Signs.

John Mayer's new CD is strumming throughout the speakers of the house tonight, chili is simmering deliciously on the stove, and I notice a new sign hanging on the wall in bright red shouting "This is the life"

Over to my right I see "It's not about perfect. It's about effort and when you implement that effort into your life.. Every single day, that's where transformation happens. That's how change occurs. Keep going. Remember why you started.

And behind me sits "It is what it is." Amen sign.

And every day before I leave the house I see a sign that says 'think'

One in the booth I sit in says 'Oh!'

To my right may be my favorite...

They all hold some sort of meaning or relevance right now. And there isn't a day I come home not happy to live in this little oasis. Thank goodness it fell onto my plate. 

Because life is all about effort and what you are expecting to get from it. My dad recently said "maybe we are just expecting too much out of people, if we just lower our expectations and expect people not to do the things were are expecting we are less likely to be let down."

A couple weeks ago a situation at school occured while I handled it in a way I thought was appropriate. Others did not agree. And guess what, that is okay because in life people are bound to not appreciate your point of view, and there are always going to be people that are out to get you. To lie to you. Stab you in your back. Argue. Judge. And just down right do things differently than you. And I embrace that. 

I have also learned recently that just when you think people aren't going to let you down, they darn right go and do it. Bugger. Thank goodness for my house signs. You are always in a battle with life. Life will always hand you lemons, its how you handle it that will get you out alive or hold you down.  

All of these combined effort of life lessons has come down to one thing that I day and night, even in my dreams am dreaming about. That is teaching. I have teachers tell me every day. And multiple teachers tell me every day. You have to want to do this. Teaching is not how it was 5, 10, even 15 years ago. You have to want to make a difference. You have the opportunity to influence, even change, thousands of lives.

Woah people! Pump the brakes!! Information overload. But it's true, and I have found that out. You get an inside look into each of your kids and you see their family struggles, their struggles making friends. And so, so, so much more!

But here is what keeps me going......

- Making a train track and having students track their progress and once they reach the train station they get an ice cream party.

- Learning their favorite color and making flashcards based off of it. 

- Reading about an oceanographer and having five fourth graders surrounding you totally engaged. All for the points in AR/RR. And finding out the boys love and know so many sea creatures.

- Finding a fourth grader in the hallways sobbing and taking her to safe quarters to let her know all will be well.

- Having a fifth grader come up to me with a book of jokes and informing me of how lame the book of jokes is and still proceeding to tell me jokes.

- Giving an assessment and having the last question be interrupted with a outburst of "This is kindergarten stuff, this is wicked easy"

- Having kids storm out of your room, slamming doors, and coming back a minute late apologizing for being distracting.

- Finding random notes on your desk from kiddos letting me know I'm cool.

- Having an applause walking into fifth grade the first day of MEAP. Hello embarrassing and totally unnecessary.

- Having an awards lunch where I sat with kids at lunch for a special treat. The conversations kiddos have are hilarious. And I loved every minute.

- Having a whole class grill me on who I am and what I'm all about. 

My three favorite moments so far. The moment when everything clicks with a student or a class.

- When someone is so comfortable with you to share about you at home. Who confides in you. And shares things they won't even share with their full time teachers.
     --- This part makes leaving in Dec. challenging. 

-- Having girls do amazing on a math test. Girls you work so intensively with. And having one of them come up to with you a big smile on their face saying "I've never scored that high on a math test"

--- But today. While leaving math walking down the hallway a little girl walking with me grabbed my hand. And said "You make my best friend list, you aren't number one, but you are number two." Let go of my hand gave me a hug and kept walking. This is the same girl earlier who was upset over math, looked up at me asking for help. We worked through it. She told me she liked me. I smiled and said thank you and told her "You know when I like you best too?" Her response "When I do my work" -- exactly chica sans the tears. 

---- Okay and maybe there are four. I met with two new students I am working with today. Terrified they came with me to my room. I informed them I would be helping them learn to read. Collecting a bunch of data today they looked terrified and nervous to mess up. I told them this is the place to mess up and that's how I will help them best, by showing me their mistakes. Instant smiles. Boom POW! 


The moment ANY light bulb goes off. And a simple smile mean A LOT!
Having a girl from a class I do not even work in come up to me every day for a week with a apple. 

