Wow. Time has flown by and it's March! Spring is right around the corner! Spring Break is a few weeks away and the sunshine is here in Central Ohio for the first time in a long while!
We've been super busy here. Jenna's basketball season just ended and they won every single game up until the last. She has really matured as an athlete and it's been fun watching her learn to defend herself and drive to the hoop. She's 10 now and grew 3 inches the past year. :-)
Grant is doing well in school. He still struggles a bit in the afternoon; however, he's reading very well now which is a huge answer to prayer! Thank God for Reading Recovery! :-)
On Friday, I bought my "new to me" car! It's an 07 Honda CRV and it's wonderful!
The real reason for this post is to share with you a site that I really enjoy reading.
One of the blogs that I follow (when I have time-ha!) is www.kellyskornerblog.com
This week she asked us all to write about a typical day in our lives. Here's mine:
5:30 alarm is set to go off, realistically I'm up out of bed around 6 am. Shower & get ready for school. Get kids up and dressed. Help them get packed up for school and off to the bus at 7:35. Then it's off to work I go! I usually arrive at school a little before 8. Kids arrive at 8:15 and we hit the road running with Language Arts (my personal favorite) block for 2 hours and then the kids have related arts (Library, Music, PE or Art) and I have a short break. Rarely do teachers use the restrooms...mostly we rush around trying to tie down loose ends and prepare for the rest of the day/week. Then it's Math time. I'm really trying to learn some great ways to utilize my Smart Board. I used to have an ELMO; however, now I'm using the Smart Board for small group works during my differentiated math block. Then it's lunch at noon and recess duty at 12:30 every other week. The afternoon is split up into 2 Social Studies classes. Teaching Social Studies is a blast! Right now my classroom is set up like colonial Williamsburg and the kids are experiencing dame school, college of William & Mary, shoe making, slavery, church and the governor's palace. We're having a blast! By 2:45 it's dismissal time and then usually I have a meeting or planning with my ESL, Title One reading or math teacher, team partner, or special education teacher. Then I usually need to put an hour into grading, planning, cleaning/organizing, etc. I try to get home to my kids by 5. Some days it's more like 6. This is when my second shift job starts! It's MOM time! Dinner, homework, piano, reading, a little TV, shower time for kids and bed at 8:30! Since Scott travels 3 days a week to Dayton (an hour each way) we rarely see much of each other. When he is home, we usually watch a little TV before bed and I try to be asleep by 11. I currently am tutoring kids after school one day a week and am the assistant treasurer for my kids PTA. Right now Jenna is in her school choir which is our only after school curricular. My life is quite busy, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. We have our health, good jobs, family, friends, and the love of God....We're blessed.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
love,love,love
Today in church we heard the reasons that we are called to love everyone. People that are like us, people that are unlike us, and even the people that hurt us. We all have experienced hurt. Some more than others; however, what we do with our ability to forgive and love again is a huge responsibility that we have to those around us. We are called by God to love everyone. Not just the people that are easy to love...everyone. I really struggle with this concept. How do you love those who have gotten under your skin and then made your life so difficult that you go crazy from the pain?
In order to have the love of God in our hearts, we all must love like God. Unconditionally. Passionately. Cheerfully. I felt so convicted today in church that all I could think of was writing a note to a certain somebody and communicate love and forgiveness. The thought of this scares me to death! I haven't yet and am not sure if I really will. But have you ever been somewhere and your whole body gives you the sensation that you need to speak up or move away or stand up for what you believe? My mother calls it a conscience. All I know is that I could feel God's prickling my heart during the sermon this morning. Love. Love like God.
Something to think about...
In order to have the love of God in our hearts, we all must love like God. Unconditionally. Passionately. Cheerfully. I felt so convicted today in church that all I could think of was writing a note to a certain somebody and communicate love and forgiveness. The thought of this scares me to death! I haven't yet and am not sure if I really will. But have you ever been somewhere and your whole body gives you the sensation that you need to speak up or move away or stand up for what you believe? My mother calls it a conscience. All I know is that I could feel God's prickling my heart during the sermon this morning. Love. Love like God.
