Well folks, after many failed attempts, I'm publicly announcing my next go of trying to kick sugar to the curb.
I'm an avid reader of Jami Nato's blog and recently she has posted about her journey to do this very thing. You see, this sugar problem of mine is not just a bummer for the waistline... it is also a faith issue. Over-indulging in sweets and processed treats is gluttony. Gluttony, my friends, is a sin. Even worse than that is the reality that I tend to rely on these sugary items for comfort when I should be seeking Him. I know this process is going to require a lot more time in prayer and journaling through the heart issues that go hand-in-hand with such an "addiction."
I'm also realizing that our society is very food-focused. We use sweet treats as rewards or comfort. Social gatherings are often centered around a spread of delicious treats. Somewhere along the lines we have forgotten that food is meant to be fuel for our bodies. Sugar and processed foods fail to meet our nutrient needs and therefore cannot help our bodies stay energized. I so want to keep this truth in the forefront of my mind. I want to truly be aware of what I'm feeding my body.
With that being said, I'm anxious to put all the great finds on Pinterest and blogs to good use. I'm asking for you, the few followers I may still have, to help keep me accountable in this process to clean out my diet. I'm going to try to work my way through as Jami did and allow myself a day of rest- but this does not mean a day of binging which my old self would have done. I appreciate any encouragement you all may have to offer.
Here's to a fresh start and a healthier way of living!
So much to learn...
I have a confession to make.
I am a serious fan of Gilmore Girls. I'm talking dedicated viewer for all 7 seasons, owner of all 7 seasons on DVD, and frequent marathon viewer of said DVDs.
I can't help but absorb myself in the witty banter and references I have yet to fully understand thanks to my lack of film and literature knowledge. The show actually inspires me to visit a local bookstore and begin buffing up on such references and vocabulary.
There's just something about the story line that really draws me in. Why am I rambling on and on about this beloved show, you ask? I suppose I'm rambling due to the show's ability to inspire me. (Don't laugh too hard at the thought of this TV show inspiring me.)
Call me crazy, but, my years spent in an elementary classroom have left me feeling as though I now have "elementary brain." I find myself missing literature and... dare I say... studying. Yes I, the girl who was BEYOND ready to be finished with school (ironic considering my choice in profession), have begun feeling the itch to go back. Now, I could find myself wanting to eat these very words tomorrow... but for the time being, I'm actually tossing the idea around in my head.
I just want to feel well educated. The typical phrase for most teachers is that we consider ourselves to be "lifelong learners." I suppose I really do just want to live up to that. As mentioned in my previous post, I've always loved English whether it was the study of literature or the time spent writing. I'm wondering if that jump to middle school or high school really could be my next step. I'm kind of excited at the prospect of change. I take that back, I'm very excited at the thought of change.
I've got several months to pray, and potentially study for the good 'ole Praxis. In the meantime I'll continue to enjoy my Gilmore Girls marathons and all the dreams that this dear show brings about in me.
I am a serious fan of Gilmore Girls. I'm talking dedicated viewer for all 7 seasons, owner of all 7 seasons on DVD, and frequent marathon viewer of said DVDs.
I can't help but absorb myself in the witty banter and references I have yet to fully understand thanks to my lack of film and literature knowledge. The show actually inspires me to visit a local bookstore and begin buffing up on such references and vocabulary.
There's just something about the story line that really draws me in. Why am I rambling on and on about this beloved show, you ask? I suppose I'm rambling due to the show's ability to inspire me. (Don't laugh too hard at the thought of this TV show inspiring me.)
Call me crazy, but, my years spent in an elementary classroom have left me feeling as though I now have "elementary brain." I find myself missing literature and... dare I say... studying. Yes I, the girl who was BEYOND ready to be finished with school (ironic considering my choice in profession), have begun feeling the itch to go back. Now, I could find myself wanting to eat these very words tomorrow... but for the time being, I'm actually tossing the idea around in my head.
I just want to feel well educated. The typical phrase for most teachers is that we consider ourselves to be "lifelong learners." I suppose I really do just want to live up to that. As mentioned in my previous post, I've always loved English whether it was the study of literature or the time spent writing. I'm wondering if that jump to middle school or high school really could be my next step. I'm kind of excited at the prospect of change. I take that back, I'm very excited at the thought of change.
