I need sleep!
I laid down at 9:00 last night. I was out like a light. Then I awoke to the pains of a Charlie Horse in my left calf. You know what that's like. It's happened to all of us. After that, I couldn't go back to sleep. Cramp. Cramp. Cramp. UGG!
I should have just gotten up and moved to the couch, but Hurley was all cuddled up next to me. His purr should have been enough to lullaby me back, but no. I couldn't disturb the little one, so I laid there. Starring at the clock.
Once I finally fell back asleep I felt Tim jolt up. Awake, again.
Then, the alarm went off.
Don't you LOVE nights like that! :-)
Tonight, I'm in bed by 8:30! Tim won't even be home from practice yet, but I'll be asleep when he gets home!! :-)
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Monday, August 27, 2012
Halfway!
I'm halfway through my masters!!!! Actually, I'm halfway plus a class! The best part, I've managed to keep a 4.0 through this process. (I DID NOT have a 4.0 in undergrad. I wasn't even close!)
School has always been hard for me. Maybe that's part of why I wanted to teach. School is something I have to work at, and even then I may not get the best score. In fact, I would often feel discouraged when "friends" would ask what I got on a test or a paper. I wouldn't want to answer because I knew it wouldn't be up to their standards.
Maybe that's why I'm working so hard in my masters. Part of me just wanted to prove to myself that I COULD do it! And, 6 classes in, I have!
So, here's the the last year! My plan is to graduate in May. I hoping to graduate with honors, although I don't think they announce them when your a graduate student. (I think they should!! After all, we are not only working on a degree, but we are working full time too!)
Anyone else going back to school? Maybe we could share horror stories!
School has always been hard for me. Maybe that's part of why I wanted to teach. School is something I have to work at, and even then I may not get the best score. In fact, I would often feel discouraged when "friends" would ask what I got on a test or a paper. I wouldn't want to answer because I knew it wouldn't be up to their standards.
Maybe that's why I'm working so hard in my masters. Part of me just wanted to prove to myself that I COULD do it! And, 6 classes in, I have!
So, here's the the last year! My plan is to graduate in May. I hoping to graduate with honors, although I don't think they announce them when your a graduate student. (I think they should!! After all, we are not only working on a degree, but we are working full time too!)
Anyone else going back to school? Maybe we could share horror stories!
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Joy List
On a day when I arrived at work at 6:30 a.m. and left at 7:00 pm I needed to write down things that make me feel joy.
1. Upon seeing a spider the size of a half dollar crawling toward me at an alarming speed a little boy in my class jumped up and smashed his guts. He then grabbed a tissue and cleaned the guts up off the floor. Seriously, he was my hero today! I hugged him and told him this and he never said a word. Just smiled from ear to ear and sat down. I *heart* him.
2. Tomorrow I plan to make tutrle brownies. Chocolate always brings me joy.
3. My hubs put a roast in the crock pot this morning. This meant I didn't have to cook dinner after my almost 13 hour work day. This made me a happy wife!
4. My husband is laughing at a T.V. show and it makes me melt. I love to hear him laugh. Especially when he "belly" laughs. It's cute.
5. After our faculty meetings my team decided to get our plans together for next week (this is why I worked nearly 13 hours today). We'd been planning for nearly 2 hours when the automatic lights turned off. My friend jumped up to flip the switch back on when she saw a shadow and screamed and jumped. Needless to say I screamed because I'm jumpy too. I've never seen four girls laugh so hard. Unless you count the time Heather tackled me in the hallway, or the time the little one told the Mormon one she'd pack her bags, or the time Roomie caught the microwave on fire. Ok, girls laugh hard a lot!
6. My college friends fill me full of joy!
7. The cooler temps are wonderful. I love it when it's about 70 during the day, but then drops down to 50-60 after dark. The sun is so warm, but the breeze is cool and crisp. Ahhh, fall!
8. From September until New Years is my favorite time of year. September is just around the corner and I can't wait for all the wonderful things this fall will bring. (Including two new babies!)
9. I became an aunt to my "step" nephew last October, but this December I will become a real aunt to my first niece! I can't wait to hold her, and to love her, and to spoil her! She will love her aunt Rissa! I'll be way cooler than her other aunts!
10. My kids from last year told their teacher this year that I should be nicknamed "huggy bear" because I give the best hugs. Although I'm not crazy about being called "huggy bear," I'm so glad that they remember that I love them. They make me feel like a million dollars when I walk down the hall and they wave. It also feels so rewarding to see ten of them show up at my door before school starts just so they can say hi. I love what I do! It makes 13 hours days worth it.
1. Upon seeing a spider the size of a half dollar crawling toward me at an alarming speed a little boy in my class jumped up and smashed his guts. He then grabbed a tissue and cleaned the guts up off the floor. Seriously, he was my hero today! I hugged him and told him this and he never said a word. Just smiled from ear to ear and sat down. I *heart* him.
