed. They prayed for a little sister.

It has long been joked that God has a sense of humor. From the moment Julia was born, we saw His sense of humor in full and living color. Because while I always dreamed of that little pink bundle of joy that would smile and giggle, wear dresses and bows in her hair, what we got was a full-of-life sass-a-frass who will wrestle, wear pants with holes in the knees and would no more wear a bow in her hair than anything.

Our precious little angel has gotten more girly over the years, though. When she was a baby, we could not get her to smile. I have pictures of her just sitting there....totally unimpressed with the photographer and his (or my) attempts at getting her to show her pearly whites. Bows in her hair? Forget it. She would pull out and untie any attempt on my part to exemplify her feminine side. Now, though, she will do ponytails and braids and loves to have her picture taken.

But the biggest shock of all came yesterday, when she came to me and asked if we could have a tea party. Yes. A tea party. And she wanted to use the teacups that I have collected over the years from the times Joe was overseas. Ok. I said. Let's have a tea party.

So today....we had our tea party. Complete with cups made in Iraq, a strawberry cake made by Duncan Hines with vanilla icing and funfetti, ice cream made by Publix, hot tea from Lipton, our pinkies pointing up in the air, our elbows off the table and using fake British accents. Never before, have table manners been so apparent.

Sounds fun, doesn't it? It was. But it doesn't end there......

What made it even more special was the fact that her three older brothers....the very three brothers that prayed for this precious, handful of a little girl, wanted to come to the tea party, too.

And we had a great time.

I must say, Trey's fake British accent is frighteningly realistic.

God is so good.

Golf, a Tiger, and a prayer......

I'm a big sports fan. Baseball. College football. College basketball. And golf.

Yes, I said golf. I will admit, though, the biggest reason I watch golf is a man named Tiger Woods. He blew onto the scene 12 years ago and has quickly risen to become, arguably, the greatest golfer ever to play the game. It is fascinating to me what he can do with that little, white, dimpled ball.



When Tiger is playing.....I'm watching. And I watched this last weekend...and Monday...as Tiger won the U.S. Open...putting him 4 shy of tying the all-time Majors record of 18 set by the Golden Bear, Jack Nicklaus. It was a wonderful weekend of golf. Amazing golf shots. Comeback after comeback and the greatest player to ever play......won. Again.

But today the news came down that Tiger is needing surgery on his already surgically repaired left knee...and he's out for the remainder of the 2008 season. I must admit, I'm disappointed. Not getting to watch him play is a definite let-down, but the bigger let-down for me has far greater, eternal ramifications.

Because Tiger....as far as I know....is not a Christian. Here is a man....recognized world-wide more than any other figure...either sports or otherwise, wealthy beyond imagination, and gifted more than most of us put together.....doomed to eternal damnation, because he has never acknowledged Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

And that, my friends, saddens me more than not getting to see him play. I have decided, though, that in my quiet time every morning, I am going to pray for Tiger Woods. No, I will never meet him. I will never get to shake his hand or have an opportunity to witness to him. But I can pray. And pray, I will do. I am going to pray that someone walks into his life...whether a doctor, a physical therapist, even a member of his official fan club....and shares with him the saving love of Jesus.

Can you imagine the impact he could have on this world....if he knew the Lord?

Oh, Lord. Hear my prayer.

A new beginning.......

God is so good.

I can't put into words how excited I am about what's happening in our church. We've been blessed to have been members for over 10 years....and God has done some mighty works in these 10 years. He's shown us His glory. He's shown us His power. He's shown us He is bigger than our circumstances. He is truly amazing!

I love my church. No, it's not perfect. There have been some ups and some downs, but through it all God has reigned supreme. And tonight, yet again, God showed me just how much He loves me, because He sent His man to our church to lead us as Pastor and Shepherd.

Tonight, our church called Dr. Mel Blackaby as Pastor. Just typing it causes me pause. I almost can't believe it. God wants me in such a close relationship with Him that He called Mel Blackaby to show me what that looks like. God wants me to become a mighty prayer warrior....so He called Mel Blackaby to teach me how to pray. God wants me to be an Excellent Wife, so He called Mel and his precious wife Gina, to be our leaders. No, not just a preacher....but a leader for our church.

We need a leader. I need a leader in that pulpit every Sunday. And God had something up His sleeve that I could have never imagined in my wildest imagination.

Thank you, Father for sending us Your man for our fellowship. Thank you for impressing upon the hearts of the search committee...this man and his family. Thank you for opening his heart for this community. Thank you for showing us how big You really are.

I praise Your Name.

The first week, an interview, and a blessing....

Well, I have officially finished my first week of school....and frankly, it's really not that bad. The assignments are fairly straightforward, although I have had to email the instructor for confirmation on a couple of things. The reading, though, is still a bit boring.

I love to read. But this type of reading is rather dry....lots of laws, lots of technical terms that my teeny little brain is not focusing too well on. It's not necessarily hard.....just blah.

But I'll muddle through. :-)

I had my first interview with an elementary school this week and while it could have gone better.....I'm happy with how it went. I will never claim to know that much about teaching. So, when she asked me about teaching strategies and how I would ensure the students learned to read, it wasn't that easy to give a straightforward, concise answer. I don't have that kind of knowledge, yet. That's why I'm in school.

But what I could talk about was how much I love being with the students. How students thrive when they know their teacher believes in them. How they will work harder to reach their goal when they're given praise, encouragement and positive reinforcement. Students need consistency. Love. A hug. A touch. Even a 'high-five.'

I believe teaching is a ministry. A calling. And I believe that God has ordained my steps for such a time as this.....and I told the Principal as much.

I'm still applying for jobs...sending emails and mailing resumes and cover letters. Who knows what will come of it, but I believe sooner or later, I'll get to answer that call of my Lord to minister to students with disabilities.

Thank you for all of your encouragement. Your prayers and your emails. You are very special to me....even though, most of the time, I'm too busy to tell you.

I pray God's blessings on each and every one of you.

I love you.

An absolute thrill....

I love baseball.

