I have always been AWFUL at saying "No!" to anyone and everything. People pleaser, yes I am.
I admit it. It's a struggle. And, more than ever it is coming out while teaching. You know how much I want those precious ones to "like" me? Oh, more than ever. I feel like I have to prove myself to them. I want them to love me. I want to be known as the best student teacher ever. In doing this, I feel like I have to be the nicest teacher ever. That's hard. Very hard.
In ALL my classes, the ONE thing that I know they have drilled into my mind is that first year teachers struggle most with classroom management. I could not agree more. We want their approval, so therefore, we are nice, in return having them walk all over us. Not good.
So, before I ever have my own classroom, I want to practice classroom management. Now, this is easy right now since my teacher has GOT IT. One of the best, by far. The children are trained, in routine, leaving the classroom climate very nice.
But, I am learning to put my foot down once and for all. In the past week I have pretty much taken over all the class responsibilities. I am stepping up to my title of "student teacher!" I do love it. So fun. I love that the day goes by so much quicker when I'm actually the teacher. But, the kiddos are starting to test me. Oh boy, it's fun. They want to know where I stand, and I'm gonna show them. I am in charge. Yes, ma'am I am. And they need to know that.
Since there are 2 of us in there at all times, sometimes I feel like a mom/dad couple. Do you remember when you were little and you would ask your mom something and she would say no, so you asked your dad. Dad might say yes because he doesn't know mom already said no. The child is sneaky. I did it. We all did it. What I love is that we thought we could get away with it. Oh, how naive we were.
Well today, this little boy (who is limited in his bathroom excursions because he goes WAY TOO MUCH, and no, it's not medical, he just plays) asked me to get a drink of water. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about letting kids get water when they need it. But, he's pulled this before. He had already used all his chances and just wanted to roam around. I told him NO. Go me. I felt a little mean, not gonna lie, but quickly got over it. At this point, I was the only teacher in the room. But, the minute my mentor walked in, he, without my knowing, asked her if he could get a drink. She complied and he went his merry way. I told her that I had said no. We both chuckled because he played us. And this wasn't the first time. Of course she said that if she would have known he already asked me, that she would have said no.
Even though I thought he might hate me forever for telling him no, I soon realized no, he doesn't hate me. Especially when he started scratching my back. They bounce back...so quickly.
I also learned to not give a child one chance. If I give he/she one chance, they will likely do it again, I'll give them ANOTHER chance, they'll do it again, and then I have to make them move a clip. (Behavior system talk.) There are no chances right now, they move a clip first time I speak to them. Wow. I am sounding so mean. But really? They love me just the same. Clip moved. No water. No bathroom. I know this to be true as I received a drawing today of some horses (why horses, I don't know!) that said "I love you!" I am loved. Mean or not. Thank you, Jesus.
And no worries, I am still praying about the people pleasing ordeal. It's OK to say no. It's healthy to say no. I am coming to grips with that. I know the only person I should be longing to please is my precious Jesus! And I so long to do that...
People pleaser signing off...(off to do the Breaking Free homework. I may get a kick in the butt!)
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Did You Know...
That I had a very busy weekend?! Oh, I did. No complaining here, though, I got to see some of my favorite people.
Friday I didn't do much except go to school (duh!), made a VERY productive trip to Target, and lastly, ate some marvelous Mexican food. Seriously, I am so sorry if you don't live in Texas. Tex Mex is undeniably good. (And I'm a sucker for HOUSTON Tex Mex.)
Saturday, I slept in (as long as my body allowed!), then after showering, a trip to Ace Hardware (YES, I went to Ace Hardware!), and a trip to the beloved Willowbrook Mall, I spent the remainder of the afternoon with Jen, Jaclyn, and sweet Grace. We were highly entertained as the boys were trying to pull a car out of the mud. They succeeded, and all was well in man world. By the way, have I introduced you to precious Grace Parker?! She is the most precious thing on this side of Houston. If you don't know her, you should get to know her by going here. She and her precious mom would be delighted to meet you! To give you a glimpse of what your missing, I posted an adorable picture of her below. Now you can't resist, can you! (Jaclyn, hope you don't mind that I stole this picture! I needed one!)
After a fun filled afternoon at my besties house, I was FINALLY able to get out of the driveway. (I was stuck due to 3 cars parked behind me!) I was headed to Emily's Bachelorette Party/Lingerie Shower! Emily is the beloved bride-to-be. In 3 weeks she'll be making a trip down the aisle and my heart is just ecstatic for her. She is BEAUTIFUL and I know she will be a stunning bride.
After a glorious night of fun, laughter, and some more tex mex, this blogger was pooped. Claire and I had a slumber party of our own. Y'all, what is it with girls?! We were EXHAUSTED after arriving home by 1 a.m. and I'm pretty sure we were up until at least 2:30 a.m. talking. Can I say crazy?! Needless to say I will sleep VERY good tonight. The thought of me even laying my head down on my pillow makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. I love sleeping.
