Term 7, 2014, Excursion, Lilly, and Lice

Tonight I want to share more about Term 7. I seriously miss camp just sitting here while the camp staffers and CIA's are currently at family time. I LOVE family time. HOWEVER, God has me here, so I want to write about a few things that happened last week. *grin*

First thing I want to share about is Excursion. Once again, our cabin wasn't fired up about the whole idea of staying outdoors all afternoon, spending the night outside, and eating breakfast out at the camp site. I wasn't thrilled that we were chosen to do it, but honestly didn't dread it like I did during Term 5. I did pray the night before for rain just because so many girls didn't want to go, but I was pleasantly surprised at how well they did.

We went out after breakfast, and it was HUMID. I will admit, I wasn't feeling it, but I was determined not to be the downer to the day. *grin* I had forgotten how much I have to concentrate to walk out there because it is the terrain is REALLY uneven. We got to our camp site, and we each put on bug spray. *grin* In so many ways I feel like I'm truly their Mom out there! *grin* One of our staffers had to leave, so we went to the boys side of camp. I was SO PROUD of our girls. No one complained, and they jumped in and did what was needed even though they didn't want to be there. They put their camper's needs above their own. It was AMAZINGLY cool. After lunch, we headed back to the girl's side of camp, and then the wind picked up. Next thing I know, staff was there telling us to come in because it was about to storm. I was quietly thankful. As everyone started walking, I told them to go ahead because I was so slow. Next thing I knew, I was on the ground. (I fell less during Term 7 than any of the Terms I served at.) I got back up, and said a short prayer in my head, and started walking. Within seconds, I heard a golf cart, and was offered a ride. I debated, knowing everyone else was walking, but I took the ride as a gift from God. I got in just before it rained. *grin* I prayed that we wouldn't go back out, and He answered that prayer. When I caught up with my cabin later, they hadn't gone back out, and they had canceled it. I was silently happy! *grin* He is SO good, but I was still REALLY proud of our girls. I let them know that that night at family time. *grin*

Another story I want to share is about Lilly. Lilly has been a favorite of mine for years. She wasn't in my cabin this year, she was in G1. So, after dinner the first night, I followed Lilly into her cabin to make her smile and say Hi. Lilly wanted NOTHING to do with me. I didn't push, I just left. I shared that night at family time that that was the low point of the day. Lilly has become special to me.

The next day we were at the pool during O.A.T.S., and Lilly came over to me while I was sitting at the edge of the pool with my feet dipping in the water. I wasn't sure if she would talk to me, and I was pleasantly surprised that she did! Before I knew it, I was underwater at Lilly's request! We laughed tons and it was the highlight of my day that day! After that, she had her CIA went off to do other things, and that was fine. I was blessed and happy that Lilly came over to me! *grin*

Finally, the BIG news of the week.

A first for me.

LICE.

I was told during our first activity (pool) that one gal in our cabin had it, and they had checked everyone else in our cabin, but none had it. I was happy to hear that, and thought that was the end of it.

Well, after FOB, I thought my cabin was in a conference room. I went there and they were not there.
So I went outside and debated about where to go. I really had no idea where they were. I decided to walk to the Silver Lining, because I know we were only going to have a few kids swimming for O.A.T.S. On my way, a nurse came by on the gator and offered me a ride. We went to the Silver Lining, and their shoes weren't outside. (You must take off shoes to enter the Silver Lining.) She said that there was an entire cabin of girls in the Wellhouse getting their heads checked for lice. I stopped and said, "that's probably mine."

Truthfully, I wanted to be wrong. I really did.

But, I wasn't.

Sure enough, they were in the process of checking heads. Anna and Ronni were still waiting. As it turned out, they were both fine. Truthfully, when they first went to check Ronni, I heard her say, "Shanna" and she held out a hand. I held her hand as they checked her head, and she did great. She was fine, Anna was fine, and I was fine.

I waited around, wanting to hear how I could help, and it turned out 5 of our CIA's had it. That left two CIA'S, me, and one core team member to take care of all of our campers while the other girls received the treatment. It wasn't easy, but we made it.

We moved down to the dome and ate dinner before giving the campers showers (C.B.A., of course!). I really don't know how we would have done it without a core team helper. It was probably the hardest night of helping campers with showers (C.B.A.) that we've ever had. However, WE DID IT, and made it to Cross Carry!

