Dear Santa

For the hallway decor, the third grade teachers have decided to put up "Dear Santa" letters from our kids. Well, most of my kids are like kids everywhere...I want an IPod, computer, cell phone, PS4...what there is a 4th one?!?! Anyways, kids will be kids. There was even one of my little rascals that wrote in his letter, "I will send you a present if you promise to get me everything on my list." That cracked me up!!

Today I also got my first Christmas present from one of my kids. She had a box all wrapped up and inside was an old stuffed animal and old blanket. Also, there was a bottle of shampoo from a hotel. Precious. I LOVE that she wanted to give me a present so bad that she searched her things. These are the moments that I absolutely live for.

One of my trouble making kids decided yesterday that he didn't want AnYtHiNg for Christmas and told me over and over. Today he decided that he would write something. So pretty soon he handed me a folded up piece of paper that said To: Santa and had From: his name. When I opened it up, it read, "Dear Santa, For Christmas I want to see my dad." Yeah...what do you say to that? Oh these little precious ones. I feel so sad that they have to deal with SO much at such a young little age.

Please pray for my kiddos. Tomorrow is our Christmas party. I am going to be reading about the meaning of the candy cane and talking about the true meaning of Christmas.

Thanks! :) Well, one week from now I will be HOME!!! YAY!!! I am really excited to spend some extended time with my precious family....including Lexie Lou and my little Dylan. :)

More than Students

Is it Christmas break yet?!?! haha!! This weekend was SO much fun! My roommate and I had an ugly Christmas sweater party at our house with some of our new friends from church. Yay for people my age!!! So, the previous week was spent baking and preparing for our party. It was so refreshing to laugh till we cried and to be in the presence of Christian friends once again. God is good to bring these people into my life...He knew I needed this!


For Laura's birthday, we went to a Japanese Steakhouse...yum!!!

Ugly Christmas sweater party!

So today I went into to school and things were the same...so hard and frustrating. To be honest, there have been days when I sit and think that I cannot be a teacher and that I must be crazy. However, I am always quickly reminded why I am here...it is so much more than a job. Each day with my kids seems to bring more ache to my heart as I hear more and more of their personal life beyond my classroom.

On Friday, my kids each got a shoebox from a Christian organization. I heard from other teachers that they were lame and just had some random hygiene things in them. Well, you would have thought that they were boxes of gold in my classroom. Each box had a Bible, some type of book, hat, scarf, gloves, toys, socks, and a toothbrush. They were modeling their new winter attire for me and prancing around the room at the end of the day. Side note....earlier that morning I had my kids sit down on the new reading beach blanket as I read them a story. I told them that they needed to take their shoes off in order to keep the blanket from getting really dirty each day. All of the kids listened and soon I heard, "Eww..." followed by "shut up and leave her alone." As I looked over, one of my little girls had white socks that appeared black with dirt. I quickly changed the subject and started reading. As I read, I noticed that she tried to pull her pants down some to cover her socks. This girl usually wears the same sweater each day. Part one of heart breaking!...Back to the shoe boxes. Well, later on, the kids again went on the blanket. While kids were taking their shoes off, I noticed this little girl switching out her socks for her new pair. Wow. Again my heart broke. What may seem like a stupid hygiene box to some is a treasure to others.

Today I found out that an old family friend's grand-baby died...only 2 years old. His mother wrote in a letter that through all of the pain of the loss and agony, she is so thankful that God chose her to be this little boy's mom...that she was the blessed one. Overwhelmed with this, I started thinking about my kids. I am so broken for these little lives. They are so much more than students. They are God's beloved. How his heart must break when they go home to unloving, abusive, and dysfunctional families. But how blessed am I that God entrusted me to get to spend the majority of the day just loving them.

God is continuing to remind me why I am here and to open my eyes to His hurting children. Today in my devotions I read about how God's mark of approval on our lives is the peace that He gives us. We know when we have surrendered and followed His will when we receive this peace. I am thankful for this peace in West Virginia. If that is not enough, I got a call yesterday from another school in Akron that I interviewed for. It was during the same time as my current job's interview. I soon found out that I was hired here and never did hear from the other school...until yesterday. They said that they lost a teacher and would love to welcome me to their team. Honestly, my first thought was HOME!!! Boo-ya!!! haha! Then I instantly thought of my kids and that there is no way that I would leave them. And that peace in the midst of frustration and challenge came again. My next thought was how awesome God was in ordaining my every move. That was one less obstacle to get me down here since they didn't offer me the job right away. Maybe I would have taken it. But God allowed everything to work together because this is where He wants me. I am so blessed tonight.

Please pray for my kids. Their stories are more than I can take but I know that God's shoulders are big enough. Pray that they would experience love in my classroom...a new kind of love. Praise the Lord for many many opportunities to share my love for God with them! Pray that this would continue as I incorporate the true meaning of Christmas these next few days. Pray that this Christmas maybe one of these little ones would have a new hope.

Funny Story of the Day

So as many of you know...being serious is not something that I am very good at...at least not when something funny is happening. Well, my kids are always making me laugh...even when I know that they are being really horrible. I usually try to turn my head quickly, but there are some times when that smile and even laughter escapes for all to see.

My class today...like most days...was like a zoo. I was trying to get the kids to calm down and do math, so I told them to put their heads down and turned off the lights. Of course to some kids, that meant to get up and run around. There is one boy in particular who decided that it was time for hide-and-seek! So here I am checking each locker to find this a student. After about the third locker I just started cracking up at this situation. What?!?!? Some days I really think that I'm on the funny farm. I am thankul for laughter! :)

For Such a Time as This

Thanksgiving....what a wonderful time! I was so refreshed to go home and spend some quality time with my family. I needed this more than I even knew. Being a huggy person, I have not had my fix of close proximity with many people since everyone here is still somewhat new. So, I made sure to fill up at home with lots and lots of hugs and kisses! Lexie Lou helped me out with this, too:

So that is my Lexie...precious huh? :) Anyways, I also got to see my little nephew who is now ALL over the place!! He is hilarious and so much fun! I had to keep reminding myself that I will be back in a few weeks, otherwise I would have had a much more difficult time saying good-bye to this little one.





