Missing BIGhouse

It’s not a secret that I have a soft spot for teenagers. Their naïve and youthful spirit is both annoying and captivating. One minute they are thoughtful, the next they are caddy and unpleasant. I suppose it’s easiest to just blame the raging hormones.

While teenagers can be overwhelming at times, their thirst for life speaks volumes. I am constantly surprised at the amount of knowledge they each seem to possess. Each teenager has a different talent – a special story that is unique to only that person. It truly is amazing if you consider everything that is going on in the brain of a teenager. There is a class that focuses on the adolescent brain, and I so badly want to take it. How interesting would it be to try to pick that thing apart?! I know we will never figure out the reasoning behind teenager behaviors. Why am I cool one minute and the next I get the “what’s wrong with you?” face? When I am around teenagers, I am constantly treading water. I love every minute of it.

At church last Sunday we sang a song very familiar to me. Hillsong United’s “From the Inside Out” was very popular when I was a leader at BIGhouse (a church youth group). I loved watching the kids congregate in the community center as they swayed with their friends with hands in the air. It was so powerful. I loved being a part of the spiritual growth of each student. They were all in different places in their lives. While I didn’t personally know them all, I knew that I was setting an example by just being there. It was one of the most rewarding times of my life – in my faith. Those kids were so cool.

I’m hoping to get involved with a new youth group once I am more settled. I am excited about teaching, but I would like to help reach students beyond the classroom. I would love to serve as a testament that shows how faith can guide and challenge us to be lights to everyone we meet. 

A New Challenge

I’m going to go ahead and admit that I’m bored with my half marathon training. I am in desperate need of a new challenge. I am in my final week of training. This Saturday I will be completing my first half marathon. I am proud of myself for pushing myself on my long runs. I also must say that I really enjoy long runs. There really is nothing better than the feeling after being out on the trails for over an hour.

There comes a point in any training where your body gets used to the routine. The boredom is in more than my mind. My muscles are tired of pounding the pavement. I have done an average job of adding intervals and weight training, but I often feel like I don’t have enough knowledge to do it effectively. I have come up with a temporary program that has lasted me the past few weeks. I just know that I ready to be pushed on a new level.

I have been researching various training programs in the area. Many of them include weight and resistance training – just what I need. I have participated in kickboxing, cycling, pilates, and weight training classes before. I love how they push and guide you to achieve more than you would individually. I really loved the kickboxing class I took. The instructor incorporated stretching and abs along with plyometrics and hard-core punching. She was very knowledgeable and committed to helping out her students.

Kosama is a program that incorporates much of the same things. I have seen them around, so I decided to look into the program. Just yesterday I stopped by to learn more about enrollment. I was informed that the next start date isn’t for another four weeks; however, the guy said that with my experience I would be able to start Monday! I am so excited! Hopefully I don’t pass out on Saturday because come next week I will be starting a new fitness journey! Yippee!

A Slice of Humility

Not all days are good days. Recently I was re-reading one of my favorite books, God Never Blinks, and I was reminded that we never have bad days, only bad moments. Of course, this doesn’t make theses hard moments any easier.

We tend to search for answers to the bad moments. Why is this happening to me? Is this a sign? What should I do next? It almost feels like we are punished when things are going too well; however this is not true. Each bad moment happens for a reason. Every imperfect situation drives us to where we need to go next.

The speaker at my sister’s graduation talked about her husband’s health issues. She realized after his recovery that she was given a ‘slice of humility’ to ground her – help her appreciate the blessings in life. Sometimes we get comfortable with a life that seems to be heading in the right direction. These bad moments remind us that we are not in control. Our lives are planned out, and we need to continue to take the next right step. We also need to be grateful for the slices of humility that we are given, for they are just as important as the good times in life.

I’m enjoying a slice of humility right now in my life. I’m savoring it as I wait for the next blessing.

A Selfless Gig

I guess I have a lot on my mind today. Post #2, here ya go :-)

Have you ever been around someone that only talks about themselves? Of course you have; we all have. In fact, I’m guilty of being that person. Sometimes I come home thinking, “Did I seriously just talk for two hours straight?” I feel like I have a lot to say, but that doesn’t give me the right to selfishly take center stage every time I leave the house.

We all have issues to discuss, problems to solve, and stories to share. It is just as important to listen as it is to talk. No matter if the person in front of you is a shy introvert or a chatty Kathy, everyone should be given the ability to have a friend listen.

