Sunday, January 30, 2011 Blessing #268
“Laughter and tears are meant to turn the wheels of the same machinery of sensibility; one is wind-power, and the other water-power; that is all” Oliver Wendell Holmes
I've had better days--we are so busy, and Trey and I feel overwhelmed. He's prepping to lead a trip of first-timers to Haiti, and I have just crossed into the VERY PREGNANT place--where I'm aching, awkward, and anxious. So, this morning, I just let the water works go. We stayed at a friend's beach house once and saw a pillow that said "Salt water is good for what ails you-whether you cry it, sweat it, or swim in it." I believe it.
There is a lot of emotional heaviness that goes with being a teacher, some more with being a mother, and some more with being a wife. Throw sleepless nights and pregnancy hormones into the mix, and you've got a recipe for a good cry. So where's the blessing? How 'bout this: Did you know scientists believe that crying lowers stress hormone levels and boosts immunity and improves mood? Think about it--why else would evolution have selected for this uniquely human trait? There must be a practical benefit to our health and wellness--and I bet this is at least part of it.
So, today I'm blessed to be able to cry--then see things in a new light.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
A Waddling Contradiction
Saturday, January 29, 2011 Blessing #267
You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely suggests that you think she's pregnant unless you can see an actual baby emerging from her at that moment. ~Dave Barry, "Things That It Took Me 50 Years to Learn"
Before you were conceived I wanted you
Before you were born I loved you
Before you were here an hour I would die for you
This is the miracle of Mother's Love.
-- Maureen Hawkins
Oh I love Saturdays! We got up early to have breakfast with Daddy this morning-The kids are playing outside (yea Sunshine!), the laundry is going, the kitchen is clean, and now I'm sitting with my feet up. It is fabulous. I feel productive and rested all at the same time--and I know it will last until I have to get up to go potty. We have a lot to look forward to today--we get to see Chip play basketball and then we get to pick up Henslee's crib from Jean's house.
My feet are swelling a bit, my pelvis has just started aching, and it is hard to imagine that I will be doing this 4 more weeks (and while starting a 2nd job? I'm looney)--but at the same time, I'm so excited! A crib! A closet and dresser-each full of baby clothes-and it will be no time before I'm rubbing peach fuzz on my little girls head--and kissing her toes!
You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely suggests that you think she's pregnant unless you can see an actual baby emerging from her at that moment. ~Dave Barry, "Things That It Took Me 50 Years to Learn"
Before you were conceived I wanted you
Before you were born I loved you
Before you were here an hour I would die for you
This is the miracle of Mother's Love.
-- Maureen Hawkins
Oh I love Saturdays! We got up early to have breakfast with Daddy this morning-The kids are playing outside (yea Sunshine!), the laundry is going, the kitchen is clean, and now I'm sitting with my feet up. It is fabulous. I feel productive and rested all at the same time--and I know it will last until I have to get up to go potty. We have a lot to look forward to today--we get to see Chip play basketball and then we get to pick up Henslee's crib from Jean's house.
My feet are swelling a bit, my pelvis has just started aching, and it is hard to imagine that I will be doing this 4 more weeks (and while starting a 2nd job? I'm looney)--but at the same time, I'm so excited! A crib! A closet and dresser-each full of baby clothes-and it will be no time before I'm rubbing peach fuzz on my little girls head--and kissing her toes!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Down for The Count
Friday, January 28, 2011 Blessing #266
I have to look backwards--I attended the Upper School Talent Show at Athens Academy last night and left amazed at the talent of our student body (and with the biggest ankles I've had yet--no more 15 hour days for me!). There were singing and dancing acts, and the program was punctuated with senior comedic skits. I was impersonated in one, and it was a riot! Right down to the pregnant waddle! I am just so blessed to work with these kids.
As far as today goes, it is Friday and it is about time! I think between the snow week and the MLK Holiday, I have forgotten how to work 5 days in a row. The kids might have forgotten too. Chip and Katie were exhausted when I picked them up and hardly said a word on the way home. As soon as we walked in the house I got horizontal on the couch and I stayed there till bed time. Trey took the kids to the dollar movie, and I wanted to go, but I just didn't have it in me. I was in bed by 8:30pm and didn't even stand up long enough to fix myself supper.