I love my job. Despite the distance from family, my pup and Brad. But there isn't much I would change, minus the lack of pay. I'm growing in my profession and that is pretty awesome!

I am learning something every day. And it is through my students. I'm trying to teach them something too along the way.

Expectations

Expectations are a funny thing. We expect a lot out of things from day to day. We all have dreams and hopes for the expectations of different events, and let's be honest we all hope they come out close to what we are expecting, however sometimes we are a little let down.

Going to Africa for instant I had certain expectations of what I was expecting to see. Wow there is a lot of expectations, etc. going on in this post, but it's going somewhere... Anyways, I had great expectations I was super nervous for the plane ride, nervous about who I was rooming with, and anxious to see kiddos and that I would be home sick. Yes there was terbulance, there was some awkward roomie situations, and yes there were slew of emotions when I was introduced and worked with the kiddos. I was a little home sick too, not in a way I wanted to fly home right away, but in a way where I wanted them there with me for the end of the days when I was exhausted from emotions. But I made it through and all my expectations were exceeded, and yes I still want to go back.

So this summer... I had a lot of expectations too. I went through so many interviews with wonderful families who welcomed me into their homes and were hopeful that I would be the right fit for their children. After several phone interviews and in person interviews and some many days of uncertainty that I would not find a summer job. Well I did, as many of you know. 

With this job there were many expectations, I felt that this job was going to replace the job I was leaving behind of three little boys, and fill a spot of my heart with three little girls of nearly the same ages. Well it did in ways. But yes my expectations of what I was getting myself into fell a little short. A couple weeks short actually, my last week is this week.

Anyways out of every situation in life when expectations are reached or have fallen a little bit short you learn something every day and you grow. I would be lying if I said I did not leave some days in tears, that I didn't call my mom or Brittany defeated, or when I would come home and slave away in the kitchen because of the sheer stress I was under. But I grew and I am still growing. I have always had a mind set to want to change the world or to help out families, hence why I spend my free time being a nanny. Sometimes people aren't ready to accept a nanny into their family, or are too overwhelmed to have one. Through these experiences I have learned more patience, more ways to help people out, have a listening ears, I have become more aware of community resources, and I have also learned to stick up for myself (hence my last week a bit early). I have also learned, which will be a long learning lesson for me, and something those who know the situation have helped me a lot with -- is that sometimes you just owe people your time, energy, or committment any longer. You can only do so much. And with that I will walk away a better person, and maybe begin on a manuscript for some type of book, just kidding.

Not all my expectations for this summer have fallen short though, I am not some sad, depressed girl over here at all!! My other expectations were to plan our wedding and to complete all my school courses and our little unexpected, expected surprise Ellie! came into our lives! There is a very cute post coming about that little nugget. We have got a ton of wedding planning done, and I have been able to do it side by side with Brad which has been nice. We have been able to explore this side of the state together and visit some friends for a great little mini vacay! And of course we have been home bodies in Holland, and in Southfield with our puppy training and just taking in the summer. So with my couple weeks of freedom before starting to teach I will wrap up our wedding crafts, planning, etc and will be snuggling that pup. I will also spend some time recovering from my surgery, I am telling you there is never a dull moment! And unfortunately I will more than likely say goodbye to a loved one. Prayers still appreciated!! For now I am still growing, learning, and loving!

All good and dandy! Happy Monday Friends! 

East Side Living

Life has a funny way of sneaking up on you and teaching you little lessons when you are least expecting it. Life has changed so much over the past month and a half. I had several interviews that turned into a job that would lead me on a new adventure. I packed my bags said goodbye to my Kalamazoo life until August and moved my life to the east side.

I started working for a mom who has three girls ranging from newborn to 4 year old. Holy girl world. Let's just say going from a boy world to a girl world. WOAH! Watch out. It's been a challenge, the whole move. But one that I know I need and will grow so much from.

There are challenges every Tuesday-Friday ones that are testing my patience, my being really. But I am growing and learning. And know that I was placed in my current job for a reason.

As I keep reminding myself: 'You can take the girl out of the west side, but you cannot take the west side out of the girl.'

All will be well.


As far as life goes outside of the life of a nanny, life is great. The wedding planning is off the rocker for being a year out, but I do hear that the year flies. Plans are coming together nicely, and it gets me excited.

