This Year's Promise

Happy New Year's Eve! We are about to complete yet another year. Along with the top ten lists and nostalgic conversations, we are granted the promise of the upcoming year. This is a time when people start changing their diets, sweating in the gym, going cold turkey on their heaters, and vowing to be kinder to others. While all of this looks good on paper, how many of us actually carry out these promises to ourselves? I'm just as guilty as the next person. I want the next year to be the "best one yet." I love the idea of a fresh start, a new beginning.

To be honest, I hadn't really thought about a New Year's resolution, but this morning I was reading online articles posted on Thought Catalog. It didn't take long, and I was captivated by an article titled "7 Thing I Learned From A Year Of Confidence." It was then that I realized that this year is going to be about loving myself. I need to promise to care about myself, feel confident, and know my importance.

In the article, the writer had a conversation with another confident woman. She told her, "I love myself, and know that I'm good. I'm a good person, I try hard, I learn from my mistakes No one can take that away from me." What an amazing gift she is giving herself on a daily basis.

Too often we put ourselves down. We forget our self-worth. How can we expect to love others when we are continually beating ourselves up for petty things? Instead, we must look at all of the wonderful attributes we all have. Everyone is positively contributing in some way or another.

This year, I will focus on loving myself. Self-care and self-love are underestimated and so very important.

Weekend Lessons

This weekend, I did quite a bit of traveling. I'm beginning to wonder if I should get rid of my apartment and live in my car. As I drove home this morning, I started reliving how I got to where I am today. I won't bore you with details, but sometimes I feel like it makes a lot of sense. I'm teaching at my district for a reason. I am surrounding myself with these people, spending my time doing what I need to be doing at this point in my life. Other times, nothing seems to fit. I get frustrated because I feel alone, like no one I care about is sharing my life with me. I never doubt the overall plan; however, I do get aggravated.

It takes those moments of frustration to adjust our outlook. It won't always make sense, and that's okay.

We won't always know the plan, but we always have to be ready. Listen.

Starts today.

We are always learning and growing. 

Come Home

Merry Christmas!

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6

Last night, my mom and I watched the Christmas Eve service online. We were unable to make it to the church that I regularly attend, but I was just as happy to be a part of the service as it played across the silver MacBook. As always, I was impressed with the music and message of the Christmas story. The minister talked about Christmas being a time to "come home." There is a lot of brokenness and temptations that continually burn holes in our hearts, but Christ was born to grant us the amazing gift of grace. This is a time to reconnect with those that we love the most. It doesn't matter where "home" is; what matters is who we are with. Mary and Joseph were not "home" in Bethlehem, but they trusted God. They were together, obeying God, and that was what mattered to them. Where is "home" for you?

Another interesting thought that the minister brought up was loving those who are not always easy to love. Think about the people in your life. They are not always easy to love, right? We are humans and we make mistakes. "You know those people, and you still love them." Pretty powerful. Christmas reminds us of the love we receive from God, as well as the love we spread to others.

Have a blessed day :-)

When I Grow Up

What do you want to be when you grow up? It's the daunting question we've been asked since we could talk. As children, it's excited to think of the endless possibilities that lie ahead of us. As adults, we joke about how we haven't gotten it all figured out yet. For all of us, it's reality.

I remember being asked this very question. I remember thinking that I just wanted to be happy. I wanted to be in a profession that left me with a sense of fulfilled. I know that I was made for a purpose, to teach others. The crazy thing is that I didn't realize this until later. As you may already know, I went back to school to become a teacher after working the the marketing field for a short time. While it is not the most direct route, it has lead me to the greatest profession -- teaching.

One of the reasons I bring this up is because many - if not all - of the seniors are talking about next year's plans. They are being asked by everyone they see: What are your plans for next year? Annoying, but people are just trying to be friendly. Isn't it strange though? We are asking 17 & 18 year olds to figure out their futures. While I believe in my students, and I think teenagers are given a bad rap, it still is a lot pressure.

I've been thinking about how to help them through this process. What can I say to ease the tensions? What do I wish someone would have told me?

* You are not your past. So many kids come from broken homes that offer little hope. I hope that my students know that they can build a new life for themselves. I believe this to be true.

* Do what makes you happy. This is the first real decision that these kids can make on their own. I hope they follow their own hearts, not their friends or their significant others.

* Mistakes and regrets are okay. What can I say, they happen. It's okay to make mistakes, just not over and over. It's okay to regret, but don't dwell on it. They are both a part of life.

I hope that everyone can go home at night with happiness in their hearts. If life has thrown you a bad hand, seek the good that comes alongside. Oftentimes, it's hard to find; however, it's there.

Unscrooged Hearts

Why is it so hard to be genuinely happy for others? We've all been there. A friend gets engaged, a colleague gets a promotion, an acquaintance on Facebook just had "the best day ever." Ideally, I would cheer those people on with a huge smile on my face; however, part of me feels jealous and envious. I am not proud of this because it makes me feel like a terrible person. It makes me feel ungrateful, which is far from the truth.

This morning, I read a devotional by Max Lucado. He spoke of the "uneven compensation" that we often feel. Why does God allow certain circumstances to happen to someone else but not me? I look around and see happy people. Especially during this time of year, people are surrounded with friends and family; however, I often feel lonely. I start to question why my life is the way it is. I begin to compare myself to others and question what I am doing, and even worse, I question God's plan.

These toxic comparisons don't have to drive my heart. I have the power to change my attitude, my thoughts. How? Prayer. Just has Max Lucado suggested in his devotional, only the grace-given can give grace back. We must let grace "unscrooge our hearts." I love this idea. After receiving God's grace, we can give it back; we can genuinely be happy for others.

Not too long ago, someone asked me how to live in the moment. "How do I learn to appreciate where I am right now?" My best answer was to slow down. Look around you. The last day of school before Christmas break, I sat in our gym and looked around. I was overwhelmed with happiness. Yes, things are not perfect, but I am at this point in my life for a reason. I am blessed, and I must remember this during the Christmas season.

Need to Create

I teach a Composition course to (mostly) seniors. As the semester wraps itself up, I have been reflecting on how the course has gone and how I can improve my teaching for the second half of the year. Writing is complex. Everyone learns differently, and that couldn't be more true with writing. The only way to become a better writer is to write… a lot. For many of my students, this is frustrating. It is especially discouraging to those that struggle with writing or don't like it at all. 

The fact is, I have always been a good writer. It has always come easy to me. I don't usually have to spend a lot of time proofreading or editing. Writing ideas seem to pop up when I least expect them. More often than not, I can't wait to write. I sit down and the words just start pouring out. I need to create. However, I need to remember that this is rare. I can't expect everyone to love writing the way I do. 

My sister is wrapping up her college finals this week. She is a talented art major. While I don't have her artistic abilities, I can relate to her need to create. She gets inspired and pulls all-nighters (literally). It's an amazing gift that continues to amaze me. To be honest, I think she amazes herself sometimes. She left her final drawing class today and sent me a sadface picture. Funny, but I totally get it because I felt the same way after some of my writing courses. I loved learning, writing, and creating. I still do. 

