I have never been good at adjusting to changes in my life. I prefer to be sitting in the driver's seat in full control, or at least I like to think I am. The problem is that life is not like that. As much as we desire control in reality we have very little if any. That does not mean that we don't have a responsibility to do the right things, to be cautious, and to strive to reach goals. We do have some control over our lives, just never full control. Life has too many facets for us to be able to navigate on our own.
I have been following the blog of a young girl who is attempting to be the youngest person to complete an unassisted solo circumnavigation of the world. Her name is Abby and she is 16 years old. Her journey began on January 23 of this year in California and she is now somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. She is the sole occupant of her sailboat and has not laid eyes on another human since her journey began. For almost three months she has been alone at sea. It is her intention to sail completely around the world without stepping foot on land. She is the sole person steering her craft but that does not mean that her course is the one she had planned. The wind and the waves determine much of what happens and her pace is not decided by her but by God. She has tried to prepare for every possible scenario but the possibilities are too numerous to imagine. There have already been many things that she has had to deal with in her short journey. Her autopilot has gone out and her backup autopilot had a hydraulic leak both of which she alone had to repair. She is battling the wind, waves, and temperatures. She is almost always wet and has sailed in temperatures in the lower 40's for much of the trip so far.
She chose the course she is taking because she fears pirates. She is hoping to avoid them by staying (for the most part) at least 100 miles from land for most of the trip. I think about the strength this young woman possesses often. I am amazed at her courage and wisdom. Most people will never mature in their lifetime to the point that this young woman has in her short 16 years on this earth. She inspires me, humbles me, and fills me with awe at the strength of the human spirit. So tonight, as most nights, I am thinking of Abby somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, alone and content. Steering her ship while all the time knowing she is not in full control of her course; constantly having to adjust her plans to those of nature.
I think Abby has many lessons to teach us if we will only be open to receive them. She has taught me that I should have a plan in mind but expect for things not to go the way I would like. During these times I should not loose hope but instead plot a new course that points me toward my destination. I need to fight like everything depends on me, but keep my faith in God knowing that He is in control. His plans are far above my plans, even when His plans are hard to accept. So tonight I am turning on my auto pilot and am going to rest easy knowing that my God is in full control. ; ) Sorry DSC I had to use that title since it so perfectly fit.
Showing posts with label Life of a student Mom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Life of a student Mom. Show all posts
Saturday, April 17, 2010
The Way I Feel Tonight, Everything Will Be Alright
I have never been good at adjusting to changes in my life. I prefer to be sitting in the driver's seat in full control, or at least I like to think I am. The problem is that life is not like that. As much as we desire control in reality we have very little if any. That does not mean that we don't have a responsibility to do the right things, to be cautious, and to strive to reach goals. We do have some control over our lives, just never full control. Life has too many facets for us to be able to navigate on our own.
I have been following the blog of a young girl who is attempting to be the youngest person to complete an unassisted solo circumnavigation of the world. Her name is Abby and she is 16 years old. Her journey began on January 23 of this year in California and she is now somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. She is the sole occupant of her sailboat and has not laid eyes on another human since her journey began. For almost three months she has been alone at sea. It is her intention to sail completely around the world without stepping foot on land. She is the sole person steering her craft but that does not mean that her course is the one she had planned. The wind and the waves determine much of what happens and her pace is not decided by her but by God. She has tried to prepare for every possible scenario but the possibilities are too numerous to imagine. There have already been many things that she has had to deal with in her short journey. Her autopilot has gone out and her backup autopilot had a hydraulic leak both of which she alone had to repair. She is battling the wind, waves, and temperatures. She is almost always wet and has sailed in temperatures in the lower 40's for much of the trip so far.
She chose the course she is taking because she fears pirates. She is hoping to avoid them by staying (for the most part) at least 100 miles from land for most of the trip. I think about the strength this young woman possesses often. I am amazed at her courage and wisdom. Most people will never mature in their lifetime to the point that this young woman has in her short 16 years on this earth. She inspires me, humbles me, and fills me with awe at the strength of the human spirit. So tonight, as most nights, I am thinking of Abby somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, alone and content. Steering her ship while all the time knowing she is not in full control of her course; constantly having to adjust her plans to those of nature.
I think Abby has many lessons to teach us if we will only be open to receive them. She has taught me that I should have a plan in mind but expect for things not to go the way I would like. During these times I should not loose hope but instead plot a new course that points me toward my destination. I need to fight like everything depends on me, but keep my faith in God knowing that He is in control. His plans are far above my plans, even when His plans are hard to accept. So tonight I am turning on my auto pilot and am going to rest easy knowing that my God is in full control. ; ) Sorry DSC I had to use that title since it so perfectly fit.
I have been following the blog of a young girl who is attempting to be the youngest person to complete an unassisted solo circumnavigation of the world. Her name is Abby and she is 16 years old. Her journey began on January 23 of this year in California and she is now somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. She is the sole occupant of her sailboat and has not laid eyes on another human since her journey began. For almost three months she has been alone at sea. It is her intention to sail completely around the world without stepping foot on land. She is the sole person steering her craft but that does not mean that her course is the one she had planned. The wind and the waves determine much of what happens and her pace is not decided by her but by God. She has tried to prepare for every possible scenario but the possibilities are too numerous to imagine. There have already been many things that she has had to deal with in her short journey. Her autopilot has gone out and her backup autopilot had a hydraulic leak both of which she alone had to repair. She is battling the wind, waves, and temperatures. She is almost always wet and has sailed in temperatures in the lower 40's for much of the trip so far.
She chose the course she is taking because she fears pirates. She is hoping to avoid them by staying (for the most part) at least 100 miles from land for most of the trip. I think about the strength this young woman possesses often. I am amazed at her courage and wisdom. Most people will never mature in their lifetime to the point that this young woman has in her short 16 years on this earth. She inspires me, humbles me, and fills me with awe at the strength of the human spirit. So tonight, as most nights, I am thinking of Abby somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, alone and content. Steering her ship while all the time knowing she is not in full control of her course; constantly having to adjust her plans to those of nature.