I also went out shopping on Black Friday for about 9 hours...but not super early. It was a relaxing day of shopping with the fam. The rest of my break was spent on the couch with my family watching the Cavs or falling asleep during a movie. It could not have been more perfect! Here is a picture of how cute we all looked in our Cavs gear:



So as I was preparing to go home and while I was there, I could not help but think of my nineteen little kiddos that would be celebrating differently. It hit me so hard that I was escaping back to a family that loves me unconditionally and that is SO blessed and full of love. My kids don't have this no matter what day it is. While I was at home, I showed my family my kids' pictures and told each of their stories as I know them. Telling them about each kid, I finally just broke. Something about seeing repeatedly the brokenness that almost each one experiences was too much for me. I knew that most of them had difficult lives, but telling them all at one time was so hard. There are about four kids of mine that MAY live with both of their parents....that doesn't mean that they are in a good situation. The comforting part was being able to show my family their faces and know that they will now be specifically prayed for. As sad as I was, it also made me even more determined to be the light and hope that these kids so desperately need and some are craving. I know that God is up to something!

Tonight I decided to read from Esther...one of my favorite books of the Bible. I did a study on this book last spring and really got a lot out of it, so I figured I would look at some of the key passages. I turned to chapter 4 where Mordecai is telling Esther that she needs to plead to the king for her people. Esther's message is...are you kidding??? I could die by going unannounced into his presence. I mean...he hasn't even wanted to see me in 30 days! Mordecai responds to her in verse 14, "For if YOU remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but YOU and YOUR father's family will perish. And who knows but that YOU have come to royal position for such a time as this?"

Ok...so I'm not royalty...

But this passage really spoke to me because if Esther did not speak for her people, she would be destroyed. She had to be selfless and come to the place where she saw the big picture...others' lives. She was an orphan girl brought up by Mordecai, her cousin. EVERYTHING played out perfect in order for her to become the queen because the Lord wanted her there and had a purpose for little Hadassah. This was her time...God had brought her there for a reason, and she needed to stop thinking and start acting!

I am sometimes so overwhelmed with the daily behavior issues that I can quickly get wrapped up in discouragement and not see the big picture...that the Lord has brought me here for this time. My aunt told my mom today that God must have a purpose for me being here because He has taken me all around the world but out of all of the places, He has planted me in War, WV.

Please pray that I can be like Esther, selfless. I want to love passionately and with my whole being.

Joy Comes in the Morning

I don't really know where to begin with this week! It probably has been one of the most difficult in my life. There hasn't been one day that I have left school thinking that it has been easy, but this week I left feeling like I was going to cry each day.

The week started so wonderful. Last Sunday evening Laura and I got together with all of the other teachers and some pastors from this area. We were able to share our experiences so far and to really encourage one another in the Lord. We prayed fervently, and for the first time I was able to see the big picture of why the Lord had brought each of us to this school district. It was such an encouraging time, and I left so excited to begin the week!

Then Monday came... As I mentioned in my previous post, the state department was at our school all week, so everyone was under a lot of stress and extra pressure. I felt like there were so many things that I needed to get done on top of my already survival teaching mode. So, each night my roommate and I were up till around 12 or 1...if you are a teacher you know that is way past bedtime! Anyways, on top of just feeling exhausted, my students were more than I could handle.

So many things have happened this week...too many to mention. It is hard to believe but four of my students were suspended by the principal for their behavior and one is probably going to join that number. 2nd and 3rd grade! WHAT? Yeah...behavior issues here are not the same. Talking to my mom the other day I was saying how I should be worrying about coming up with creative lesson plans and how to reach my kids different learning styles...the exciting work of a teacher. Instead, I don't even feel like I have been able to teach because I have been too busy trying to stop the constant chaos. On top of all of that, I found out that two of my students have serious mental issues. Basically, all of this threw me over the top this week.

I know that this post has seemed really negative so far. Sorry. :( I'm not writing so that you feel sorry for me...I hope that you don't. I still know that this is where I am supposed to be. I would just ask that you please pray for me. It seems that the Lord thinks I am much stronger than I do! There are certain promises that I am clinging to during this time. One is that He is faithful and that His love never fails. Another one is that He works everything for good to those that love Him. Finally, I keep reminding myself that His mercies are new every morning. I have to keep telling myself this daily. A huge blessing was that Friday was my favorite day so far....however, I had 8 absent! haha! It was the very first time that I was able to remember what it was like to be excited about TEACHING again and to have students actively engaged and excited. I am praying that next week is half as good as Friday! Thank you to those of you who have been praying and who been an encouragement to me. I truly appreciate it!

On a really positive note, this weekend has been really great so far. I just got back tonight from a staff retreat which was 2 hours away. It was in a beautiful lodge in the mountains...AMAZING beauty!! 3 deer were waiting for me as I woke up this morning. I am so thankful that I was able to enjoy God's creation as it was so refreshing. Also, there was a chance for me to share my faith with the whole staff by being picked to read my writing during a workshop. God is working, and I'm excited about that! :)

Now I am going to enjoy some Gilmore Girls with my roommate. :)

Here is a picture of me in front of the beautiful lake that Laura and I hiked to on our lunch break!

Prayer Changes Things

So this week has been really really difficult and tiring. The state department has been in and out of our school and will be observing our teaching tomorrow. I feel like this week has shown me how far away I am from a functional classroom...so I have been really overwhelmed. I keep reminding myself that ALL things are possible through God. I know that I CANNOT do this on my own strength...not possible. I have to continuously hand this over to God. I can elaborate more on this week later, but I must work on lesson plans now for a few hours. Please if you can just say a prayer tonight and tomorrow especially about the state. However, please keep praying for me to have the strength needed to pour into these kids even when my flesh is weak and weary.

Signs that I Live in a Small Town

So another week in! Praise the Lord! This week was a four day week since WV has off for Veteran's Day! Honestly, this was a MUCH needed day! I thought that the beginning of the week went fairly well, but Thursday was by far the hardest day with my kids. They were out of control!!! I am learning quickly about behavior management and discipline...probably more than I ever had hoped for. Unfortunately, these kids lack structure and discipline so much. So, I know that it is what they need...I just HATE it!! I sometimes wish that I could just be that sweet Miss Marshall always with a smile! :)

I am sure that you are dying to know how I spent my day off on Wednesday! Well...Tuesday night my roommate and I went out with our new friend, Dan...another teacher...and had some great Mexican food and remembered that we were in our early twenties again. It was so nice to stay up late and not have to worry about the next morning! After dinner, we came back to our house and played some cards and laughed about our new lives! So...Wednesday I slept in till 11:30! AMAZING!!! Laura asked me if I was in the mood for some biscuits and gravy for breakfast. If you know me...that answer is always yes! However, we realized that we didn't have the right ingredients to make our own. After much contemplation, we decided to drive 20 minutes to the nearest McDonald's for breakfast. We stayed in our PJs since we would only be going through the drive through. Well....on the way we soon realized that we would miss breakfast...so we stopped at a convenient store that had a restaurant in the middle of it. We were slightly embarrassed by our attire, but strangely enough, no one even seemed to think we looked funny. May I just add that I was wearing pink slipper boots with fake fur on them?!?! Also, our hair was not combed and makeup was nowhere to be found. Get the picture?!?! :) So we check out the menu and see biscuits and gravy! yes! Well, then we are told that they are out of gravy. fabulous! So, we settled for another breakfast choice that was still probably better than McDonald's. I guess I was not meant to have biscuits and gravy that day. I stayed in my PJs the WHOLE day and watched several episodes of Gilmore Girls...which I am now hooked on....and then finally did some school work. It was basically a wonderful day!! :)

To celebrate the weekend being here, Laura and I met up with Dan again to have dinner at Wendy's...a luxury these days! Then, we went to the movie theatre there....which is actually super nice...and saw 2012. I really enjoyed it; however, there were so many over dramatized parts that made me laugh. I don't agree that the world is going to come to an end in 2012...although it could...but that is for the Lord to choose. He says that NO MAN will know the day or the hour. Also, the movie was three hours...and you could feel it. Besides that, I think overall it was a good movie, and I'm glad I got to see it!