After heading to bed at an ungodly hour, I woke up, went to church, then headed once again to the besties house for a church ladies shower for Emily. Fun times. She received many wonderful things, my favorite probably being the sandwich/panini maker. Do y'all know my love for panini's? Because it is great. I could eat one for every meal. Since Jen was in town, I stayed at the shower for quite some time. Even though I was so stinkin' tired, I don't know when I'll see Jen again, so any time I could get this weekend with her, I took great advantage of. I miss her so. (Of course, along with my other worldwide besties Joanna and Sally!) How many times can I say that I MISS MY GIRLS!
Upon leaving I headed to Target once again to get some shoes that I have been eyeing. They are some flat pointy shoes. And as a "teacher" you know I have come to LOVE me some good flat shoes. I actually ended up buying 2 pairs, but I know they will not go to waste!
And now, all I can think about is my sweet bed, that I am so very thankful for, and the Teacher Work Sample that is constantly on my mind. The TWS is a "paper" that we, as student teachers, have to do in our first placement. I wish I could say it is just a "paper" though. It's more like a thesis. The more and more I think about it, the more I convince myself that in doing this, we should receive our Masters degree, along with our Bachelors degree. But, it ain't happenin', so I've just gotta do it. Seriously, though, if you think of me, would you pray for that? It seriously makes me all kinds of stressed and anxious. It's due February 25th, so until then I may be a little absent from blog world. I really need to focus. (If you REALLY want to know more about it, just google it!) ;)
Well, folks, I hope you had a fabulous weekend. I just finished up my Starbucks (White Chocolate Mocha with peppermint) and am so ready to wash my face, do my Breaking Free homework, and head to bed.
Have a wonderful week. Be filled with HIM! He loves you so...
Friday I didn't do much except go to school (duh!), made a VERY productive trip to Target, and lastly, ate some marvelous Mexican food. Seriously, I am so sorry if you don't live in Texas. Tex Mex is undeniably good. (And I'm a sucker for HOUSTON Tex Mex.)
Saturday, I slept in (as long as my body allowed!), then after showering, a trip to Ace Hardware (YES, I went to Ace Hardware!), and a trip to the beloved Willowbrook Mall, I spent the remainder of the afternoon with Jen, Jaclyn, and sweet Grace. We were highly entertained as the boys were trying to pull a car out of the mud. They succeeded, and all was well in man world. By the way, have I introduced you to precious Grace Parker?! She is the most precious thing on this side of Houston. If you don't know her, you should get to know her by going here. She and her precious mom would be delighted to meet you! To give you a glimpse of what your missing, I posted an adorable picture of her below. Now you can't resist, can you! (Jaclyn, hope you don't mind that I stole this picture! I needed one!)
After a fun filled afternoon at my besties house, I was FINALLY able to get out of the driveway. (I was stuck due to 3 cars parked behind me!) I was headed to Emily's Bachelorette Party/Lingerie Shower! Emily is the beloved bride-to-be. In 3 weeks she'll be making a trip down the aisle and my heart is just ecstatic for her. She is BEAUTIFUL and I know she will be a stunning bride.
After a glorious night of fun, laughter, and some more tex mex, this blogger was pooped. Claire and I had a slumber party of our own. Y'all, what is it with girls?! We were EXHAUSTED after arriving home by 1 a.m. and I'm pretty sure we were up until at least 2:30 a.m. talking. Can I say crazy?! Needless to say I will sleep VERY good tonight. The thought of me even laying my head down on my pillow makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. I love sleeping.
After heading to bed at an ungodly hour, I woke up, went to church, then headed once again to the besties house for a church ladies shower for Emily. Fun times. She received many wonderful things, my favorite probably being the sandwich/panini maker. Do y'all know my love for panini's? Because it is great. I could eat one for every meal. Since Jen was in town, I stayed at the shower for quite some time. Even though I was so stinkin' tired, I don't know when I'll see Jen again, so any time I could get this weekend with her, I took great advantage of. I miss her so. (Of course, along with my other worldwide besties Joanna and Sally!) How many times can I say that I MISS MY GIRLS!
Upon leaving I headed to Target once again to get some shoes that I have been eyeing. They are some flat pointy shoes. And as a "teacher" you know I have come to LOVE me some good flat shoes. I actually ended up buying 2 pairs, but I know they will not go to waste!
And now, all I can think about is my sweet bed, that I am so very thankful for, and the Teacher Work Sample that is constantly on my mind. The TWS is a "paper" that we, as student teachers, have to do in our first placement. I wish I could say it is just a "paper" though. It's more like a thesis. The more and more I think about it, the more I convince myself that in doing this, we should receive our Masters degree, along with our Bachelors degree. But, it ain't happenin', so I've just gotta do it. Seriously, though, if you think of me, would you pray for that? It seriously makes me all kinds of stressed and anxious. It's due February 25th, so until then I may be a little absent from blog world. I really need to focus. (If you REALLY want to know more about it, just google it!) ;)
Well, folks, I hope you had a fabulous weekend. I just finished up my Starbucks (White Chocolate Mocha with peppermint) and am so ready to wash my face, do my Breaking Free homework, and head to bed.
