Ummm, what?

So, here I sit. It's February 2, 2010 and it's been over a year since my last post. And in looking back at my past posts, losing track of time seems to be a trend.

It is what it is.

But let me bring you up to speed: I am an 8th grade Special Education teacher at a great middle school here in Georgia. I get to Co-teach Science and Math and I get to teach two small group math classes. I absolutely love what I do and consider myself blessed beyond measure. In May, I will be completing my teacher certification program and will be considered 'Clear and Renewable.' And just to confirm how crazy I really am, I am enrolling at another University to earn my Specialist in Education degree. The thought is overwhelming, but the program looks incredible. We'll see if the Lord opens that door.

The children are just as busy as I. Daniel is now in High School, a member of the marching band and plays a mean french horn. Trey is in 8th grade, plays the saxophone and the piano, and has discovered that having a girlfriend is a pretty cool thing.

Joshua is in 7th grade, plays percussion and a whole lot of video games. Julia is learning to play the oboe....and every 'role' in the book. Quite the drama queen, that girl!

One of the most exciting things about being the mom of my children is getting to watch my boys play every Sunday in our church orchestra. Being among adults has brought a sense of maturity and 'family' to my boys that I am forever grateful for. The Celebration Orchestra welcomed my boys and they have found a place of ministry, using their gifts of music to bring glory to God. It is wonderful!

I doubt I'll continue to post regularly. Life is just getting away from me and it's hard to sit down and focus on one thing at a time.

"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.