Something to think about...
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Happy gentler New Year
Well, 2010 is here and I'm so excited for a new decade. My firstborn will turn 10 in just a few weeks and Scott and I will celebrate our 17 th anniversary this summer. Incredible how time flies! This year is going to be filled with many more smiles, exercise, more meaningful family time, lots of good books, pictures that actually make it to the scrapbook, and also less drama & much more gentleness. I think we as a nation, as churches, as teachers, parents, adult children, friends and humans need to be more gentler with each other and also ourselves. In our world filled with unrealistic expectations, high standards, impatient demands and waning morals, my wish for this new year is for people to come together and just be gracious, kind, loving and helpful to one another. There is so much pain and sadness-even in our own circles-that my prayer is that this year we all speak up for each other and help those in need.
Encourage people around us-neighbors, co-workers, family & friends.
Help a soul who is struggling.
Love those that are hard to love.
Reach out to a lost friend or family member.
Keep our word.
Pray to our higher power each day.
Practice random acts of kindness.
We all can do small things that together
make a BIG difference.
What do you think? I think I need to commit to these and live this year more aware than ever of how I treat others and what I do to reach out to others. Make this year less about ME and more about everyone else.
What do you think? I think I need to commit to these and live this year more aware than ever of how I treat others and what I do to reach out to others. Make this year less about ME and more about everyone else.
How will 2010 be different for you?
Monday, December 28, 2009
Lazy me...
I love reading other sharp ladies' blogs. At the bottom of my blog is a link to a wonderful button for "not me Monday". Well seeing as it's Monday...here is my two cents.
I am a list person-a visual learner. I need to write things down so I can see them. I feel better when I write down lists of things I need to do, people to call, bills to pay, chores to begin or finish for that matter. Today's list is extensive. Pretty much unrealistic (as always). No big surprise here that my entire list of "MUST DO's" are still sitting on the nightstand as I play with my kids, learn some new Wii Fit moves, talk to my sister on the phone for over an hour and continue to ignore my children while I organize my kitchen. I'm not lazy, whatsoever... I just am having a lazy day and enjoying doing what I want for once. Oh, I'll be stressed out this evening when I realize that I didn't get much on my list accomplished, but you know what? There's always tomorrow. I am entitled to be "lazy" one day, right?
I am a list person-a visual learner. I need to write things down so I can see them. I feel better when I write down lists of things I need to do, people to call, bills to pay, chores to begin or finish for that matter. Today's list is extensive. Pretty much unrealistic (as always). No big surprise here that my entire list of "MUST DO's" are still sitting on the nightstand as I play with my kids, learn some new Wii Fit moves, talk to my sister on the phone for over an hour and continue to ignore my children while I organize my kitchen. I'm not lazy, whatsoever... I just am having a lazy day and enjoying doing what I want for once. Oh, I'll be stressed out this evening when I realize that I didn't get much on my list accomplished, but you know what? There's always tomorrow. I am entitled to be "lazy" one day, right?
Hello Again, Hello!
Wow. It's been over two months since I last posted. Life has been blissfully chaotic and my priorities as a wife, mother, teacher, daughter, sister and friend have come before my blog. I have missed writing...it's quite cathartic for this soul.
Christmas was a wonderful time for our families. The kids are getting old enough to really understand the reason for the season-the birth of our Savior. Grant was all about singing "Happy Birthday Jesus" and still contained a TON of energy for his Legos and Star Wars. The Wii was a big hit under the tree and we were able to add some really fun games that will be excellent additions to family game night.
The kids and I have spent some time working out on the Wii Fit Plus and I must say that I really enjoy being a kid again! Spending these two weeks with my family (mostly my kids as Scott is still working) has been food for my soul. I do miss my students; however I'm thrilled to have this time with my kids and family.
