Where to start...... how about with school? This week my students' personalities have really begun to shine, and as they do I am discovering many new things about them. I am learning who loves to talk and be social, who is more quite and reserved, and who is really going to push me to be a better teacher. I have one student in particular that I feel God is going to use to show me how to really reach out in love and touch a life. I know this student is going to present many challenges this year and test the boundaries of my patience. As my pastor was preaching this morning I felt God tugging at my heart to pray for this student and my attitude towards them. This week I am going to go the extra mile for this student. I am looking forward to seeing how the Lord will work on my heart and reveal new ways for me to become a more effective teacher.
On Friday I felt as though I had a personal aid all day, and maybe that is because I did. Since my sister Jenna is here visiting this week I thought it would be fun for her to come in and meet my class. She was able to spend the entire day with me, and it made for a really special day! Jenna read a story to the kids and answered many questions during a Q & A session. The students loved meeting her and spending time with her. They were fascinated by how tall and beautiful she is. While I was teaching she was busy grading the papers I let pile up this week. I think she saved me about two hours worth of grading. Too bad I can't have her around everyday!
While my baby sister was here I wanted to take her wedding dress shopping. What a fun day it was. We started our day at a small local bridal salon called Mia's. Trying on wedding dresses is like a real-life princess experience, and every girls dream. We were ushered into a room full of beautiful wedding dresses to select the ones that Jenna would like to try. Each dress made her face light up and I could tell with every dress we slipped on her she felt more and more like a princesses. After trying on several gorgeous gowns, we may have found the dress for her. I would describe it as well as post pictures, but Brady might be reading this, and of course the dress has to stay a surprise. The wedding is still a ways away, so she will keep looking, but I am thrilled I was able to be a part of helping my baby sister find her dress.
Jenna and I out to lunch between wedding dress appointments!
My time this weekend with Jenna was super special, and it made me realize how much I cherish our friendship and spending girl time together. I also came to the realization that I did not take advantage of spending enough time with her while we were living in the same town. Sisters are special, and I feel so lucky to have one. This weekend was a reminder from God not to take advantage of our relationship. Even though we are family I am learning that I need to set aside time to work on continually building and strengthening my relationship my sister.This week I am looking forward to a couple of things starting up this week. The first is Boot Camp! I know I might be crazy, but I love the intense workouts with fellow teachers in the outdoors. This will also help with preparing for the half-marathon I signed myself up for in October.
The second thing I am looking forward to starting a women's bible study on Tuesday. Since I have moved away from my friends and family I have been searching for a way to get plugged in and meet new people. My heart has been a little lonely for some girlfriends, and I am looking forward to meeting some new women to forge friendships with as well as diving into the Word.
All in all it should be a good week with lots of things to look forward to! I'll be back soon to let you know how it's all going.