But before I get too far ahead of myself I must admit I am more excited about the events in our family far before I am eager to tie the knot. I mean don't get me wrong, I am super excited about getting married, but I love seeing my family so happy! 

Anyways.... Here is life as of late nothing too exciting but I am cooking a lot more and getting creative with the girlies! 

We color ALOT -- I am trying to get the girls to venture out and explore new things like treasure hunts, and even baking cookies. Oh and the biggest challenge trying new food!

Cannot complain about much because the view I get to look at throughout the week is great and the service is rather enjoyable too. Best of both world a taste of a 'lake' and the pool!

Two year olds capture my heart almost instantly I love where their development is at. A2 and I made homemade chalk paint --- it dried SO cool and so bright! Then A3 came home and dumped it all over the driveway. Rebel.

Nothing like going home and spending time with family. Over Fathers Day weekend we were able to jump on the boat for a quick ride and have a delicious meal at Phil and Sams house!

The perks of living so close to downtown Detroit -- The Tigers! And cheap tickets and exploring the stadium makes for some pretty sweet pictures!

Brad makes fun of me for taking pictures of our meals, I think I have about seven photos of tasty looking meals I made. I am no Paula Dean (did I just say that?!) but I am working on my cooking skills over here! Ribs! And this years asparagus is amazing!

Stay tuned for our latest addition, she is mighty cute with a spunky personality!

But, it's my day off I have errands to run, running to run, and laundry that always seems to pile up! Happy Monday! 

Three Little Boys

Tomorrow concludes by three almost four years with a family I have grown to call my own, and with that a tribute is formed.

We call Tuesday my 'Faux- last day' because we all know that I will really never have a last day with my favorite little critters. But regardless tomorrow will bring an eerie feeling of what a new reality and move will bring. I have called the household that holds my three sweet little souls my second home for most of my college career and regardless of any college memory I will look back on my littles and be so beyond thankful for the opportunity, the experience, and the love felt within those walls. 

Starting the job I met Bo all little and cute and a petite mom with a pop of baby in her tummy which would mean I would fall hard for little monkey Asch-man. And not short after, and after not thinking my heart had more love to love on another baby boy, another little would come, and Preston made three!

The title of being a nanny seemed odd to some and was quite confused by others on what it really meant, and while I sometimes thought it was a silly title I believed that I truly did make a decent nanny. While starting the job loving children and wanting to continue to work with kiddos, and make some money while doing it was my main priority, I happily accepted the job. What I received was so much more than I ever anticipated, and what I recieved from a family other than my own,I never could have imagined.

I fell hard and I have put so much of myself into those kids lives these past several years that despite any course work or school load I always had the best intentions and always came bright eyed and bushy tailed to love and make those boys feel proud of the little men they are becoming. Its hard for me, actually very hard for me, to put into words the work that I have done throughout the years. It has been challenging, rewarding, loving, caring, kind, frustrating, funny, teaching, adorable, messy, crazy, loud,  yet despite any situation I was faced with I always came out with a smile and I always, always felt love.

It always amazed me while taking care of the boys, espically the babies, how much they depend on someone to love and be there to care for them and how helpless and depenedent babies actually are. But those boys loved me and they relied on me through everything and they still do. I have watched on numerous accounts them interact with their parents and need from them what every child needs from their parents. And while my heart has melted watching those interactions, I watched as three boys began to rely and need some of the same, yet very different things from me. I was the one who will laugh when they are naughty (on occasion) or do something they shouldn't be, I will be the one to say 'no thanks' when they're attempting to do something they KNOW is wrong... I'm the one who gets creative, dances around the house, asks for hugs with cars in my hands, bakes goodies that are no good for anyone, takes on challenges because I know the outcome will be one not to miss. I became creative I started to see a side of myself that at twenty-two I never thought I would be in the position to see -- I saw myself becoming maternal, protective, and constantly wanting to put the kiddos best interest far beyond my own. I was living in years of college where I started to lose sight of who I was and what I wanted -- however each day I spent with those boys they reminded exactly why I was at Western and most importantly why I am going into what I am going into. 