We spent Christmas Eve with the Shearer family and Christmas day with the Gales. New Year's will be with all my sisters and their families and we're excited to have game night and catch up with all the new babies that were added this past year. Benjamin and Josephine are adorable additions to our family as well as sweet Leander who was born on Valentine's Day! Talk about baby love!
Growing up in a large family means that when we get together there is much laughter, chaos and practical jokes. Fun times. The kids have now outnumbered the adults so that makes it even more fun.
There is a beautiful layer of white snow on the ground this morning and I'm sure the kids will make their way outside to build a snow person. I intend to shovel the driveway as a surprise for hubby when he returns home this evening.
I so enjoy winter break. Although there is much to do to prepare for school next week, I'm soaking up the gentle days and extra sleep.
Well, besides working out more consistently, I will try to post often in 2010. Please leave comments as it is encouraging to read responses to my blog.
Christmas was a wonderful time for our families. The kids are getting old enough to really understand the reason for the season-the birth of our Savior. Grant was all about singing "Happy Birthday Jesus" and still contained a TON of energy for his Legos and Star Wars. The Wii was a big hit under the tree and we were able to add some really fun games that will be excellent additions to family game night.
The kids and I have spent some time working out on the Wii Fit Plus and I must say that I really enjoy being a kid again! Spending these two weeks with my family (mostly my kids as Scott is still working) has been food for my soul. I do miss my students; however I'm thrilled to have this time with my kids and family.
We spent Christmas Eve with the Shearer family and Christmas day with the Gales. New Year's will be with all my sisters and their families and we're excited to have game night and catch up with all the new babies that were added this past year. Benjamin and Josephine are adorable additions to our family as well as sweet Leander who was born on Valentine's Day! Talk about baby love!
Growing up in a large family means that when we get together there is much laughter, chaos and practical jokes. Fun times. The kids have now outnumbered the adults so that makes it even more fun.
There is a beautiful layer of white snow on the ground this morning and I'm sure the kids will make their way outside to build a snow person. I intend to shovel the driveway as a surprise for hubby when he returns home this evening.
I so enjoy winter break. Although there is much to do to prepare for school next week, I'm soaking up the gentle days and extra sleep.
Well, besides working out more consistently, I will try to post often in 2010. Please leave comments as it is encouraging to read responses to my blog.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Monday Madness
Why is it Mondays are so hard? Fortunately this is a short week-only 4 days of school. On Friday Scott and I are leaving to go to the Purdue/OSU game in Indy. We're going with our friends Justin & Kelly which will be fun. We're having our own little tail gate party! I'm looking forward to some R & R with hubby. I was born to live in a hotel and eat out! :-) My parents are coming down to watch the kids and I'm thrilled about that. Aren't grandparents awesome? I know growing up I loved spending time with my mother's parents in St. Louis. What memories we had.
Today was the day to drive to the other side of town and pick up Grant's prescription. As a class 1 narcotic, they do not fax or call them in; so I had to race to get there before they closed. When I dropped off the Rx at CVS, I was informed that because the dosage was increased from 5 mg to 10, the insurance needed pre-approval from the doctor. UGH. How would I have known this? Sometimes I worry what national healthcare will be like with the government in charge. It's already such a mess; I can't imagine it any easier or better. So I hope and pray that tomorrow everyone gets their paths straight and communicate so that I can get my darling his meds. Glad it's not life threatening medicine!
Well, I need to grade 50 social studies tests and spend some QT (quality time) with Scott. Sometimes it feels like we're 2 ships passing in the night.
Peace...
Today was the day to drive to the other side of town and pick up Grant's prescription. As a class 1 narcotic, they do not fax or call them in; so I had to race to get there before they closed. When I dropped off the Rx at CVS, I was informed that because the dosage was increased from 5 mg to 10, the insurance needed pre-approval from the doctor. UGH. How would I have known this? Sometimes I worry what national healthcare will be like with the government in charge. It's already such a mess; I can't imagine it any easier or better. So I hope and pray that tomorrow everyone gets their paths straight and communicate so that I can get my darling his meds. Glad it's not life threatening medicine!
