Year Seven - Done!

Friday afternoon I checked out with my principal to close out my seventh year of teaching. What a crazy thought! Already seven years. Wow! The last two weeks were insanely busy and I am now on to slower days. I'm not reflecting on it too much since I had plenty of time to contemplate during the craziness that was the end of the year. So in regular Dana fashion, here are some retrospective thoughts about the past ten months:

1. Never get comfortable where you are. This year was the most uncomfortable, stretching position that I have ever been in. It has taught me how to work with difficult people, how to see things from another point of view, and how to advocate like I've never done before. None of those were easy things but as the year went on, it became so. It stretched me as an educator and person. I would LOVE to be back there as soon as I can.

2. God will never ask you to go somewhere He won't walk with you. While it was not the valley of the shadow of death, I had some pretty intense anxiety at the beginning of the year. He not only got me through it, he grew me to relax, trust him, and enjoy it.

3. What doesn't make sense at the time always turns out to have meaning in hindsight. This I knew but needed a good reminder. When I was told I was being moved to "the trailers" (Comp Ed), it felt so out of the blue and didn't make any sense. In hindsight, here is what I see:

- There were lessons I needed to learn personally and spiritually I couldn't learn anywhere but back there.

- I couldn't have stayed with the Johnson's after Bladen was born if I had been in the classroom.

- I couldn't have helped out with the grandparents like I was able to if I had been in the classroom.

4. Sometimes, we all just need someone to believe in us to help us succeed. At a meeting at the beginning on the year, the district level person over my department reminded us that 80% of our job is emotional. I've never seen that to play out as more true as I have this year. Giving love and confidence can make a kid soar as much as imparting information. At the same time, some kids need more than we can give. We just have to love them until we can get them the help they will need.

5. Most importantly, never be anxious about working with people who are different from you. My team was so different than any other I've ever had. There was a co-worker I was most concerned about working with. She ended up being my favorite person on my team. Even better, God used her the most to teach me about his love. Another co-worker and I grew pretty close. She told me on Wednesday that as soon as a spot opens up on her team again, she's getting me back. I told her she better follow up on it! You never know the impact someone is going to make on your life or you on theirs.

What a Weekend

I am exhausted. I am so looking forward to crawling into bed. However, it will wait a few more minutes. Honestly, if you look at what I did this weekend, you wouldn't think much of it. Yes, I got a lot accomplished but there was down time too. Most of the days were spent alone with my evenings filled with good friends. However, when you get alone with God, he does some pretty heavy duty stuff. He deals with the stuff you are pushing to the side. He knows that laundry needs to be aired and he sure does take care of it. However, he doesn't just leave it at that. Once those spots are cleared out, he puts things on your heart. And this weekend, he sure did that. While I may not understand some of it, he has given me some hard things to sift through and pray over. So that is what I'll be doing for a while.

Getting alone with God - it is the best kind of exhausting there is!

Glory Be

We all go through seasons of learning in our lives and I wanted to briefly share where I am right now. This theme is being played out in Sunday morning Bible Study, daily recall, and in my reading. I'm not going to spell out the specifics of how it applies to my life as of yet because some of it is still rolling around in my head. I'm sure you will see if unfold as time goes by - at least I hope you will. For now, this is a brief excerpt from John Eldredge's book Waking the Dead. I hope it encourages you:

Back in the beginning of our time on earth, a great glory was bestowed upon us. We all - men and women - were created in the image of God. Fearfully and wonderfully made, fashioned as living icons of the bravest, wisest, most stunning Person who ever lived. Those who have ever seen him fell to their knees without even thinking about it, as you find yourself breathless before the Grand Canyon or the Alps or the sea at dawn. That glory was shared with us; we were, in Chesterton's phrase, "statues of God walking about in a Garden," endowed with a strength and beauty all our own. All that we ever wished we could be, we were - and more. We were fully alive.

I daresay we've heard a bit about original sin, but not nearly enough about original glory, which comes before sin and is deeper to our nature. We were crowned with glory and honor. Why does a woman long to be beautiful? Why does a man hope to be found brave? Because we remember, if only faintly, that we were once more than we are now. The reason you doubt there could be a glory to your life is because that glory has been the object of a long and brutal war.

No Wonder....

Since I am in the midst of writer's block and it is time to update the blog, you get to read yet another school story. Don't worry, you only have a few more days to have the possibility of reading student stories. :)

I have two third grade girls that I work with for intense math intervention. Last Wednesday, we walked into my room and I noticed that one of them (L) was staring over my head instead of at what was before her on the table. Here is how the conversation went:

L: *deep sigh* I just feel so sorry for them.

Me: For who?

L: (pointing behind me to a nursery rhyme poster) Jack and Jill....

Me: Why?

L: All they wanted was some water. And they got really hurt!

Me: You do know that it is a poem, right?

L: Yes, but I still feel bad for them. Who would you rather be, Jack or Jill?

Me: I don't know, sweetie. What do you think?

L: Jill, definitely Jill. I mean, she just took a tumble. Jack busted his head open. I'd rather scrape my knee than break my skull.

Me: How long have you been thinking about this?

L: All week. That is why I haven't finished the multiplication chart yet.

Me: I see.......

TAKS Observations

When you have NOTHING to do but watch students take a test (knowing your career and teaching certificate are on the line), you can have some pretty random thoughts. I have two.

1. Can you imagine being OCD and having to take a standardized test? Imagine having to bubble in all of your answers on a scantron. Torture, I'm sure!

2. Pretzels are the WORST snack to give out during the TAKS test. First, the eat them like a squirrel. I had no idea it takes so long to eat one pretzel! There are many ways to prolong it:

- Bite off each curve individually. Then eat the remaining branches one at a time.

- Lick all of the salt off of them and then proceed to the technique above.

- Bite each pretzel into a letter. Examples: A, B, C, D, J, K, M, R, S, V, W,Y Also, they can be bitten into a teardrop.

- Eat all the way around the outside of the pretzel (like a layer) and then go the other way to finish it off.

- See how many nibbles it takes to finish one. Whoever takes the most wins.

All are disgusting and delay the inevitable. My personal opinion - pretzels should be banned from the testing environment. Why not, everything else is!?

Creepiest Dream Ever

Seriously - I win. This week I had the creepiest dream I have ever had. Some people I have told about it have laughed thinking it funny. Some have shared my my creepy feelings. Yet, others have surprisingly told me they have had a very similar dream. Usually I'm not into dream interpretation but this one has me curious. Here it is:

I'm a part time nanny for a dentist who lives on the first floor and has his practice on the second floor. One day as I'm getting ready to go into work (still a teacher as well as a nanny), my teeth start falling out. So I try to tell someone but every time I talk, the teeth left in my mouth crumble into little pieces. I can't call my assistant principal to tell her I'm not coming in because my teeth are alternately falling out and falling apart. On top of this, the dentist I nanny for won't see me. I don't know why but he won't. So I try to get an appointment and can't.

That is when I woke up. I immediately felt for my teeth. It so wasn't funny. Here it is two nights later and I still remember every vivid detail of the dream. I could feel it all! So creepy!

Too Good Not to Share

I have a friend that just cracks me up. I had to share what he wrote on his status update because it was oh so funny. In advance, you are welcome.

I wondered this morning as I sat here quietly eating my danish....What do they call a danish in Denmark? In my head I think they just refer to it as "bread". That would be a confusing conversation. "Danish?" "Yes I am, grew up here." "No, do you want a danish?" "No, I have a wife and she's from here too."

