Monday I had an interview with West Covina. The interview was with a principal whom I have never met (looking for a 5th grade teacher). I am assuming my information was passed to her from the other interview I had in West Covina (that principal was looking for a 4th grade teacher).
The interview was good. She was late, but then I figured it was because she was waiting for one other person to help her interview me. They asked good questions, yet, once again, the district did not send her my information, so she was blind to who I was, but obviously learned who I was fast. I answered the questions well, until she told me why her 5th grade teachers will not rotate anymore at her school (I am game with whatever!), one reason was because of state testing and their school's poor score results. Then she asked me of my school scores...yeah, I have no idea, sorry don't memorize that stuff. I know my answer was lame..... sorry that's not why I teach. Dumb answer, but I really pay attention to the testing aspect in my ways, which is not as much as others do along that line. State action is my framework to teach...I don't necessary teach to the test. I could go on, but her response to me was, "We eat, breathe, and sleep what our test scores will be." I get it, but yikes! Even though I might have been a little clumsy with the state testing talk, she asked me to come back next week for a panel interview with the other two 4th and 5th grade teachers, for they need to help in the process of picking who they want to work with. There are three of us that she is considering. So Tuesday morning I will yet again go back to the school and interview again.
Meanwhile, the same day, which is pretty typical and my comic relief. The principal in Duarte called me. She was impressed with my interview, along with a few other teachers. She said there are many qualified teachers whom she has interviewed, yet has not a clue which one to pick (she has a k, 2nd, and 5th grade spot open). She decided her process to find out which one would make the cut would be through a demo lesson. She wanted me to come this Wednesday to the school and teach for the summer school kids. I am at the moment not in California. I explained to her my situation. She asked me to call her when I get back and she would try to create a way where I could do a lesson for a group of students, even if it was the children of PTA parents, then she will see first hand Ms. McGee in action....should I scare her with a song? hehehe I guess that will be next week also.
I am still not opposed to Japan, but they still only have openings for teachers whom are familiar with Japanese. Rosetta Stone might have to be an investment for me! Ha! Just Kidding!
Not matter what I still have peace. I understand and believe the Lord will provide. I am ready for a revealing of the great future, but it looks like I am still in the search, wait and trust phase!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Hilarious email from one of my students this year!
"I DID IT"i finally passed science.
Now i am close in math but far from laughage arts.
your right it does make you have a warm fuzzy-feeling.
i am sooooo happy i cant explane
it. thanks 4 the encouragement. thats the only reason i am were i am. this is my best
year ever in elemtry school, only because i have the gratest 5th grade science teacher.
[that means you] and i mean that you are the best teacher ever. you and Mrs.Fisher.
THANKS again... i almost pee'd my pants when you sang to Nathan, chad, and griffen.
that was sooo funny. :o
Now i am close in math but far from laughage arts.
your right it does make you have a warm fuzzy-feeling.
i am sooooo happy i cant explane
it. thanks 4 the encouragement. thats the only reason i am were i am. this is my best
year ever in elemtry school, only because i have the gratest 5th grade science teacher.
[that means you] and i mean that you are the best teacher ever. you and Mrs.Fisher.
THANKS again... i almost pee'd my pants when you sang to Nathan, chad, and griffen.
that was sooo funny. :o
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
The Journey to Discover What is Next
Last Week of School
********************
During the last week of school I began to realize and let sink in a huge journey was ahead of me, yet I tried not to let myself go there because I knew I needed to finish strong with the group of students I had. Of course, I definitely had days that were tougher than others, especially when a kid would come in my class with such pride to hand me a gift, and the most meaningful cards the whole family made personalized with such heartfelt words. In no way was it easy to appropriately say thanks to the many who have embraced me so well to enhance my passion of teaching in the classroom. I am still working on the thank you and not ready to say good bye… and I am pushing 5 weeks out of school! Yikes! It was hard….I think the last couple of days someone, if not me, came to me in tears as they realized my teaching journey was on a path of change. It was by no means easy to pack up things gutting room 26 including returning all my teacher books and supplied teaching materials, and then bring 16 packed boxes/containers and 4 3-doored plastic containers through the house and upstairs into my bedroom. After many conversations with those whom I hold with high regard I am assured there are reasons for everything, and I am ok with not necessarily knowing the answers, but I do know what my passions are and I consider the way they are used a journey, for I have certainty that God will use me and them in His perfect will, often opportunities I don’t even think.
*
Summer Week 1
*********************
Why not dream big? When am I ever given the opportunity to have a free ticket in life to do anything I want to do…considering I really do not have too many attachments that can wait for me! After pondering life with my sister, we came to the conclusion that I love to travel, be with kids, and teach. Why not teach abroad? But where? I thought of spinning the world and whatever my finger landed on that is where I was going….yet, that might be too drastic and not that smart. I decided to come up with a list of criteria of what it would take to get me to teach in another country. After my criteria were set, I began the idea of searching for the best place to teach. I started by a Google search and definitely became overwhelmed fast. I decided maybe Japan was the place for me to go. It met my personal criteria…. my good friend’s grandparents live there, it was safe….and why not?