I have a tendency to become disappointed and even a bit broken hearted when the people closest to me forget the “big things” in my life. I am probably a little more sensitive than I need to be, but I feel like friends and family are there to support. I make great efforts to remember events that are happening with my loved ones. I want them to feel loved, because they are. It is a selfless gig, but one of the most important ways to show people we care. 

Out of the Ordinary

Last night around 6:00, I was ready to go to bed. I contemplated what time would be acceptable for me to move my butt from the couch to the queen size. I was one tired lady after all of the events of the weekend.

As I watched – more like, just stared at – a special on HLN, I started reflecting on the past few days. It was an eventful and strange weekend all rolled into one. I realized that I was emotionally and physically drained. No wonder my eyelids were so heavy.

It all began Friday evening when I was on my way to meet up with some old and new friends – a very random group, which I love. It was raining on and off for most of the day, and as I made my way west on the interstate, my brakes went a little funky. I told myself they were just wet from the rain and preceded to my weekend socializing. Out of sight, out of mind. In the meantime, I learned from my parents that my Molly girl (the best Carin Terrier in the world) had passed away. It was a lot to let soak in, and a red BRAKE light popping up on my dash didn’t help one bit.

Saturday began with a long run to clear my mind. I was feeling quite somber and… just plain sad. As I ran, I noticed millions of dogs out and about. I was really missing Molly.

I drove my car to the store for some milk and realized that it was not drive-able. Ugh. I made my way to the auto parts store to find out that I need a brake line (whatever that is). I spent the afternoon waiting for my car. Doot, doot, doot.

Saturday night was also filled with old and new friends. I had some girlfriends in town from my old work, and we ventured to places that I rarely visit. It was quite the night, and it left me feeling very tired and sluggish on Sunday.

To top off all of the ‘out of the ordinary’ events, I went to church Sunday morning to find an old neighbor in the pew behind me. We were able to catch up, and I had a friend to sit by during the service. A very unexpected – and good – surprise!

Wowza! Now I’m gearing up for another week. I hope to get caught up on sleep, especially since I have my half marathon next Saturday!

What Am I Doing?

I’ve been ‘preparing’ for next school year. I use that term very loosely, as I really am still a little bit lost at where to start. Much of the preparing is simply in my head. I’m still wrapping my mind around what I will be teaching, where I will be living, what the kids, staff, and community will be like, and the list goes on.

As I ponder all of these thoughts, this one seems to pop in my mind quite a bit: “What am I doing?” Sometimes it’s hard to picture myself in my school, standing in front of my students, teaching. I know I want to put my own stamp on my classroom, but I’m unsure of what that really is; therefore, I’ve found myself second guessing every once in a while.

Luckily, I have a few people that I turn to for some encouraging words. My mom is always there to listen and add in comments and her thoughts on the situation. She is always there, no matter if I’m having a problem or just want to chat. Always.

My best friend, Katherine, has been an amazing support and resource during the past few months. She is a teacher and ‘gets’ my situation because she was in a similar one when she began teaching. I’ve mentioned before how good she is at telling me what I need to hear, when I need to hear it. She’s an incredible person and friend.

My dad has been my logic throughout this whole transition. He understands the teacher lifestyle and is practical when he offers advice. When I pose the question: “What am I doing, Dad?” He simply says, “This is what you need to be doing. This is good for you.” I instantly feel better – right back on track.

Molly Girl

Last night my family said a final farewell to one of our own. We had our Carin Terrier for nearly 17 years. Molly was more than just our dog; she was our friend and companion. Whenever I went home, I could count on her greeting me with bark and wag of her sweet little tail.

When my sister was just learning to walk, my family decided on a puppy. Our family friends were breeding Carin Terriers, so we went out to pick our new friend. Molly was the runt, and with the cutest little under-bite, my family got a ‘deal’ on her. From the moment we brought her home, she was loved.

I loved how she resembled Toto from Wizard of Oz, and of course, Sarah used this to her advantage by being Dorothy for Halloween. I wish I could remember where the name Molly came from… I’m sure my brother knows. However, I do know that her middle name – Frasier – is after Tommy Frasier who once played college football for Nebraska. We had to compromise a little for the sports fanatics in my family.

I know everyone says this about their pets, but Molly was the best dog. She was friendly, didn’t shed, rarely barked, and was always ready to be pet on her belly. My dad spoiled her, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. We would joke about her being ‘such a stupid’ dog, but deep down we loved her so much.