Home

A few months ago, a friend of mine wrote a blog about how she was homesick. She moved to Egypt to teach school on a two year commitment and, at the time, has been there for about six weeks. As I opened her post and read the title, I expected to find lines about friends in Houston, places she missed, and the comforts of America. I should have known better. She has a heart for Cuba and it is her ultimate goal to move there permanently. She wrote that as much as she was enjoying Cairo and does miss Houston, her heart is longing to be where it fits best. While she has never lived there, being there fits.

I find this very interesting. While I see all kinds of spiritual significance to this small post, I'm not going to go there today. I know - you're shocked. Dana's keeping it light. It doesn't happen too often so you can relax and enjoy. :)

I can totally relate to what my friend was saying. Last weekend as I was in Austin, I felt at home. Everything in me relaxed because I was where I love and long to be. I love the abundance of independently owned businesses, the laid back atmosphere, and the lifestyle. I love the accessibility of the hill country while being surrounded by the healthiest city in Texas (tenth in the nation). Right now, that is not the path that has been set before me but one day I hope to find myself in a house in Austin (or somewhere very like it). I love everything about it. So as I thankfully continue with my day in Houston, I long for home.

What about you? Is there a place that feels like another home to you?

Taking a Flying Leap

Last winter, I was trying to think of something big to do for the big 3-0. I wasn't too sure what to do but it was looking like a trip somewhere. Then one day I got an email from my friend Adrienne. She is Miss Adventure all the way (at least in my eyes she is). She had some photos of her at a trapeze school and I wondered if she would be up for skydiving. However, I felt really awkward asking someone to jump out of a flying airplane so I mentioned doing the trapeze. On me of little faith. Of course, Adrienne mentioned skydiving and the plan was made. So after months of anticipation, we met up this weekend to take the big jump.

It was amazing! I really think everyone should do it once. My instructor was wonderful - over 4,000 jumps under his belt. On the plane ride up, we got attached and he told me what to do and expect. When it was our turn, we walked up to the door and we were off. We did a back flip out of the plane and went into a 120 mph free fall. He tapped me and let me pull the chute. We slowed down and got to really enjoy the view. It was so beautiful! Watching others floating and spinning below me was so fun. He showed me how to steer and spin using the toggles and then let me control our path for a while. At one point I felt like I was floating through the middle of a movie. I heard him say, "I'm going to be the first guy to take you on a walk through a cloud." Next thing I know he is steering us in and around a cloud! It was very cool! He has the perfect line built in if he ever wants to sweep a girl off her feet!! We made a very gentle landing and exchanged a hug. I was over too quickly but it was so worth it!

Adrienne and me

Me before the jump

Me after the jump (obviously enjoyed it)

On the way back to Austin, I told Adrienne this jump felt very freeing. I know that there are a lot of things I have wanted to do but chosen not to because it didn't fit who other people think I am. I think this is one of those things. Most people I know would not pick me to skydive. I'm the dependable, responsible, two feet on the ground type of person. However, I just jumped out of an airplane! And it felt great! I am finally ready to stop limiting what I do base upon what I think others will expect and think. I loved the jump and am now ready for the next thing. The options are endless - a solo trip, zip lining, parasailing, hand gliding, and the list goes on. So keep your eyes open! You never know what I may come up with next.....

Poor Captain Von Trapp

I've been wanting to watch The Sound of Music lately. It reached the point that I set it out but just haven't set aside three hours to sit down and enjoy it. Tonight, I noticed it was on TV. It has been playing as I have taken care of some things around the apartment. Of course, there are certain scenes that you have to sit down to watch.

As I was working on dishes in the kitchen, the gazebo scene with Captain Von Trapp and Maria came on. I couldn't help but wonder, am I the only one who feels bad for Captain Von Trapp in this scene? I mean, he tells her he loves her and she doesn't say it back. Then, he goes to kiss her a second time and instead of letting him, she starts singing. Am I the only one who feels he gets a little jipped? I don't know any guy who would be prefer a serenade to a kiss. Don't get me wrong, it's a sweet scene but really? Poor guy.

Maybe its because she was a nun.......

The Woes of a Single Woman

God is good and I am very thankful for the life he has given to me. However, there are a few things that are slightly annoying being single. These aren't things that truly are important but they can really get irritating at times. I've obviously managed fine thus far. So without further ado, here is a list of the top seven things that are better with someone around (couldn't think of three more to make it an even ten):

1. Sometimes zippers on the back of dresses are very hard to close.

2. Jars can be very difficult to open.

3. Cars are beyond my comprehension.

4. Grilling out is a favorite but eludes me completely.

5. There is no one to blame when the apartment gets messy.

6. The act of doing taxes and dealing with insurance companies is an act of trust in God each time it happens.

7. Apparently men shoot straighter than women. Sometimes the clarity and "to the point-ness" of a man is appreciated.

A Year Later

What a year it has been. A year ago, I decided to visit Houston's First Baptist Church just to check it out. A co-worker recommended a class and it was a perfect fit. After six months of juggling two bodies of believers, I made the decision to worship at First. Making the decision to make this move has been one of the most difficult, beautiful blessings of my life.

In the time being there, I have learned so many lessons so far. I thought I would briefly share the things that I have learned and am continuing to learn. Here is what the Lord can do in a year:

- Learning the love of the Lord for me more deeply

- Learning the love of the Lord for others more deeply

- Learning freedom in both of those loves

- Seeing unity in the body of Christ across denominational lines

- A deep respect and appreciation for a strong foundation in Christ

- The difficulty of trust it takes to let someone follow where the Lord is leading them

- Learning to trust the Lord in all things

- The need for community

- The power of prayer

- The understanding of scripture afresh

Each of these lessons are significant on their own. Together, it changes your life and how you are interact/love others. I can't wait to see how the process of learning these things plays out over the days to come. Today, I am so thankful for what has past and anticipate with eagerness the days to come.

The Book Thief

One of my favorite things about summer vacation is the opportunity to read. For the past few summers, I have chosen a series of books and have read through the entire set. I also loving going to Barnes and Noble to peruse the summer reading tables for the high school students. There are usually a few classics that I haven't read or a new on that catches my eye. Two summers ago, I noticed a book called "The Book Thief" with a picture of a domino chain on the cover of it. I read the back, was intrigued, and brought it home. I tried to start it but could not get into it. Fast forward to a month ago and I decide to take it off of the book shelf and give it another go. It is the story of a young German girl and those around her living in Nazi Germany. It is about how books help her survive the war and find the beauty in the midst of despair.

It has been a very long time since I have read a book that has so incredibly taken my breath away. This is it. This is the book that I have - and will continue to - recommend to every person that I meet. On the cover is a line from a review from The New York Times that says, "Brilliant and hugely ambitious....It's the kind of book that can be life changing." At the time, I thought that was WAY overly stated but tonight, as I get ready to put it on the shelf, I already miss the characters. My mom tells me that the first time I watched the movie Annie, I cried because it was over. I've always thought that was silly but tonight, I wipe my tears because there is not a next page. It is devastatingly beautiful in a way that only a book can be. It is taking everything in me to not immediately begin reading it again. It is the most beautiful example of the artistry of words that I have ever read. Below is a four minute interview with the author, Markus Zusak. Watch it and then GO READ THIS BOOK!