Where else can you relax, enjoy friends and family, drink a Sprite, eat a hot dog, get some sun, watch a game, enjoy family some more, relax some more, and just have fun.

At a baseball game.

There is something for everyone. Food. Sun. Cold Drinks. Fun. Good Baseball. And family.

Tonight, Josh, Julia and I went to Turner Field to watch my Phillies play the Braves...and it was a blast. Great baseball game....and, the Phillies won. But the highlight for me happened before any player took the field....and before we found our seats.

We parked the car. Listened to the Belmont Stakes on the radio. Then headed to the Ted. We walked into our usual gate, just behind home plate and began to navigate the many flights of stairs to the 400 Level.

As we got to the Press Level, I looked to my left....and my heart literally jumped in my chest. I couldn't believe who was standing off to the side. He was talking to another family, so I grabbed my camera and began shooting. A huge smile flashed across my face....and Josh and Julia started asking me 'who is that?'

Oh, my dear children. A legend.

That's who.

I told them I would fill them in on more details later, but for now....I wanted a picture of him....with my kids.

He looked up at me and smiled. I asked if I could take a picture of him with my kids. He said, "Sure." And opened his arms to welcome them to him. I heard him ask their names.....Julia answered for both of them. He then began engaging them in conversation, using their names several times. I was impressed. And thrilled.

The kids......smiled.

I took a couple of shots....then thanked him profusely. As Josh and Julia were walking back up the stairs, he called out to Josh, who was wearing a Ryan Howard T-shirt. "Josh....is he going to hit a home run tonight?" Josh looked back and said...."Yep."

It was so great.



Once we got to our seats, I was able to tell Josh and Julia that the man they just stood next to was Harry Kalas...the legendary voice of the Phillies. He has been broadcasting Phillies games.....it seems, forever.

I then told them that he was in the Baseball Hall of Fame....as a broadcaster. And Josh thought that was the coolest. In the car on the way home, he said...."I can't believe I had my picture taken with a Hall of Famer."

How precious.

I've lost my stinkin' mind......

My classes are now accessible on the web.

Oh my stars. I know it's been 15 years since I've been in grad school, but Wow...is there a lot of reading. Discussion Boards. Live classrooms. Chats. I need to buy a headset with a microphone. Assignments. Quizzes. An end of term project....Oh, and the end of the term is in 7 weeks. Good Ness.

Pray, my friends. Just pray.

Rest and stewardship

For the first time in many days...I actually feel rested. Thank You, Lord. Maybe it's the fact that I spent 5 hours in my kitchen yesterday....

No, it wasn't so very filthy that it took me that long to clean it. I just took my time. And was very deliberate in my cleaning. And I cleaned things I don't normally clean. :-)

Cabinet facings. Inside the microwave. Just to name two. Oh, and I mopped.

Twice.

I'm going to pick a room a day and clean/straighten just like I did yesterday. Maybe in a couple of weeks, my home will be a reflection of my commitment to my Lord. My family. And the fact that He's placed me as a steward of the blessings He has poured out on me.

CRCT

These last several weeks have been filled with all kinds of emotions....

Joy

Anticipation

Disappointment

Frustration

Shock

Anger

Relief

And I'm not just talking about school ending and all that brings with it. I'm talking about taking the CRCT and waiting for the results.

This has been the first year the State of Georgia has implemented the new curriculum in Math and Social Studies and with the new curriculum came all of the emotions described above. Working in the school has allowed me up close access to the teachers....how they teach...what they experience...and how they handle different situations. It's been a wonderful opportunity.

The students took the State mandated CRCT in April...and the anxiety surrounding the test was so thick, it could be cut with a knife. Teachers weren't sure how the kids were going to do....and the kids weren't sure how they were going to do.

The results came back a couple of weeks ago and the numbers were surprising to say the least. The 6th and 7th grade Social Studies test scores had dropped so significantly, parents, teachers and administrators were up in arms....demanding that the State review the test and the standards and investigate the problem. To give some background information....in 2007, 83 percent of 6th graders passed the Social Studies portion of the test. In 2008, only 29 percent passed. Huh? In 2007, 86 percent of 7th graders passed the SS portion....in 2008, only 24 percent passed. This historic drop is what caused the State to stand up and take notice.

As a result, the scores of the Social Studies test have been completely invalidated and the curriculum and test will be re-evaluated this summer.

We received our kids scores this week and since I have both a 6th and a 7th grader, I was most interested in how they did.

I must have children more brilliant than I thought, because both of my middle schoolers met the standards set by the State. And Daniel was within a dozen points of Exceeding the Standard on the Social Studies test. Wow.

All four of our children exceeded the standards in several of the subjects....or came within a few points of exceeding and met the standards in everything else. All of their scores were well above average. Praise the Lord!

I am humbled by this....With as busy as our kids are...(I have been criticized that we are too busy)...our children still excel in school.

And it is all for the glory of the Lord.

His grace truly is amazing!

Symphonic Band

My precious second child. His name is Joseph. But we call him Trey. He's nice looking. Smart. Funny. Athletic. Talented.

Sounds like an ideal kid, huh?

He's close. But he does have his faults. One of which is skating.

No, I don't mean ice or roller-skating. Although, I don't think he's very good at that 'sport' either. The skating I'm talking about is when he does the bare minimum and expects the highest result.

That.....he's actually pretty good at.

For his entire life, Trey has heard comments like, "Trey, you're so smart." "Trey, you're so cute." "Trey, you're so gifted. I love hearing you play the piano." "Trey, you're so much fun to be around."

And, at times, he's been caught believing his own press. But a couple of weeks ago, the unexpected happened.

Every spring, at the middle school, the band director holds auditions for Symphonic Band. This is the audition-only premier band at the middle school. They are very good. Have won competitions and have played in a couple college football bowl games. It's a big deal to make Symphonic. If a student auditions and doesn't make Symphonic Band, he or she will be placed in Concert Band. A very good band as well....it's just not Symphonic.

Trey auditioned for Symphonic Band, along with everyone else. He expected to make it straight away. He practiced.....some. But not as much as I would have preferred. He had the prepared piece down, but his scales were a little shaky. But he was confident.....After all....he's first chair.