Molly’s final weeks were rough. She wasn’t eating – not even Cheerios, which was her favorite people food. I would feed her bread when I went home, because that was all she would consume. She was frail and unable to walk. It really was time for her to go. I am not sure what it will be like when I go home. She won’t be there to lounge on the floor with; she won’t be there to pet her belly. I will forever miss her presence in our home. 

One of my favorite memories of Molly was when my dad came home with a marshmallow gun. Who really knows why he bought it, but it was pretty fun to shoot mallows around the house. As we would shoot each other, Molly would run and eat ‘em up before we had a chance to blink. She made us all smile.

My family lost a piece of us this weekend. We love you, Molly girl.

Too Young To Know

I would like to preface today’s posting by saying, I realize that I am not old.

So here we go. I wish that people would just recognize the era they were born in and stay there. Like, I was born in 1985; therefore, I don’t claim that I know much about the 80’s. After all, I was only five when we entered the 90’s. I don’t act like I was puffing up my hair and carrying around a Polaroid camera. Don’t get me wrong, I was all about Slinkys and leggings paired with scrunchies to match. But the 90’s and there after are truly ‘my decades.’

I’m not sure why it bothers me so much when teenagers start talking about listening to Boyz II Men and watching All That on Nickelodeon. Seriously, you guys were only, like two-years-old. How can you possible remember singing “On Bended Knee” on a cassette tape? Oh, that’s right, you can’t.

Wow. I’m kind of fired up. Probably because I loved the 90’s. Can we please go back to when Saved By the Bell was the only show that mattered and grunge clothes were made popular by Kurt Cobain? Man, where did my overalls and Doc Martins ever end up? That was sure the life, wasn’t it?

Today’s teenagers, I have a question for you: Do you know all the words to “Ice-Ice Baby” and “This is How We Do It?” I didn’t think so. You are simply too young to know. 

Crabby Cook

I get really tired of people talking about my lack of cooking skills. No, I don't really cook. Yes, I am a female. When did slapping on an apron and whisking up some pudding become part of the definition of being a woman? Let me defend myself in saying the reason I don't cook is not because I can't. In fact, when I put my mind to it, I can produce some pretty mouth-watering dishes (sometimes).

Here are a few reasons I choose not to cook:

1. Time. It's not that I can't find time to cook, but rather, I don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. As soon I start pulling ingredients and dishes out, I'm annoyed. It takes me an hour to cook a plate that I eat in 7 minutes. Annoying.

2. Amount of ingredients. I look through a recipe and think, "What does all that crap even mean?" Sorry I don't have chives laying around to add to the top of my potato soup. If there are more than five ingredients, I'm out.

3. Clean up. Ugh. There is nothing worse than have dishes piled up from sauteing and broiling who knows what. I hate that you have to wash a measuring cup that only had breadcrumbs in... I mean, no one is going to know if you just stick that puppy back into the drawer. And all you are left with are raisin fingers from doing the dishes. No, thank you.

I sound like a sour puss, but I'm okay with that. I'll have Grape Nuts and bananas until my face bleeds. So, maybe some day I will be choose to be a renown cook. Until then, you can call me the 'crabby cook.'

Routine Ready

My seasons are all mixed up. After graduating in December, I moved right into summer. However, I didn't get the sunshine and carefree feel of the short summer months. I was granted a highly flexible schedule that recently has been driving me crazy.

Today marks the end of my 'summer' and the beginning of a brand new routine. While I may regret saying this already next week, but I really can't wait to start. I will be on a 'normal' schedule that resembles the rest of the working world as I begin a nannying job for the summer.

I am excited about this for many reasons. First of all, no nights and weekends. After serving and bartending for so many years, I cannot wait for normal hours. Knowing that I can actually make future plans is such a good feeling.

I also can't wait to get to know the kids. I am so glad that they are a little bit older. We are going to have a fun summer full of all kinds of activities. As I laid down to go to bed last night, my head was spinning with different ideas for the summer. So much to do, so little time ;-)

I'm most excited for a routine! I am going crazy here. I hate loafing around and not feeling like I have an actual purpose to my day. I have been working on school work; however, it's only May 22nd, and I am not even 100% sure about the classes I will be teaching next year. At any rate, I'm ready for a routine. In fact, I was ready last week... last month. Bring it on!