So, there's just no way around it--I'm really pregnant--33 weeks plus a few days, I think, and today I am blessed that I have a comfortable safe place to rest, and a family who loves and supports me and this new Baby already!
I have to look backwards--I attended the Upper School Talent Show at Athens Academy last night and left amazed at the talent of our student body (and with the biggest ankles I've had yet--no more 15 hour days for me!). There were singing and dancing acts, and the program was punctuated with senior comedic skits. I was impersonated in one, and it was a riot! Right down to the pregnant waddle! I am just so blessed to work with these kids.
As far as today goes, it is Friday and it is about time! I think between the snow week and the MLK Holiday, I have forgotten how to work 5 days in a row. The kids might have forgotten too. Chip and Katie were exhausted when I picked them up and hardly said a word on the way home. As soon as we walked in the house I got horizontal on the couch and I stayed there till bed time. Trey took the kids to the dollar movie, and I wanted to go, but I just didn't have it in me. I was in bed by 8:30pm and didn't even stand up long enough to fix myself supper.
So, there's just no way around it--I'm really pregnant--33 weeks plus a few days, I think, and today I am blessed that I have a comfortable safe place to rest, and a family who loves and supports me and this new Baby already!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Eggs, Grits, Haiti, and the Little Things
Thursday, January 27, 2011 Blessing #265
This morning the kids and I got up extra early for a special breakfast at Waffle House. We do this about once a semester and they love it! It was fabulous (and I didn't even mind the waitress telling me not to worry cause there was no way I was carrying this baby more than another week--I mean I just thought--woman bring me some eggs and grits!). We were talking about Daddy's upcoming trip to Haiti, and Chip says to Katie, "Katie, can you believe that in Haiti most kids don't get to eat breakfast?" What is there to add to that? Surely you see the blessing in the gentle spirit and awareness that this boy possesses. What a gift from God he is.
In other news--I left school during planning to grocery shop b/c the last 2 nights I just couldn't do it. I'm getting to the point where my feet and ankles are achy and a bit swollen at night--and I just can't jump up and buy groceries, load groceries, unload groceries, and put groceries away. So, when I get home today the house will be straight (Gloria comes!!) and the fridge and pantry will be full. Funny how the little things can add such a spring to my step.
Thank God for breakfast, Chip's insight, and the little things.
This morning the kids and I got up extra early for a special breakfast at Waffle House. We do this about once a semester and they love it! It was fabulous (and I didn't even mind the waitress telling me not to worry cause there was no way I was carrying this baby more than another week--I mean I just thought--woman bring me some eggs and grits!). We were talking about Daddy's upcoming trip to Haiti, and Chip says to Katie, "Katie, can you believe that in Haiti most kids don't get to eat breakfast?" What is there to add to that? Surely you see the blessing in the gentle spirit and awareness that this boy possesses. What a gift from God he is.
In other news--I left school during planning to grocery shop b/c the last 2 nights I just couldn't do it. I'm getting to the point where my feet and ankles are achy and a bit swollen at night--and I just can't jump up and buy groceries, load groceries, unload groceries, and put groceries away. So, when I get home today the house will be straight (Gloria comes!!) and the fridge and pantry will be full. Funny how the little things can add such a spring to my step.
Thank God for breakfast, Chip's insight, and the little things.
Stamping out Ignorance and Apathy...Except when I don't.