Art and writing are alike in the sense that they are constantly evolving. Not only are there new artists, pieces of literature, and techniques, but also, we are never finished. Artists and writers are never done learning. We are constantly producing and growing. There is no end when creating. Sure, I get in ruts where my "juices are flowing," but at some point, I am refreshed. I find new inspiration, new words. At the end of the day, I have been blessed with the need to create. 

Spiritual Vocabulary

Recently, my grandpa sent me an article from Guideposts titled "A Word for the New Year." It was by the author Debbie Macomber. The whole idea behind the article was that we choose one word to carry us through the year. Some of her examples throughout her life have been: hunger, prayer, and balance. This word is something to focus on as the day progresses; it also serves as a tool in prayer.

I started thinking about my word. My thoughts and words often get jumbled, and I need a place to focus. More than anything, I usually have too many words floating around in my mind. What if I had just ONE word to focus on? Could this help me grow as a person? As a Christian?

My first thought was hope. More than once, I have talked to my sister about the idea of hope. She told me, "It's pretty much my favorite thing ever." I'll never forget this because it is so true... especially for her. She's a dreamer, and she relies on hope to carry her throughout her day, her life. I love the song "Hope Now" by Addison Road.

"I'm not my own. I've been carried by You all my life. 

Everything rides on hope now. Everything rides on faith somehow. 

When the world has broken me down, Your love sets me free."

As Christians, we rely on this hope to guide us through our lives. Surrendering to this amazing faith helps us find peace when life seems chaotic and confusing. Yes, hope is important to have in my spiritual vocabulary.

With this said, I don't think that hope is going to be my word. Grace seems much more fitting for me. This is going to be a challenge because I've always had a hard time grasping this concept. "Grace is accepting what is rather than resenting what isn't." I need this. I need to accept grace in my life and surrender to God's amazing plan. His gift to me is grace, and I will pass on this loving attitude to those around me. 

Do What You Love, Love What You Do

This morning, I decided to take advantage of the fitness classes that are offered at my gym. I was feeling great after circuit and kickboxing. I really wish more of the classes fit into my schedule, but I have a pretty crazy life right now, so it's not surprising. As I drove home and got cleaned up, I couldn't help but smile. This is my favorite way to start a weekend. 

I had a few of those 'smiley moments' this week, and I realize this is because I love what I do. I am blessed with a career that leaves me fulfilled at the end of the day. Often I am overfilled, but that just comes along with working with other people... especially teenagers.

It happens every so often that I make a point to step back and soak it all in. I had a substitute on Thursday, and the kids were great. But what made this even more sweet was the fact that they missed me. Obviously, they didn't come right out and say it, but I could tell by our interactions on Friday. They seemed to respect and appreciate me, and I couldn't ask for much more than that. 

While I love teaching, it is not my entire life. Many of my students think this, but it is far from the truth. I thought about this after my workout. I feel fulfilled when I am doing the things I love OUTSIDE of the classroom as well. In order to appreciate my career as a teacher, I have to get away. I have to step back. My students are on my mind quite a bit, but is also my job to stay healthy... inside and out. I need to stay in-check with myself. To be honest, I have not been doing a very good job of that lately. I have strayed away from my faith a little. I hate this. I feel distant, and it hasn't taken long to have impacted my attitude. This weekend is going to be a time to recharge and refocus. I am going to do that by doing what I love, and loving every minute of it. 

Taking a Timeout

It's been a while since I've written a post. I have been beyond busy. A couple of weeks ago, I started my job as an assistant varsity girls basketball coach. Even since then, I have been going and going and going (Energizer bunny style). I can't say this has been all bad, but it was really only a matter of time before I crashed. With that said, by Tuesday this week I started feeling sick. I decided to just take a timeout today. I stayed home, and it was just what I needed. Just like I expect my players to do, I need to listen to myself when I need a break.

Why is it so hard for us to admit when we need a break? I was going back and forth with myself. Should I stay home? Should I push through until the weekend? My decision came after thinking of my students. After all, my real job is making sure they are learning and that I am doing my best to make that happen. The truth is, when I feel like crap, I teach like crap. I felt that way on Tuesday and Wednesday. I was doing a disservice to my students, and I that is not who I am. I know that I will go back tomorrow feeling prepared and upbeat. I will be the teacher that my students expect when they enter my classroom. And the best part? Tomorrow is Friday :-)

Book Transformation

A few weeks ago, my co-worker and I went to an English teacher conference. It was two days and, for the most part, full of good information. Much of the conference was based on young adult literature. I loved this aspect, mostly because I love reading and helping develop young readers in my classroom. This is one of the biggest challenges as a teacher -- finding books that kids can relate to and creating life-long readers.

During one of the keynote speeches, the speaker went through a list of YA literature that she has found to be, in some way or another, transformative. I was jotting down book titles. There are just so many wonderful books that are waiting to be explored. Finally, the speaker flipped to The Fault in Our Stars by John Greene. She asked the room full of English teachers who had read it. Over half of the room raised their hands. "This book will change your life," the speaker announced. I looked around at the faces of my colleagues. Everyone was nodding in agreement. Their faces changed, and there was a murmur of comments from those that had been touched by this piece of literature.

It was only a matter of time before I clicked "add to cart" on Amazon. I started the novel last weekend and completed it Thursday night.... pause.... (Honestly, I don't know what to write because I am still a little dazed and speechless.) I will tell you I have never been that touched by a book. I was sobbing uncontrollably, feeling like the characters were my best friends.

It wasn't until now that I could (sort of) figure out what it was about this book that uncovered these feelings. The two main characters battle cancer; however, this is not the main focus of the book. It's about how they live with cancer, not how they die from it. They use humor as a way to deal with their insecurities. The dialogue between them is so real. It is exactly how teenagers speak.

I am not even doing this book justice as I write this post. All I can say is that if you don't believe in book transformation, you need to pick up this book. Savor it. Enjoy the remarkable craft of this author. Indulge in the characters, for they are amazing.

Zapped vs. Slow Cooking

Last spring, I took the Alpha course at my church. It was a really great experience that allowed me to grow in my faith and learn more about the Holy Spirit. During one of our small group chats, our leader spoke about how people come to faith. He used the analogy that some people have "microwave moments" that zap them; there is a "moment" that transforms them. For others, it's more of a process -- like a slow cooker. Interesting, huh?

Yesterday, I started thinking about this analogy in terms of learning. (As a teacher, there are not many things that don't turn into lessons.) Some people learn quickly, as if they were zapped by the learning microwave (maybe I should invest in one of those). Others learn slowly. They are a Sunday roast that has to simmer and warm up before poking it with a fork. If you take it out too soon, it will be tough and unappetizing. But when you wait for the right moment, it's perfect.

Many -- if not all -- education classes talk about differentiation. Teachers are expected, with good reason, to adapt our teaching styles to meet the needs of our students. While this makes a lot of sense, it is very complicated. I prep for four different courses in each day... now throw on the needs of nearly 150 different students. Can you see where the complications come in? I am not complaining, but rather painting you a picture. What I have realized is that the most important element of differentiated teaching is knowing my students. After all, if I don't know my students, how will I ensure that my teaching is intersecting with their learning?

So, what's better? Microwave or slow-cooker learning? Like most things, it depends upon the student. Consider this: You are on a flight crossing from America into Canada. If you sleep through the flight or if you are wide awake throughout the whole trip, don't you still land in Canada? Yep, you sure do. It doesn't matter the means of how you got there, only that you did. Learning is the same way. As a teacher, I care less about how students get there and more on the fact that they did.