Rodeo 2010

In learning growing intimacy with God, there are certain verses that I think we often use as token verses. One that comes to mind is the one that talks about how he knows the number of hairs on our head. Yes, it is neat to know that when I brush my hair, God know how many came out and are now on my bathroom floor. However, to be honest, I find the fact that he knows my unspoken inner places and unrealized needs better than I do is what blows me away. He is the Sovereign Lord of all I am and all I need. This weekend is yet another example of just how he shows up as I need him.

Last Wednesday, I was driving back to Grandpa's house fighting the age old battle of trying not to slip into a pity party. I just wanted to go home and I was driving back into an emotionally draining situation. I was trying in vain to psych myself up for the evening when my phone rang. A friend of mine, Lisa, called me to invite me out for a girls night. A student had given her a Rodeo package that included a suite and tickets to the rodeo for four people for Friday night. I think I may have startled her with the enthusiasm of my acceptance. It was the umph I needed to get me through the rest of the week.

Friday afternoon, we met up and trudged our way through Houston traffic. As we were checking in, we discovered that a mistake was made and there were no tickets for the evening's rodeo. After much ado, we were given (and accepted) the offer for an additional night at the hotel (room rate = $589 per night and we got it for FREE both nights) and tickets for the next day. Once everything was settled, we decided that as nice as the room was, we would split the rodeo into two days. So we were off to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for the evening. We went to see the quilt and art competitions, animals, vendors, tractors, walked the carnival, had our first experience on the Light Rail, and ended up at The Chocolate Bar (not really a bar but one of the best dessert places I've ever been to). Of course, there was no early to bed with four girls staying in a hotel suite together. Overall, such a fun night! Since there was no rush to check out in the morning, we indulged in sleeping in, breakfast in the hotel restaurant (again, part of the package), and visiting/reading/napping. We got dressed up again and made our way back to the grounds and the rodeo/concert. After the shows, we walked around a bit more and made our way to get steaks (in honor of the rodeo). Then, of course, back to the hotel to stay up too late talking. We got up this morning, had breakfast, and headed to church.

Now, I know that most people would not look at a girls weekend to the rodeo as a sign of a Sovereign God but I guess I'm not most people. I really wanted to go to the rodeo but because of how things turned out, I knew it would have to wait until 2011. God provided. I knew that I was at my breaking point emotionally and just needed an escape. God provided. We took Lisa's car so I was completely unable to feel guilty for not being elsewhere. Mom and Dad came in to stay with Grandpa so I did not have to worry about him. God's provision. Instead of a night of fun, God provided a whole weekend of fun and rest. He provided safety as we walked around. He made a financially impossible impulse stay-cation pretty much free. He very sweetly and powerfully met me each morning in my quiet time.

So yes, I can say with full assurance that God in Sovereign - even at the Rodeo.

Checking In

It has been a few weeks but I'm still alive. I've been staying withe Grandpa the past couple of weeks with a small break here and there so I've been removed from the world of blogs and facebook. I feel like I've seen and heard more about my grandparents than I ever knew possible. I have sweet and heartbreaking stories about it all. I'm so glad to have been able to help out but I have to be honest - I am completely overwhelmed. I know I shouldn't complain but I really could use all of the prayers I can get. I'm going back tomorrow for a few more days and I'm more overwhelmed than I can say. Physically, mentally, emotionally - I don't think I have much more to give.

One of the blessings is that I have had to lean on the Lord more in the past two and a half weeks than I have in years. He has been so gracious to provide strength in our hour of need. He has carried burdens when they got heavy and He has provided for every need we have had. He has held us up when we felt like collapsing and I know He will do it again. I have seen Him answer prayers and be our Comforter. I love and serve a faithful God!

Prayers for Grandma

To say the last 36 hours have been an emotional roller coaster would be an understatement. I'm too emotionally drained right now to even put well thought out sentences on "paper". Please pray for my Grandma and our family as we minister to her and each other. Our needs are so wide reaching - even within my own immediate family. God knows what each one of us needs.

Cheap Healthy Good

Before running to the grocery store today, I jumped online to google recipes for one. Cooking for one can be a struggle so I thought I would look for someone with more wisdom than me. Apparently the only thing that singles can eat are English Muffin pizzas and take out. :) However, in my search, I found my favorite new blog - as if I needed a new obsession on the internet. I usually don't want to dig back through past posts but I can't get enough here.

So the blog is called Cheap Healthy Good. The writers share recipes, articles, vegan/vegetarian information, and random food/eating out information. One thing that I love about it is that the writers give the caloric and fat content as well as the pricing per serving. I got the ingredients for a recipe called Bodega Beans that costs $0.62 per serving and is really good for you. I found another one for $0.89 per serving. It is easy to navigate and you can look by labels. They have links to other good sites as well.

So, here is my very highly recommended new favorite blog: Cheap Healthy Good

Meeting Frank

At the end of last year, I had an ah-ha moment. For whatever reason, it hit me that my grandparents are 86 years old, I live 20 minutes down the road and I only saw them about once per 6 weeks. Not many grandparents make it this far and here I've been wasting time I could be having with them. So at our family Christmas exchange, I asked if I could start coming to have dinner with them once a week. It is mid-February and we are still having dinner every Wednesday.

My grandma has one of the most amazing lives I have ever heard about. She would share a little here and there so I feel like I know about her pretty well. As she has gotten older, she has grown to fear dementia since there is a history of it in her family. To keep her mind sharp, she reads a lot and shares everything about her reading and her life. I don't blame her at all but sometimes that means Grandpa does considerably more listening than visiting. I know there is still stuff to learn but of the two, I have known her story much better. Until recently....

One of my favorite things about Wednesday evenings is getting to visit with Grandpa. He just tells you exactly what he thinks whether you ask for it or not. Sometimes it can be funny, sometimes it makes you roll your eyes, and other times it can be downright shocking. However, in between opinions, he has been slowly getting to share parts of his story along the way. Nothing big and earth shattering but little details that make a person who they are. Things like when they started drinking coffee, or what life was like on a submarine, or helping a favorite aunt study for her master's degree, or how they got their nicknames. Somewhere between the unsolicited advice and listening to his wife retell a story, my grandpa sits waiting his turn - sometimes patiently and sometimes not. And when we get the chance, he tells me things about him that I did not know before. In those moments, it feels like for the first time, I am meeting Frank.

January 30, 2010

What a day! Never in a million years could I have imagined what my 30th birthday would look like. I am overwhelmed to the point of joyful, humbled, thankful tears! All day long, all I could think was, "Thank you, God!" As I drove along the highway, I couldn't shake how incredibly blessed I am.

Today wasn't just a big day for me. I got to have lunch with my incredibly amazing parents. Thirty years of their life turned over today. For 30 years, Mom and Dad have provided for me and supported me. They have taught me what it means to love in every way. They have laughed with me and cried with me. They have loved me through it all. They hope for me and with me. I have spent hours today flashing back to moments with them, both sweet and silly. Not many people today can remember 30 years with their parents together. That blessing is not lost on me. They have introduced me to the greatest Love of my life and for that I am (literally) eternally grateful. No greater gift.....

My amazing sister and her family humble me greatly. Even though it was difficult, they loaded both kids up to come eat pancakes with me. Only love.... My sister is wonderful! I do not remember life without her. She has fought with me and for me. She has been my confidant and has given me confidence. She is loving and lovable. And I couldn't imagine one step of my life without her. She has given me a brother. Gregg is such a joy. From messing with each other to sharing his wisdom when needed, he is a gift of God I could never have know to ask for. And the kids! Liz and Bladen have only been here a very short part of the past 30 years but have brought a new love and joy to life than I have ever known.