*
Next I needed to figure out the teaching aspects. A few days passed since my Japan revolution…I remembered Glendora’s sister city is in Moko, Japan, along to with the idea that the middle schools are sister schools. Bingo!!! I called the president of the sister city communication, whom is a principal in my district and I had his son last year. After hearing the experience he had, I was in. He emailed the Moko people and to my unfortunate luck the Moko American teachers from last year decided to spend another year teaching…resulting in no teaching in Moko for me. At one point one teacher was being considered to be let go, but the city decided to give the teacher another try. Still in contact with the Moko experienced principal, I received an email that suggested I try an agency called Joy Talk that hires American teachers to come into the Japan school system. I researched the website, and decided to apply attaching I think 9 different documents they wanted from me. Then I waited to see what would happen!
*
Summer Week 2
*********************
I heard back from Joy Talk. They wanted to interview me through Skype. No problem. It took me quite some time to realize the time difference from Japan and California, for my interview time was scheduled for Japanese Standard Time. I figured Japan is a day ahead of California and time is close to opposite. I had no choice for an interview time, I signed up for 5am my time, 9pm Japan time. Slightly nervous, I was coached by my roomies and sister. I also called my Moko expert freaking out and asked him what I needed to ask through my interview. I was ready. My sis even said something along the lines of, “Don’t forget to do your hair and make-up, it is an interview…but sit in your underwear if you want, but be confident!”
*
Bright and early, I woke up on a Wednesday, 4am, got gorgeous, by 4:30 I was downstairs, heart pounding…reassured by Ephesians 5:1-2 and 15-17, “Follow God’s example in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love for others following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was sweet like perfume to him.” “So be careful how you live, not as fools, but as those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do.” I even had a power bar and huge glass of water. I was set. 5am appears on the clock….no sign of the Joy Talk people trying to ring me in through Skype…then I reread my email what seemed 100 times. I could not figure it out, why was Joy Talk not calling me? I looked again at the Japanese Standard Time and my time….ohhhhhhhh nooooo wrong day….I went back to bed, and repeated my steps the next day! Practice is good right! Two days in a row of 4am primping!
*
The interview went really smooth. We video chatted for over an hour and a half. Joy Talk answered all of my questions and made me feel at peace right away, as he mentioned in person I was indeed the person all my papers claimed I was! In Japan, my role as a teacher would be to team teach with a Japanese English teacher at the middle school level. Elementary exposure would be slim for me since I do not speak Japanese, and the teachers are intimidated by Americans. I would be like a celebrity as the Japanese want to learn and embrace the American culture, as I in return and learn about Japan. Joy Talk said they needed two weeks to match my strengths with the needs of Japanese Board of Education, and then they would get back to me. I was game, yet the second I disconnected from the internet, I began to freak out, and of course called one of my colleagues at 6:45am. She helped bring me back down to reality! My mom is gone for a month, can’t call her, why not another teacher who I was certain was awake! I began to realize I needed to be patient and have trust in the Lord whatever happened! No matter what I simply know the Lord truly knows the desires of my heart Japan or not.
*
Summer Week 3
*********************
I was ready to get away. Went to the beach and enjoyed Santa Barbara. After three days of being there, I received a phone call from my Grandma that she was not doing to great health wise. After many conversations with the family, I was the best candidate to come to the rescue. My roomie and I left the beach early and began the 5 hour quest to Grandma’s house! Basically, the lil lady was dehydrated, not eating, and had a new medical discoveries, I think the medical issues have been there, but now it is named because she willingly went to the doc! She has COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. I felt like a genius, for if it was not for my 5th grade body system knowledge, then I would have not been able to use all the technical body terms with the doc! I could of belted out songs with him…but he was interesting! hehehe I am glad I got to spend time with my Grandma. We cooked sooo much. I know she was feeling better when she wanted me to make her a tri-tip, chicken friend steak, whole made potatoe salad….and the list goes on! And then she wanted another tri-tip, cause the first one was so good! God bless my roomie all the way to heaven, she put her hands to work big time.
*
While at my Grandma’s I was able to check the status of my joblessness on her dial up internet! Haller! Prior to my trip to my Grandma’s, I had to write a grant summary of how the funds were used and heard back from the grantee. A portion of what he said was, “I'm beginning to think you have an awesome team of fifth grade teachers with whom you work. I'm impressed and pleased.” Ahhh sweet….but ok God? What is up? Then I talk with my teammate and realized all the pink slips were taken back….what does that mean for me? Nothing. I am a temp, a year to year contract for the past 3 years, which is what I signed up for. I know! I thought it would get better over time, but I was wrong. My hands are tied along with my principals! I am starting to feel tugged and warred out. There currently are no possibility of me going back, but really who knows! Yikes. Then I get a phone call from my principal who answered many of my questions. Apparently, another principal in West Covina wanted names of teachers who would be quality to be interviewed in her district. I received her name and number and set up a time to interview with her and another human resource dude. I was game. Might as well take the opportunities and see what happens!
*
Summer Week 4
*********************
I got home and decided to email Joy Talk to follow up on my interview with them since it had really been two weeks. By the end of the week I heard back from them and this is what they said:
*
Dear Erin,
Thanks for your e-mail. There is one requirement from the boards of education that we have new contracts through that is holding your employment back at the moment. Because there is elementary school involved to a certain degree and there are no teachers trained in English at Japanese elementary schools at present, these boards of education require all their ALTs to be conversant in Japanese. If, however, another location comes up that does not require this, I will get back in touch with you.