He went in to audition and the rest of the family cleared out of the bandroom. He's like his mama. No audience necessary. But I hung back. And what I heard was not the Trey I know. He did not play with confidence. His tone was not clear. He made some mistakes. After he was through, he came out of the room and made it clear he wasn't happy. He knew he bombed it.

Results didn't come out for over a week...and each day I waited for his text. Finally, it came.

He didn't make Symphonic Band.

I had the chance to talk with him about it....and because it had been several days since the audition, he was over his initial unhappiness. But the good thing is....he could re-audition the last week of school. And he did.

Yesterday.

Trey has learned a lot through this.

He's learned that if he wants something, he has to work for it.

He's learned that life is not always going to hand him everything on a silver platter.

He's learned that being prepared pays off.

He's learned that practicing actually makes him a better saxophone player. (Duh!)

Today, the results came back.

He made Symphonic Band. And according to the director....he 'creamed' the rest of the kids who were auditioning for the ONE spot available.

Way to go, my darling Trey. I am so proud of you.

Orientation, Honor Bands, Rehearsal and Recital...

The third weekend in May. Every year. Without fail. Is the absolute busiest weekend of the year.

And this weekend...the third weekend in May...followed the same path at it's predecessors.

And I wasn't even around to enjoy the ride.

I am not someone who likes adventure. Nor do I enjoy trying new things. I am a rut dweller. I like the comfort of my home. My car. My schedule. It's the same. It's predictable. It's secure.

Which is why I do not drive into the City very often. My thing is....if I can't find it where I live, then I don't need it.

So, my driving to UGA....by myself....two hours away....for an Orientation for the Special Ed program I'm starting, was definitely a big-time prayer opportunity. I had originally planned on leaving this morning for the orientation, but Joe....knowing me as well as he does....advised me to go ahead and go Friday night, so I could find the hotel....not be rushed, and drive around campus, find parking and find the building I was supposed to go to.

He's so smart.

Orientation was from 9:00 - 1:00 today and it went well. Nothing earth-shattering in terms of information...but the opportunity to shore up my knowledge on how to access my online classes was good. I left right at 1:00 and headed west back toward the city.

But while I was in my meeting....here is what went on with Joe and the kids, during this third weekend in May....the busiest weekend of the year.

9:00 a.m.--just as I'm beginning, Joe is dropping Josh and Trey off at the high school for their respective Honor Band rehearsals. Joshua was one of only 5 or 6 kids from his elementary school band to be selected for Honor Band. And he was the only percussionist. And he got to play timpani....something he's wanted to play for a long time. He's been taking drum lessons for over a year, but he's never had the chance to play timpani, until this weekend. I got to talk to him last night...after his first rehearsal. The joy in his voice is something I'll never forget. He was so excited. And he made this mama so proud.

Trey was selected to Honor Band because he is 1st chair saxophone for his 6th grade band at the middle school. And the Guest Conductor wrote a piece just for this weekend. It was very special and Trey had a great time.

Noon--Just as we're starting the second part of our meeting, Joe is dropping Julia off at her dance recital. Four costumes, with tights, shoes, hair accessories, earrings, makeup, hair brush, bobby pins and hair freeze. Joe and Julia walked in with all the stuff....Joe handed Julia off to a room mom and off she went.

And off Joe went. Back to the house to collect Daniel for his 1:00 soccer game. Now, I'm leaving the building and heading to the parking deck a couple of blocks away to get the truck and begin the drive west. Joe drops Daniel off at the game, then heads to the store for dog and cat food. He and I are talking...chatting....having a nice time. My drive seems to go by fairly quickly. He picks Daniel up at 1:45, so they can head to the high school for Josh's 2:00 Honor Band concert.
2:00. I'm driving along. At a pretty decent clip. Making great time. I'm listening to the Mets/Yankees game on XM. It's a beautiful day. Joe said to go ahead and drive through the city, since it's the weekend....and head straight to Fairburn for Julia's dance recital. I've already missed the 12:30 show, but would make the 3:30 show...no problem.

Suddenly, a wall of cars appears in front of me. All 7 lanes. Turned into a parking lot. Well, not exactly a parking lot. We weren't completely stopped. My speedometer said I was traveling at a nice, easy pace of 2 miles an hour. Yes. 2 mph. It was crazy. Apparently, the DOT thought that the middle of the day on Saturday was a great time to re-pave 75/85 and I and 10,000 of my closest friends all decided to navigate this mess at the same time.

Needless to say, I missed the first part of the recital.

2:40--Joe calls. I'm still sitting in the disaster known as 75/85. Josh's concert was fantastic. Now Joe is heading to the house so he can drop Josh off, give Daniel a chance to change clothes, then get him to church for his Crossroads rehearsal.

3:15--Joe calls again. I'm still sitting in the disaster known at 75/85. Daniel gets dropped off and Joe begins the drive back toward the high school for Trey's 4:00 Honor Band concert.

4:00--Trey's concert begins. I've finally moved through the disaster known at 75/85 and am heading toward 92. I arrive at 4:15, just in time to catch the tail end of their tap dance. It was good. The rest of their dances are fabulous, too. It's wonderful to see the fruits of all their labor.

4:50--Trey's concert is now over....It was wonderful, of course. Joe is now taking Trey to the church for the tail end of Crossroads rehearsal. He texts me at 5:16 that he's heading home....and he's zonked.

6:14--Julia and I are in the car following her final performance of the day. We begin heading south. At 6:35, we arrive at the restaurant for dinner. I'm famished. And exhausted. Joe is not as hungry, but probably more worn out than I. It's been a crazy day. And it's not over yet.

Daniel and Trey both had their Sunday School parties tonight after Crossroads rehearsal. Joe just got home with them. It's 10:01 pm.

It's the third weekend in May.

But honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way. God has blessed us with four children who are gifted musically. God has blessed us with four children who are bright and do not struggle in school. God has blessed us with four children who are full of life....not wall-flowers or soft on what they believe in.