Eek!

Simply Support

My family survived graduation weekend. Of course, Sarah cried like an emotional wreck after the ceremony. My mom directed the kitchen helpers, while Dad scooted chairs around and assured the dogs were in their proper places. The entire day went off without a hitch. And, most importantly, Sarah graduated with honors. Yes, I'm one proud sister :-)

At the end of the night, my parents and I sat down to reflect on the day and share stories from friends and family. My mom mentioned that there were only a handful of people on the guest list that didn't attend. We had family friends from all across Iowa and even Minnesota travel to share their support. Sarah had old friends from camp, and an uncountable amount of teenagers bop in and out of our house. Old teachers and friends in the community gathered to congratulate my sister. It was so cool. 

I realized that my family has an incredible support system. The community that I was raised in is full of people that care and support each other. As I sat at commencement, I looked around, realizing how great the high school I graduated from really is. When comparing it to other schools, the resources, teachers, and student body exceed much beyond many other small Iowa schools. The truth is, they we have a lot to be proud of. I hope Sarah really recognizes the amazing experience she has been a part of.

I was also humbled by the amount of people that expressed their congratulations to me as I embark on my first year of teaching. I have grown up in a world full of teachers, and they all had smiles on their faces as we talked about teaching and the rewards that come from the amazing profession. It was heartwarming to be in the mix of so many incredible people. 

This was not hard to do yesterday... I am feeling very blessed :-)

The support of friends and family is simply the best. 

The Graduate

Yes, my friends, the day has come. My little sister is graduating from high school! I cannot begin to express how proud I am of her. She has grown up so quickly and doesn’t let any of us forget that. Next fall, she will be embarking on a new adventure. I am a little nervous about her being on her own, but mostly very excited. Even though she scares me a little bit when it comes to directions, I know she will find her way.

Sarah is a little fireball. Her emotions are grand. If she’s hurt, she’s actually dying. If she’s happy, she’s euphoric. Some may call this dramatic; we just call it Sarah. The key is finding her in that perfect mood when she’s willing to share her thoughts, feelings, concerns, and smiles. Finding this is really an art, and I’m so close to perfecting it.

My hopes for her next year? Of course, more than anything, I want her to find happiness. I want her to smile and laugh openly and freely. I know how contagious her smile is, and I hope that she spreads it across campus.

I want Sarah to be who she wants to be. We all struggle to ‘find ourselves.’ We ask advice and watch others flourish and struggle, all in hopes of trying to figure it out for ourselves. The fact is, at the end of the day, we are individuals. We live with the decisions we make. I want Sarah to make her own decisions, and be happy living them out each day.

Always remember to have fun! Honestly, we live each day as it comes. We take the next right step. While we may not know for sure what that step is, I can assure you that having fun is always in the mix. Enjoy each day – rain or shine, happy or sad. Learn from mistakes. Grow. Make friends. Never forget how much fun life really is.

Sarah Bear, you have been the most amazing friend and sister to me. I am so excited to watch you grow into an even more beautiful young woman. I love you!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

Summer is officially here! Last night I went with some friends to the Iowa Cubs game downtown Des Moines. Between an ice cold beer and a box of Cracker Jacks, we were in heaven... baseball heaven. We laughed our way through the game, and honestly missed quite a bit of the actual game. We are such girls.

The bronzed legs and sun-kissed faces are only days away as the summer inches it's way into Iowa. In only a matter of time, kids will be out of school, biking the streets and splashing in the pool. Doesn't that paint a glorious picture in your mind?

Maybe this will help....

To be honest, I'm not a huge baseball fan. I would much rather watch softball, but who doesn't love a man in uniform?

This was just the beginning of an exciting weekend. I've got a date with a theatre chair, big gulp, and a giant tub of popcorn tonight... oh, and my friend, Beth, will be there too. TGIF blogging buddies!

All Rolled Into One

Well, day number 573 of unmotivation. Every time I think I'm going to get some inspiration, I am distracted and mildly disappointed.

I spent the past few days at home, helping my mom prepare for my sister's graduation. I also snuck in some lounging and TV time (wait, am I becoming lazy?)... As I made my way back to the metro, I stopped along the way at a new coffee shop. I thought for sure a new spot would rejuvenate my mind and creativity. Well, I'm writing this, aren't I? I am still staring at my school stuff and sipping on an iced coffee. Maybe if I got off Facebook chat, I would have a better chance at getting work done. The worst part is, I don't even know what this "work" consists of; I'm not sure where to start. My mind is running in a million directions (I'm sure you can tell by the flow of this paragraph).

