It's all about Grace

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

How deep the Father's love that He should send his Son among us! I pray you and your family will have a blessed day reveling in the knowledge of the Father's love for us!

Luke 2:1-20

The Birth of Jesus Christ

¹ In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. ² This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. ³And all went to be registered, each to his own town. ⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, ⁵ to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. ⁶ And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. ⁷ And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

⁸ And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹ And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. ¹⁰ And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. ¹²And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” ¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” ¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” ¹⁶ And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. ¹⁷ And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. ¹⁸ And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. ¹⁹But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. ²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

In a stable

2011-12-19T08:00:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure how I stumbled upon this blog, but I just love what Missy wrote last week. Please go on over and read what she has to say about Christmas and living in a fallen world. I couldn't say it any better!

In a stable

A Charlie Brown Christmas

2011-12-15T20:40:00.002-05:00

I don't care how old I get, I still enjoy watching A Charlie Brown Christmas every year. Here are two of my favorite scenes.

2011-12-15T20:35:00.000-05:00

Midweek Elsie! Cuz everybody needs a little Elsie to cheer them up. :o)

2011-09-28T07:23:00.003-04:00

She sleeps in the weirdest positions. Seriously. How is this even comfortable?

A walk into my past

2011-09-26T21:22:00.000-04:00

If you were to take a walk into my past about 15 years ago, you would have found that my life revolved around The School of Dance Arts and the South Carolina Theatre. By my Senior year, I was there 6 out of 7 days, and many days it was literally over 10 hours that I might have been there. You might say I was very passionate about ballet. It had always been a childhood dream of mine. I remember being four and watching the Nutcracker with my parents. I was enthralled with the entire thing and informed my mom that I would be on that stage one day. And yes, CHECK, that childhood dream was fulfilled. I can't explain it, dance was and has always just been part of me and even today, I still get excited when I'm able to dance. I even took ballet with me to Africa. Teaching there was so much fun, and I even found time to take a few classes of my own. Fast forward three years back from Africa, and I'm still wanting to dance. This time, I decided we needed ballet classes in Dillon. I knew that our Wellness Center had the facilities to offer a ballet class. So, this past August, I marched myself down there and proposed to them that they needed to offer ballet classes and they needed me to teach them. AND. Success! We have now had three fun classes, and they keep getting easier and easier to teach. I was pretty nervous at first, since it had been a while. Now that I'm getting into the swing of things, I'm enjoying have dance back in my life. Maybe I'll actually get back in shape . . . one can only hope!

Hey, look! It's me! My classes!

Our humble studio!

And, no, I'm not MIA!

2011-09-20T22:21:00.000-04:00

Umm, somehow the last month slid by and I haven't managed to find time to blog. I'm still humbled that people are reading. Really, am I that interesting? What have I done the last month, you might ask? Simple. Go to school, come home and collapse, go to bed, wake up, and repeat. Apparently I have it on good authority that I ~~complain every year~~ can't remember how hard it is to transition a new class. Basically, I'm just now getting into the swing of things where I don't fall asleep from 5 to 7 every evening. So, hopefully you'll hear from me more often.

I'm really enjoying our new school year. We have a new headmaster, and I'm pleased to say that he's doing a great job. I've been really impressed! Not to mention the new lunch program he introduced. We now have a full lunch program at school, and I may ~~or may not~~ have gained some pounds from this fabulous cooking. Plus since it's just me at home, it certainly helps when I can have my main meal prepared by someone else. Especially when all I want to do is sleep when I get home (see above paragraph).

I have more to say about what's been going on in my life, but I'll end with my hall bulletin board. Not that I'm bragging, but I thought it turned out pretty well this year!

Plus, here's some really cute photos of ELSIE getting into trouble!

Check out her tail! Apparently she is scared of the plastic bag in the corner. Silly cat!

And here we are proving that, yes, the shelf high above the washer/dryer can in fact be conquered!

Heather vs. the NC DMV

2011-08-04T22:14:00.004-04:00

***** In which Heather admits that she really doesn't have it together (but we knew that didn't we?) *****

Sooooo, since I moved to the other Carolina, I had to deal with all the fun things you get to do when you move states. Like frequent the DMV and play the fun game of how does this state do things (and why can't they do it like South Carolina?). Really. It's a fun game. Really, it can be. I'm sure it is. At least that's what I'm telling myself. However, still hesitant that I may not have won this game, I'll share my fun experiences.

1) Two trips to the drivers license office (not to be confused with the SC DMV where you can accomplish more than one thing). Oh, did I mention that these offices are in another town 20 miles away? Yeah, my town is so small it doesn't have one.

Trip one: realize the wait is over two hours and decide to come back.

Trip two: arrive at 8:45, wait in line, get number, number is called before one can even sit down, pass info to helpful clerk (no, really - the employees here were extremely nice and helpful!), take vision and street signs test, take written test (you know the one you barely passed as a teenager - or was that just me), pass with flying colors only because of the skimming you did the night before, pay money, take picture, leave without license.

Yeah, you read that correct. They mail it to you 5 to 20 days later. In which comes the other part of this fun story.

2) Four trips to the license plate office (which of course is nowhere near the driver's license office).

Trip one: Drive to office, discover that they really won't give you a plate until you have your license in your hand there with you. Walk to car. Have major meltdown for no reason since I knew that.

Trip two and three: Drive to office happy that license is now in hand, wait in line, proceed with all paperwork and get ready to pay. Discover that all checks have been used. Ask desperately what to do since I really didn't want to drive home and back for checks. Helpful clerk suggests ATM around corner. Leave DMV, walk around corner, no ATM, get lost, go back to car, circle Lumberton like five times (ok, maybe that's a slight exaggeration), get upset, call co-worker who lives here, find bank, no ATM, find another bank, bank 1 directs to, get cash, drive back to DMV, go back inside, line has now tripled, wait more, finally my turn, get upset internally cuz of a misheard amount and maybe not enough cash, God is gracious, enough cash, find out massive amount of cash is welcome to NC fee (my interpretation) and taxes will come in three months, get tag, leave office, have massive meltdown in car (in which I petition God that I really can't handle being single anymore).

Trip Four: DMV sends me a letter, they gave me the wrong tag, please call, call and find out tag needs to be returned, drive to office, unscrew tag, wait in line, proceed with more computer stuff, scrape sticker off tag, print new info, new tag and correct sticker, screw tag back in and feel satisfied that it might all be over.

I'm still waiting and hoping that maybe that was the end of it all and maybe, just maybe I'm a NC resident full and clear.

Now some of you ladies out there may be of the type that you do this kind of stuff, not your husband. That's fine. And all this could have happened to you, too. I guess I was just feeling overwhelmed and very alone at the time. Pray for me as I have been feeling the vast aloneness of being single. Not the aloneness of not having an amazing God to take care of me and not that I don't have a wonderful family and friends. More of the aloneness of no companionship to accompany me home and chat with over dinner and have discussions in the evening. I really miss having companionship in the evenings and having someone I can bounce things off of without feeling like I'm bothering them or being too burdensome. It's a hard balance I've found. But mostly I've just discovered that I'm never moving to another state . . . not unless I have a man to do all of this for me!

Umm, where did the summer go?