We participated in Cross Carry and Say-So, which is an amazing night of camp. After Say-So, leadership announced that EVERYONE would be checked for lice. Long, long story short, there were four of us, and one camper, that had it when they came in around 11pm. Before I knew it, I was in the midst of treatment, blow drying hair, and combing out each other's hair. I was SO THANKFUL that I had a change of clothes in the cabin to change into (in a private area, of course) and bag up my old clothes. Around 2am I left the cabin for my bed in a room under the dining hall.

In 8 years of going out to camp, I have NEVER encountered the lice experience. *giggle*

I came home tired, sacked up laundry so that any lice-infested clothes could be secluded, and then started the laundry. It wasn't what I had planned for the afternoon and evening Friday, but it felt good to have it all done. *grin*

I've pondered it all since then, and while I'm not glad lice entered our cabin, I do appreciate the memory. I remember combing through Aubrey's hair and telling her stories. I remember the girls on the back porch having fun, and laughing. I remember having to blow-dry hair even though people were trying to sleep, but we had to do it due to the lice.

*grin*

While I do have a couple of other stories left to share, I think that's enough for tonight.

Excursion.
Lilly.
Lice.
AWESOME.

Life.
is.
Awesome!

Chris "Sacramento" Smith Sr.

Chris "Sacramento" Smith Sr.
March 19, 1957-July 19, 2014

I have pondered what to write tonight, and I believe I want to write about my friend, Chris. I will get back to Term 7 tomorrow, as I really do have more to share (and want to remember) from that. However, today I attended a service honoring Chris' life.

I met Chris a few years ago on the IHOP-KC Shuttles team. His nickname was Sacramento, and it was quite some time before I realized he went by that because he was from California. *grin* The thing about shuttles is that it takes time to get to know someone because you drive and leave. There's not a whole lot of togetherness outside of the ministry. However, I was blessed because I did get to know him a little bit.

Chris was our main shuttle leader on Sunday Mornings. He would serve from 7am until we finished after second service. He would often send me a text the night before to remind me to be on time. I was never on time, and it drove him nuts, but it sort of became a joke so it was okay. *grin*

Over the past few years, I prayed with him and for him in his health struggles. He was always open and transparent and I really liked that about him. He shared different sides of himself with me, so I saw the range of emotions with Chris. After hearing people talk today about him at his service, I sort of felt blessed that I knew him that well, because it went beyond the typical, "I'm fine" response we so often hear from people.

At the same time, as I listened to people talk about Chris, I clearly don't know about his past. Perhaps it's better that way, I don't know. I have gone back and forth about that all evening. Part of me would like to hear how God rescued him from his past into the incredible man of faith that he became. However, He clearly didn't have that for me, so I am fine with it. *grin*

I was blessed the Thursday before I left for Term 7, when he texted me and asked if I could come in and help drive for the Fascinate Conference. He NEVER did this, so I knew it was worth canceling my tutoring session I had scheduled to help out. Turns out, it was the last time I saw him and talked to him. We had fun driving together, cracking jokes, and he went to Wendy's for dinner and had a salad. I think secretly I'm hoping his last meal was something REALLY good! *grin* He said to me that I was one of his favorite people that night. The last thing he said to me was something like, "Have fun blessing those kids out at camp, and I'll see ya the following Sunday." That would have been today, but I'm okay with that. He's in Heaven dancing and partying with Jesus! *grin*

I'm going to miss him on Sundays, as we drove together regularly then. Today I missed him already. At the same time, he wouldn't want us sad, he would want us happy and to continue to share Christ with those around us.

I heard it said once that it's not the numbers representing the number of years in a person's life, it's the life in those years that matters.

Seems to me Sacremento made the most out of those years.

See ya on the other side, Sacremento. *grin*

Life.
is.
Good...especially when friends are in Heaven ahead of us! *grin*

Term 7, 2014, Buttercup....Awkward...Where is Sarah?