I really like how this coffee shop prepares their iced coffee. It may be a little too sweet, but so am I, right? ;-) I like the atmosphere too... quiet and clean. However, the location is not very close to my house... ugh. The one closest to me (that my mom loooves) leaves me smelling like a big coffee bean for the rest of the day. If I wanted my hair to smell like the establishment, then I would buy expresso shampoo.

My favorite coffee shop is on the main street of my favorite college town. I loved how they remembered me, and had my iced coffee prepared for me as I stood in line. It was such an interesting place that always made me smile. Their only downfall was not having wireless internet (unheard of, I know). If I ever wanted to get real work done, I had to venture to Panera Bread.

I'm starting to sound like a coffee shop-aholic. The other one I attend quite frequently when I go home has awesome music. While it is subtly played in the background, it leaves my foot tapping and my mind bouncing. My biggest beef with them? They don't understand my coffee order. I just gave up on them... I get hot tea when I go there, which is fine.

If only... In a perfect world... I could just get all of these wonderful places rolled into one.

A Good Run

I took full advantage of the perfect Spring weather this morning. According to my training calendar, 8 miles were on tap for the day. Lately my long runs have not been good at all. I have felt sluggish and even out of breath. It is frustrating and discouraging. I am not really following a 'normal' routine, and it leaves my running a little bit confused. The final few weeks of training, I am going to make a point to seek a little bit of that 'normal' I love so much.

With that being said, I had a wonderful run this morning. The wind was still, roads were clear, and the sun was shining. Doesn't get much better than that, huh? I kicked those 8 miles in the a$%. Yea, I said it. I felt like I was flying through the streets of my small town. Granted, I had to run around and through my town a couple of times to get all of the miles in, but I didn't mind one bit.

There really is nothing better than a good run. For those of you who are not runners, it may be hard for you to fully understand. However, for those of you that are, can I get a 'hell, yea!?'

I've got to get my butt to the dentist, but I hope y'all have a great day ;-)

A Few of My Favorite Things

Last night was the season finale of “Smash,” and, of course, I loved every minute of it. I didn’t really anticipate getting so into the show, but I am so very glad that I did. As the season wrapped up with an incredible number by Katharine McPhee, I realized why I love the show so much. It’s full of a few of my favorite things… such as:

Musicals. While I was never into drama in high school, I always appreciated the art behind plays and musicals. I think it is so fun to watch all types of productions. I remember being required to attend "Sweeney Todd" in college, and I absolutely loved it. The work put into drama productions is very admirable. 

Marilyn. The show is based on a Broadway play about Marilyn Monroe. There is something overly intriguing about her life and the tragedy of her death. The iconic photos of Marilyn are simply incredible. 

The one and only Marilyn...

Intertwined plot. My favorite books, movies, and shows tend to include twists that mix together characters. It keeps me entertained and on my toes. "Smash" definitely added some unexpected twists that made the plot boil up right on into the season finale.

I can't wait for next season! If y'all missed out, you should spend your summer catching up on the first season. I'm telling you, it's amazing :-)

Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty

Mom's Day

Well as you all know, yesterday was Mother’s Day. While I was unable to spend the day with my mom, she was on my mind and in my heart all day. Of course, we chatted on the phone a few times throughout the day.

Holidays and special occasions raise a lot of mixed emotions and even unsettling feelings. With the upcoming high school graduation of my sister and the absence of both of my grandmothers, yesterday was full of ups and downs for my family members. All in all, we have a lot to be thankful for.

My mom is a very special lady. She is strong, caring, helpful, and always willing to listen. There are times I find myself saying a phrase or making an action that is nearly identical to my mom. While this used to bother me, I realize now that I am lucky to be like my mom.

I am looking forward to seeing my mom this week, so we can share a giant hug, a few laughs, and many smiles. I love you, Mom.  

Be Kind

The epidemic of lives lost to bullying is startling. I am an avid watcher of "The Ellen Degeneres Show," and she has taken a stand against teasing, physical and emotional violence among teens and even adults. I've noticed that in recent shows, she leaves the show by simply stating, "Be kind people." Is it that simple? And if it is, why are we not practicing kindness?