2011-07-19T22:13:00.002-04:00

WOW! Is is really the middle of July? Have I really not posted in almost two months. Could anybody help me identify where the past weeks have gone? I feel so humbled because people are still actually reading this - and I don't even think they're related to me :o)

Anyway, here's a quick recap of what's gone on the past few weeks:

~ School ended

~ I moved out of the Kelly's home

~ I moved into my brand new (rented) home - it's my first real house so stay tuned for more about that

Moving is full time work, so while I haven't actually been working, I have. I'm using that as my excuse for not posting and I'm sticking to it!

There's only three more weeks till I start back at school. My brain is slowly shifting gears for that. We have a new headmaster and while I'm excited to work for him (esp. since I think he's going to be great for our school), there's always that nervous anticipation of trying to figure out what he expects of his teachers, etc.

I also have some thing else up my sleeve for the new school year and if it comes to fruition, I'll be sure to share. I'll also plan on finishing up posting about our cruise. So, Lord willing, stay tuned for some more posts soon.

Thanks for hanging with me!

Cruisin'

2011-05-29T21:44:00.005-04:00

My friend Carrie and I finally took a long planned and awaited cruise two weeks ago. Literally, we had been talking about this for over five years. Anyway, we left out of Charleston and sailed to the Bahamas and back. It was a nice trip. Actually, I'd be fine if I could do this every year, but alas, the budget does not allow for that! So here are some pictures and stories from Day 1:

We drove to Charleston on Saturday morning and arrived at the pier at 12:30. I was highly impressed at how efficient the parking process was. After making sure we were not security threats (and had all our documents), we left our luggage with porters to be carried on ship for us. After parking my car, we then proceeded to a shuttle bus that took us to the terminal. Once at the terminal, we went through more security and then checked in. We were given a card that was our key and way to pay for anything on board. This card also had a photo of me and anytime I left the ship it was logged and then when I came back on board, it was also logged. I thought that it was a neat way to make sure all the correct people are on board.

After checking out our room (which had two portholes), we went to find some lunch and do some exploring. Man these ships are huge! It took me most of the cruise to figure out all the decks and where everything was.

We stayed up on deck for departure. How exciting it was to be sailing out into the ocean. I think I might have inherited some of my Navy dad's genes because I just loved the feel of being completely surrounded by water. It was a bit windy, but a great start to a fun trip!

Leaving Charleston:

Here's our towel critter for the day: We think it's a seal.

Stay tuned for day 2: "Fun" day at sea!

And another chapter closes . . .

2011-05-24T22:21:00.002-04:00

Tonight it just occurred to me that I'm closing one more year of teaching. One more year of blessing and being blessed by six/seven year olds. How can tomorrow be the last day of school? Wasn't I just getting to know them and sharing my expectations for first grade? Wasn't yesterday open house? This year seemed to go by fast. It's had its ups and downs like every year. We've shared the joys of really "getting it" in academics and we've shared sorrows of sad things that happened in our life. Tomorrow I have to say goodbye to them. I'm sad, but I won't deny them the excitement of growing older and maturing and learning new things. Today I had the fortunate privilege of being told that I had been a blessing to someone's child and they were thankful they were in my class. Wow. How humbling is that, that God used me to further one more child in academics and spirituality. Sometimes throughout the busyness of ending a school year, I forget to sit and count my blessings. I'm gonna miss this class like I do every year, but I'm excited to see what new challenges and experiences God will bring with a new class in August.

I can hardly believe that with the closing of this year begins the opening of my tenth year of teaching. TEN YEARS. How exactly can I be that old? I currently have more teaching experience behind me that the teacher I was under for student teaching. Could I have the kind of wisdom I saw in her? Am I looked up as a role model? I don't know . . . all I know is that I fail and that I'm a sinner saved by grace and that I need His help/grace daily. I would not have ever thought I would be back in Dillon teaching year ten. I did a quick estimate and realized that God has allowed me to touch over 135 children in the past nine years. What a huge task to be accountable for. May God continue to be with me in the future! Not only that, but next year marks my very first graduating class. DUDE . . . now I feel old! :) I can't wait to see what's going to happen in the future, and I'm glad to rest in the security of knowing my Jesus has the best future planned for me and my students.

Oh speaking of blessings, have you heard Laura Story's latest song, Blessings? What an encouraging message this song has.

Hey, hopefully, I'll have pics up of my trip soon!!!! Excited yet?!

What I've been up to and why I haven't posted lately:

2011-05-21T19:48:00.002-04:00

Can you guess?

If Only . . .

2011-05-04T22:33:00.004-04:00

I was thinking about "if only(ies)" today. Now, my solid theological training (thanks Dad and Mom!) tells me that God doesn't work that way and He's got my future planned. But sometimes, it's fun to think about if only . . . .

If only I was married . . . I'd see my sin more. :)

If only I was a mommy . . . I'd have sweet babies of my own to cuddle (and discipline!)

If only I could homeschool my children . . . I'd get to unveil the mysteries of teaching more than one grade at a time.

If only I could adopt babies from Africa . . . they need mommies and daddies, too

If only I could visit Uganda again . . . I'd move there if I could commute home for weekends, holidays, and summer vacation.

If only I could live as a missionary wife in a closed country . . . yeah, I know this one isn't normal. I think my mom must pray daily for me to be single just to avoid this one. Just kidding Mom!

If only I could realize how blessed I am even though I don't have these things I "want". They would be the top of my "bucket list", but I'm glad to rest in the assurance that my heavenly Father knows what I need and will give me exactly what is best for me each moment.

Delight yourself also in the LORD,And He shall give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

Reason 513 why you really don't want to know what your first grader tells the teacher:

2011-05-02T18:26:00.005-04:00

"I love roaches to kill. I have some at my house I kill."

Forgiveness and Peacemaking

2011-05-01T20:39:00.003-04:00

So I have devotions this week in our morning staff meetings and while I know what I want to share, my thoughts are still kinda jumbled. Fortunately I have until Wednesday to get it together! Therefore, you guys are my guinea pigs.

Don't you just "hate" it when God is trying to get something across to you and everywhere you go, you're getting the same message. Yeah, me too. Right now God's been teaching me that we are not our own, we are dependent on God. We must deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow. I'm learning that taking up our cross does not mean dealing with those annoying people in our lives and being long-suffering. It means revealing our sinful selves, giving away our pride and selfishness and being kind and gracious instead. Man, that's tough! Being sanctified is not always easy, but it does have a sense of satisfaction that I am growing more like Christ. Which, of course, is the ultimate goal.

Now you may be wondering what all this has to do with forgiveness and peacemaking. Obviously, when people hurt us, we are called to forgive. Forgiveness is also tough, but we are called to do so because otherwise it will eat us on the inside. On the flip side, once we forgive them we have to be peacemakers as well. Sometimes I don't want to do the right thing, but I know this is what is expected of me as a believer. I teach this concept to my first graders and they really struggle with this. Why should they be nice back to someone who has been mean to them? As the teacher, their "petty" little quarrels seem so easy to overlook, but I bet God sees the same with our disagreements. So this week, let's work on giving away our pride and being gracious and kind instead. I shall leave you with the young peacemaker poem and a verse:

Good thought, hurt you not, gossip never, friends forever

When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. Mark 8:34

Every Life Has a Story

2011-04-16T20:28:00.001-04:00

Saw this on Tara Barthel's blog (check her out here - I highly recommend this blog), and I had to share. Everyone does have a story and we do need to be compassionate to all because we really don't know what they are going through.

A few cute sayings . . .

2011-04-14T19:58:00.002-04:00

Here are two cute things some of my first graders have said this week:

Miss Peeler, if you ever come way out in the country where I live you will see wild hogs. The kind with big tusks. Them are dangerous. You need to stay away from them. (Yeah, apparently we still need to work on grammar here in first grade!) Same child also said that their accent was so country that they wrote are instead of our.

