Here it is the last day of December, not to mention the last day of the year, and I haven't written anything this month. Our calendar has been packed with celebration, so why don't I feel like writing? Even this post is just an attempt to check the "December box" with a self-imposed obligatory update. Two words capture the Christmas holiday season in my mind: bitter and sweet. For me, it is so different from Thanksgiving where the overwhelming theme is one of gratitude.
We started off the month with a luxurious overnight in Dallas celebrating our anniversary. The hotel staff greeted us with enormous strawberries completely covered in dark chocolate. Kyle insisted that I should try them, as they were beyond delicious, but I just couldn't. Bitter and sweet do not mix well in my mind (or my taste buds). Still, I wonder if I'm missing something. Is there something profoundly good in the mixture of these two "tastes".
So much of life is a combination of bitter and sweet moments and the Christmas season seems to magnify this experience for me. With all of the joy and festivity (sweetness) surrounding the holidays, I tend to be sad this time of year, especially mindful of great loss (bitterness) in our lives. Every time I turn on the computer or the television, I read another story of tragedy and suffering. Just yesterday, I read a blog post of a young mother suffering well; I was stunned as she wove the bitterness of a life crushing disease with the sweetness of her faith in Christ. Unlike this dear saint, I am relatively untouched by the harsh realities of life in a fallen world or of a broken body. Her testimony of faith (see below) including the strength and peace that comes only from the Lord Jesus encourages my soul as I anticipate 2015.
Happy New Year, friends! May we taste the sweetness of God's amazing grace in the year ahead and be transformed by "the hope of Christmas".
http://myjourneywithibc.blogspot.com/2014/12/the-hope-of-christmas.html?m=1
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Monday, November 24, 2014
Teach Me to Number My Days
Christmas cards have been ordered. Sparkling lights brighten the outside of our home and tubs of decorations fill the inside just waiting for a team of girls to go to work. The tree is up and Christmas music adds festivity. It's Thanksgiving break and we're so thankful for the week off-- including plenty of rest and time with extended family. My oldest daughter and her friends fill our house with delicious baked treats as they try out new recipes. The scene is picture perfect in many ways and I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the rich blessings around us. So..... why do I feel so bah humbug as we welcome another holiday season? Even the annual tradition of watching "Elf" felt odd to me this year. It's not the typical to-do list, the shopping requests or the commercialization of Christmas that gets to me. I think it's the passing of time and the increased speed of each year that gives me pause. I keep thinking, "Didn't we JUST welcome the New Year?!" "2014-- where did it go?" "It seems we just celebrated Thanksgiving in Katy, Texas." These thoughts go on and on as I feel like it should be spring or early summer, NOT quickly approaching winter already! And, whatever happened to fall in Texas?! It's my favorite season and it lasted close to 10 days with the late departure of unwelcome heat and the early arrival of freezing weather. Of course the year was a full one-- we savored the busy days! We have multiple photo albums of memories reminding us of the Lord's goodness to us. I have no regrets. Still, I'm amazed by how quickly the weeks passed in 2014. It's as if the planets raced around the sun in their orbit making the seasons shorter somehow.
Maybe, this perspective is a normal mindset for those entering the mid-forties.... a midlife shift of sorts? Is this what they call a mid-life crisis? In the recent weeks, our church family welcomed two sweet baby girls and a baby boy to this world with great joy. At the same time, we celebrated the home-going of a dear sister-in-Christ as she entered the glories of heaven. Both beginning and end of life give us pause and cause us to offer much praise and thanksgiving to God. While these precious babies know none of the sufferings of life in a fallen world as they begin their days on earth, our amazing friend, who endured suffering through the various seasons of life, knows only peace in presence of her Savior as she also knows none of the sadness of this world anymore. Unlike these dear souls, I am in the middle of life on earth and all too aware of the tragic and horrific circumstances filling the news of our days. Thankfully, I am acquainted with the One who numbers our days and who rules over the the seasons with unending faithfulness. I rest in His care as He holds my days with steadfast love.
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want ......... Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever." from Psalm 23
Maybe, this perspective is a normal mindset for those entering the mid-forties.... a midlife shift of sorts? Is this what they call a mid-life crisis? In the recent weeks, our church family welcomed two sweet baby girls and a baby boy to this world with great joy. At the same time, we celebrated the home-going of a dear sister-in-Christ as she entered the glories of heaven. Both beginning and end of life give us pause and cause us to offer much praise and thanksgiving to God. While these precious babies know none of the sufferings of life in a fallen world as they begin their days on earth, our amazing friend, who endured suffering through the various seasons of life, knows only peace in presence of her Savior as she also knows none of the sadness of this world anymore. Unlike these dear souls, I am in the middle of life on earth and all too aware of the tragic and horrific circumstances filling the news of our days. Thankfully, I am acquainted with the One who numbers our days and who rules over the the seasons with unending faithfulness. I rest in His care as He holds my days with steadfast love.
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want ......... Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever." from Psalm 23
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Old Blog, New Name
For some time now, the name of my blog has bothered me---"Teacher's Notes". Originally, I started writing to keep notes while teaching in Africa, kind of a travel blog for family and friends back home. I never intended to continue writing after the summer of 2012. However, in God's providence, the "notes" continued following Dad's tragic accident and untimely death. Then, in the midst of a new season of parenting multiple teenagers, the words seemed to flow even more. Still, I'm not trying to TEACH anything to those who stumble across this blog, so the name seems unfitting. Sure, I'm a teacher, but I have no intention of sharing information from my classroom. My teaching profession is just one of the many aspects of life.
I've considered some questions to come up with a more appropriate name: Why do I write and what is the purpose? Is it just an online diary of sorts? As one who is prone to wander from the Lord in my thoughts, words and deeds, just as a sheep wanders from the fold, I hope my writing reflects a journey of stumbling faith in the midst of this broken world and mostly a faithful Shepherd who continually protects, guides and sustains me. I hope the grace and mercy of the Lord shines through my weakness and that fellow stumblers will be encouraged to seek Christ as well. In those moments when I feel the most vulnerable, such as middle of the night anxiousness, (most especially at my father's bedside during his final hours) "the Lord is my shepherd" plays over and over and over in my mind and heart. No matter the role-- teacher, mother, wife or friend--- I am no more than a needy sinner (a sheep) in need of the steadfast love and unending faithfulness of the Lord Jesus. His forgiving mercy and abundant goodness should be the theme of my writing. So much of life is confidential and not appropriate to share in a blog, but my journey with the Lord, in the midst of it all, is an open book and one that I will continue to record if the Lord wills.
"Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever; and his faithfulness to all generations." Psalm 100: 3-5
" Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43
I've considered some questions to come up with a more appropriate name: Why do I write and what is the purpose? Is it just an online diary of sorts? As one who is prone to wander from the Lord in my thoughts, words and deeds, just as a sheep wanders from the fold, I hope my writing reflects a journey of stumbling faith in the midst of this broken world and mostly a faithful Shepherd who continually protects, guides and sustains me. I hope the grace and mercy of the Lord shines through my weakness and that fellow stumblers will be encouraged to seek Christ as well. In those moments when I feel the most vulnerable, such as middle of the night anxiousness, (most especially at my father's bedside during his final hours) "the Lord is my shepherd" plays over and over and over in my mind and heart. No matter the role-- teacher, mother, wife or friend--- I am no more than a needy sinner (a sheep) in need of the steadfast love and unending faithfulness of the Lord Jesus. His forgiving mercy and abundant goodness should be the theme of my writing. So much of life is confidential and not appropriate to share in a blog, but my journey with the Lord, in the midst of it all, is an open book and one that I will continue to record if the Lord wills.
"Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever; and his faithfulness to all generations." Psalm 100: 3-5
" Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Calculating 20 Years
We've seen a couple of movies this week relating to the theme of marriage, both including great infidelity--- In one of the stories the marriage was redeemed by God's grace and in the other it was broken. As I look back over the years, I'm especially thankful for God's faithfulness and his goodness to us. While our blessings are countless, I've done some calculating of the details of God's provision for our family. It is only by his grace that we anticipate our 20th anniversary together-- on December 10th.
What goes into twenty years of marriage?
1 faithful Lord-- Christ Jesus
2 needy sinners- thankful for the mercy of God
3 beautiful daughters who are growing in grace
4 cities-- Jacksonville, suburban Philadelphia, Tampa, Ft. Worth
5 zipcodes (including apartment living)
6 churches-- under the shepherding care of loving elders
7 pets-- lots of dead fish
8 cars-- many car payments and repairs
9 countries visited-- expanding our vision of world and the kingdom of God
10 years in TEXAS-- ten more on the east coast
11 employers/job titles between the two of us (including security detail, UPS and Barnes and Noble)
12 years with Kelly-- blessed by her joyful and abiding presence
13 summers hiking in Crested Butte
14 years of pastoral ministry (many more including youth ministry and young life)
15 years with sweet Caroline-- blessed by her depth, thoughtfulness and passionate ways
16 years as homeowners (3 homes)-- mowing various lawns with the SAME lawnmower
17 years as parents (nearly)-- blessed by Katie Belle's strength, determination and grace
18 anniversaries celebrated at home (pizza, finals, packing to move, & Lonesome Dove Bistro)
19 family vacations to CB (including ski trips)
20 glorious years together
Kyle, it's been quite a journey. I'm crazy thankful for the blessing of doing life by your side.
I love you very much!
Your Bee
What goes into twenty years of marriage?