Every year at Camp Barnabas I look forward to Term 7 because it is full of incredible people and experiences that cannot be made any other time of the year. It's not that it's BETTER than the other Terms that I serve out at Camp Barnabas, it's just incredibly different due to the make-up of the campers. Term 7 we serve individuals age 7-15 with Down Syndrome, Autism, and Developmental Delays. This Summer I served during Terms 1 and 5 as well, but they were INCREDIBLY different than the term I just served. I can't say I have a favorite term at this point, as they are all so different, but I can say that there were some highlights that I want to share from Term 7, just as I did from Terms 1 and 5.

I absolutely LOVE how God takes a group of people that don't even know each other and by the end of the week we all have such a shared experience that you have made new friends for life. On our first night, camper card night, all the volunteers are quiet and nervous to share their thoughts and feelings. By the end of the week, no one is shy. I LOVE THAT! *grin*

Our CIA's were AMAZING! I can't just single one out, because everyone jumped in and did their best. We had three campers that were strong in persistence, and the CIA's swapped campers from time to time. I thought that was sweet! They also kept an eye on each other and when one camper (or two) would get up and run, they would help each other out. It was AMAZING! If I had had more time, I would have given each one a handwritten note saying how AMAZING they were, but it was Term 7 and time was so busy with campers. *grin*

Then the campers, wow, our cabin was the most unique one that I believe we have ever had. Of course, I was with Ronni (She's now 13!) again, and that was full of LAUGHTER and fun. *grin* Ronni would call us Pork Chop, and I called her Buttercup. She brought lots of laughter and love to the cabin. On day #4 the cabin ate breakfast at the Council Ring, and Ronni wound up dancing with a boy. Of course, it was Camp Barnabas Appropriate (CBA), and it was sweet. *grin* We attempted Excursion at one point, and I didn't see Ronni. In a moment of panic, I said, "Where's Ronni?" Her CIA said, "Over talking to the boys." Sure enough, I looked over and she was sitting in a lawn chair talking to the boys. I laughed and said, "What was I thinking? I know she likes boys." Every time she would start to wander away, one boy would bring her back to the area we were at. (Still CBA, she never left the area, just started to) Yes, I keep an eye on all of our girls. *grin* Ronni was REALLY good this week, and remains at the top of my favorite camper list, although the list is growing of favorites. She's just at the TOP. *giggle* She loved it when I called her Buttercup, and I will admit, I loved having a new nickname for her! *grin*

I spent a fair amount of time with the girls at the playground. It started to be a favorite time of day for me. I was blessed to have Hopie in my cabin again. Hopie was in my cabin last year, and made me smile tons. She built my character in the beginning at times, but after we figured things out, she was a complete JOY. She would swing and sing, and it made me smile! We would often say, "Sing it, Hopie!" She LOVED it! When we were at the park or walking somewhere, her word was, "Awkward." I don't know that she fully understood the full meaning of the word, but it sure was cute! It became a word, like Buttercup was for Ronni.

This post wouldn't be complete without mentioning Anna. Anna was one of our campers, who had been in my cabin last year too. On camper card night, I saw her name but didn't put together that it was Anna from last year. When I first walked in the cabin after camper arrival, she saw me and put up her finger showing me to come over to her. I went over, and we hugged. It was SO GOOD to see her. Throughout the week, we spent a lot of time together, and she really grew on me as the week went on. She would move to sit by me from time to time, and I would just grin. She liked everyone, but it was still cool when she would come over to me. She was the main reason we were at the playground every night. We didn't attend even one party at night because Anna requested the playground each night, so her CIA and I would go to the playground with her. Hopie and her CIA sometimes came too. It was precious.

Anna had connected last year with a Barnstormer (14 year olds that come and serve at camp through cleaning bathrooms, serving meals, and doing dishes.) named Sarah. On camper arrival day, I saw Sarah, but hadn't been to the cabin yet, so I didn't realize it was THE ANNA. *giggle* Not long after I first saw Anna at the cabin, she said, "Where is Sarah?" I explained that I had seen her, and that she would probably be at dinner that night. Well, as it turned out, Sarah wasn't at dinner, so we did the playground, and went to wrap-up. At wrap-up, I found her, and I think Anna was thrilled. Sometimes Anna doesn't show emotion when some of us would. *grin* Well, after that, she would consistently ask "Where is Sarah?" I learned quickly (and remembered from last year) that she enjoyed the conversation from that one question. She would say it often right after she just asked me, which seemed to bother her CIA. Due to the fact I teach Special Education, I was fine with it. Sarah was AMAZING, and made a point to join us each night at the playground. I'm praying Anna and Sarah are in the same cabin next year, as Sarah was AMAZING with her and will be able to have a camper next year. I selfishly hope she's in my cabin again, as we were able to make each other laugh by the end of the week without saying a word. I LOVED IT! Everything with Anna takes time, and I felt really close to her by the end of the week. When her Dad picked her up yesterday, I was sad to see her go. I'm already praying for next year. *grin* How cool is that?