Oh...and tonight when I was driving Laura and I home, we saw a possum in the middle of the road just chewing away on some roadkill. lovely! Really glad it wasn't a deer! ;)



Going with recent tradition, I will leave you with a new list:

SIGNS THAT I LIVE IN A SMALL TOWN:
-There is a Street Sweeper...seriously seems like Disney World...without the magic!
-People at the bank know me by name after the second visit
-There's only one post office man--Ira. War would be lost if he got sick!
-every one knows where you live....for example...when I lost my ipod last Saturday, it was found by a lady I've never seen before and given to my landlord. Then, she knew that I had the white car. Wow!
-Before I pump gas, I have to ask the cashier to turn on the gas.
-Restaurants are literally inside other stores such pharmacies or convenient stores

As much as I think that these things are really funny...I must say that I really am enjoying the Southern hospitality!

Well, I best be heading to bed now. Sleeping in tomorrow and trying to get LOTS of school work done!! I hope that I am as productive as I hope!!

My First Week of Teaching and All the Emotions that Come Along...

That first week that I have always dreamed about it over. Kinda strange. It is really hard for me to believe that I am in the position that I am. Sometimes it makes me laugh to myself when I use my key to open up my door and think...oh this is my room!! To some this probably doesn't make sense. However, to a girl who has waited for this almost 18 years...this is exciting! Seeing my students' desks in the morning is a humbling thing. I try to remember each day to remind myself that I may be the only love that they see and receive that day. I must admit that it is not always easy. This first week has been every emotion possible. But after one week, I know that I am where I am supposed to be and that these kids have already stolen my heart.

Since I love lists, I figured I would make a high's and low's of the week list.

HIGH'S:

-Getting to become Miss Marshall

-Knowing that the Lord is with me and that HE brought me here

-Coming home to a roommate

-Planning a "West Virginia Christmas" party with my roommate and laughing till we cried about our Hillbilly ideas...ex. Pin the tooth on the hillbilly....more to come!

-Donna...also a new teacher that is right next door to my classroom. She is a Christian and so sweet! We eat lunch together and help each other through the day!

-Skype dates and phone calls from family and friends

-Seeing that progress with my students is being made in just one week

LOW'S:

-Hitting a deer in the middle of a dark mountain and realizing that Gigi (my car) was damaged

-Missing my family and Lexie

-Hearing Dylan laugh and babble in the background and knowing I can't be there to squeeze him or to see his little smile or to have his first overnighter with my family

-Scrapping my windows already and having my hands and lips be chapped

-Not knowing what to do in many areas of teaching

-Almost crying in the middle of my math lesson because the kids wouldn't settle down and it failed miserably.

-Sending my first kid to the office

-Thinking my life as a waitress may not have been a bad idea

Ok so now onto the list of phrases from 8-10 year olds...

-"Miss Marshall, why do you wear those cloth thingys?" referring to my scarves

-"Miss Marshall, are those your real teeth or are those dentures?"

-After learning about rural, suburban, and urban communities, I asked, "Which community is War?" The kids all thought "CITY!"....poor things!

-"Miss Marshall are you high class or do you like to get dirty?"

-From outside the boys bathroom, I hear..."Miss Marshall, I can't get my underwear on!"

-The first day I met the kids one of their questions was, "Miss Marshall, are you from the beach?"

-"Miss Marshall, have you ever been in a movie? I think I've seen you before."

-"Miss Marshall, do you got any babies? Why not? Any husbands?"....these are asked almost daily.

Finally, a list of some things you may want to know:

-Maw Maw means grandma
-"I've gota use it" means I have to use the restroom
-the water in the school shuts off everyday during certain hours. I was upset at my kids washing their hands in the drinking fountain before I realized that that was the only source of water.

-All of the teachers carry a bottle of soap with them since the school doesn't provide it in the bathrooms.

-Copying a piece of paper at the school is like getting a tooth pulled

And I've saved the best for last....

I am on lunch duty every day, and I have found the most interesting (used broadly) part of the school...sharing food. Most schools...ok all schools...I have been to have a rule not to share food. Well, here the motto is, "Get me some." As the teachers walk around, students raise their hands and say, "Can you get me some ____fill in the blank___". Then, the teacher goes around and looks for that item from another kid that isn't eating it and gives it to the first kid. So my first day when I was asked, "Miss Marshall, can you get me some green beans?" I didn't know what to do. I think I probably said something like, "I don't know if they will sell you just green beans." After little faces with confused looks, I was told about the sharing process and that I would now be a scout! This more than anything cracks me up!

Well, that is enough updating for now. YAY for the weekend!!!!! :)

Here is a picture of my roommate and I at our school's high school football game

Miss Marshall

So I now have three days of teaching in. In my last post, I wasn't sure when I would begin; however, I got a call the following morning to come in. Meeting my students wasn't as I expected since I didn't welcome them into the classroom first thing. However, I was still really nervous and excited at the same time. My students have had a retired sub for the past two months and from what I've heard, are way behind. They all clapped for me when the sub introduced me as their new teacher. I know that God heard my prayers about attachment issues...there were none!!! I think that they are all just so excited that someone is there for them. I have been asked several times, "Miss Marshall, are you coming back tomorrow." I am so glad that I can say YES!!!

Even though I am THRILLED to have my own classroom and to be working with these students...it has been three rough and long days. I am exhausted....however, not enough to go to bed quite yet! ;) I have two students with special needs...one who is pulled out for a few hours during the morning. However, both of them are very disruptive and hard to handle. In my student teaching, I never dealt with these issues, so I am learning LOTS!!!! Please pray for me as I try to help these students as well as teach all of the others. I know that I am not doing well at that yet. As far as the other students, the girls all try really hard and try to pay attention. The boys...not so much. They are for sure trying to see what I am made of. I am remembering my professors saying over and over....be tough at the beginning or you will lose control. This is so hard for me, but the Lord is giving me the strength to get through this rough time. The past two days I have seen a small improvement already...it is enough to make me encouraged and know that with consistency, structure, and LOVE, I can reach these kids!