One of our spelling words this week is bridle. One of my students asked what that was, and since I have another student who rides horses, I asked that child if he would like to explain to the class what it was. He grinned and put his hands together and said proudly, " Well, do you know about a steering wheel in a car? That's what a bridle is for a horse." He then went into great detail about how it worked.

I just loved it! Having students teach other students and share their knowledge is so awesome. It definitely encourages them in their quest of learning.

Looking ahead to this weekend, I'm hosting my discipleship girls for lunch on Saturday. I hope that, not only do they come, but they enjoy themselves. I question myself. Why would they want to hang out with me. I'm not exactly "cool". Then I remind myself of the previous post and where my security lies. Then I worry some more. I'll let you know how it goes. Pray for me!

Where does your security come from?

2011-04-13T19:42:00.000-04:00

The month of March just flew by. I knew it was going to be really busy, but somehow, it passed by in a blur. We had Stanford testing to get through and then the Praise Concert at school. The entire school did an amazing job glorifying our Saviour!

Anyway, I often have to remind myself that my security comes from Jesus not _______ (fill in the blank). I also know that my security in who I am does not come from first graders. For example, at recess this week:

"Miss Peeler, can you do cartwheels?"

My response: Not any more

"Why, are you too large?"

Um no, do you think I am?

YES was the emphatic response. In the child's defense, they thought they were too big and they weighed 75 pounds. So logically I must be too large as well!

Then again today:

You must know that I have ladybugs all over my class door with each child's name on one. Miss Peeler, you need to put your name on the big lady bug in the center. We know it's you cuz it's so big, it's squashing the flower it's on.

I joked to some coworkers that while I don't think I've gained any weight, but kids must think that I have. They in kind responded that my kids must have gotten the words tall and large mixed up. Let's hope so!

I'm so thankful that my security lies in Christ, and I don't have to prove myself to anyone but him. And of course in him, I'm completely accepted. Praise God for that!

A trip to the farm!

2011-04-12T18:57:00.000-04:00

Ok, so while my life in Africa proved that I may not actually be cut out for rural life (translation: I like my cushy life in the "city' - such as you can call Dillon), I definitely enjoy being around animals. Anyway, two weeks ago (yeah, I'm a little behind on my blogging), I was invited over to spend some time on a dear friend's farm. They have three precious children who gave me a great tour of all their animals. They had just gotten in a batch of baby turkeys. Oh my goodness, how cute were they - not even a week old. Sadly, their fate is not a good one for them, but a good one for us!

You can't really see the little guy that I'm holding. So, here's a close-up of the baby turkeys!

Chickens! Farm Cats! Oh the joys of being on a farm. Kinda reminded me of being back in Africa. Only here, I know the animals don't carry weird diseases.

A very shy donkey, and a not so shy goat. I think he definitely tried to make a meal out of my shirt at one point.

Now I got to meet this sweet little girl one day after she was born a few weeks ago. My goodness baby goats are so soft and sweet.

I couldn't resist a picture of the guinea fowl. They don't actually do anything except eat bugs, but hey, that's important, too! So by the end of my time, I had thoroughly enjoyed being a part of farm life again, but definitely glad that I could leave them there.

Apple-Cinnamon Scones

2011-03-16T21:02:00.006-04:00

My mother is usually the one who blogs on recipes, but I just tried this recipe I found on the internet (with a few tweaks of my own) and I just had to share. I've never actually made scones, and not only was this recipe super easy, but really yummy! Enjoy!

Apple Cinnamon Scones

Scones:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup white sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup butter, chilled

1 apple - peeled, cored and shredded

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup milk

Topping:

2 tablespoons milk

2 tablespoons white sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1) Measure flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Cut in butter and mix until crumbly. Add shredded apple (yes, I learned you really can grate apple), cinnamon, and milk. Stir to form a soft dough.

2) Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently 8 to 10 times. Pat into two rectangles on greased and floured baking sheet. Dough will be slightly sticky, extra flour helps. Brush tops with milk and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mixture. Score each into six triangles.

3) Bake at 425 for 15 minutes or until brown and risen.

Silly Kitty Positions

2011-03-15T18:23:00.002-04:00

I just found this and thought it was hysterical . . . and so true. I've seen Elsie in most of these positions! I think my favorite two are The Loaf and The Overhang. Although, I definitely see The Rump Stretch and the Flop quite a bit.

Return of the Quad Mitten Defence!

Could it be Spring?

2011-02-27T21:09:00.010-05:00

Today when I stepped out the door to go to church, I noticed something that wasn't there yesterday:

SIGNS OF SPRING!!!!!

I love daffodils and to discover that I had some in my flowerbeds was an awesome start to my Sunday. I walked around the yard after church (the weather was awesome at 80 degrees!) and began looking for more signs of spring. They are definitely starting to show (I saw an orange butterfly!) and that makes for a happy Heather. I think that this time of year might just be my favorite season. The newness of plants, the coming of warm weather, it just makes for a happy time. As you can see, where just two months ago I had a snow man, I now have flowers. Isn't God good to send Spring?

On a funny side note, someone else is apparently not too happy to see spring:

Yes, Elsie discovered this winter that the space heater was warm. Several times I've found her cuddled near it. So imagine my surprise tonight when I discovered her asleep next to the UNPLUGGED heater. Well, so sorry kitty, but 80 degree days do not call for turned on heaters! Hopefully we won't need it again until next winter (Lord willing!).

2011-02-24T19:02:00.003-05:00

Have you ever felt that sometimes God asks too much of you? I've been pondering this lately because (in my little mind) it seems like nothing is going like I want it. My closest friends are moving away, no future spouse in the works, no housemate. It seems like God has a life of eternal loneliness set aside for me. I look around, everyone else's life seems to be "complete". Why not mine? But yet, I realize, other's lives aren't as "complete" as they they desire. They too, are dealing with, "Why would God ask this of me?". While the human in me wants to be cast down, I know that during times of trouble, I have to hold strong to my Rock. Then when I look back, I will see the beautiful picture that God is weaving of my life. Dr. Brown shared this devotion in church last night, and I'm convinced that it was put on his heart just so I could hear and gain encouragement. It's from Feb. 20 of Spurgeon's Morning and Evening.

“God, that comforteth those that are cast down.”

2 Corinthians 7:6

And who comforteth like him? Go to some poor, melancholy, distressed child of God; tell him sweet promises, and whisper in his ear choice words of comfort; he is like the deaf adder, he listens not to the voice of the charmer, charm he never so wisely. He is drinking gall and wormwood, and comfort him as you may, it will be only a note or two of mournful resignation that you will get from him; you will bring forth no psalms of praise, no hallelujahs, no joyful sonnets. But let God come to his child, let him lift up his countenance, and the mourner’s eyes glisten with hope. Do you not hear him sing—

“'Tis paradise, if thou art here;

If thou depart, 'tis hell?”