While learning is complex, it is also absolutely amazing.

Crediting Myself

I have a hard time admitting when I am good at something. Deep down, I have confidence; however, I don't always express it because I don't want to look boastful. I know that I am not the only person that struggles with taking credit for doing something well. For some reason, I always think someone else can do it better. I lack confidence in my gifts. 

Today I had two different people reach out to me for help. One of them wanted help writing. She was searching for the right diction and grammar. More than anything, this person was hoping to sound scholarly as she prepares for the next step in her career. She assured me that I was the right person for the job. "Your writing always sounds smart." As I started looking through her pieces of writing, I couldn't help but thank God at that moment. He has blessed me with the gift of writing. Why can't I just admit that to myself? 

Later in the day, I headed down to our school's weight room. I am the assistant coach for our girls basketball team this year. A few of the girls asked me to teach them some workouts. It has actually been a lot of fun because I love planning workouts and developing circuits. As we were huffing and puffing from a set of lunges, a girl mentioned that I should be a personal trainer. I went on to say that I always kind of wished that I had pursued that in one way or another. We concluded with some abdominal exercises. "I don't get how to do that," she said with a confused look. It hadn't even dawned on me that someone wouldn't know what side crunches were. My body is used to bending and moving in those ways; however, these movements were foreign to her. I constantly compare myself to fitness experts, wishing I had more knowledge and wanting to look like them. I forgot that I have actually worked hard to stay healthy. 

Until today, I hadn't given myself credit for my gifts. It felt good to give back to others. After all, that's what those gifts are for. 

Yea, But...

Excuses. I am not a fan. The fact is, there are consequences to your actions. There is no way to avoid that one; however, what about when it's not your fault? What happens when the situation is out of your control? Are excuses okay then?

The teacher in me says, "Nope."

The compassionate person in me says, "Oh, I'm sorry. Let's work through this together."

The annoyed person in me says, "Figure it out."

The world says, "I don't care."

The truth stings a little bit, doesn't it? The other day, I was having a conversation with someone that has had a very rough past. This person has been dealt a very unfair hand, and much of it is not his fault. In many ways, he's too young to have seen and heard these situations and conversations. As I heard this story, I wanted to offer hugs, words of encouragement, and even cut him a break. I thought more about it later and realized that this is not what he needs. The world doesn't care about his story. In other words, he needs to just move forward. While I believe that everyone's story does matter, this is not the view of the world. We are just people. We are all trying to work through something. We are all hurting in one way or another.

Life is not easy. Excuses won't make it better. Life can be hard. Accept this and move on.

Setbacks as Opportunities

Yesterday I was lazy. After a full week and some fun with my family, I was ready to crash. At first, I was feeling pretty guilty about it. Was I missing out on something exciting? Should I be socializing? What I realized was that I needed a break. I needed to be away from people and get some good sleep. This morning, I woke up with energy but still a little apprehensive. I pushed myself to tackle my to-do list.

While I wasn't really in the mood for church, I knew it would be a good place for me. I actually ended up buying a book at the church bookstore and started working through it already. Between the sermon and the book, I decided that my attitude needs to change. We all find ourselves in a slump from time to time, but it is our choice to dig ourselves out of it. I've had a few personal setbacks, but I am choosing to use them as an opportunity to move forward. 

The minister this morning mentioned that "honesty characterizes healthy relationships." I feel like I am a pretty honest person; however, I don't know if I have been totally honest with myself. I have been ignoring the things that have been bothering me. In a sense, that is lying; that is being dishonest. 

Here is what I have concluded: I need to work on the relationships with myself. I need to be a better me. There are times when I am too hard on myself, and that is not always fair. I need to work on loving myself and taking better care of myself. What has 

The Right Teaching Track

Happy weekend!! Last week was pretty crazy. I'm a type-A person, so organization is generally my style; however, when it comes to teaching, I have learned to be flexible. There were a lot of different activities going on throughout the week, so I knew going into the week that I would just have to go with the flow.

As I was wrapping up fall conferences, I realized a few things.

I love what I do. My passion is teaching, and I genuinely care about each of my students. I listened to parents come in and share their stories and discuss issues with their kids. The other weekend, I talked to my mom about how much trust parents place onto their student's teachers. We are with their child more than they are; we may know more about their child than they do. Those parents trust our words. This is an amazing thing that I will probably never be able to wrap my head around.

I work with a lot of really great people. I feel comfortable talking to colleagues, parents, and students. I know that I am fully supported by administration and staff. There are times when I feel like the kids aren't learning and that I'm doing it all wrong. Just when I am losing self-confidence, someone is there with a great compliment to pick me up. All in all, I feel like I am doing what I need to do to as a teacher. There is so much to learn, but I know that I am on the right track.

Nothing Special

What a week. I've been battling a cold for nearly two weeks, so today I decided it was time to go to the doctor. I was kind of bummed because tonight was our last home football game, but I realize the importance of taking care of myself. It turned out to be a necessary visit. I'm looking forward to a relaxing weekend, so I can go back to school next week full force.

I've had way too much time to think over the past week (I spent two days home). It's hard not to get down and throw a pity party, but you get to the point where you're just ready to feel like yourself again. Anyway, my saving graces this week have been my sister, my students, and a few kind words from friends.

My sister knows how to make me laugh. Yesterday, she had me in tears as we chatted on the phone. There are so many inside jokes between the two of us. Aside from her silly side, she also has a way to comfort me. She is often able to put things into perspective. Sometimes you just need someone to wake you up, and that is one thing my sister does for me.

My students unknowingly uplifted me this week. When you are away from the classroom, they tend to appreciate you a little more. I could sense this when I returned after being gone. There are other times when I just think about something they said or did, and I am instantly smiling. I guess I'm lucky to have such a rewarding profession.

I have a lot of really great friends. For this, I am extremely blessed. This week, along with every other time, they reached out when I was feeling low. They encouraged and listened. I really couldn't ask for much more.

This post was really nothing special, but sometimes it just feels good to write a little. I hope my creative juices return when all of the drainage leaves my head ;-)

Break it Down

I'm a Pinterest addict. It's so cliche and slightly embarrassing to admit, but I'm honest by nature. I genuinely use it for inspiration, lesson plans, work out ideas, and even recipes (yea, I've actually been cooking... but that's for another post). This morning, I read this:

What initially caught my attention was the quotation by Albert Einstein. "The world as we have created, it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be created without changing our thinking." Wow. I wonder what it would be like to swim around in his brain. 

I've been thinking a lot about the processes we go through. Not just the daily routines, but our thought processes. I often have students ask the inevitable question, "Why do I need to know this?" I have adopted the saying, "It's about creating a learning process. You are learning how to think." I realize that many of them do not love literature and writing, and, to be frank, they won't need to know literary elements in their daily lives. What they do need to know is the process of how to think and make decisions. Literature and the writing process are great tools in attaining these skills. 

Number eight on this list says, "The impossible looking aerial view of a big project. Break it down into smaller parts, a bunch of little, achievable ones." This is exactly what we need to do each day. We all want to know the big picture. We all want to know why we "need to learn this." The fact is, that we don't know the big picture, and we never will. What we can see are the little, attainable goals that we set throughout the day. Those steps help take us to where we need to be; they are each important. We all need to learn how to break it down. 