I think Abby has many lessons to teach us if we will only be open to receive them. She has taught me that I should have a plan in mind but expect for things not to go the way I would like. During these times I should not loose hope but instead plot a new course that points me toward my destination. I need to fight like everything depends on me, but keep my faith in God knowing that He is in control. His plans are far above my plans, even when His plans are hard to accept. So tonight I am turning on my auto pilot and am going to rest easy knowing that my God is in full control. ; ) Sorry DSC I had to use that title since it so perfectly fit.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Kids Say the Darndest Things
Anyone who has ever spent any time whatsoever with a small child knows that they can say the most precious things. Sometimes they use a word in the wrong context, mispronounce words, or just simply say whatever is on their mind. They have not learned that you shouldn't always say what you think, or that every question does not require an answer. These are some of the funny things my children or children I know have said in the past.
Several years ago G's preschool teacher asked, "What do you want to do?" She then named three things he had to choose from. G replied, "I don't want to do nothing." He had to sit in time out for that one.
G's walker was making noises and he told me, "Momma put some medicine on my walker."
One of his favorite things to say during his game show network phase was, "I can't tell you, ERNK." (The ERNK was his attempt at immitating a buzzer.)
Recently G said, "Ms. C is not my teacher, Mrs. H is my teacher. Ms. C is just my parapro."
G worked on letter identification several times trying to get faster each time. He only had to do it once each night but he kept trying. When he began to work on the lower case letters I just went over them with him without timing. He was so proud he said, "Daddy, I finished them all!" He didn't realize that I had stopped timing him. He was so determined to beat his time.
G has recently been passively defiant with one of his teachers. He has come home daily telling me that she is just not being nice to him. "I am nice to her, I don't know why she isn't nice to me." We were at the Chiropractor last Friday and he was talking to our Dr. about his school woes and he began to tell him about Ms. B and his objections to her determination to make him complete his work in a timely manner. He looked at Dr. P and said, "What is wrong with that woman, don't she realize she is talkin to a man?"
Recently we were studying spring weather and made a lion craft to tie in March's ability to come in like a lion and go out like a lamb. One of my precious babies said, "Look Mrs. Norton, I made my lion embarrassed. He has temples (dimples)."
Several years ago G's preschool teacher asked, "What do you want to do?" She then named three things he had to choose from. G replied, "I don't want to do nothing." He had to sit in time out for that one.
G's walker was making noises and he told me, "Momma put some medicine on my walker."
One of his favorite things to say during his game show network phase was, "I can't tell you, ERNK." (The ERNK was his attempt at immitating a buzzer.)
Recently G said, "Ms. C is not my teacher, Mrs. H is my teacher. Ms. C is just my parapro."
G worked on letter identification several times trying to get faster each time. He only had to do it once each night but he kept trying. When he began to work on the lower case letters I just went over them with him without timing. He was so proud he said, "Daddy, I finished them all!" He didn't realize that I had stopped timing him. He was so determined to beat his time.
G has recently been passively defiant with one of his teachers. He has come home daily telling me that she is just not being nice to him. "I am nice to her, I don't know why she isn't nice to me." We were at the Chiropractor last Friday and he was talking to our Dr. about his school woes and he began to tell him about Ms. B and his objections to her determination to make him complete his work in a timely manner. He looked at Dr. P and said, "What is wrong with that woman, don't she realize she is talkin to a man?"
Recently we were studying spring weather and made a lion craft to tie in March's ability to come in like a lion and go out like a lamb. One of my precious babies said, "Look Mrs. Norton, I made my lion embarrassed. He has temples (dimples)."
Kids Say the Darndest Things
Anyone who has ever spent any time whatsoever with a small child knows that they can say the most precious things. Sometimes they use a word in the wrong context, mispronounce words, or just simply say whatever is on their mind. They have not learned that you shouldn't always say what you think, or that every question does not require an answer. These are some of the funny things my children or children I know have said in the past.
Several years ago G's preschool teacher asked, "What do you want to do?" She then named three things he had to choose from. G replied, "I don't want to do nothing." He had to sit in time out for that one.
G's walker was making noises and he told me, "Momma put some medicine on my walker."
One of his favorite things to say during his game show network phase was, "I can't tell you, ERNK." (The ERNK was his attempt at immitating a buzzer.)
Recently G said, "Ms. C is not my teacher, Mrs. H is my teacher. Ms. C is just my parapro."
G worked on letter identification several times trying to get faster each time. He only had to do it once each night but he kept trying. When he began to work on the lower case letters I just went over them with him without timing. He was so proud he said, "Daddy, I finished them all!" He didn't realize that I had stopped timing him. He was so determined to beat his time.
G has recently been passively defiant with one of his teachers. He has come home daily telling me that she is just not being nice to him. "I am nice to her, I don't know why she isn't nice to me." We were at the Chiropractor last Friday and he was talking to our Dr. about his school woes and he began to tell him about Ms. B and his objections to her determination to make him complete his work in a timely manner. He looked at Dr. P and said, "What is wrong with that woman, don't she realize she is talkin to a man?"
Recently we were studying spring weather and made a lion craft to tie in March's ability to come in like a lion and go out like a lamb. One of my precious babies said, "Look Mrs. Norton, I made my lion embarrassed. He has temples (dimples)."
Several years ago G's preschool teacher asked, "What do you want to do?" She then named three things he had to choose from. G replied, "I don't want to do nothing." He had to sit in time out for that one.
G's walker was making noises and he told me, "Momma put some medicine on my walker."
One of his favorite things to say during his game show network phase was, "I can't tell you, ERNK." (The ERNK was his attempt at immitating a buzzer.)
Recently G said, "Ms. C is not my teacher, Mrs. H is my teacher. Ms. C is just my parapro."
G worked on letter identification several times trying to get faster each time. He only had to do it once each night but he kept trying. When he began to work on the lower case letters I just went over them with him without timing. He was so proud he said, "Daddy, I finished them all!" He didn't realize that I had stopped timing him. He was so determined to beat his time.