Have a wonderful week. Be filled with HIM! He loves you so...
Monday, January 21, 2008
Officially A Houstonian
Well...not that I haven't ALWAYS been one, but as of Sunday I am back in Houston for good. (Meaning my apartment is finally all moved out of...after many trips!) I felt like the Friends finale yesterday when my roommate and I were leaving our keys on the bar counter. Weird. I mean, we didn't stand there holding each other crying, but to be standing in an EMPTY apartment that has made some great memories is a different feeling!
The prior weekend, upon leaving Huntsville, a few friends of mine came to see me and we spent most of the day touring Huntsville. For them it was their "firsts", for me it was my "last!" I had no greater joy than showing them the great city! It was fun, we had tons of laughs, toured everything historical, went to the basketball game and the boys even won some Harlem Globetrotter tickets!!! What could be better?! It was a wonderful ending.
The last night we spent in our apartment was just the greatest, though. It was the cherry on top! Since we didn't have any furniture in the living room, we decided to have a sleepover!! We invited a few friends over (which consisted of Hannah), pulled our mattresses out into the living room and absolutely acted like we had WAY too much to drink all night. (Disclaimer: we had NOTHING to drink! We were just plain silly!) It was nothing short of a blast. And, I had never slept in the living room before, let alone on my mattress in the living room. I highly recommend it if you are searching for some F.U.N. There ain't nothin' like a good ole' girly sleepover!
I'm not gonna blame it on the sleepover, but I was EXHAUSTED on Tuesday. I don't think I stopped. From taking a test at 8:00 that morning, coming home and packing up more, then finally leaving for Houston, driving in the rain, then getting home just in time for bible study...I could barely keep my eyes open. I was ever so glad to put my head on that pillow!
Of course you all know that I started student teaching last Wednesday, which has been great! But that sure kept me busy and was the reason for heading to bed MUCH earlier than I am used to.
This weekend was the grand "move out of my apartment weekend!" I always dread moving. It is seriously a HUGE hassle. And really, WHERE DID HALF OF THIS STUFF COME FROM??!! I mean, it was load, after load, after load. Thankfully, my parents and older brother are wonderful and helped me move. Such a blessing. After we loaded everything possible, they headed back to Houston while I stayed the night at one of my friends house. Even though everything was gone, we still had cleaning to do. So, Sunday morning I woke up, met Megan at the apartment, and we FINISHED. It is a wonderful feeling. On our way out we got Whataburger and it hit the spot. I love Wataburger. I was/am so glad to be home and done. I fell FAST asleep for a wonderful Sunday (late) afternoon nap. It's been a while since one of those. I have forgotten the joy of it!
Sunday night was calm for me. The house was empty (everyone at their own bible study) so I headed to Taco Cabana for some tortillas and cheese, came back, got comfy, ate my dinner, watched Princess Diaries on the Disney Channel and finished some plate orders! Productive?! I think so.
Today, on this grand MLK day that we have had OFF, I have gotten many "little" things on my to-do list checked off. What a relief that is. I think I am now ready to tackle the week and make it a good one!
Well folks, thanks for listening to my ramblings. I know my posts have been so random lately, I guess it's just a refection of my ever so random/crazy life right now! I do hope it slows down soon! I know it will and until then, y'all have to enjoy this randomness! So sorry!
Much love to all of you! I hope your week is marvelous! Hey, we had Monday off! What could be better?! :)
The prior weekend, upon leaving Huntsville, a few friends of mine came to see me and we spent most of the day touring Huntsville. For them it was their "firsts", for me it was my "last!" I had no greater joy than showing them the great city! It was fun, we had tons of laughs, toured everything historical, went to the basketball game and the boys even won some Harlem Globetrotter tickets!!! What could be better?! It was a wonderful ending.
The last night we spent in our apartment was just the greatest, though. It was the cherry on top! Since we didn't have any furniture in the living room, we decided to have a sleepover!! We invited a few friends over (which consisted of Hannah), pulled our mattresses out into the living room and absolutely acted like we had WAY too much to drink all night. (Disclaimer: we had NOTHING to drink! We were just plain silly!) It was nothing short of a blast. And, I had never slept in the living room before, let alone on my mattress in the living room. I highly recommend it if you are searching for some F.U.N. There ain't nothin' like a good ole' girly sleepover!
I'm not gonna blame it on the sleepover, but I was EXHAUSTED on Tuesday. I don't think I stopped. From taking a test at 8:00 that morning, coming home and packing up more, then finally leaving for Houston, driving in the rain, then getting home just in time for bible study...I could barely keep my eyes open. I was ever so glad to put my head on that pillow!
Of course you all know that I started student teaching last Wednesday, which has been great! But that sure kept me busy and was the reason for heading to bed MUCH earlier than I am used to.