2. Tomorrow I plan to make tutrle brownies. Chocolate always brings me joy.
3. My hubs put a roast in the crock pot this morning. This meant I didn't have to cook dinner after my almost 13 hour work day. This made me a happy wife!
4. My husband is laughing at a T.V. show and it makes me melt. I love to hear him laugh. Especially when he "belly" laughs. It's cute.
5. After our faculty meetings my team decided to get our plans together for next week (this is why I worked nearly 13 hours today). We'd been planning for nearly 2 hours when the automatic lights turned off. My friend jumped up to flip the switch back on when she saw a shadow and screamed and jumped. Needless to say I screamed because I'm jumpy too. I've never seen four girls laugh so hard. Unless you count the time Heather tackled me in the hallway, or the time the little one told the Mormon one she'd pack her bags, or the time Roomie caught the microwave on fire. Ok, girls laugh hard a lot!
6. My college friends fill me full of joy!
7. The cooler temps are wonderful. I love it when it's about 70 during the day, but then drops down to 50-60 after dark. The sun is so warm, but the breeze is cool and crisp. Ahhh, fall!
8. From September until New Years is my favorite time of year. September is just around the corner and I can't wait for all the wonderful things this fall will bring. (Including two new babies!)
9. I became an aunt to my "step" nephew last October, but this December I will become a real aunt to my first niece! I can't wait to hold her, and to love her, and to spoil her! She will love her aunt Rissa! I'll be way cooler than her other aunts!
10. My kids from last year told their teacher this year that I should be nicknamed "huggy bear" because I give the best hugs. Although I'm not crazy about being called "huggy bear," I'm so glad that they remember that I love them. They make me feel like a million dollars when I walk down the hall and they wave. It also feels so rewarding to see ten of them show up at my door before school starts just so they can say hi. I love what I do! It makes 13 hours days worth it.
Monday, August 20, 2012
#Blessed
This post isn't about that website where you # everythign you say. No, this post is about church.
I grew up in church. I actually went to church the very day I came home from the hospital. I was baptized in that very church. I was married in that church. That church was my life.
But something was missing. Although I grew up in church it didn't seem to be enough. My parents had always been an example to my brother and I, but I could see that something was missing there as well. There was a joy that was lacking.
When Tim and I became engaged we had to make some big decisions. I had a graet job in Whitley County. A job that I would be able to keep if I stayed, but Tim was in seminary 90 miles away. We debated where to live. Here. There. We struggled with it.
Then I realized that until I moved away I would never find religious freedom. So, we moved. I quit my job. (Boy did I get rediculed for that!) We took a leap of faith! As school came around I hadn't found work. Many told me it was because I had made a bad decision. So, I started believing that. Little did I know the Lord was teaching me lessons about Faith, Love, and Trust.
After a month of no promises of work money was running thin. I was beginning to worry that we wouldn't be able to make it. That Tim would have to quit seminary. That I had destroyed my teaching career. Worst of all, we'd visited tons of churches and hadn't found anyhting that led me to believe that Christ centered churches existed. But then, when things seemed lower than ever God showed up BIG!
One night I literally laid face first in the floor and cried out to God. I begged with him to open my eyes to all that I was missing. I pleaded with him to show me his way. In that moment of weakness I felt his strength. Things started to change.
Tim had heard about this church called Vineyard. They claimed to be a church of faith, hope, and love. They claimed to serve the community. They claimed to do a lot of things. I was sceptical. But we decided to vist.
This is where everything changed. For the first time in years I felt freedom. A weight was lifted. The spirit of the Lord was there. Alive. Active. Stirring in the hearts of the church.
We saw the church loving the city of Lexington. We served along side our church members. We came as we were, but change was expected. But this post isn't about that...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three years later Tim and I are still members of VCC. This past Sunday our church held a back to school blessing for the students in the area. It was a big deal. There were ballons, t-shirts, braclets, and school supplies gallore! But that isn't what I want to share.
Kevin prayed over the students. Parents laid hands on their kids. Strangers prayed for strangers. The kids were full of joy. But then, Kevin prayed for me. He prayed for teachers. He poured out blessings on us. He prayed for protection. He prayed for peace. He prayed for our well being. He prayed that we would not be silent. He prayed that we would be a light for our students, parents, and co-works.
I can honestly say I've never felt the Holy Spirit quite like I did on Sunday. It was like I could literally feel something magical happening inside me. It was the first time I've ever had someone pray so openly for me, for my career, for my mission in life. Words really can't even express it.
They handed out braclet's Sunday. What they say describes everything that I am feeling in this moment in my life. Not just because my pastor prayed for me, but because my God is pouring out his blessings everyday in my life. Is life perfect? No! Do I have bad days? Yes. But am I blessed? 100%, Yes!
I grew up in church. I actually went to church the very day I came home from the hospital. I was baptized in that very church. I was married in that church. That church was my life.