G has recently been passively defiant with one of his teachers. He has come home daily telling me that she is just not being nice to him. "I am nice to her, I don't know why she isn't nice to me." We were at the Chiropractor last Friday and he was talking to our Dr. about his school woes and he began to tell him about Ms. B and his objections to her determination to make him complete his work in a timely manner. He looked at Dr. P and said, "What is wrong with that woman, don't she realize she is talkin to a man?"
Recently we were studying spring weather and made a lion craft to tie in March's ability to come in like a lion and go out like a lamb. One of my precious babies said, "Look Mrs. Norton, I made my lion embarrassed. He has temples (dimples)."
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Student Teaching
I started my teaching internship last week. This is what I have been working toward for the past three years and now it is finally here. The only downside to my placement is that I miss the companionship of my classmates. In the past we have been place in the same grade level and have on many occasions worked together on big grade level projects for our cooperative teachers, sat on the playground supervising students together, and eaten lunch together often. There was always the occasional chance meeting at the copy machine or the laminator. Those are high traffic areas in elementary schools and you are bound to have to wait in line on most occasions. We also had classes togther on days we weren't in our field experience so we saw each other often.
This semester we do have a seminar class that meets on Monday nights. So we will at least see each other then. The problem with that is we are all tired from working all day and the class doesn't seem like the kind of class with built in opportunities to work together. I am thrilled to be finished with all my courses, am in the midst of the most wonderful place in the world everyday (kindergarten), and am only about three and a half months from putting on my cap and gown and recieving my long awaited college diploma. For those things I am overflowing with joy.
At the same time I find myself mourning the loss of the college experience. The times we spent sitting in the student center laughing at the antics of our class clown, our experiences with some very diverse and sometimes excentric professors, and encouraging and supporting each other through difficult days are some of the things I find myself missing. Life has taught me that eventually I will miss every season of my life. It may not always seem like it at the time but someday I will look back and remember with fondness the things that once caused me stress. Although it may not seem like it to most people who know me, I have mellowed with age. I have learned to stop and enjoy the time and place that God has placed me in. That is not to say that I am perfect by any means but I do find myself seeing the glass half full more than I see it half empty.
This semester we do have a seminar class that meets on Monday nights. So we will at least see each other then. The problem with that is we are all tired from working all day and the class doesn't seem like the kind of class with built in opportunities to work together. I am thrilled to be finished with all my courses, am in the midst of the most wonderful place in the world everyday (kindergarten), and am only about three and a half months from putting on my cap and gown and recieving my long awaited college diploma. For those things I am overflowing with joy.
At the same time I find myself mourning the loss of the college experience. The times we spent sitting in the student center laughing at the antics of our class clown, our experiences with some very diverse and sometimes excentric professors, and encouraging and supporting each other through difficult days are some of the things I find myself missing. Life has taught me that eventually I will miss every season of my life. It may not always seem like it at the time but someday I will look back and remember with fondness the things that once caused me stress. Although it may not seem like it to most people who know me, I have mellowed with age. I have learned to stop and enjoy the time and place that God has placed me in. That is not to say that I am perfect by any means but I do find myself seeing the glass half full more than I see it half empty.
Life moves pretty fast. You don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. ~FerrisBueller~
Student Teaching
I started my teaching internship last week. This is what I have been working toward for the past three years and now it is finally here. The only downside to my placement is that I miss the companionship of my classmates. In the past we have been place in the same grade level and have on many occasions worked together on big grade level projects for our cooperative teachers, sat on the playground supervising students together, and eaten lunch together often. There was always the occasional chance meeting at the copy machine or the laminator. Those are high traffic areas in elementary schools and you are bound to have to wait in line on most occasions. We also had classes togther on days we weren't in our field experience so we saw each other often.
This semester we do have a seminar class that meets on Monday nights. So we will at least see each other then. The problem with that is we are all tired from working all day and the class doesn't seem like the kind of class with built in opportunities to work together. I am thrilled to be finished with all my courses, am in the midst of the most wonderful place in the world everyday (kindergarten), and am only about three and a half months from putting on my cap and gown and recieving my long awaited college diploma. For those things I am overflowing with joy.
At the same time I find myself mourning the loss of the college experience. The times we spent sitting in the student center laughing at the antics of our class clown, our experiences with some very diverse and sometimes excentric professors, and encouraging and supporting each other through difficult days are some of the things I find myself missing. Life has taught me that eventually I will miss every season of my life. It may not always seem like it at the time but someday I will look back and remember with fondness the things that once caused me stress. Although it may not seem like it to most people who know me, I have mellowed with age. I have learned to stop and enjoy the time and place that God has placed me in. That is not to say that I am perfect by any means but I do find myself seeing the glass half full more than I see it half empty.
This semester we do have a seminar class that meets on Monday nights. So we will at least see each other then. The problem with that is we are all tired from working all day and the class doesn't seem like the kind of class with built in opportunities to work together. I am thrilled to be finished with all my courses, am in the midst of the most wonderful place in the world everyday (kindergarten), and am only about three and a half months from putting on my cap and gown and recieving my long awaited college diploma. For those things I am overflowing with joy.
At the same time I find myself mourning the loss of the college experience. The times we spent sitting in the student center laughing at the antics of our class clown, our experiences with some very diverse and sometimes excentric professors, and encouraging and supporting each other through difficult days are some of the things I find myself missing. Life has taught me that eventually I will miss every season of my life. It may not always seem like it at the time but someday I will look back and remember with fondness the things that once caused me stress. Although it may not seem like it to most people who know me, I have mellowed with age. I have learned to stop and enjoy the time and place that God has placed me in. That is not to say that I am perfect by any means but I do find myself seeing the glass half full more than I see it half empty.