Thanks again for your time recently and hopefully speak to you again soon.
Kind regards
Grant Harbourne
Joytalk Manager
*
There I stand with Joy Talk and the possibility of going to Japan. It is out of my control, as it seems many things in my life, but I can be proactive and I have faith something good will come out of all this!
*
As I am getting back in the swing of things at my home, I started to delete the million messages on my home phone answer machine. Then I realized there were more messages for me to call another district. I connected with Duarte, and basically they wanted me to stop by the next day to fill out an application, then the applications would be delivered to the principal who is hiring. Also I was referred to another person at APU who deals with international teaching. I was to also see her the next day to get information from presentations the international schools had made at APU for the teachers. Sweet!
*
I hung out with a friend from out of town and the roomies pretty late…after everyone went to bed, I decided I should write a cover letter for Duarte and West Covina with appealing details about me considering the drought of CA teacher jobs…went to bed after 2am and then woke up to get ready for an interview with West Covina the next morning.
*
Prior to my interviews, I try to get to know what I am putting myself into, I guess you can say I stalk the schools and district. I realized one of the people who would be in the interview with me from the WC District Office was a person whom was extremely rude to me last year when I interviewed at an APU job fair. He did not want to give me the time of day. Trying to think positively with a second chance for him I tried to not be too biased in the interview.
*
While waiting to interview I connected with the secretary in the DO. Mention grandkids and you make the lady happy! She even shared her tamale recipe with me! Always food!
*
I sat down in the interview and the, lets call him the second chance dude, was blowing his second chance. I do understand it was a blind interview, because the three who were interviewing me had nothing about me except what I gave them, but come on! Second chance dude could have sat so far back that his feet could have made it to his desk, not once made eye contact, and really does not like Glendora, making it very apparent, insulting my experience and teachers. I decided it was unprofessional. The part of the interview I later realized could have blown it for me was when I asked the other dude in the room who he was. I knew of the principal and second chance dude, but the other guy????? I am embarrassed to say, but understand I was getting frustrated, I said, “I’m sorry, I don’t know who you are, are you the sidekick?” Yes, I know, bad, self control…..Processing now, I have to remember my passions, and cannot let others get in the way. I am learning that DO people do not always know really what does happen in the classroom, simply based on the questions that were asked of me. The principal was alright, yet it seemed she wanted to befriend me. I have enough friends! Oh may the feisty McGee come out!
*
From West Covina, I hopped on the freeway and went to Duarte. Sat in there ohhhhh a good hour and filled out an application. Ran into the Superintendent, sat with him for a while, and then he took my info to the principal who was hiring. I guess she had a stack of at least 200 applications to go through.
*
Then I went to APU and got more info on international teaching. After I took the info home and researched the paper work, I am thinking it might be too late to try to apply in another program to go abroad. The door is not completely closed, but I do need to make a few phone calls and emails to have confirmation. I guess my philosophy is I don’t know if I don’t try.
*
Summer Week 5
*********************
Currently, I am in week 5. Yesterday, I received a phone call from West Covina. My heart was confused; I had such a high frustration level with the interview, although I am glad I did it, but of course I thought for sure they did not like me. The secretary wanted to know if I could interview next Monday. I immediately asked if there was another time. That is the time I really did plan a vacation to be out of state. She called back and said there was not a way. We hung up and then I began to think, was I being stupid denying an interview when they are hard to come by? I checked flights out Monday to see if I could change my flight to make it work around the interview. I called the secretary back and she put me on the calendar for next Monday. Then I asked her what the interview was for. Apparently, my information was passed to another principal in West Covina, possibly from the interview last week. I am assuming the interview from last week was practice, and they hired someone else? Monday, the other principal wants to interview me at the cite. The school looks good. The teacher of the year and classified of the year were at the school, so that has to say something….but I will know more after Monday morning! Funny fact she has the same name as two other bosses I’ve had! Serendipity!
*
Seconds, literally, after I hung up with West Covina, the principal from Duarte called who is hiring. She wants me to interview Wednesday. Wednesday I will sit before a panel and they will be introduced to me! I am game, and getting the hang of this whole interview thing…maybe!
*
Tonight, I got another phone call from a fellow colleuge and she told me her story of what she has encountered since March...mentioning as she is has been encoutering change and has had many meetings in the District Office...every time reminding them of what type of teacher I am. My mind is confused and overwhelmed! I thought I had the story of my situation right, but others have different ideas, sadly I am certain I know what I signed up for no matter how disgusting a situation can get.
*
Over the past 5 weeks I have felt and experienced every type of emotion, often wondering if I am sane! But I can honestly say through it all, I have peace. Ever since the beginning of this past school year, when my gut was telling me there was a lot of change brewing, I have had peace and assurance that the future really is not in my hands, but the Lord’s. I know and trust in the Lord. I will take action and wait. I will be still. I will search. I am confident the Fall has great journeys and adventures ahead of me and truly that is what keeps me going. I am prepared, although I don’t have all the answers. I have made no decisions. I am simply leaning on the Lord. And eventually will have to have discernment!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Random Running!