Most of my students come from broken homes. When we say broken homes, it doesn't mean the same thing. Several have parents on drugs. And several are in prison. Some students have already told me about their situation. My heart breaks for these kids. Hearing these stories makes me know that I am here for a purpose. These kids need love and hope. Those are two things that I am confident that I can give them...no matter how much school work they learn.

Well, I will leave with a few pictures:

My first night seeing my classroom...moving in



Where I teach

My very girly bedroom :)

I Just May Live in a Holler

Tonight my roommate. Laura (another Laura), were discussing that people consider where we live a holler. This for some reason really entertained us. Seriously, we live in the middle of nowhere.

Some things I have noticed so far....
-I can say "I'm going to War" almost everyday since that is where I teach/live
-After I say one word, people know I am not from "around here"
-Everyone says hi
-Things are much slower....even when it comes to professional jobs (ex. 1 school board taking forever to get my paperwork done in order for me to begin teaching. Ex. 2 the manager of the bank wanting to spend an hour with me)
-I feel like I live in Cheers with an accent...the place where everybody knows your name.
-The closest fast food is down the mountain...20 minutes away.
-y'all is the word(s) I hear most
-My cell phone never even recognizes a signal on this mountain.


So....those are just a few of the many everyday things I am experiencing. As far as the scenery...it is absolutely beautiful! I am overwhelmed at God's creation and thankful that I get to see it so abundantly. Never would I have thought that I would be driving these winding roads with guardrails and mountains everyday.

I guess I can fill you in on a little of what has happened so far to get you up to date. My parents and I came down on Saturday. Due to the winding roads, mom got car sick. So, we stayed at the bottom of the mountain in a motel that is indescribable...let's just say we were the majority of their guests! On Sunday, we moved me into my little house with Laura. I am really thankful that I have a roommate...especially one who loves the Lord and has similar interests and life callings. From painting to nailing pictures up to organizing to Wal-Mart runs an hour away....we put in a full day. I had to fill out paper work down the mountain on Monday, so I met Mom and Dad at the motel. We had some brunch at McDonald's (taking advantage of the fast food...never thought I would say that!). In the afternoon Mom, Dad, and I went to the school to see my classroom and move some of my things in. Half the stuff I brought with me is teaching things since I have been saving for so many years. I cannot wait to finally be able to use these things and have students use them, too! My classroom is really nice but really messy/overcrowded. After moving things in, it was time for Mom and Dad to get on the road. Saying goodbye was difficult knowing that is really happening...reality set in quick. As sad as I was to know that I can't be with my family till breaks and summer, I am so excited to teach and know that this is where I am supposed to be at this point.

Feeling really overwhelmed with so much to do Monday night, I asked God to just give me something encouraging. I read that days passage out of "My Utmost For His Highest," and it was just what I needed. It was titled, "What is a missionary?" Basically it said how it is obeying God's call and allowing Him to work things together. Many times we set the picture up ourselves and do what we think God wants for us instead of allowing Him total control and organization. When He calls us, He is behind everything. I am certain that this is the case with me being here. The timing, my roommate, the school, and so many other things are confirmation that the Lord wants me here. For that I am overjoyed!

So, I tried hard to get things done last night, and then got a call later in the evening from the board of education. The state didn't send the approval in yet, so they said I couldn't start today (Tuesday). This was actually a blessing I believe since I had so much to do before meeting the kids. So all day today I worked on things for my classroom. Tonight I went in for a few hours to set up some more things. I'm sure the kids think that they have an invisible teacher. Please pray for my students! They have had a hard year, too, with subs and probably feeling like they don't belong since they are a split class as well. I want it to be a family environment and for them to be able accept me quickly. Also, please pray that I will catch on to all the things that they are doing academically. With 2nd and 3rd grade in one, I have double of every subject. So, there is a ton to learn....and NO time!! However, the Lord is faithful! I am so excited that He has chosen me to be these children's teacher!

The newest news...I am not starting tomorrow morning either. I got another call from the board and again no news from the state. There is a possibility that it will come early tomorrow. If so, I may be in the classroom in the afternoon. crazy. Thankfully, this summer has taught me to live for today and not worry about tomorrow. The Lord is in control!

I am going to head to bed now. Thanks so much for reading this and being a part of my life. As I mentioned, I have no cell reception. However, I have internet, so I can email or skype. And I have a local phone which means that you can call me. Please do one of these because I would love to talk! :) Let me know if you need that info! Also, I will put some pictures up of my life here soon!

Much love,
the country girl

So the newest update....West Virginia here I come!

So you may be thinking, WhAt?!?!? I honestly have been hesitant to post this. If you have been following my journey through the past few months...you know why. It seems like things change at the last minute. Well, I think that this time is the real thing.

I guess I need to go back to the beginning of the summer. Sometime at the end of May, I talked with Paul (youth pastor at my church) and he told me about something called "Operation West Virginia." Basically there is a Christian and Missionary Alliance (CMA) pastor down in West Virginia who is looking for young, mission minded people to teach in a public school and to help with church planting on the side. Since my heart is to combine the two...I thought this sounded perfect. However, all summer I have been looking but no jobs for elementary. Well, about a month or so ago TONS of spots opened. I ended up applying for NINE!

Since the last time I wrote, I decided that I better start looking for employment elsewhere since teaching didn't seem to be an option. So, I got hired at Cracker Barrel a few weeks ago. My second day of training, I finally got a call from West Virginia after weeks of waiting. So a week and a half ago, dad and I drove 6 hours each way to the mountains of West Virginia for an interview. Just being down there was so encouraging to me. Let me tell you, this is a mission field of its own. God has already brought so many things together....like my roommate and house! There are two other people that are doing what I will be doing, Dan and Laura. They both started at the beginning of the school year. Well, out of all the schools in the district, like 6 or 7 elementaries....I got called to interview at Southside which is a k-8 school. Turns out that Laura teaches middle school english there. That is the only school that we would have been able to be in the same building with two different ages of kids. And...she rents a house 3 miles from the school....and she wants a roommate! God is so good! So, when Dad and I were down there, we got to have dinner with Ken (CMA pastor), Dan, and Laura. Also, I got to take a peek at Laura's house...aka my new house! The whole time down there, I just felt a peace.