I've got several months to pray, and potentially study for the good 'ole Praxis. In the meantime I'll continue to enjoy my Gilmore Girls marathons and all the dreams that this dear show brings about in me.
let go...
*Warning: this is a lengthy spill-it-all kind of post.*
I just want to expose my heart, and not worry about who will or won't read this or worry about their opinions for that matter. The new school year has started. My goals are proving to be very difficult again this year. I have set out to rely on God for patience and the positive energy needed to really touch my kiddos' hearts and get them excited about learning. Sadly, the negativity that surrounds me in my building and district along with the outrageous demands they continue to place on us have made it a struggle, even in week 2.
These past few years have been very trying for me. I took on a position that has left me stressed, anxious, and emotionally exhausted almost daily. Yes, teaching itself is a very difficult job (I was well aware when I signed up for the gig) but the district I chose to work for has really taken the heart out of teaching. I'm still battling doubts of teaching altogether, but I know I was given this passion for a reason. I know God has a plan for my skills and my love for children.
The reality that He is placing in my heart and on my mind is that I am wasting precious moments, precious breaths; this one precious life on to-do lists, lesson plans, lesson plan preparation, and to sum it all up--- STRESS. I am once again reminded of Francis Chan's Crazy Love and the painful truth that I am basically saying God is not enough- that He is not big enough to provide for me and guide me through this job. A wise, beautiful woman once told me that God is the ultimate of all careers and professions. He is the ultimate teacher and everything I need to reach those children is in His hands. I just have to ask for the guidance and lay these worries at his feet. A fellow blogger posted a great printable that said something along the lines of, "I can do anything. I can't do everything." God is reminding me of this. I can only do so much.
I was always the girl who knew what she wanted. My friends always knew I would become a teacher. I run into acquaintances from high school and they never fail to say, "I always knew you would be a teacher." The problem isn't that I don't want to teach. (Although, as previously stated, the disheartening nature of my job has left me curious about my abilities in the field). The issue is that I am left wondering where I can best meet the needs of kids while also enjoying them, the art of teaching, and my life outside of work. I have tossed around the idea, for a year or so now, of possibly moving upward into secondary education. I have always had a passion for writing and English. This, of course, was ignited by an amazing teacher and mentor from high school. I just don't know. I don't know where He wants me. I am trying to listen and seek his direction for my life.
I'm learning that it is OK to be unsure... it is OK to admit that I am unhappy in my current position. There is no shame in possibly needing to venture outside of the elementary walls. I have always worried about judgment from others. I have always worried about letting everyone down or not measuring up. I can no longer live that way. The only expectations I should worry about living up to are God's.
I apologize for the lengthy post, if you made it down this far. Sometimes you just need to clear your mind and clear your heart in order to continue on (and in order to find rest). Prayers are welcome as I continue this journey. I do love my students, I just pray I can do them justice while fighting the demands of my district.
Here's to living this life to His glory, and remembering that all this stress won't have an effect on my eternity.
I just want to expose my heart, and not worry about who will or won't read this or worry about their opinions for that matter. The new school year has started. My goals are proving to be very difficult again this year. I have set out to rely on God for patience and the positive energy needed to really touch my kiddos' hearts and get them excited about learning. Sadly, the negativity that surrounds me in my building and district along with the outrageous demands they continue to place on us have made it a struggle, even in week 2.
These past few years have been very trying for me. I took on a position that has left me stressed, anxious, and emotionally exhausted almost daily. Yes, teaching itself is a very difficult job (I was well aware when I signed up for the gig) but the district I chose to work for has really taken the heart out of teaching. I'm still battling doubts of teaching altogether, but I know I was given this passion for a reason. I know God has a plan for my skills and my love for children.
The reality that He is placing in my heart and on my mind is that I am wasting precious moments, precious breaths; this one precious life on to-do lists, lesson plans, lesson plan preparation, and to sum it all up--- STRESS. I am once again reminded of Francis Chan's Crazy Love and the painful truth that I am basically saying God is not enough- that He is not big enough to provide for me and guide me through this job. A wise, beautiful woman once told me that God is the ultimate of all careers and professions. He is the ultimate teacher and everything I need to reach those children is in His hands. I just have to ask for the guidance and lay these worries at his feet. A fellow blogger posted a great printable that said something along the lines of, "I can do anything. I can't do everything." God is reminding me of this. I can only do so much.