But something was missing. Although I grew up in church it didn't seem to be enough. My parents had always been an example to my brother and I, but I could see that something was missing there as well. There was a joy that was lacking.
When Tim and I became engaged we had to make some big decisions. I had a graet job in Whitley County. A job that I would be able to keep if I stayed, but Tim was in seminary 90 miles away. We debated where to live. Here. There. We struggled with it.
Then I realized that until I moved away I would never find religious freedom. So, we moved. I quit my job. (Boy did I get rediculed for that!) We took a leap of faith! As school came around I hadn't found work. Many told me it was because I had made a bad decision. So, I started believing that. Little did I know the Lord was teaching me lessons about Faith, Love, and Trust.
After a month of no promises of work money was running thin. I was beginning to worry that we wouldn't be able to make it. That Tim would have to quit seminary. That I had destroyed my teaching career. Worst of all, we'd visited tons of churches and hadn't found anyhting that led me to believe that Christ centered churches existed. But then, when things seemed lower than ever God showed up BIG!
One night I literally laid face first in the floor and cried out to God. I begged with him to open my eyes to all that I was missing. I pleaded with him to show me his way. In that moment of weakness I felt his strength. Things started to change.
Tim had heard about this church called Vineyard. They claimed to be a church of faith, hope, and love. They claimed to serve the community. They claimed to do a lot of things. I was sceptical. But we decided to vist.
This is where everything changed. For the first time in years I felt freedom. A weight was lifted. The spirit of the Lord was there. Alive. Active. Stirring in the hearts of the church.
We saw the church loving the city of Lexington. We served along side our church members. We came as we were, but change was expected. But this post isn't about that...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three years later Tim and I are still members of VCC. This past Sunday our church held a back to school blessing for the students in the area. It was a big deal. There were ballons, t-shirts, braclets, and school supplies gallore! But that isn't what I want to share.
Kevin prayed over the students. Parents laid hands on their kids. Strangers prayed for strangers. The kids were full of joy. But then, Kevin prayed for me. He prayed for teachers. He poured out blessings on us. He prayed for protection. He prayed for peace. He prayed for our well being. He prayed that we would not be silent. He prayed that we would be a light for our students, parents, and co-works.
I can honestly say I've never felt the Holy Spirit quite like I did on Sunday. It was like I could literally feel something magical happening inside me. It was the first time I've ever had someone pray so openly for me, for my career, for my mission in life. Words really can't even express it.
They handed out braclet's Sunday. What they say describes everything that I am feeling in this moment in my life. Not just because my pastor prayed for me, but because my God is pouring out his blessings everyday in my life. Is life perfect? No! Do I have bad days? Yes. But am I blessed? 100%, Yes!
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Outlet Store
I am in love with the Gap Outlet store in E-town. A few months ago Tim and I stopped in because I needed to exchange a pair of pants that I'd gotten for my birthday, or Christmas, or something. While there we noticed a lot of clearance items and started browsing. Tim managed to score 3-4 shirts for under 2 bucks a piece! I scored a pair of cute dress shoes 70% off and a cute dress shirt for just a few bucks.
Last night we were heading home after spending some time with Tim's parents. Since we had to drive right past the outlet store we decided to stop in. Upon leaving we had scored a pair of jeans, 3 polo shirts, a short sleeve sweater shirt, and a nice long sleeve top for 57.00. The jeans Tim bought were originally 60.00. So, for the price of the jeans we basically got 5 shirts free. Seriously...amazing!
If you are in E-town you should check the Gap Outlet store out!
Last night we were heading home after spending some time with Tim's parents. Since we had to drive right past the outlet store we decided to stop in. Upon leaving we had scored a pair of jeans, 3 polo shirts, a short sleeve sweater shirt, and a nice long sleeve top for 57.00. The jeans Tim bought were originally 60.00. So, for the price of the jeans we basically got 5 shirts free. Seriously...amazing!
If you are in E-town you should check the Gap Outlet store out!
Routines
Tim and I sat down to make a plan for this school year because it always seems that we are too busy to get anything done other than work. We made a list of chores that need to be done each week and then divided them out evenly throughout the week. Yes, divided them. Tim does chores. Go on, hate me because my husband does chores. He's amazing. I know!
It seems doable that I can do laundry twice a week. It seems doable that I can clean a bathroom once a week. It seems doable to clean our floors once a week. The schedule seems doable. Until 12 hour work days begin. Then...
We'll see.
My mom asked me the other day why I was so scared to have children. My answer...I can't even keep my house clean now. How does one go about working full time, being a mom, and keeping a house clean? I just don't understand how these women do it! If anyone has an idea I'd love to hear how YOU do it! Someday mom, someday!
For now, I'm going to stick to no children and trying to keep our house clean! If anyone has any advice as to how you do work and cleaning I'd love to hear!