Friends both old and new have been a part of today. Laughing, catching up, and accepting me just as I am but pushing me to be better. Teaching me about the family that extends beyond blood. Each one having a different role and significance in this life.

Yet, even as overwhelming as all of these blessings are, they are just examples of the beautiful life God has given me. Yes, there have been bumps along the road but I am convinced that God has gone every step of the past 30 years with me - whether I knew it of not. That is the greatest blessing of all!

Between highways and side streets, pancakes and german chocolate cake, family and friends, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I couldn't ask for a better 30 years. Thank you, Father, for giving me such an abundant life!

Stolen

I have come to the conclusion that different people are more sensitive to the urgings of the Spirit at certain times more than others. There is no telling why we are more receptive in certain times or situations but there you go. For me, I have noticed that I am more open to the Spirit very first thing in the morning or when driving in my car. Yesterday was no exception.

As my alarm clock went off, my mind was immediately singing the chorus of one of my favorite songs. The song, Stolen by Dashboard Confessional, has a very simple, two line chorus:

You have stolen my heart,

You have stolen my heart.

While the song has nothing to do with God, I immediately knew that this was not just a song looping through my head. It was my soul singing a love song to God, even as I was coming from sleep to waking up. Before my hand could find the alarm clock, I knew. After nearly 30 years, I have finally allowed myself to completely lose myself to my Father. He has stolen my heart. I adore Him with all that is in me and my heart is His. He has swept me off my feet and it doesn't look like He will be putting my down anytime soon. My breath is taken away.

Yesterday was not a good day. It wasn't the worst day ever but it was difficult. However, throughout the day, my spirit would sing out:

You have stolen my heart,

You have stolen my heart.

as if to remind me that no matter the difficulties of the day, my heart is forever lost to Him. It was beautiful. But it didn't stop there.

After outreach last night, I decided to listen to this song on the way home. As I drove along I-10, I popped the cd in and as the chorus began to play for the first time, a still, small voice whispered love as I have never heard it before. It wasn't just my heart that has been stolen by Him.......

He feels the same way about me.

Why, I will never know, but it is true. He calls me the apple of His eye, His chosen one, beloved. He adores me. He has fought for me and has given me abundant life. He looks at me and His breath is taken away. He went so far as to die for me and eagerly waits until we are together. I never have been and I never will be so well loved.

It wasn't just a song stuck in my head. It wasn't just my spirit singing a love song to my God. It was more. It was a song He sang over me. We sang it to each other. We sang it all night. We sang it all day today. I have a feeling we will be singing it for a very long time...

You have stolen my heart,

You have stolen my heart.

Blah Blah Blah

I'm in a blogging slump lately. Sorry y'all! I'm either brain dead or have become the most uncreative person known to man. Have a great weekend and I'll see ya on the other side!

The Responsibility of Knowing

About a year and a half ago, my dear friends, the Sheasbys, went to Swaziland on a scouting trip in preparation for a long term mission commitment. When they returned, Esme shared with me about what they saw there in terms of children orphaned my AIDS. Her response that has stayed with me was, "After seeing and hearing all that I have seen and heard, what do I go back? There are only two options: Ignore and go on as if nothing has changed or take a stand. How is that even a choice?"

Over the weekend, Erin and I were talking about some different issues. As we talked, we noticed how people would rather say ignorant than know what is going on. As we discussed it, we came to the conclusion that once someone knows more, they have to choose to change or to purposefully continue as they always have been, ignoring realities. How is that even a choice?

Over the past 27 hours, I have seen and heard things that I was ignorant to before. Statistics, histories, and politics I have chosen to ignore came crashing in. Now I have to ask, "What do I do with this?" If I know and ignore, I allow lives to be taken and destroyed. If I choose to become aware and take an active role, things change. How is that even a choice?

I am choosing not to share what I learned during the rally and march today because here is the lessons that I have learned: If you know, you really don't have a choice. You have a responsibility to take action. Choosing to stay silent or to ignore is a form of enabling. Once you know, you are responsible. If you want to know, I would love to share. If not, I understand completely. Until then, pray. Pray hard!

What Are Your Doing MLK Day?

Please watch the two videos below (one and two minutes) and then read below.

Bound 4 Life


Bound for Life - Houston


I learned about this event about three weeks ago and have decided to participate. After seeing the miracle of infants more closely over the past few years, my heart is beyond broken over the loss of life in this country. One thing that the videos do not share is that the third floor of this clinic is dedicated solely to late term abortions. Next Sunday night, we will be joining a group in south Houston to pray and fast in intercession for stopping the abortion clinic in our city. Then on Monday, we will silently march in prayer to/around the clinic, just as the Israelites around Jericho. I am asking that you join me in prayer in preparation for this weekend and for the event itself. Please pray for success and favor with the Lord. Pray that this event is full of safety and not misconstrued to anything other than a plea for life. If you feel like this is something you would like to participate in, please let me know. You are welcome to stay with me if that is an issue. Also, feel free to join us in prayer and fasting on that day on your own. Joining together in spirit is just as effective as in person. Thank you for your prayers!

DUH!

So today in my 2nd grade dyslexia group, we were coding and reading words using our structures and knowledge of word make up. One of the easier words we coded and read was "twin". Here is the conversation that was triggered by these four letters:

Boy: I know someone in here who has a twin.

Me: Who? You don't and Girl doesn't either.

Boy: You!

Me: I do not have a twin!

Boy: Yes you do! You showed us pictures of her with her babies!

Me: That is not my twin but she is my sister.

Girl: Yeah, Boy! She is just a sister!

Boy: I can prove it! How old is your sister?

Me: 27

Boy: How old are you?

Me: What do you think?

Boy: 30

Me: In a few weeks, you will be right.

Boy: Ha! See! Told ya!

Girl: Told us what? That you are wrong!? If they were twins they would be the same age! DUH!

Boy: You bring her up here, Ms. LaMore, and I'll prove it!

Me: Ok.......

Then, this afternoon, I was looking at Erin's post about our Christmas with them and one of her friends made a comment about her husband mistaking us. It is the day of Erin and Dana! :) I mean, we look like sisters but twins!? Maybe I'm too close to the situation.

*The last picture of the two of us I think I'm allowed to post. The latest is from the hospital when Bladen was born. :)

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year to everyone! I rang 2010 in at the Plaza Club on the 49th story of the Shell building in downtown Houston. We were dressed up for dinner, dancing, and games. We toasted in the New Year with sparkling apple cider. Overall, the most fun New Years Eve to date!

Our View of the City

The girls I went with

A few of us just before midnight

As fun as New Years Eve was, I'm looking ahead to 2010. I've been thinking upon the days to come a lot over the past three days. I have no idea what the days to come will hold. I look forward to each and every one. It feels like change is on the horizon and I'm curious to see what it is. This morning in worship, something was said that really hit close to what I've been thinking. I thought I would share them as we begin the new year: We can (and should) pray for clarity and direction as we begin again into the unknown. Yet, maybe what we should pray for more is the courage to trust God in the things He has veiled for us. As we go forward, we ought to pray for faith in what God will entrust to us and that He is with us each step of the way.

I pray that 2010 is a year of blessing for you and that you have the courage and faith to walk the path God puts before you!

They Do Say the Darnedest Things!