My Exciting 28th Birthday

That's right, folks... I'm the big 2-8! I thought I would share with y'all how I celebrated this monumental milestone.

Got together with a huge group of friends and raged all day and night.  Just kiddin' ;-) My day looked a lot more like this:

-- I hopped out of bed at 4:32 and hit up the treadmill for a quick 3 miles... I sniffled my way to and from, careful not to leave any snot on the gym equipment.

-- Turned on my pot of coffee as I headed to the shower and began my normal morning routine. I threw on my striped maxi skirt and trusty jean jacket. I was still feeling droggy from my weekend cold, so my hair was neatly placed in a low pony tail.

-- I drove my normal route to school and tried my best not to get distracted by the numerous "pings" that notified me of birthday Facebook posts. I silently thought through my classes and the lessons that were to unfold throughout the day.

-- School started just like every other morning. Kids were coming in my room saying, "Do we need our books?" and "I'm tired." My answers: "What are we doing? (blank stare) We're still reading 'The Pit and the Pendulum,' so the answer is 'yes,'" and "Maybe you should go to bed earlier... Just a thought." For some reason, they would rather slam seven Mt. Dews throughout the day. Sick.

-- School was pretty typical. No one really knew it was my birthday, and the head-cold I have been dealing with made me feel a little crabby. The things that I normally find funny were just slightly annoying. Oh well... that's life :-)

-- After school, I jetted to the tanning bed, followed by a quick trip to the drugstore for some Airborne.

-- Birthday dinner? Oh, you know... just some meatballs and peas. Of course, there may be some dark chocolate in my freezer that might sneak into my belly. I'm painting my nails a deep navy blue and thinking about that bottle of wine in my fridge. The only reason I haven't popped 'er open yet is that I might dip into some cold meds later that happen to contain codeine. Something tells me I shouldn't mix the two of them.

-- I'm hoping to end this glorious day with a relaxing night in sweatpants and a good book. I know it's pretty thrilling... don't be too jealous :-)

Take Heart

We all have good days. It's easy to rejoice and be thankful when the current flows in our favor; however, our true character is built on those darker days. This weekend, I started to come down with something. To be honest, I think I have just worn myself out. Of course, this happens from time to time. It is just another way of showing us the importance of slowing down. Everyone knows that it's no fun being sick. Feelings of self-pity, loneliness, and frustration take over, even on a beautiful fall day like today. While I am not feeling 100%, I still want to focus on my blessings and share some words. 

It's easy to see people's Facebook profiles and Instagram photos full of travels and exciting life events and feel jealous. It's important to remember that life isn't always like that. In fact, many of the best times are the most simple times. 

The absolute truth. When you feel low, remember who is by your side. 

This week, remember to take heart. Life is good with God. 

Some Encouragement

I have spent the last two days at the Iowa Council for Teachers of English. Overall, I was impressed by the thoughtful ideas and motivating speakers that were provided. I realize that attending these types of conferences can be a gamble. It's also important to realize that your mindset going into the experience can make all the difference in the world. I was ready to learn and get a little break away from the noise (literally and figuratively) of classroom teaching.

Yesterday was full of round table discussions and talks of YA Literature. It's only a matter of time before I make my way to Half Price Books. There are so many awesome titles that both myself and my students really need to read. I realized that my passion for encouraging life-long readers is shared by my colleagues. Reading is such an important part of everyone's lives, so it is essential that we as teachers make reading enjoyable. There really is a book for everyone... or as the speaker, Penny Kittle, said, "Give them a home-run book." Isn't that just the coolest term!?

This morning, I met with a group about bridging the gap between high school to college. In other words, what do teachers need to be doing to make the transition easier? What do college professors expect my students to know when they step into a college writing course? It was a great discussion, and I feel like I heard a lot of insightful ideas. I was hungry for suggestions from seasoned teachers. As we were walking out, one of the college professors looked at me and said, "You need to relax." I laughed nervously and replied, "Can you tell I'm feeling unsure about my senior writing classes?" He went on to say (along with two other teachers) that it gets easier. He said that my first year is behind me, and I survived... that is what matters. He also mentioned that it does get easier; however, as soon as you have one thing figured out, something else changes. I realized as I got into my car that the important part is that I care. If it didn't bother me, then we would have a real problem.

Currently, I am staring at my lesson plans for next week and wanting to change just about all of them. It might be best if I take a step back... and maybe take a step towards the mall :-) Happy weekend!!

In Need of a Hug

Happy Monday, everyone... Or is it? Generally Mondays don't bother me. We've got to start somewhere, right? Well, this Monday in particular was not my favorite. Without going into details, I was disappointed and discouraged. Sometimes I feel like I'm playing the 'two steps forward, three steps back' game. I realize that every day cannot be off the charts, but today I just couldn't seem to catch a break. Yes, I'm throwing a pity party, and yes, you're invited.

I complained a little bit after school. I said a few choice words, but vowed to leave it at the door as soon as I stepped into my apartment. I poured myself a class of wine and made a nice dinner. After catching up on the latest E! News, I realized that I needed to vent just a little bit more... hence, me writing this blog post.

BUT.... I also realize that God doesn't give us more than we can handle. I know that the events that unfolded today were nothing more than a few annoying, unnecessary issues. If things went smoothly each day, I wouldn't appreciate the good ones. There are days when I look around my classroom as the kids work diligently on their assignments and think, "Wow... I'm living my dream." Yes, there are good days and there are bad days. All of them are important in one way or another. In fact, I just heard on the radio today that we stress so much about an hour, a day, a year, when in fact, it is all just a glimpse compared to the eternal life that we have been guaranteed.

We are also given the gift of a new day. I am excited to start my Tuesday off fresh. I just really think a big hug would make today much better... or maybe a glass bottle of wine?

Words

I am a words person. I hang on each word; I analyze each phrase. It's really a blessing and a curse. Maybe this is because I am an English teacher, but I believe it's due more to my writing. The construction of a poem, the diction in a short story. The words are delicately placed where the author intends them. They dance across the page suggesting meaning.

My love of words goes beyond my reading and writing. I reflect on conversations, analyzing the words that someone said to me. I remember text messages and emails. I make it a point to express my feelings and share my ideas with others; therefore, it's important to me when others do the same. I listen to their words.

Have you ever looked back and wish you hadn't said something? That's a silly question because we have all been there. We have all exchanged unkind words, said hurtful phrases, and participated in regretful conversations. We all have moments that we replay in our minds, remembering them like yesterday. While this is totally normal, it's also not helpful to live in those moments, those words.

I think about the power of words quite frequently, especially at school. People are so impressionable, and I want to make sure the words that I share are constructive and productive. There are times when my words need to be comforting. When I comment on a paper I've graded or when I talk to my mom on the phone, my words matter... and so do yours.

Be kind.

When I Thought I Knew Everything

I was reminded today how naive teenagers really can be. First off, I must explain that I truly believe kids are underestimated. They have a lot of really great thoughts and ideas that too often go unnoticed. Even though this is very true, they are still young and have a lot of learning to do.

In no way do I think I have it all figured out. In fact, the only thing certain is that I have a lot of figuring out to do. One thing is for sure - I am much smarter than when I was a teenager.