1 faithful Lord-- Christ Jesus
2 needy sinners- thankful for the mercy of God
3 beautiful daughters who are growing in grace
4 cities-- Jacksonville, suburban Philadelphia, Tampa, Ft. Worth
5 zipcodes (including apartment living)
6 churches-- under the shepherding care of loving elders
7 pets-- lots of dead fish
8 cars-- many car payments and repairs
9 countries visited-- expanding our vision of world and the kingdom of God
10 years in TEXAS-- ten more on the east coast
11 employers/job titles between the two of us (including security detail, UPS and Barnes and Noble)
12 years with Kelly-- blessed by her joyful and abiding presence
13 summers hiking in Crested Butte
14 years of pastoral ministry (many more including youth ministry and young life)
15 years with sweet Caroline-- blessed by her depth, thoughtfulness and passionate ways
16 years as homeowners (3 homes)-- mowing various lawns with the SAME lawnmower
17 years as parents (nearly)-- blessed by Katie Belle's strength, determination and grace
18 anniversaries celebrated at home (pizza, finals, packing to move, & Lonesome Dove Bistro)
19 family vacations to CB (including ski trips)
20 glorious years together
Kyle, it's been quite a journey. I'm crazy thankful for the blessing of doing life by your side.
I love you very much!
Your Bee
Monday, September 22, 2014
Look Up
During a fun day in the classroom, I kept thinking to myself, "Was it just a dream that I was in the cool, colorful, beautiful mountains of Colorado just yesterday?" The miracle of flight completely astounds me! (I could write a whole post on the experience and luxury of air travel, including early morning/late night hours spent people watching in the terminal where thousands of heads are bowed down to cellular devices.) After an uneventful arrival last night, one of my sweet students greeted me this morning with a question that melted me: "Mrs. Oliphint, what did you see in Colorado?" When I mentioned the colorful leaves, the mountains, a waterfall, and the valley she followed up with additional interest beyond her 5 years, "Did you see any rivers?" I love my job!!!
This lovely weekend included three of my very favorite things in life: my Mom, Crested Butte and hiking. I am SO very thankful for the blessing of time together while also enjoying the beauty of golden hiking trails in Crested Butte. To keep from stumbling along the mountain path, I spent a good bit of time with my eyes tuned into the uneven rocky soil, often missing the glorious beauty surrounding me. I kept reminding myself to pause, look up and take a photo in the midst the (sometimes exhausting) trail. Some of the most beautiful images were directly above my head.
At the end of our first day together and after a delicious meal with a friend, Mom and I walked her dogs after dark. Once again, the desire to look up was overwhelming. A crisp fall night in the mountains included a display of stars unlike any other. Millions of stars shined brightly in the blackest of black skies. I was stunned with thanksgiving to God for his greatness and majesty as I considered the vastness of his creation and the smallness of creatures like me. These reminders to look up are symbolic of the lessons I am learning throughout life. In the midst of uneven and challenging circumstances, I have to remind myself to look up and to trust in the Lord in the daily details of life. Similar to the glorious beauty above my head while surrounded by an aspen grove or a starlit sky, the greatness, goodness and glory of the Lord is there to behold when I raise my gaze to him. Similar to the hiking trail, my tendency is to keep my focus on things below and to navigate this world with careful steps. However, I'm confident that joy and peace in Christ comes only from looking up to him and to his kingdom.
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light and kings to the brightness of your dawn. Lift up your eyes and look about you." Isaiah 60:1-4
This lovely weekend included three of my very favorite things in life: my Mom, Crested Butte and hiking. I am SO very thankful for the blessing of time together while also enjoying the beauty of golden hiking trails in Crested Butte. To keep from stumbling along the mountain path, I spent a good bit of time with my eyes tuned into the uneven rocky soil, often missing the glorious beauty surrounding me. I kept reminding myself to pause, look up and take a photo in the midst the (sometimes exhausting) trail. Some of the most beautiful images were directly above my head.
At the end of our first day together and after a delicious meal with a friend, Mom and I walked her dogs after dark. Once again, the desire to look up was overwhelming. A crisp fall night in the mountains included a display of stars unlike any other. Millions of stars shined brightly in the blackest of black skies. I was stunned with thanksgiving to God for his greatness and majesty as I considered the vastness of his creation and the smallness of creatures like me. These reminders to look up are symbolic of the lessons I am learning throughout life. In the midst of uneven and challenging circumstances, I have to remind myself to look up and to trust in the Lord in the daily details of life. Similar to the glorious beauty above my head while surrounded by an aspen grove or a starlit sky, the greatness, goodness and glory of the Lord is there to behold when I raise my gaze to him. Similar to the hiking trail, my tendency is to keep my focus on things below and to navigate this world with careful steps. However, I'm confident that joy and peace in Christ comes only from looking up to him and to his kingdom.
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light and kings to the brightness of your dawn. Lift up your eyes and look about you." Isaiah 60:1-4
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Savoring the Insantiy
With 3 school weeks under our belt, our family has settled into a season of organized chaos. Just last week, after a full day in kindergarten, I barely made it to a middle school volleyball game in time when my oldest called from her tennis match and asked me to take her to get her car, so that she could make the first home football game. By the time I got to the tennis courts (at another high school), she had finished her match and was already in route to the game with friends (due to a communication break down) with her car left in the school parking lot. Naturally, her Dad and I picked up her car. After dropping Kyle at the high school, I drove through the take out line at Golden Chick on my way home. Having left the house at 6:30 in the morning, I found myself sitting in a long drive through line behind assorted pick-up trucks at 7:30 p.m. As I considered the lifestyle of a modern day family with two parents working outside the home, I found myself amused, while also exhausted. Many days, it's just not pretty, but from the world's perspective, we are living the life! This typical Thursday is not an unusual scenario for our family, let alone a great number of families in the midst of a teenage season of life. Now that we have a third driver, strangely, there are evenings when I have no idea of the whereabouts of our oldest daughter. From school to sports to babysitting to social outings, her presence in our home has become a treasure!
Several years ago, I was a stay-at-home mother with little girls constantly underfoot. I tended to nag and complain about too many hours of TV and too little family activity. Often, I bemoaned a mundane lifestyle where I put less than 5,000 miles on my car annually; we just stayed home. We didn't send our girls to "Mother's Day Out" or preschool, so we were always together. An exciting family event was pizza/movie night. Now, with the girls constantly scattered here and there, I find myself savoring the times when everyone is gathered around the television. While I can count on one hand, the number of date nights Kyle and I shared during the first 5 years of parenting, the teenage years include an abundance of time with just the two of us together. This Friday night was one of those occasions and we chose a busy, family friendly taco place. We were entertained by the adorable chaos surrounding us. A chatty 3 year old charmed us with friendly words and her sweet smile. A curly headed baby in a plaid button up, maybe 10 months old, sat behind us and screamed/babbled through the family dinner. A sweet 4 year old girl (with bright eyes, neon pink tennis shoes, jean mini-skirt and blond ponytail of curls on top of her head) captured our attention as she followed her Dad to their table-- straw in her mouth and purse on the arm. I'm guessing those parents were not quite as enamored with their adorable little ones during their busy family dinners. I certainly found eating out with our little girls to be a beating!
The following morning, (Saturday) included a baby shower to welcome two little babies to our church family. There were mothers from all seasons of life in the room: empty nesters/grandmothers, new mothers, ladies homeschooling and women who consider being mothers. I was caught off guard and brought to tears as I stumbled onto a conversation. "Women tend to read in blogs things like: .... I would not worry about the dishes; I would play with the kids more." While I mentioned I don't regret keeping a home where comfort included well ordered surroundings, I strongly relate with the sentiment of looking back and realizing I didn't treasure various seasons, chaos and all. With two girls in high school, this moment caused the tears to flow unexpectedly. Thankfully, in the midst of this crazy busy season for our family, I'm savoring the insanity of it all. Lately, my prayers include thanksgiving to the Lord for lifting my eyes to him and for the peace, joy and heavenly perspective that come through his presence and by his spirit, no matter the season or schedule of life.
Several years ago, I was a stay-at-home mother with little girls constantly underfoot. I tended to nag and complain about too many hours of TV and too little family activity. Often, I bemoaned a mundane lifestyle where I put less than 5,000 miles on my car annually; we just stayed home. We didn't send our girls to "Mother's Day Out" or preschool, so we were always together. An exciting family event was pizza/movie night. Now, with the girls constantly scattered here and there, I find myself savoring the times when everyone is gathered around the television. While I can count on one hand, the number of date nights Kyle and I shared during the first 5 years of parenting, the teenage years include an abundance of time with just the two of us together. This Friday night was one of those occasions and we chose a busy, family friendly taco place. We were entertained by the adorable chaos surrounding us. A chatty 3 year old charmed us with friendly words and her sweet smile. A curly headed baby in a plaid button up, maybe 10 months old, sat behind us and screamed/babbled through the family dinner. A sweet 4 year old girl (with bright eyes, neon pink tennis shoes, jean mini-skirt and blond ponytail of curls on top of her head) captured our attention as she followed her Dad to their table-- straw in her mouth and purse on the arm. I'm guessing those parents were not quite as enamored with their adorable little ones during their busy family dinners. I certainly found eating out with our little girls to be a beating!
The following morning, (Saturday) included a baby shower to welcome two little babies to our church family. There were mothers from all seasons of life in the room: empty nesters/grandmothers, new mothers, ladies homeschooling and women who consider being mothers. I was caught off guard and brought to tears as I stumbled onto a conversation. "Women tend to read in blogs things like: .... I would not worry about the dishes; I would play with the kids more." While I mentioned I don't regret keeping a home where comfort included well ordered surroundings, I strongly relate with the sentiment of looking back and realizing I didn't treasure various seasons, chaos and all. With two girls in high school, this moment caused the tears to flow unexpectedly. Thankfully, in the midst of this crazy busy season for our family, I'm savoring the insanity of it all. Lately, my prayers include thanksgiving to the Lord for lifting my eyes to him and for the peace, joy and heavenly perspective that come through his presence and by his spirit, no matter the season or schedule of life.