Life moves pretty fast. You don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. ~FerrisBueller~
Friday, January 15, 2010
Individuality
Today my Kindergarten class created a portrait of Martin Luther King, Jr. as part of our week long study on his life. We used construction paper and told the students what shapes to cut out of each sheet of different colored construction paper. Several students whined and complained that they couldn't cut an oval or that they didn't know how to cut eyes. They wanted a pattern to use to cut out because they were afraid of their ability to do the task well. After much praise and encouragement they made it through the project. The results were wonderful. Each portrait was different, just as the students who created them are. There was one whose ears were place high on Rev. Kings head which made the creation resemble a puppy dog. On has a long thin face with tiny ears that looks a lot like the works of Picaso.
These creations remind me of the individuality of my students. They each have their strengths and weaknesses that are unique to them individually. They are all beautiful in different ways, none more so than the others, just differnet. I pray that my students will embrace their individuality and will feel the love that I have for them and will gain confidence and pride in their uniqueness. I pray that God will use me to make a difference in their lives and that something I say or do will empact them and that they will carry that memory with them throughout life.
These creations remind me of the individuality of my students. They each have their strengths and weaknesses that are unique to them individually. They are all beautiful in different ways, none more so than the others, just differnet. I pray that my students will embrace their individuality and will feel the love that I have for them and will gain confidence and pride in their uniqueness. I pray that God will use me to make a difference in their lives and that something I say or do will empact them and that they will carry that memory with them throughout life.
Individuality
Today my Kindergarten class created a portrait of Martin Luther King, Jr. as part of our week long study on his life. We used construction paper and told the students what shapes to cut out of each sheet of different colored construction paper. Several students whined and complained that they couldn't cut an oval or that they didn't know how to cut eyes. They wanted a pattern to use to cut out because they were afraid of their ability to do the task well. After much praise and encouragement they made it through the project. The results were wonderful. Each portrait was different, just as the students who created them are. There was one whose ears were place high on Rev. Kings head which made the creation resemble a puppy dog. On has a long thin face with tiny ears that looks a lot like the works of Picaso.
These creations remind me of the individuality of my students. They each have their strengths and weaknesses that are unique to them individually. They are all beautiful in different ways, none more so than the others, just differnet. I pray that my students will embrace their individuality and will feel the love that I have for them and will gain confidence and pride in their uniqueness. I pray that God will use me to make a difference in their lives and that something I say or do will empact them and that they will carry that memory with them throughout life.
These creations remind me of the individuality of my students. They each have their strengths and weaknesses that are unique to them individually. They are all beautiful in different ways, none more so than the others, just differnet. I pray that my students will embrace their individuality and will feel the love that I have for them and will gain confidence and pride in their uniqueness. I pray that God will use me to make a difference in their lives and that something I say or do will empact them and that they will carry that memory with them throughout life.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Always Improving
This semester I was given two big assignments. One was a math case study and the other was a reading case study. The math assignment required me to pre-test a student, find an error pattern in their work, develop strategies and teach them to the student. For the reading assignment I used several different assessment tools to find the student's reading level and any areas they may be having difficulty with. The assessments took up most of the time I had to spend with the students that I was assigned to work with so I have been apprehensive about how much improvement they have made.
I completed the math case study last week. The results were amazing. The student went from getting 2 out of 16 problems correct to getting 16 out of 16 problems correct. This was the easier assignment. It only required me to pinpoint one concept or procedural error the student had and help them improve in that area.
The reading assignment was the more difficult of the two. It took longer to assess the student for reading. Several different tests had to be administered and each test took a significant amount of time to complete. This only left me with about 2.5 hours (total) to "teach" the student and tutor him/her in reading. I was not sure how much improvement I would see, if any. I am almost completely finished with the assessments and I am shocked. The student has definitely made significant improvements. I, by no means take full credit for this improvement but do like to believe that I did contribute to this growth. The student is also recieving reading intervention daily from a reading teacher.
My amazement is from the great change such little effort and time on the part of me and the other teacher has provided to this child. It is a huge reminder that our actions do matter. We affect people good, or bad, whether we want to or not. No man is an island. It is my wish to do good in my lifetime and to leave the world better than I found it. Thank you God for placing me where you have at this time and in this place. Use me to touch those around me and make me ever mindful of the impact You are able to make in someone's life through me. Remind me constantly that You are always improving me and those around me by Your Grace.
I completed the math case study last week. The results were amazing. The student went from getting 2 out of 16 problems correct to getting 16 out of 16 problems correct. This was the easier assignment. It only required me to pinpoint one concept or procedural error the student had and help them improve in that area.
The reading assignment was the more difficult of the two. It took longer to assess the student for reading. Several different tests had to be administered and each test took a significant amount of time to complete. This only left me with about 2.5 hours (total) to "teach" the student and tutor him/her in reading. I was not sure how much improvement I would see, if any. I am almost completely finished with the assessments and I am shocked. The student has definitely made significant improvements. I, by no means take full credit for this improvement but do like to believe that I did contribute to this growth. The student is also recieving reading intervention daily from a reading teacher.
My amazement is from the great change such little effort and time on the part of me and the other teacher has provided to this child. It is a huge reminder that our actions do matter. We affect people good, or bad, whether we want to or not. No man is an island. It is my wish to do good in my lifetime and to leave the world better than I found it. Thank you God for placing me where you have at this time and in this place. Use me to touch those around me and make me ever mindful of the impact You are able to make in someone's life through me. Remind me constantly that You are always improving me and those around me by Your Grace.
Always Improving
This semester I was given two big assignments. One was a math case study and the other was a reading case study. The math assignment required me to pre-test a student, find an error pattern in their work, develop strategies and teach them to the student. For the reading assignment I used several different assessment tools to find the student's reading level and any areas they may be having difficulty with. The assessments took up most of the time I had to spend with the students that I was assigned to work with so I have been apprehensive about how much improvement they have made.
I completed the math case study last week. The results were amazing. The student went from getting 2 out of 16 problems correct to getting 16 out of 16 problems correct. This was the easier assignment. It only required me to pinpoint one concept or procedural error the student had and help them improve in that area.