Sometimes I just sit back and listen to kids. I am often surprised by their bluntness and.... to be honest, lack of filter. I chuckle to myself when they talk about going to college and all the things they "will never do." I especially find humor when kids have specific ages for when life events are "supposed to happen." You know what I'm talking about... "I'll graduate by 22, get married at 24, and by the age of 27, I'll be having my second child." Good luck???

For those that it has worked out according to plan, more power to ya! But, I have a feeling that, more often than not, this is not the case. Part of me is a little jealous of the naive attitude of kids. Many of them have no idea that their plans could take a different direction. As much as I want to explain to them the uncertainties and unplanned aspects of life, I know better than to rob them of their innocence.

Thinking back to when I thought I knew everything can be entertaining; however, then I remember all of the awkward moments, confusion, and even heartache that comes along with the delicate age. Each part of life is filled with learning. No matter what age we are, no matter where we are at in life, we are always moving forward. We are always making memories and gaining knowledge to help us become better people. I am glad that I was reminded that every age is precious.

Unanswered Prayers

Last week was filled with restless nights of sleep. There were a lot of reasons that contributed to this, but it was some time on Wednesday night that I literally asked God out loud, "How many times do I have to pray about this?" In the middle of my frustration, I finally fell asleep. I am amazed how much better situations seem to feel in the morning; however, that question continued to linger. 

I felt a little guilty about overreacting and questioning God's path. I know that things will work out according to His plan, but sometimes I feel impatient and confused. On Thursday morning, I read an email I received from my sister. She expressed some of the same concerns with prayer. She mentioned that she was trying to do everything right, but things still didn't seem to be going her way. Can I get an amen? As much as I wanted to give her an answer, I was at a loss of words. I could only console her by saying that we must be patient and some things simply take time. 

On my way home tonight, I heard the song "Unanswered Prayers." I thought about the words and all of the times I had asked God for something, only to not get it. In one way or another, it worked out - many times even better than I could imagine. It brought me back to the notion, "God's plan is much greater than anything I could ever dream." 

I continue to wait patiently in many aspects of my life. I am human, so this can be tough; however, I know the importance of trusting God. I know His great love, and I believe there are great things ahead of me. 

Why I Love Iowa

While I was driving home yesterday, I realized I was tired of the radio. I flipped on an ESPN talk radio program and soaked in my drive. I was approaching my hometown, and as I met a Ford pickup, the driver flipped up his pointer finger. The infamous "farmer wave." I smiled and started thinking about all of the reasons why I love living in Iowa. Here are a few for you reading pleasure:

1. Farmer waves. As I said, there is just something about the fact that those farmers will wave at anyone. Why? Because in small town Iowa, you probably do know everyone. Boy do I love this. It really just makes you feel like you are home.

2. Jaywalking.... what's that? Enough said.

3. School pride. I really felt this last week when I was tailgating at the Hawkeye game. People show so much pride when it comes to "their team." Whether it is your high school football team or your college alma mater, there is something about wearing your team's colors proudly. It gives me goosebumps every time.

4. Fall harvest. The smells that begin as soon as summer fades into fall are crisp and refreshing. It's the time when you realize it has become sweatshirt weather. Seriously, this is the best time of year.

5. Corn on the cob. Yea, I went there. I realize this is very cliche, but seriously, have you ever had it? Get. In. My. Belly.

6. Getting lost in the landscape. Once you leave the city, it doesn't take much time before you are driving "in the middle of nowhere." There aren't people at every corner. You are simply able to enjoy your surroundings without the busyness of city streetlights and deadlines. There is something to be said about the slowness of small town Iowa.

7. Cowboy boots. Anyone can wear them anywhere. I'm the kind of person that only sports boots when they go with my outfit, but there are plenty of people that throw them on daily. While I will probably never do this, I love the fact that it is completely acceptable. Cowboy up!

8. Everyone is family. For the most part, people care. I don't know if this is something that can be found everywhere, but I surely feel it in Iowa. People are there to help out, and support systems are vast. It's a great feeling knowing that even when my biological family isn't around, there is someone nearby that cares.

Have a spectacular weekend!!

A Few Simple Words

I am a reflective person. Sometimes this is a curse, causing me to over-think and even worry; however, it also helps me to stop and soak up the goodness in life. Yesterday, I tailgated with a bunch of friends and cheered on the Hawks to a victory! Whoop, whoop!! Once again, I was reminded how small of a world it really is. I had a few conversations with old friends, new friends, and acquaintances. It never seizes to amaze me how many wonderful people are in my life. I am continually reminded that people are good.

I had a conversation with someone that was a part of "another life." I don't talk to really any of those people anymore, which is funny because I used to spend so much time with them. It's incredible how people grow and grow apart. We talked about life and some of our mutual friends. I was touched by the fact that this person really seemed to care. He was attentive and didn't make it awkward. Without knowing, he shared kind words with me.

Another friend was walking by our tailgate, and she stopped to visit. It was so good to see her. She asked about a few things and said, "You seem stressed." I was surprised that she picked up on this, mostly because I didn't realize it was so apparent. I shared with her, and she listened. I'm thankful for her; I really don't see her enough.

The tailgate I was at was full of families... Cyclone fans (barf). Time and time again they welcome me with open arms. They never forget to invite me, and I feel comfortable with all of them. Yesterday, one of my friends simply said, "Well, you're already a part of the family." I smiled because I knew it was true, and I smile now as I remember.

All in all, I have done a pretty good job of "taking a step back" this weekend. After nine hours of sleep, I am ready to tackle the day. Happy Sunday, folks!

Taking a Step Back

I am not a huge fan of complaining. Saying, "I'm tired" or "Is it Friday yet?" all week long just doesn't do it for me. I try to counteract these comments with something positive or even a smile, but sometimes I can't help but want to shout, "Amen, sista!!" Well, this week was one of those weeks.

I'm not going to go into the details. That is far from professional, and I also don't need to rehash it all. I have survived, and that is all that matters. On my way home, after shedding a few tears to my mom, I realized that it is time to take a step back. This weekend school and any other troubling thoughts need to hang out on the back burner. While it is easy for me to shove my school bag in my office so I don't review lesson plans and grade papers, it's harder to allow my mind to rest. If only there was an "off" switch for certain thoughts and worries that make their way into my brain. At any rate, I'm going to do my best to tailgate with friends, enjoy the weather, and spend some time alone. I am not even going ot think about school until sometime Sunday afternoon.

As I prepare for my "taking a step back weekend," I began thinking about how important this really is. It's the same reason why people take vacations or even go on weekend get-a-ways. We all need a little time away from work, school, and even certain people. We are not designed to have our minds and bodies going on high gear all the time. I then started thinking about what the Bible says. God gave us the Sabbath for this very reason. He created humans and knows full well what we are capable of. It's important that we remember to take time off from the busyness of life. We need time to focus on Him and relax.

I hope you find yourself taking advantage of the weekend and remembering the importance of the Sabbath.  

Just An Update

Week two at school was a success! To be completely honest, I have found myself overwhelmed with emotions lately. It's hard to put into words, but I am absolutely loving where I am in life. Even different aspects that often leave me feeling defeated are not bothering me. Sure, I have my moments, but for the most part, I am content.