This weekend....the third weekend in May....is a glorious opportunity to see our God at work. To see His handiwork. To acknowledge His greatness. To thank Him for His blessings.

Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow.

A day in the life....

Whew! I'm whooped. This has been a day and a half....to say the least. And I know I'm one of a billion people who have a lot going on, so I'm not looking for any sympathy. We've done it to ourselves....and the whole 'it's the end of the year and we MUST have a recital/party/concert' is our just dues.

The first thing on the docket today was Julia's dance competition. The biggest part of being in the Company class is going to competition in the Spring. The kids have been working on these dances since July...for 10 months....in preparation for today and it was a big deal. We received our schedule on Tuesday....Julia's class was dancing at 8:52 and 9:19 this morning. That's A.M. At the PAC. And we had to be there an hour early. Yes. An hour early. That's roughly 7:45 A.M. 30 minutes away from where we live.

I am not a night person. By 10 o'clock, I'm starting to fade away. I'm not really a morning person, either, but I do much better in the morning once I'm out of bed. On Saturday, I don't set an alarm unless I absolutely 'have' to. And today, I 'had' to. 5:15 A.M. Yes....5:15 does in fact come on a Saturday morning. Honestly, I thought 5:15 only came 6 days a week...and Saturday wasn't one of them. But today, it did. And I got up. Begrudgingly.

Joe got Julia out of bed at 6 and after she ate her french toast, I proceeded to put some light makeup on her beautiful face and gel her hair. There are very specific 'rules' we have to follow in competition. All the hair off the face. No bangs. Hair tied in a low ponytail with their crystal gemmed ponytail holder.

When Julia made company last summer, I asked her to look around at all the big girls at the dance studio. To a girl, they all have long hair with no bangs. Julia has always had bangs, so we decided we would try and grow them out for dance and see how she does. We've made it through that awkward stage, finally. She can almost tuck them behind her ears. But, they still get in the way. Knowing I had to get them completely off her face, I bought a can of hair glue. Yes. Hair glue. Actually, it's a freezing spray. Recommended by a church friend who has a daughter that dances.....and wow does this stuff work.

Julia's hair was absolutely perfect.

She had to go to the PAC with her costume on and makeup and hair completely ready. I think she looks fantastic. Her team performed their tap routine first...then their jazz. The tap was absolutely awesome. My jaw literally dropped at how great they were. For their teacher to get 17 8-9 year olds to work in sync like that is just unbelievable!

The jazz number was great, too...and in fact, won first place for their age group and category! Their tap number won second place. Not bad, huh. Two dances. First and second place. Way to go Petites!

From there we ran to the soccer fields to watch the end of Daniel's game...grab him and head home. I dropped off Daniel and Julia and picked up Trey to take him to his ball game....and boy, what a game it was. Trey's team, the Braves, was playing the Indians....who just happen to be coached by a very good friend of ours. Their son, Cory, has been friends with my boys forever....really, ever since we moved here. They've been in Sunday School, Kids Choir, and VBS together for years and they always have a great time together.

Trey had a great game.....on base three times and made some great defensive plays as the second baseman. He even earned the MVP Game Ball.

Josh's game was right after Trey's, but thanks to some thunder, lightning and a whole bunch of rain...the game was called after half an inning. So, my long day got a little shorter. We came home and collapsed. Julia has fallen asleep twice since we've been home and has now gone to bed. Joe is putting the boys to bed now...and then we're going to sit and watch an episode of Bones we missed.

And the hero throughout all of this is Joe. No, he didn't do the running around, although he did bring the kids to the field at 3:00 for Trey's game. While Julia and I were gone this morning, he straightened up our bedroom (which was a flaming disaster), had the boys sweep the garage and clean up the guest suite, revamped the kitchen a little bit...swapping the Tupperware and some pots and pans, did three loads of laundry, and mowed the grass.

Who knew Mother's Day came on Saturday, too?

Thank you, dear. I love you very much.

He's 'finally' married...

I haven't written much of my brothers...mostly because they live so far away and we don't talk as much as I'd like.

I am the oldest of three. I have two younger brothers. Rob is 34. He is married and has a son, Ethan, who is 6 weeks older than Julia. Robbie, as family calls him, is in the military and has been to Iraq. He is a military policeman and one of his responsibilities while overseas was training Iraqi troops. Now, he's a recruiter in Texas...and is not enjoying it as much as he would like.

And then there's The Randall. Yes, he is The Randall. He is 32 and has a very cool job. He works for a company that produces some of those ESPN specials called SportsCentury. They do other things, too, but Randy has been involved in several SportsCentury profiles. Andy Roddick, Pedro Martinez...just to name a couple. And because of his awesome work...he earned an Emmy last year. Yes, my brother is an Emmy winner. How cool is that?

Right now, he does the Tiger 360 episodes for the Golf Channel. Yes, I have some pretty neat brothers.

Which brings me to this last weekend.....My youngest brother, The Randall, finally got married. At the age of 32. Ever since high school, he has always said he wasn't getting married until he was 30. I, for one, never really took him seriously. Randy is cute. He has alot of personality. He has a good head on his shoulders. Everyone loves him. Why on earth would I believe that some sweet, young thing wouldn't come along...and make Randy change his tune.

But no. It didn't happen. It doesn't mean that Randy didn't have his share of girlfriends. He did. But none were anyone he could see himself settling down with.

Randy lives in Tulsa. Apparently...and I might get this wrong....he was on the east coast on business a couple of years ago, either NYC or Philly. At an ESPNZone, I believe, waiting for some people.

At the same time. In the same restaurant. Was Valerie. Who lived in Cleveland at the time. Waiting for some people, as well. They got to talking. And never made it to what they were there for. Two people who live in completely different parts of the country...on the East Coast on business...meet and totally hit it off.

The rest, they say, is history.

Thus began a long-distance relationship...which only made them closer. She finally moved to Tulsa so they could be together.

Randy proposed in a most romantic way. She had taken a trip and was flying home. Randy met her at the airport...only he wasn't alone. He had several friends in cahoots with him...and as she walked off the plane, she saw three signs. 'Will' 'You' 'Marry' ....Randy was holding the fourth, "Me." It was so sweet. He got down on one knee and presented the ring to her.