Next week at this time I will have nearly completed running the Pasadena 1/2 marathon! Ha! It is a random event I decided to participate in Friday, with a concrete decision Saturday after a 10 mile long run. I know it may seem nuts, but the ladies I run with twice a week since September and I work well together and thought it would be fun. We have been talking about it, but since the two ladies I run with have families, it was an uncertain event until Friday randomness occurred. I feel pretty good. I am not going into this event completely out of shape, for twice a week I run 5 miles....I have the endurance, accountability, encouragement, and friendship with lots of laughs.....now it is just a fun event for celebrating the continuous running my body has endured. After looking at the website, I think I get to run accross my favorite bridge in Pasadena! It should be fun. When I stop and look back at personal goals I made in September as school started, I am completing one of my goals next weekend! Yippeee!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
I LIED
I have a confession to make. I lied this weekend.
It was God that I found the tire place one day. I would say this fall I met the Good Year peeps. I am always paranoied with my car tires, the sounds they make, etc. One particualr day, I truely kept hearing this flapping sound every time I drove. I was on my way to Oxnard, and thought I really need to pull off the road, and find a place where I can have my tires checked. I got off at Sunflower on the 210. I played the right or left game and eventually found a place. The people were so nice to me. They laughed at me and my paranoya, but put my car on the lift and evaluated each tire carefully. The flapping I heard was a huge plastic seat cover from maybe a car washplace or dealership that was stuck under my car. Fortunatly, I listened to my instinct, for there was a tire that had a screw in it, and they were able to save the tire and take the screw out. The people were nice and never charged me.
After a very scary blow out on the freeway about a year ago, I faithfully get my tires checked along with appropriate air pressure numbers monthly.
Here are some pictures from the scrary moment in my life, where many words came out of my mouth, while Nicole and Markio had no idea what to do with me!
It was God that I found the tire place one day. I would say this fall I met the Good Year peeps. I am always paranoied with my car tires, the sounds they make, etc. One particualr day, I truely kept hearing this flapping sound every time I drove. I was on my way to Oxnard, and thought I really need to pull off the road, and find a place where I can have my tires checked. I got off at Sunflower on the 210. I played the right or left game and eventually found a place. The people were so nice to me. They laughed at me and my paranoya, but put my car on the lift and evaluated each tire carefully. The flapping I heard was a huge plastic seat cover from maybe a car washplace or dealership that was stuck under my car. Fortunatly, I listened to my instinct, for there was a tire that had a screw in it, and they were able to save the tire and take the screw out. The people were nice and never charged me. Over the months, as I faithfully, have gone to get my air pressure/tires checked out, the tire people have begun to reconize me. I, apparently, am a good safety and cautious driver, for they contunually tell me I am the only custumer who comes routinely for air pressure checks as much as I do. =) Honestly, I know I probably could do it myself, but it is one thing my dad always did for me. After months of free service, the tire people reccomended that I get a rotation and alignment of the tires. I agreed, for I knew it had been a while.
Saturday, I went to get the work done. I reminded them that they have treated me so good and that they promised me a "deal". Not long after the car was getting worked on, they called me over and reccommended another service. Because I am nothing near a car expert, I without a hesitation said, "I need to call my boyfriend and see if it is ok". I lied! What is a girl with no makeup, wearing sweats, getting ready to workout, looking like she is in high school, but really closer to 30 supposed to do? I did call Chris, my brother in law, and got advice. The tire guy, repeatedly asked me what my B-friend said and told me to take my time and talk to my B-friend about it! I lied! I confessed, I am forgiven!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Psalm 63
In this Psalm, good old Dave is in the mist of his darkest moment. He is in the desert of Judah after he had a little affair with Bathsheba. In the first part, he is reminiscing of how he thirsted for God….and then it goes on and you can get it. What I like most about the Psalm is it is such a way that we should live our lives….always thirsting more and more for Christ.
Psalm 63
You, God, are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
I thirst for you,
my whole being longs for you,
in a dry and parched land
where there is no water.
I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.
Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.
I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods;
with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
On my bed I remember you;
I think of you through the watches of the night.
Because you are my help,
I sing in the shadow of your wings.
I cling to you;
your right hand upholds me.
Those who seek my life will be destroyed;
they will go down to the depths of the earth.
They will be given over to the sword
and become food for jackals.
But the king will rejoice in God;
all who swear by God will glory in him,
while the mouths of liars will be silenced.
The part that strikes me the most is verse 3. “Your unfailing love is better to me than life itself, how I praise you!
Today this was a Psalm was a good reminder for me. The love of Christ is unfailing….even better than life. It is hard to understand that sometimes for me, but then there are days were I really get it. This week I get it. This week was crazy. Not necessarily for me personally, but for three of my sisters, where there, my heart cries out to God for them. Rose, got a call early in the morning…it ended up that her dad was in a car accident. It involved 6 cars. The guy behind him rear ended him into a flat bed truck. He was instantly killed. Pray for her. God’s love is unfailing. Life is precious. It is a gift. Sheena is on a crazy journey with her dad having two tumor masses removed from his brain. He had an incredible fight though the surgery now is in the battle of brain cancer. Pray for her. God’s love is unfailing. Life is precious. It is a gift. Emily took her dad to the ER this week. He thought he was dieing. It turned out to be major anxiety attacks and stress. Pray for him. God’s love is unfailing. Life is precious. It is a gift. My heart breaks for my sisters, but I am assured and know that God’s love is unfailing. Just as it says in the Psalm, I will praise God as long as I live, where I will lift my hands in his name. I will cling to him as he holds me up with his right hand lifting up my sisters.