Bo-Bo the sweet, little, innoccent biggest brother. I will NEVER forget my first day on the job shadowing the other girl who was leaving. Let's put it this way a virus that infected his intestines. Enough said, my first day was messy and smelly. That day I learned how vulnerable littles were and how much these kiddos needed support and love throughout their days. Bo had the personality that anyone would love, he was active, loving, and a little snuggle bug.  As he has grown into the little man he is today he in a gentle-hearted, loving, demanding, yet he shows so much intelligence and curiosity for the world around him. I could write a novel over the conversations we have had at bed time or the quiet times we have shared during nap times. The kid is  genious and I LOVE that he keeps me on my toes. Bo will always be a solid reminder of why I chose early childhood education to call my future profession. He teaches me each and every day more and more about the world. And keeps me wanting to make myself a better educator and person.

Asch Monkey stole my heart the minute he made his debut into this world. Still one of the most beautiful babies I have ever seen, Ascher captured my heart.  I will always love how free spirited, rebellious and determined that little man is. I love his snuggle nature, and his hard headed, stubbornness too. I love his out of the corner eye look and his own little language that I actually understand and get. Asch has taught me so much, the words I can't get down today, but my heart feels it. What I can say is I always made sure I told him I was proud of him. He's a determined little man and has so much love to give. I also admire the way he looks up to Bo and how their relationship as brothers has grown over the past several months. It is beautiful.

And then there is sweet baby Preston. Or as Bo referred to him before he came to be himself 'Baby Watermelon.'  I will never forget the day that I found out that Preston would be arriving in about six months, it was bath time and I was trying to multi-task and fold laundry while supervising the kiddos in the bathtub. As I was folding I came across a maternity and almost simultaneously Bo informed me that "mommy has a baby in her belly" that night revealed that Preston would arrive in June. Little did I know that five days after returning from Africa that Preston would make his debut and captivate my heart and become my little buddy. Presto is hard to put into words, he's more of a feeling, the world is a happier place because he is in it and he isn't even a year old. He has shown me that there is good in every day, you can wake up with a smile on your face, and is a true example of a beautiful, funny, little character, happy baby boy. He has shown me the heart has SO much room for love, actually all three boys have shown me the capacity for love is endless.

Each day I walked thru their door I was reminded that the day was young, new and had any potential you wanted to make it. That is a gift so few feel, but so many need.I have felt something I have thought I would as a college-aged student. I am so honored, so blessed with who the family has accepted me to be. I am so thankful for the tears that I have shed on their couch with guidance throughout it all. I have been spoiled, loved, cherished, and I have felt appreciated for the time, dedication,and love I have put into my job as a nanny. 

As I have always told them  "You is kind, you is smart, you is important" and as always  "I am proud of you." I am proud of every moment that had made each one of my favorite little boys who they are, so unique, so individual so them. So perfectly them. The moments I have shared throughout the years I will always keep in a special place in my heart, they will NEVER be replaced, but they will move on with me as I carry on. 

Tonight as I pack I am thankful for my three favorite little boys. Thankful. Blessed. Loved. 

When Life Hands you Lemons

Oh my long lost blog, how I've missed writing! 

However, it does make me so happy to see that my last post was my favorite love story captured in our engagement! And speaking of which we are happily in love, and busy planning and enjoying engagement bliss!

On top of all of the love I also finished up my course work for my program --- Halleluiah! Now all I have left is student teaching for a year! YIPPEE!! I also spent a week and a half in Florida with three little boys I love (make that four once Brad arrived!) --- that whole adventure deserves a post but for now a picture will do ( to come later)! I'm in love hard with those kiddos -- very blessed and thankful for the job.



Yes there is more details to sprinkle between the headlines of my life but for now I will relish in my latest life adventure. 

I am moving! 

After interview, after interview, etc. I finally was offered a job and i accepted! I will be moving to Brad's neck of the woods next week and starting my job the day after Memorial Day. With three beautiful little girls! I am so lucky and the job just fell into my hands! 

I have been searching for a new yoga studio, I have been googling farmers markets, and I have been packing up the past four years, two in this apartment to start a new adventure. It will be a change but a good one, that will allow for more growth, more time to spend planning that wedding!!

I am in a happy transition time right now one filled with love, chaos, and anxiety over how all will go! Cheers to new adventures! Happy Saturday! I'll be back with more details soon!

February 23, 2013 {Engaged}

I hope I can capture this day in a post like the day turned out in person. My weekend was just a typical trip home to spend time with Brittany since my last visit home I wasn't able to see her. It was also time to spend some quality time with my parents, my spring break was next week and I wasn't going to be able to make it home due to watching the boys and some school work. The previous week Brad had mentioned he was going home too but that to me meant I would probably see him once... little did I know.