I've been hearing some pretty funny things from kids over the past week. Just thought I would share a few:

Yesterday we went to see our Bhutanese family. They have been here about 5 months now and this is their first winter/Christmas in America. We took them some blankets and clothes. As we left, we said, "Merry Christmas!" and the 13 year old said it back. When we asked her if she knows what Christmas is, she told us it is a festival. We told her she was right, it is a celebration. My friend asked if she knows what we are celebrating and her response was, "The National Day of Jesus!" Ahhhh - language barriers......

_________

We were discussing something in my Kinder group the other day and a boy made a very bright comment. When I asked him how he got to be so smart, he responded with, "My last name makes me smart! My dad said all of us are smart!"

_________

Again with my Kinder group, I asked a boy a question and the following conversation took place:

S: I forgot.

Me: That's alright. Even smart people forget things sometimes.

S: I know. I'm not sad. I know why I forget things.

Me: Really? Why is that?

S: Because I'm small and my thoughts are so big they fall out of my brain! My brain isn't big enough to hold it all.

Me: That's OK because when you sleep, it rests your brain so you can remember more.

S: Oh. So that is why old people are so smart. They sleep a LOT!

Movie ABCs

In honor of Christmas break and not having a car to run errands in (she's getting some love this morning), I am going to still this idea from a random blog I saw. It is a list of my favorite movies listed by title from A to Z. Now, I won't get to list all of my favorite movies because of the restrictions but these are some definite favorites! Make your own list or tell me what you think of mine. But beware - listing your own is harder than you think! Yeah for . It reminded me of many movies I would like to see but haven't! Here you go:

A - Annie (1982)

B - Becoming Jane (2007)

C - Christmas Story (1983)

D - Dead Poet's Society (1898)

E - Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

F - Finding Neverland (2004)

G - Good Will Hunting (1997) - Only on TV though

H - Holiday Inn (1942)

I - It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

J - Just Friends (2005)

K - The King and I (1952)

L - Lars and the Real Girl (2007)

M - Monty Python and the Quest for the Holy Grail (1973)

N - Newsies (1992)

O - Oklahoma (1955)

P - Pride and Prejudice (1995)

Q - *Sorry, Couldn't find one*

R - Roman Holiday (1953)

S - Singin in the Rain (1952)

T - To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

U - *Sorry, Couldn't find one*

V - *Sorry, Couldn't find one*

W - Wizard of Oz (1939)

X - *Sorry, Couldn't find one*

Y - Young Frankenstein (1974)

Z - *Sorry, Couldn't find one*

Merry Christmas, Oikos Style!

On Saturday night, my class had its annual Christmas party. To explain the title of this post, Oikos is the name of my class. There are about 9 classes in the singles program so we name them to keep everyone straight. :) Oikos is a Greek word that means house or family. About half of us were able to come. I figured that since most of you have never met my friends, I would take this time to introduce you to a few of them. Lots of pictures!

Merry Christmas from Oikos!

If you see tacky sweaters, you will have guessed the theme. I didn't have one so my boss let me borrow his jacket. I got into the top two but didn't win. I was sure I would! For the top two, we had to model. Now you can see why I am a teacher!

Me and Sarah, the winner. She turned a Snuggie into a Christmas Tree.

This is the back of my jacket.

After awards were given we sang Christmas songs for a bit and then had a Dirty Santa (Yankee Swap) gift exchange.

You know you are in a single's class when a girl opens a jar of honey with a note attached that says, "If you are single, I'll be your Christmas honey!"

At first I got candles....

but ended up with a pink pony - she likes to give kisses. :)

Now for a few of my friends:

Sharon and Lisa

Sarah, Rachel, Christa, and Jennifer

me and Stan (just a friend)

Amy and Jason (yes, they do match!)

One Year Later....

All day long I have been scratching my head and wondering about the date. December 11th - why is it significant. Just a few minutes ago, it hit me. A year ago tonight, Erin and I sat in the Berry Center at Converge. Beth taught a lesson on anticipating God. At the end of the evening, Beth prayed that God would be building hopeful anticipation within us for what He was going to do in the next year. She also asked that a year from that night, we would see what He had been preparing for us this entire time. God answers prayers!

It is a year later and though the areas I thought would be different are still the same, He has done a mighty work in this life! One of the main points of the evening was "God will bless you with what you want or He will bless you with more than what you did not know to want." That was what this year was about for me. He did not give me what I wanted (yet) but he gave in abundance of what I could never have imagined. At the time, I was anticipating not being single anymore but (thankfully), God had/has something bigger at play. I'm not 100% sure what yet but some major steps were taken this year. He has been faithful in His promise to direct my steps. He has pushed me out of my comfort zone on many occasions but the result has been blessing on top of blessing. As hard as they have been at times, He has been faithful to direct my steps.

He took me from being a hermit to planting me in a new faith family. I have been blessed beyond measure to be a part of Oikos (my bible class) and the body it is a part of. Just yesterday, I was doing some counting and I have been showered with about 60 new brothers and sisters to come along side in the past 12 months with about 15 of those being good friends. He has taught me how to love others in ways that I have never imagined. People and/or traits that I had little tolerance for now have a special place in my heart. He has taught me how to pray scripture like I never have before. He has taught me the full meaning of James 1:19, "....Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry...." He is changing my world view and the desires of my heart. He is being faithful in the refining fires of his convictions. In many ways, I am not the same person I was a year ago. I feel like God has brought me back to life over the course of the past 12 months. It reminds me of The Wizard of Oz. Life was various shades of gray and then *BAM* color was given!

I'm excited about what the next year holds. I have no idea what I will type on December 11, 2010 but I know that I can look forward to it starting today. I know God is preparing something fresh and new for the days to come!

You Might Need a Tissue - I Did...

While every job has its perks and challenges, I have been hitting challenges left and right recently. I love teaching for three reasons: challenging kids, seeing lights come on, and forming bonds with students. This year, I feel like I am getting NONE of that. It has reached the point that when thinking on to next year, I am already considering a change. The most challenging part is that I feel like I never see the lights come on. Or even worse, I'll think the lights are coming on and then they bomb a major test. It is heartbreaking to feel useless but ever more so to watch these kids lose confidence with each grade returned to them.

I do really like my 5th grade group. They are so sweet and really funny. It is a group of 5 girls and one lone boy. He is such a good sport about it! We tell him all of the time, "J, you are the man!" He thinks this is funny because he is really THE one and only man. We let him get away with more than he should but my group of girls love him (as do I). They took part in the annual Gingerbread House building today and were so excited about it. Late in the morning, I walked into the 5th grade math class to check on a few of them and they are taking their six weeks assessment. My stomach turned into knots and dropped at the same time. The last time one of these test were given, my kids scores ranged from a 20 to a 60. Watching them get those scores back is something I will never forget no matter how hard I try. Devastating. I noticed that my kid who earned a 20 was already finished and reading a book. Bad news! I went to the teacher and asked if I could see his test. My eyes bugged. He earned a 65! That was a 45 point jump! I thought I was about to die! I asked if I could take him and she said yes. We went outside and I showed him the grade. He shoulders drooped a little before I told him what a big deal it was for him to increase that much AND he got the hardest question on the test correct! He started grinning and actually straightened up. I asked if he wanted to look at his test and he said yes. As we went question by question, we noticed something. He answered three questions correctly but transferred to his answer document incorrectly. It started to dawn on him that he did not have a 65 but a higher score. He asked the value of each question and I told him 5 points. I watched as he counted that he had an extra 15 points for his grade. Then, tears started falling as I watched him count three times what his new grade would be. You see, he had never earned an 80 on a math test before. He couldn't believe it and had to check it three times. He needed me to to double and triple reassure him that he had in fact not only passed a math test for the first time in years but he had earned a B. He stopped again and figured out that this test was 60 points higher than his last one, checking with me again to make sure he was correct. When I told him he was, we hugged, he beamed, and I cried as I told him over and over that I have never been more proud of any student in my life. We sat and laughed for a few minutes before he suddenly stopped. This teacher is known as the hardest on the campus and not to be persuaded. He told me that he was concerned because his teacher only grades the answer document, not the test. I told him that we could talk to the teacher on two conditions: 1) He had to do the talking and 2) She may not change the grade. We talked about what he could say. We talked about that if she did not change his grade, he would know in his heart and head that he earned an 80 and nothing could take that away from him. I would not be any less proud of him. So we walked into the room, he talked to the teacher, and after a stern talking to, she gave him the 15 points! He not only officially earned his 80 but he was brave enough to make sure it happened. I gave him a hug and had to leave before I cried again.