You could not have cheered him: but the Lord has done it; “He is the God of all comfort.” There is no balm in Gilead, but there is balm in God. There is no physician among the creatures, but the Creator is Jehovah-rophi. It is marvellous how one sweet word of God will make whole songs for Christians. One word of God is like a piece of gold, and the Christian is the gold beater, and can hammer that promise out for whole weeks. So, then, poor Christian, thou needest not sit down in despair. Go to the Comforter, and ask him to give thee consolation. Thou art a poor dry well. You have heard it said, that when a pump is dry, you must pour water down it first of all, and then you will get water, and so, Christian, when thou art dry, go to God, ask him to shed abroad his joy in thy heart, and then thy joy shall be full. Do not go to earthly acquaintances, for you will find them Job’s comforters after all; but go first and foremost to thy “God, that comforteth those that are cast down,” and you will soon say, “In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.”

National Singles Awareness Day

2011-02-12T22:13:00.011-05:00

Monday is Valentines Day. I've tried several times to link to this cute post from Radical Womanhood. I just love Carolyn McCulley had to say. So here's the link to give proper credit and here's the post:

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Countdown to National Singles Awareness Day

With National Singles Awareness Day rapidly approaching (Valentine's Day to the rest of the lovey-dovey world), it's time to batten down the hatches around our singleton hearts. Here are some time-tested survival tips from a grizzled veteran:

Step one: Avoid all stores until February 16 (give the retailers time to take down all that red and pink festooning their stores). If necessary, eat all your canned food first but do not, I repeat, DO NOT go into grocery stores for the next week.
Step two: Watch only action films or documentaries until late February. This is the only acceptable time of year to banish Jane Austen.
Step three: Follow the example of one of my friends who brushes up on her literary skills each year by composing sarcastic Valentine's Day haiku poems. ("Eat chocolate now, Eat chocolate tomorrow, Squeeze into pants soon." Or, "Flowers not for me, No candy for me either, Will steal my colleague's.")
Step four: Buy flowers for yourself a day or two ahead of time, to save money. Every time you pass them, say out loud: "Oh, how beautiful! You shouldn't have!"
Step five: Repeat after me, "Chocolate is NOT the solution to all my problems."
Step six: Plan to bless someone else. After all, this holiday is not about you anyway.
Step seven: Skip the faux celebrations and consolation events and schedule a personal retreat with the Lover of Your Soul. We all need an eternal perspective right now.

In the immortal words of Napoleon Dynamite, "There's more where that came from."

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All of this is true. Valentines Day can be pretty rough on someone . . . especially someone who dared to dream this past summer that for once she might not be single this Valentines Day. But I have to chose the eternal perspective and trust the Lord for my future. So if I have my way this Valentines Day, I'll be snuggling with a dear friend's sweet children while they have a chance to go out. Let's just hope that they take me up on their offer!

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UPDATE:

While I won't be snuggling with that dear friend's children, as they are opting to stay in for the evening, I will be on a "date". Another special friend and her family have invited me to join them for their Valentines dinner. So, I'll still have a chance to snuggle with a special 3 year old and love on him (especially since they're moving in two weeks - sad, I know). I'm so thankful for people who love on us "singles".

100th Day

2011-02-05T22:24:00.006-05:00

Last week we had the 100th day at school. I can hardly believe that there are less than 80 days left of this school year (I think that equates to about 16 weeks, not that I'm counting or anything). This year has really sped by. While it is speeding by, my heart is still heavy. Being the worrier that I am, I wonder, what will happen this summer. Where will I live when the Kelly's come back. I know that God is in control and that he's planned my future, but still I wonder since I don't know what God has planned for me.

Back to the 100th day, it was a fun day of using the number 100 to explore all kinds of things. From 100 words to graphing 100 m&m's, it was a great way to celebrate the fact that we have already been in school 100 days! All my kids brought in a collection of 100 items to represent the days. I had a picture of these items my class brought in to share, but for some reason it's messed up. When I get it fixed I'll post it below.

As you can see, we have two kinds of marshmallows, pennies, straws, beans (in the jar), apple jacks, captain crunch, and (my favorite!) pieces of popcorn representing snow!

Chosen

2011-01-22T19:43:00.003-05:00

I can be VERY indecisive sometimes (Yes, Hannah, you can stop nodding your head and laughing at that understatement!). I'd like to think that it's called being laid back, but . . . . ! Many times I know what I want, but other times, seriously, I drive myself crazy. How hard can it be to choose a cereal, or plan what I want to eat for the week, or make a decision whether or not to go to the PRESWIC annual meeting (yes, this is all true). It's the little things that get me. Big life decisions are easy because I can pray and seek God's will. However, nowhere in the Bible does it tell me which lotion scent to choose or whether I should run errands today or tomorrow. These small things really are not life or death issues, and there are no wrong or right answers, but sometimes I agonize over what I want to do. Does anybody else struggle with this? Is there any help out there for indecisive people? No, really? All helpful ideas will be accepted.

In an attempt to answer to my own question I've decided that there is an answer. It's called I need a permanent decision maker in my life. So, I'm currently taken applications for someone who I can call on to decide which cereal I should buy, what I should fix for dinner for the week, and which cookies I should pack in my lunch. :o) Serious applicants only!

Seriously though, how glad I am that God has chosen me! I know that with all my sin and muck, I would not have chosen HIM. What a beautiful thing that the major choices of this world have been made for me and that I can trust Jesus with my future. Both the big and little things!

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit an that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. John 15:16

Snowed in!

2011-01-11T19:27:00.006-05:00

Well, today is day two of our "big snow" and tomorrow will be day three. It's pretty funny how what the North can handle, the South closes down. We've had about seven inches of snow followed by sleet and ice. Which leads us to Wednesday, still stuck indoors. The sun is supposed to come out tomorrow, so hopefully we'll be back to normal on Thursday. Not sure what exactly I'm going to do with my class for two days, because I don't want get our weeks out of sync. I'll probably use the time to focus on a few new topics and review. The kids will be happy to know that they won't be having any tests this week!

I decided this afternoon since the roads weren't too bad, I'd take a trip to Wal-mart. Where I discovered half of Dillon had the same idea. How sad is it that I just wandered around content to be in a place with other people! I know that one day I will look back on this solitary time and wish it back, but right now I sure could use some company. If we don't go back to school on Thursday, I may be risking the roads again to find some actual. living, breathing people! On the up side, at least I've had plenty of time to get my to-do list done! Tomorrow's agenda contains a little bit of sewing, baking some cookies, a little bit of pampering (nails), and hopefully walking around the neighborhood. Not too shabby for the third day straight stuck inside! Enjoy a few pics of around my home:

My miniature snowman!

Shot from the back gate

A cardinal in a tree

Elsie checking things out

Side view of house

Front view of house

Oh, and I just remembered one other thing I'll be doing. Watching our new governor being inaugurated! How exciting is that - if I had been at school, I wouldn't have been able to watch it live. As always, thankful for the small things.

Cents vs Sense

2011-01-06T20:45:00.003-05:00

The second half of first grade is always a lot of fun. The children have gained (miraculously, I think) maturity over the Christmas break, and they are raring to go. My class this year, as usual, is giving many chuckles. I might be a tad biased, but really 6/7 year olds are truly the greatest. They love life, they love me, and they (most importantly) are learning to love Jesus! Such precious times I've had in Bible class as they explore learning about God. This week in particular we've been learning about Jesus as a boy. I've really seen the wheels turning as we delve into how Jesus would have lived and how honoring our parents means obeying with a good attitude. (Yeah, it can be convicting for teachers as well!)