For today, I think that's all I want to share. In the future I plan to post about Excursion, the pool with Lilly, and Lice. YES, LICE. Talk about one unforgettable week. I already can't wait for Term 7, 2015!

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME!!!

He Did It!!! Jay Did It! *giggle*

Jay is the coolest dog ever.

Period.

He is also stubborn at times.

Especially when I am teaching him a new trick.

It's actually a little funny, now that I think about it, as I teach kids who often don't want to learn. Sometimes Jay acts like that too.

Some things he just picked up on.

For example, if he's on my lap, I can say, "Jay, can I get up, please?" and he will hop down off my lap. I didn't purposely try to teach that to him, it just sort of happened.

That's also how he learned "Hop" and in the morning when I kiss him on the top of his head it means we're up for the day. He just kind of picked up on it. *grin*

At the same time, for him to learn to shake hands, it took WEEKS.

Apparently my latest trick has taken some time too.

Over time, we have accumulated two KONGS. Kongs are rubber holders for dog toys that he has to work out. It's a GREAT time filler for the pup if I'm busy. *grin*

I have been asking him to "Go get it, bring it to me." To which he just growls at me, knowing it has to do with a treat.

I jokingly have told people that he is Learning Disabled. *giggle* He's not, but it makes for a good laugh.

So today I asked Jay to bring it to me, he growled, and I left him alone. Just like with "Shake" I wondered if he could learn it.

Then when I wasn't even looking, he brought it to me, and I just laughed. And, of course, filled it with a treat. *giggle*

I'll see tomorrow if he will do it again, but for tonight I'm smiling. *grin* This has been WEEKS in the making!

Okay, so it's not world peace, or a million dollars.

It was my HAPPY in my day though!

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME.

Social Media Ponderings

I've been debating tonight about what to write. Do I share another camp story, or do I share about my week this week? I haven't quite landed anywhere, so this will be an interesting post. *grin*

I watched a five minute video a little while ago on the impact of social media on our society. It has had me pondering. As a single adult, that social media has helped me stay in touch with people that I moved away from and feel as if I'm still a part of their lives. In that aspect, it's been AWESOME. I'm not sure how well this move would have been in 2009 if I hadn't had Social Media. In a way that is sad and cool all that the same time.

On the other hand, I remember being at camp. For almost a whole week, teens were told to put their phones away to serve campers. As an adult, I could keep mine, but had to be respectful with it. In other words, I kept it on airplane mode, and mainly used it for pictures. Sure, here and there I texted or checked media, but overall, I did okay.

After seeing the video though, it really challenged me.

How much time am I on my phone when I could be doing a gazillion other things? How social is social media really?

I don't have any answers, I've just started this pondering stuff on Social Media tonight.

I do know though, that I want to be intentional with those I'm around, and not be focused on my phone as much.

So much of life is about balance. I think I need to do some assessment of my level of balance with my electronic devices. Not meaning I need to get rid of it all together, but think about when to use it and when to focus on the here and now.

I will keep ya posted.

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
GOOD.

Term 5, 2014, Blue Fingernails

As this week has gone on, the more I have looked at my fingernails. They are blue. Well, mostly blue because the fingernail paint is coming off of a few of them.

A little tidbit about me is that I don't paint my fingernails on a regular basis. Okay, let me get real, I don't paint them period. The only time of year that they are painted is during the Summer when I'm at camp. *grin*

Camp typically stretches me when it comes to the girly stuff. There was a day I was a girly girl, but I don't remember it because I was REALLY little. From about 3rd grade on, I have not been a girly girl. I enjoy dressing comfortably, not for fashion. I'd rather be playing ball than painting fingernails. I'd rather do a quick shower, dry my hair, and go do something else, instead of sit in front of a mirror and do hair, makeup, etc. I don't dislike people who like the girly stuff, NOT AT ALL. It's just not me.