On Tuesday I got the call offering me the job. Even though I was excited, I was hesitant to let anyone but family know since all the craziness of the summer. However, I have already filled out the paper work and think everything is ready for me to go! I'm aware that there are going to be some hard times ahead. For one, my students have been used to a sub for two months now, and I don't have a clue where they are academically. And besides meeting my roommate for a few hours, I don't know anyone down there. Oh, and I have NO cell reception....this will be really hard for me!! I know that it won't be easy and that I'm sure there will be lonely nights....but I am SOOO excited!!!

I remember a friend telling me earlier this summer that maybe God had something special for me that would be better than just teaching. I think that this is it! Talk about the eleventh hour! He is so faithful, and I am soooo thankful that I get to begin doing what I have always dreamed of....teaching! I know that God has been with me each step of this journey and that there is a reason that all of this has happened and a reason that I am going to War, West Virginia. I have learned so much through this process. One thing has been to be thankful for today and not to worry about tomorrow. I truly am so thankful that I have been able to spend so much time with my family these past few months. I love them so much! And I have been able to hold my little nephew and treasure thousands of baby smiles and hugs. I am so blessed!

So plan now...run like crazy to pack everything I own, finish waitressing at Cracker Barrel, get lots of family time in, go through my collection of teaching items and plan for my classroom and students, oh....and get a car...

Please pray for me this week that I would be productive and that God would start to prepare the hearts of the little ones that I get to meet SO SOON!!!! :)

A Change in my Schedule but NOT my Heart

So, most of you think that I am in the Dominican Republic right now. Well, nope. I am still at home in Ohio. I am typing on my new laptop that was purchased and shipped just for my trip.

In my last post I explained the craziness of the past few weeks. Well, nothing compared to last Thursday night-Friday night...less than 24 hours. Within this time, I bought my ticket (and wrote about it in my previous blog), got offered a job in Akron, got called for a first interview around home, and called for a second interview in Indiana. Needless to say, I was asking the Lord, "WHAT!?!??!?!?" I had no idea what He was trying to say to me and was so confused. I knew that this was no coincidence though. Even in the midst of total confusion and being completely overwhelmed, I stopped and thanked God that He is so present. There was not a doubt in my heart that He was trying to tell me something. So, I spent hours trying to listen for His voice and sort out all of these new and old options. At the end of the night I knew I wasn't going to take the job in Akron and still needed to pray about the DR now. Since that night I started to really question my decision. Was this really where God wanted me or was this more about my heart and being willing? The story of Abraham and Isaac came to my mind. The Lord didn't really want Abraham to kill his son, he just wanted to know that He had all of his heart. After much prayer I feel that this is similar to my situation. I was willing to go...I bought my ticket! However, I think that the Lord was showing me again that this isn't the right time...but He knows my heart is ready. It has been clear to me...again...that I am to use teaching in some type of ministry. Being overseas in the near future is a really good possibility. My heart is still the same.

So now what? I am back to searching for a job again. I thought that this was over since on Friday I had two offers. But again the Lord says, "wait." I know that the Lord is going to provide in some way. He has already made that clear! I am praising Him for speaking to me and for loving me so much that He has made a perfect plan for my life. I am a lucky girl! :)

I'm going to the Dominican Republic...like SOON!

YES!! That is right! On Monday I will be flying to the Dominican Republic where I will be living and teaching at Jarabacoa Christian School!!! These past two weeks have been the craziest, most stressful, most emotional and most reassuring of God's presence that I may have ever experienced. Even though I did not have neon lights telling me to go, I believe God has spoken to me in His still small voice. Though the journey of job searching has been long and rough, He has reminded me that He is in control.

I just bought my plane ticket tonight so it seems more real to me now. However, I still feel like I may pee my pants at any second!! Okay...so I should probably start with...how did this all happen?!?!?

As many of you know, I was offered a job in Burkina Faso after student teaching there this past fall. I felt like God was telling me, "not now." So, I said no. At the time I thought "not now" meant that it was going to be far off...at least a year before going to teach overseas. I NEVER would have thought that "not now" meant...in a few months!! I started applying to schools in the spring and then made it a full time job through the summers. Applications are everywhere in my room and all over the house. I cannot even begin to think how many I have filled out. Then there were the few interviews. They all seemed really promising, like many of the other situations. However, each door was closing. In the middle of the summer I remember asking the Lord if He was closing these doors to show me I was supposed to teach overseas. Around that time I got an email from Natalie...my soon to be roommate and co-worker and also former TU student...who wondered if I would be interested in teaching in the DR. This thought stayed in the back of my mind, but it seemed logistically out of the question. After all, I passed on a really good financial offer to Burkina already. Well, more doors kept closing, and I thought more about this opportunity. One day while praying while sun bathing in my pool, I thought of what was holding me back. Because this is actually where my heart is. I realized that student loans were the only thing. So, I did some research and realized that I could put my loans on hold for a year without being penalized. Everything from that moment seemed to keep falling into place. My heart was growing more and more fond of this idea and the more I thought and prayed about it, the more I realized this may be exactly where God wants me this year. It was so neat when I realized that all of the things that I was hesitant on about going to Burkina were not the case here:

Problem 1...I didn't know French and really didn't have a desire to learn....Spanish is the language of the DR. One of my life goals is to learn Spanish fluently because I have a deep passion for this language.
Problem 2...I didn't want to live in another country alone....I will be living with Natalie and another girl!
Problem 3...The students are not locals so I didn't feel like I got to be a part of the actual country and people of Burkina--the Burkina I love...I will be teaching local Dominicans and be able to form relationships with them and their families!
Problem 4...I didn't want to make a two year commitment....this is only a one year contract
Problem 5...Plane tickets are so expensive so if there was an emergency I couldn't come home and my parents probably wouldn't be able to visit....flights to the DR are MUCH cheaper and affordable.

So...based on just these little things...I was and still am at total peace with this new endeavor. I promise this is the end of this long story...but the last confirmation I had was when the door to a school in Indiana closed...actually it slammed shut. I prayed specifically that God would open and close doors for me to either go or to stay. I want to be where He wants me and that is it! The day I prayed this...last Wednesday, I got called for an interview in Indiana. "Ok, Lord, I hear you!" So I went to Indiana, interviewed, came back, and waited to hear the verdict. Well, for some reason it took forever for them to get back to me...and finally I found out that the positions had been filled. I truly believe that the Lord has clearly opened this door for me to go to the DR. He knows my heart and what is best for me. I am so thankful for that!!!

Now, as I prepare to pack up my life and to say good-byes and start planning lessons for my little kiddos, I need your prayers! I'm so thankful that I have the weekend to spend with my whole family...even little Dylan and Jack! :) Please pray that things during this time would go smoothly and that God would comfort my family and our hearts as we prepare to say good-bye for nine months.