Monday, September 1, 2014
Remembering to be Grateful
After the first week in kindergarten, I am grateful for a job I love SO very much and especially for my adorable new friends. I'm thankful for the extra rest of a holiday weekend after the first days of school. The first week in the classroom is characterized by continual movement and constant conversation. Many of us are stretched to the point of satisfying exhaustion (teachers and students) as we adjust to the ways of the "big" elementary school.
After a holiday weekend, we resume a dizzying pace for our family. So, I want to remember the overwhelming sense of thankfulness (& peace) that I felt during the summer months. Often in the midst of the fall and winter season, I tend to keep my eyes down, focused on tasks and duties in front of me and I tend to forget God's gracious, loving kindness in the daily moments of life. Even this weekend, when my tendency is to be anxious as I consider increasing work and home responsibilities, I'm remembering to thank the Lord for His goodness. May the joy and peace of Christ abound as I give thanks in all circumstances and as I seek to remember His steadfast love in the days ahead. Life is short. Christ promises joy and peace through Him. We are called to a life of gratitude and nothing less.
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4-7
After a holiday weekend, we resume a dizzying pace for our family. So, I want to remember the overwhelming sense of thankfulness (& peace) that I felt during the summer months. Often in the midst of the fall and winter season, I tend to keep my eyes down, focused on tasks and duties in front of me and I tend to forget God's gracious, loving kindness in the daily moments of life. Even this weekend, when my tendency is to be anxious as I consider increasing work and home responsibilities, I'm remembering to thank the Lord for His goodness. May the joy and peace of Christ abound as I give thanks in all circumstances and as I seek to remember His steadfast love in the days ahead. Life is short. Christ promises joy and peace through Him. We are called to a life of gratitude and nothing less.
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4-7
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
The Climb
Summer 2014 is in the books and what a great vacation it was! This year included glorious bookends-- starting with time on a rocky Greek island and wrapping up in the Rocky Mountains. Thankfully, there were plenty of lazy summer days between the two trips. Now it's time to set the alarm and get back to work. Tomorrow morning teachers report to school to begin the climb of the 2014-2015 school year. In some ways, climbing is a good picture of the journey we begin with a new classroom of students.
Just last week, our family completed the annual hike to the peak of Mt. Crested Butte, with enough exposure at 12,000+ elevation to keep those scared of heights far, far away. Every year we debate whether to repeat this exercise, considering some family members have done it a dozen times or more. Typically, as I beg everyone to tackle the mountain trail again, I'm faced with some opposition. "We don't have to do it again, do we?!" "Let's skip this year!" "I've checked that off my bucket list." According to Mom, my brother faces some of the same reluctance from family members. Perhaps it reminds us of our father? As one who has always been very scared of heights, my Dad coached me up that rocky trail year after year...... much like he encouraged me to do difficult things through all of life with a hopeful and positive perspective. After convincing Kyle and a couple of my girls to come along, I got to thinking about why this annual tradition is so important to me and I think Dad's lasting influence has something to do with it. Part of me believes-- if I can conquer that fear, which causes me to panic near the peak, I can face anything the Lord brings into my life during the following year. It is symbolic of the challenging step by step journey we face each day. Over a decade ago, my father selected specific rocks for me to grab on to and stable boulders for my feet. He pushed me to the top. After a number of successful years, I gained confidence and needed less support, but this year I froze with my head spinning while trying to find a rock that didn't move and also being fearful of gaps between rocks. Anxiously, I grabbed onto the largest and most stable surface I could find and literally talked myself up the peak with Kyle right behind me.
So, as I begin another school year, on the anniversary of Dad's tragic accident, I'm especially thankful for the blessing of a father who inspired me to push myself and I'm also grateful for the only stable rock in this world, the LORD God almighty. This year He brings another precious group of students into my life. We will climb to see and experience new things, much like the stunning view from the peak of a mountain. We will tackle the spectacular world of reading and writing and we will have so much fun on this challenging journey together.
"I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised." Psalm 18: 1-3
Just last week, our family completed the annual hike to the peak of Mt. Crested Butte, with enough exposure at 12,000+ elevation to keep those scared of heights far, far away. Every year we debate whether to repeat this exercise, considering some family members have done it a dozen times or more. Typically, as I beg everyone to tackle the mountain trail again, I'm faced with some opposition. "We don't have to do it again, do we?!" "Let's skip this year!" "I've checked that off my bucket list." According to Mom, my brother faces some of the same reluctance from family members. Perhaps it reminds us of our father? As one who has always been very scared of heights, my Dad coached me up that rocky trail year after year...... much like he encouraged me to do difficult things through all of life with a hopeful and positive perspective. After convincing Kyle and a couple of my girls to come along, I got to thinking about why this annual tradition is so important to me and I think Dad's lasting influence has something to do with it. Part of me believes-- if I can conquer that fear, which causes me to panic near the peak, I can face anything the Lord brings into my life during the following year. It is symbolic of the challenging step by step journey we face each day. Over a decade ago, my father selected specific rocks for me to grab on to and stable boulders for my feet. He pushed me to the top. After a number of successful years, I gained confidence and needed less support, but this year I froze with my head spinning while trying to find a rock that didn't move and also being fearful of gaps between rocks. Anxiously, I grabbed onto the largest and most stable surface I could find and literally talked myself up the peak with Kyle right behind me.
So, as I begin another school year, on the anniversary of Dad's tragic accident, I'm especially thankful for the blessing of a father who inspired me to push myself and I'm also grateful for the only stable rock in this world, the LORD God almighty. This year He brings another precious group of students into my life. We will climb to see and experience new things, much like the stunning view from the peak of a mountain. We will tackle the spectacular world of reading and writing and we will have so much fun on this challenging journey together.
"I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised." Psalm 18: 1-3
Monday, July 21, 2014
Two Years-- Fleeting with Significance
Two years seems an insignificant amount of time, a blip on the span of a lifetime, but in others ways it is quite noteworthy. We are approaching the two year anniversary of losing Dad, which seems like yesterday! At the same time, we are increasingly mindful of sending our oldest off to college (or to work) in two more years. Yesterday, I visited with a church member who recently lost her mother. We discussed the unusual and unexpected triggers that come with profound grief. Having two years of perspective, I mentioned that the loss remains the same, but the raw pain of it decreases with gracious time. Recently, I've been thinking a lot about Dad's absence and how our family has changed pretty significantly in the past two years. When he died, he had 1 grandchild in elementary, 4 in middle school and 1 in high school. There were no licensed drivers. College appeared to be in the distant future with haunting and forbidding tuition costs. Two years later, 5 out of 6 grandchildren are in high school and only 1 is left in glorious middle school. Half of the grandkids are driving CARS, one is filling out college applications and another is touring campuses to figure out where she wants to apply. Tuition costs are becoming a reality as both families consider having TWO in college (at the same time) for several years.
I've noticed (and it's amusing to me) that you get the strongest opinions and advice during the first two years of parenting and the last two years (the pre-college years). Every mother with a two year old knows how quickly the time goes and the significant milestones from newborn to age 2: smiling, rolling, sitting, eating, playing, walking and talking. The last two years at home come with equally life-changing (while not as cute!) opportunities: driving, independence, paychecks, bank accounts and peers experimenting with sex and alcohol. The contrast in these seasons is obvious, but the heart of the mother is the same. While touring colleges this weekend, we enjoyed comparing campuses and towns with Katie and hearing about her interests and preferences. I am genuinely excited about the possibilities in her future, similar to the excitement I felt when she took her first steps or her first bite of food. However, that intense desire to keep her safe from sharp corners, choking hazards and stairs is still there as I consider her safety behind the wheel of a car and on a college campus. My favorite thing at Oklahoma State University is the blinking, blue light throughout campus for college students to call the police for help. Oh, I love this feature more than any academic program! As I consider sending my daughters off, knowing independence from home is the next step for them, it is comforting to me that we are never truly independent. The beauty and nature of faith is that we are completely dependent on almighty God for the air we breath, the steps we take and new mercies every day. Thankfully, the Lord has plans for our girls and I can rest in his sovereign care as we seek to be faithful.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Jeremiah 29:11-13
I've noticed (and it's amusing to me) that you get the strongest opinions and advice during the first two years of parenting and the last two years (the pre-college years). Every mother with a two year old knows how quickly the time goes and the significant milestones from newborn to age 2: smiling, rolling, sitting, eating, playing, walking and talking. The last two years at home come with equally life-changing (while not as cute!) opportunities: driving, independence, paychecks, bank accounts and peers experimenting with sex and alcohol. The contrast in these seasons is obvious, but the heart of the mother is the same. While touring colleges this weekend, we enjoyed comparing campuses and towns with Katie and hearing about her interests and preferences. I am genuinely excited about the possibilities in her future, similar to the excitement I felt when she took her first steps or her first bite of food. However, that intense desire to keep her safe from sharp corners, choking hazards and stairs is still there as I consider her safety behind the wheel of a car and on a college campus. My favorite thing at Oklahoma State University is the blinking, blue light throughout campus for college students to call the police for help. Oh, I love this feature more than any academic program! As I consider sending my daughters off, knowing independence from home is the next step for them, it is comforting to me that we are never truly independent. The beauty and nature of faith is that we are completely dependent on almighty God for the air we breath, the steps we take and new mercies every day. Thankfully, the Lord has plans for our girls and I can rest in his sovereign care as we seek to be faithful.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
Jeremiah 29:11-13
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Sweet Summertime
Sweet, sweet summertime!!! Summer months are deliciously refreshing and rejuvenating---- a season where I am not ruled by a to-do list. Don't get me wrong..... I'm a huge fan of living with assorted lists. Every day I have 2 to 3 things noted that I would like to accomplish before sunset. Even my classroom (with pages of lesson plans) couldn't function without that 3x8 piece of paper beside the computer listing the top details and priorities for the day. Yet, as we enter the second half of summer, I'm struck that a packing list and a grocery list are the only things hanging over my head. Even my summer goals are complete with time to make new ones.