So, when it comes time for camp, and the girly stuff, it's a step out of my comfort zone. However, within reason, I'll do a lot for the campers and CIA's in my cabin. *grin*

Last week we had a gal in our cabin who was a little emotional at times. She was PRECIOUS, and I had promised her that she could do my hair and make-up one night. So, one night after showers we were waiting for the party, and she did my nails in blue. It is kinda cool because that's my favorite color. It may not always match my outfit, but I don't care. It reminds me of the camper, and that makes me smile. *grin*

She did my makeup too, and the lipstick was somewhat off my lips. *grin* I'm telling you, it was precious. *grin*

Blue fingernails.

I love camp!

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME!

Term 5, 2014, Part 3, Falls

One thing that I didn't expect to happen this past week was the amount of actual falls I made throughout the week. Typically I fall one time, maybe two, during a week out at camp. During Term 5, I fell a total of 5 times. It wasn't elegant, or fun, but it was something worth sharing.

Before you ask, yes, I did everything Woody and Zartie taught me. A few times I started to fall, caught myself, and didn't fall. At the same time, I fell more times than I wanted to, and my legs show it.

Here's the thing, I don't share this for your pity.

I share this because it's one part of me. Part of me is that I fall from time to time. On our last night of camp, I fell twice. Both of the falls were because the ground changed surfaces, and I misjudged it.

I'm fine.

I'll survive.

On about my third fall, I started seriously talking to the Lord about it. I was embarrassed each time I fell in front of people.

Then He reminded me of something.

What's important is that I get back up again.

I move the dirt off me.

And keep going.

Then I thought about it even deeper. I can think of several people I know that are staying down, as they are in a battle. I get that, but they are staying down.

He reminded me, I may fall but I always get back up.

ALWAYS.

So, perhaps this is something you needed to read tonight. *grin*

The beauty of camp was that I wasn't the only one that fell last week, and all of us at camp got back up again. INCLUDING one of my staffers who hurt her ankle.

Thank You, Lord.

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME!

Term 5, 2014, Part 2, The Excursion Story *grin*

I have been pondering what else to share from Term 5. I have found over the years at camp, that the thing that matters the most to me out there are the people. HOWEVER, there are some stories that are worth sharing, and it's probably more for me than you. However, I do hope you enjoy reading this post. *grin*

When I initially saw the activities schedule for the week, I saw that we had EXCURSION listed for Day #2. Excursion means spending the day and night out in the wilderness. We are still on Barnabas property, but it is camping at it's roughest. *grin* I'll be open about this, I have a love/hate thing about Excursion. On one hand, it is a rather chill day, typically not a ton of walking once we're out at the site. The girls typically swim in the river, but I stay out due to the route down to the water. It typically works out great because there is typically a camper who doesn't want to swim too, so it works out fine. We sit and watch everyone swim. So, you might be wondering, why do I hate it too? Well, we had a couple campers who stressed over it, stating that they could not sleep outside. We also had several CIA's that knew what it was about and knew that we were in for a rough day with our campers. It wasn't that they were bad, it was just going to be a tough sell to them. One in particular really stressed over it, and repeated the phrase, "I can't sleep outside" a lot. We simply said, "um, okay." We figured it wasn't worth arguing with her. *grin* So, at Wrap up the night before our Excursion, they did the mic check song. While the team sang the mic check song, a group of us were singing our own version of "Let it Rain". Our logic was that if it rained, we could do an indoor version of Excursion, have fun, and not stress out our girls. We literally prayed for rain. *grin* Guess what we woke up to the next day? Yep, RAIN!!! While the other cabin moms in the room I slept in weren't sure what to make of the rain, I was cheering and told them what we prayed for the night before. *grin* I love it when He answers prayers like that! *grin*

I did feel bad for the group that had Excursion the day before, as the tent fell in on them and they came back in to the cabins at 3:00am-ish due to massive rain. That would not have been fun.