This weekend was the grand "move out of my apartment weekend!" I always dread moving. It is seriously a HUGE hassle. And really, WHERE DID HALF OF THIS STUFF COME FROM??!! I mean, it was load, after load, after load. Thankfully, my parents and older brother are wonderful and helped me move. Such a blessing. After we loaded everything possible, they headed back to Houston while I stayed the night at one of my friends house. Even though everything was gone, we still had cleaning to do. So, Sunday morning I woke up, met Megan at the apartment, and we FINISHED. It is a wonderful feeling. On our way out we got Whataburger and it hit the spot. I love Wataburger. I was/am so glad to be home and done. I fell FAST asleep for a wonderful Sunday (late) afternoon nap. It's been a while since one of those. I have forgotten the joy of it!
Sunday night was calm for me. The house was empty (everyone at their own bible study) so I headed to Taco Cabana for some tortillas and cheese, came back, got comfy, ate my dinner, watched Princess Diaries on the Disney Channel and finished some plate orders! Productive?! I think so.
Today, on this grand MLK day that we have had OFF, I have gotten many "little" things on my to-do list checked off. What a relief that is. I think I am now ready to tackle the week and make it a good one!
Well folks, thanks for listening to my ramblings. I know my posts have been so random lately, I guess it's just a refection of my ever so random/crazy life right now! I do hope it slows down soon! I know it will and until then, y'all have to enjoy this randomness! So sorry!
Much love to all of you! I hope your week is marvelous! Hey, we had Monday off! What could be better?! :)
Thursday, January 17, 2008
T.G.I.F...almost!
Thank you, thank you for all of your sweet, sweet comments! When I came home from student teaching the first day I felt so absolutely loved and prayed for!
I had a GREAT first day...and second for that matter. I love that I am student teaching with my old teacher. Every teacher I meet asks if I am the one that was her student! She and I proceed to tell them yes and without fail every time they say, "I bet she wasn't that tall when you had her!" :) Yes, I am tall, and I love it.
She gave me the biggest hug when I arrived on Wednesday and was so excited that I was there. I couldn't have felt more "at home!" All the precious cherubs want to know how old I am since they learned that I too went Matzke back in the day. They think I am 100. I will let them believe that for right now because I think it's funny. They really don't have much perception of time!! CUTE!!
I am so grateful for all of you and the prayers y'all have lifted up on my behalf. They are so felt and I have had ENERGY!! Let's just pray I keep it up. I mean, I knew I would be tired...but seriously?! I am pooped. If you think of me, would you please continue pray that I would just be a joy and light to those little ones, and that I would have energy, love and patience?! So far I do love every one of them just the same. And, it's only the 2nd day!
I promise stories to all of you as they come...and boy have they already come! I can tell you one things for sure...being a teacher is never dull.
Well folks, it's 9:37 and I am finding it quite appropriate to wash my face and head to bed!
I've also gotta find my good ole' Matzke Wildcats t-shirt...tomorrow is the wonderful spirit shirt/jeans day!! WOO HOO!!! Do you think I'll still fit in one of my old ones?! ;)
Much love to all of you,
I had a GREAT first day...and second for that matter. I love that I am student teaching with my old teacher. Every teacher I meet asks if I am the one that was her student! She and I proceed to tell them yes and without fail every time they say, "I bet she wasn't that tall when you had her!" :) Yes, I am tall, and I love it.
She gave me the biggest hug when I arrived on Wednesday and was so excited that I was there. I couldn't have felt more "at home!" All the precious cherubs want to know how old I am since they learned that I too went Matzke back in the day. They think I am 100. I will let them believe that for right now because I think it's funny. They really don't have much perception of time!! CUTE!!
I am so grateful for all of you and the prayers y'all have lifted up on my behalf. They are so felt and I have had ENERGY!! Let's just pray I keep it up. I mean, I knew I would be tired...but seriously?! I am pooped. If you think of me, would you please continue pray that I would just be a joy and light to those little ones, and that I would have energy, love and patience?! So far I do love every one of them just the same. And, it's only the 2nd day!
I promise stories to all of you as they come...and boy have they already come! I can tell you one things for sure...being a teacher is never dull.
Well folks, it's 9:37 and I am finding it quite appropriate to wash my face and head to bed!
I've also gotta find my good ole' Matzke Wildcats t-shirt...tomorrow is the wonderful spirit shirt/jeans day!! WOO HOO!!! Do you think I'll still fit in one of my old ones?! ;)
Much love to all of you,
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Here Goes Nothin'
Well, folks! I had a whole post all written out...but this will have to suffice right now!
I feel like I have been running around like a chicken with my head cut off today...it's been a non-stop kinda day! I am absolutely exhausted.
But, I wanted to stop in and just ask for a quick prayer request, if I can, for my student teaching! Tomorrow is my first day and I am so very excited, nervous, anxious...you know all the emotions that come with first day jitters!
Just pray that the Lord would give me patience, love, rest and ENERGY!!!! :) I do want to be a light to those little ones. Because...they are precious in His sight!
I most definitely covet all of your prayers and am thankful to the Lord for you! I know this will be an exciting journey and I can't wait to share it with all of you...
Off to get some shut eye before a very early morning!!
Much love,
I feel like I have been running around like a chicken with my head cut off today...it's been a non-stop kinda day! I am absolutely exhausted.