Wednesday, January 26. 2011 Blessing #264
This was a doozey. Today I left school feeling a bit defeated. The kids had been working on a project and 2 classes did top notch work. The other one--not so much. They didn't seem into the assignment, they didn't seem to take it seriously, and it was basically a crash and burn teaching moment. Even worse, it came at the end of a tough day. Oh, don't worry---I know that I only have these moments every now and then, so I'm not throwing in the towel in the War Against Ignorance And Apathy, but I do feel like I lost a battle today. (For years I've always said I'm off to stamp out ignorance and apathy on the way to work or class--today it stamped me right back!) I'll rally--I'll pull up my bootstraps and refuse to back down and all will be well. I just think it is important for the world--well at least my illustrious audience (of about 6 folks?)--to understand how hard it is to be a teacher--we really put our heart and soul into something, we go to the mattresses (Godfather reference) for the kids, we believe in them even when they may not give us reason to and sometimes they disappoint us. The hardest part is the good teachers don't see that as a shortcoming in the kids, but as a shortcoming in their teaching efforts. We go home feeling like someone has kicked our dog. And, then, by golly, we shake it off, we head back in and we try harder.
So, today--I'm blessed that these moments are few and far between. I am blessed that after I pour salt on my wounds I will try harder, not expect less than their best, and ultimately be victorious in the War Against Ignorance and Apathy.
This was a doozey. Today I left school feeling a bit defeated. The kids had been working on a project and 2 classes did top notch work. The other one--not so much. They didn't seem into the assignment, they didn't seem to take it seriously, and it was basically a crash and burn teaching moment. Even worse, it came at the end of a tough day. Oh, don't worry---I know that I only have these moments every now and then, so I'm not throwing in the towel in the War Against Ignorance And Apathy, but I do feel like I lost a battle today. (For years I've always said I'm off to stamp out ignorance and apathy on the way to work or class--today it stamped me right back!) I'll rally--I'll pull up my bootstraps and refuse to back down and all will be well. I just think it is important for the world--well at least my illustrious audience (of about 6 folks?)--to understand how hard it is to be a teacher--we really put our heart and soul into something, we go to the mattresses (Godfather reference) for the kids, we believe in them even when they may not give us reason to and sometimes they disappoint us. The hardest part is the good teachers don't see that as a shortcoming in the kids, but as a shortcoming in their teaching efforts. We go home feeling like someone has kicked our dog. And, then, by golly, we shake it off, we head back in and we try harder.
So, today--I'm blessed that these moments are few and far between. I am blessed that after I pour salt on my wounds I will try harder, not expect less than their best, and ultimately be victorious in the War Against Ignorance and Apathy.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
5 is the number.........
Tuesday January 25, 2011 Blessing #263
I finally got back to yoga today-and it was fabulous. I go through the days without really noticing how my posture and gait change with this pregnancy--but I felt much better after some focused stretching and breathing. Yoga is all about noticing and being thankful for your body--and boy am I thankful. This body is growing a miracle.
So, 5 is the number. Today 5 people made comments about just how pregnant I'm looking. These are not 5 people who I am particularly close with--but nonetheless they felt comfortable assuring me there was NO WAY I could make it to my due date. Really? I would say they just don't get it--but these are women who have had babies-a few of them recently!
Now, I love being pregnant and I love my belly--so I'm not one of those who run to the bathroom and boo-hoo when folks point out the size of it. In fact, I'm super proud of it! However, I have friends who do get emotional about such comments and I hereby vow not to forget that post pregnancy.
Today I am blessed with yoga and blessed to be thankful for and not ashamed of my body!
I finally got back to yoga today-and it was fabulous. I go through the days without really noticing how my posture and gait change with this pregnancy--but I felt much better after some focused stretching and breathing. Yoga is all about noticing and being thankful for your body--and boy am I thankful. This body is growing a miracle.
So, 5 is the number. Today 5 people made comments about just how pregnant I'm looking. These are not 5 people who I am particularly close with--but nonetheless they felt comfortable assuring me there was NO WAY I could make it to my due date. Really? I would say they just don't get it--but these are women who have had babies-a few of them recently!
Now, I love being pregnant and I love my belly--so I'm not one of those who run to the bathroom and boo-hoo when folks point out the size of it. In fact, I'm super proud of it! However, I have friends who do get emotional about such comments and I hereby vow not to forget that post pregnancy.