Well, I need to grade 50 social studies tests and spend some QT (quality time) with Scott. Sometimes it feels like we're 2 ships passing in the night.
Peace...
Saturday, October 10, 2009
FALL..ing into Gratefulness
Well here it is the most beautiful time of the year (in my opinion) when the trees blaze with all the colors they are capable of and the wind cools things down so that we actually want to take longer walks outside and give our lungs fresh air. I don't know about you, but I know that I really find that this season makes me stop and start to be more grateful for all the blessings in my life. Maybe it's because my soul knows that Thanksgiving is right around the corner and my heart wants to start to worship the higher power that has given me much-too much.
Family: I have the nicest husband. He cleans better than I ever could. He works incredibly long days Monday-Thursday (12 hour days) leaving him with Fridays off most weeks. It is a total joy to walk in door on Fridays and have the house cleaned and groceries checked off the "honey do" list. I don't deserve a husband whose love language is acts of service. While it's not how I show love, I do so appreciate the way he does. At times it is thrown into my face in the heat of a "discussion"; however I am grateful and I tell him that. Our family and close friends have watched our 16 years of marriage with many obstacles and despite all the hurdles, we are hanging on strong and that is only because of one thing...GOD. I am grateful.
Kids: Our sweet girl is growing up so fast! She is amazing. Her love for others, her smile, her love of music and helpful spirit are a balm to my weary soul on most days. She is pure sugar.
Then we were blessed with our spicy boy. First grade has been a big change for us all. He has been handling a new rx for his ADHD. I don't care who you are or what your thoughts are on medicating children...all that theory and opinion is tossed out the window when it is your child who is struggling and when the rubber hits the road...a mom has to do what is best for her child. Period. End of story. This has been a long journey...and I'm grateful things are calming down for him at school. Still have concerns that we need prayer for; but things are so much better. I love this little guy. He is a joy to parent. He is a smart kid who has the largest personality of any 7 year old I know...and teaching 15 years, I have known many 7 year olds. Another challenge that I am grateful for.
Friends:
I have a confession. I have always wanted to be a musician and tour in those really cool buses...traveling all over... eating out....crazy, I know. Good to know that even though God didn't have that plan for me, I am able to see many great concerts and go home and sleep in my own bed! Choices.
Being a lover of music-of all kinds-I have been listening to Selah's new CD. They are an amazing trio from Nashville who sing like they have 1,000 lungs between them and picture perfect pitch. My parent's church hosted them in concert last weekend and my father was their driver from the bus to hotel to venue. All that to say that not only was I blessed by their incredible testimony & songs, I was able to meet Todd Smith who is the husband of Angie whose blog I found a year ago and have faithfully followed. Talk about inspiring! I have never met her and may never (if she ever comes Ohio I hope she'll come over for a cup of coffee and bring her girls for a play date); however, she is a kindred spirit who I pray for and I encourage everyone to follow her journey of losing a precious baby girl and praising God every day for all that He has done in their family's life and those who are watching...like me. Her blog has made me a better mother, wife and christian.
Not only should you check out You Deliver Me by Selah, but take 2 minutes to read her blog. Angie Smith...wish she lived next door. Check out her blog. Become a Sunday. It will inspire you.
www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com
Want the whole picture? Here is the beginning of the Smith family's story...read it and be grateful for a higher power bigger than anyone or anything.
http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/2008/01/beginning-of-story.html
Amazing, huh? Now wipe the tears from your face and please run out and buy this CD...it will change your life...forever. I can't stop singing cut number 3. I am grateful for their music and the world of blog friendships.
http://selahonline.com/
Job: I am lucky to be a teacher. It is a rewarding yet challenging job. Making a positive difference in the lives of children who will one day run our country is a privilege. I teach in a small school here in the community where my family lives. I am so blessed to have found a job in this district at this point in my career. Let's face it, it's hard to find a quality job with experience. I am blessed because of the job God has provided. I am grateful.