Well, buenas noches!!! :)

Summer is Almost Over?

Somehow the summer days and nights have slipped away, and we are already into the middle of August. When I think of this time, I think of getting ready to go back to school. Well, as an elementary teacher, this is exactly what I planned on doing. Through the entire spring semester, my last semester at Taylor, I heard the question, "What are you going to do?." This question drove me crazy...at least I thought it did. It did not compare to how I feel now when I am asked that same question 3 months down the road. All summer I have been spending my days applying to any school I can find in Ohio, Indiana, some in North Carolina, and even one in West Virginia. Earlier this summer I got interviewed for a Kindergarten position in Akron, Ohio which would be close to home. It seemed like it was a great opportunity, and I got a second interview. I felt so good about it and thought there would be a good chance I would get the job. I remember thinking how amazing it would be to start working on preparing my classroom, lessons, and most of all....I would have security. This word has been a huge learning process this summer. Needless to say, I did not get the job. I was second out of 150+ applicants...but I did not get it. Another door closed and again...no security.

I have realized how much I want security in my life. This has been a surprise to me because I feel like I am a "go with the flow" kinda girl. However, with more friends landing jobs...and husbands...I feel myself craving just something to have that I can call mine and lean on that won't close or fall apart. To some this probably sounds so silly, but it truly was wearing me down...until I broke. Thankfully, I was reminded through scripture and through amazing friends and family that God is still all that I need. It's funny...well kind of sad too...to me how quickly we forget things that God teaches us in our lives. There have been countless times in my life that things looked dismal and hopeless but God has always shown His face and brought me from darkness into light. I look back on these past situations and think how silly I was to worry when God knew all along what was best for me. I believe that soon I will look back on this waiting for a job experience and feel the same.

Besides job searching, I have been up to a few other things this summer. One major highlight was going to Philadelpia on a missions trip with my church's youth group. This trip was unique because it was my first state side missions trip and it was also my first time as a leader. I was looking forward to both aspects. Truthfully, I went into the trip thinking that I was there to learn as a leader and that my eyes probably wouldn't be opened that much...afterall, I have been to Burkina Faso and so many other hurting countries. It was just like our God to totally blow me away and open my eyes in SO many ways. One thing that God really taught me through this trip was humilty. This probably isn't surprising considering my pre-trip thoughts. The first night in Philly God started showing me how selfish I am even in ministry. I love ministry, and I love people. However, many times without even thinking, I choose which ministry and which person/people that I want to love. I seldom allow God to set this up. There were a lot of times in Philly that I wanted to jump in and be where the action was...especially with the Vacation Bible School. As I love kids and am experienced, I wanted to work one-on-one with them. But that wasn't where God wanted me. He wanted me to allow the youth students to reap that joy and to be changed by the kids. It was amazing how when I allowed God to work this way...the way He intended...I was able to experience so much joy in a new way. God continued to show me that I cannot be selfish in ministry throughout the trip. My favorite part of the trip was ministering on Kenzington Avenue. This is one of the roughest spots in Philly. As you can imagine, sheltered Amanda was really out of place. As I walked these streets I realized that I have seen a ton of things in my travels...but that was mainly due to poverty. This was different...this was total darkness. I cannot explain the darkness...it just existed. It was in the air, and it was in the faces of those we talked with. In my twenty-two years in the church, I have never felt the desire to want to share about the Lord more than I did this week. After just sitting on the side of the street talking with a homeless person or huging someone with multiple diseases, I realized that they need nothing on this earth...they ONLY need the Lord. I am so thankful that I was able to make some relationships with these precious people who the Lord loves just as much as me and you. I will always remember their faces and their eyes. Even in this darkness, Jesus is there. He just appears hidden with all the sin. But He is not. He is alive. And I know that little by little that street will experience light. What a joy it will be when some of these people are worshipping beside me in heaven.

Okay...I will not make this next part as long! Other than all of the above stuff...this summer has been filled with family. If you know me...you know that nothing on this earth makes me happier than being with my family! This summer has truly been a gift from God to be a family and to enjoy one another and just laugh. Some highlights have included: swimming and sunbathing with Bri, late night dollar theatre runs with Eddie, visits with my grandparents, hugs and smiles from my little Dylan (my nephew), jamming sessions with dad, heart to hearts and quality time with mom, weekend visits from Jack and Andrea (Bri's girlfriend and her 4 year old son), and most of all...just "being" a family.

So, that is my summer recap. Here are a few pictures. Thanks for reading! I will make sure to update this when God opens up a door. I know He will. :)

Jack and I swimming! Or should I say floating? :)

My first trip to Chuck E. Cheese which included: Mom, Dad, Jack, and I

Eddie and his precious baby, Dylan! This kid LOVES the water! :)

It has been awhile

Wow...I just realized that it has been a long time since I have written. I feel like a lot has happened since then. The biggest thing is that I graduated a few weeks ago with my Elementary Education degree. It is the strangest thing to consider myself a teacher now. I have known I have wanted to teach since I was five years old, but it was always a far off dream. Now it is here. Crazy. But I am so excited that it is here and that soon I will hopefully be doing what I have always dreamed of. The past several months I have been spending the majority of my time filling out applications for teaching positions in Ohio, Indiana, North Carolina, and now possibly West Virginia. I am really open to going anywhere as long as I am teaching. Also, I would love to not be totally alone. It would be great to live at home or with some Taylor friends for a year or two to get some teaching experience in. During that time of learning, I want to pay my school loans off so that I can be out of debt. Then, if God is still leading me in the direction He is now, I plan on teaching overseas or starting some type of teaching ministry. Only God knows. I am thankful that He does and that is all that matters. To be honest, the past few weeks at home have been difficult and full of doubt in my heart. I have not only been applying to teaching positions but also to summer jobs. I have never been more broke in my life and now I currently do not have health insurance since I graduated. I feel like each day I hear the clock ticking and more and more of my friends are getting teaching jobs. I have been reminding myself the past few days who gave me this passion for teaching. Why worry when the Lord has directed my steps for twenty-two years. He won't stop now. So, I am excited to see where "next" is for me. Until then, I am enjoying spending time with my family and some extra time with my grandparents. Yesterday I was visiting them and thinking how blessed I am to have grandparents still that love me so much and that I can see whenever I want. I don't want to take this for granted.

Well, besides all of that....our swimming pool is almost ready for jumping in! Today we can see the bottom of the deep end. I am always like a little kid when it comes to the pool. We are hoping that Lexie (our 125lb. dog) doesn't try swimming too. This is her first summer with us, so she is still trying to figure out why we are now outside so much and looking at this cement pond. It ought to be interesting. :)

Here are some pictures of the last days while at Taylor.