Today I am blessed with yoga and blessed to be thankful for and not ashamed of my body!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Just Thankful for the Work
Monday January 24, 2011 Blessing #262
I get paid tonight at midnight. Thank the Lord--the time between December and January paychecks is horrible! I got paid December 17th as we headed into break, and tonight will be the first paycheck since. Every year I try to prepare for it-but it seems there is always some type of unanticipated expense leading to a shortfall.
But who am I to complain, right? I have a job--in fact, for a bit this year, I will have two. I know that not everyone is so lucky in this economy. So I'm resolving to stop complaining about getting paid once a month (or blue moon, in this case) and just be glad for the work. Just having work is so lucky--and when you add that I love my work, it seems I am enjoying more than my fair share of good fortune!
I get paid tonight at midnight. Thank the Lord--the time between December and January paychecks is horrible! I got paid December 17th as we headed into break, and tonight will be the first paycheck since. Every year I try to prepare for it-but it seems there is always some type of unanticipated expense leading to a shortfall.
But who am I to complain, right? I have a job--in fact, for a bit this year, I will have two. I know that not everyone is so lucky in this economy. So I'm resolving to stop complaining about getting paid once a month (or blue moon, in this case) and just be glad for the work. Just having work is so lucky--and when you add that I love my work, it seems I am enjoying more than my fair share of good fortune!
Monday, January 24, 2011
What Consumes You?
Sunday January 23, 2011 Blessing #261
What a busy day! We were up early to get Chip to my sister, Jean's. He rode with her to the farm for Payton's 11th birthday--I can't believe my nephew is 11! Trey, Katie, and I headed to Sunday School and church, stayed late to vote on church business, went to get Katie's scientist costume for her upcoming play, and to shop for ovens at Home Depot. When we finally came home, we got the laundry finished up, lunches packed, etc, for the school day to come.
It was all wonderful though--Chip had a fabulous time with Jean, Denny and their 5 boys--he caught a monstrous catfish in the pond. Our message at church was about turning away from what consumes us and keeps us apart from God--it resonated with me in a big way, so that was a tremendous blessing. Katie loved having us to herself for the day--and her costume is precious. We did get the laundry done and put away and the house ready for the week, and then I fell into bed about 8:30--it was fabulous. Oh, I still didn't sleep all night, but I needed to get to bed early and I accomplished it.
So--not a particularly red letter Sunday, I guess--but still there was much accomplished and much for which to be thankful. As for what consumes me--I have reflected on it all day. In a word--I think it is anxiety. I am anxious that my life is too good to be true-that we will never feel financially secure-that my children's or our health will be compromised-that Trey and I don't have enough time together--I could go on. But, I need to not focus on those things--I need to focus on being thankful and being content with my life. I need to focus on letting go of my need to feel in control (what an illusion, anyway!), and I need to praise God everyday for the blessings in my life. I think through this exercise I have shown that there are many.
What a busy day! We were up early to get Chip to my sister, Jean's. He rode with her to the farm for Payton's 11th birthday--I can't believe my nephew is 11! Trey, Katie, and I headed to Sunday School and church, stayed late to vote on church business, went to get Katie's scientist costume for her upcoming play, and to shop for ovens at Home Depot. When we finally came home, we got the laundry finished up, lunches packed, etc, for the school day to come.
It was all wonderful though--Chip had a fabulous time with Jean, Denny and their 5 boys--he caught a monstrous catfish in the pond. Our message at church was about turning away from what consumes us and keeps us apart from God--it resonated with me in a big way, so that was a tremendous blessing. Katie loved having us to herself for the day--and her costume is precious. We did get the laundry done and put away and the house ready for the week, and then I fell into bed about 8:30--it was fabulous. Oh, I still didn't sleep all night, but I needed to get to bed early and I accomplished it.
So--not a particularly red letter Sunday, I guess--but still there was much accomplished and much for which to be thankful. As for what consumes me--I have reflected on it all day. In a word--I think it is anxiety. I am anxious that my life is too good to be true-that we will never feel financially secure-that my children's or our health will be compromised-that Trey and I don't have enough time together--I could go on. But, I need to not focus on those things--I need to focus on being thankful and being content with my life. I need to focus on letting go of my need to feel in control (what an illusion, anyway!), and I need to praise God everyday for the blessings in my life. I think through this exercise I have shown that there are many.