But, I wanted to stop in and just ask for a quick prayer request, if I can, for my student teaching! Tomorrow is my first day and I am so very excited, nervous, anxious...you know all the emotions that come with first day jitters!
Just pray that the Lord would give me patience, love, rest and ENERGY!!!! :) I do want to be a light to those little ones. Because...they are precious in His sight!
I most definitely covet all of your prayers and am thankful to the Lord for you! I know this will be an exciting journey and I can't wait to share it with all of you...
Off to get some shut eye before a very early morning!!
Much love,
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Randomness At It's Best
Hello friends. I come to you, once again, from the sweet land of Huntsvegas! (A.K.A. Huntsville!)
I am back this week and part of next for student teaching orientation. Is it bad that only after the second day my LONG legs already hurt from sitting SOOOOO much?!?!! I love it. Yesterday was long, very long. We had orientation from 8 - 4. It wouldn't be that bad, but y'all, we sit and listen, sit and listen, and if we haven't sat long enough, we sit a little more and listen a little more. The worst part is when my eyelids get so heavy I can barely keep them open. I hate that feeling, but it has happened sooo much in the past 2 days.
Thankfully, today started our VERY FAST class. I've never had a real class last only one week. It's a nice feeling that in one week I will have no more undergrad classes the rest of my life. Oh, the sweet joy that wells in my heart! And, it's only from 8 - 12 noon. Not bad.
So, I'm here, enjoying the last of my apartment and packing it up. It's kind of weird, but I know that student teaching at home will be the best thing and I am thrilled to have the privilege to be back at my old school. I'm sure I'll have plenty of stories for you folks.
So, I told you this would be random, so here it is:
1) I just bought Celene Dion's "Taking Chances" off iTunes. I love that song.
2) I went to the grocery store last night and bought the most random things for this week. It's so hard to buy grocery's for only one week. Knowing you will need them, but knowing you'll only be here one week.
3) I had to buy 3 books for my one week class. Ridiculous.
4) I have a bag of M&M's and chocolate that is sitting next to me. My self-control was thrown out the window. Chocolate is amazing.
5) It is SO flippen' humid outside. Where did winter go?! Oh yeah, it's supposed to be 66 degrees tomorrow. We love winter in Houston.
6) Tonight One Tree Hill comes on. It's all new and is now taking place "5 years later!" Is it bad that I love that show?!
7) Tonight, my heart is sad, because even though I now officially live in Houston. I still have to miss bible study...the first night of Breaking Free tonight. My heart is undeniably sad. It's everything in me not to drive down there and drive right back. I will refrain, though. The weather here isn't too pretty.
8) Going with #7, more than anything this semester, I am excited about Breaking Free. It is one of the many studies I have not yet done. After 3 1/2 years of no Beth, I am excited to begin the journey again. And what a journey it will be! I absolutely CANNOT wait to see what the Lord has in store for me through this study. I know it is nothing less than amazing! And on top of that, I get to meet some siestas! Oh, the happiness it brings me. I love me some Houston girls.
With all of that said, since it's raining outside, I think I may go lay my sweet little head down. Naps are a wonderful, wonderful thing. Amen?! :)
Love to all of you!
P.S. Oh, and I forgot to tell you thank you to all of you that have ordered some plates. It excites me to be able to make them for y'all! So far the mini-business is a joy.
I am back this week and part of next for student teaching orientation. Is it bad that only after the second day my LONG legs already hurt from sitting SOOOOO much?!?!! I love it. Yesterday was long, very long. We had orientation from 8 - 4. It wouldn't be that bad, but y'all, we sit and listen, sit and listen, and if we haven't sat long enough, we sit a little more and listen a little more. The worst part is when my eyelids get so heavy I can barely keep them open. I hate that feeling, but it has happened sooo much in the past 2 days.
Thankfully, today started our VERY FAST class. I've never had a real class last only one week. It's a nice feeling that in one week I will have no more undergrad classes the rest of my life. Oh, the sweet joy that wells in my heart! And, it's only from 8 - 12 noon. Not bad.
So, I'm here, enjoying the last of my apartment and packing it up. It's kind of weird, but I know that student teaching at home will be the best thing and I am thrilled to have the privilege to be back at my old school. I'm sure I'll have plenty of stories for you folks.
So, I told you this would be random, so here it is:
1) I just bought Celene Dion's "Taking Chances" off iTunes. I love that song.
2) I went to the grocery store last night and bought the most random things for this week. It's so hard to buy grocery's for only one week. Knowing you will need them, but knowing you'll only be here one week.
3) I had to buy 3 books for my one week class. Ridiculous.
4) I have a bag of M&M's and chocolate that is sitting next to me. My self-control was thrown out the window. Chocolate is amazing.
5) It is SO flippen' humid outside. Where did winter go?! Oh yeah, it's supposed to be 66 degrees tomorrow. We love winter in Houston.
6) Tonight One Tree Hill comes on. It's all new and is now taking place "5 years later!" Is it bad that I love that show?!