Psalm 63
You, God, are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
I thirst for you,
my whole being longs for you,
in a dry and parched land
where there is no water.
I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.
Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.
I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods;
with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
On my bed I remember you;
I think of you through the watches of the night.
Because you are my help,
I sing in the shadow of your wings.
I cling to you;
your right hand upholds me.
Those who seek my life will be destroyed;
they will go down to the depths of the earth.
They will be given over to the sword
and become food for jackals.
But the king will rejoice in God;
all who swear by God will glory in him,
while the mouths of liars will be silenced.
The part that strikes me the most is verse 3. “Your unfailing love is better to me than life itself, how I praise you!
Today this was a Psalm was a good reminder for me. The love of Christ is unfailing….even better than life. It is hard to understand that sometimes for me, but then there are days were I really get it. This week I get it. This week was crazy. Not necessarily for me personally, but for three of my sisters, where there, my heart cries out to God for them. Rose, got a call early in the morning…it ended up that her dad was in a car accident. It involved 6 cars. The guy behind him rear ended him into a flat bed truck. He was instantly killed. Pray for her. God’s love is unfailing. Life is precious. It is a gift. Sheena is on a crazy journey with her dad having two tumor masses removed from his brain. He had an incredible fight though the surgery now is in the battle of brain cancer. Pray for her. God’s love is unfailing. Life is precious. It is a gift. Emily took her dad to the ER this week. He thought he was dieing. It turned out to be major anxiety attacks and stress. Pray for him. God’s love is unfailing. Life is precious. It is a gift. My heart breaks for my sisters, but I am assured and know that God’s love is unfailing. Just as it says in the Psalm, I will praise God as long as I live, where I will lift my hands in his name. I will cling to him as he holds me up with his right hand lifting up my sisters.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Living a Life above Reproach in a Kingdom that is Jungle-Like: Guidance of the MASTER!!!
Unfortunately, I have already maintained to miss two months of my blog (Jamie I hope this post will make up for my lack of obligation to the blogging world for the 5 people who read this!). I can make excuses, but I will make it up with my thoughts and lessons in life over the past couple of months with my typical style!
The Challenge
In mid August, through September (a little into October) I was challenged in how I live my life. I believe I cannot live my life completely for God when there are other things in my life I cannot completely release and clear up with others and even God (an ongoing growing journey in my faith). The challenge was to live completely…no half or even 80% action and get rid of what hinders or gets in the way of my relationship with God. How awesome is life when I live without reserves…when I don't it ultimately puts a damper in my relationships, especially the most important one, my relationship with my God…you know the hottt Jesus in The Passion of the Christ! Hehe…I can do a carpenter! Haller! JK!
The Eagle
For example, I cannot completely worship and commit my life to Christ if I hold resentment, anger, frustrations, un-forgiveness, etc. It is funny….I get a challenge and then it is almost like God wanted to see if I would stick to what I wanted to change and make better. It is like how much better can my relationship with God be if I let the poopie pants thoughts go??? I am not one to typically hold negative emotions too long without talking about it because for some reason I do not function well unless I get ish off my chest when something is wrong. I believe the inner voice is the Holy Spirit, for sure.
But…..One thing, I really have been holding onto is my relationship with my Grandma. I will refer to her as the Eagle. For no legit reason at all, I have been the victim for some reason in her eyes for speaking truth. I had developed anger and major frustrations. In the past, family members would walk in a room and get love and recognition, yet I would do the same thing, and she would physically turn her back away from me. I started to take showers to see if there would be a change…and the results….heheh…That is just one of many examples of how I have been treated in the past, where even other family members have recognized the coldness. Of course, I have tried to talk to the little old lady, but the elder are set in their ways. I began to build resentment and anger more. I began to get so frustrated. I had the solution to stay away from her and if I was with her, I made sure I was never in a room alone with her because I would get criticized for no reason….it was better for me to learn to be quite around the Eagle for when I spoke truth, there was never a common consensus.
The sad thing is I am passionate about the elder. And everyone in my family would be the first to say that I am the biggest family together bonding person within the family. I love working and spending time with the wise aged, listening to the stories of their lives. Before my other great grandparents and grandmother died, I would call each every week and chat…with the Eagle I struggle with that, like I said I have to be careful. With my challenge I began to feel convicted, I decided to become rubber and let the Eagle’s attitude toward me bounce off me.
I think in life, we are called to forgive, even sometimes when the person is not at a state to hear it, the only person I have full control over is me, and I can change me and my attitude with an unspoken forgiveness. I know I was able to really do this and feel freedom, for recently, I have spent so much time with the Eagle and really enjoyed it. It is something about forgiving someone when they never will understand the hurt and damage they did to you yet, you love them and release the knot trenching feelings in your stomach…and release! I am a dork, still…and my mom and sis laugh at me…but I do have a self talk with myself when I get ready to see the Eagle….I say out loud to myself… “I am a good person, I am a good person…I have integrity” Funny because positive self talk is one of the strategies I teach my students in character ed …I guess you are never to old to learn! The eagle is forgiven. I had a blast with her over Christmas...it was amazing!
