Here's to you, Mrs. L.

First week of student teaching is in the books, second week started with dog poop all over the floor, blocking my way out the door this morning. ARGH! dog! So I missed the first class and sat in the hallway listening to the teacher until the door was closed, then I sat listening to random students in the hallway. Two students actually discussed if they were in charge of "the empire" how would they change it - the girl said, "It clearly needs a race of cat people." YOU CAN'T MAKE THIS STUFF UP! Then, because my pal's morning started with his foot in a puddle of dog pee - i prayed for both of us, for better days, and for light hearts. And, because of the power of the internet and the magic of google - I searched for "clean funny memes" and then barraged him with what I found to be hilarious. It worked and by 9 am, the "waste" had lost the battle. WOOT

On Sunday, I found out that my very favorite teacher of all time had passed away in her sleep on Saturday night. She was the reason I wanted to teach. She believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. She told me once, "if I were ever going to vote for a woman for President, it'd be you." It's been more than 20 years since she said that, and it still has an impact on my daily life. I'm so grateful that my loving Savior saw to it that my teaching career could begin while she was still alive. I was only one week into my dream job when she made her exit from this world. I couldn't be more grateful for her influence in my life. She expected more out of me than I expected out of myself. She made me believe that I really could do anything I put my mind to. 

As a freshman in high school, I noticed that she had pictures of seniors who graduated and had moved on to bigger and better things. That year I knew I'd do whatever it took to make it under the glass top on her desk, MY senior pic had to be there someday. In the middle of my junior year, my family moved away and I was heartsick that my "senior pic under the glass top" dream was crushed. When my announcements arrived and my pictures were ready, I sent one to Mrs. Lawson, in the hopes that there'd still be room for me. I went to the FHS graduation and there was my favorite teacher, waiting to give me a hug. She took me down to her classroom and showed me that MY picture was under the glass. I made it. I wasn't even in her school anymore, but she kept me in that place of high honor. She wasn't just a teacher and annual staff advisor - she was a confidante, a mentor, a counselor,a guide, a friend. She meant the world to so many students and is the reason so many of us wanted to become teachers. I'm so grateful for influence in my life and the investment she made in me. She told our class ('94) that we were the game changes, the people who would revolutionize the world - and I'm going to do my best to prove her right. I love you lady. 

It's on my heart again that God cares about what we care about. No request is too big or small for His attention. He loves us and wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives. The God of the universe loves you, has a plan for you, and wants the best for you. He is your father, savior, friend, and counselor. He's the Prince of peace - let Him in every area of your life so He can give you peace, comfort, rest. The freedom that comes from complete surrender will change your entire life - and it's such a blessing. 

The pneumonia is almost gone but my brain is still wonky, please forgive me for a wonky-brained post. God blessand kee p you!!

-M

Love this

Teaching and Seeking

I love new beginnings. I love the hope of starting something new and the possibility of something life-altering and wonderful happening. I'm ready for a lovely surprise. 

This week, I start student teaching at the local community college. I'll be teaching with an amazing lady who has the most ridiculously high marks from former students on all of the teacher rating sites. She's an absolute treasure and I can't wait to work with her and the students. Together, we'll guide them through speech, communication behavior, and multicultural communication. I'm hoping that this experience leads to an amazing new career opportunity. I need something fresh and inspirational. I need a reason to be excited in the morning - to get ready and get moving every day. Yes, my life is worth living, but I'm seriously hoping that this experience gives me a boost I've been longing for.

In May, I will have been in the desert for 6  years. I've been encouraged to remind The Lord of His promises, to present my case before Him rather than plead my case. So I remind Him, "Lord, your word says that you will create streams in the desert, that you are doing a new thing - your word promises a hope and a future, it says that you promise to prosper me and not to harm me. Your word says that you put desires in my heart and that you alone will fulfill them." I pray, "Lord, your words says that it is not good for man to be alone...Your word says to be fruitful and multiply, how can I do that Lord if I don't have a husband?" Then, i have to wait for His perfect will and His perfect time. The clencher ;) 

So I have high hopes for 2014. I'd love to meet some amazing guy who wants a wonderful life with someone who is funny, smart, and completely dedicated to Christ. It would be glorious...the waiting however, not so much. At 37, almost 38, I'm ready to meet this mystery guy. Someone to share life with. Someone who will let me sit in the passenger seat. Someone who will take out the trash every now and again. Someone to send a quick text that says, "honey, would you pick up some milk and eggs on the way home?" Someone to bury my head in their manly chest when the day has been unbearably hard. Nearly 20 years of leading, making my own way, handling all that life throws out - and I'm ready for someone to partner up with. I've made room in my townhouse for someone. I've got an additional parking spot - he can show up any time now :) 

Anywho, if you're reading this - I pray  heaps of blessings on you in this year. I pray that you are surrounded by amazing people who will bless you with their loyal friendship and help carry your load. If you're single, can I encourage you to ask for help and accept it when you need it? Let someone know when you need a hug (I'm working on that myself)  - single doesn't have to mean alone :) 

All the best-

M

2014!

I love New Year's Day. I love new starts and promises of new beginnings. I'm going to try to blog more this year, to be more encouraging, to keep my resolutions. :) happy new year, friends!