The reading assignment was the more difficult of the two. It took longer to assess the student for reading. Several different tests had to be administered and each test took a significant amount of time to complete. This only left me with about 2.5 hours (total) to "teach" the student and tutor him/her in reading. I was not sure how much improvement I would see, if any. I am almost completely finished with the assessments and I am shocked. The student has definitely made significant improvements. I, by no means take full credit for this improvement but do like to believe that I did contribute to this growth. The student is also recieving reading intervention daily from a reading teacher.
My amazement is from the great change such little effort and time on the part of me and the other teacher has provided to this child. It is a huge reminder that our actions do matter. We affect people good, or bad, whether we want to or not. No man is an island. It is my wish to do good in my lifetime and to leave the world better than I found it. Thank you God for placing me where you have at this time and in this place. Use me to touch those around me and make me ever mindful of the impact You are able to make in someone's life through me. Remind me constantly that You are always improving me and those around me by Your Grace.
I completed the math case study last week. The results were amazing. The student went from getting 2 out of 16 problems correct to getting 16 out of 16 problems correct. This was the easier assignment. It only required me to pinpoint one concept or procedural error the student had and help them improve in that area.
The reading assignment was the more difficult of the two. It took longer to assess the student for reading. Several different tests had to be administered and each test took a significant amount of time to complete. This only left me with about 2.5 hours (total) to "teach" the student and tutor him/her in reading. I was not sure how much improvement I would see, if any. I am almost completely finished with the assessments and I am shocked. The student has definitely made significant improvements. I, by no means take full credit for this improvement but do like to believe that I did contribute to this growth. The student is also recieving reading intervention daily from a reading teacher.
My amazement is from the great change such little effort and time on the part of me and the other teacher has provided to this child. It is a huge reminder that our actions do matter. We affect people good, or bad, whether we want to or not. No man is an island. It is my wish to do good in my lifetime and to leave the world better than I found it. Thank you God for placing me where you have at this time and in this place. Use me to touch those around me and make me ever mindful of the impact You are able to make in someone's life through me. Remind me constantly that You are always improving me and those around me by Your Grace.
Monday, November 16, 2009
The Moon Made Me Do It??
Why is it when you determine to live closer to Christ that you always get on a slippery slope? This weekend I found myself spinning out of control. I am either loosing my mind, going through menopause, or possessed. Since I am a Christian I know that I am not possessed, although I think I've been carrying around a fallen angel for the past few days. I know that my family has expected to see my head spin around at any moment. In fact it acrually may have while no one was watching.
I would blame my behavior on the moon, but there hasn't been a full moon and there isn't going to be a full moon for a couple of weeks (December 2 to be exact). Oh, well I guess I have to take full responsibiltiy for my unacceptable behavior. I have been short tempered (even shorter tempered than usual). I appologize to my three precious men. I love each of you with all of my heart. Just hang in there and maybe the more civilized version of me will return by the end of the month and the semester.
I would blame my behavior on the moon, but there hasn't been a full moon and there isn't going to be a full moon for a couple of weeks (December 2 to be exact). Oh, well I guess I have to take full responsibiltiy for my unacceptable behavior. I have been short tempered (even shorter tempered than usual). I appologize to my three precious men. I love each of you with all of my heart. Just hang in there and maybe the more civilized version of me will return by the end of the month and the semester.
The Moon Made Me Do It??
Why is it when you determine to live closer to Christ that you always get on a slippery slope? This weekend I found myself spinning out of control. I am either loosing my mind, going through menopause, or possessed. Since I am a Christian I know that I am not possessed, although I think I've been carrying around a fallen angel for the past few days. I know that my family has expected to see my head spin around at any moment. In fact it acrually may have while no one was watching.
I would blame my behavior on the moon, but there hasn't been a full moon and there isn't going to be a full moon for a couple of weeks (December 2 to be exact). Oh, well I guess I have to take full responsibiltiy for my unacceptable behavior. I have been short tempered (even shorter tempered than usual). I appologize to my three precious men. I love each of you with all of my heart. Just hang in there and maybe the more civilized version of me will return by the end of the month and the semester.
I would blame my behavior on the moon, but there hasn't been a full moon and there isn't going to be a full moon for a couple of weeks (December 2 to be exact). Oh, well I guess I have to take full responsibiltiy for my unacceptable behavior. I have been short tempered (even shorter tempered than usual). I appologize to my three precious men. I love each of you with all of my heart. Just hang in there and maybe the more civilized version of me will return by the end of the month and the semester.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Acceptable Behavior
hyp·o·crite
Pronunciation: \ˈhi-pə-ˌkrit\Function: noun Etymology: Middle English ypocrite, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin hypocrita, from Greek hypokritēs actor, hypocrite, from hypokrinesthai Date: 13th century
1 : a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religionToday has been a tough day for me and tonight I feel like such a hypocrite. My attitude and actions
2 : a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings
have not aligned with the convictions or goals I have set for myself. A series of unimportant and insignificant events sent me into a tailspin this morning. I behaved foolishly. I cried over lost keys and glasses that I carelessly left behind when I headed out to face my day. I unloaded all my frustrations on the closest and safest person in my life when I should have turned to Jesus.
Why is it that we so soon forget the goodness that our lives are filled with when things don't go our way? Lord, help me to turn to You when I feel lost, defeated, and overwhelmed.
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. ~Psalm 19:14 (King James Version)~
Acceptable Behavior
hyp·o·crite
Pronunciation: \ˈhi-pə-ˌkrit\Function: noun Etymology: Middle English ypocrite, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin hypocrita, from Greek hypokritēs actor, hypocrite, from hypokrinesthai Date: 13th century
1 : a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religionToday has been a tough day for me and tonight I feel like such a hypocrite. My attitude and actions
2 : a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings
have not aligned with the convictions or goals I have set for myself. A series of unimportant and insignificant events sent me into a tailspin this morning. I behaved foolishly. I cried over lost keys and glasses that I carelessly left behind when I headed out to face my day. I unloaded all my frustrations on the closest and safest person in my life when I should have turned to Jesus.