Safety First
Saturday January 22, 2011 Blessing #260
We spent the day at home while our new security system was installed. I suppose it is the mother bear hormones coupled with Trey's upcoming trip to Haiti that have me spooked. We've been in this house 6.5 years, and I have never felt the need for an alarm-but pregnancy #3 did me in. It is a wonderful birthday present to Henslee (March ????) and me (March 22) from my parents--and I am thankful.
The next items on my list are a new fire extinguisher and 3 new escape ladders for the upstairs rooms. My nesting isn't just about closet cleaning--but also about insuring safety. So, today I'm thankful for my protective instincts--and that my family is helping us too! Also, I am worn out--so it was the perfect day for me to be house bound with my feet up!
We spent the day at home while our new security system was installed. I suppose it is the mother bear hormones coupled with Trey's upcoming trip to Haiti that have me spooked. We've been in this house 6.5 years, and I have never felt the need for an alarm-but pregnancy #3 did me in. It is a wonderful birthday present to Henslee (March ????) and me (March 22) from my parents--and I am thankful.
The next items on my list are a new fire extinguisher and 3 new escape ladders for the upstairs rooms. My nesting isn't just about closet cleaning--but also about insuring safety. So, today I'm thankful for my protective instincts--and that my family is helping us too! Also, I am worn out--so it was the perfect day for me to be house bound with my feet up!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
More Good News
Friday, January 29, 2011 Blessing #259
Visited the Dr. today--Henslee and I finally made up our visit from the snow storm. She is doing fine--and so am I. God willing, we'll just keep right on doing fine until she decides to make her entrance-probably about 6 weeks from now. I don't want to miss anymore work than necessary--especially since I'm already planning on taking a bit of time without pay after she arrives. Plus, I have important work to do with my students and I am running out of time!
We listened to her heartbeat--it is the most soothing sound in the world. I'm very pregnant-but other than ridiculously frequent trips to the potty and a hard time getting comfortable at night, I am as happy as a pig in slop. I just love to be pregnant. There is peace about me when I'm pregnant or nursing. I know that is it is OK-in fact necessary-for me to focus on home and family. Pregnacy just brings into focus priorities--reminds me of what is really important, and makes me feel like I am assisting in a miracle.
So, today-I acknowledge how blessed I am to be able to carry another child--and to enjoy a sense of peace and purpose that grounds me.
Visited the Dr. today--Henslee and I finally made up our visit from the snow storm. She is doing fine--and so am I. God willing, we'll just keep right on doing fine until she decides to make her entrance-probably about 6 weeks from now. I don't want to miss anymore work than necessary--especially since I'm already planning on taking a bit of time without pay after she arrives. Plus, I have important work to do with my students and I am running out of time!
We listened to her heartbeat--it is the most soothing sound in the world. I'm very pregnant-but other than ridiculously frequent trips to the potty and a hard time getting comfortable at night, I am as happy as a pig in slop. I just love to be pregnant. There is peace about me when I'm pregnant or nursing. I know that is it is OK-in fact necessary-for me to focus on home and family. Pregnacy just brings into focus priorities--reminds me of what is really important, and makes me feel like I am assisting in a miracle.
So, today-I acknowledge how blessed I am to be able to carry another child--and to enjoy a sense of peace and purpose that grounds me.
Disney Dreaming--Together!
Thursday January 20, 2011 Blessing #258
Another busy, but great day. Katie attended a birthday party at Pump it Up and Chip and I got to hang at home this evening, just the two of us. That one on one time with the kids is so special--and I know it is about to be really hard to come by. Anyway, Chip found a penny, on heads no less, on the floorboard of the car. He couldn't wait to come in and listen to it hit the bottom of our "Disney Jar."