This last week was kind of a whirlwind. Teaching is so complex for many reasons. As I spoke about a certain issue with one of my best friends, she mentioned, "If all you had to do was teach, it would be easy." Amen, sista!! The truth is, I am much more than just a teacher. I am there to act as a mentor. Life is not easy for a lot of kids. It's really not fair what so many of them have to deal with, and I take pride in being someone they can turn to for guidance. Each day, I am learning more and growing as a professional. I am becoming closer with my colleagues, and I am feeling more secure with myself. I am learning when to turn to others for help. I am more comfortable with my lessons and the content in my discipline. It's really a wonderful feeling.

Last night, I went to our football game. It was so fun and a great way to wrap up the week. We were playing our rival, and we brought home a victory and the traveling trophy :-) I sat with another teacher, and we chatted throughout the entire game. Some of my former students came by to say "hi." It was really great to lay my head on the pillow last night with a big smile on my face.

If you didn't already know, College Gameday is on and tailgating is taking place throughout the country. My Panthers are taking on ISU, and I am also cheering on the Hawkeyes today. Yay for long weekends!!

Notes to Myself

It's funny how you can "get lost" while on the internet. I found myself reading a blog today called Schmidt Talk. The post I was reading was titled "25 Things I Want Myself to Know at 25." It inspired me to do something quite similar. So, here are 27 things I want my 27 year old self to know:

1. You will always be taken care of.
2. Listen. People love to share about themselves. Be the person they want to come and talk with.
3. Spend more time with my family. Cherish the moments together.
4. Know when to ask for help. You can’t do it all on your own, and this is okay.
5. Be selfless, but don’t forget about yourself.
6. Always smile. People gravitate towards happiness.
7. Teach from the heart. Don’t let other people opinions of teaching cover up what you believe in as a teacher.
8. Changing priorities is okay. In fact, sometimes it’s necessary.
9. Manage money. Never spend more than you have.
10. Eat well and exercise daily. You only have one body, so take care of it.
11. Let the past be the past. There is no use stirring up old situations and emotions. While the past does shape you, it doesn’t have to define you.
12. Always believe in love. It’s the greatest gift to give and receive.
13. Stay in community with others. God created people to be around people. Alone time is necessary, but don’t stay there too long.
14. Stay in touch with friends.
15. Don’t just text. Call.
16. Don’t spend too much time on Facebook. Generally it just puts you in a bad mood, so why do that to yourself? Stop.
17. Be hungry to learn. Your brain will only stretch if you allow it to. Keep stretching.
18. Read and write. It’s not always going to be your favorite book or best piece of writing, but be persistent in growing as a reader and writer.
19. Pray for others. It works.
20. Go to church weekly. Being in community keeps you Christ-centered.
21. Build a healthier self-image. Learn to love it all.
22. Read the Bible.
23. It is okay to have a bad day. “It’s a bad day, not a bad life.”
24. Get enough sleep.
25. Make time for people. Stop multi-tasking and focus on what those people have to say.
26. You’re right where you need to be.
27. Surrender. God’s got it, so stop worrying and trust His great word. 

First Day of School

Creative title, huh? After all the thinking I've been doing the past few days, I thought it would be best to keep it simple :-)

As I drove to school this morning, my mind was going in about seventy different directions. I was thinking about each class period. Did I have everything printed and in order? I started thinking about the upcoming weekend. My mind wandered to other obligations and responsibilities. Luckily, I was so tired last night that sleep wasn't an issue, so I was all rested up. It never fails though, each morning I feel like a scatterbrain as soon as I enter school. I'm running around thinking, "Oh my gosh, what am I teaching first hour?!?" Generally, things work themselves out, and before I know it, the day is over.

I won't get into too much detail, but I left school tonight feeling excited for the upcoming year. The dynamics of my classes are going to be much different. It will take some used to, but it will be a good way to keep me on my toes. It was nice to see so many familiar faces in my classes. I am so much more comfortable than I was last year (obviously). Hopefully this excitement can follow me throughout the school year.

To be totally honest, I am extremely tired. It was a good first day of school, and there is no doubt in my mind it will be a good night's sleep tonight as well.

Who You Could Be...

Today I headed back to school for my first of two professional development days before the kids arrive on Thursday. The summer was short, but they always are. I am ready to go back and excited to be around my colleagues and students.

Before we moved into the various activities today, we got a little pep talk from our superintendent. It wasn't a drawn out speech. To be honest, if one wasn't paying attention, it would have been over before it even started. However, I am excited about the year and very thirsty to learn new things to improve my teaching and continue my positive attitude. He spoke about how impressionable kids are. He reminded us of what is was like to be a student. Didn't we all have a teacher that we looked up to? A couple of teachers popped into my head, as I know they did for those around me. The fact is, we all have teachers that have left impressions on our hearts. He encouraged us to think about that as we start our school year. "You could be that teacher." Those words resonated with me. I could be that teacher that a student remembers. I could be the one that leaves an impression on someone's heart. How many professions have the ability to reach out and touch the lives of so many? I consider myself very blessed and incredibly grateful to call myself a teacher.

As I sit here thinking of the events of the day, I can't help but continue to soak up these words. "You could be that teacher." How does one "be that teacher"? The way I see it, I can care about each student. It's not always easy, but it makes all the difference in the world. I will continue to be honest with my students. Each of them deserves respect, and I hope to give that to them. I will continue to believe in their abilities. Creating an environment that is safe and comfortable is not always easy, but it is how I plan to "be that teacher."

Wish me luck!! Whoop, whoop!!!

Build Those Muscles

Recently I have started a new weight lifting program. I have jumped on board with the "Strong is the New Skinny" movement. It really is quite empowering to build muscles. There are meal plans and other tips that comes along with the program. As the school year begins this week, I think it will much easier to follow. I have really missed having a routine.

While I am very interesting in fitness and exercise, physical muscles are not what I intend to blog about today. I was unable to make it to church yesterday morning, so I listened to a podcast of a sermon from my former church. It's kind of funny when I do that because I catch myself nodding along as I run along the streets. (I am totally that kid in class that nods so that the teacher knows someone gets it). At any rate, I was very touched by the message.

The minister spoke about the cycle that Christians often go through on their faith journeys. As humans, it's easy to want to lose faith when bad things happen. We start questioning God. How could He let this happen? How does He let good things happen to good people? These questions don't make us any less Christian. In fact, they only draw us closer to Him. That questioning is a part of cycle, and it is necessary to make us stronger. The minister called this cycle 'The Slinky Effect.' Pretty scientific, huh? Ha... that's what I love about it. This idea is real. 

"Faith is like a muscle. You have to use it in order for it to become stronger." If you stay in one spot, you will continue to be there. You need to stretch and exercise your faith just as you do your muscles. Pretty cool analogy, huh? I am still letting it all sink in this morning. It's funny though. I feel like it was exactly what I needed to hear yesterday. 

Loved Along The Way

It's no secret that I have a slightly unhealthy relationship with Eric Church. I won't even begin to describe it, but I just love him. I was listening to his "Carolina" Album as I worked on lesson plans, and I found myself listening intently to the lyrics of "Those I've Loved." Each verse spoke to me in a different way.