Sadly, we've passed the mid-point for summer days. I am so thankful for an abundance of time with my girls and extra time inside of my house! Perhaps the biggest downside to working outside the home is the lack of hours invested on the home front. I really do miss it. As the days pass too quickly, it hits me that what makes summer days so sweet are the things that never end up on my list during the school year. ~Plenty of rest. ~The presence of friends and family with nothing pressing or pulling you away. ~Time for reflection ~Down time spent praising and thanking the Lord ~Quality time my girls (also hours by the television) ~Purposeful service and hospitality ~etc.
The Lord is growing in me a desire to prioritize the important things in life and to stop living by the urgent tasks of the day. Who knows where this journey will take me, but with just two more years until Katie graduates, I'm all too aware that my time is well spent on important things! We've entered a season of parenting in the big leagues and I feel more like a farm team parent. Summer subjects have included topics facing our teens (our girls)--- alcohol, sex and online bullying. May the Lord give me wisdom to parent these lovely girls well!! For the remaining summer days, I plan to enjoy every sweet moment with them.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Looks Can Be Deceiving
This week I took a summer hiatus while attending a workshop on literacy in a kindergarten classroom. It was such an encouraging three days with time to reflect on current practices and to be inspired by new ideas, ways to simplify, modify and improve my classroom. Once again, I'm struck by the weighty role of the teacher and how this privilege is not to be taken lightly. We influence hundreds of children daily and this is no small responsibility. By the end of the year, teachers are weary and overwhelmed. Summer professional development provides needed focus and renewed motivation. But I digress from the reason for this blog post.......
Typically summer days include lots of mother/daughter time which is quite rare during the school year. This week the girls have been on their own with meals, use of time and various activities. Yesterday, I arrived home to see Katie baking a homemade bundt cake. She took her little sister to the grocery store, bought lunch for both of them and then the ingredients to make a delicious dessert. While I wouldn't know how to make a cake unless I followed directions on the side of a box, Katie searched for ideas on the internet and then spent hours in the kitchen. After nearly 3 hours of hard work, she emptied the finished product from the bundt pan onto a cookie sheet only to have it fall into a messy chocolate mound, similar to the mud pies I made as a child. As she was frustrated and disappointed, she posted this result on the internet. Two things hit me: this non-baking mother was so proud of her daughter's creation, her creative drive and motivation to learn to bake on her own and her humility-- as she posted something REAL (a seeming failure) online. I was beaming with pride as I watched my child try and "fail" at something of interest to her. But, was it really a failure? Looks can be deceiving!!! It sure didn't taste like a disaster while licking the chocolatey goodness off of my fingers during teacher training today.
So much of what fills my social media feed includes perfect vacation photos (chief offender here!!!!), lovely homecooked breakfasts/dinners and beautiful smiling faces of my loved ones. If I'm being completely honest, nothing discourages me more than seeing a perfect "spread" of food cooked by another mother when it's not even a holiday. My immediate thoughts are: "I hope my family is fine with having cheetos and beef sticks for dinner and then rotten milk in their cereal." While this exaggeration is only partly true, it does capture my heart and how I often feel like a failure on the home front in the area of baking and providing home cooked meals for Kyle and the girls. I'm admitting this as I assume others also make assumptions and comparisons based on images posted. While the Oliphints are a happy family, sharing hundreds of photos, others would never know that before nearly every picture is taken, disaster ensues. "Please leave your sister alone. Just smile." "Not now, Mom!" "I promise it's just a few photos......" Then, wala- bam, beautiful smiles and the seemingly delighted family is captured and shared for loved ones to see. Again, looks are deceiving!
Recently, I caught up with a friend, who moved away, while she was home for a visit. She asked about our year. When I mentioned it was a difficult year, she said, "I had no idea! You're always so positive with everything you post." Of course, I mentioned that I don't want to share my garbage on the internet. People have enough discouraging things to fill their days without reading another person's trash or trouble. However, it made me think: Why am I so quick to post all that is good and beautiful in my life (trips, lovely children, fun outings/dates) and to remain so quiet about my challenges and/or "failures"? Am I causing another mother discouragement with my delightful travel photos similar to my envy of the perfect homemaker with home cooked breakfast images? It's just a thought.
Don't get me wrong. I love social media..... I love taking and posting photos and I love seeing the adventures and joys of my far away friends, while using this online tool. But, the look of something is not the reality! Just last Sunday, Kyle preached at a neighborhood retirement home. The room was filled with men and women in their 90's. Most used walkers or wheel chairs and many lacked the cosmetic look of those of us in younger decades. Yet, these souls in their twilight years (including a retired baptist preacher and a retired seminary professor) belted out the hymns by memory and they shouted "amen" with great faith and wisdom. They don't know the world of social media, have probably never sent a text or even an email in some cases. Their struggles did not include too much time on the internet or posting a version of life that seems too good to be true. They looked old, even weak and tired, but many of them are strong pillars of the faith, saints who have gone before us with lives of suffering and service. Over eighty years ago, they were sweet five year olds entering kindergarten classrooms much different from today, but they had teachers who loved children and who also desired to grow in their profession. These seniors offered me inspiration on a week filled with reflection and encouragement.
Typically summer days include lots of mother/daughter time which is quite rare during the school year. This week the girls have been on their own with meals, use of time and various activities. Yesterday, I arrived home to see Katie baking a homemade bundt cake. She took her little sister to the grocery store, bought lunch for both of them and then the ingredients to make a delicious dessert. While I wouldn't know how to make a cake unless I followed directions on the side of a box, Katie searched for ideas on the internet and then spent hours in the kitchen. After nearly 3 hours of hard work, she emptied the finished product from the bundt pan onto a cookie sheet only to have it fall into a messy chocolate mound, similar to the mud pies I made as a child. As she was frustrated and disappointed, she posted this result on the internet. Two things hit me: this non-baking mother was so proud of her daughter's creation, her creative drive and motivation to learn to bake on her own and her humility-- as she posted something REAL (a seeming failure) online. I was beaming with pride as I watched my child try and "fail" at something of interest to her. But, was it really a failure? Looks can be deceiving!!! It sure didn't taste like a disaster while licking the chocolatey goodness off of my fingers during teacher training today.
So much of what fills my social media feed includes perfect vacation photos (chief offender here!!!!), lovely homecooked breakfasts/dinners and beautiful smiling faces of my loved ones. If I'm being completely honest, nothing discourages me more than seeing a perfect "spread" of food cooked by another mother when it's not even a holiday. My immediate thoughts are: "I hope my family is fine with having cheetos and beef sticks for dinner and then rotten milk in their cereal." While this exaggeration is only partly true, it does capture my heart and how I often feel like a failure on the home front in the area of baking and providing home cooked meals for Kyle and the girls. I'm admitting this as I assume others also make assumptions and comparisons based on images posted. While the Oliphints are a happy family, sharing hundreds of photos, others would never know that before nearly every picture is taken, disaster ensues. "Please leave your sister alone. Just smile." "Not now, Mom!" "I promise it's just a few photos......" Then, wala- bam, beautiful smiles and the seemingly delighted family is captured and shared for loved ones to see. Again, looks are deceiving!
Recently, I caught up with a friend, who moved away, while she was home for a visit. She asked about our year. When I mentioned it was a difficult year, she said, "I had no idea! You're always so positive with everything you post." Of course, I mentioned that I don't want to share my garbage on the internet. People have enough discouraging things to fill their days without reading another person's trash or trouble. However, it made me think: Why am I so quick to post all that is good and beautiful in my life (trips, lovely children, fun outings/dates) and to remain so quiet about my challenges and/or "failures"? Am I causing another mother discouragement with my delightful travel photos similar to my envy of the perfect homemaker with home cooked breakfast images? It's just a thought.
Don't get me wrong. I love social media..... I love taking and posting photos and I love seeing the adventures and joys of my far away friends, while using this online tool. But, the look of something is not the reality! Just last Sunday, Kyle preached at a neighborhood retirement home. The room was filled with men and women in their 90's. Most used walkers or wheel chairs and many lacked the cosmetic look of those of us in younger decades. Yet, these souls in their twilight years (including a retired baptist preacher and a retired seminary professor) belted out the hymns by memory and they shouted "amen" with great faith and wisdom. They don't know the world of social media, have probably never sent a text or even an email in some cases. Their struggles did not include too much time on the internet or posting a version of life that seems too good to be true. They looked old, even weak and tired, but many of them are strong pillars of the faith, saints who have gone before us with lives of suffering and service. Over eighty years ago, they were sweet five year olds entering kindergarten classrooms much different from today, but they had teachers who loved children and who also desired to grow in their profession. These seniors offered me inspiration on a week filled with reflection and encouragement.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
"Have a Shadow?"