In math class today, we were rocking and rolling learning about money. The currency of the day was the half dollar and dollar. The half dollar coin was a little confusing for them since, well, we don't really use that coin any more. However, I should have my hands on that coin soon, and hopefully will help clarify about this coin. We also discussed the dollar, which as always is a very fascinating lesson. Truly it is! All first graders know about bills is that they spend. So we spent time today discussing how they are printed on special paper, the letter that shows where the dollar was printed (Side note: why does San Francisco use L, Atlanta has F, and New York a B? Make sense? Anyone? Yeah, me either.), and the different serial numbers.

Anyway, we moved on to writing out dollars and cents. I explained about the decimal point and then wrote $1.00 on the board. I pointed to the one and asked how many dollars - they replied, 1. I pointed to the cents and asked, "How much cents does Miss Peeler have?" Yeah, you guessed it! They all promptly replied in unison, "NONE!"

Apparently, Miss Peeler has no SENSE to ask her class if she has any CENTS!!!! It was all I could to to keep from chuckling - and best of all, they didn't get it that they had agreed that I have no sense, oops cents!

Count your blessings, name them one by one

2010-12-31T22:47:00.002-05:00

Today as we leave a new year, I was contemplating about my year. Sadly, I was only dwelling on the disappointments and things that did not go my way. I was (not so gently) reminded by my family of all the amazing things that God did in my life this year. As we began to list them, I began to feel small as (as usual) God had worked in my life and I know that he will continue to do so.

Here's just a touch of what God did in 2010:

Provided the chance to take a graduate class at CIU (debt free)
A free ticket to Disney World for a day
A trip to visit several dear friends from Uganda who live in St. Louis
Continued blessings in not only a stable job, but one that I love

AND

Provided a beautiful home rent and utilities free for a year! And I must say, the opportunity to get to know a family that is becoming dear to me as I look out for their home.

As we finished up the conversation, I could only think of the hymn - Count Your Blessings. Yes, things will be hard in 2011, but I can rest assured that my God has my best interest in mind as he weaves the story of my life. Here's to praying that your 2011 is filled with many blessings as well!

Count Your Blessings
by Johnson Oatman, Jr.

When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Refrain:
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
*Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
[*And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.]

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.

When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Simon's Cat in 'Santa Claws'

2010-12-20T21:35:00.002-05:00

I love Simon's cat! This Christmas version is pretty funny. However, I think my family's new beagle, Eloise, is more likely to do this to our tree than any of the two cats. Enjoy!

Meant to Be - Steven Curtis Chapman

2010-11-28T21:48:00.001-05:00

You may or may not be familiar with VeggieTales, but in my line of work, I share many of these videos with my class. I just got the newest one, that spins off the story of It's a Wonderful Life. Anyway, this song kinda spoke to me, reminding me that my God has a purpose and a plan for my life. The holidays are hard sometimes because they remind me of what I don't have. I get around family and see others who already happily have their own families, and I have to work hard to be content with where God put me. I'm meant to be here in Dillon loving on other people's children, and I guess right now, I'm meant to be single. One day I'll look back and see the beautiful puzzle pieces that make up my complete life and see how things fit together perfectly. For now though, I'll keep on trusting that God is working on me and will maybe one day fulfill the desires of my heart.

"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Hebrews 13:5,6

Egypt Scrapbook

2010-11-20T22:40:00.002-05:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

So, I'm pretty excited that I finally finished this scrapbook. Not only was this trip in 2008, but I've been working on it all fall. It's my first attempt at an online photo book. I thought it turned out pretty well, if I do say so myself!

WAITING

2010-11-08T22:57:00.006-05:00

I wrote this tonight during my devotions. It kinda sums up what God has done and is doing in my life. I've been feeling a little discouraged lately about where God has my future and it helps sometimes to look back and see what God has already done. If there is anyone out there who is actually still reading this blog, I would covet your prayers as I continue to walk this path!

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WAITING

As a small child, I watched and waited and wondered what God would plan special for my life. I thought about all the awesome things that He would do, but most of all I thought about one very special dream.

Years went by and high school was coming to end, what would I do, where would God take me, and whom would he prepare for me began to go through my mind.

Of course I would study education, what else would prepare me for the one thing I wanted most – to teach my children about him.

Four years went by and college ended and God asked me to wait. No, my dear there is no one here for you. Wait some more and see what I have in store.

So off I went to teach and wait. More and more I wondered what was God up to, when would he answer my petition. Instead, he calmed the many fears I had in me and taught me to walk side by side with him.

Four more years went by and still God asked me to wait. No, my dear, I need you elsewhere right now. So instead of fulfilling my one dream, God said go to Africa and I will show you what I mean.

So off I went to teach overseas. Surely now God, this is what I desire - to teach overseas about you and to walk beside my helpmeet. But, still God said wait, I have more exciting things to show you.

Two more years went by and back to the States I moved. Surely you want me in a big city. That is where he’ll be, I just know. But no God said, my dear I want you back here. This is where you should serve. So again I waited, hoped, and trusted.

So off I went to teach in this small town. I loved on other people’s children. I taught them about Jesus and bandaged their many wounds. I wondered when would it be my turn and again my heart began to break.

Two more years went by and here I am now still waiting. Many days I think I can’t handle this – will God ask me to wait the rest of my life. I don’t think I can do this, I’m not strong enough.

But then I remember the comfort of Psalm 37. He does not forsake his own. He holds me with his right hand. I can confidently wait on the Lord and keep his way, knowing that He alone is my strength in times of trouble and times of waiting.

It Says Right Here – inspired by Susie and Blackjack

2010-10-24T17:39:00.001-04:00

Just stumbled upon this sight! Cartoonist Jim George (who used to draw for Disney) now draws dogs daily. Anyway, enjoy this one that is so true about a cat and a corgi!

It Says Right Here – inspired by Susie and Blackjack

I should have figured this was coming . . .

2010-10-19T21:44:00.005-04:00

One of my students excitedly came in last week and happily reported that there was a mouse in his house. A few days later, I was updated that it was in the garage and his mom had set a trap. Last Friday, I was informed that the mouse had been caught and now had taken up residence in a jar. Yesterday, he talked about his mom bringing it to show after school. To which I wasn't concerned as he was referencing during after school care.

Yes, I shouldn't have been surprised and I should have seen it coming, but I didn't. Well, I'm guessing you've figured out what came today! Today, he excitedly said first thing in the morning, "Guess what I have Miss Peeler?", and withdrew a jar. With, you guessed it . . . a MOUSE! A very small field mouse, which had been dubbed Cutie.

Personally, I don't mind rodents. Well, let me clarify. Nice, tidy rodents that are healthy and you buy at the pet store. Not field mice that are caught in the garage and may be carrying who knows what diseases. Plus, I really didn't want to deal with 10 six/seven year olds all day excited about a mouse visitor. So we marched to the office to call mom (who may or may not have known the mouse came to school), when the school secretary came to our rescue. She also thought he was cute and agreed to mouse sit for the day. Thanks Mrs. Kim!!!!!! You're the best!!!!

I checked on the mouse once during the day when I had my planning period, and was informed that it spent quite a bit of time jumping to the top of the jar. It then fell into so deep a sleep that when the jar was shook, Mrs. Kim was concerned that the mouse had passed on during her watch. Fortunately, it hadn't!!

After nine years of teaching, I should have seen it coming, but oh well, at least it makes another fun story under my belt!!!