It seems doable that I can do laundry twice a week. It seems doable that I can clean a bathroom once a week. It seems doable to clean our floors once a week. The schedule seems doable. Until 12 hour work days begin. Then...
We'll see.
My mom asked me the other day why I was so scared to have children. My answer...I can't even keep my house clean now. How does one go about working full time, being a mom, and keeping a house clean? I just don't understand how these women do it! If anyone has an idea I'd love to hear how YOU do it! Someday mom, someday!
For now, I'm going to stick to no children and trying to keep our house clean! If anyone has any advice as to how you do work and cleaning I'd love to hear!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
List
1. My alarm went off at 5:00 a.m. which is too early.
2. Our classrooms were "release" to us Friday and I since then I've worked 48 hours to get my classroom ready and teach the first day. That's 58 hours in 5 days.
3. That's too many hours!
4. I have a good class. Only 21 compared to 28 last year!
5. 7 kids makes a big difference!
6. I'm tired and all I want to do is take a nap.
7. I can't take a nap, I have 2 papers due tomorrow!
8. Did I mention I'm tired!
Seriously, I had a great first day of school. Probably the best first day I've ever had. But, I am dead dog tired! Now, off to write two papers!
2. Our classrooms were "release" to us Friday and I since then I've worked 48 hours to get my classroom ready and teach the first day. That's 58 hours in 5 days.
3. That's too many hours!
4. I have a good class. Only 21 compared to 28 last year!
5. 7 kids makes a big difference!
6. I'm tired and all I want to do is take a nap.
7. I can't take a nap, I have 2 papers due tomorrow!
8. Did I mention I'm tired!
Seriously, I had a great first day of school. Probably the best first day I've ever had. But, I am dead dog tired! Now, off to write two papers!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Prayer
It's been a long week and it's only Monday.
I could use some prayers! School starts back up on Wednesday and I'm not ready. Not because I don't want to go back to school, because I do. I'm not ready because our building isn't ready. In less than two days I'll have a classroom full of kids and I still don't have enough desks in my room. I don't have my classroom set up 100%, and today they were still drilling and installing things into my room. So, you can see why I'm not feeling ready! I also have two grad classes wrapping up this week and next. This means lots of assignments that are due. Like the research paper that is due Thursday and I haven't started! Or the reflection that is due soon that I haven't started either! There just isn't time!
So, if you could, pray for me! I need some peace in my life. I also need to focus on what's most important in my life. I also need to set healthy boundaries between work and home!
Thanks!
I could use some prayers! School starts back up on Wednesday and I'm not ready. Not because I don't want to go back to school, because I do. I'm not ready because our building isn't ready. In less than two days I'll have a classroom full of kids and I still don't have enough desks in my room. I don't have my classroom set up 100%, and today they were still drilling and installing things into my room. So, you can see why I'm not feeling ready! I also have two grad classes wrapping up this week and next. This means lots of assignments that are due. Like the research paper that is due Thursday and I haven't started! Or the reflection that is due soon that I haven't started either! There just isn't time!
So, if you could, pray for me! I need some peace in my life. I also need to focus on what's most important in my life. I also need to set healthy boundaries between work and home!
Thanks!
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Light Fixture Fail
No, this isn't a post about Tim and I installing a light fixture. It's actually quite the opposite!
Thursday morning Tim was getting ready to head to work when I heard a crash in the bathroom. I came to Tim's rescue to find him staring at a light bulb cover that had fallen out and landed in our tub. It's just a thin little plastic piece that covers the light bulb. Nothing major. Tim simply re-installed the thing and went about his day.
On Friday I had a really long day. They FINALLY released our rooms to us at school on a temporary permit, (we are under construction) and I worked from morning till night. I was tired. I was hot. I was gross. I decided to take a nice warm bubble bath. I got all nestled in and had a wonderful time soaking in the tub. I had just looked up and had seen the fixture back in its spot and though what would happen if that thing fell while I'm in here? On about my bath I went. Until...
CRASH!
That darn thing fell out again. It crashed into the side of the tub before slicing the tip of my pinky finger nearly off. I felt the throbbing immediately. I looked down and there it was. Red dripping everywhere. Grabbing the cut I jumped out of the tub yelling I'M CUT! I'M CUT! IT GOT ME! Tim had already made it to the door. He sees me holding my pinky and sees blood splattered all over the tub and simply asks me what I've done.
There I stand, no clothes, bleeding, and trying not to cry because my pinky finger feels like it has been cut off.
Upon first glance Tim mentioned the words hospital, but I quickly shot that down! By this point I had moved to the bed, still holding my finger with a towl that was now covered with blood. I am laying there and Tim asks what I need. My answer, clothes. And at that we both cracked up. I have tears streaming down my face, although some of them may have been from the pain.
Two days later I still have a giant gash in my pinky finger. It's also bruised, which is why I think it hurts so bad. It sliced the tip in a circle, but left just enough skin that it's still connected. I swear, only I can almost die by light fixture. (Exaggerated a bit!)