While I have not seen the movie "Bully" yet, I am pleased by the amount of attention it is bringing to the growing problem that seems to be making it's way around the world. I was able to teach Please Stop Laughing at Me, a memoir by Jodee Blanco. She takes her readers down a disheartening path of all types of violence that started as a child and led into her adult years. Remarkably, by sharing her story, she is able to bring awareness to people of all ages.

And remember..... :-)

Maybe Next Time, Zac

Last night turned out to be completely unexpected. I met up with a friend for dinner and a movie; however, the movie didn't quite happen. While we both really do want to see "The Lucky One" at some point, we realized that staring at Zac Efron's washboard abs could wait. We had chatting and gossiping to do... and we were thirsty ;-)

After dinner, we moved on to another establishment, where every minute seemed to be entertaining. Within 10 minutes of sitting down, a man (well into his 60s) came up to drop a line, "You have the most beautiful eyes." Good one, buddy. He went on to explain that he played the guitar, and he just so happened to have it with him. Yep, you guessed it. He snagged his guitar - from who knows where - and sat down at a nearby table to serenade some other lucky ladies.

The fun didn't stop there. After the bar-back and bartender were convinced that my friend and I are obsessed with cats, we dove right into a conversation with a few pilots. I'm still not totally convinced they were really pilots or if they are our local garbage men. Of course they were from neighboring states and full of stories. One seemed to have an obsession with ketchup, while the other told me he doesn't like animals. My only question is: where do these people come from?

It's hard to believe this all happened on a Wednesday evening. All that tells me is that this weekend is going to be amazing ;-) So Zac, maybe next time I'll catch your flick.

Let Your Hair Down

Pandora, you've done it again. You've read my mind and left me smiling as I jam out and sip on iced coffee. Sounds like quite the life, huh? I realize that I am not living in 'real life' right now. As soon as this summer hits, and of course next fall, I will be back in a routine. Until then, I am letting my hair down.

What am I jabbering about? I just re-fell in love with Corinne Bailey Rae's "Put Your Records On." Literally, I dare you to not smile and bop your head along to this song....

"Three little birds, sat on my window. And they told me I don't need to worry..."

"The more things seem to change, the more they stay the same. Oh, don't you hesitate..."

"I hope you get your dreams. Just go ahead, let your hair down..."

Hit the Books

I was making my bed this morning, when I looked over at the daunting pile of books that are stacked neatly in my room. I love books. I like them piled high on the floor, shelved carefully on bookshelves, and even shoved into my backpacks causing sore backs. It doesn’t matter if I’ve read them or not, I just love everything about them. There are tons of possibilities placed on the pages of every genre. Ahh, the life of an English teacher.

I may sound like I’m in heaven; however, the books I’m talking about are the beginning of a lot of work for me. They are the textbooks that I will be teaching out of next fall. After a conversation with my mom last night, I started to hit the books. I was thumbing through the pages, searching for short stories and poems that will grab the attention of my students. Tough job, let me tell ya.

I have had exceptional training from the University of Northern Iowa. I have immersed myself in different ideas and teaching philosophies in the past few years; however, now it is time to put it to the test. I will have quite a few preps next fall, so I am getting a head start. I have toyed with a few different ideas on how I want to structure my classes. Once I have a clear vision, I believe it will all fall into place. Until I find that vision, I need to hit the books!

Life's Staples

It's been a while since I lifted y'all up with a Motivated Monday! I feel pretty sluggish after a long weekend, so I am in some desperate need of motivation. I was cruisin' around on Pinterest and noticed this:

I can't think of anything else we should "be"...

Be silly. There are so many serious parts of life that often overtake the laughter and silliness. We should remember to goof around with friends, crack jokes, and even laugh at ourselves. When is the last time you were silly?

Be honest. I was asked in a recent interview how I planned on relating to my students. I simply said that I would be honest with them. In order for us to respect one another, we must be honest and upfront. There is no need to pretend. We are who we are; we all make mistakes; we all have questions. Honesty is truly the one and only policy.

Be kind. It all boils down to the Golden Rule. What is the use in being rude and unkind? There is no point, so be kind.

Let's try to remember life's staples as we move in to another week :-)

All Worked Up

I have a tendency to over-work my brain. I analyze and think situations to the ground. And why is it that things seem so much worse in the middle of the night? Last week, I tossed and turned, contemplated the ends and outs of a situation that has been bothering me. In the darkness of the night, I walked around my house, searching for a spot where I felt at peace. I made it back to my bed and eventually fell asleep. I really hate anxiety and those sick feelings that seep into our minds and bodies. I wish there was a real pill that just cleared all of them up.