2010-09-12T21:45:00.003-04:00

Today I enjoyed walking to church - both morning and evening worship. It was nice to be able to take the time and enjoy the time I spent walking in God's beautiful creation. The thing that got my attention was that I didn't feel rushed. Yeah, I was running late, and yeah, I was still the first person in my SS class :), but aside from that it was nice to be able to enjoy life and not be so busy. I can't wait until it starts getting cooler (not cold, though!). It made me remember all the times I walked places in Uganda and how I wish we were able to do more walking in America. I think people who passed me thought I was a bit strange. We are so programed to think why would I walk if I have a car. I even had two people stop and ask me if I wanted a ride! I think living two blocks away from church will be a nice thing - I can walk most Sundays that are nice and if it happens to rain (or be too cold), I can drive. Which gives me the advantage over Uganda! There it was walk - rain or shine. :o)

Oh, I need to give credit where due for the pic of my church - thanks to whoever put it on our website!

2010-09-06T22:09:00.005-04:00

My friend Stephanie in Texas just shared this with me. I'm excited to try out online scrapbooking for 65% off!! We'll see how it goes. If you're interested in this, it is only good until tomorrow, and you don't have to be in a major city - I just chose the closest big city.

A God thing!

2010-08-30T20:26:00.003-04:00

Like I hinted at before, God is doing some amazing things in my life. Three weeks ago I received a phone call from some acquaintances of mine in Dillon. He is a respected pastor in the PCA and a teacher at RTS Charlotte; she was a teacher in a classical school (kinda intimidating people, till you get to know them). Anyway, they called and wanted to know if I was willing to house sit for them - rent free. Now, this is not your average house sitting. You see, he was going on sabbatical and they would be living in Scotland for the next 11 months while he worked on a book he was writing. So here I am, three weeks later, almost moved into their beautiful home, almost done packing up my apartment, getting ready to put my furniture in my wonderful Father's warehouse, and feeling blessed at what God has provided for me this year. How amazing is that?! I knew things would be tight for me financially this year, but then God poured this blessing on me. I'm so thankful for his care, and now wondering where He is going to lead me next. Part of me wants to consider overseas work again in two years, but part of me knows that I didn't want to go back overseas long term until I was married. So, here I sit content and knowing that God knows my future and hoping He will reveal it in His timing!

A brand new school year . . . and adventures!

2010-08-30T20:09:00.002-04:00

Sooo, I've kinda dropped off the radar the past few months. God has definitely been working in my life. He's been teaching me that He does know what is best for my life, and even if I might think otherwise is better, HIS plan always is. Just as I begin to despair that I've been forgotten, He reaches tenderly into my life and drops me another, Yes, I love you and love you passionately moment. Take this summer for instant. Many of you may not know that I was getting to know a young man in hopes that he would be the one I would marry. While, he was a godly man, he just wasn't the right one for me. As I was processing all this, I began to wonder why God would allow me to go through this. However, I have gained much knowledge and am glad for what I learned during this time. Although it was bittersweet in that I had a glimpse of hope in one day being married. Well, God's not finished with me and has many more adventures to bring me though. So as I begin a new school year, I'm looking forward to seeing what God is up to!

#550. Surviving church as a single.

2010-03-18T21:21:00.002-04:00

Okay, I have to admit this totally cracked me up . . . I can't tell you how true and how hard I laughed on some of these! It did lead to the discovery that I go to a very single sensitive church! Enjoy!

#550. Surviving church as a single.

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Snow!

2010-03-01T21:53:00.003-05:00

Two weeks ago it snowed here in SC! I was home for the weekend, so I was able to enjoy the snow with my family. Enjoy the pics!

Plus, if this wasn't enough fun, the weather powers that be are forecasting more winter weather for tomorrow night! Maybe I'll be posting even more snow photos!

Small Towns!

2010-02-21T21:26:00.003-05:00

If you've never lived in a small town, then sit back and enjoy the cultural lesson, and if you have, then I know you will be nodding in agreement! When I moved to Dillon, I quickly realized that everyone knew everyone's business. However, I naively thought that, I'm not part of one of the major families in Dillon, I have no life (of interest to local gossip) and why would anyone want to talk about me? Seriously, I'm about as boring as they get. Although one of my co-workers does try to tease me about the alleged "two years in Africa" - and what was I really up to?! :o)

So imagine my surprise at church this morning when several people, that I know but not that well, greeted me with, "So, I hear you are going back to school?"

Some of you may not know, but I've decided to work on my masters at CIU this summer (and the following summers . . . ) It took me a while to make this decision and I've only told people close to me (who wouldn't have run into these ladies at church), my headmaster, and my pastor (whom I was asking for a reference).

I responded back to one of the ladies who knew, how on earth does everyone know this? Her reply, "Girl, you don't know this town!"

Well, this girl is slowly learning about this town and is now in fear and trepidation about what will happen if she actually goes out on a date/ gets married! Maybe one day I'll be able to post an ending for that!

Valentine's Day

2010-02-11T21:14:00.003-05:00

It was my turn to share in morning staff devotions this week, and our theme this year has been our testimonies/ what is God up to in your life. I shared briefly on Tuesday about why God sent me to Africa - which was to change and mold me. I ended on the note that I left very happy to leave and return to the U.S.

Wednesday, I focused more on the longer I was away, the more I’ve seen the value of what God did in my life while I was there. Seeing as this Sunday is Valentine's Day, I wanted to try to tie this in as well, but well, I don't exactly have any experience with dating/marriage! I'm really not the best candidate to talk about this, but I am an excellent candidate to talk about God's unconditional love.

While the media might hype about this being a special day for couples/romance, as a believer, I can use this day to realize that God is seeking and pursuing me (and His bride, the church). I can look back just during my time in Uganda and see God’s unconditional love pursuing me throughout the entire time. He was pursuing me and saying I love you while I had no family there; he was pursuing me when my luggage was having a week’s holiday in the UK and my teammates who were practically strangers reached out to me; he was pursuing me when I was afraid I’d get Malaria, Ebola, (insert other weird African diseases); he was pursuing me when all my friends left after the first school year and I thought I was alone; he was pursuing me when the bus from Rwanda crashed. I saw how he does have plans for me, awesome plans for me (even though I try to keep telling him my plans are better.;o))

I’ve felt fortunate to grow closer to Him as I cried out to him daily. While I might not know earthly valentine type love, I can def. say I know the heavenly love of my gracious and amazing Father. It reminds me of what Matthew 10:29-31 says: "Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows."

So Happy Valentines Day everyone and take time this weekend to remember who our true Lover is!

A special gift

2009-12-18T22:57:00.007-05:00

So today was the last day of school for the Christmas holidays! The last day usually means a party, presents, and plenty of excitement! As expected, my kids were up for all of that today. However, the present part can be difficult for me. As the teacher, the children are so excited about the gift they brought me and of course I make a big deal of each one, holding it up, etc. I don't like to be the center of attention, but over the years, I learned that this is a very important to the children and if it isn't done first, they are continually asking when do I get to open gifts.

However, what I love most about gifts from first graders is the commentary you get with it! Parents would be mortified if they knew what their child told me. For example, I was told last year that the necklace I was given had a matching bracelet, but mom liked it too much, so she kept it. Even this week, one of my little ones told me that I didn't get the gingerbread mix to go with the candle because it cost too much. And before school today, one of my boys was totally taking my present out the bag and showing it to every teacher that passed! But none of that (or any future stories) will surpass what happened today!