Thursday morning Tim was getting ready to head to work when I heard a crash in the bathroom. I came to Tim's rescue to find him staring at a light bulb cover that had fallen out and landed in our tub. It's just a thin little plastic piece that covers the light bulb. Nothing major. Tim simply re-installed the thing and went about his day.
On Friday I had a really long day. They FINALLY released our rooms to us at school on a temporary permit, (we are under construction) and I worked from morning till night. I was tired. I was hot. I was gross. I decided to take a nice warm bubble bath. I got all nestled in and had a wonderful time soaking in the tub. I had just looked up and had seen the fixture back in its spot and though what would happen if that thing fell while I'm in here? On about my bath I went. Until...
CRASH!
That darn thing fell out again. It crashed into the side of the tub before slicing the tip of my pinky finger nearly off. I felt the throbbing immediately. I looked down and there it was. Red dripping everywhere. Grabbing the cut I jumped out of the tub yelling I'M CUT! I'M CUT! IT GOT ME! Tim had already made it to the door. He sees me holding my pinky and sees blood splattered all over the tub and simply asks me what I've done.
There I stand, no clothes, bleeding, and trying not to cry because my pinky finger feels like it has been cut off.
Upon first glance Tim mentioned the words hospital, but I quickly shot that down! By this point I had moved to the bed, still holding my finger with a towl that was now covered with blood. I am laying there and Tim asks what I need. My answer, clothes. And at that we both cracked up. I have tears streaming down my face, although some of them may have been from the pain.
Two days later I still have a giant gash in my pinky finger. It's also bruised, which is why I think it hurts so bad. It sliced the tip in a circle, but left just enough skin that it's still connected. I swear, only I can almost die by light fixture. (Exaggerated a bit!)
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Joy List
I'm stealing this idea from my friend, Heather . I think it's good to think about the things that bring you Joy in life. I think it's important to know what they are, and to run to them when you need to. So, here is my joy list.
1. My savior.
2. My church and the freedom it brought to my life.
3. Tim, who loves me no matter how difficult I am.
4. My parents, who support me and love me.
5. My brother, who amazes me with his strength!
6. My Inner Ciricle
7. Millie and Hurley. It's amazing how pets can make you happy when nothing else can.
8. Our new home!!
9. Sheldon and the Big Bang crew.
10. Friends
11. The one that shared her love of Friends with me. The one that I can quote any season, any episode, any time and she can name it and relate to it.
12. My momma's porch.
13. Hearing "Mrs. Weeks!" as I walk into my school building.
14. Opening a door to a home visit, telling a child I'll be there teacher next year, and them screaming, "YES!"
15. Kentucky Basketball and my nana who shared her love of the sport.
16. National Championships!
17. My nana. She is so wise, and so funny. I believe I love her more than anyone on this Earth. I miss her so much and wish I could see her more! She can grow flowers like no one else!
18. Memories. Like the time we put Johnny above Roomies bed. Or the time Tim proposed. Or the time my best friend called to tell me she was engaged. Or the time we decorated our suite for Christmas. Or the time roomie set the microwave on fire making fudge. Or the time the little one threaten to pack her bags. Or the time my best friend told me she was pregnant and I thought she was talking about her brother and I literally almost passed out when I realized what she had just said. Or the time Tim wore that new blue shirt and when he got in bed we realized he was dyed blue. Seriously. I laughed all night over that! The time we beat Ohio State, or North Carolina, or anyone! the time my mom came up to watch the National Championship game and then we went to Rupp Arena to great the Wildcats on their return home. The time WJHS made finals when no one said they could. I was so proud, like their own mother. I cried tears of joy, hugged all my kids, and was blessed to put medals around some of the necks! So. many. memories!
19. My momma, who is now my best friend. She gives of her self so freely. It's really inspiring.
20. My parents new church, which as brought them freedom to worship.
21. Getting flowers.
22. Fall and the beautiful colors that it brings.
23. My WJHS kids and the fact that they call me momma twix.
24. M&M Blizzards
25. Italian food!
26. Lists :-)
27. Baking, and an oven that actually works!
28. My new tub, that has jets, that I would live in if Tim would allow it!
29. School supplies.
30. Even numbers.
And that's my joy list for today. I have much to be thankful for.
1. My savior.
2. My church and the freedom it brought to my life.
3. Tim, who loves me no matter how difficult I am.
4. My parents, who support me and love me.
5. My brother, who amazes me with his strength!
6. My Inner Ciricle
7. Millie and Hurley. It's amazing how pets can make you happy when nothing else can.
8. Our new home!!
9. Sheldon and the Big Bang crew.
10. Friends
11. The one that shared her love of Friends with me. The one that I can quote any season, any episode, any time and she can name it and relate to it.