She said Yes.

Randy is at least 6'3". Valerie...is pretty darn close. They have a standing joke that when they get their picture taken, she has to either wear flats...or take her shoes off. What Randy gives to Valerie in the way of his sense of humor....she gives right back. He jokes. She jokes right back. He adores her. And they are perfect for one another.

And this last weekend, they got married. In Cleveland. It was absolutely fantastic. We had a ball hanging out with family we don't see very often. Almost everyone was able to come in for the wedding. All the aunts and uncles...and most of the cousins. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect weekend...except for maybe a couple more days of spending time with one another.

The wedding ceremony took place in a beautiful, Catholic church. Then the wedding party took a couple of hours afterward to go take pictures in various scenic parts of Cleveland. The rest of us went back to the hotel to hang out. The reception was a typical northern U.S. affair. Buffet dinner. DJ. Dancing. etc..... It was so much fun. They picked some of the best dance music. Even my father...all 65 years...was on the dancefloor, not only dancing a nice romantic, slow dance with my mother, but also the Macarena and the Chicken Dance.

Dad.....don't quit your day job!

Mom and Dad...you were awesome! You really know how to throw a rehearsal dinner party.

In a state of shock....

As you know, I'm presently getting myself ready to become certified as a teacher in the State of Georgia. I've enrolled in classes at UGA and will be starting the beginning of June. (Yikes!) I have applied for several jobs in multiple counties, but have not received any calls. I have been substitute teaching for 18 months...and have been trying to rub elbows with all the right people, so that when jobs become available, they think of me first.

I've taken, and passed, the State Certification exam for Special Education and decided that I would go ahead and take a couple of Middle Grades Content Exams so that I would look a little better on paper than I do now. Right now, on paper, I'm almost useless as a teacher. Nothing on my resume indicates I should be standing in front of kids teaching them Math, Language Arts, or Reading. It's all ministry or retail work. Nothing in the way of education.

So, last month, I took the Middle Grades Math and the Middle Grades Language Arts tests. I prepared. I studied. I did Math problems. I graphed. I solved equations. I read stories. I studied grammar. I perused vocabulary and spelling words. I brushed up on angles, the Pythagorean Theorem, and exponents. I felt like I did all I could to be ready for these tests.

When I sat down to begin, I decided to take the Math test first. I wanted to give myself ample time to work each problem...making sure I didn't make any dumb mistakes. About halfway through the test, I found myself relaxing....and actually feeling good about what I was doing. The vast majority of the problems made sense. I was able to figure out the answers. And I answered with confidence. The Essay question.........not so much, but I decided I wasn't going to stress over that.

Because I spent so much time on the Math test.... I left myself only about 90 or so minutes for the Language Arts test. And when I began to read the test, I almost couldn't focus. I realized I'd spent too much time on Math...and had nothing left for Language Arts. Oh well. No biggie. I don't have to be Highly Qualified (High Q'd) in content classes yet anyway. So, I walked out---almost laughing at the fact that I actually sat for two Middle Grades Tests. What was I thinking?

So, when people asked me how it went, my answer was pretty standard. "I doubt I did well. (Yes, I'm a realistic pessimist)...but that I would be surprised if I didn't pass the Math test....for no other reason than the fact that I spent so much time on it....being oh so careful with each operation. Language Arts. No way I passed. My brain was fried."

Now here we are today. April 28. The day the Scores are released. According to the website, scores are released after 5 pm. I am not that patient and decided I would log-on and see if they happened to post them early. 8 am. No. 8:15. Nope. 9:00. 10:00. 10:42. 11:48. 12:16. Still nothing. 12:45. I try again. And sure enough. There it is. The log-on window...asking me for my ID#. My hands nervously begin to type. Then it asks me to verify that I am me. I do. And in front of me are the two test scores I can verify. I click on Language Arts first.

And it says........

PASSED.

Huh? You must be joking. I hit the back button and started again. Sure enough, I passed the Language Arts test. Unbelievable. And all that's left is my Math score. I click the button. It flashes to the screen.

Did Not Pass.

My heart sank. I couldn't believe it. The test I spent so much time preparing for. The test I spent so much time taking. I didn't pass. I stared at the screen thinking that maybe I had accidentally infiltrated someone else's test scores. But, No. I hadn't. I just plain didn't pass. I missed the passing score by 13 points...and frankly, I can't imagine what I messed up on. After much thinking and much consternation, though, I've come to the conclusion that the essay question was what did me in.

So, now I'm High Q'd to teach Language Arts...but not Math. Whooda thunk it?

So, on June 14...I'll be taking that goofy test again. And hopefully this time....I'll pass.

Standing Ovation...

I am ashamed to admit that I rarely think about those who are persecuted for their faith. Those who must worship in secret. Those who are arrested, interrogated, beaten, taken from their families, imprisoned, and killed. Beaten and killed for no other reason than because they love the Lord. Because they have chosen to go against man and praise the Name of the Lord despite the earthly consequences. Because they have chosen to risk their lives in order to bring the lost to a saving knowledge of Christ.

But here I sit, in my home. On my couch. Watching a baseball game on TV. Typing on my laptop. Wearing clothes. And shoes. I'm clean. My hair is curled. I have makeup on. I am able to go to church without fear. Without having to look over my shoulder. I can raise my hands and worship my God for His many blessings. Without hesitation. I can go to work and pray over my lunch without wondering if anyone is going to beat me for doing so. I can read my Bible during my planning period without worry that someone will take it from me....or demand I put it away or be fired.

Tonight, our High School Choir presented a powerful musical honoring those who have been persecuted for their faith. Those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice because they chose God over man. They gave their lives because they loved the Lord. Wow. What a sacrifice. It is literally unfathomable to me that there are people who have done this, but yet there are many.