7) Tonight, my heart is sad, because even though I now officially live in Houston. I still have to miss bible study...the first night of Breaking Free tonight. My heart is undeniably sad. It's everything in me not to drive down there and drive right back. I will refrain, though. The weather here isn't too pretty.
8) Going with #7, more than anything this semester, I am excited about Breaking Free. It is one of the many studies I have not yet done. After 3 1/2 years of no Beth, I am excited to begin the journey again. And what a journey it will be! I absolutely CANNOT wait to see what the Lord has in store for me through this study. I know it is nothing less than amazing! And on top of that, I get to meet some siestas! Oh, the happiness it brings me. I love me some Houston girls.
With all of that said, since it's raining outside, I think I may go lay my sweet little head down. Naps are a wonderful, wonderful thing. Amen?! :)
Love to all of you!
P.S. Oh, and I forgot to tell you thank you to all of you that have ordered some plates. It excites me to be able to make them for y'all! So far the mini-business is a joy.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
My Accident
A year ago today I was driving home from a splendid lunch with one of my good friends from school. She works and lives in the Woodlands, so instead of us meeting somewhere, I drove out there to eat with her. After lunch, she ended up taking off work and we hung out a little longer. It was a fun day...until my drive home!
That night we had a party to go to so I figured I should be getting going around 3:30ish or so. This way, since I was gonna be driving on I-45 and the Beltway, I would miss traffic and get home in time to be ready for the shin dig. (And, I was in my Mom's car, so I had to be home so we could all go in that!)
I was about 2 miles away from the EZ Tag (if you don't have one, you should really invest!) and really the roads were pretty clear. About 100 feet in front of me, to the left, one lane over, was an over sized truck. It wasn't quite an eighteen wheeler, but bigger than your average size truck. I guess it looked more like the size of a trash pick up truck, but really, that is beside the point. It had a tall brown fence around the cab and it was carrying tons of plywood. Normally, I would rather not be behind these things because they kind of freak me out, but I didn't think anything of it.
All of the sudden out of the corner of my eye I saw 2 huge pieces of plywood just whirling around in the air. My first thought was "oh no, oh no, oh no...these are not flying towards me!" Then, literally, in about 2 seconds I knew there was nothing I could do, so I braced the steering wheel and shut my eyes. (You have to remember that I am still going about 65 mph!) I felt the initial hit and then opened my eyes to see that I was completely stopped, on the freeway (I guess I took my foot of the pedal), could not see a thing, was covered in glass, and without even looking, crossed about 3 lanes to pull over to the side of the road. (Stupid, I know...but I was in shock!)
All I could think was "My mom is gonna be so mad at me, I just wrecked her car!" I know that really, that was so far from the truth, there was nothing I could do. So, I called my Mom. I wasn't crying or anything but was so still in shock that I could barely tell her what happened. In the meantime, while talking to her, one of the pieces of plywood (because remember there was 2 pieces) was still laying on my hood and every time someone drove by, it would teeter. I just knew that it was going to fly off my car, hit someone else, and then a whole train wreck would happen.
My mom thankfully has On star, so she told me to call them. I did and was so grateful. They knew exactly where I was (to the tee) and told me they would get someone out there asap. The lady even told me she would stay on the line with me if I wanted. I was okay though, because I was still talking to my mom.
Once I hung up with the lady I think the tears finally came. I was in the car, covered in glass, scared the wood was gonna fly off my car, and just waiting for ANYONE to stop and help me. No one bothered. Not even the man whose wood hit me, he had absolutely NO idea anything happened. I remembered I had my camera with me, so I decided to take pictures to give me something to do.
Finally, a police man showed up, called for more back up and was able to help me. I explained to him everything that happened. He got me out of the car, brushed all the glass of me with a special glove and then waited with me for my mom to get there. During that time 2 more cops showed up and also questioned me.
The lady cop proceeded to tell me that it was my lucky day. She told me that really the wood should have come completely through my window and hit me, then initially killing me. The other cops agreed. I stood there in sheer amazement. They couldn't figure out why it didn't go all the way through the window.
People asked me if I told them (the police) it was because the Lord truly had his hand over me and his angels were all over me. My answer to that is no. I was so stunned I didn't say one word. I do know this to be true though. The Lord did have his hand all over this and protected me in greater ways than I can imagine. For that I am so grateful. I look back and think about how much worse this could have been. But it wasn't. I walked away from the wreck with a few scratches, some glass in my hair and that is all. I also walked away with a greater understanding of the Lord we serve. It's the little things. I was supposed to drive my car, but my Mom wanted me to take hers. (I drive a little car, her is big!) I didn't have my sun glasses, but my Moms old ones were in the car, so literally, right before everything happened I put them on. He even cared about the little things.
He IS far greater than all of our circumstances. Praise Him!
That night we had a party to go to so I figured I should be getting going around 3:30ish or so. This way, since I was gonna be driving on I-45 and the Beltway, I would miss traffic and get home in time to be ready for the shin dig. (And, I was in my Mom's car, so I had to be home so we could all go in that!)