Dr. Quinn with Ellen, Britt, and I at the Education Breakfast

Wonderful Elementary Education majors...we LOVE T-A-Y-L-O-R!

My wonderful family and I after the graduation ceremony

A Glimpse into Poverty from a Materialistic Girl

Throughout my time at Taylor, God has opened my eyes up to the world and to what the Gospel truly is. I am repeatedly challenged by messages involving social justice. I know that our God is a God of justice. One of my favorite verses is Isaiah 30:18 where it says:

The Lord longs to be gracious to you.

He rises to show you compassion.

The Lord is a God of justice,

Blessed are all who wait on Him.

Sometimes when I read this verse I insert my name in the "you's." Also, I insert people groups around the world who I have worked with and seem hopeless. This reminds me that God love for them is so powerful and that His heart breaks for the injustice that they are facing.

The past three years, Taylor has set up a Cardboard Community for Social Justice Week. This is the second year that I have participated. Last year, my friend Ellen and I decided to live outside in the cardboard box community. We had a lot of academic things that week, so this was really the only part that we were involved in. It was eye opening but a lot of fun. This week was Social Justice Week, and it has been one my lightest weeks so far. So, my friend Britt and I decided that we would build a cardboard home together. I was so excited to be more involved and to get a better glimpse of what breaks my God's heart.

I have to admit, I had no idea what a challenge this would be this year. The cardboard this year was flimsy and smaller, making house building extremely difficult. So, after 3 and a half hours, Britt and I had a home that looked like it could fall over at a moment's notice. Monday night we got into our house and it rained literally the entire night. I woke up around 3am with water pouring on my face and my pillow soaking wet. I couldn't sleep the rest of the night and was simply miserable. I remember looking at the time and thinking that I still had several hours till I could leave. Later I began to think about the whole leaving thing. Homeless people don't have the option to go back to a warm apartment if their box or street sleeping is just too much on them. I knew that in a few days this would be all over, and I would be back in my comfy bed. Homeless people don't experience this. I started to think about how hopeless they must be each day waking up to this reality.

The second night in our box was just as bad except we were so tired that we slept a little better. It had rained the entire day and again through the entire night. Our box was half soaking wet, so we managed to sleep in a ball tucked at the bottom. I woke up thinking that I don't know if I could do a third night. However, Britt and I lifted each other's spirits and we ventured out last night for our final night. When we got to our box, it was totally soaked and all of the walls were collapsing. We almost went back to our houses and gave up. But, then Britt had the idea of sleeping under the overhang of one of our academic buildings. We grabbed some sleeping bags from friends since ours were too wet. I can't remember two seconds after I put my head down. I woke up a few times being cold, but I slept pretty well.

To be honest, I am really thankful that tonight I will be in my bed. I don' t think that I will ever forget this week. It wasn't fun, it was miserable. I think that is what I needed though to get a more realistic view of the injustice occurring all over America and the world.

It is exciting to me that so many Taylor students are aware of this and want to make a difference. I pray that God continues to make us uncomfortable and uses our hands and feet to bring justice to His precious children.

This week we have been singing "Hosanna" by Hillsong. This is one of my favorite songs, and I think that it was perfect for this week.

I see the king of glory

Coming on the clouds with fire

The whole earth shakes

The whole earth shakes

Yeeeah

I see his love and mercy

Washing over all our sin

The people sing

The people sing

[Chorus]

Hosanna

Hosanna

Hosanna in the highest

I see a generation

Rising up to take their place

With selfless faith

With selfless faith

I see a near revival

Stirring as we pray and seek

We're on our knees

We're on our knees

[Chorus]

Heal my heart and make it clean

Open up my eyes to the things unseen

Show me how to love like you have loved me

Break my heart from what breaks yours

Everything I am for your kingdoms cause

As I go from nothing to Eternity

[Chorus]

The Potter's Hands

A few weeks ago I secretly had a ceramics lesson with Laura, who is currently in the class. It was such a wonderful and fun experience. I have worked with clay before, but I have never done wheel throwing. The whole thing was a process that had such meaning to me when I thought about our Potter.

First, the clay is really tough, so you have to throw it as hard as you can to soften it. Sometimes, God has to take us through storms and even fire in order to speak to us and to get us to have softened hearts. Next, we had to center the clay on the wheel. Without being centered, the whole thing would fall apart. Without keeping God our center and our focus, this will happen to us, too. After that, you can start to make whatever it is you are making. Laura kept telling me that I needed to add more water because it dries out quickly. This made me think of prayer and time with God. We are only nourished and able to be filled vessels when we are filled with Him. We need more and more of this. We can never have enough. I decided to make a bowl for my first item. Getting the clay to look like a bowl took many steps. However, towards the end, after my hands had softened the clay and worked with it a great deal, it started to follow every slight movement that my hands went. Soon, I had a beautiful bowl (at least I thought so). Again, this reminds me of our Potter. Even when He speaks to us and we know He is working, we sometimes still want to hold on ourselves. We don't know what the outcome is going to look like. But, when we choose to give our lives 100% to the Potter's hands, we can freely be molded into something beautiful. Then, the Potter looks at His work and is so proud. He forgets all about the beginning steps and the resistance; He only sees beauty.

I am so thankful that I had this experience. The song, "Potter's Hand" was always one of my favorites, but now that phrase has a whole new meaning.

Spring Break in Ohio

For spring break I went home to be with my family. It was a great week that went by too quickly. I decided that I will make a list of the highlights:

In no particular order....
1. Learned how to knit (Thanks, Sherri!) :)
2. Watched enough Cavs' (Cleveland Caveliers) games to get myself hooked like the rest of my family.
3. Witnessed Lexie getting a bath which she hates!
4. Spent the day in Cleveland with my momma
5. Got to make some cash for the first time in way too long
6. Slept in
7. Wore flannel polar bear PJs that my momma got me...that may give you an idea of the weather
8. I beat some Guitar Hero songs on "Hard" with Brian...took us hours and even some headaches
9. Rented a lot of movies with Bri...most of which I fell asleep on
10. Had good converstations with each member of my family and was able to spend a good amount of time with each of them. God is good.

The Pursuit of God

Whenever I get some extra time from reading all the books I have for my classes, I have been reading, Wild at Heart by John Elderedge. So far, I have really enjoyed this book. A few weeks ago I was reading about how women long to be pursued by a man. I would have to agree. :) Then, it talked about how God also longs for us to pursue Him. I know that His word tells us to love Him with all of our hearts, our souls, and our minds. This would obviously mean basically the same thing. In my mind though, they were separate. I know that God wants our love and everything from us. But personally knowing and understanding the word "pursue," takes things to a different level. I want that man to pursue me because he loves spending time with me and wants to know me deeper. I want him to desire to know the silly little quirks about me. I want him to call me randomly during the day to let me know that he's thinking of me. It hit me this night that Jesus wants us to do the same. He wants us to long to be with Him and to know as much about Him as possible.