I was always the girl who knew what she wanted. My friends always knew I would become a teacher. I run into acquaintances from high school and they never fail to say, "I always knew you would be a teacher." The problem isn't that I don't want to teach. (Although, as previously stated, the disheartening nature of my job has left me curious about my abilities in the field). The issue is that I am left wondering where I can best meet the needs of kids while also enjoying them, the art of teaching, and my life outside of work. I have tossed around the idea, for a year or so now, of possibly moving upward into secondary education. I have always had a passion for writing and English. This, of course, was ignited by an amazing teacher and mentor from high school. I just don't know. I don't know where He wants me. I am trying to listen and seek his direction for my life.
I'm learning that it is OK to be unsure... it is OK to admit that I am unhappy in my current position. There is no shame in possibly needing to venture outside of the elementary walls. I have always worried about judgment from others. I have always worried about letting everyone down or not measuring up. I can no longer live that way. The only expectations I should worry about living up to are God's.
I apologize for the lengthy post, if you made it down this far. Sometimes you just need to clear your mind and clear your heart in order to continue on (and in order to find rest). Prayers are welcome as I continue this journey. I do love my students, I just pray I can do them justice while fighting the demands of my district.
Here's to living this life to His glory, and remembering that all this stress won't have an effect on my eternity.
Sweet summertime...
One week in and I'm already so thankful for the rest and joy I've encountered on this break. My sweet niece has made life far more beautiful than I could imagine and I am awestruck by her sweet giggle, smile, and those hugs that truly snatch the breath from your chest.
Her mother, my beautiful sister and dearest friend, teaches me daily what it means to be a real woman in this world. I am so grateful for the time spent curled up in her cozy home just laughing, talking, and even learning how to bake. :)
I truly love all things simple. Some of the best times I have are spent at my siblings' home eating pizza, sharing stories, and just being real. I have a great family. I don't pretend to not have my moments with them, of course. We are all flawed. I'm just so thankful for their love and forgiveness.
The Lord has instilled a passion in me to clean up and clean out my life. I am working to strengthen my faith and perspective of God through time in the word, book studies, and fellowship. This summer is a wonderful opportunity to devote time to rearranging my priorities. I am learning daily to release the control I try so hard to have. His plans are the only plans worth pursuing... even when I am unaware of what those plans may lead to.
I have a summer bucket list going and I am looking forward to crossing off some (if not all) the items before beginning the surge into a new school year. I'm ready to take on year 3 with a new attitude.
This blog has been neglected, but I hope to better utilize it in the coming months. I hope you all are having a wonderful summer and remember to slow down once in awhile. It's crazy how much we miss seeing when we are in such a hurry to live.
Her mother, my beautiful sister and dearest friend, teaches me daily what it means to be a real woman in this world. I am so grateful for the time spent curled up in her cozy home just laughing, talking, and even learning how to bake. :)
I truly love all things simple. Some of the best times I have are spent at my siblings' home eating pizza, sharing stories, and just being real. I have a great family. I don't pretend to not have my moments with them, of course. We are all flawed. I'm just so thankful for their love and forgiveness.
The Lord has instilled a passion in me to clean up and clean out my life. I am working to strengthen my faith and perspective of God through time in the word, book studies, and fellowship. This summer is a wonderful opportunity to devote time to rearranging my priorities. I am learning daily to release the control I try so hard to have. His plans are the only plans worth pursuing... even when I am unaware of what those plans may lead to.
I have a summer bucket list going and I am looking forward to crossing off some (if not all) the items before beginning the surge into a new school year. I'm ready to take on year 3 with a new attitude.
This blog has been neglected, but I hope to better utilize it in the coming months. I hope you all are having a wonderful summer and remember to slow down once in awhile. It's crazy how much we miss seeing when we are in such a hurry to live.
Blog-worthy reminder...
Courtesy of Shannon over at Sweet Blessings:
I needed to see this. I hope it serves a purpose for you as well!