Now, I'm not sure what Suze Ormann would think about our Disney jar full of change that isn't earning interest--but I believe there is value in saving for something special as a family. I think it is helpful that the kids can see the products of our efforts too--rather than having the money stashed in a bank somewhere. This is just an old, empty Crystal Springs Jug (made cute by my crafty sister, Jean) and we are not any where close to filling it. We've been working on it for at least a couple of years--and we can see progress, it is just slow.
But just imagine when we really take that trip to Disney--each member of the family will have contributed to making it happen--and each one will feel important. Today I am thankful that we are dreaming and working together.
Another busy, but great day. Katie attended a birthday party at Pump it Up and Chip and I got to hang at home this evening, just the two of us. That one on one time with the kids is so special--and I know it is about to be really hard to come by. Anyway, Chip found a penny, on heads no less, on the floorboard of the car. He couldn't wait to come in and listen to it hit the bottom of our "Disney Jar."
But just imagine when we really take that trip to Disney--each member of the family will have contributed to making it happen--and each one will feel important. Today I am thankful that we are dreaming and working together.
A Way of Working Out
I've had some issues getting on internet at home.....so I'm going to catch up now. Seems to be working!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011 Blessing #257
I think I have mentioned here that Wednesdays are my busiest days. My planning periods don't meet and it feels like I hardly have time to go to the potty--lately that really is an issue, since I have to go all the time. Really, I can't believe I've ever complained about not having time. When I am able to function without having to go to the bathroom every 15 minutes, I think I will amaze myself with all I accomplish!
Anyway, it has been an adjustment, going from PJs all day during the snowcation to up at 5, ready at 6, waking the kids, packing lunches, etc. But, I have loved being back in the saddle at school. I'm still busy at home too--last night we closed on the refinance of our house, enjoyed a visit with Granna, PawPaw, and Mama Scott, and watched Chip play basketball. The Scotts came bearing gifts--the Diaper Dekor Disposal system, the newly mended bumper, and the precious pink hamper! It is really coming together.
This morning came early, but I still bounced out of bed carried by all the good emotions of visiting with family, sharing excitement about Henslee's impending arrival, and completing the refinance. Even though it was a busy day, I was joined by my soon to be long term substitute teacher in my classes. The saying is true-many hands make light work. All in all--I'm just feeling pretty good about progress in getting ready for baby-and the upcoming transition for my students.
I also learned today that I will be working at UGA again--right after Henslee is born and this summer. I have been so anxious about how finances would work as we introduce another baby to the picture--worried that I would be unable to afford to work at Athens Academy, pay a nanny, and keep my kids in school there. Trey and I have had meetings and worked through lots of possibilities, but there was no way around us needing more money to keep things how we wanted them to be. So--at least for most of the 2011-2012 school year we've now got it sorted. It won't be easy to work through maternity leave for money soley earmarked for a nanny beginning in August--but it will be fulfilling, fun work, and it will alleviate a ton of stress. Things just have a way of working out.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011 Blessing #257
I think I have mentioned here that Wednesdays are my busiest days. My planning periods don't meet and it feels like I hardly have time to go to the potty--lately that really is an issue, since I have to go all the time. Really, I can't believe I've ever complained about not having time. When I am able to function without having to go to the bathroom every 15 minutes, I think I will amaze myself with all I accomplish!
Anyway, it has been an adjustment, going from PJs all day during the snowcation to up at 5, ready at 6, waking the kids, packing lunches, etc. But, I have loved being back in the saddle at school. I'm still busy at home too--last night we closed on the refinance of our house, enjoyed a visit with Granna, PawPaw, and Mama Scott, and watched Chip play basketball. The Scotts came bearing gifts--the Diaper Dekor Disposal system, the newly mended bumper, and the precious pink hamper! It is really coming together.
This morning came early, but I still bounced out of bed carried by all the good emotions of visiting with family, sharing excitement about Henslee's impending arrival, and completing the refinance. Even though it was a busy day, I was joined by my soon to be long term substitute teacher in my classes. The saying is true-many hands make light work. All in all--I'm just feeling pretty good about progress in getting ready for baby-and the upcoming transition for my students.