Not everyone we meet stays in our lives, and that is okay. I think back to my best friends when I was younger, through college, and even throughout the past years. It's funny how we see our lives going one way with those best friends, when somewhere along the way things change. People change. Our relationships change. Certain people stay. They are who I call my forever friends, and I am blessed to have them in my life. They always know what to say. If I have had a bad day, they hear it in my voice. When I'm confident and smiley, they are alongside rejoicing. It's truly amazing how some people just mesh so well together.

But for those that haven't remained close, I am learning to be thankful for the times they were my best friends. They were all placed in my life for a specific reason. I love all my best friends, even if I haven't talked to them in years. Even if there were hard feelings at the time. The fact is "I wouldn't be who I am today if not for those I've loved along the way."

Forever Friend

This morning I can't stop thinking about my sister, Sarah. Yesterday she wrapped up a summer as a camp counselor. It couldn't have been more perfect for her. She has a huge heart and a wonderful way of reaching out to kids. As the summer closes, I'm sure she has many bittersweet feelings as she starts to think about her sophomore year of college.

I have spoken to more than one person this week about conflicts with siblings. It's funny because I don't really remember having huge issues with my brother or my sister. Obviously, my brother and I had quite a few spats growing up because he is just two years older than me. As for my sister, who is eight years younger, I can't think of any major fights. I know we have yelled at each other, but nothing has caused us to hold grudges or go for long periods of time without speaking. We are pretty good about respecting each other and talking through any problems that may occur.

There are many things I love about my sister. She is creative and whitty. There is something that is very contagious about her. More than anything, when I am with her, it feels like home. She's my little Missy Boo, and I am forever grateful for our friendship.

There is a saying that talks about how you don't get to choose your family. While this is true, in many respects I would choose mine all over again. As we get older, it is even more fun to be together. Yes, we argue, but that is cancelled out by our laughter.

I pray for my sister as she tackles her next adventure. I know she'll be great. She's a fighter and much stronger than she would ever admit. I'm excited to see where this year takes my forever friend.

Words

I have a few positive thoughts to get your mind in gear and your heart smiling on this Thankful Thursday :-)

It's easy to forget that everyone's life has a great purpose. Each person has a talent that is just waiting to be used in a very specific way. We are all beautifully unique.

Not only is this written by my favorite author, but it holds great truth. Each day is a new start, and it is a choice. We are all strong enough to reach for change. We can all achieve great things to be proud of.

This is just an amazing concept to aim towards. Each day, consider how you are touching those around you. I want to be a role model. I want someone to not only believe in me, but look up to my decisions.

Make It Your Own

I just wrapped up another day at school, preparing for the upcoming year. It's funny how I didn't actually end up doing what I went there to do. With that said, I feel like I was productive and did get some things accomplished. The truth of the matter is, I will never being fully prepared and that's okay :-)

On my way home, I chatted with my best friend as she was on a long car ride back home. She is going through some major transitions, and I listened as she expressed her feelings. Like many things in life, situations are bittersweet. We have to let some things go in order to move forward. We have to break out of our comfort zones in order to fully understand and appreciate ourselves. It really got me thinking about how important it is to take risks. While some of these risks may not seem like that big of a deal, they often prepare us for what is to come.

Over the past year, I have learned to stand on my own two feet. This isn't to say that I don't wobble every now and then. I know when to ask for help and when to take it on myself. People go through different things at various points in their lives, and it is unfair to compare ourselves to others. While we can look to others for guidance, it is nearly impossible to fully understand a situation until we have lived it ourselves.

As my best friend and I spoke, I thought about where I am teaching. It was a decision I made on my own. Yes, I asked friends and family for their opinions, but ultimately, I decided on my own. Nobody really understands this part of my life but me. I get it, and that is what matters right now. I needed to have this time on my own, otherwise I may have regretted it. This past year has strengthen me and given me confidence. There were times of struggle, but they have allowed me to become the person I am today. I would encourage everyone to find time to make something his or her own. You'll never regret it.

Back in the Swing of It

It's been a crazy couple of days, and today it all caught up with me. I was all over the place yesterday, going from a hair appointment to a baseball game and then to sand volleyball. So many activities, but it felt great to be around people and keep busy. I forgot how much I love being busy. Downtime is not my thing. I didn't ever learn how to lounge (even in college). I'm getting off track here...

I'm not sure if it was because I was tired, but I started to get those bittersweet feelings. My school's baseball team lost yesterday in the semi-finals. The opposing team was tough and, in my opinion, played with a different style. At any rate, their season was excellent. Everyone is very proud of their accomplishments. It was almost like the summer was wrapped up at the conclusion of the game.

Today, I made my way to school to work on curriculum and to do some organizing in my classroom. To be honest, I didn't want to leave. After almost four hours, I told myself that enough was enough. I was exhausted from the night before (I stayed up too late reading... nerd alert), but as I headed home, I felt a rush of excitement. School is less than two weeks away, and there is so much to do. There are so many ideas floating around in my head, and while this should be overwhelming, I can't help but love every minute of it. I was so happy as I chatted with teachers, bopped around school, and worked through lesson plans. Pretty soon I'll be laying out my outfit for the first day of school... I kid, I kid.

As I finish up at a weekend with my family, I can't help but be excited to be back in the swing of it. I am a girl that loves her routine, and I can hardly wait to start a new school year!

Support or Judge

On my way home last night, I heard a quick devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries. Many of their devotionals are directed toward mothers, but I often find myself adapting them to my life, or even to my students' lives. 

I was all ears last night when the woman spoke about judging others. This is a constant struggle for me, as it is for everyone. The message asked if we were judging others when we should be supporting them. Yeah, ponder that one. We poke fun of someone who just doesn't get it as when we should be helping that person. We criticize people about how they do something when we could be learning for them. We should be supporting their way. 

Obviously, we are all sinners. We are going to catch ourselves staring at someone's outfit wondering, "Did she get dressed in the dark?" The way I see it, those unhealthy thoughts can do one of two things: stay in your mind or be shared with others. Impure thoughts are bound to pop up, but what we do with them is what really matters. Those "judgey" thoughts may become topic of conversation, leading to a very toxic environment. We have a choice to support, or even help someone, or we can judge. 

I love this idea. Everyone has a history. Everyone has a story to tell. I think I have one of those faces that screams, "Tell me all your problems!!" This is not all bad, but I have found myself in some awkward situations. Last night, a girl about my age starting telling me all about her past relationships. It was very messy, and I was honored that she was comfortable enough to share with me (I had just met her). On the way home, I thought about her. I thought about what defined her as a woman, as a mother, as a wife. It's not her past. That has only made her stronger. Her past shaped her to become who she is today. It wasn't my place to judge her. I was there to listen and support. 

To Be Teachable

As we get older, it's easy to think we have things figured out. If we've been working at the same job for a number of years, we may forget the importance of learning. Continuing to be teachable is a necessary tool that keeps us focused. More than anything, it helps renew our spirit.

My job is unique in the sense that I get a (mostly) fresh start each August. Each class has a different "feel" to it. The content and attitudes of the kids change each class period. There are so many factors that come into play when teaching. One thing is for sure, and that is the kids know what their job is: to learn. Isn't that why we go to school? They might not love that idea, but essentially they come with a pencil and paper to sit in class while the teacher instructs them. Obviously, each teacher and class is different, but the overall intent is the same. So, do I dare say that my students are teachable? For the most part, yes. 