"When I am consumed by my problems – stressed out by my life, my family, my job – I actually convey the belief that I think the circumstances are more important than God’s command to always rejoice. In other words, that I have a “right” to disobey God because of the magnitude of my responsibilities. Worry implies that we don’t quite trust that God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what is happening in our lives. Stress says that the things we are involved in are important enough to merit our impatience, our lack of grace toward others, or our tight grip of control. Basically, these two behaviors communicate that it’s OK to sin and not trust God because the stuff in my life is somehow exceptional. Both worry and stress reek of arrogance. They declare our tendency to forget that we’ve been forgiven, that our lives here are brief, that we are headed to a place where we won’t be lonely, afraid, or hurt ever again, and that in the context of God’s strength, our problems are small, indeed. Why are we so quick to forget God? Who do we think we are?"
Crazy Love by Francis Chan
The "phase of life" that I have been experiencing hasn't been a very pretty one. Ask those around me, I am quite the debbie downer/complainer these days. I am very aware of how weak I am in faith, and it's quite a hard realization to battle. This excerpt was such a striking reminder of what it means to rest our faith in God.
I needed to see this. I hope it serves a purpose for you as well!
This, that, and the other.
(courtesy of: masika wa)
I have been feeling very convicted lately in terms of passing judgment. I'm tired of the wasted conversation spent criticizing other people, instead of loving them. This is something I really need to focus prayer on.
In other news, I'm finding that change is something I am yearning for on every level. I have always been one to grow tired of life's routine. I crave spontaneity, adventure, and opportunities to learn. I feel as though we are surrounded by beauty but rarely take the time to explore and envelop ourselves in it. This coming year I will be changing my living arrangements to work on saving up for a few trips outside of the U.S. This is something I have always wanted to do and refuse to just talk about. Time to take action.
I am preparing for my second year of teaching, and boy am I excited (but very nervous). Lots of changes have gone down in terms of the structure of our school and my team. I'm anxious to see how this year will go. I just pray that I have grown enough to help my students make larger gains.
Have I mentioned how much I LOVE Pinterest? I suppose it also has helped light the fire for change in my life. Feel free to follow me here!
Updates on my room coming later this week! Tomorrow is day 1 of facing the chaos! :)
Have I mentioned how much I LOVE Pinterest? I suppose it also has helped light the fire for change in my life. Feel free to follow me here!
Updates on my room coming later this week! Tomorrow is day 1 of facing the chaos! :)
"Let the rain come down, tonight."
Sometimes solitude is very soul fulfilling.
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Well folks, there are great things happening in the blogosphere!
1. A $20 gift card giveaway over at Target Treasures. Saweet!
2. Little Literacy Learners has a one year membership to Graphics Factory! ONE WHOLE YEAR!
I'll be posting later this week about the lovely items crossed off of my to-do list!
Summer sure is flying by!
Favorite fonts & 10 Things About Me!
Well all, in an effort to keep my mind busy I figured I would join in on my first linky parties. Today was a difficult day as Lovebug was admitted into Children's Mercy due to a spiked fever, dehydration, and difficulty feeding. She is doing MUCH better now, and we're praying for a full recovery by Friday.
SO- onto the fun stuff. Finally in First has been having a great linky party about favorite fonts! I've been a fan of discovering new (and might I mention FREE) fonts for awhile now. Here are a few of my favorites:
Top Ten Things to Know About Me:
10. I could eat ice cream every single night.
9. I am ecstatic that I can be Auntie Naenae to such a beautiful little lovebug.
8. Ever since kindergarten, I planned on being a teacher.
7. Love me some 80's movies.
6. I had a puppy named Charlie for 4 days. Miss him, but he's a happy & spoiled pup now!
5. I LOVE my job, even when my kiddos drive me crazy.
4. I am not a happy camper when my upstairs neighbors are loud.
3. Sweet tea is a summer favorite of mine.
2. I don't rely on caffeine so much as I do skittles during the school year.
1. I'm still learning this whole blogosphere bit, so feel free to offer tips!
Thanks Mrs. Owens! She is also offering a fantastic giveaway: an "All in One Organizer!" What teacher wouldn't love such a great gift? :)
Meet Lovebug...