Friday night as I was just getting into Holland Brad called after work to tell me he got hired in and off of contract at his company such exciting news!!!! On my way to Brittanys that night I stopped there to congratulate him and he said he wanted to take me on a date Saturday. I thought it was a little odd, but I would see what I could do.

Off to Brittanys I went. Sleepover time! That evening Britt was trying to get me to do my nails I didn't feel like fussing with the nail polish remover and having to pick out a new color, blah blah blah. Then the following morning she encouraged me to shower and get around first thing. Which I did once I got home but didn't want to fuss with that yet again. I met my parents at JP's for coffee and there my mom gave me hand lotion --- I had terribly dry hands so once again I didn't think anything of what my mom was doing or Britt. Little did I know.

I went shopping with my parents then we headed home I really wanted to go see puppy's at a shelter and then go wine tasting my dad initially said yes then after a quick trip to my neighbors he backed out. My mom offered to play board games all afternoon. Brad earlier had sent me a text with what time he was going to pick me up ---- I felt guilty leaving my parents so we decided to meet them for dinner after our two hour date. Little did I know...

So we left. All the way down Quincy I was guessing what we were going to do. Since he asked me to dress warm I figured we were going ice skating and I was determined that is what we were doing, there was no way he could trick me. Well no sooner had be told me no to ice skating were two lights flashing behind us... one red, one blue. Ticket. Speeding. Oops, in hindsight I'm sure he was nervous and he was on a time crunch. He wanted to get out of the car and talk to him but I thought he was crazy and that it was highly illegal!! On we went.

Brad started out our date by parking near the museum I got all excited and thought we were going to the museum. But he started by letting me know that I should not be expecting anything and that all he wanted to do was something special since I am always surprising him and doing nice things for him. With the conversation we had the weekend before [details.] I knew not to expect anything until the end of the year or until next year so I really truly did believe him. He then handed me what would be my first clue to the scavenger hunt. As you can see in the following pictures I really did not have any clue what would happen at the end and yes I was 110% surprised!

Our engagement story is best told with pictures... Enjoy!

First stop: Lemonjello's

Next stop: Skiles

Followed by: 84 East

Our Bar

New Holland Brewery

Starting to get suspicious: Curragh

JP's Coffee Shop

Subs & More

Seasoned Home

Outpost

Model Drug Apothecary

The whole time I was asking questions as to how he got all of these messages. I was also very curious to know if my parents knew what our surprise was. Question answered at 8th Street Grille

Time to grab some ice cream, we split one cause it was so cold. Coldstone

My last note given to me by the Cold Stone employee --- off for my walk alone!

At this point I was at Cold Stone and Brad told me he had to go to the bathroom and for me to find a seat. No sooner was I sitting down taking a bite of our ice cream was the girl who worked there walking towards me with the letter above. I was off to Centennial Park -- I was determined to beat him there cause there was no way he could've snuck out the back and me not cross path with me. Little did I know he was picked up by our secret photographers! Off I walked...

Once I got there I took my sweet time walking towards him I even snapped a couple pictures on my phone of him I was curious how he got the flowers so quick but didn't cross my mind what was about to happen. Once I reached the fountain he explained that the letters were a reminder of how loved and proud people think I am and that along the way I often times forget. I thought it was so sweet and that was all I thought was happening ---- boy was I wrong!

How the heck did he run there and get flowers, I was impressed!

Thanking him for the surprise!!

At this point and I kid you not bells were ringing and there was a nice snow falling silently around us.

Shocked, shaking, but SO excited!

No, I did not fall over I was putting the ice cream down, we never even ate it!

On it goes --- me asking if he asked my dad lol

I like this one :)

Checking out the bling!

The day was magical, beautiful, surprising, and so full of love! I want to box it all up and keep it forever. I'm hoping one day I will look back on this post and smile remembering it all. Brad has always been some sort of a romantic but he topped it with this proposal. I am forever grateful for the pictures captured along the way they will make for beautiful stories in the future. I am beyond excited and beyond happy!!

More love to come later! Until then I'm going to enjoy being engaged!

Thank you to everyone who made the trip, took part and congratulated us on our engagement!! We cannot wait to celebrate!