I also learned today that I will be working at UGA again--right after Henslee is born and this summer. I have been so anxious about how finances would work as we introduce another baby to the picture--worried that I would be unable to afford to work at Athens Academy, pay a nanny, and keep my kids in school there. Trey and I have had meetings and worked through lots of possibilities, but there was no way around us needing more money to keep things how we wanted them to be. So--at least for most of the 2011-2012 school year we've now got it sorted. It won't be easy to work through maternity leave for money soley earmarked for a nanny beginning in August--but it will be fulfilling, fun work, and it will alleviate a ton of stress. Things just have a way of working out.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The Spirit of My Work
January 18, 2011 Blessing #256
"Be grateful for the joy of life. Be glad for the privilege of work. Be thankful for the opportunity to give and serve. Good work is the great character-builder, the sweetener of life, the maker of destiny. Let the spirit of your work be right, and whether your task be great or small you will then have the satisfaction of knowing it is worth while." -Grenville Kleiser
I was right about the non stop part, but it was great to be back at work! All day I was filled with reminders about how lucky I am to teach children science. It was also a bit bitter sweet--Chip and Katie came just over 6 weeks from now--and that means just 6 more weeks with my advisory and my classes. Now that I am so busy at work, it will fly by.
My advisory is composed of 14 kids (we were missing 1 in this pic!) who have been with me since they started at our upper school--so I've been with them through a lot--and they are about to graduate. The big goodbye isn't far away. In any case, I am sad about it, but also, I feel so fortunate to have worked with these kids. It is because of them I remembered this is my calling--who said you have to be a grown up to teach someone something? Today I am thankful for my work. Sometimes the tasks are big, sometimes they are small, but I do know they are all worthwhile.
"Be grateful for the joy of life. Be glad for the privilege of work. Be thankful for the opportunity to give and serve. Good work is the great character-builder, the sweetener of life, the maker of destiny. Let the spirit of your work be right, and whether your task be great or small you will then have the satisfaction of knowing it is worth while." -Grenville Kleiser
I was right about the non stop part, but it was great to be back at work! All day I was filled with reminders about how lucky I am to teach children science. It was also a bit bitter sweet--Chip and Katie came just over 6 weeks from now--and that means just 6 more weeks with my advisory and my classes. Now that I am so busy at work, it will fly by.
My advisory is composed of 14 kids (we were missing 1 in this pic!) who have been with me since they started at our upper school--so I've been with them through a lot--and they are about to graduate. The big goodbye isn't far away. In any case, I am sad about it, but also, I feel so fortunate to have worked with these kids. It is because of them I remembered this is my calling--who said you have to be a grown up to teach someone something? Today I am thankful for my work. Sometimes the tasks are big, sometimes they are small, but I do know they are all worthwhile.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Order from Chaos
Monday, January 17, 2011 Blessing #255
Back to work tomorrow! I am ready--even though it will be nonstop once I get there. Making up a week of instructional time is not going to be easy. I went in to my classroom tonight and set the stage--so I will be ready to hit the ground running (well, waddling, maybe?).
Anyway--they finally came! My over the door clear shoe organizers. I am so in love with them, I can't wait to get paid and buy three more! I want one in every closet in the house. This was another great idea from Good Housekeeping's January issue, except the one they showed was opaque. I may be newly on fire about organizing...but one thing I realized years ago is that there is no point in storing things in any other kind of container but clear. What's the point of storing it if it's not easy to find? Anyway check out the before and after pics of kitchen junk drawers (it started as just one--but just sort of took on a life of its own).
You know it's funny--as a child I was a major hoarder (like Chip). But, as a teen I was meticulous in keeping my room clean and clutter free-and I stayed that way until I was a Mom. Then, something just had to go...at first there was Chip and a Masters' porfolio plus part time teaching. Then there was Chip, Katie, a dissertation to write, and part time teaching....and then there was full time teaching plus the kids and their expanding schedule of activities. I guess this crazy nesting is all about trying to regain order before there is yet another iron in the fire (in this case, my soon to be new baby, Henslee).
Check out how we used the 2nd organizer to clean up clutter in the entertainment center! This is inside the coat closet door.