Hannah Renée Edwards
5 lbs 15 ounces
18 3/4 inches
Check out that beautiful dark hair!
She got the Asian genes that my sis and I were hoping for! :)
I'm so happy for my sister and brother-in law.
My sis did an AMAZING job after 28 hours of labor!!
I'm off to love on my little angel-of-a-niece some more!
My sis did an AMAZING job after 28 hours of labor!!
I'm off to love on my little angel-of-a-niece some more!
"Our time is but a breath, so we better breathe it..."
Well folks, it's time to really lay it all out there so-to-speak. I feel the need to really let my voice be heard and share a bit of a very important story with you all. Be forewarned... this might be a bit lengthy.
Hm, let's see.. where should I start? I guess I should begin by telling you that I was raised in a very loving home centered around God and His love. I went to church every Sunday, took part in vacation bible school in the summer time, etc. I was always called little miss "encourager" and had a very positive outlook on life.
I knew something was changing in me during my years in Junior High, and then the real storm hit in high school. Suddenly I was left feeling hopeless and had lost all care for this supposed faith of mine. I really fell apart. I couldn't see the good in life and couldn't get my brain to leave me be. I hit rock bottom, and it was quite ugly... I have the marks to prove it.
I finally sought professional help my sophmore year of college after a crushing break-up sent me over the edge. I realized that if I didn't have the strength or motivation to get out of bed, I really needed to seek medical help. I had always hated the idea of medicating myself when so many people face challenges in life without the need for pills. It wasn't up to me anymore, though.
The medicine really did help, to my surprise. I found myself able to handle life and the roller coaster of emotions much better. There was still a void, though. Something just wasn't right.
This past year was quite a whirlwind. Another relationship came to a close, I began my career in teaching, moved out on my own for the first time, and my Grandpa passed away. I was definitely at another crossroads in life. Suddenly, one night while sitting by my Christmas tree, I found the desire to go pick a book up off the shelf: Captivating. Let me say that I had this book mailed to me years before, but had never felt the desire to read it. Wow. It hit me like a crashing wave... suddenly I had tears flooding down. "In love, he has to block her attempts until, wounded and aching, she turns to HIM and HIM ALONE for her rescue."
The adventure of discovering/renewing my faith is still very new. I am learning daily. Something I feel so excited to share is my recent decision, with His help, to get off my medication. I had gone a week or so before without it just by mistake, but recently I found myself not feeling the emotional lows without it. I prayed and prayed, and came to the decision that I no longer needed this medication. I'm learning to lay it all at His feet.
I'm thankful for every low I've faced and every trial I've overcome with His love. I've learned that He was always there, just watching and waiting- loving me despite my determination to live life without Him. I'm blessed beyond words, and hope that this bit of honesty will offer some hope.
I feel free and oh-so-ready to live.
"Summa, Summa, Summa-time..."
Phew. Just got home a couple days ago from tackling 50 miles over 3 days. It was such an exhilarating experience! Walking for such an important cause really put things into perspective!
Well, it's time for the summer to-do list!
1. Pool days with dear friends.
2. Tackle my work/classroom to-do list!
3. Craft, craft, craft.
4. Learn to make pottery.
5. Fit in a road-trip or two.
6. Eat lots of popsicles.
7. Get involved @ Redeemer.
8. Lessen Avoid make-up!
9. Read, read, read!
The list could go on! I'm so ready to keep busy doing all the things that summer has to offer!
Hope you all have similar lists of fun and relaxation!
"Faith without deeds is dead." Brooke Fraser
The crashing waves are calling my name. My soul is aching for renewal.
"Now that I have seen, I am responsible." Brooke Fraser Albertine
"To make a difference." What exactly does that mean? I've lined my mouth with those words for years. "What is your life goal," you ask? I reply, "to make a difference."
I yearn to live a more simplistic life. I want to give, not take.
There are hearts to be touched. Hands to be held. Eyes to open.
It's beyond time to jump in...
"A single idea can make a big difference in the world." Blake Mycoskie
One Day Without Shoes | www.onedaywithoutshoes.com
(source: TOMS)
I can't wait to go barefoot and share this powerful message with my second graders!
Won't you join in on April 5, 2011?