However, for us, the rain was a blessing from God. Our cabin wound up doing a modified Excursion experience. Meaning, they went out for smore's during wrap-up, and ate breakfast out at the Council Ring. They slept in the cabin. *grin*

As a Side-Note, I stayed in for wrap-up, since CJ had gotten me a chair and all. *grin* One of my staffers told me it was fine I stayed, and said I could go out after wrap-up. I almost went out after the best wrap-up of the week, and really felt like just showering, reading, and crashing instead. As it turned out, that was PERFECT, because I would have gone to the wrong place. I thought the Council Ring was at the Excursion site. As it turns out, it wasn't. *grin* I would have gone out in the dark to the wrong place. *giggle*

In the end, I would say our Excursion experience was perfect. *grin* In the future, if they ask my opinion on Excursion, I will tell them that I think sleeping outside should be optional, as that raised several camper's stress levels. I even had another cabin mom tell me that one of her campers was in a state of panic all week leading up to their Excursion. I think Excursion is a GREAT idea, I just think since they modify every other activity, Excursion should be able to be modified to meet the campers where they're at. *grin*

Stay tuned for future posts. I still have canoes, wrap-up, a few falls, and Pottery House stories to share. *giggle*

Have I mentioned lately that I LOVE CAMP? *GRIN*

LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME!!!

PRECIOUS, Term 5, 2014

I just spent another week out at Camp Barnabas, and must admit that I came home changed.

Again.

*giggle*

I was talking to a new friend yesterday before lunch about how I wish I could transport everyone in my little corner of the world to camp because words fail to explain how it changes people. Not just me, but everyone that spends a week out there walks away different than they were when they arrived.

I will share a few amazing things from this week, but I realize it will lose something in translation. That's fine. I encourage you to go to the Camp Barnabas Facebook Page and follow it. Seeing the pictures and videos will help. In the event you have a free week, consider serving for a week. I promise you, you will never see life quite the same way again.

Perhaps my favorite thing about camp is how "normal" people with disabilities feel in the midst of the community. I am always amazed at how the teens look at me when I enter registration, and how they see me at Closing Ceremonies. No one is staring any more, I'm just Momma Shannon. I LOVE THAT. Obviously, the limp hasn't held me back, but sometimes the stares get old. Out there, no one stares after camper arrival. It's AMAZINGLY COOL.

So, this week I was with nine campers, eight CIA's, two full time cabin staffers, and several Barnabas on the Lake (B.O.L.) staffers. Term 5 is for teens and young adults with Autism, Down Syndrome, and Developmental Delays. I have been to Term 5, but not for a year or two. I am SO GLAD I went this year!!! The young ladies I saw a couple years ago have grown up! It was SO MUCH FUN!!! *grin*

Smilinggirl wasn't even in my cabin, but EVERY time she saw me, she would come over and take my hands and smile at me. It was precious!!! (Yes, precious became my word for the week.)

My Twin, who also wasn't in my cabin, was precious as well and would forget that she had met me, and when she saw me she would comment on how our glasses were so similar. Gosh, she was so precious! *grin*

MarthaGrace was there, and from time to time she would find me and invite me into her world. It's amazing, this is my eighth year out at camp, and I'm still enormously blessed when she invites me in her world for the 7-10 seconds at a time. She is PRECIOUS and will ALWAYS be a favorite of mine.

Katie was there, and she made me smile too. She wasn't in my cabin either, but if you know Katie, she isn't quiet, (in a good way) so she made me smile too. Yes, lots of smiles this week.

CJ was there, and obviously he was on the boys side of camp, but every time he saw me, we chatted. We even sat by each other one night at Wrap-Up. Gosh, he's funny. I love listening to him sing. Yes, you guessed it, he's PRECIOUS too! *grin*

Now for my cabin. Gosh, I was blessed by EVERYONE! For those of you new to my little corner of the world, a CIA is a teen who works one-on-one with the camper for the week. The CIA serves the camper in all capacities, with the assistance (as needed) of staff, cabin parents, etc. Campers are NEVER alone with ANYONE. Sidenote: my job 95% of the time is to be a "Third" to the restroom, hydration station, etc. This prevents all appearances of something negative in such a positive environment.