We're home in TEXAS! Oh, the marvelous sunsets.... oh, the dreadful heat!! We haven't even reached scorching summer temperatures with repeated days close to 110 degrees. Yet, this week, even this morning on a typical walk, I found myself seeking shade from the baking sun. Just 20 seconds of shadow under miniature, neigborhood trees provided relief. Also, on a pool visit with Kelly and friends, I had to find a shaded spot or their fun would have come to an unwelcome end after 30 minutes. While I'm not the most fun Mom, even I know that would be torture for such sweet girls. So, I found the perfect tree and relaxed with a good book by the pool, often distracted by thoughts of our time on a Greek island. Throughout the week, reflections of Santorini filled my mind. It was a most refreshing time away. Gratitude overwhelmed us as we regretfully threw away trip documents. Information about the island- sights, dining and travel tips were no longer needed. All of that anticipation and preparation--- DONE! We are left with a lifetime of memories and photo images to rehearse in our minds. Even the customary Shutterfly photo book is finished and on its way to our home.
This morning, while seeking bits of shade on my walk, I recalled one of my favorite moments in Santorini and it made me smile. On our very first morning, while overlooking the Aegean Sea and after enjoying a generous Greek breakfast , I rested on a lounge chair with my book. The 70 degree temperature was ideal and the sun gently warmed my pasty white skin. I thought to myself, "This is perfection!" Just moments later, a Greek gentleman on the hotel staff popped by and kindly suggested, "Have a shadow?" He wanted to put up the large umbrella to offer comfort and protection from the sun. I declined his offer and thanked him happily. Now this luxurious service is not something I'm acquainted with and I found it quite amusing and refreshing. While the sun rays on a Texas summer day make you want to die, there was no need for refuge on that beautiful morning.
Now, as we return to familiar routines at home, including much activity and the increasing Texas heat, I am overwhelmed with thanksgiving to the Lord for his steadfast love and his goodness to us. He graciously provided a restful and romantic time together. Psalm 36 captures some of my thoughts after a week surrounded by the beauty of His creation. With much praise, my soul finds peace and refuge from the worries of this life in the shadow of almighty God.
"Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mountains of God: your judgments are like the great deep; man and beast you save, O LORD. How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life...."
This morning, while seeking bits of shade on my walk, I recalled one of my favorite moments in Santorini and it made me smile. On our very first morning, while overlooking the Aegean Sea and after enjoying a generous Greek breakfast , I rested on a lounge chair with my book. The 70 degree temperature was ideal and the sun gently warmed my pasty white skin. I thought to myself, "This is perfection!" Just moments later, a Greek gentleman on the hotel staff popped by and kindly suggested, "Have a shadow?" He wanted to put up the large umbrella to offer comfort and protection from the sun. I declined his offer and thanked him happily. Now this luxurious service is not something I'm acquainted with and I found it quite amusing and refreshing. While the sun rays on a Texas summer day make you want to die, there was no need for refuge on that beautiful morning.
Now, as we return to familiar routines at home, including much activity and the increasing Texas heat, I am overwhelmed with thanksgiving to the Lord for his steadfast love and his goodness to us. He graciously provided a restful and romantic time together. Psalm 36 captures some of my thoughts after a week surrounded by the beauty of His creation. With much praise, my soul finds peace and refuge from the worries of this life in the shadow of almighty God.
"Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mountains of God: your judgments are like the great deep; man and beast you save, O LORD. How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life...."
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Peaceful Paradise
On our final day in Santorini, Greece, a peaceful paradise, I'm thankful for God's sustaining grace during 20 years of marriage. We've spent the past 6 days enjoying the still blue waters of the Aegean Sea. In all of life, I've never experienced such calm and quiet surroundings, yet the origin of this circular island is from volcanic explosion. God created this beauty through violent eruption. One of the highlights of our trip was a sunset sail with several American couples. There were 2 sets of newlyweds on their honeymoon, one couple recently engaged in Santorini and another celebrating a significant birthday. During this evening of combined festivity, one of the men commented that many couples don't last 20 years. As our evening progressed, the winds increased and the sea became quite rough. One of the women became seasick and another bemoaned the waves crashing over us. Quietly, I was delighted by it all. Having no experience with sailing, I found the uneven water to be a thrill. This outing seemed more symbolic of marriage than the typically tranquil and placid waters surrounding the island. In the past 2 decades, God shaped and formed a beautiful, peaceful marriage for us, through rough waters and his most gracious blessings. As we prepare to return home, to the real world, I'm struck by the overwhelming peace I feel in this place. As a kindergarten teacher and a mother of teen girls, calm moments are a treasure in life, so each day I'm especially thankful for the peace of Christ that surpasses all understanding. Through His suffering and sacrifice, I have peace with God. I am certain when I meet the Lord face to face one day, it will be in the midst of the most peaceful paradise. I'm thankful for glimpses of eternity this week as we celebrate his goodness to us.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Anticipation
On the eve of kindergarten graduation and seeing the hopeful end of an overwhelming (literal) end of the year checklist, I'm struck by the contrast of experience regarding anticipation. As some of you know, this year has been a tough year professionally. While I've grown as a teacher, I've also witnessed student progress in unprecedented ways. During challenging weeks in the classroom, I spent countless hours in the evening planning our 20th wedding anniversary trip. Anniversary planning has provided much joy and encouragement throughout the school year.
With just under 2 days of school remaining, while packing a classroom and our luggage at the same time, the joy of travel preparation is gone. A common cold makes me sound like a smoker with an increasingly irritating cough. School and family details keep me focused and stressed. I've never planned a trip overseas, so I have a long list of worries that keep me anxious, not to mention I have concerns about our girls going to camp in our absence. Anticipation feels more painful than encouraging, just days before our glorious, long anticipated vacation.
Still, if my worst fears are realized, with eventful travels including missed connections or missing luggage, the expectation of the past seven months has provided nothing but encouragement. The trip is a success before we even leave the city simply because of the joy of anticipation.
In the midst of a fallen world with challenges and hardship as a guarantee, anticipation of paradise with the Lord provides hope and encouragement to my weary soul. While earthly pleasures, including desirable travel destinations, may prove to be stressful and possibly unsatisfying, I have no doubt eternity in the presence of almighty God will be overwhelming and nothing but perfection. My hope and prayer continues to be that Christ lifts my eyes to Him, His kingdom and to my heavenly destination in profoundly practical ways that bring joy during difficult seasons of life. His faithfulness continues to astound me as I reflect on this school year and his abundant goodness to me and to the precious students he brought into my life.
With just under 2 days of school remaining, while packing a classroom and our luggage at the same time, the joy of travel preparation is gone. A common cold makes me sound like a smoker with an increasingly irritating cough. School and family details keep me focused and stressed. I've never planned a trip overseas, so I have a long list of worries that keep me anxious, not to mention I have concerns about our girls going to camp in our absence. Anticipation feels more painful than encouraging, just days before our glorious, long anticipated vacation.
Still, if my worst fears are realized, with eventful travels including missed connections or missing luggage, the expectation of the past seven months has provided nothing but encouragement. The trip is a success before we even leave the city simply because of the joy of anticipation.
In the midst of a fallen world with challenges and hardship as a guarantee, anticipation of paradise with the Lord provides hope and encouragement to my weary soul. While earthly pleasures, including desirable travel destinations, may prove to be stressful and possibly unsatisfying, I have no doubt eternity in the presence of almighty God will be overwhelming and nothing but perfection. My hope and prayer continues to be that Christ lifts my eyes to Him, His kingdom and to my heavenly destination in profoundly practical ways that bring joy during difficult seasons of life. His faithfulness continues to astound me as I reflect on this school year and his abundant goodness to me and to the precious students he brought into my life.
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Sunshine and Clouds
Monday of this week started with dark clouds and intense storms. In order to keep our students safe during thunderstorms, a 10 minute bus dismissal turned into a two hour wait/process. The lightning just wouldn't quit!! Our week ended with a glorious Friday morning sunrise. While I'm not a morning person in the least, school days provide an opportunity to watch the sun rise on my drive to work and this encourages my soul greatly. Now there are only 13 more sunrise opportunities until SUMMER, at which time I will sleep through this uplifting morning ritual until school resumes.
While reciting one of our daily (and weather related) poems in the classroom this week, we discussed how our attitudes can bring sunshine and joy into the lives of our friends-- chasing the dark clouds away. You know the people, like Olaf's snow cloud in the movie Frozen, who seem to walk around with storm clouds over them, greeting everyone with a negative or critical perspective. After interacting with them, you feel the gloom and doom of their presence. Then, you meet others who greet you with a smile, an encouraging word and who bring sunshine into your day, even those who face serious challenges in life, yet shower others with deference and grace. Some of us, without knowing it, walk around with faces that wear the weight of the world, even with unknowing looks of disgust. Often my daughters ask why I am angry or upset, due to the expression on my face, when in reality I feel rather content and joyful. Knowing this tendency and how it may be interpreted, I'm making an effort to greet others with a purposeful smile and I'm becoming more convicted that my negative words and attitude leave nothing but darkness in the lives of others.
As many of you know, I'm particularly taken with the sky, morning, noon and night. Just this week, I paused multiple times on my way home from school in awe of the vast beauty and wide open expanse above the horizon. While the central states have limited access to beaches and mountains, we enjoy daily masterpieces from the hands of God. The immense sky indicating threatening weather, even tornadoes, is equally impressive, yet brings stressful and uneasy emotion. A bright blue sky filled with sunshine and beautifully shaped clouds, like the one I enjoyed this week, overwhelms me with peace and contentment. May the spirit of Christ enable us, struggling sinners surrounded by the darkness of this world, to share the light, grace, mercy and kindness of our Lord with others, most especially and first to those in our own homes.
"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."