Check it out ^
I can't wait to go barefoot and share this powerful message with my second graders!
Won't you join in on April 5, 2011?
"It is impossible to value things you do not live."
I find myself lacking words today... but feel as though this beautiful verse sums up most of what I am feeling. This is what I plan to do. I will seek peace and pursue it.
Love you all. Enjoy some fresh air and pray for the snow to stay far, FAR, away. :)
"I am learning how to be content in whatever state I am." Phillipians 4:11
I find myself feeling very refreshed tonight. Day by day I am discovering the beauty in the midst of all the gray. I previously mentioned my case of the "winter blues," and was encouraged by a dear friend to begin searching for hobbies that might bring some light into the darkness. Crafting is a new interest of mine- and one I am going to give a solid effort. (Pictures to come soon).
(found on suzyhumanity)
Now, of course, that does not mean that I am no longer craving the vibrant colors of Spring. I am still itching to get outside more. I always feel that breathing becomes a bit easier in the Spring (through the lungs and within my soul).
On an even better note, I am ecstatic to share the news that I will soon be the aunt of a beautiful little girl! My sister and her hubby are thrilled, as is the rest of the family, about this little lovebug! Let the spoiling commence! :)
On that adorable note, I'm off until next time. Enjoy your weekend!
"Count your blessings not your problems."
This time off also has me dreaming of crafts, cooking, and warmer weather adventures. I have quite the growing to-do list. The trouble with all this down time is in finding far too many inspirational blogs. If you can really consider that a problem. :)
What's on this to-do list, you wonder? Well.. I'll share a little glimpse:
1. Thrift more + Craft more = Spend less.
2. Add more color to life. (wardrobe, apartment, etc).
3. Nerd it up- read, read, read.
4. Expand my vocabulary.
5.Travel Experience life in other cultures.
6. Take more photos.
7. COOK!
What's on this to-do list, you wonder? Well.. I'll share a little glimpse:
1. Thrift more + Craft more = Spend less.
2. Add more color to life. (wardrobe, apartment, etc).
3. Nerd it up- read, read, read.
4. Expand my vocabulary.
5.
6. Take more photos.
7. COOK!
Well, I'm off to continue browsing blogs, blowing my nose, and drinking some good 'ole orange juice.
Stay safe and warm!
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12
I don't know about all of you but I certainly have a case of the winter-time blues. Don't get me wrong, I love a good dose of powdery fun and all that comes with it- but I'm ready for some sunshine and fresh air. (I tend to become quite the hermit in the cold). I'm ready for a new adventure or two.
(found on suzyhumanity)
New blog title: Sink or Swim. Now, granted this phrase usually reflects a sense of self-rescue... I look at it in a slightly different way. I see it as meaning we either choose to succumb to the daily grind and the pain that is so often part of our lives- or we look up and ask for a new light to be shed on the situation. I think it goes hand-in-hand with a great quote I found years back, "Pain can give you sight or make you blind." I choose sight. I choose to swim.
I have been incredibly inspired by several blogs lately to spice up some aspects of my life. Thanks to my sis, I've found several blogs that will help me in my journey to cleanse. I also have a handful of blogs that inspire me to dabble in more artistic ventures such as crafting around the apartment. I'm an avid thrift store shopper and love a good flea market or garage sale find. I'm itching for Spring weather so that I can get out and about to find some trinkets.
I have been incredibly inspired by several blogs lately to spice up some aspects of my life. Thanks to my sis, I've found several blogs that will help me in my journey to cleanse. I also have a handful of blogs that inspire me to dabble in more artistic ventures such as crafting around the apartment. I'm an avid thrift store shopper and love a good flea market or garage sale find. I'm itching for Spring weather so that I can get out and about to find some trinkets.
Funny side note: I was asked for the billionth time if I live alone today, then this person proceeded to mention that most single women want cats. Ha. How stereotypical. I'd rather have a dog, thanks. :)
P.S. The blog is in the midst of a little revamping... pardon the lack of a decent header and what not.
Restoration.
"In love, he has to block her attempts until, wounded and aching,
she turns to HIM and HIM ALONE for her rescue."
she turns to HIM and HIM ALONE for her rescue."
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