As you might of guessed, all of this is leading to a really great story! So I finally succumbed to the gift opening process and I picked up the first box with a beautiful bow. Now I know this kid always gives great gifts (based on my birthday) and so I have to admit that I was slightly excited about opening it. So, I finally get the tape off the box, gently open the tissue, and what to my surprise (and horror) do I see? A three pack pair of men's boxer-briefs. Size med, black. I had no idea what to do! I knew I couldn't hold this up and ohh and ahh with a straight face, and I was pretty sure this gift belonged to the older brother. Oops! So, I quickly moved on to the rest of the gifts. Since the children were busy doing a craft at the same time, most of them didn't notice that I didn't tell them. I felt bad for the child though. How was I to explain why I didn't make a big deal out of his gift, much less explain to him that I wasn't keeping it? After having a good laugh out in the hall with the other first grade teacher, we decided that I should just let the child know that I thought I had the wrong present and please take it back to mom. I have to say, this is the first (and only, I hope) time I have ever received men's boxers!

End of story: the older sister brought the real present after school. Which happened to be a lovely matching fleece hat and scarf in our school color.

Oh, but if I could have only seen the mom's face when she realized she had sent her child's teacher boxers for Christmas!

Just in case you're up for a good laugh!

2009-12-16T23:04:00.002-05:00

http://www.challies.com/archives/churchmerch/rich-daddy-god.php

Ahh, the joys of working with first graders!

2009-11-22T21:51:00.003-05:00

Like before (when I was in Uganda), I've begun collecting great quotes from first graders! Hope they amuse you as much as they amuse me!

If that kind of fish’s eyes get red, then they are gonna die in a few weeks. Cuz mine did and his eye got really big and almost exploded!

That fruit roll-up was fattening.

I’m gonna tell you something that you might not like,, “Never give wedgies.”

I’m a vegetarian and my mom said this was a vegetarian snack (holds up ritz pb crackers).
Me: What is a vegetarian?
Child: someone who eats healthy.

I have a weird taste in my mouth from a cream bar. I haven’t eaten one of them since I was little, like five

We have three homeworks? That’s so much, not to do, but to write in the homework notebook!

The highest grade of a person I know is in college. Well I haven’t actually seen him, but I know a person who knows him.

This ship right here reminds me of something . . . . what? It just reminds me of something.

My jaw is hurting, and my foot is itching and my nose is itching.

I’ve got a splinter in my foot. It’s already in my skin.

When I was being born, my arm got stuck in my mom and they had to cut it off.

Miss Peeler you might think my grandparents are a little over the hedge, they really are crazy!

When asked about my snack, I told them it was fruit roll up for grownups. One child replied, oh is it like beer? Oops!

My first graders think my first name is Miss Heather

Have a great week!

Happy Reformation Day!

2009-10-31T11:44:00.001-04:00

"Unless I am convinced by Scripture, or by clear reasoning, that I am in error - for popes and councils have often erred and contradicted themselves - I cannot recant, for I am subject to the Scriptures I have quoted; my conscience is captive to the Word of God. Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise. So help me God. Amen" - Martin Luther

Citadel vs. Furman

2009-10-30T21:08:00.005-04:00

Last weekend we went down to Charleston as a family to see one of the home Citadel games. We stopped at a fabulous restaurant called Fleet Landing (to celebrate my 30th birthday!) for lunch. Fabulous . . . totally recommend this place.

We loved how the birds ignored the signs!

Mmmmm . . . shrimp and grits (absolutely best I've ever eaten)

Sadly, we couldn't get a family photo . . . so here's the girls :o)

And then . . . on to the game! Enjoy the pics!

Check out that ending score! Go dogs!

Here's the link to my facebook album which has all the photos . . . enjoy!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=337468&id=595940092&l=3907faa6d3

My Papa

2009-10-15T22:46:00.004-04:00

Two weeks ago from this Sunday, I learned that my Papa had died. One week ago, we buried him. Tonight, I miss him. I'll miss having him call me little girl and getting bouquets of daffodils in the springtime from his yard. I think I'll even miss his quirky habits that we used to joke about, and for those that understand, I want a copy of his "book". I think the most wonderful comment I ever received from him was when I arrived back from two years in Africa. He gave me a big hug and said he was so happy to have me back in the US. I'll treasure that the rest of my life, I think. I don't know how holidays will be without him, but I'm thankful he loved Jesus and that one day I'll see him again. Please keep praying for my Nana and the rest of my family as we morn his passing.

Here he is with Nana and Judah (one of my cousin's youngest son)

Contemplating on Growing Up and Other Ramblings

2009-10-12T22:46:00.003-04:00

Now that I'm back in the States, I made the decision this year to start taking dance classes again. My excuse was that I needed exercise, but the truth is, I don't think I will ever grow tired of being able to let my mind go and dance with joy! So every Monday, I drive over to the big city of Florence, where I once again pretend to be a ballerina again. It's been quite an exhilerating experience to say the least. My body hasn't quite forgotten everything, and fortunately there are some other "old" dancers in this class who understand the romance that we have with ballet and yet, the fact that our bodies can't quite do what we want them to do!

Tonight as I was speaking to another young lady in the class who is still in high school (and our grandmothers are good friends), I realized that this was the last class I would take in my twenties. Next week when class rolls around, I will be the grand old age of 30. It hardly seems possible that I am that old. Am I really a grown up now? I still feel the same, but yet, I have gained wisdom in my twenties that I wouldn't part with for the world. Anybody close to me will tell you that I have been struggling with the fact that I am turning 30. Not because that's old, but because I'm not where I had imagined myself to be when I was younger. I was sure that I would be married and have, at the very least three kids. But God had other plans. And as we all know, God's plans are always best.

My grandfather passed away last week and it was during his funeral that I realized something mind-boggling important! It's not so much what I want or what I think lines up with what the world expects of me (even the Christian world), but it's have I been faithful to God. Will people look at my life and know that I'm passionately heads over heals in love with Jesus. Am I carrying out the gospel to the fullest that I am able? Is my life pointing others to Christ? If so, then I can be content with where God has me - even if no one else understands. It doesn't mean that I'm excited to be single, because I can't honestly say that yet. But I can say, today God's made me single, so I can be content with where He's put me. So here's to growing up and old with our faithful Savior, who never lets us down, and is passionately in love with us!

A Tale of a Paranoid Kitty

2009-09-01T19:50:00.006-04:00

This morning I woke up to wet splotches on my carpet. Apparently my air conditioning was having issues, so my landlord was going to send someone over to fix the problem. Hence, scary strange men were going to enter my apartment while I wasn't there. Well, scary strange men to my scaredy chicken cat! But, I figured that she could handle it. Apparently, she couldn't. Here's what I pieced together about what happened while I was at school.

Said scary men entered my home. Elsie wakes up from nap on couch. Said scary men enter hallway to check out leak. Elsie realizes that her Mommie has not entered the house, but said scary men. In a state of panic, Elsie jumps off the couch, misjudges where she's jumping and runs into the ribbon and bow bag that I left out. In said state of paranoia, Elsie panics in the bag, gets tangled up, and takes it with her. As she gets to the hallway, said bag tears and is abandoned right near the wet splotchies. Please note below the state of said bag:

Said men are probably startled by the strange action of tenants animal and will probably refuse to come back. Elsie then tears up the stairs, terrified, only to discover that part of the bag has come with her. She hunkers down in the bedroom doorway, and meows pathetically until she is rescued. This may have been only a short time or it could of been over six hours (this part of the story is kinda fuzzy). Once I arrive home, I realize what's happened to the poor baby. While I did immediately scoop her up and love on her, I didn't remove the bag quite yet. Being the unsympathetic Mommie that I am, and after I died with laughter, I made her pose with the bag so you could see what she had done to herself.