Falling in love....

..... with a career.

Wh at a day to write about love right?! While I'm busy between baking banana muffins, laundry, lesson planning, and cleaning after a longs week work.

I refer to Valentines day as "Happy Heart Day" or "Happy Love Day" because I think people have such a negative attitude about Valentines Day, and to be honest I do not need a day to tell those I love that I love them. However I do think that we can recognize this day full of love

 But as I'm getting to work in a classroom I have found that I am growing fond of this little love day. I was able to make my first valentines day cards for my students and I tried getting creative. Once I got to class this morning one of my students didn't bring a box I stepped in as 'mom' and whipped up a box. Put his name on some valentines and we called it a party!

I am in love with special education preschool. My heart is happy here!

Here are my reasons why in a nutshell!

Milestones
Nothing is better than seeing a student become potty trained or able to identify numbers, letters, or colors. I have been working with two of my students and have been tracking their progress. I am in awe and am so proud of how far they have come with their knowledge. For such little minds they sure hold a lot of knowledge. Not to mention they are adorable.
Little Friends &Giggles
"Grab a friend and let's head back to class" is the most precious sight. The kids in my class may be labeled with different disabilities but they do not see race, ability, male from female or disability. And it is truly so beautiful.
Pink Eye & Endless Colds 
I forgot how many germs littles carry. Well my body sure feels the effects of that. I have never had so many colds, but its worth it (kind of). Pink eye on the other hand. Holy moly! Seven out of Twelve kiddos have pink eye. Actually maybe more. Let's just say as precaution I have the drops and have been using them daily.
Honesty
This is huge to me right now. People need to be honest and trustworthy. My students will tell you if they hit 'Johnny' or is they take his toy. I love it. It's fresh, pure and my kiddos learn from it.
Smiles
Regardless of how tired I am I always greet the buses and get everyone off the buses in the morning. With the cold weather that job gets tricky. The minute those two feet step off the bus and the smiles race towards me the day is going to be a good one! I wish I could bottle the energy and smiles of my students and sell it. More people need it!
Support
I work with the most amazing teacher and para pro. They accepted me into their classroom from day one.  I am in awe of the work that my mentor teacher does. She has organized chaos and I am loving it. We collaborate on things, I bounce ideas off of her and offer my suggestions to her based off observations. And most importantly I am learning a lot and being able to put what I learn in my course work to use!
Inspiration
Each and every day I am inspired to do better, to improve on my practice and to give my students the very best they deserve. I am growing as a person, educator, and more importantly my heart is growing in love too!


The way I see it is that these kids have the future at their finger tips. While others like my preschoolers live like there is never going to be a tomorrow. What a way to live right?! My preschoolers show me each and every day how to love. How to love learning. How to love others. How to love sharing. How they love laughing, singing, and chatting about just about anything. They love drawing, creating and solving lifes mysteries found in puzzle pieces.

I find it so rewarding already how much of an impact you can have on such young kiddos. If you start them off with the right role models and sets of foundations they have

Middle School on the other hand is a completely different story... But they too offer their own story. They will write their way into my book one day. But for now I will relish in the little faces and happy faces I find each day I walk to greet the buses.

Love somebody today, but more importantly find love in something you do day in and day out.

Happy love day! I hope you have a happy heart!

Little Things

The smell of fresh baked blueberry muffins zips through the house and a little four year old is curled up next to me relaxing his bum leg and two littles sleeping upstairs. Bo and I cleaned his house today we moved toys out of the way, we vacuumed and rearranged and moved everything back. We dusted the dust off of the shelves that hold all of their toys and polished the pictures hung on the wall. We swept the floor covered with crumbs enjoyed around a scuffed up with memories around the family table. A baby stirs. Cartoons play muted out in the background. Cars zoom down a traffic ridden race track. All is calm.

Guess it's the teacher in me making play time educational --- story time focused on Dinosaurs!