Later that afternoon, I saw him leaving early for an appointment. He looked at me and smiled a smile that lit up his entire face. We had a conversation that went something like this:

Me: You're leaving early?
J: Yep!
Me: You've had a really good day! Dad came to build a gingerbread house with you, you earned an amazing grade on your math test, and you get to leave early.
J: Ms. LaMore, you know what?
Me: What?
J: I'm the man!
Me: Yes, J. For many reasons, you are the man!

My Week With the Johnsons

On Monday, Bladen Joel joined our family. Erin, Gregg, and Liz have welcomed him joyfully and are growing love in their home. I was incredibly blessed to be able to be with them this week to help everyone get their feet on the ground. After a couple of days, Erin asked me if staying with them was making me want to have children more or scaring me off. The question still makes me smile. I told her that it makes me look forward to that time to come. I'm not longing for it more or dreading it. I know it is in God's hands. This week was just a sweet taste of things to come. Even though getting up at all hours had its challenges, rocking a sweet baby and praying at 3:00 a.m. was some of the most precious time I have had in a long time. Bladen is a sweet boy already adding joy to our lives. His expressive faces and soft noises warm the heart and balance out the times he is less than happy. He has pretty much stolen this girl's heart! Watching Liz be curious at this person who never left was something else. She was gentle with him and patient for her turn with her parents. She is going to be a great sister! She still has a tug on my heart with that smile, her dancing, and all of her different laughs. She had Erin and I laughing until we couldn't catch our breath this afternoon. Erin was able to start the process of learning how to ensure both of her children are loved, cared for, and getting their share of her. She is an AMAZING mom! She managed to work in one-on-one time with both of the kids each day without neglecting either one. Even recovering from giving birth and adjusting to being a family of four instead of three, she was an incredible hostess. If every home had a mother like her, our world would be a much better place! Gregg is such a great partner for her. They balance each other very well. I love spending time with them because they still enjoy each other - joking, playing, praying, and working together through rest and sleep deprivation. It is obvious that they know how to laugh when they need to most. Gregg is a great dad - playing with the kids, taking care of tasks around the house, and making sure Erin is getting what she needs. The Johnson family is blessed to have him as their head.

Overall, it was a sweet week. It was hard to leave them but I have no doubt that I'll be back very soon (well - when needed or to get a sister/aunt fix). Much, much love to my Johnson family!

Daddio and Liz

Daddio was a big hit this Thanksgiving with Miss Liz! Between reading books, taking pictures, and his clean shoes, his granddaughter was quite smitten! I do love my dad and my niece!

Thanksgiving Lesson

The past two years, the two days before Thanksgiving break have been two of my favorite days to be a teacher. We would do rotations and in each group, we would have an activity to learn more about the lives of the Pilgrims and our Thanksgiving traditions/symbols. The kids LOVE it and we just have a great time. Since I am not in the classroom anymore, it was quite different today. I bounced around from grade to grade helping in their own celebrations. In addition to that, I spent part of the morning (yesterday and today) with one of my pull out kiddos. He is Jehovah's Witness and cannot participate in any holiday activities. Yesterday we "ran errands" around the school and played word games. It was really fun to be with this little guy. He talks a lot so I have to really be on him to be quiet in class. However, the past two days, he has been able to talk his heart out! Such a sweet boy!

*Sidenote: When I asked him to describe a clown yesterday, he responded with, "Cheeky!"

Today my team had a pot luck lunch. I was making fruit salsa with cinnamon sugar tortilla chips. Since it was fruit and I wanted it to be fresh, I decided that my time with the student today would be making the salsa. I bought a cheap chopper and let him go to town. All of that six year old boy energy chopped fruit faster than I have ever seen! While we chopped and mixed, we talked. About half way through, I asked him if he ever helps his mom in the kitchen. He told me that they just moved to a new hotel room and this one doesn't have a kitchen. As a matter of fact, he has never really been in a kitchen before.

This was a huge ah-ha moment for me. Instead of feeling sorry for him because he couldn't make a turkey, my heart broke for him. Here he was, a first grader, and his first experience making any kind of food was in a portable classroom with his reading intervention teacher. He loved every moment of it and was beyond enthusiastic! However, he has never licked a beater after his mom makes a cake. He has never helped ice cookies or helped stir the macaroni and cheese. He has never helped make a salad.

Instead of crying (like I wanted to), I told him what a good job he was doing. I said that he should be a chef. We talked about what a chef is and what kind of food he would make. I tasted the simple salsa and ooo-ed and awwwww-ed at what a fantastic job he did. He smiled this big crooked smile and asked if he could help me cook again sometime. I told him that in about three weeks I would need some more help (Christmas/winter parties). He just said, "aw-wight!" So in three weeks we will cook again and we will talk about being a chef. He will be the most amazing cook in the first grade and I'll do whatever I can in those few hours to plant seeds that can break the cycle his family is in.

Who knows - maybe the very next Emeril is sitting in my room instead of celebrating a holiday.

Lessons from the Corner

Each day on my way home, I get stopped at the intersection of I-10 and Hwy 6. Most days there is a man on the corner with a cardboard sign. There are a few regulars that I have come to recognize and have spoken to a few times. Nice men is need of a little help. There is even one guy that I look for because the next time I see him, I'm thinking of taking him to the new coffee shop on the corner. Most days, their signs talk about being in need of money, out of work, and/or being a Veteran. Most people get on their phones and avoid eye contact at all cost. My heart breaks for these men. They are treated like they have the plague.

Today, I sat at the light and looked over to see a new face. I've never seen him before but there he was - missing his front few teeth and leading the cutest dog ever. He had the most contagious smile I have seen all day long. He looked drivers in the eye, smiled at them, and waved enthusiastically. He made the corner of my mouth turn up a bit. I glanced at his sign and all it said was "Cheeseburger, please!" followed by a smiley face. It was too much. I burst out smiling and laughing. He saw me, smiled, waved, and gave me a thumbs up. I have never been so sad to not have cash on me. He made my day!

As I drove past, two thoughts entered my mind: 1) I hope he is there tomorrow and 2) what a brat I am! Here was a man with very little, obviously full of joy and seeking his daily bread. One smile, one meal, full of joy. There I was, sitting in my car on my way home to prepared dinner feeling a little down after spending a rough-ish day at my very secure job. There he was, with no income just hoping for the generosity of others, smiling like it was Christmas Day. It was obvious who has their perspective correct.

Today, I wish I was more like the man on the corner.

Praise!!