Here is the piece that was around her neck and the piece with the rest of the bag! Poor Traumatized Kitty!

You'll be happy to note that after our photo shoot, I gave her lots of cuddles and lovin' . . . she's all over her trauma now and is seeming to enjoy her evening :)

PLEASE mom, can I come in?

2009-08-26T20:33:00.004-04:00

Reflections on transition . . .

2009-04-23T16:24:00.000-04:00

Well, it’s been a pretty rough ride the last eleven months! I know I haven’t blogged like I should, but if I had a blog for every unwritten blog in my mind, you would know way more than you would ever care to know about me. :o) This ride of returning to the United States can only be compared to a roller coaster. Each time I would think that I had conquered this thing called transition, it would take me for a spin. In fact, although it might be almost May, I still have my “moments”. For example a few weeks ago, I was collecting two dollars from each child in my class for something and one child brought me quarters – eight of them. I looked at that bag and looked and kept wondering why I had too much money. Well, I was trying to count them like shillings instead of quarters! I felt so embarrassed that I couldn’t even count quarters. I could tell loads of stories of how many reverse culture shock moments I’ve had. Who knew it would be just as hard coming back to America?

. . . and leaving Uganda

2009-04-23T16:22:00.000-04:00

When I left Uganda, I was so ready to be home. I was emotionally drained and tired of living in a third world country. I was quite happy with never going back. Now that I have eleven months behind me, I guess that absence does make the heart grow fonder! I’ve realized how much I did learn while being there and the amazing things that God did for me. Now, I would absolutely love to take a trip back there, but doubting that I ever will. I find that Uganda is never far from my mind, but I try not to talk about it much simply because I don’t want people to get tired of me always referring about Africa. So, any time you want to hear more – please ask me – I would LOVE to talk!

. . . and the school year.

2009-04-23T16:15:00.000-04:00

School this year has also been an interesting journey. I was asked to come back to Dillon Christian School and teach first grade. I’ve enjoyed this year (I do have a wonderful class!!!), but am really looking forward to next year. I think my transition has taken so much out of me that all I could do was the next thing. I felt like I didn’t really regain my joy in teaching until March. Now I’m having so much fun and I’m so sad to have to say good bye to these kids in three weeks! Actually to be truthful, there’s four and a half weeks left, but I will be chaperoning the senior mission trip (to Jamaica) May 19 – May 26. So once I leave on that, I won’t be back until the last day of school. Look for more updates about the Jamaica trip later!

Elsie

2009-01-21T16:12:00.000-05:00

So, I have to do a blog about my nine month old kitty! She's got the most interesting personality and it cracks me up all the time. Her favorite toy is a piece of curling ribbon left over from Christmas. Seriously, she carries it around the house and drops it near me so that I can play with her. All I have to say is, Elsie - where's your ribbon, go get your ribbon - and she will bound off and bring it to me. Most mornings I wake up and she is staring at me expectantly with the ribbon right beside us.

Here she is on her new (cheap) toy (you know it's cheap, when you have to build it!) - playing with more curling ribbon, of course!

New Year, New Attempt (at blogging)

2009-01-21T16:00:00.000-05:00

Well, after being fussed at and encouraged to blog some more, here goes! (honestly, I've had so many posts, they just never left my head!)

Sooo, I'm starting off slow. It snowed on Tuesday and we had a nice day off of school and a delayed start today. Elsie and I spent the day resting and getting over colds (yeah, I think she had one too, as she's been sneezing a lot). She wouldn't have anything to do with the snow (or the outside), but loved watching it fall. Enjoy the photos!

Yeah, those two glowing things under the rail - that's Elsie!

Crazy Monday!

2008-10-13T15:22:00.000-04:00

Have you ever thought about how good God is? I should have had a lousy day at school. Many of my kids were complaining about being sick, one was absent, and one went home early because of being sick. However, I've been in a really great mood. I'm so thankful for God's faithfulness to me and how he takes care of us. Praise God for His unfailing love and faithfulness!!!!!

On a more somber note, I've found out that a teacher at Heritage is very sick (not sure of details, but it doesn't look good) and trying to get back to the UK. Please pray for this man, that God would be gracious to him during this time, and for those assisting him. Thanks!

Women in the Church Retreat

2008-10-11T21:58:00.000-04:00

Last weekend was our Presbytery's women's conference. This was an amazing time of fellowship and renewing my heart. I came away refreshed and ready to tackle the job of teaching first grade. Sue Jakes was our speaker - she spoke on Telling God's Story to the Next Generation. (Interestingly enough, I met Sue's daughter Joanna in Kampala. The world of believers gets smaller and smaller!) The Lord really used Sue's teaching to speak to me.

Backing up to the week before, it had been a pretty rough week with my kids and I was struggling some with reentry stress. Believe it or not, transitioning back to life in America can be hard. It was good to get away to the mountains of North Carolina with fellow believers. It did feel a little strange as this was the first year I was going with a different church. Now that I live in Dillon, I've joined First Presbyterian and am enjoying getting to know everyone in this church.

Saturday morning I had the privilege to share about what God taught me in Uganda. How I love sharing about God's grace and what he's been teaching me. Here's a few photos of our trip!

Mom, Sue Jakes, me, Hannah

Indelible Grace

2008-10-11T21:42:00.001-04:00

At the end of September I found out that one of my favorite musicians, Indelible Grace, would be in South Carolina. Hannah and I took a road trip to Clinton, South Carolina, where we met up with Daniel. It was a fun time of hanging out at Presbyterian College and hearing great hymns of the faith! If you've never heard any of their music, check out their website - http://www.indeliblegrace.com/.

Here I am in the car eating hazelnut gelato! Yum - :o)!

Hannah and I randomly stopped in Columbia to make a phone call and there was an authentic gelato store run by Italians. What a nice treat to have a little taste of Africa! For those unaware, there is a large group of Italians who have a grocery store (and ice cream!) in Kampala. Boy, I miss that gelato!

I take it back!

2008-09-17T16:16:00.000-04:00

So for the past, oh I don't know, year, I've been anticipating fall. I haven't had a fall season since 2005, and I thought I was soooo ready. However, I take it back! Today was in the low 70's with some rain, and I tell you what - I was fur-eeze-ing! Course some of that had to do with the arctic zone air conditioner in my classroom! What am I going to do when it actually gets cold? Maybe it won't be so bad when I have heat inside!

Speaking of my classroom, my kids are slowing getting into a routine - they even say the cute stuff here in America. Which of course, I can't help posting - which is a good note to end on!

"We went to the Chinese restaurant to eat and they sang "Happy Birthday" in Spanish!"

Maybe you don't find this funny, but the way it was said to me was hysterical! Happy Wednesday!

Remembering . . .

2008-09-11T15:54:00.000-04:00

Today's 9/11 and when I was pondering all that happened this morning before school, I realized that most of the kids in my class weren't even born. That really made me stop and think - this will always be history to them. Not something that happened in their lifetime. Makes me feel old! Of course with children this age, you don't really mention this kind of thing in class, but a few of my kids knew about it. Or at least they knew what they had been told - which was today was a day to be patriotic and celebrate America. So in the words of my kids, Happy Red, White, and Blue Day! :o)

A new beginning . . .

2008-09-09T17:31:00.000-04:00

It seems strange that here I am starting a new blog. A second blog. Who'd of thought that I would have two blogs? Not me. Anyway, welcome! Hope you enjoy (and make sense) all of my ramblings!