Added a great aroma on the 'ice day'

This past weekend I experienced more calmness. Since I started up this semester I either teach or go to school five days a week (something I haven't done since my freshmen year!). Talk about a busy week and by the time the weekend rolls around I'm exhausted! However most of my weekends this month have been filled with overnights with the littles or dinner date nanny time. Don't get me wrong I love seeing the boys but every now and again a weekend off is much appreciated. Last weekend I slipped away to Farmington (first weekend off all semester!!!) and spent some quiet, sans preschoolers, middle schoolers, or toddlers! Oh, and homework --- snow days sure have a way of keeping you ahead of the game! We watched a lot of movies and made yummy food, covered fruit in chocolate to make the healthy taste even better hehe! And we of course splurged on our favorite take out and shared a bottle of bubbly! The X-games were on this weekend and we awed in admiration of talent those athletes have in the snow and as the events carried on my eye lids grew heavy and it lulled me to sleep.

Believe it or not I have not had a latte in three weeks until this one was purchased not by me, but Bradley!!

Spur of the moment delay led to adventures around Ann Arbor --- cannot wait for my next trip to enjoy some dinner and exploring AA.

Bubbly and Pitch Perfect --- talk about Perfect!

Homemade chicken and mushroom dish followed by yummy chocolate covered fruit -- everyone needs to splurge!

There is a change of pace when I got to Farmington I'm sure it is the company I share in and the quietness that covers the city, Brad's apartment building is occupied by a mix of couples, singles, elders, and small families so the atmosphere is soothing and calming. Over the course of the weekend I slept for 20 hours with a two hour nap in there. Talk about being rejuvenated and relaxed! As the weekend came to a close I packed my things and we headed for Ann Arbor where I took the train back to Kalamazoo! My intentions were good I carpooled to Farmington with Jen and was going to take the train back --- not using my gas and using other modes of transportation. Well with the combination of weather and delayed trains I got back to Kalamazoo three hours after I was supposed to. Can't say I won't do it again, but man oh mister was that frustrating!  I am definitely looking forward to working this weekend away again and then heading home to Holland for another escape of a fast paced world and of course to see my family!

I have been overwhelmed at times, filled with love, filled with laughter, filled with tears, filled with frustration, filled with worry, filled with gratitude, and filled with exhaustion. But I have also been filled with the feeling that I am right where I need to be and that with each one of those feelings I am being changed, molded and moved to become a better person. I am continuing to work on myself, like I mentioned in a earlier post, and with doing so I have been loving the little things!! Happy Wednesday all!

This semester I have been dedicating more time to working out -- this means early morning wake ups in order to make time for it. I have been enjoying the quiet mornings and the routines I have been working on establishing. This morning called for pancakes!

Martin Luther King Jr. Day meant a day off for us three rented movies, Chinese and a glass or two of wine we called it a great day!

Having a passion.

Over break I was ordered to go to my favorite nail place in Holland and to make an appointment with Jasmine, what awaited me was a gift certificate for a pedicure and a conversation with the woman I didn't know next to me. As I was catching up on celebrity gossip and soaking my feet the woman next to me commented on something on the news. I looked up agreed that it was horrible, and went back to reading my magazine.

The conversation continued and I listened, it went a little something like this:

L: Are you in school?
Me: Yes I am as Western Michigan University
L: What are you studying?
Me: Special Education
L: Oh one time... the conversation progressed into her going into subbing at the ISD to get more experience with that population of people/kids. Which I thought was a very insightful way to become more educated.... The conversation continued into how some of the children were very violent and could execute some of the same crimes that were committed by the 'Sandy Hook' dude could be done by some of the students at the ISD --- my wheels started to churn. She also spoke about the students she worked with that were on feeding tubes and other needs were individuals that just needed to be with God again. Blood boiling. She then got into the 'Sandy Hook' incident and gun control, and mental health. She then got talking about how the 'Downs' and 'Autistic' kids were this and that..... Talk about nails on a chalk board for me. She then proceed to get up and go to the other room.
Me: The only response I had to whole thing, or the only thing I could get in edge wise, is that the students that she feels that are threatening are more than likely frustrated and that regardless of their life circumstance every child has abilities that out due their disabilities. 


I like these conversations they make me think, they make me upset, but they make me realize that I need to voice the truth and educate others around me. It is also a reminder that I have a passion for a group of individuals that is undeniably apparent.

This conversation also sparked a conversation at dinner with my parent. My parents both had good points on how naive people can be when they are not surrounded by facts, and the truths behind what I am going into. More specifically we talked about the use of the 'r-word' and for those of you who are reading and becoming more aware of unaccpetable terminology in the field of special education and to those families and indivduals with disabilities the 'r-word' having the r + etard is not acceptable however many people use it to describe a bad day, etc. However to families it is hurtful and more importantly to individuals that are diagnosed with something it is offensive. The conversation escalated into how others around us don't always know the right way to address things and often times don't understand how others are affected. Unless there is a passion for this population. I have that passion.