This past year has been a strange year for me in regards to friendships. Honestly....I have been struggling big time. I attach myself to people I love and would spend every minute with them if possible. Last week I was having a pity party for myself that things shouldn't be the way that they are. How could these people that I love not want to be with me all the time? I love them! Well, today God again brought me back to the idea of me pursuing Him. I heard Him say to me, "Amanda, I know your pain because I sometimes feel this from you. I want you to pursue me." Wow. Again God has shown me that I must continue to put Him before men.

Go pursue God...He is waiting!

Coming to an end...with a new beginning in sight

This past week was the first week of classes for my last semester. It was one of the longest weeks of Taylor for me. I forgot a little what it is like to be a student. Being out of classes and getting a glimpse into the "real world" and then coming back to studying and homework is not easy. However, I am so thankful that I will be finishing off my time here at Taylor with all of my friends as a legitimate college student.

Anyways...I am a pretty sentimental person, so I have been thinking about the "last" this and the "last" that since August, the start of senior year. The truth is that I love Taylor University. It has been nothing but a blessing in my life. These past four years have truly been my best; however, they have also been the most challenging. When I look around the campus, I see beauty everywhere. This beauty is mainly in the people that make up this place. Being a senior, there are times when you feel like you don't know anyone because there are so many underclassmen. Even so, there are so many people that I walk by and am thankful for knowing them. I sometimes get excited to think that we have all been under the same type of an education and that we each have such different gifts and talents and personalities. It makes me think of the Body of Christ and how we all work together. How amazing it would be if all of these Taylor students and all the other Christians out there, would keep this type of energy and passion about the Lord and use it for His glory. It is beyond comprehension I think. Being with these people and seeing Christ shining brightly fills me with hope. I still know that I will struggle with leaving, but I will leave in hope of a bright future...knowing that God is working everywhere through His people...especially in those Upland students. :)

The Peace of God

As some of you may know, I was offered a job at the international school that I student taught in while in Burkina. It was a great offer...especially for a first year teacher. I love Burkina, I love Africa, I love teaching....it all makes sense....perfect, right?

This was a hard decision in many ways...probably the hardest one of my life so far. It was the first time that I knew that no one else could make this decision for me. I am thankful for the wisdom that so many offered; however, I knew that I only needed one voice--God's. While I was in Burkina and shortly after my return, I was pretty sure that I was going to go. I kept telling myself that this made sense and that I HAVE to go for God (since this is somewhere I think He'd want me). I prayed so much for God's voice and a peace about my decision either way. The longer I prayed, the more I felt God tell me "not yet." I was so worried that my fear of the unknown or the thoughts of leaving everyone I love for two years or the thought of "alone" would make me decide not to go. However, I slowly was able to commit these fully to God, knowing that He is with me through every step, and He will provide for me while holding my hand and walking each step with me. Still, I felt that God was saying "not yet." I kept being reminded of the college selection process four years ago. I kept praying that God would make it clear to me where He wanted me. I knew that is where I would be happiest. Many people who I greatly admire recommended Toccoa Falls in Georgia. This was a CMA college that has a great education and ministry program. Also, financially it was the best deal plus scholarships. I kept telling myself that this is probably where God wants me because it "makes sense." So, my parents and I went to visit one weekend with some other church families. While I was there, I tried to picture myself in the different buildings and on the campus, and I couldn't. At the end of the tour, my mom said to me, "Amanda, stop trying to make yourself fit here, it is obvious that you are miserable." This was a great school, but God had somewhere else in mind. He wanted me at Taylor. Now I see that and thank God constantly for this college and how He has used it to bring me closer to Him and mold me into the woman that He wants me to be. ....All of that to say....this situation with Burkina reminded me of that. Maybe that is where God wants me in the future, but that is not where He wants me now. I also remember my college selection progress in general being extremely stressful trying to figure out God's plan. In time, God closed every door, and clearly showed me that Taylor was where I was going. Thankfully, I learned from this. When you are walking in a daily walk with God...you are already in His will. He knows my heart, and He knows that if He wants me in Africa...I will go. So, I just need to wait and listen patiently for Him to speak. And He did. He never fails!

I felt a peace about saying no to this offer on Tuesday, the 14th....the day before I had to decide. That morning I went with my senior elementary class on a trip to Indy to see a christian school. I have always thought private schools were great; however, I never wanted to teach in one...until this day. As I walked through the school and talked with different teachers, I saw the amazing support that these teachers had. I also realized how much I truly need that support as a first and second year teacher. After four years of a great education, I don't want to just "wing it." I have heard over and over how difficult this time is in the beginning, and also how crucial it is to the rest of your teaching experience. Teaching is not just a job for me. It is a calling that God has given me. Therefore, I need to make sure that I am the best possible teacher that I can be. Knowing that, I need a support system in the beginning. Also this day, I overheard my professor talking with another one of my friends who taught overseas for student teaching. He was telling my professor that he would consider going overseas eventually but not right away. She told him how wise he was and explained her thoughts on this issue. This whole day was another confirmation in my heart that my decision was now made. That night I sent the school an email and informed them of my decision. I thanked God for this peace that I still had at this time.

Since I have contacted the school, God has continued to give me this peace. I have no clue where God wants me this upcoming year, but I know that He will take me there. Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit my third graders from my first student teaching experience. Those few hours were some of the best hours I have ever spent. After being ambushed by thirty third graders, I was able to catch up with them and then see how much they had learned. I was able to share with them all about Africa and answer their thousands of questions. One little girl asked me about the houses in Burkina. I explained that I lived in the city where houses were somewhat similar to houses in the US...except for the lizards of course! Then, I told the students about the houses that surrounded the city and how eight or more people sleep on a small space on the dirt or cement floor. All of their faces looked at me like I was telling them something false. Many of these students are "poor" compared to most Americans; however, they are not in the poverty level of most Burkinabe people. After explaining more, one little boy raised his hand and told us that "it doesn't matter if they are poor because they still have their family and that is the real treasure. Love is better than all." This was one of those "teachable moments" that my professors always talk about...stopping academics to share reality with your students. Being with my students I was able to see how much they felt loved by me and accepted. Not that I was perfect...I was not by far. But I did love each of those kids, and I know that God used me in that school. I left so excited about next August when I hopefully have my own class for a full year.

Don't be afraid of God's will. Follow Him daily and know that He knows the desires of your heart. He just wants us to obey Him. Let Him be God and show you where He wants you. He will!