While reciting one of our daily (and weather related) poems in the classroom this week, we discussed how our attitudes can bring sunshine and joy into the lives of our friends-- chasing the dark clouds away. You know the people, like Olaf's snow cloud in the movie Frozen, who seem to walk around with storm clouds over them, greeting everyone with a negative or critical perspective. After interacting with them, you feel the gloom and doom of their presence. Then, you meet others who greet you with a smile, an encouraging word and who bring sunshine into your day, even those who face serious challenges in life, yet shower others with deference and grace. Some of us, without knowing it, walk around with faces that wear the weight of the world, even with unknowing looks of disgust. Often my daughters ask why I am angry or upset, due to the expression on my face, when in reality I feel rather content and joyful. Knowing this tendency and how it may be interpreted, I'm making an effort to greet others with a purposeful smile and I'm becoming more convicted that my negative words and attitude leave nothing but darkness in the lives of others.
As many of you know, I'm particularly taken with the sky, morning, noon and night. Just this week, I paused multiple times on my way home from school in awe of the vast beauty and wide open expanse above the horizon. While the central states have limited access to beaches and mountains, we enjoy daily masterpieces from the hands of God. The immense sky indicating threatening weather, even tornadoes, is equally impressive, yet brings stressful and uneasy emotion. A bright blue sky filled with sunshine and beautifully shaped clouds, like the one I enjoyed this week, overwhelms me with peace and contentment. May the spirit of Christ enable us, struggling sinners surrounded by the darkness of this world, to share the light, grace, mercy and kindness of our Lord with others, most especially and first to those in our own homes.
"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Reluctantly Letting Go
Today was the kick-off to our ABC Countdown to summer--It was "Art day". Yippee!?!? With only 25 days till summer, I'm struck with the fact that it's time to let our kindergarten friends go on to first grade and I'm once again reluctant to do so. As teachers, every year we pour so much of ourselves into our sweet friends and then we send them off to the next grade, as if passing a baton. We trust that another teacher will pick up where we left off and that he or she will shower our precious students with loving care. We are only given a short window of opportunity in the lives of our students. Of course, the thought of summer days excites us, but the annual tradition of letting go tugs at our hearts.
Tomorrow morning my oldest will take her drivers test to become officially licensed. We are confident about her ability, after much practice, but it really gets to me that she will be her driving herself to school right after the test. I don't know how other parents experienced this first step of freedom for their teenage children, but once again, I'm hesitant to let go. How can my baby girl drive a machine of metal at 40+++ miles an hour with no carseat and no adult supervision?!
As a kindergarten teacher, I continually encourage my students to do new things on their own. At the beginning of the year, there are NO expectations..... Parents help with all sorts of things: unpacking/carrying backpacks, putting on/zipping up jackets, tying shoes and opening/closing lunch items. By the end of the year, some independence is expected. As a parent, I relate with the challenge of letting our little ones become more independent and how easy it is to do everything for them. Even this evening, one of my daughters tried to run the vacuum cleaner under the kitchen table and she was not familiar with how to use the appliance. Obviously, I've been doing it or paying someone to do it for too long. This was a wake-up call.
As we anticipate summer days, our mailbox is filled with graduation announcements. Even today, we received mail from two dear families who shared this important event in the lives of their sons. In our home we place graduation photos alongside birth announcements. If you were to visit, you would know that we prominently display significant life announcements (weddings, births, graduations) on the tile wall behind our kitchen phone. This evening it hit me that the handsome 18 year old son of my dear friend (in one announcement) is just like the newborn baby in the birth announcement right beside. For those of us entering the "letting go" season of life, it was just yesterday that we welcomed our newborn babies to this world and when we found it easier to tie the shoes ourselves than to teach our kindergarten children how to tie shoes. As a mother who is forced to encourage independence in my quickly growing daughters, I need to pray for wisdom from the Lord and abiding trust in him, knowing that he cares for them abundantly more than I ever could and that he watches over their coming and going, even in quickly moving vehicles.
Tomorrow morning my oldest will take her drivers test to become officially licensed. We are confident about her ability, after much practice, but it really gets to me that she will be her driving herself to school right after the test. I don't know how other parents experienced this first step of freedom for their teenage children, but once again, I'm hesitant to let go. How can my baby girl drive a machine of metal at 40+++ miles an hour with no carseat and no adult supervision?!
As a kindergarten teacher, I continually encourage my students to do new things on their own. At the beginning of the year, there are NO expectations..... Parents help with all sorts of things: unpacking/carrying backpacks, putting on/zipping up jackets, tying shoes and opening/closing lunch items. By the end of the year, some independence is expected. As a parent, I relate with the challenge of letting our little ones become more independent and how easy it is to do everything for them. Even this evening, one of my daughters tried to run the vacuum cleaner under the kitchen table and she was not familiar with how to use the appliance. Obviously, I've been doing it or paying someone to do it for too long. This was a wake-up call.
As we anticipate summer days, our mailbox is filled with graduation announcements. Even today, we received mail from two dear families who shared this important event in the lives of their sons. In our home we place graduation photos alongside birth announcements. If you were to visit, you would know that we prominently display significant life announcements (weddings, births, graduations) on the tile wall behind our kitchen phone. This evening it hit me that the handsome 18 year old son of my dear friend (in one announcement) is just like the newborn baby in the birth announcement right beside. For those of us entering the "letting go" season of life, it was just yesterday that we welcomed our newborn babies to this world and when we found it easier to tie the shoes ourselves than to teach our kindergarten children how to tie shoes. As a mother who is forced to encourage independence in my quickly growing daughters, I need to pray for wisdom from the Lord and abiding trust in him, knowing that he cares for them abundantly more than I ever could and that he watches over their coming and going, even in quickly moving vehicles.
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Ordinary Life
This week I've been especially grateful and more aware of the blessing of a great life! I don't write this in a boastful-bring-others-down kind of way; I ride the roller coaster of emotions with ups and downs just as much as the next girl. Now that I'm creeping uncomfortably close to fifty years of living, I'm finding the low moments to be particularly low and more regular while the highs are not so high, yet sweeter in experience. There were many moments of pause this week, in the car, the school hallways, the classroom and in our home, where I just took it all in and gave thanks to the Lord for his goodness in the mundane aspects of life.
Yesterday, after arriving home from work, Kyle and I shared our weekly Friday afternoon routine- including beverages on the patio. However, this week was different. The girls did not join us and we didn't speak much. The birds were singing. The temperature was ideal and the skies were bright blue. The only words we exchanged were weather related... a perfect old couple image. This was yet another one of those moments where I thought: "It doesn't get any better than this!" As usual, my body was exhausted from a busy week in kindergarten, with plenty of challenging circumstances throughout the week, yet, in the quiet of our backyard, my thoughts were: "This moment is pinch-me-perfect," a consistent thought throughout the week.
Our evening continued with an unusual treat; all five of us went out for dinner and a little shopping. Rarely do we get all three girls on a weekend night due to babysitting schedules and other activities. I tend to savor these times more and more in the recent years. Before dinner, one of our girls asked why we don't do things like other families. She commented that her friends get to do so many things and that our family is so ordinary. Initially, I responded with comments including: living within your means, avoiding debt, the importance of savings. Then, as everyone, including Kyle, tuned me out, I mentioned that our lives are not just ordinary, but they are extraordinary. It's in the small, everyday slices of life where I'm tasting the sweetest joy and where peace reigns in my soul. Mountain top experiences and/or beach vacations bring enjoyment and refreshment to be sure, but deep gratitude comes, most often, in moments of mundane life when God's abundant goodness is gloriously extraordinary!
Yesterday, after arriving home from work, Kyle and I shared our weekly Friday afternoon routine- including beverages on the patio. However, this week was different. The girls did not join us and we didn't speak much. The birds were singing. The temperature was ideal and the skies were bright blue. The only words we exchanged were weather related... a perfect old couple image. This was yet another one of those moments where I thought: "It doesn't get any better than this!" As usual, my body was exhausted from a busy week in kindergarten, with plenty of challenging circumstances throughout the week, yet, in the quiet of our backyard, my thoughts were: "This moment is pinch-me-perfect," a consistent thought throughout the week.
Our evening continued with an unusual treat; all five of us went out for dinner and a little shopping. Rarely do we get all three girls on a weekend night due to babysitting schedules and other activities. I tend to savor these times more and more in the recent years. Before dinner, one of our girls asked why we don't do things like other families. She commented that her friends get to do so many things and that our family is so ordinary. Initially, I responded with comments including: living within your means, avoiding debt, the importance of savings. Then, as everyone, including Kyle, tuned me out, I mentioned that our lives are not just ordinary, but they are extraordinary. It's in the small, everyday slices of life where I'm tasting the sweetest joy and where peace reigns in my soul. Mountain top experiences and/or beach vacations bring enjoyment and refreshment to be sure, but deep gratitude comes, most often, in moments of mundane life when God's abundant goodness is gloriously extraordinary!
Sunday, March 23, 2014
This is the Time to Remember
This week marks the arrival of spring and I must say there is more of a spring in my step with consistent sunny skies and nice weather in the forecast! On the first day of spring (March 20th), I drove home from school and felt on top of the world, full of energy and satisfied with a productive and meaningful day in the classroom. Chicago's, "Hard Habit to Break" played on one of my favorite Satellite radio stations and made me a bit wistful as I considered the teenage years, as if they were just yesterday. Just a few minutes later, I pulled into our driveway as my daughter and some girlfriends pulled out in a caravan and my oldest stuck her body through the sunroof to wave hello and goodbye to me. I was reminded that it was not just yesterday that I was in her shoes or when my favorite Chicago song filled my mind with romantic thoughts of teenage love. 30 years has passed since the release of that song, so let's face the reality--- I am getting OLD!