Why is it that we so soon forget the goodness that our lives are filled with when things don't go our way? Lord, help me to turn to You when I feel lost, defeated, and overwhelmed.
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. ~Psalm 19:14 (King James Version)~
Friday, October 30, 2009
Not Me Monday
Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.
I have never been one to jokingly refer to a bad day as being Monday. This week, however, has been unusually full of little annoying problems and mishaps. So much so that I have wondered how many Mondays in a row I will experience. It all started last Saturday. So here is my not me Monday list for my not Monday Week.Monday # 1 (Saturday, October 24, 2009) I absolutely did not change the settings on my camera in such a way that it would not work. If I did that I would definitely be able to fix it myself without the help of a friend. So whatever David tells you don't believe that I did anything remotely like that.
Monday # 2 (Sunday, October 25, 2009) Ignore my husband if he tells you that I was the one who totally messed up our home computer network. I would never even consider making adjustments to such an integral tool in my education without knowing what I was doing. My computer time is much too valuable for me to risk going without the internet and my printer for four entire days, not to speak of the amount of money we would have to pay to have an expert come out and fix all the problems that would create. I would estimate that would cost about $112.00. I would never risk all those problems not to mention that I would not be able to scan my son's senior page photos which were due last week.
Monday # 3 (Monday, October 26, 2009) If anyone tells you that I received two phone calls during the middle of my first class I would be very hesitant to believe them. College students should never check their phones during class and I certainly would not. I also would not leave in the middle of class so don't listen if anyone tries to tell you that I did. I would never skip my writing class and be happy about it; especially if it meant my son had to be picked up from school because he was running a temperature.
Monday # 4 (Tuesday, October 27, 2009) If anyone tells you they saw me at the Breast Center on this day I most certainly was not. I did not submit myself to a more in depth mammogram than necessary. A typical mammogram is uncomfortable enough, and it could not be true that I had to be tortured to an entirely new level. My husband did not have to stay home with our sick son and wait for the computer repair person to come and fix the network that I did not destroy and he most certainly did not have to pay over 100 dollars to have the network fixed.
Monday # 5 (Wednesday. October 28, 2009) I most certainly did not go to work in my pajamas, nor show up for class dressed in the same Snoopy p j s, and if anyone tells you they saw me going into Infinity Children's Services dressed that way they should be ashamed to repeat such a thing.
Monday # 6 (Thursday, October 29, 2009) The doctor could not possibly tell us that our son should stay home from school today. I mean come on, my husband needs to work and I need to teach a lesson today. We would not have time for this kind of inconvenience.
Monday # 7 (Friday, October 30, 2009) Please don't tell me that I ended up sleeping on a twin size Ikea bed with a mattress that feels like you are laying on a towel on top of a wooden platform alongside one sick little boy who coughed most of the night. If he tells you I stole the covers at one point in the night he must have been dreaming because I know I had to be awake the entire time. Surely I did not spend the day at home when I so needed to go to Practicum today. If I did stay at home I would have finished all my schoolwork since my network is now working. . . or was working. This could not be happening. My internet could not possibly be going in and out. I could not hear the heating unit making a weird sound. The lights cannot be dim. I must be in a terrible dream. My life could never be filled with such crazy things like this. Surely I am imagining the Georgia Power Crew setting up a transformer outside my bedroom window. I know I did not hear them say they will be back in a couple of weeks to dig up my yard, the street, and my neighbor's yard before my power will be permanently repaired.
I know this all has to be happening to someone else. I just don't have time for all this confusion. I know, I know, I know that my Savior loves me. I know this because in the midst of all these things I have peace. It is unexplainable, amazing, sweet peace. Now I am not saying that I have not had to go to bed a couple of times this week to cope. I did that several times but after a short rest to let me catch my breath and refocus I exited the bedroom with a calmness that does not come from my flesh. Thank you, Lord for your continual transformation. I praise you for each and every problem that I have experienced this week. You have blessed me abundantly this week so starting tomorrow if you need to, you can share some of my blessings with someone else. I promise I won't mind and please don't let tomorrow be Monday again.
Not Me Monday
Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.
I have never been one to jokingly refer to a bad day as being Monday. This week, however, has been unusually full of little annoying problems and mishaps. So much so that I have wondered how many Mondays in a row I will experience. It all started last Saturday. So here is my not me Monday list for my not Monday Week.Monday # 1 (Saturday, October 24, 2009) I absolutely did not change the settings on my camera in such a way that it would not work. If I did that I would definitely be able to fix it myself without the help of a friend. So whatever David tells you don't believe that I did anything remotely like that.
Monday # 2 (Sunday, October 25, 2009) Ignore my husband if he tells you that I was the one who totally messed up our home computer network. I would never even consider making adjustments to such an integral tool in my education without knowing what I was doing. My computer time is much too valuable for me to risk going without the internet and my printer for four entire days, not to speak of the amount of money we would have to pay to have an expert come out and fix all the problems that would create. I would estimate that would cost about $112.00. I would never risk all those problems not to mention that I would not be able to scan my son's senior page photos which were due last week.
Monday # 3 (Monday, October 26, 2009) If anyone tells you that I received two phone calls during the middle of my first class I would be very hesitant to believe them. College students should never check their phones during class and I certainly would not. I also would not leave in the middle of class so don't listen if anyone tries to tell you that I did. I would never skip my writing class and be happy about it; especially if it meant my son had to be picked up from school because he was running a temperature.
Monday # 4 (Tuesday, October 27, 2009) If anyone tells you they saw me at the Breast Center on this day I most certainly was not. I did not submit myself to a more in depth mammogram than necessary. A typical mammogram is uncomfortable enough, and it could not be true that I had to be tortured to an entirely new level. My husband did not have to stay home with our sick son and wait for the computer repair person to come and fix the network that I did not destroy and he most certainly did not have to pay over 100 dollars to have the network fixed.
Monday # 5 (Wednesday. October 28, 2009) I most certainly did not go to work in my pajamas, nor show up for class dressed in the same Snoopy p j s, and if anyone tells you they saw me going into Infinity Children's Services dressed that way they should be ashamed to repeat such a thing.