Thank you, thank you, and thank you for your prayers for my coworker! Today, an emergency C-Section was performed and this world welcomed little Dalton. He is 3 pounds exactly and is 20 inches long. There is concern about his lungs but he is in NICU for a little while. Mom is doing very well. She feels great and is beyond in love with her son. As soon as a picture is available, I'll share with you the results of your prayers.

"Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom!" - Psalm 145:3

Prayer Request Update

Thank you so much for praying for my friend! They did a stress test today and the decision was made to schedule a c-section for Thursday. The only area of development that the doctors are concerned about are the baby's lungs. They are giving her a series of shots to help in that area and then on Thursday, we will welcome her son into the world. She is OK but still in shock. As things continue, I'll update more. Thanks again for your petitions on her behalf!

Urgent Prayer Request

Last year, God blessed me with the opportunity to work with an amazing woman. She is the most positive, loving woman I've ever met. I don't think that I have ever heard a negative word come put of her mouth. She loves her students, family, and friends so much!

As we got to know each other, she told me that before moving to Houston, she and her husband lost a son in her eighth month of pregnancy. She had to deliver him stillborn and it was devastating for them. Time was healing them as much as it could and they leaned deeply on God. Then, last April, she announced to us that she was pregnant again. Aside from my niece and nephew, I've never been so excited or prayed harder for a baby in my life. She is due on December 18th.

I just got a call that she was admitted to the hospital this afternoon. The doctor is concerned that the baby does not have enough room so they are keeping her to observe the baby overnight. She just text me that everything is looking good so far. I'm just so scared for her to lose another baby at 8 months. She sounds alright but I know this is in the back of her mind.

Since God is not bound by time, I ask you to prayer for her and the baby as soon as you get this. I so appreciate you joining me in this!

Me? Wrong? Of Course......

About two months ago, I wrote a rather embarrassing post about my celebrity crush of Adam Richman. At the time I ended the post with this sentence, "However, the reality of a Houston school teacher meeting the host of a popular national television show is highly unlikely." Well, looks like I could have been wrong....

I was just looking through my email at a list of events coming to the House of Blues and guess who is going to be in Houston on December 2? Oh my word!! If I were not expecting to meet my very first nephew, tickets would in strongly considered.

Oh what a nerd am I!

Oh the Things They Will Say

I haven't blogged about work too much this year. It's been pretty different in both good and bad ways. I'm working with a completely new population within our school through our REACH (reading) and Title (math) intervention programs. We are working with the kids that 15 years ago would have been in special education or pretty close to it. Most days are fine but every once in a while, it can be pretty daunting. This morning we had a meeting that was very overwhelming. Those of us on that team were pretty shell shocked. But bless 'em, we had kids that just made us laugh and laugh and laugh. Because, truth be told, if you don't laugh, you'll cry - really hard. Here are the things that broke our tension with delirious laughter:

Me: Who is your teacher?

Kinder kid: Mrs. REACH

Me: Yes, you are in REACH but who is your teacher?

Kinder kid: Mrs. REACH!

(10 minutes later)

His Teacher: Do you know my name?

Kinder kid: No

His Teacher: Ms. Mitchell

Kinder kid: Oh

His Teacher: OK, so what is my name?

Kinder kid: Mrs. REACH

Overheard from the boys' restroom:

- I left my pee in the water!

Teacher to a girl in the restroom (notice a pattern here):

Teacher: Why aren't you using the restroom?

2nd grader: The toilet won't flush.

Teacher: Did you push the lever down?

2nd grader: Yes

Teacher: Are you sure?

2nd grader: Yes

Teacher pushes the lever and the toilet flushes

2nd grader: Oh. I didn't try that.

Teacher: What are some things that you could be doing at 7:00 a.m.?

Student: Getting home.

Three minutes after giving a reading passage to students:

Student: I'm finished

Teacher: Are you sure? You read the passage and answered all of the questions in three minutes?

Student: Oh yeah, I forgot to read it!

What a Week!

Well, unfortunately I have had major blogging block. Thankfully I have been almost too busy to feel too bad but for you that means the simple, boring week in review until I have something else to share. Here you go:

Monday - God was incredibly gracious and gave me an unexpected night at home after placing an order at a bakery. He sure know what I needed!

Tuesday - Our school had its 40th Birthday Celebration. It was amazing! All of the former principals came back including the man the school is named for. It was such a sweet time to honor him as well as everyone who has served our school and helped make it what we love today. There were several tears of gratitude shed. It made for a long night but it was so sweet!

Wednesday - I helped host a bridal/baby shower for a couple of girls I work with. So fun but so crazy! Note to self - when doing a school wide shower, have more than two hostesses! Some of our former teammates came so we had some time to catch up. I left straight from work to head to church. Again, another long day but a good one!

Thursday - After work, a couple of girls and I went to see Mary Poppins. LOVED IT! It you get a chance to go, do it! It is a great story and visually stunning! I could go on and on but this is just a recap... It was nice to see my friends outside of school and just catch up. Working across campus can really make you miss your friends!

Friday - Dinner with the Johnsons and then watching Little Girl while her parents went on a date. I sure do love her! Lesson of the night - get faster at getting her dressed after bath time! I'm not anywhere near as practiced as her folks. Spent the night there.

Saturday - Come home after breakfast. Later, met up at church for First Fest with the Bhutanese. What an amazing fall festival with some of my favorite new people! Then, home again and crashed big time for a much needed night of rest.

Sunday - God dominoed everything on me today - in the best of ways. From an amazing time of prayer, worship, and study to meeting up with friends to discuss some of the harder aspects of scripture, He was all over today in revelation and conviction. My cup overflows!

Now off to bed so I can start this week well rested. Hope you all have a good one!

Point Made!

I heard the following sermon illustration in an amazing message on Genesis 4-5. Had to share it:

A young girl had a pet boa constrictor. She loved it and would let it get out of the cage. It was like a member of the family. She let it slither around - loved it, cared for it, fed it. Eventually she began to let it sleep in her bed with her like a friend. It would stretch out along her back and cuddle with her. She thought it was very sweet. Then, after a while, she noticed that the snake had quit eating. No more rats or mice. So she took it to the vet. He asked if the snake had experienced any trauma or sudden changes to its life or diet. She said no but left out the part about it sleeping in the bed with her because she didn't want to sound weird. He said if it continued to be a problem, to bring it back. So she took it home and nothing changed. She grew more concerned and began to freak out. She went back to the vet and he asked her if she was sure nothing significant had changed. She finally admitted that the snake was sleeping with her, and shared how great it was - it stretched out and snuggled up next to her. The vet immediately reacted and told her to stop. He corrected her that the snake had not been cuddling with her. In fact, the boa constrictor was measuring her. The snake was starving itself so it could eat her. He told her that it is not a pet - it wants to devour you.

And sin and temptation are the same way. You don't own it, it owns you.

Running Mind

Well, for the fourth night in a row, my mind is spinning and sleep is not knocking on my door (quite out of the ordinary for me). So to help unwind, I'm going to leave it here so hopefully I can crash.

1. Liz in one today. When did that happen!? I sure do love that girl a lot. She doesn't know it yet but her aunt is pretty much wrapped around her finger more tightly every time I see her. I can't wait to celebrate her on Saturday!! Erin wrote an amazingly sweet blog and posted some great pictures. Check it out!

2. Things at work are kind of weird this year. They are changing and the stress levels are WAY up. I haven't felt this in years. I'm on a major learning curve this year and it has majorly overwhelming moments. I wear a pin on my lanyard that says "Expect Miracles". This year, I praying for it!