Later that evening, this same daughter filled out an application online to be a life guard this summer. This was another jolt to my system as a second distant memory seemed just like yesterday. How can a little girl, who recently fought with me about getting her face in the water, protect others in a busy neighborhood water park?!? Believe it or not, I argued with her about this prospective job and even went to bed with things less than peaceful in our home. The following morning, I woke with regret, considering how we have only 2 years left with our oldest at home. TWO YEARS?! Everyone knows that a couple years can pass in the blink of an eye. Even the first years of life-- newborn days to the terrible twos are fleeting, while also seemingly endless and quite challenging. I drove to work having been reminded of the teenage years slipping away from us and I considered--- THIS is the time to remember and to savor with our girls. Even baby Kelly will move out in just 6 years and we will enter a completely different season as parents. As I left for work, surprisingly and appropriately, Billy Joel's song, "This is the Time" played on the radio. The lyrics were so fitting for the moment and for the thoughts running through my head. The words that struck me were: This is the time to remember--- cause it will not last forever. These are the days to hold on to---- cause we won't although we'll want to. This is the time, but time is gonna change. Although I want to treasure these limited days with our girls at home, my days are often filled with regrets as a mother.
This week has been filled with times to remember as our second daughter has been on a family movie marathon. Her baby and toddler videos have been on continuous loop. She watched our wedding video, the entire ceremony and reception, twice in the recent days. Video clips as newlyweds and new parents have reminded us that times certainly change and seasons of life go by all too fast. Just this week, I've watched clips of Caroline just out of the womb, unable to hold her head up, taking first bites of solid food, getting a clean diaper, taking her first steps, learning to go potty, learning to swim and peddling a bike for the first time. It is surreal to think of all the significant times to remember in nearly 20 years of marriage. Now that we've entered the final years of parenting in the home, I'm all too aware that I have not been the model mother for an episode of Leave it to Beaver and that is not likely to change in the remaining years. So often the times I remember are those when I'm stumbling in sin and where I'm eternally grateful for the Lord Jesus and his sanctifying work in my life. If I could go back and relive the video clips of our life, I would certainly be more grateful and gracious in each of the little moments of our days. Even this week, that is all too real to me, but thankfully, each morning (including the second day of spring) I'm increasingly aware that His mercies are new every morning.
Later that evening, this same daughter filled out an application online to be a life guard this summer. This was another jolt to my system as a second distant memory seemed just like yesterday. How can a little girl, who recently fought with me about getting her face in the water, protect others in a busy neighborhood water park?!? Believe it or not, I argued with her about this prospective job and even went to bed with things less than peaceful in our home. The following morning, I woke with regret, considering how we have only 2 years left with our oldest at home. TWO YEARS?! Everyone knows that a couple years can pass in the blink of an eye. Even the first years of life-- newborn days to the terrible twos are fleeting, while also seemingly endless and quite challenging. I drove to work having been reminded of the teenage years slipping away from us and I considered--- THIS is the time to remember and to savor with our girls. Even baby Kelly will move out in just 6 years and we will enter a completely different season as parents. As I left for work, surprisingly and appropriately, Billy Joel's song, "This is the Time" played on the radio. The lyrics were so fitting for the moment and for the thoughts running through my head. The words that struck me were: This is the time to remember--- cause it will not last forever. These are the days to hold on to---- cause we won't although we'll want to. This is the time, but time is gonna change. Although I want to treasure these limited days with our girls at home, my days are often filled with regrets as a mother.
This week has been filled with times to remember as our second daughter has been on a family movie marathon. Her baby and toddler videos have been on continuous loop. She watched our wedding video, the entire ceremony and reception, twice in the recent days. Video clips as newlyweds and new parents have reminded us that times certainly change and seasons of life go by all too fast. Just this week, I've watched clips of Caroline just out of the womb, unable to hold her head up, taking first bites of solid food, getting a clean diaper, taking her first steps, learning to go potty, learning to swim and peddling a bike for the first time. It is surreal to think of all the significant times to remember in nearly 20 years of marriage. Now that we've entered the final years of parenting in the home, I'm all too aware that I have not been the model mother for an episode of Leave it to Beaver and that is not likely to change in the remaining years. So often the times I remember are those when I'm stumbling in sin and where I'm eternally grateful for the Lord Jesus and his sanctifying work in my life. If I could go back and relive the video clips of our life, I would certainly be more grateful and gracious in each of the little moments of our days. Even this week, that is all too real to me, but thankfully, each morning (including the second day of spring) I'm increasingly aware that His mercies are new every morning.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Going Home
Spring Break 2014 is here! The car is overflowing with duffles, dog cages and ski gear. We're leaving the Texas forecast in the 70's and heading for temperatures ranging from the teens to the 30's. Happy Spring, folks! While pulling out the ski gear (unused for a couple years and mostly outgrown) and also scheduling private lessons for the girls and reserving equipment, I did a short trip down memory lane. The Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte, ski slopes and ski gear make me think of Dad. My brother tells a story of how I learned to ski around age 4. He claims that Dad "spanked me down Simba"-- a ski slope in Vail, Colorado. While this is only partially true, it does capture decades of memories from Spring Break in Colorado. Wake up, suit up, ski hard and fast--- no need for careful turns--- just tuck and race to the bottom. I haven't been skiing since Dad died; he was my best partner on the slopes, well, except for my brother. In his later years, we would ski a run, stop at a warming hut for a drink, then ski another run to the next warming hut. Due to the fast speeds previously mentioned, this worked out to be about 3 minutes on the slopes for every hour spent with hot chocolate or a warm "mixed drink"---skis off by the fire. All these thoughts going through my mind leave me with a feeling that we're going home to Colorado, as it is so connected with Dad. I have no idea if I will even ski this year, but I'm certain that Dad's memory will be powerfully felt. I'm thankful to have a lifetime of memories with him in the Rocky Mountains where his passionate and adventurous ways were on full display.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Seasons- Anchored in Faith
This week in kindergarten our winter hallway decoration, containing over a hundred personalized snowmen, came crashing down. For weeks, our sweet PTA moms have been repairing the scene as sections of snow people bite the dust. However, this time we decided it's time to retire the snow covered trees, snowflakes and the white butcher paper landscape and move on to springtime flowers, green leaves and butterflies. Of course, it's still February and much of our country is surrounded by several feet of snow with persistent frigid weather, but in a Texas kindergarten hallway, we're moving on to the beauty of spring and we're not looking back! In some strange way, a humongous, transforming, fire retardant and sometimes annoying tree (that is the center of our seasonal hallway display) reminds me of the cycles and significance of each passing school year. From adventurous summer days to abundant fall harvests to dark, cold (often dreary) winter months to joyful weeks of spring, I find comfort in the predictable nature of God's creation and the renewing hope of new life. This repeating pattern is a picture of life in so many ways.
Raising daughters during the preteen/teen years gives me another perspective on cycles in life, including regular ups and downs with emotion. It is no small challenge being a teenage girl in this world. Who of us would go back and do it all again?! I'm guessing not one of us would relive the drama and insecurity of middle school and high school years. It crushes me when my girls are sad and struggling. I feel helpless, yet earnestly prayerful, when trying to comfort and speak into the overwhelming, chaotic world of teenagers. My gut response is to express deep sympathy for them and then to reassure them it will get better in time-- then worse, then better, then worse over the next few years. This conversation reminds me of the assurance that spring will come again but so will depressing days of winter. Ultimately, my only true comfort for them is to share with them how I've weathered the seasons of life, deeply rooted in faith. Only the Lord Jesus offers us confidence in times of weakness, and often shrinking faith, when we are tossed and turned by the storms and repeating waves of life. I continually pray for them to find themselves anchored in Him, where the joy of the Lord becomes their strength. As we anticipate and welcome spring, even prematurely, I'm reminded of the Lord's comfort, goodness and faithfulness to us while we endure the repeating cycles of life in this world.
"Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is Christ." Ephesians 4: 14-15
"The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble." Psalm 9:9
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation and my stronghold. I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies." Psalm 18:2
Raising daughters during the preteen/teen years gives me another perspective on cycles in life, including regular ups and downs with emotion. It is no small challenge being a teenage girl in this world. Who of us would go back and do it all again?! I'm guessing not one of us would relive the drama and insecurity of middle school and high school years. It crushes me when my girls are sad and struggling. I feel helpless, yet earnestly prayerful, when trying to comfort and speak into the overwhelming, chaotic world of teenagers. My gut response is to express deep sympathy for them and then to reassure them it will get better in time-- then worse, then better, then worse over the next few years. This conversation reminds me of the assurance that spring will come again but so will depressing days of winter. Ultimately, my only true comfort for them is to share with them how I've weathered the seasons of life, deeply rooted in faith. Only the Lord Jesus offers us confidence in times of weakness, and often shrinking faith, when we are tossed and turned by the storms and repeating waves of life. I continually pray for them to find themselves anchored in Him, where the joy of the Lord becomes their strength. As we anticipate and welcome spring, even prematurely, I'm reminded of the Lord's comfort, goodness and faithfulness to us while we endure the repeating cycles of life in this world.
"Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is Christ." Ephesians 4: 14-15
"The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble." Psalm 9:9
"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation and my stronghold. I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies." Psalm 18:2
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Let it Soak
In an odd space of time, between an early exit from the classroom and a canceled/rescheduled flight, while in a quiet house with two lazy dogs, I find myself finishing dishes and making connections in my head and heart. A light bulb went off in my brain while cleaning a large cooking pot which soaked overnight. Our chili dinner was left unattended while on a rolling boil and meaty goodness attached itself to the bottom with Superglue force. Everyone knows to let such a dish nightmare soak for an unspecified length of time. Believe it or not, this quiet household chore reminded me of one of my biggest weaknesses as a mother and some life giving advice my husband has been trying to share with me in the recent weeks.