I was about 2 miles away from the EZ Tag (if you don't have one, you should really invest!) and really the roads were pretty clear. About 100 feet in front of me, to the left, one lane over, was an over sized truck. It wasn't quite an eighteen wheeler, but bigger than your average size truck. I guess it looked more like the size of a trash pick up truck, but really, that is beside the point. It had a tall brown fence around the cab and it was carrying tons of plywood. Normally, I would rather not be behind these things because they kind of freak me out, but I didn't think anything of it.
All of the sudden out of the corner of my eye I saw 2 huge pieces of plywood just whirling around in the air. My first thought was "oh no, oh no, oh no...these are not flying towards me!" Then, literally, in about 2 seconds I knew there was nothing I could do, so I braced the steering wheel and shut my eyes. (You have to remember that I am still going about 65 mph!) I felt the initial hit and then opened my eyes to see that I was completely stopped, on the freeway (I guess I took my foot of the pedal), could not see a thing, was covered in glass, and without even looking, crossed about 3 lanes to pull over to the side of the road. (Stupid, I know...but I was in shock!)
All I could think was "My mom is gonna be so mad at me, I just wrecked her car!" I know that really, that was so far from the truth, there was nothing I could do. So, I called my Mom. I wasn't crying or anything but was so still in shock that I could barely tell her what happened. In the meantime, while talking to her, one of the pieces of plywood (because remember there was 2 pieces) was still laying on my hood and every time someone drove by, it would teeter. I just knew that it was going to fly off my car, hit someone else, and then a whole train wreck would happen.
My mom thankfully has On star, so she told me to call them. I did and was so grateful. They knew exactly where I was (to the tee) and told me they would get someone out there asap. The lady even told me she would stay on the line with me if I wanted. I was okay though, because I was still talking to my mom.
Once I hung up with the lady I think the tears finally came. I was in the car, covered in glass, scared the wood was gonna fly off my car, and just waiting for ANYONE to stop and help me. No one bothered. Not even the man whose wood hit me, he had absolutely NO idea anything happened. I remembered I had my camera with me, so I decided to take pictures to give me something to do.
Finally, a police man showed up, called for more back up and was able to help me. I explained to him everything that happened. He got me out of the car, brushed all the glass of me with a special glove and then waited with me for my mom to get there. During that time 2 more cops showed up and also questioned me.
The lady cop proceeded to tell me that it was my lucky day. She told me that really the wood should have come completely through my window and hit me, then initially killing me. The other cops agreed. I stood there in sheer amazement. They couldn't figure out why it didn't go all the way through the window.
People asked me if I told them (the police) it was because the Lord truly had his hand over me and his angels were all over me. My answer to that is no. I was so stunned I didn't say one word. I do know this to be true though. The Lord did have his hand all over this and protected me in greater ways than I can imagine. For that I am so grateful. I look back and think about how much worse this could have been. But it wasn't. I walked away from the wreck with a few scratches, some glass in my hair and that is all. I also walked away with a greater understanding of the Lord we serve. It's the little things. I was supposed to drive my car, but my Mom wanted me to take hers. (I drive a little car, her is big!) I didn't have my sun glasses, but my Moms old ones were in the car, so literally, right before everything happened I put them on. He even cared about the little things.
He IS far greater than all of our circumstances. Praise Him!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Lindsee's Custom Made Plates
*Update: Compliments of Joanna for sending me some more pictures of the plate on the stand!! Thank you so very much, sweet friend! Love you! (Scroll down to see them!)
So, I am going to try something I have never done. I don't know if it's stupid, a good idea, or what not. But, I'm gonna give it a shot and see what kind of response I get!
This Christmas I made plates for my friends and family as their Christmas gifts. I liked them myself, but wasn't sure if everyone else would like them as much as I did. Well, they all seemed to enjoy their custom made plate thoroughly, and I enjoyed making them quite thoroughly. (My aunt even cried when I gave hers to her!) I have a few more I am making for some of my best friends moms and sister (who so discretely told me they wanted one!) and then I'm done as far as the gifts go. ;)
As a student teacher, I will have NO income, oh, the joy! So, my Dad came up with the grand idea that I sell some of the custom made plates on my blog. I didn't think it was a half bad idea (but feel kind of silly doing so) but thought I would give it a try.
So, here I am, starting a mini-business of Lindsee's Custom Made Plates!
The plate is a charger and I will write anything on it for you.
The chargers come in:
Gold - with black writing
Crushed Gold - with black writing
Red - with silver or gold writing
Silver - with black writing
Black - with silver or gold writing
The cost is $10.00 (plus shipping & handling) for just the plate, or
$20.00 (plus shipping and handling) for the plate and the holder.
They are good as center pieces, birthday gifts, wedding gifts, or whatever your little heart desires.
I only have one picture as an example. I don't have any pictures of the holder but will try and get one asap. (Hint hint Jen or Jo!) It's just a black wrought iron holder with swirly things. Very pretty!