The Cheetahs
When I was in high school, there was a motto constantly mentioned…LIVING A LIFE ABOVE REPROACH. Along with sticking with my challenge to live and get rid of hindrances which effect me in whom I am, especially in my relationship with God, I really have been tested. The idea of living a life above reproach to me means to stick to my personal philosophy of a Christian life, even when others criticize me or question me when I really know I am doing right. I know I am stubborn, but I also know when I am stubborn, and I feel that characteristics of stubbornness are not the issue.
The past trimester, my motto, has taken more into play then it ever has in the category of my career. I understand parents (for now I will refer to them as the Cheetahs) think their children are gems. I value their children as gems too, but this year I have had cheetahs strongly disagree with me when I have discussed the progress of their child, when there are multiple pieces of evidence that back up how their child is progressing! It is sad, for it is almost like some cheetahs have wanted me to go against my integrity to make their child glow beyond what they really are like. As a result, there are times this year that I have felt like a piece of raw red meat, and the Cheetahs are after me. It is not horribly bad and does not change how I treat my students and love them individually, but it is a situation I have not yet encountered to this effect. I really have always felt strongly as I entered the teaching profession that no matter what, I must maintain my integrity, respect, and faith as a person without compromise. I have been and will continue to cling to living a life above reproach!
The Motha Bee
When I live a life where I trust and rely on God without hindrances, it creates a stronger relationship in my life between God and me. I have never had a security in my profession. Part of me is really ok with knowing I can have the freedom to move around and not be settled in a particular place and level to teach, but the years have go on, and I have built and made relationships. I really love what and where I am at more and more. It is something about having students I have had over the years come back and visit and hang. A rewarding part of my job is the trust developed over a year with a child becomes a trust of a lifetime, for the students I have had come back and are so vulnerable and still have that sparkle in their eye that I adore!
The Motha Bee in a hive controls how the hive is ran and when the honey in the hive is orchestrated….the Motha Bee is definitely in charge! I guess my district and the governor is the Motha Bee that really controls my security. This year my approach is different, for my relationship with God is better, which makes me have a stronger peace. Having a job is something to always pray for and if it is somewhere else I pray that God would make it an easy transition and an obvious door to go through. As of now, I really do not know what the Motha Bee is up to…but I have a feeling over the next couple of months the rope will unravel! I am trusting God, not letting hindrances get in the way.
The Lion’s Courage
Emily is a dear friend of mine whom I think emulates living a life above reproach better than anyone I know with the courage of a lion. Emily is adored by anyone whom meets her. She has this incredible glow which portrays her passionate life determination and goals. I cannot remember her email contact information off the top of my head, but I know hotness and rad are definitely in the address! hehehe I had the privilege to go and be Emily’s side kick in Oahu as she was the key note speaker in various events with Ambry Genetics and the Mauli Ola Foundation where we met some of the most genuine people. What an honor it was to go witness how Emily lives her life in an atmosphere different with morals and a demonstrated God honoring life.
The Oahu adventure was an incredible trip where many were awakened to the daily life of Emily with CF not only through her example, but living in a house with the Mauli Ola crew did it. We were in an environment where daily, many lost control of themselves through various addictions. For various medical reasons and purely life choices, Emily truly was an example obvious of someone who lived her life different, but not in a threatening way at all to those around her…. and everyone eventually noticed, with the up most respect for Emily. Emily was so sweet and as they would say “she’s EPIC”. Over the period of a week, a group of people changed and were impacted by simply living within the same parameters of Emily…watching her daily regimented life depending routines, not once complaining as she stopped when it was time to do meds regardless of the location or event. What an example. Lion of Courage.
The Dolphins
As I have had multiple adventures to the beach I have witnesses how dolphins travel…they swim in packs and it is such a reflection of friendships. I am so blessed by the friendships in my life. It is purely incredible.
I made a big purchase with Sheena and Lena. We are now members of the Disney family for a year. I have enjoyed going to the world of magic and have so many giggles. For my mom’s birthday my sis and I got her a pass too. It is even more magical going to Disneyland with a 3 year old!
I guess as I think about my personal challenges and decisions in my relationship with the Lord, my peeps are too experiencing the same. I would say over the past couple of months I have been able to travel and do flips like Flipper with my pals….again watching how they are following the guidance of the Master!
It was so fun to travel with Lena and see the Krill crew’s OREGON pad. I entered the largest book store I think I have ever entered…and possibly read about half of them! hehe The artistic character of God is all over Oregon. The fall colors were pretty much incredible. I kicked myself in the butt, because I forgot my camera at school, so I only have the memories with me. Ami is growing so much and is a little miracle. I am always amazed as I teach how the body grows and functions…..uhhhh… how can one not believe in God…our bodies are so intricately made in how they work, and to watch a child grow just makes it even more exciting for me cause it is the work of God!
From Oregon, I had the random opportunity to visit the most beautiful people in Austin. They might be in the top HOT people of 2008 magazine (bikini edition). It was incredible to witness again how two sista are completely growing in their relationship with the Lord as they are putting their faith and passion 100% together and watching God provide in abundant ways. I am sooo proud.