12. My momma's porch.
13. Hearing "Mrs. Weeks!" as I walk into my school building.
14. Opening a door to a home visit, telling a child I'll be there teacher next year, and them screaming, "YES!"
15. Kentucky Basketball and my nana who shared her love of the sport.
16. National Championships!
17. My nana. She is so wise, and so funny. I believe I love her more than anyone on this Earth. I miss her so much and wish I could see her more! She can grow flowers like no one else!
18. Memories. Like the time we put Johnny above Roomies bed. Or the time Tim proposed. Or the time my best friend called to tell me she was engaged. Or the time we decorated our suite for Christmas. Or the time roomie set the microwave on fire making fudge. Or the time the little one threaten to pack her bags. Or the time my best friend told me she was pregnant and I thought she was talking about her brother and I literally almost passed out when I realized what she had just said. Or the time Tim wore that new blue shirt and when he got in bed we realized he was dyed blue. Seriously. I laughed all night over that! The time we beat Ohio State, or North Carolina, or anyone! the time my mom came up to watch the National Championship game and then we went to Rupp Arena to great the Wildcats on their return home. The time WJHS made finals when no one said they could. I was so proud, like their own mother. I cried tears of joy, hugged all my kids, and was blessed to put medals around some of the necks! So. many. memories!
19. My momma, who is now my best friend. She gives of her self so freely. It's really inspiring.
20. My parents new church, which as brought them freedom to worship.
21. Getting flowers.
22. Fall and the beautiful colors that it brings.
23. My WJHS kids and the fact that they call me momma twix.
24. M&M Blizzards
25. Italian food!
26. Lists :-)
27. Baking, and an oven that actually works!
28. My new tub, that has jets, that I would live in if Tim would allow it!
29. School supplies.
30. Even numbers.
And that's my joy list for today. I have much to be thankful for.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
F.R.I.E.N.D.S
I've been blessed to have an amazing circle of friends. Girls that love me for who I am. Girls I laugh with, cry with, pray with, and love with. Girls that have supported me and encouraged me. When I began college I met an amazing group of girls. We had funny names for our group. We endured crazy conditions. We supported each other in the great times, and in hard times. We even got together a few weeks ago for our 10 year reunion of when we met. Times were great, and I love that we still keep in touch.
I also have what I call my "inner circle," the girls that I could not function without.
I have my college roomie. The original roomie. The one that I went to high school with but really didn't know until college. The one who was there when I broke up with my idiot boyfriend and helped put my pieces back together. The one who cried with my when I lost my granddad, came to his funeral, and was there the first holiday without him. The one who laughed with me when I did stupid things. The one who I confessed my "crush" to, the one I confessed him as being the love of my life to, and the one I called and asked to be my Maid of Honor when he proposed. The one who called out of the blue and I had FroYo with tonight just because we both needed a break from life. The one I can tell anything to and know that she will pray till her knees hurt.
I have the one who I met my freshman year of college but didn't really talk to until my junior year. The one who co-created the MKL. The one I hung out with every Friday night for three straight years in college. The one I shared my first apartment with. The one that helped my hubs pick out my engagement ring. The one that got married two weeks before me. The one that I have shared all my married secrets with. The one that is literally my family here in Nicholasville. The one that is expecting her first baby and begged me to get pregnant so we could do it together. The one that will call me "aunt Rissa" when her baby boy is born. The one that I love like a sister. The one that just moved 45 minutes away and I'm not sure how to function now that she isn't next door.
There is also the one that I met my Junior year of college. She was the one that I tried to scare away because she was a freshman living in our not freshman suite. The one that I can be sarcastic with. The one I can laugh hysterically with. The one that tackled me in the hallway of our dorm and the other suite mates thought we hated each other. The one I use to call "heater" and the one that use to call me "smelly lake duck". The one that my hubs called to help him pull of his proposal. The one that I called first after he proposed. The one that lives in the land of the orange, but I know deep down loves blue. The one that loves storms and will send pictures, videos, and texts just to freak me out. The one that I watched fall madly in love, and despite what many said, has a beautiful, successful relationship with the man of her dreams. She's the one that I can trust with my life and I know she'll take it to the grave. The one I can talk religion with and know I won't be judged. The one I hardly ever see, but I know we'll always be just as close as we are now.
So, here's to the "ones". The ones I met in college. The ones I couldn't live without. No matter where life takes us, you will always be the "ones".
I also have what I call my "inner circle," the girls that I could not function without.
I have my college roomie. The original roomie. The one that I went to high school with but really didn't know until college. The one who was there when I broke up with my idiot boyfriend and helped put my pieces back together. The one who cried with my when I lost my granddad, came to his funeral, and was there the first holiday without him. The one who laughed with me when I did stupid things. The one who I confessed my "crush" to, the one I confessed him as being the love of my life to, and the one I called and asked to be my Maid of Honor when he proposed. The one who called out of the blue and I had FroYo with tonight just because we both needed a break from life. The one I can tell anything to and know that she will pray till her knees hurt.