3. I can honestly say that I have never fully understood the meaning of having your heart tugged at but the past two days have pulled and twisted so many times. God is busy with some pretty significant lessons here and they keep me up at night. That is another blog for another day though. I'm sure it will come soon so keep your eyes open.

4. I made a pretty shocking decision yesterday. Women across the country will think I am nuts but I'm very peaceful about it. I've decided to stop attending the Bible Study led by Beth Moore (at least for this semester). I had a choice to continue with the study or to join a small group of girls that meets on Tuesday nights. Since relationships/community is one area God has been working with me, I decided to go with the small group.

5. I am torn between the American, westernized church and what we are called to be in Scripture. I see big discrepancies in my life and what we are called to. Again, another blog for another time.

6. I have the BEST bible class ever! My breath is taken away at the sincerity and hearts of the people I do this thing called life with. They are amazing!

7. I'm thankful for brainless books and TV to give me mental breaks!

8. Kindergarteners can make me laugh quicker than just about any age group. They are SO funny!

The Fun Theory

Holly sent me a link to this website called The Fun Theory and I just had to share the videos with you. Each is only a minute and a half long. The idea is that by making something fun, people's behavior can change. In short, I want to live where these people are. Amazing and fun! :)

The Bottle Bank Arcade Machine (Recycling Glass Bottles)


Piano Staircase (take the stairs rather than the escalator)


The World's Deepest Bin (Throw trash in the trashcan)

Worry Amended

I totally forgot to share something with you about worry. You may know this already but humor me for a minute. Clint was sharing that in his study for the lesson, he decided to look into the origins of the word "worry". Now, he could have stopped after this because it is a one lined sermon. Ready?

The word "worry" originates from a word that means "to strangle".

If that doesn't speak volumes, I don't know what does!

Casting it on Him

Tonight at Koinonia, we talked about worry. We spent a lot of time in Matthew 6 are a few related verses. By the end of the evening, one of the conclusions we reached was that worry is a lack of faith. Worry shows doubt in not only what God can do but who He is. We spent some good time talking about casting our worries on Him and taking up His yoke. So I've decided to ask you to come aside me in casting some worries off. Below are some prayers that I am lifting up and covet your prayers along these lines.

1. Health - Things are a conundrum with my health again. The last appointment, the doctor threw out some words that sucker punched me. The medications are not working which means I'm not working. Satan speaks lies to me using this in many ways. My prayers are that the doctors can figure out something that will work, that I'll have peace through this, and that Satan will quit messing with me through it.

2. Singleness - not anywhere near as bad as it has been in the past but I feel it trying to sneak up on me. I just want to nip any discontentment in the bud.

3. Work - I'm still trying to find my footing in my new position. I'm just needing some assurance that something is making a difference. I still miss my old position but this is what I've been entrusted with for the year.

4. Finances - I really want to knock some things out but things keep popping up. I just want to be a good steward of what I've been given but I need to catch a break from things breaking. :)

5. Faith - To have a persevering faith that does not doubt but keeps relying on God. Some days it is hard to remember that not only have my prayers been heard but answered.

Words of Warning

Early last spring, I took a good long look at my life and decided that I was officially becoming a hermit. I spent much time praying that God would take me out of that cycle and help me to get a life. I prayed for things to become active in and for people to build community with. Fast forward eight months and now I am praying for a weekend to breathe. :) I'm so thankful but juggling everything is insane! Here are my weekend for the next few months:

Oct 16 - 18 - Community Pot Luck and Game night

Oct 23 - 25 - Liz's 1st birthday party (WHAT!? That was TOO fast!) and a friend's shower (in the evening)

Oct 30 - Nov 1- the end of the busiest week known to man (well, besides creation), Watch Liz and Dinner with the Bhutanese/FirstFest

November 7 - 9 - class hiking trip on Saturday and shower for Bladen on Sunday

November 13 - 15 - OPEN

November 20 - 22 - Jill's wedding

November 27 - 29 - Thanksgiving

December 4 - 6 - Sitting by the phone for a call about Bladen and Christmas Store

December 11 -13 - Sitting by the phone for a call about Bladen and Class Christmas Party/Celebration

December 19 - 21 - OPEN

December 25 - 27 - Christmas

So if I don't make it down to Pleasanton before Christmas, I hope you'll understand! :) So my words of warning, be careful what you pray for! It is a HUGE blessing but man, I'm thankful for this weekend to rest up for what's to come!

So is this just me or is anyone else busy?

Wonderful, Merciful, Savior

For me, the concept of mercy has been one that has alluded me. I've understood grace for about three years now. I didn't understand redemption until about 8 months ago. What can I say, I'm a recovering legalist. Learning the character of God and who He is continues to be a relatively new reality for me. However, He is faithful to teach me about Himself in the small doses that He deems me ready for. Tonight, He decided I was ready to understand His mercy.

We are studying Revelation this fall in an 11 week overview of the book. It is hard and heavy but SO good! Tonight we covered the first 6 seals (yes, you read that correctly). It was pretty intense. Reading about the judgements to come can be overwhelming and dismaying (to say the least). At the end of the lesson, we talked about some reasons we are so anxious about what we find in the Revelation. One idea presented was that we are merciful people, not wanting to see disaster fall on people - especially of an eternal nature. She said something that then opened my eyes to the meaning of mercy. We are merciful because we are created in the image of God - our Merciful God.

We read about His patience and desire for all to be saved (II Peter 3:9), His heartbreak in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 33:10-11), and His compassion on those doomed to eventual destruction (Jonah 4:2). If we feel such torment over the souls of our fellow man (even those we do not know), how much more torment does their Creator feel for them?

She made this statement and it kept me in my seat for a good 5 minutes after the study was over, frozen in humility. Everyday that we wake up and are still on this earth, it is God shedding His mercy on those He desires to turn to back to Him. He is holding back His judgement from those still in need of Him.

I will never grumble about a morning given again - no matter how my soul aches to finally be home. He is a wonderful, merciful Savior!

Words From the Wise Doctor

The other day I was looking for a quote and found myself wrapped up in the wisdom of Dr. Seuss. Enjoy these words to live by:

Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.

I like nonsense. It wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient to living, It's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope. Which is what I do, And that enables you to laugh at life's realities.

Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.

The more you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you'll go.

Today is gone. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.

Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive that is Youer than You.

Stewardship

I've been think a lot about stewardship over the past few weeks. In every relationship, walk of life, and responsibility I've been given, I am starting to see it all as an opportunity to be a good steward. God has blessed me abundantly and now I need to step up in all areas for His glory. Here are some areas that I have been considering:

- Time - How am I using my time? Is it for the sake of others or for myself? Who benefits from my daily activity and focus? Does my calendar reflect my priorities? Am I honoring the Ancient of Days by making the most of this twinkling of an eye?

- Body - Am I making the most of this body? I have been blessed with full use of my body and mind but am I keeping it in shape? Am I honoring the One who knit me together by what I put in or how I exercise by body?

- Money - Am I being wise in the choices I am making? Am I being responsible with what I have been given? Am I honoring the Giver and Provider with what He has entrusted to me?

- Environment - Am I being the caretaker I have been created to be? Am I doing what I can to take care of my current home (this earth)? Am I honoring the Creator by caring for His creation?

What is all comes down to is honoring Him with all we are and all we've been given. It's amazing how great a task that is when you stop and actually think about it.