As my heart pounds, I remember that the closest thing to a pill is prayer. The Lord’s plans the only way. Instead of getting worked up, we must surrender and trust. I find it hard to realize when it is my job to take initiative, and when I should return to the on-going annoying idea of patience. Why must patience be the answer to everything? And why is it so hard for me to trust and be patient?

I’m all worked up… and tired. Happy Sunday?

Passionately Curious

“A body in motion stays in motion.” I’m sure y’all have heard this time and time again. When I get up and moving in the morning, laziness doesn’t tend to set in; however, when I bum around, I feel like such a pile.

Have you ever thought about this saying in terms of your mind? It’s never okay to let your brain go sour. When we continue to exercise our minds, we are active learners, sharper, and more thoughtful.

Not only is important to keep brains moving, it’s important to allow them to move in every which direction. Left and right brains deserve to get some action!

How about curiosity? Do you allow your brain to wander – explore and dream up new ideas? When I was on my trip to Haiti, I was overly fascinated with one of the other team members. He seemed to have the most insightful thoughts. I truly couldn’t get enough of his wisdom. One day he said, “God didn’t bless me with a lot of talents. He blessed me with the curiosity to learn.” Wow.

We all have talents, but when is the last time we stretched ourselves beyond them? It made me wonder if I was living up to my full potential. Are any of us? Our greatest talents may be untouched – unthought of. Expanding our curiosity could be just the ticket to becoming something great.

 Quite the thought for a Friday, huh? Enjoy your weekend!

Late Night Laughs

This summer I have taken a nanny position for an energetic, love-filled family. I decided that after years of serving and bartending, I was ready for steady hours and a change of pace. I am really looking forward to getting to know the four kids and two dogs very well. I’m sure our summer will be filled with activities, sunburns, and lots of laughter.

While I am excited about this change of pace, I am a little bit apprehensive about being out of my comfort zone. A teacher and a nanny have a lot in common; however, it will much different than anything I’ve done before.

I got to thinking about my previous summers filled with laying out at the pool by day and serving by night. I will forever cherish those days. It was always so fun hanging out with my friends, sharing stories about stupid customers and the latest gossip. I guess we all have to grow up sometime.

One thing I always loved about being up late and serving all types of people was the point where we got loopy. There was always a point in the night were I started to get a tad sassy. Then the laughter would hit… and it wouldn’t stop. Everything is so much more humorous when it’s late and you are tired. The laughter made each night bearable, and dare I say, fun? Yes, sometimes I miss those late night laughs.

Thankful Thursday!

Better Than a Hallelujah

I admit that I get a kick out of Hoda and Kathie Lee (the fourth hour of the Today Show). They mesh well together as they discuss “news” and other worthless topics. Every so often Hoda shares her current favorite song. She sings along and asks the producers to pump up the volume. Kathee Lee generally rolls her eyes but plays along and dances to the beat.

One morning, Hoda shared Amy Grant’s “Better Than a Hallelujah.” I feel in love. It is peaceful, and the lyrics are spot on. As Hoda and Kathie Lee swayed along, I wasted no time buying the song on iTunes. I still listen to it quite often. It helps me remember our imperfections and the importance of prayer.

Jukebox Junkie

For those of you that go out on a regular basis, you can all relate to the dreaded moment when you review your back account after a night on the town. Where did I go? What did I buy? Holy cow, I tipped that much! Whoops! It’s all part of the game, and almost always worth the fun that comes along with the insanity.

The other day I was looking over my account when I noticed I had three $5 charges from somewhere south. I was very confused until I remembered the jukebox. Yep, that thing gets me every time! I guess I love having control over the music, and I get very upset when people ‘overplay’ my requests. I have been known to head straight to the jukebox as soon as I step foot into a new establishment. There are just so many great choices, and everyone loves tapping the feet and shaking their booties.

People are carrying less and less cash and relying solely on debit and credit cards. Of course, the jukebox companies recognized this and started allowing fools like me to charge music on cards rather than slipping in dollar bills. Don’t get me wrong; I love this. It is super convenient and allows everyone to play. It also gives me more of a chance to lose sight of how much money I’m spending on music.

At any rate, there is nothing better than music. I am proud to call myself a jukebox junkie.