Well, I'm just plain grateful. Grateful for being chosen to walk this life and share my faith, questions, doubt and blessings. Life is a puzzle and I'm glad that the One above has the answer key already figured out.
Peace this beautiful fall day.
Family: I have the nicest husband. He cleans better than I ever could. He works incredibly long days Monday-Thursday (12 hour days) leaving him with Fridays off most weeks. It is a total joy to walk in door on Fridays and have the house cleaned and groceries checked off the "honey do" list. I don't deserve a husband whose love language is acts of service. While it's not how I show love, I do so appreciate the way he does. At times it is thrown into my face in the heat of a "discussion"; however I am grateful and I tell him that. Our family and close friends have watched our 16 years of marriage with many obstacles and despite all the hurdles, we are hanging on strong and that is only because of one thing...GOD. I am grateful.
Kids: Our sweet girl is growing up so fast! She is amazing. Her love for others, her smile, her love of music and helpful spirit are a balm to my weary soul on most days. She is pure sugar.
Then we were blessed with our spicy boy. First grade has been a big change for us all. He has been handling a new rx for his ADHD. I don't care who you are or what your thoughts are on medicating children...all that theory and opinion is tossed out the window when it is your child who is struggling and when the rubber hits the road...a mom has to do what is best for her child. Period. End of story. This has been a long journey...and I'm grateful things are calming down for him at school. Still have concerns that we need prayer for; but things are so much better. I love this little guy. He is a joy to parent. He is a smart kid who has the largest personality of any 7 year old I know...and teaching 15 years, I have known many 7 year olds. Another challenge that I am grateful for.
Friends:
I have a confession. I have always wanted to be a musician and tour in those really cool buses...traveling all over... eating out....crazy, I know. Good to know that even though God didn't have that plan for me, I am able to see many great concerts and go home and sleep in my own bed! Choices.
Being a lover of music-of all kinds-I have been listening to Selah's new CD. They are an amazing trio from Nashville who sing like they have 1,000 lungs between them and picture perfect pitch. My parent's church hosted them in concert last weekend and my father was their driver from the bus to hotel to venue. All that to say that not only was I blessed by their incredible testimony & songs, I was able to meet Todd Smith who is the husband of Angie whose blog I found a year ago and have faithfully followed. Talk about inspiring! I have never met her and may never (if she ever comes Ohio I hope she'll come over for a cup of coffee and bring her girls for a play date); however, she is a kindred spirit who I pray for and I encourage everyone to follow her journey of losing a precious baby girl and praising God every day for all that He has done in their family's life and those who are watching...like me. Her blog has made me a better mother, wife and christian.
Not only should you check out You Deliver Me by Selah, but take 2 minutes to read her blog. Angie Smith...wish she lived next door. Check out her blog. Become a Sunday. It will inspire you.
www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com
Want the whole picture? Here is the beginning of the Smith family's story...read it and be grateful for a higher power bigger than anyone or anything.
http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/2008/01/beginning-of-story.html
Amazing, huh? Now wipe the tears from your face and please run out and buy this CD...it will change your life...forever. I can't stop singing cut number 3. I am grateful for their music and the world of blog friendships.
http://selahonline.com/
Job: I am lucky to be a teacher. It is a rewarding yet challenging job. Making a positive difference in the lives of children who will one day run our country is a privilege. I teach in a small school here in the community where my family lives. I am so blessed to have found a job in this district at this point in my career. Let's face it, it's hard to find a quality job with experience. I am blessed because of the job God has provided. I am grateful.
Well, I'm just plain grateful. Grateful for being chosen to walk this life and share my faith, questions, doubt and blessings. Life is a puzzle and I'm glad that the One above has the answer key already figured out.
Peace this beautiful fall day.
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