After going to San Diego….Nikki too….. same story, as her hubby is doing many missions. The strength and her relationship with God is sooo strong. Amen. Seriously!
It is so reassuring many of my friends are living a life with quest for the Lord!
The New Challenge
January brings in a new year. I don’t normally make resolutions, but this year I am taking with me the lessons that began and have been enhanced since the middle of August. I am on a mission to continually search for what can make my relationship with Christ even better, as I continue to reflect on what might be holding me back. I really think I might have to make post-it notes everywhere to remind myself to live a life above reproach, but I am so blessed, for I have incredible peeptasticness of friends around me that encourage like none other.
Of Course the Random Non-Related Part
My sis and I are beginning weight lifting training. We are becoming the Biggest Loser Sisters. Look for us on channel 52653 at 5:00 O’Clock every night. On top of my running with my teacher pals before school, my sis and I are going to begin a weight lifting challenge and accountability toward one another. I am pretty motivated. I am ready to be healthier and six packed! Ha! Not sure that really will happen, but I can try…I can draw it on! Oh, that would be the day. I am serious though, I think in about a month my bootie might loose a little bit of it’s shape or maybe my big toe will get toned through all this! Ha!
The Challenge
In mid August, through September (a little into October) I was challenged in how I live my life. I believe I cannot live my life completely for God when there are other things in my life I cannot completely release and clear up with others and even God (an ongoing growing journey in my faith). The challenge was to live completely…no half or even 80% action and get rid of what hinders or gets in the way of my relationship with God. How awesome is life when I live without reserves…when I don't it ultimately puts a damper in my relationships, especially the most important one, my relationship with my God…you know the hottt Jesus in The Passion of the Christ! Hehe…I can do a carpenter! Haller! JK!
The Eagle
For example, I cannot completely worship and commit my life to Christ if I hold resentment, anger, frustrations, un-forgiveness, etc. It is funny….I get a challenge and then it is almost like God wanted to see if I would stick to what I wanted to change and make better. It is like how much better can my relationship with God be if I let the poopie pants thoughts go??? I am not one to typically hold negative emotions too long without talking about it because for some reason I do not function well unless I get ish off my chest when something is wrong. I believe the inner voice is the Holy Spirit, for sure.
But…..One thing, I really have been holding onto is my relationship with my Grandma. I will refer to her as the Eagle. For no legit reason at all, I have been the victim for some reason in her eyes for speaking truth. I had developed anger and major frustrations. In the past, family members would walk in a room and get love and recognition, yet I would do the same thing, and she would physically turn her back away from me. I started to take showers to see if there would be a change…and the results….heheh…That is just one of many examples of how I have been treated in the past, where even other family members have recognized the coldness. Of course, I have tried to talk to the little old lady, but the elder are set in their ways. I began to build resentment and anger more. I began to get so frustrated. I had the solution to stay away from her and if I was with her, I made sure I was never in a room alone with her because I would get criticized for no reason….it was better for me to learn to be quite around the Eagle for when I spoke truth, there was never a common consensus.
The sad thing is I am passionate about the elder. And everyone in my family would be the first to say that I am the biggest family together bonding person within the family. I love working and spending time with the wise aged, listening to the stories of their lives. Before my other great grandparents and grandmother died, I would call each every week and chat…with the Eagle I struggle with that, like I said I have to be careful. With my challenge I began to feel convicted, I decided to become rubber and let the Eagle’s attitude toward me bounce off me.
I think in life, we are called to forgive, even sometimes when the person is not at a state to hear it, the only person I have full control over is me, and I can change me and my attitude with an unspoken forgiveness. I know I was able to really do this and feel freedom, for recently, I have spent so much time with the Eagle and really enjoyed it. It is something about forgiving someone when they never will understand the hurt and damage they did to you yet, you love them and release the knot trenching feelings in your stomach…and release! I am a dork, still…and my mom and sis laugh at me…but I do have a self talk with myself when I get ready to see the Eagle….I say out loud to myself… “I am a good person, I am a good person…I have integrity” Funny because positive self talk is one of the strategies I teach my students in character ed …I guess you are never to old to learn! The eagle is forgiven. I had a blast with her over Christmas...it was amazing!
The Cheetahs
When I was in high school, there was a motto constantly mentioned…LIVING A LIFE ABOVE REPROACH. Along with sticking with my challenge to live and get rid of hindrances which effect me in whom I am, especially in my relationship with God, I really have been tested. The idea of living a life above reproach to me means to stick to my personal philosophy of a Christian life, even when others criticize me or question me when I really know I am doing right. I know I am stubborn, but I also know when I am stubborn, and I feel that characteristics of stubbornness are not the issue.
The past trimester, my motto, has taken more into play then it ever has in the category of my career. I understand parents (for now I will refer to them as the Cheetahs) think their children are gems. I value their children as gems too, but this year I have had cheetahs strongly disagree with me when I have discussed the progress of their child, when there are multiple pieces of evidence that back up how their child is progressing! It is sad, for it is almost like some cheetahs have wanted me to go against my integrity to make their child glow beyond what they really are like. As a result, there are times this year that I have felt like a piece of raw red meat, and the Cheetahs are after me. It is not horribly bad and does not change how I treat my students and love them individually, but it is a situation I have not yet encountered to this effect. I really have always felt strongly as I entered the teaching profession that no matter what, I must maintain my integrity, respect, and faith as a person without compromise. I have been and will continue to cling to living a life above reproach!