Here's a better question: Am I teachable? As an adult, it's easy to think I'm right or am more knowledgeable than my students. This isn't always the case. Even when I talk to other teachers, am I open to new ideas? Am I ready to learn more in order to make myself better?

"Be willing to listen to others and be teachable. You're not right about everything…nobody is."

I hope this new school year brings about many teachable moments. Not just for my students, but for myself as well. More often than not, it's challenging, but the end result is so worth it.

Country Clubbin'

Yesterday, I was asked to play in a charity golf tournament with a couple of my girlfriends. As it turns out, someone had already paid and was unable to attend; therefore, we pretty much played for free at one of the nicest (and most difficult) courses in the area. My friends are members at the course, so they were familiar with the layout. I, on the other hand, was playing pretty blindly. While it wasn't the best I have ever played, it was a lot of fun to be doing an activity that I enjoy with a couple of great girls!

I grew up on the golf course. I remember riding alongside my dad and brother at the local country club that we have been members of for as long as I can remember. I have very found memories of summer days filled with both frustration and smiles. As I entered high school, I was a part of the golf team all four years. Some of my favorite sports memories are from my high school golf team. I remember course, weather conditions, and all the silliness that happened in the golf vans on the way home from a meet. I am very thankful to my dad for helping me appreciate the game of golf.

With all of that said, yesterday's experience at a country club was unlike any I have had. I love being from a small town, but I hate feeling like I haven't been exposed to "big city" things. If you are from a small town, you totally understand what I am saying. I get how country clubs work. Not only was I a member, but I worked at one for a few years; however, I literally got lost in the ladies locker room yesterday (embarrassing, but I just played it off like I knew what I was doing). In this particular country club, there was a separate section for men only. Yea, can you imagine what the feminists would say about that? Ha. Everything was very nice, and I was treated very well. Let's just say, I'm not used to ladies throwing around my month's salary for a caddy. If you have the money, I believe it's important to give to others in need. This charity in particular is called Amanda the Panda, which is a grief center for people in the area. I am very grateful for the gracious donations and the opportunity to have been a part of the day.

And one last thought. I laughed a little as I returned home because the local county fair is going on this weekend. So, I went from country clubbin' to figure 8 races, polo shirts to overalls, and chicken salad to funnel cake. Funny how things roll out!

Soak It All In

Last night my school's baseball team played in the first round of the state tournament. Not only was it a great victory, but one of the best games I've seen in a while. The kids were focused and playing with impressive composure. Honestly, they hardly seemed like teenagers. I was impressed by the way the played, along with the amount of community members, teachers, and students that filled up the stands. It was beyond cool.

Naturally, this morning I was checking some of the local news reports on the game. I read various interviews with the coach and players. As I read their words, I couldn't be more proud as I could hear their voices dance off the page. The team that we beat is a known baseball powerhouse that has been a presence in the state tournament for a number of years. It was our first win in the state tournament. All of which made this win incredibly sweet. It will definitely take some time to let this all sink in.

Without getting into details, there are more than a few reasons why this team is special. It's clear to see that they are more than just a baseball team; they are a family. The way they communicate and play together is inspiring. Honestly, I am still kind of soaking it all in myself. I am thankful to be a part of such a cool experience. Once again, I am right where I need to be. I'm looking forward to the next round of baseball this week!

Money, Money, Money

I have a serious love/hate relationship with money. Over the past year or so, I have had quite a few conversations about money with family and close friends. We all agree that it is frustrating but necessary. It's not fun to deal with, talk about, or even think about; however, it must be addressed. I know that I will be provided for, but that doesn't mean that I don't stress and worry about loans, debts, and other expenses. With that said, I have learned a lot about how to handle money and budgeting. I am no expert, but there are times (not many) that I feel like I am "getting it." 

You may be wondering where this is all coming from. Well, I had a few conversations about finances over the past few days, and then I ran across an MSNBC article called "7 Money Lessons for 20-Somethings." I read through the article and found it quite helpful and interesting. 

1. New cars are a luxury for a few. Not that I had a brand new car on my brain, but it is good to know that even if you had the money for a new car, it should probably be in your savings. You may think, "But I would look so good in a 2013 Ford F-150." Well, my friend, let's look to the future.

2. Living like a college student lasts beyond college. Thank you! I thought I was the only one eating eggs for every meal (kidding, Mom... sort of). But seriously, you don't graduate with a degree and have a stable income within the first few months. I am learning that this can take years. And, honestly, this is okay. Life doesn't fall together in one day.

3. Student loans can be managed. While it may be hard to believe, there are people and programs to help make these daunting loans bearable (well, sort of).

4. Consumer debt must be handled immediately. This wasn't exactly what I wanted to read, but it's true. Any credit card debt should be taken care of.... ugh.

5. An emergency fund is not old-fashioned. Having a space with extra funds in case of an unexpected expense is smart. I have a little bit of cash stashed away, and hopefully, I can have a larger fund as I become more financially stable. It's just a good feeling to have this accessible in necessary.

6. Saving for retirement is as necessary as ever. I'm young, and it's hard to think that far down the road, but I need to. Planning ahead will only pay off in the long run (no pun intended).

7. You can reward yourself without splurging. I have found this to be very true. My splurging isn't always spending. Sometimes it's spending time with a friend. Sometimes it's going somewhere I haven't been in a while. My splurging is doing something that makes me happy, within reason. 

I realize this topic isn't that fun for a Friday, but I wanted to get it written down. It's just an important part of life. I am glad that I am learning about finances, and I am thankful for the support of my family. Have a great day!

The Lone Teacher

My Saturday night was awesome! It wasn't anything over-the-top exciting, but I felt so happy. I met my parents, and we went to my school's baseball game. The boys have been doing amazing this year and have a 34-2 winning record. After last night's victory, they only need to win one more before going to state. I might be a little bias, but I would say we have a 97% chance of going all the way :-)

While it was way fun to watch the boys play well and win, it was also nice to see other teachers, parents, and students. It means a lot to me to get to know the kids outside of their schoolwork. I make a point to visit with them at the beginning of class. When doing this, they are much more "settled in" once we start the material. I also try my best to remember what they tell me. If someone has a job interview or an important test in another class, I want to check back with them to see how things are going. Their lives matter to me, and I was reminded of that last night. I can't really describe the feeling, but I just knew I was exactly where I needed to be. It was also really nice to have my parents their to share the night with. 

When I got home, I was wired. I was smiley and felt like being around people; however, that just wasn't in my cards for last night. At first, I felt a little lonely, but then I hit a wall. Ha. I was so tired because I had gotten up very early. I also haven't been sleeping well, but that's a totally other thing. 

After being around teachers and students, I felt like I was knocked back into school mode. This morning, my mind was back in gear brainstorming lesson plans and other ideas. I spent a few (cough) hours online today, searching and browsing around different teacher websites. I can't say I felt productive, but I started to think, "Am I the only teacher that does this... like all summer?" I literally haven't stopped thinking school since.... wait, I just never stopped. I guess I just need someone to tell me I'm normal. Tell me I'm not the lone teacher dreaming of school. This just tells y'all how much I love my job. 

I can't believe the weekend is over.