It was an incredible time tonight as we learned about Polycarp, Betsy Ten Boom, Graham Staines, and Georgy Slesary. Those who were killed because they loved and worshipped Jesus. And it got me thinking. How dare I ever feel put upon when God asks me to serve Him. How dare I. What am I being asked to sacrifice? My time. Yes. Money. Sure. But my life? No. My family's lives? No.

Yes, there are times when I just don't feel like it. When I'm tired. Tapped out. Spent. But, that's just me being selfish, really.

God, forgive me for my complacency. Forgive me standing pat. Forgive me for being so busy that I forget to Praise Your Name. Father, create in me a clean heart. Use me to glorify You. Remove me from the equation. It's all about You. You have placed me into the mission field of teaching. Give me opportunity to share You with those around me. May I glorify You, Father, every day I'm in the classroom.

Thank You, God, once again for Your grace in my life. I praise You for Who You are. You are the Almighty. The All-Powerful. The Resurrection and the Life. Thank You, Father, for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, so the rest of the world can have the opportunity to get to know You.

Thank You, Father for two parents who took me to church every Sunday while I was growing up. Thank You, Father, for grandparents who took my parents to church every Sunday they were growing up.

I just want to be a blessing, Father. I want others to look at me and see You.

God, be with those all over this world....who are under attack. Who are under the threat of beatings or even death if they share Jesus. Father, if it be Your will...keep them safe. Give them strength to stand up for what they believe. Give them Hope. Courage. And Peace. Give them a glimpse of Your glory, Father. Show them that their work is not in vain.

Thank You, Father for the reminder tonight that we have much to do in the remaining days until You return for Your children. Thank You for Frontline. What a blessing they were tonight.

Learning more and more every day.....

I've learned a lot these last few weeks.

I've learned that Middle School Math is not that bad.

I've learned that I have more patience than I realized.

I've learned that Grammar, punctuation, and spelling are very important to me.

I've learned that some children who suffer from disabilities want to be treated like they have disabilities....and not like every other average learner in the school. (Too bad for them.....they're going to be treated like they're 'normal' kids in my classroom)

I've learned that repeating myself is something I 'have' to do to get through to the children I've been charged to teach...and it doesn't bother me like I thought it would.

I've learned, again, that God provides an extra measure of grace right when I need it....and He always infuses me with extra energy to tackle the next task....right when I thought I was tapped out.

Wow. It's been an interesting 5 weeks since I started my long term job. A lot of teachers ask me how things are going....and my answer is always the same. "Some days are better than others, but I wouldn't trade my opportunity for anything." I love what I'm doing. It's funny, though. I'm tired....but that tired doesn't show itself until late at night. And every morning when I get up....I can't wait to get back to the school and see the kids.

Thank you, Lord for this. It's so great!

This last week the kids have testing...and it's been tough on both the students and the teachers. The state uses the results of the tests to determine which schools and which school systems are meeting the minimum standards set by the government. The results of these tests are basically the 'report card' for the teachers, the schools and the school system. We finished yesterday....and it was a relief. The hardest test, according to the kids, was Social Studies. Even my own personal 6th grader said it was hard, so it will be interesting to see how they do.

4 weeks of school left. Unbelievable!

Pictures from our day

Here ya go.....Some snapshots of our day at Augusta National. Joe got some great shots of the players and of the amazing scenery.

Enjoy!


Gorgeous azaleas in front of one of the cabins


Three legends of golf. Arnie, Jack and Gary.


Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus


Historic No. 12


Ernie Els


Phil Mickelson and his caddy


Stewart Cink and last year's champ....Zach Johnson.

It was a great day! Thanks, Mom and Dad.

Our Day at Augusta National

I so enjoy watching sports....both in person and on TV. Baseball, basketball, football.....Heck, I'll even watch a hockey game every now and then. Golf is one of my favorite sports to watch. It's something I know I'll never be able to do. Hit a baseball...no problem. Shoot some hoops....yep, I can do that. I can even throw and catch a football. But golf. Nope, I'm no good. I've tried it and I can't do it. Which is why I'm so fascinated with what these men (and women) can do with a golf club and a little white, dimpled ball.

My parents live in Oklahoma City. My father plays golf three times a week, and TiVo's golf tournaments so he can both play one of his favorite sports and watch the rounds of golf on TV without missing out on anything. I've even called him after the end of the tournament to talk about Tiger or Phil and he'll say...."Don't tell me. I haven't watched it yet!"

So, when my mom called me a couple of months ago to tell me that she and my dad had BOTH won the opportunity to purchase four tickets to the Wednesday practice round and Par 3 Contest at Augusta National, I was pretty excited. They had 8 tickets between them....so, Joe and I got to go.

And it was wonderful. Beautiful green grass. Immaculate fairways and greens. Amazing scenery. Gorgeous azalea and camelia bushes. I was awed by the beauty of the grounds. And was reminded that all of it came from the Lord. God created such awesome wonder. And we were able to enjoy it yesterday. The sun was shining. A slight breeze. Conditions were ideal for golf. And for hanging out with family and friends.

We got to see Phil, Fred, Nick, and Tripp. We even saw Jack, Arnie and Gary....that was a highlight. No Tiger, though. He didn't play in the Par 3, but it was a great day nonetheless. I'll post pictures once I get them off my camera.

Spring Break is now coming to an end. Just a couple more days of no alarm clock, then it's back to reality and state testing that begins next week.

It's been a great few days, too. We've cleaned up the house...made piles of things to donate...and had a nice time with my parents. Joe is now in Norfolk for the weekend and my parents are on their way back to OKC.

God is good.

I'm being called a 'Teacher'

These first few weeks of my full-time teaching job have been absolutely wonderful. The kids have been great. For the most part, they've really tried hard and they've adapted to my way of running the classroom quite well. I have had to do some re-teaching of things....like, not getting on the classroom computers without asking first. Going to the bathroom and getting a drink of water 'between' classes....and not 10 minutes after we've begun. (big problem). Raising their hands when they want to speak. Not saying 'shut-up' to each other...(one of my least favorite words in our slang language).

They now have homework several nights a week and quizzes are a regular part of our time together. I'm not sure how much of that was being done before I took over the class, but suffice it to say, they are behind in both Math and Language Arts. A real shame.