I have the one who I met my freshman year of college but didn't really talk to until my junior year. The one who co-created the MKL. The one I hung out with every Friday night for three straight years in college. The one I shared my first apartment with. The one that helped my hubs pick out my engagement ring. The one that got married two weeks before me. The one that I have shared all my married secrets with. The one that is literally my family here in Nicholasville. The one that is expecting her first baby and begged me to get pregnant so we could do it together. The one that will call me "aunt Rissa" when her baby boy is born. The one that I love like a sister. The one that just moved 45 minutes away and I'm not sure how to function now that she isn't next door.
There is also the one that I met my Junior year of college. She was the one that I tried to scare away because she was a freshman living in our not freshman suite. The one that I can be sarcastic with. The one I can laugh hysterically with. The one that tackled me in the hallway of our dorm and the other suite mates thought we hated each other. The one I use to call "heater" and the one that use to call me "smelly lake duck". The one that my hubs called to help him pull of his proposal. The one that I called first after he proposed. The one that lives in the land of the orange, but I know deep down loves blue. The one that loves storms and will send pictures, videos, and texts just to freak me out. The one that I watched fall madly in love, and despite what many said, has a beautiful, successful relationship with the man of her dreams. She's the one that I can trust with my life and I know she'll take it to the grave. The one I can talk religion with and know I won't be judged. The one I hardly ever see, but I know we'll always be just as close as we are now.
So, here's to the "ones". The ones I met in college. The ones I couldn't live without. No matter where life takes us, you will always be the "ones".
Monday, August 6, 2012
Positive Attitude
I've come to realize that there are many things in life that you just can't control. Life throws us on curves, bumps, and climbs each day. All these events are unwanted, and many times we (I) let them get us (me) down.
Things like:
1. Terminal brain cancer to a friend of mine. She has a high school daughter who has to face loosing her mom someday unless there is a miracle.
2. Terminal spinal tumors that are full of cancer. Radiation will allow for extended life, but no treatments can cure. Again, only a miracle.
3. Stillborn babies/Not being able to be pregnant when you desire more than anything to have a child. Not to mention you'd make/you are an amazing mommy!
4. Child molestation that robs someone of their entire childhood. Of peace. Of relationships. Of life.
5. Depression rooted so deep that you struggle to see the impact you make in those around you.
6. Negative work environments.
The list could go on and on. These are just a few things that have been brought to my attention in the last few months.
Here's the deal. Here is what God has been speaking to me...loudly. We can't always control our situations. We can't always determine the way life will go. What we can do...we can choose to face our life with a positive attitude and spirit. We can choose not to allow Satan to take hold. We can choose to breath life affirming words rather then life stealing words.
We have a choice. A choice that I struggle to make correctly. A choice that I need to work on every. single. day. A choice to be positive. A choice to live out each day the best that I can. The choice to make a difference, even if just for a second.
I had a high school teacher who would do announcements every morning of my high school career. At the end of every session he would say, "Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours."
This teacher passed away a few years ago, but his message will live with me forever. Every single day I have to live by his words. "Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours." So, what do you choose? I choose to live. I choose to be more positive. I choose to look at things differently than I have in the past. Bottom line, I need change in my life, and that change begins today!
Things like:
1. Terminal brain cancer to a friend of mine. She has a high school daughter who has to face loosing her mom someday unless there is a miracle.
2. Terminal spinal tumors that are full of cancer. Radiation will allow for extended life, but no treatments can cure. Again, only a miracle.
3. Stillborn babies/Not being able to be pregnant when you desire more than anything to have a child. Not to mention you'd make/you are an amazing mommy!
4. Child molestation that robs someone of their entire childhood. Of peace. Of relationships. Of life.
5. Depression rooted so deep that you struggle to see the impact you make in those around you.
6. Negative work environments.
The list could go on and on. These are just a few things that have been brought to my attention in the last few months.
Here's the deal. Here is what God has been speaking to me...loudly. We can't always control our situations. We can't always determine the way life will go. What we can do...we can choose to face our life with a positive attitude and spirit. We can choose not to allow Satan to take hold. We can choose to breath life affirming words rather then life stealing words.
We have a choice. A choice that I struggle to make correctly. A choice that I need to work on every. single. day. A choice to be positive. A choice to live out each day the best that I can. The choice to make a difference, even if just for a second.
I had a high school teacher who would do announcements every morning of my high school career. At the end of every session he would say, "Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours."
This teacher passed away a few years ago, but his message will live with me forever. Every single day I have to live by his words. "Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours." So, what do you choose? I choose to live. I choose to be more positive. I choose to look at things differently than I have in the past. Bottom line, I need change in my life, and that change begins today!
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Just Another Saturday
It seems no matter how hard we try we never have a day to just rest. We really do enjoy staying busy, although I'm not always sure that's always healthy!