Monday # 6 (Thursday, October 29, 2009) The doctor could not possibly tell us that our son should stay home from school today. I mean come on, my husband needs to work and I need to teach a lesson today. We would not have time for this kind of inconvenience.
Monday # 7 (Friday, October 30, 2009) Please don't tell me that I ended up sleeping on a twin size Ikea bed with a mattress that feels like you are laying on a towel on top of a wooden platform alongside one sick little boy who coughed most of the night. If he tells you I stole the covers at one point in the night he must have been dreaming because I know I had to be awake the entire time. Surely I did not spend the day at home when I so needed to go to Practicum today. If I did stay at home I would have finished all my schoolwork since my network is now working. . . or was working. This could not be happening. My internet could not possibly be going in and out. I could not hear the heating unit making a weird sound. The lights cannot be dim. I must be in a terrible dream. My life could never be filled with such crazy things like this. Surely I am imagining the Georgia Power Crew setting up a transformer outside my bedroom window. I know I did not hear them say they will be back in a couple of weeks to dig up my yard, the street, and my neighbor's yard before my power will be permanently repaired.
I know this all has to be happening to someone else. I just don't have time for all this confusion. I know, I know, I know that my Savior loves me. I know this because in the midst of all these things I have peace. It is unexplainable, amazing, sweet peace. Now I am not saying that I have not had to go to bed a couple of times this week to cope. I did that several times but after a short rest to let me catch my breath and refocus I exited the bedroom with a calmness that does not come from my flesh. Thank you, Lord for your continual transformation. I praise you for each and every problem that I have experienced this week. You have blessed me abundantly this week so starting tomorrow if you need to, you can share some of my blessings with someone else. I promise I won't mind and please don't let tomorrow be Monday again.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Finality
Today I took the last of my finals for this semester. There are no words to describe the feeling that I experienced when I turned in my last test and posted my very last reflection for at least 4-6 months. I have not had a break from school for two years since I took summer classes last year. Thank goodness that I only need to take one summer class this year and it is thankfully online. I feel like a heavy load has been lifted from me.
When I "reflect" on the meaning of final I am almost saddened. Taking those tests only mark the end of another chapter in my life. I have really enjoyed my time in school. It is so exciting that I will graduate next year (it only took me 26 years), but at the same time it is just the passing of another thing that I will never get back. Life is constantly changing and you never know what is coming next. I have learned through some tragic events in my life that things aren't always as bad as you think so enjoy the place that you are right now and don't worry about tomorrow.
I have arrived at a point in my life where I try to be content wherever I happen to be and I am successful in that most of the time. Who would have ever dreamed that I would grow to this point. A friend once told me that Jesus just wants me to stand with Him wherever He puts me. My reply was, "I do want to stand with Him, I just want to stomp while I stand here." Boy have I come a long way from there. I am not saying that I have arrived at spiritual maturity. There is nothing good about me that I had anything to do with. It is all God and His wonderful GRACE. I am so undeserving of anything He gives me but He loves me and showers me with blessings that most of the time I fail to acknowledge. Tonight as I write this I am so thankful for the things God has brought me through and for the many blessings He has so graciously given me. I am so blessed to have been the wife of the most wonderful man in the world for almost 25 years and the mother of the two best boys God ever created.
When I "reflect" on the meaning of final I am almost saddened. Taking those tests only mark the end of another chapter in my life. I have really enjoyed my time in school. It is so exciting that I will graduate next year (it only took me 26 years), but at the same time it is just the passing of another thing that I will never get back. Life is constantly changing and you never know what is coming next. I have learned through some tragic events in my life that things aren't always as bad as you think so enjoy the place that you are right now and don't worry about tomorrow.
I have arrived at a point in my life where I try to be content wherever I happen to be and I am successful in that most of the time. Who would have ever dreamed that I would grow to this point. A friend once told me that Jesus just wants me to stand with Him wherever He puts me. My reply was, "I do want to stand with Him, I just want to stomp while I stand here." Boy have I come a long way from there. I am not saying that I have arrived at spiritual maturity. There is nothing good about me that I had anything to do with. It is all God and His wonderful GRACE. I am so undeserving of anything He gives me but He loves me and showers me with blessings that most of the time I fail to acknowledge. Tonight as I write this I am so thankful for the things God has brought me through and for the many blessings He has so graciously given me. I am so blessed to have been the wife of the most wonderful man in the world for almost 25 years and the mother of the two best boys God ever created.
Finality
Today I took the last of my finals for this semester. There are no words to describe the feeling that I experienced when I turned in my last test and posted my very last reflection for at least 4-6 months. I have not had a break from school for two years since I took summer classes last year. Thank goodness that I only need to take one summer class this year and it is thankfully online. I feel like a heavy load has been lifted from me.
When I "reflect" on the meaning of final I am almost saddened. Taking those tests only mark the end of another chapter in my life. I have really enjoyed my time in school. It is so exciting that I will graduate next year (it only took me 26 years), but at the same time it is just the passing of another thing that I will never get back. Life is constantly changing and you never know what is coming next. I have learned through some tragic events in my life that things aren't always as bad as you think so enjoy the place that you are right now and don't worry about tomorrow.
I have arrived at a point in my life where I try to be content wherever I happen to be and I am successful in that most of the time. Who would have ever dreamed that I would grow to this point. A friend once told me that Jesus just wants me to stand with Him wherever He puts me. My reply was, "I do want to stand with Him, I just want to stomp while I stand here." Boy have I come a long way from there. I am not saying that I have arrived at spiritual maturity. There is nothing good about me that I had anything to do with. It is all God and His wonderful GRACE. I am so undeserving of anything He gives me but He loves me and showers me with blessings that most of the time I fail to acknowledge. Tonight as I write this I am so thankful for the things God has brought me through and for the many blessings He has so graciously given me. I am so blessed to have been the wife of the most wonderful man in the world for almost 25 years and the mother of the two best boys God ever created.