Trying to get them exposed to some things before State testing has been a bit of a challenge, but thankfully, I have a lot of support at the school, and if I need anything, I just ask.

Still no word on whether there is a permanent job for me. Oddly enough, there is a surplus of Special Education teachers in our County, so no hiring is taking place. The school has let me know they'd love to have me there on a permanent, full-time basis, but the 'numbers' may not allow it. I'm still praying that the Lord will open the door for me at this school. I love it there. The kids seem to like my being there and the teachers have been phenomenal.

I start classes this summer at UGA and have taken two more certification exams. Middle Grades Math and Middle Grades Language Arts. I get my results at the end of the month and once again, I'm not optimisic. The Math one wasn't as bad as I was expecting. I spent a lot of time on each problem, making sure I performed each operation correctly. I didn't want to make any dumb mistakes. The Language Arts test was ridiculous. I'm sure I didn't pass that one...if only because I gave everything I had to the Math test.

And now, it's Spring Break. And I need the break. Working every day...preparing lesson plans, exams and homework takes a lot out of me. Saturdays are spent on cleaning and laundry, leaving little room for rest. Standing over the kids and helping them with their work has my back in a frenzy, so I've been told to wear shoes with less of a heel. That, my friends, is not an easy task. I have worn high heels for years. Almost every job I've had required me to look professional or in my Sunday Best at all times. High heels are natural for me. Problem is, I'm now dealing with kids are still shorter than I, so my posture has changed. So, I am now having to re-think how I dress each day.

But, God is good. I love going to work. I love being with the kids. I love helping them understand things like equations, Pythagorean theorem, and coordinate planes. Big fun! And helping them remember how a compound sentence is constructed is a blast. After state testing, we're going to bring out the Literature books and start some vocabulary and spelling lessons. Some of my all-time fondest memories of school! Spelling test. :Sigh:

In the mortal words of Archie Bunker...........Those were the days!

Next time.....move.

I don't consider myself the smartest person in the world........but I'm certainly not the dumbest, either. There have been times I've made some very intelligent decisions. There have been times, of course, that I've made some not so intelligent decisions.

Today, I made a not so intelligent decision.

It's Saturday. I love my weekends, because I get to rest, play, work and worship....all in a span of 24-36 hours. Things get done around the house. The kids get to play, the alarm isn't set and on Sunday, it's church and rest. What a blessing.

Today all three boys had a game. Trey and Josh both had baseball games and Daniel had his first soccer game. Yes, we've added soccer to our list of 'things to do,' as if that list wasn't long enough as it is :-)

Josh is still not able to play baseball...it looks like it could be another two weeks before he's cleared completely to play baseball and do karate. And who knows how long after that to regain the strength he once had in his arm. So, today he sat on the bench and cheered his team on. To their first loss. The score was something in the neighborhood of 9-2. Not a lot fun, but Josh, despite his "I-hate-to-lose" mentality, took it in stride.

Trey's team played as well.....and lost, as well. His score was 12-4. Not good. Trey did get a hit and scored the first run....and he walked, so he contributed. It was during Trey's game that my boneheaded decision occurred.

I'm not real sure who was batting...us or them. But there was a pitch, a swing and a foul. I saw the ball come off the bat. And I saw the ball come toward me, but I thought for sure it was going to hit the fence. When I realized it was coming over the fence straight toward me, I stuck out my foot....to try and block the ball.

Problem is......I didn't pick my leg up high enough and the ball smacked me flush on the right shin. A literal SMACK!!! The wife of the coach was sitting two rows in front of me and was all up in arms about my getting hit. She's a Brit and one of the most pleasant women I've ever been around. And she was fussing over me. It was sweet, but I was alright. Yeah, my leg hurt, but it wasn't that bad. I felt more like a doofus than anything else.

As I was explaining my clearly idiotic decision to try and block the baseball with my foot to everyone around me, one of the moms sitting near me said, "Next time....move."

And we all chuckled. My leg still hurts a bit, but that's not what I'm concerned about. Tomorrow is Easter Sunday....or as I like to call it, Resurrection Sunday and I have a gorgeous pale green and brown suit that I'm planning on wearing to church. The skirt is short.....so my legs, below my knees, will show. And right through my panty hose, will be a nice bruise.

I guess it's a great thing there's no Praise team tomorrow. I'll be in a robe, so the only folks who will see the evidence that I'm a dork...(as if there was any doubt anyway)....are my Sunday School mates.

So there you have it. I got hit in the leg with a baseball.

As for Daniel and his first soccer game....he had a ball. He has wanted to play soccer for years, but never got around to it, because of all the other things we do. But he finally has his chance. He played goalie at the beginning of the game and blocked the one attempt at a score. Way to go, Dan.

Then when he got to play offense.......he scored two goals.

My little David Beckham.

Wonder who his Posh Spice will be?

Off the radar...

Yes, I'm still alive.

I apologize for having neglected this blog for the last three weeks, but I have a good reason....

I'm tired and I'm busy. :-)

Oh, and I've been asked to be a long-term substitute teacher at a middle school in one of the Special Education classrooms. I've wanted a long-term gig for a while now...and the Lord has answered that prayer. I get to hang out with some precious middle-schoolers as they finish out their school year. We're covering Math, Language Arts and Reading and getting ready for Standardized testing in three weeks.

I'm excited. I'm scared. I'm overwhelmed. I'm humbled. God is so good. He is allowing me to do what I've wanted to do for so long.....Hang out with the same kids. In the same school. On the same schedule. And I get to teach kids in a small group setting, to boot!

Unbelievable!

Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow!

Adventures in bird catching...

Today I had the opportunity to work at my favorite school. I knew it would be a good day...and it was. My kids know....from the moment they get on the bus in the morning....where I'm going to be that day in case they need me. Only one time have I gotten a phone call while I was in the classroom. Today, was the second.

Josh called at 3:00 this afternoon....telling me there was a bird in the house and he couldn't get it back outside. He said he had all the windows and doors opened, but he could not shoo the bird out. He wasn't panicked...he just didn't know what to do.