This morning came early, 6:30 early. No sleeping in at this house. I had a back to school rally to go to. Fayette County hosts rallies all over the county each year. They serve food and then hand out free food to the students that show up. Sounds easy enough. This was the first time I've been able to help out at one of these rallies and it wasn't that easy! There were kids and parents everywhere! We served hundreds of hot dogs and the kids lined up for hours to get their free backpacks full of supplies. Everything was super regulated and I was scared I would do something wrong! All of this was happening as important board members walked around smiling and waving at the kids. They always scare me!
With that said, I love my kids. I love the fact that I can be standing across the park and I hear kids screaming, "Mrs. Weeeeeeks!" (Their little Spanish accents are so cute!) I love the fact that they smile all. the. time. I love that they are still young enough to love me. I love the fact that they forgive me for not being perfect, and that they understand that I want the best for them. I love the fact that they can't wait to tell me every detail of their summer even though most of them didn't leave Lexington. I love the fact that their hugs can turn the worst day upside down. I love the fact that they teach me so much about life, and about appreciation, and about being grateful.
And that is why I love what I do. It isn't about the money, or the summers off, (trust me, I don't take much time off) or even about teaching. It's about the relationships that are built and the differences that are made in their life, but also in my own life. I'm actually starting to look forward to school starting back! I only hope that I can grow and be better than I've ever been before.
This morning came early, 6:30 early. No sleeping in at this house. I had a back to school rally to go to. Fayette County hosts rallies all over the county each year. They serve food and then hand out free food to the students that show up. Sounds easy enough. This was the first time I've been able to help out at one of these rallies and it wasn't that easy! There were kids and parents everywhere! We served hundreds of hot dogs and the kids lined up for hours to get their free backpacks full of supplies. Everything was super regulated and I was scared I would do something wrong! All of this was happening as important board members walked around smiling and waving at the kids. They always scare me!
With that said, I love my kids. I love the fact that I can be standing across the park and I hear kids screaming, "Mrs. Weeeeeeks!" (Their little Spanish accents are so cute!) I love the fact that they smile all. the. time. I love that they are still young enough to love me. I love the fact that they forgive me for not being perfect, and that they understand that I want the best for them. I love the fact that they can't wait to tell me every detail of their summer even though most of them didn't leave Lexington. I love the fact that their hugs can turn the worst day upside down. I love the fact that they teach me so much about life, and about appreciation, and about being grateful.
And that is why I love what I do. It isn't about the money, or the summers off, (trust me, I don't take much time off) or even about teaching. It's about the relationships that are built and the differences that are made in their life, but also in my own life. I'm actually starting to look forward to school starting back! I only hope that I can grow and be better than I've ever been before.
Friday, August 3, 2012
One month anniversary
Tim and I have been homeowners for a whole month! We made our first mortgage payment this week, YIKES! Now that it's raining again we've had to mow our yard. I've had to call the handyman to repair the trim (which he STILL hasn't done, he's got until Tuesday or else). We really are homeowners!
If you'd asked me 6 months ago if I thought we'd be homeowners I would have said something like this. I dream about being a homeowner, but no, we won't be able to buy anytime soon. I remember having serious conversations about renting a house that some friends of ours were trying to sell. I remember being devastated when we passed on that opportunity because I didn't think we'd find another one like it. I felt so frustrated, and angry that God was telling us NO!
Now, I laugh. God told us NO for a very firm reason. Shun was our reason! We love our house! Sure, we have some work to do. There are little things here and there. But it's our home! It already has so many of our touches. It already has great memories. There are still so many memories to be made here.
When I think about Tim and I it makes me happy. We've come along way in seven years. Seriously, seven years! We were so young and silly when we fell madly in love. We talked about getting married almost instantly. Now look at us. We have grown so much! We are trusting God so much more now than we did then. I'm proud of who we are becoming. I can't wait to see where we go.
Ok, I'm done! Mushy, sentimental stuff over!
If you'd asked me 6 months ago if I thought we'd be homeowners I would have said something like this. I dream about being a homeowner, but no, we won't be able to buy anytime soon. I remember having serious conversations about renting a house that some friends of ours were trying to sell. I remember being devastated when we passed on that opportunity because I didn't think we'd find another one like it. I felt so frustrated, and angry that God was telling us NO!
Now, I laugh. God told us NO for a very firm reason. Shun was our reason! We love our house! Sure, we have some work to do. There are little things here and there. But it's our home! It already has so many of our touches. It already has great memories. There are still so many memories to be made here.
When I think about Tim and I it makes me happy. We've come along way in seven years. Seriously, seven years! We were so young and silly when we fell madly in love. We talked about getting married almost instantly. Now look at us. We have grown so much! We are trusting God so much more now than we did then. I'm proud of who we are becoming. I can't wait to see where we go.
Ok, I'm done! Mushy, sentimental stuff over!
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