When I "reflect" on the meaning of final I am almost saddened. Taking those tests only mark the end of another chapter in my life. I have really enjoyed my time in school. It is so exciting that I will graduate next year (it only took me 26 years), but at the same time it is just the passing of another thing that I will never get back. Life is constantly changing and you never know what is coming next. I have learned through some tragic events in my life that things aren't always as bad as you think so enjoy the place that you are right now and don't worry about tomorrow.
I have arrived at a point in my life where I try to be content wherever I happen to be and I am successful in that most of the time. Who would have ever dreamed that I would grow to this point. A friend once told me that Jesus just wants me to stand with Him wherever He puts me. My reply was, "I do want to stand with Him, I just want to stomp while I stand here." Boy have I come a long way from there. I am not saying that I have arrived at spiritual maturity. There is nothing good about me that I had anything to do with. It is all God and His wonderful GRACE. I am so undeserving of anything He gives me but He loves me and showers me with blessings that most of the time I fail to acknowledge. Tonight as I write this I am so thankful for the things God has brought me through and for the many blessings He has so graciously given me. I am so blessed to have been the wife of the most wonderful man in the world for almost 25 years and the mother of the two best boys God ever created.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Overload
This has been one of the most stressful weeks of my life. It all started last Thursday morning. I had a paper due that morning on my philosophy of teaching reading. I was already overwhelmed by all the assignments that were due all in the same week. I stayed up late on Wednesday night to finish the paper and just couldn't stay up until it was done. I woke up early on Thursday to finish the paper and get it printed before heading off to school. As I was typing my last few words I asked my teenage son T to proofread it for me. He turned and looked at me in a what I perceived in my altered mental state to infer, "are you stupid?" With that one look I burst into tears. It was the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back. I don't usually cry that easily but on that morning the tears came quickly and refused to stop.
I kept trying to compose myself as I drove G to school, but just could not keep it together. I did manage to pull it together long enough to get G to his classroom and find my way back out of the school before the floodgates opened once more. I continued to cry as I made the short drive to my school. When I arrived at school, I parked in the back near the library where my class meets. I decided to sit in the car and pull myself together before going inside. While sitting in my car I noticed the cutest little chipmunk playing in the grass in front of my car. He was so cute with his little tail sticking straight into the air as he repeatedly hopped back and forth across the grass. Now I don't know if God sent that little chipmunk specifically to cheer me u
p or not; but nevertheless I felt as if it was dancing around cheering me up. I never cease to be amazed by the little things of nature. You know how it feels to go to the nicest, most well planned event where not one detail is missed? That is how I feel when I look at a blade of grass, a creepy crawly bug, or a playful chipmunk. God didn't leave out one detail. He is an amazing creator.
I kept trying to compose myself as I drove G to school, but just could not keep it together. I did manage to pull it together long enough to get G to his classroom and find my way back out of the school before the floodgates opened once more. I continued to cry as I made the short drive to my school. When I arrived at school, I parked in the back near the library where my class meets. I decided to sit in the car and pull myself together before going inside. While sitting in my car I noticed the cutest little chipmunk playing in the grass in front of my car. He was so cute with his little tail sticking straight into the air as he repeatedly hopped back and forth across the grass. Now I don't know if God sent that little chipmunk specifically to cheer me u
p or not; but nevertheless I felt as if it was dancing around cheering me up. I never cease to be amazed by the little things of nature. You know how it feels to go to the nicest, most well planned event where not one detail is missed? That is how I feel when I look at a blade of grass, a creepy crawly bug, or a playful chipmunk. God didn't leave out one detail. He is an amazing creator.
Overload
This has been one of the most stressful weeks of my life. It all started last Thursday morning. I had a paper due that morning on my philosophy of teaching reading. I was already overwhelmed by all the assignments that were due all in the same week. I stayed up late on Wednesday night to finish the paper and just couldn't stay up until it was done. I woke up early on Thursday to finish the paper and get it printed before heading off to school. As I was typing my last few words I asked my teenage son T to proofread it for me. He turned and looked at me in a what I perceived in my altered mental state to infer, "are you stupid?" With that one look I burst into tears. It was the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back. I don't usually cry that easily but on that morning the tears came quickly and refused to stop.
I kept trying to compose myself as I drove G to school, but just could not keep it together. I did manage to pull it together long enough to get G to his classroom and find my way back out of the school before the floodgates opened once more. I continued to cry as I made the short drive to my school. When I arrived at school, I parked in the back near the library where my class meets. I decided to sit in the car and pull myself together before going inside. While sitting in my car I noticed the cutest little chipmunk playing in the grass in front of my car. He was so cute with his little tail sticking straight into the air as he repeatedly hopped back and forth across the grass. Now I don't know if God sent that little chipmunk specifically to cheer me up or not; but nevertheless I felt as if it was dancing around cheering me up. I never cease to be amazed by the little things of nature. You know how it feels to go to the nicest, most well planned event where not one detail is missed? That is how I feel when I look at a blade of grass, a creepy crawly bug, or a playful chipmunk. God didn't leave out one detail. He is an amazing creator.
I kept trying to compose myself as I drove G to school, but just could not keep it together. I did manage to pull it together long enough to get G to his classroom and find my way back out of the school before the floodgates opened once more. I continued to cry as I made the short drive to my school. When I arrived at school, I parked in the back near the library where my class meets. I decided to sit in the car and pull myself together before going inside. While sitting in my car I noticed the cutest little chipmunk playing in the grass in front of my car. He was so cute with his little tail sticking straight into the air as he repeatedly hopped back and forth across the grass. Now I don't know if God sent that little chipmunk specifically to cheer me u
p or not; but nevertheless I felt as if it was dancing around cheering me up. I never cease to be amazed by the little things of nature. You know how it feels to go to the nicest, most well planned event where not one detail is missed? That is how I feel when I look at a blade of grass, a creepy crawly bug, or a playful chipmunk. God didn't leave out one detail. He is an amazing creator.
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