Another topic my parents and I got on was person first language. This is rather new in the field and the terminology used but it is putting the person before the disability. They have an identity outside of their disability. Keep it in mind. For example she was diagnosed with Down Syndrome not they have 'downs.'

Yup I stepped up on my soap box but sometimes we all have to. I just strongly encourage people to be conscious of the language they are using in terms of people. For that matter terms they are using in public and with people they may not know, it is also important to watch out for those around you.

My dad had a good quote during our conversation, I wish I remembered it but regardless it was a good one and he should pretty much write down all his witty quotes, but it went back to me having a passion. I do, and I hope all of you do too.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Life Update: Final Semester Begins

Side-note: As this year gets under way I am marking the final semester at Western and am wrapping up all my course work and all the work I have left to do with Honors College. With that being said I am taking 19 credit hours and so far am LOVING it despite the work that it will entail. As I was on Facebook the other day I like how my friend Adriene put my work load: "It's a different kind of busy though." That it is I get to start my day with 10 beautiful preschoolers. I would be lying if I said I didn't tear up when they all trucked into the hall my first day with their winter coats on and their little faces starred at me. It took me back to the last time I was in a preschool class and yes, yes it was when I was in Dakar. My heart fluttered and yet again I felt like I was right where I had to be. I LOVE it. I can get used to singing songs, practicing names and letters, opening snacks and milk, tying shoes, planning crafts for the month, having my hair 'cut' while playing house, and zooming cars through the car village. And I love to hear all the stories about my students and how far they have come with their development and milestones. Makes my heart sing!

I also have very exciting news to announce! One of my classes I have is an independent study with Sarah who was my professor while I was in Dakar. I will be presenting at a conference in March for the Council for Exception Children in Grand Rapids. There will be more information coming soon! Until then I continue to grow in my field and soak into my last semester of course work at Western!

As for life I am trying to make changes and to better myself and relationships. I am falling into a routine of school, working out and relaxing. Not to mention getting to bed early, real early!! I am happy, things are falling into place and I keep praying that God continues to provide in areas that need work.

a new year

I cannot believe that a new year is here however I am still in awe over the past year of my life. I started 2012 ringing it in twice due to the time change experience in Chicago. I accomplished two of my goals for the year: I ran my first 10k and I went to Africa. I guess you could say I volunteered more through the organization Volunteer Kalamazoo.

This year has been amazing.

I am able to say that I spent three beautiful weeks half way around the world inside an amazing culture, surrounded with love, God, and some of my best friends. I touched the hands of so many beautiful souls who have stolen my heart forever. I am so thankful for the journey that took me to Dakar and for all the love and support from my family and friends.

Our family grew this April by one family member and it will again grow in October of 2013 as Phil and Sam get married. The wedding of Matt and Betsy was one for the books, however creating a larger family is something we welcome with open arms, it is an exciting experience and brings us closer as a family.

I was able to check off my number one bucket list item this summer by going to see Jason Mraz in concert. It was amazing and something I would not mind doing again! I spent the 4th of July weekend with family like usual and extended it to a camping adventure with friends in Ludington. I volunteered at Camp Sunshine again, however I watched in the crowd this year at the talent show instead of participating. I went hunting for the first time, I shot at a deer however I missed. Christmas held different traditions but the same meaning and time with family like always.

Our nation struggled with some heartache this year we had several devastating hurricanes and numerous shootings. However, out of each one of these incidents we honor amazing individuals who step up to the plate and become heroes.

I am still in awe in all that I have been blessed with this year and how many lessons I have learned along the way. I am continually growing and learning and have been so lucky to surround myself with beautiful people this past year. I have learned to put aside some of the drama in my life and to continue to focus on what means the most and to stay surrounded by people will help build me up and support me. 

I have always been a fan of the number 13 and what better year than 2013 to have big things happen. I will wrap up my course work in my program and will be one step closer to graduation. I will begin student teaching and become one step closer to fulfilling my college career dreams. I am so hopeful for what this year is going to bring to my life and I welcoming 2013 with open arms. 

Blessings to you all & wishing you all the best year possible!