Anyway, I highly recommend that you buy this product in your effort to simplify! It really will bring order from chaos--and for working Moms, well for anyone I guess, that is special. So, today--I'm thankful for the extra time off. I excited to go back to work--and I am soaking in this moment where I feel I have won a battle against chaos in my home!
Back to work tomorrow! I am ready--even though it will be nonstop once I get there. Making up a week of instructional time is not going to be easy. I went in to my classroom tonight and set the stage--so I will be ready to hit the ground running (well, waddling, maybe?).
Anyway--they finally came! My over the door clear shoe organizers. I am so in love with them, I can't wait to get paid and buy three more! I want one in every closet in the house. This was another great idea from Good Housekeeping's January issue, except the one they showed was opaque. I may be newly on fire about organizing...but one thing I realized years ago is that there is no point in storing things in any other kind of container but clear. What's the point of storing it if it's not easy to find? Anyway check out the before and after pics of kitchen junk drawers (it started as just one--but just sort of took on a life of its own).
Junk Drawer #1
Junk Drawer #2
All the Drawer Junk VISIBLE on the back of the Laundry Room Door!
Well, I couldn't get the whole thing in focus-my laundry room is tiny--but hopefully you get the idea!
The After of Drawer #1
The After of Drawer #2
Check out how we used the 2nd organizer to clean up clutter in the entertainment center! This is inside the coat closet door.
No More Panicked Kids Looking for Wii games or accessories!
Anyway, I highly recommend that you buy this product in your effort to simplify! It really will bring order from chaos--and for working Moms, well for anyone I guess, that is special. So, today--I'm thankful for the extra time off. I excited to go back to work--and I am soaking in this moment where I feel I have won a battle against chaos in my home!
Daddy's Hug and The Happiness Project
Sunday, January 16 Blessing #254
Mom and Dad came to visit today! It was wonderful-I got to show them all I've been cleaning out and they got to see the progress on the nursery. There is something about being this pregnant (I think we are coming up on 32 weeks--Chip and Katie were both born at 38) that means I want my Mom and my sisters around me. The women folk just take it all in stride and know what to say and do to get ready for baby and support the Momma. And when I hugged Daddy, I just could have stayed there forever. My Daddy has the most wonderful, comforting smell--and it never fails to make me feel safe and loved; and well, like I am still and will always be his little girl. We're coming up on the anniversary of my brother's death-so, if anyone needs comforting it's probably Daddy. Yet, without even realizing it, he's tending to me.
So the blessing is pretty obvious today, right? Just thinking about the love and support in my life has me teary. I have so much for which to be thankful.
But, I wanted to also mention, that I have ready two articles in Good Housekeeping by or about Gretchin Rubin--and they have both been fabulous. I am going to read her book about Happiness--and thought some of you might like to read it too! She's already inspired me to make my bed everyday--and simplify, simplify, simplify. And she was right--it does make it easier to find the good stuff! Anyway, read along!
Mom and Dad came to visit today! It was wonderful-I got to show them all I've been cleaning out and they got to see the progress on the nursery. There is something about being this pregnant (I think we are coming up on 32 weeks--Chip and Katie were both born at 38) that means I want my Mom and my sisters around me. The women folk just take it all in stride and know what to say and do to get ready for baby and support the Momma. And when I hugged Daddy, I just could have stayed there forever. My Daddy has the most wonderful, comforting smell--and it never fails to make me feel safe and loved; and well, like I am still and will always be his little girl. We're coming up on the anniversary of my brother's death-so, if anyone needs comforting it's probably Daddy. Yet, without even realizing it, he's tending to me.
So the blessing is pretty obvious today, right? Just thinking about the love and support in my life has me teary. I have so much for which to be thankful.
But, I wanted to also mention, that I have ready two articles in Good Housekeeping by or about Gretchin Rubin--and they have both been fabulous. I am going to read her book about Happiness--and thought some of you might like to read it too! She's already inspired me to make my bed everyday--and simplify, simplify, simplify. And she was right--it does make it easier to find the good stuff! Anyway, read along!
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