When you're married to a preacher, one of the hazards can be that typical marriage and parenting discussions turn into mini three-point-sermons with all the wisdom of scripture included. To be clear, these gospel driven messages are not harsh or judgmental. NO! They are carefully crafted, gentle and loving remarks. So, what's a pastor's wife to do? Sometimes the hearing of it sounds more like a foreign language or the babble-speak from a baby. My ears go deaf and my eyes glaze over with a "make it stop" expression! The intent from the pastor is to help, yet the take home is often lost much like the wandering mind of a congregant during the Sunday service.
When you have a tough job in a stock pot, you don't attack it with all of your force in an effort to clean the caked on remains by effort and strength. You let it settle, loosen and soak for a gentler and more effective cleaning. As a mother, I address nearly every child raising struggle/issue with the force it would take to clean that pot right after clearing the table from the chili dinner. Maybe Kyle's wise and choice words are pointing me to a more effective method of leading the girls which includes patient waiting, a softened heart (on both sides of the issue) and God glorifying peace. This brief moment in the kitchen was both rare and peaceful. There was no intensity required or aggravation involved. Maybe our next parental conversation should simply be, "Mommy, just let it soak!"
When you're married to a preacher, one of the hazards can be that typical marriage and parenting discussions turn into mini three-point-sermons with all the wisdom of scripture included. To be clear, these gospel driven messages are not harsh or judgmental. NO! They are carefully crafted, gentle and loving remarks. So, what's a pastor's wife to do? Sometimes the hearing of it sounds more like a foreign language or the babble-speak from a baby. My ears go deaf and my eyes glaze over with a "make it stop" expression! The intent from the pastor is to help, yet the take home is often lost much like the wandering mind of a congregant during the Sunday service.
When you have a tough job in a stock pot, you don't attack it with all of your force in an effort to clean the caked on remains by effort and strength. You let it settle, loosen and soak for a gentler and more effective cleaning. As a mother, I address nearly every child raising struggle/issue with the force it would take to clean that pot right after clearing the table from the chili dinner. Maybe Kyle's wise and choice words are pointing me to a more effective method of leading the girls which includes patient waiting, a softened heart (on both sides of the issue) and God glorifying peace. This brief moment in the kitchen was both rare and peaceful. There was no intensity required or aggravation involved. Maybe our next parental conversation should simply be, "Mommy, just let it soak!"
Saturday, February 1, 2014
The Heart of a Teacher
After 91 days in school, first semester grades are done and we're 9 days and counting from our annual 100th Day celebration in kindergarten. Of all the festivity in the classroom, including a winter party, Dr. Seuss week, a Valentine exchange and an end of the year bash, the 100th Day is my favorite! Lately I've had the mid-year blues from a growing list of end of the year expectations and a decreasing number of days off and I've been particularly discouraged as a teacher in the recent weeks. So, it is refreshing and encouraging to reflect on how far we've come in just the first 100 days of school, not to mention the first days of a 13 year endeavor.
If you asked me what I do as a teacher, I would say that I serve 5 and 6 year olds for a living, the best paying gig on the planet. By my calulations, the 100th day represents 700 classroom hours with my adorable clients with services including hundreds of shoes tied, hundreds of backpacks stuffed/zipped and organized, hundreds of bandaids applied, hundreds of lunch items opened, hundreds of stories read, hundreds (maybe 1000's) of pencils sharpened, hundreds of crocodile tears dried and hundreds of questions answered (100's of questions daily).
When I think about why I invest every fiber of myself to this calling, leaving my 3 daughters to get ready for school and eat breakfast without Mom each morning and to arrive home to an empty house each afternoon, it's the students and what takes place in those first 100 days of school. Boys who didn't know their letter names or sounds are reading and writing with confidence. Girls who wouldn't speak above a whisper are now fielding questions from classmates with assertiveness. Students who couldn't or wouldn't pay attention for more than a minute are now focused and motivated to learn. Daily I get to see an understanding of numbers, letters, words, sentences click for 20 precious individuals. I've figured out what makes each child tick and how to motivate areas of difficulty. For this reason, it's time to celebrate and to rejoice in the classroom and to put an end to those mid-year blues.
Comments I hear quite often (even yesterday) include, "You kindergarten teachers are so __ (fill in the blank)" "I don't know how you do it." Franky, as I step into the mid-forties, working alongside women much younger, cooler and more energetic than me, I have days where I think, "I don't know how long I can do this." For this reason, I begin each day with prayers of thanksgiving and humble dependence, asking the Lord to help me love and serve my students well-- for His glory.
If you asked me what I do as a teacher, I would say that I serve 5 and 6 year olds for a living, the best paying gig on the planet. By my calulations, the 100th day represents 700 classroom hours with my adorable clients with services including hundreds of shoes tied, hundreds of backpacks stuffed/zipped and organized, hundreds of bandaids applied, hundreds of lunch items opened, hundreds of stories read, hundreds (maybe 1000's) of pencils sharpened, hundreds of crocodile tears dried and hundreds of questions answered (100's of questions daily).
When I think about why I invest every fiber of myself to this calling, leaving my 3 daughters to get ready for school and eat breakfast without Mom each morning and to arrive home to an empty house each afternoon, it's the students and what takes place in those first 100 days of school. Boys who didn't know their letter names or sounds are reading and writing with confidence. Girls who wouldn't speak above a whisper are now fielding questions from classmates with assertiveness. Students who couldn't or wouldn't pay attention for more than a minute are now focused and motivated to learn. Daily I get to see an understanding of numbers, letters, words, sentences click for 20 precious individuals. I've figured out what makes each child tick and how to motivate areas of difficulty. For this reason, it's time to celebrate and to rejoice in the classroom and to put an end to those mid-year blues.
Comments I hear quite often (even yesterday) include, "You kindergarten teachers are so __ (fill in the blank)" "I don't know how you do it." Franky, as I step into the mid-forties, working alongside women much younger, cooler and more energetic than me, I have days where I think, "I don't know how long I can do this." For this reason, I begin each day with prayers of thanksgiving and humble dependence, asking the Lord to help me love and serve my students well-- for His glory.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
The Power of a Story
We've begun the annual tradition of starting off the year trying to see all or most of the Oscar nominated movies before the award show. Even this weekend, we went to a movie on Friday and Saturday evening. The contrast in the two cinematic experiences couldn't be more obvious or dramatic. One movie had all the elements of a memorable story--interesting characters with identifiable struggles and just enough drama and perseverance to keep you involved until the end-- where circumstances or people are redeemed in one way or another. While the other feature left me checking the time on my phone (every 3 minutes) to see how long until the movie would be over and I could get out of the theater. This annual movie obsession got me to thinking about why we spend so much time and money at the theater. Possibly, it's the power of a story that captures us.
The month of January also tends to include a list of books that I would like to read throughout the year. It is a great pleasure when I find myself so caught up in a novel that I rejoice or weep, even get angry, with characters and when I feel personally acquainted with the personalities of the individuals, including significant flaws and depth of character. As a kindergarten teacher, perhaps the greatest joy in the classroom includes sharing literature experiences with my students. Highly active and rarely quiet 5 and 6 years old children freeze like statues during daily read alouds. Student engagement increases during discussion of story elements-- characters, setting, problem and solution. The influence of a good story is clear even from the beginning of life, during the baby and toddler years.
Recently, while watching one of my favorite television shows/stories (Downton Abbey), I was struck by the dialogue from one of the characters. The gentleman who leads the mansion staff said, "The business of life is the acquisition of memories. In the end, that's all there is." While I relate with this sentiment and often find myself collecting and rehearsing memories from the past, I do not agree with his conclusion-- "That's all there is." Life is the greatest of all stories filled with sin, tragedy, triumph, perseverance, hope and redemption. The Bible, containing history, poetry and prophecy, is simply the story of redemption for God's people. In the end, I hope the story of my life reads with authentic struggle (including significant character flaws), dependance upon divine mercy and the growing restoration of my heart through the power of the spirit. My hope and intention in writing this blog includes recording my story in hope that others will find encouragement through Christ's redeeming work in my life.
The month of January also tends to include a list of books that I would like to read throughout the year. It is a great pleasure when I find myself so caught up in a novel that I rejoice or weep, even get angry, with characters and when I feel personally acquainted with the personalities of the individuals, including significant flaws and depth of character. As a kindergarten teacher, perhaps the greatest joy in the classroom includes sharing literature experiences with my students. Highly active and rarely quiet 5 and 6 years old children freeze like statues during daily read alouds. Student engagement increases during discussion of story elements-- characters, setting, problem and solution. The influence of a good story is clear even from the beginning of life, during the baby and toddler years.
Recently, while watching one of my favorite television shows/stories (Downton Abbey), I was struck by the dialogue from one of the characters. The gentleman who leads the mansion staff said, "The business of life is the acquisition of memories. In the end, that's all there is." While I relate with this sentiment and often find myself collecting and rehearsing memories from the past, I do not agree with his conclusion-- "That's all there is." Life is the greatest of all stories filled with sin, tragedy, triumph, perseverance, hope and redemption. The Bible, containing history, poetry and prophecy, is simply the story of redemption for God's people. In the end, I hope the story of my life reads with authentic struggle (including significant character flaws), dependance upon divine mercy and the growing restoration of my heart through the power of the spirit. My hope and intention in writing this blog includes recording my story in hope that others will find encouragement through Christ's redeeming work in my life.
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