You are free to put anything you want on the charger. For the gifts I did "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15 with an icthus below it and that turned out pretty good. The only thing is it can't be a very long quote or verse. I have found that 1 - 15 words works the best. (But don't get anxious about that, we can always work something out!)
Well folks, there it is, Lindsee's Custom Made Plate! If you are interested either leave a comment with your email address and what you want, or, feel free to email me here and I will be happy to work with you! (If the email address doesn't work, just leave a comment and I will get with you!)
The example below is a crushed gold plate, with black writing! (But remember yours is custom, so don't forget to choose from your many options up above!)
So, I am going to try something I have never done. I don't know if it's stupid, a good idea, or what not. But, I'm gonna give it a shot and see what kind of response I get!
This Christmas I made plates for my friends and family as their Christmas gifts. I liked them myself, but wasn't sure if everyone else would like them as much as I did. Well, they all seemed to enjoy their custom made plate thoroughly, and I enjoyed making them quite thoroughly. (My aunt even cried when I gave hers to her!) I have a few more I am making for some of my best friends moms and sister (who so discretely told me they wanted one!) and then I'm done as far as the gifts go. ;)
As a student teacher, I will have NO income, oh, the joy! So, my Dad came up with the grand idea that I sell some of the custom made plates on my blog. I didn't think it was a half bad idea (but feel kind of silly doing so) but thought I would give it a try.
So, here I am, starting a mini-business of Lindsee's Custom Made Plates!
The plate is a charger and I will write anything on it for you.
The chargers come in:
Gold - with black writing
Crushed Gold - with black writing
Red - with silver or gold writing
Silver - with black writing
Black - with silver or gold writing
The cost is $10.00 (plus shipping & handling) for just the plate, or
$20.00 (plus shipping and handling) for the plate and the holder.
They are good as center pieces, birthday gifts, wedding gifts, or whatever your little heart desires.
I only have one picture as an example. I don't have any pictures of the holder but will try and get one asap. (Hint hint Jen or Jo!) It's just a black wrought iron holder with swirly things. Very pretty!
You are free to put anything you want on the charger. For the gifts I did "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15 with an icthus below it and that turned out pretty good. The only thing is it can't be a very long quote or verse. I have found that 1 - 15 words works the best. (But don't get anxious about that, we can always work something out!)
Well folks, there it is, Lindsee's Custom Made Plate! If you are interested either leave a comment with your email address and what you want, or, feel free to email me here and I will be happy to work with you! (If the email address doesn't work, just leave a comment and I will get with you!)
The example below is a crushed gold plate, with black writing! (But remember yours is custom, so don't forget to choose from your many options up above!)
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
I Spent New Years in a Grocery Store...
Okay, well not quite. But we sure cut it close, folks!!
Actually, a wonderful time was had by all last night. I met up with some lambs (phi lambs that is) that also live in Houston and we enjoyed a fun dinner at Pappasitos and a little slumber party at one of our friends apartments. It was fabulous. (Really, anything was better than last year. I spent it in bed, upset, and sick with a stomach bug. Not fun. I fell asleep before midnight and woke up a few hours later to turn off my lamp. Happy New Year to me!)
After dinner, we realized we didn't have any snacks or drinks to munch on back at the apartment, so we dropped our cars off at 11:18, headed to HEB, got some goodies, and left the store at 11:38. We ended up having about 9 minutes in the apartment before midnight. Hence why I said we cut it close! We then, for the next 10 minutes, proceeded to take pictures, put on a movie and fall asleep. We've become old ladies!
It was absolutely a joyous time and it is now 2008!!! Oh, the joy!!! Where did 2007 go? I know they say the years go by quicker as you get older, and they ain't lyin'! It absolutely flew by!!
So, here's to a new year. A new start. A refreshing relationship with Jesus. A closer walk with Him. New friendships. The next stage of life and MANY other things. Happy New Year, 2008, everyone!!! Much love and many HUGS to all!!!
Actually, a wonderful time was had by all last night. I met up with some lambs (phi lambs that is) that also live in Houston and we enjoyed a fun dinner at Pappasitos and a little slumber party at one of our friends apartments. It was fabulous. (Really, anything was better than last year. I spent it in bed, upset, and sick with a stomach bug. Not fun. I fell asleep before midnight and woke up a few hours later to turn off my lamp. Happy New Year to me!)
After dinner, we realized we didn't have any snacks or drinks to munch on back at the apartment, so we dropped our cars off at 11:18, headed to HEB, got some goodies, and left the store at 11:38. We ended up having about 9 minutes in the apartment before midnight. Hence why I said we cut it close! We then, for the next 10 minutes, proceeded to take pictures, put on a movie and fall asleep. We've become old ladies!
It was absolutely a joyous time and it is now 2008!!! Oh, the joy!!! Where did 2007 go? I know they say the years go by quicker as you get older, and they ain't lyin'! It absolutely flew by!!
So, here's to a new year. A new start. A refreshing relationship with Jesus. A closer walk with Him. New friendships. The next stage of life and MANY other things. Happy New Year, 2008, everyone!!! Much love and many HUGS to all!!!
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