The Motha Bee
When I live a life where I trust and rely on God without hindrances, it creates a stronger relationship in my life between God and me. I have never had a security in my profession. Part of me is really ok with knowing I can have the freedom to move around and not be settled in a particular place and level to teach, but the years have go on, and I have built and made relationships. I really love what and where I am at more and more. It is something about having students I have had over the years come back and visit and hang. A rewarding part of my job is the trust developed over a year with a child becomes a trust of a lifetime, for the students I have had come back and are so vulnerable and still have that sparkle in their eye that I adore!
The Motha Bee in a hive controls how the hive is ran and when the honey in the hive is orchestrated….the Motha Bee is definitely in charge! I guess my district and the governor is the Motha Bee that really controls my security. This year my approach is different, for my relationship with God is better, which makes me have a stronger peace. Having a job is something to always pray for and if it is somewhere else I pray that God would make it an easy transition and an obvious door to go through. As of now, I really do not know what the Motha Bee is up to…but I have a feeling over the next couple of months the rope will unravel! I am trusting God, not letting hindrances get in the way.
The Lion’s Courage
Emily is a dear friend of mine whom I think emulates living a life above reproach better than anyone I know with the courage of a lion. Emily is adored by anyone whom meets her. She has this incredible glow which portrays her passionate life determination and goals. I cannot remember her email contact information off the top of my head, but I know hotness and rad are definitely in the address! hehehe I had the privilege to go and be Emily’s side kick in Oahu as she was the key note speaker in various events with Ambry Genetics and the Mauli Ola Foundation where we met some of the most genuine people. What an honor it was to go witness how Emily lives her life in an atmosphere different with morals and a demonstrated God honoring life.
The Oahu adventure was an incredible trip where many were awakened to the daily life of Emily with CF not only through her example, but living in a house with the Mauli Ola crew did it. We were in an environment where daily, many lost control of themselves through various addictions. For various medical reasons and purely life choices, Emily truly was an example obvious of someone who lived her life different, but not in a threatening way at all to those around her…. and everyone eventually noticed, with the up most respect for Emily. Emily was so sweet and as they would say “she’s EPIC”. Over the period of a week, a group of people changed and were impacted by simply living within the same parameters of Emily…watching her daily regimented life depending routines, not once complaining as she stopped when it was time to do meds regardless of the location or event. What an example. Lion of Courage.
The Dolphins
As I have had multiple adventures to the beach I have witnesses how dolphins travel…they swim in packs and it is such a reflection of friendships. I am so blessed by the friendships in my life. It is purely incredible.
I made a big purchase with Sheena and Lena. We are now members of the Disney family for a year. I have enjoyed going to the world of magic and have so many giggles. For my mom’s birthday my sis and I got her a pass too. It is even more magical going to Disneyland with a 3 year old!
I guess as I think about my personal challenges and decisions in my relationship with the Lord, my peeps are too experiencing the same. I would say over the past couple of months I have been able to travel and do flips like Flipper with my pals….again watching how they are following the guidance of the Master!
It was so fun to travel with Lena and see the Krill crew’s OREGON pad. I entered the largest book store I think I have ever entered…and possibly read about half of them! hehe The artistic character of God is all over Oregon. The fall colors were pretty much incredible. I kicked myself in the butt, because I forgot my camera at school, so I only have the memories with me. Ami is growing so much and is a little miracle. I am always amazed as I teach how the body grows and functions…..uhhhh… how can one not believe in God…our bodies are so intricately made in how they work, and to watch a child grow just makes it even more exciting for me cause it is the work of God!
From Oregon, I had the random opportunity to visit the most beautiful people in Austin. They might be in the top HOT people of 2008 magazine (bikini edition). It was incredible to witness again how two sista are completely growing in their relationship with the Lord as they are putting their faith and passion 100% together and watching God provide in abundant ways. I am sooo proud.
After going to San Diego….Nikki too….. same story, as her hubby is doing many missions. The strength and her relationship with God is sooo strong. Amen. Seriously!
It is so reassuring many of my friends are living a life with quest for the Lord!
The New Challenge
January brings in a new year. I don’t normally make resolutions, but this year I am taking with me the lessons that began and have been enhanced since the middle of August. I am on a mission to continually search for what can make my relationship with Christ even better, as I continue to reflect on what might be holding me back. I really think I might have to make post-it notes everywhere to remind myself to live a life above reproach, but I am so blessed, for I have incredible peeptasticness of friends around me that encourage like none other.
Of Course the Random Non-Related Part
My sis and I are beginning weight lifting training. We are becoming the Biggest Loser Sisters. Look for us on channel 52653 at 5:00 O’Clock every night. On top of my running with my teacher pals before school, my sis and I are going to begin a weight lifting challenge and accountability toward one another. I am pretty motivated. I am ready to be healthier and six packed! Ha! Not sure that really will happen, but I can try…I can draw it on! Oh, that would be the day. I am serious though, I think in about a month my bootie might loose a little bit of it’s shape or maybe my big toe will get toned through all this! Ha!
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