Then I got another call that the bird went into the laundry room...but he couldn't find it. So, I told him he could either stomp around and scare it out or he could just not worry about it. I told him I would be home shortly to pick him up, grab the other kids and head to the airport to pick up Joe. We would worry about it after Celebration Night. After all, we have cats. If there was a bird in the house...it wouldn't take long to get the attention of our pretty kitties.

I grabbed Dan and Trey from the bus and headed to the house. When I walked in the door, I found myself looking up at the ceiling...almost ducking down expecting to be dive-bombed by this bird. Harken back to the days of bat-catching and you'll know why. I scanned the house but did not see anything. Trey went in to get his basketball shirt and drop off his backpack and I headed into my room to check email. Nothing seemed out of sort. In my room, at least.

When I walked into the kitchen I could see that yes....a bird had, in fact, been in the house...as there were feathers strewn around the kitchen floor. I stopped right there and decided that looking for the source of the feathers was not in the cards for me at this moment. We needed to get back in the car to get Joe. He had already arrived and was waiting for us at 'our spot.'

We picked up Joe and headed to dinner then to church. We had a wonderful time at Celebration Night. The speaker/entertainer was fantastic. Juggling, unicycling, fire, bouncing balls. It was great. The kids were captivated and I laughed until tears were stinging my eyes.

Then, home. Julia and Josh were the first up the stairs. Daniel and Trey were playing basketball in the basement. Joe was grabbing his suitcases from the car and I was close by. That's when I heard it. Her voice. In a nice, even tone. "The bird is laying in the middle of the kitchen floor. And there's blood everywhere." Then Josh. Again, in a nice, even tone. "And it's still breathing!"

Wh-What??

Bird. Blood. Breathing. Three words I really didn't want to hear in the same three sentences.

But Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow! Because I didn't have to worry about it. I had a husband who had just come home from drill....and he was more than happy to come to my rescue.

Before I knew it, Daniel and Trey were upstairs checking out the 'victim.' Joe told me to stay on the staircase and not look at 'the mess.' Julia decided to let me know that the blood looked like ketchup.

Nice.

Within a few minutes, Mr. Bird was put in the back yard, the blood was cleaned up and the cats were found. None of our pretty kitties owned up to the deed, but I'm sure they had a lot of fun playing with the moving target.

I know cats are smart....but ours are really smart. The decided to maim the bird on my tile kitchen floor....instead of my white berber carpet.

They're so good to their mama!

Again....it's just another day in our crazy household.

Let's Go Upward!!!

Our little girl, Julia, told us last year she wanted to be a cheerleader. This really didn't surprise me because she does 'girl' very well. She's adorable. She's spirited. She loves to flip her hair and stick out her hips. She's a mess. I frequently refer to her as 'all that and several bags of chips.'

Those of you that know her....know I'm describing her to the letter.

Because we've always had so much going on, I hadn't thought of signing her up....until this year, when her asking finally got me to say 'yes.' A church in our city does have a cheerleading team for their Upward Basketball league, so off we went. She's had a ball and has been in her element. Today was the last game she can cheer....because next week she gets to participate in a 5-hour boot camp to get ready for her black belt testing.

Yep....

She's a ballet, tap and jazz dancer.

She's a cheerleader.

And soon, hopefully, she'll be a black belt in karate.

So, when she needs to defend herself, she'll do it with grace and spirit.

A doofus, shoe polish and R2-D2

Oh the joys of having small animals.

First, our fish births 18 babies....then they all die. We had them for several months, then one by one they began to die. It was actually pretty sad. We were enjoying hearing the pitter-patter of little fins around the house. And having grand-fish was a lot of fun.

We have three cats, who decided their scratch posts of choice were two beautiful Queen Ann chairs that I love. Yes, it's only furniture. Yes, they can be replaced, but when I gave the cats the choice of keeping their claws and moving outside or continuing to live in the lap of luxury and lose their beloved tips-of-their-fingers.....they chose the latter.

We added a puppy last year....much to my husband's joy.....and my dismay. We have enough critters in the house, I always say, but I lost that argument. His name is Max....and he is intelligence-challenged. Not much between the ears, as they say.

Which brings me to the present. We had the cats de-clawed this week....and we had to transport them to the vet using Max's cage. I obviously didn't think this through, because when it came time for bed, we had no place for Max to sleep. Two nights ago, Max stayed outside, but last night we decided we'd bring his favorite daytime sleeping pillow upstairs to Josh's room, so Max would have a comfortable place to lay. When I saw Josh this morning and asked him how Max did, he said he was fine. No issues. That he woke Josh up with two licks around the face, then went back to his pillow for more sleep.

Or so he thought.

This morning, as Josh went upstairs to get his trashcan to empty, he noticed the present Max left. Because I am mom of the year, (tongue in cheek, of course), I got the paper towels to clean up said present. As I moved something laying on the floor, I found the second present. A huge black stain. And next to it......the empty bottle of shoe polish. Oh boy. This was going to be fun.

I asked Josh to get the carpet cleaner and a rag and had him begin the process. Not knowing how much was actually in the bottle before the 'spill' was unnerving, but before long we realized the bottle must have been full. The clean up was tough....as the polish kept spreading. Poor Josh was trying so hard....I commend him for making such an effort. Finally, I was able to make it upstairs to help out. And boy, was I in for a shock. What started off as a stain the size of....maybe three silver dollars, grew into an area twelve inches by eight inches, at least.

So, I did the only thing I knew to do.....get water and get R2-D2, our beloved wet-dry vac.

We sprayed the cleaner. We dumped the water. We sucked it up. Then we sprayed some more. We dumped some more. We sucked some more. And wow, was there a lot of ink in that stain. And when I thought I'd gotten most of it, there was more to get.

After 45 minutes of spraying, dumping and sucking....this was the end result. No, it's not perfect, but it's probably as good as we can do......for now.

And because I don't like to wear gloves when I clean......now I need a manicure. ;-)

A doofus, shoe polish and R2-D2.

Just another day in our wild and crazy household.