We had one non-verbal camper, who just brought smiles to everyone at one point or another. *grin* Quiet Gal had a jump rope that we twirled A LOT! I LOVED every moment of it. She also invited me into her world several times, and each time I was doing a happy dance on the inside. She is SO PRECIOUS. Her Christian in Action (CIA) was AMAZING and did better than most CIA's that I've worked with. Serving as Cabin Mom, I'm prepared to jump in and help, but I also realize the importance of letting the CIA's do it. More than once I had to hold myself back to let the CIA serve her camper. I don't know my super heroes any more, but if there's an amazing woman hero, it would be this gal. And, she didn't see any of it as a big deal, which made it even that much more PRECIOUS. *grin*

Unfortunately, I didn't get to know some of our campers and CIA's as much as others. That's not unusual in Barnabas world. I just serve where I'm needed. Unfortunately, the higher functioning ladies don't typically talk to me as much. I do know that every chance I had to watch the other ladies with their campers, I was pleased with every single one of them. Were they perfect? No, but they sure did an amazing job trying! I'm pretty sure every one of them walked away changed.

There was one camper, Banana, who I did get to talk to from time to time, as her CIA was in a training off and on all week. I wound up REALLY liking her tons. I had seen her around camp, but had never had her in a cabin. Before I knew it, I found myself talking to her, and asking questions to her to get to know her even better. She will be back to serve during Term 7, and I will be too! I'm SO EXCITED!!! It will be a little reunion! *grin* Yep, PRECIOUS!!! *grin*

One CIA, TexasGal, struggled in the beginning of the week, and wound up happy with everything in the end. Sometimes I just pray over the girls, as I know God is at work and I can't step in. I wanted to step in, trust me, but He had to work in her. I hope she returns, as she was a good CIA. *grin*

Squeegee Gal was a hit in our cabin. We even wound up with a Squeegee cheer. Gosh, I'll never see the squeegee the same way again. *giggle* I LOVE CAMP!

Happy, one of our campers, wasn't sure of me all week. I didn't push her to bond with me, but today was priceless. She was having people sign her shirt, and I saw her doing that, but didn't say a word. A little while later, she walked over and gave me the marker. I have to admit, I smiled. *grin*

Staffers, oh gosh, I had two AMAZING staffers. In some ways they were as different as night and day, but gosh they showed the love of God to each person that crossed their path. In fact, that went for every staffer I worked with this week. I'll be honest here, that hasn't always been the case, but this year they have some amazing staffers, and each camper is blessed to be in their cabins. I'm going back for Term 7, and I've had so many good staffers, that I want to have several of them during Term 7. I guess I'll pray about that.

I see now that it's late, and I want to read and crash. I'll post again tomorrow, as I have a lot more to share.

I do know one thing for sure, Term 5 was PRECIOUS and I'm SO GLAD I went.

Time to read and crash.

I LOVE CAMP, but I'm ready to sleep in tomorrow.

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME.
AND.
PRECIOUS. *giggle*

Summer 2014 Adventures

This Summer is turning out to be one of my most adventurous ones that I can recall. I sit here and think, "Wow, I've now lived here 5 years." Where did the time go? Seriously. I feel like it was just yesterday I moved in. Wow. Anyway, back to my adventurous Summer.

A few weeks ago my friend brought her family, and a teacher friend joined us, and we did Sea Life here in KC. I LOVED IT. I didn't expect much, as I had never been to a Sea Life, but it was INCREDIBLE and I learned TONS. The sharks were my favorite, and you could have left me there to watch them for a while. It was really cool! It was also nice, as we typically do the zoo, so it was fun to do something new.

We also ate at Fritz's, which was a really fun restaurant. At Fritz's, the food is delivered from trains! It was AMAZINGLY cool. The food was about the quality of Sonic, so it was okay. I will admit, watching the kids experience it was a true highlight for me.

The next day we did LegoLand. I was AMAZED at LegoLand. I will admit, my expectations were incredibly low, so the 9 stations proved to be SUPER! I guess 8, we didn't do the movie. I guess I need to go back so I can experience the movie. *giggle* Of course, I'll need to borrow a kid for that because you cannot get into LegoLand without a child. My favorite rooms were the Kansas City Room and the Star Wars Room. The detail put into the creations made by legos absolutely blew me away! *grin* I LOVED it!

Last weekend, I had a young teen, nicknamed C-Man, come spend the weekend with me. We attended Maker's Faire and Science City with a family I know here in K.C. Science City was a part of the Faire, and was my favorite part of the entire weekend. I work at a school where Science City is a field trip, but I had never been there. I was AMAZED at the three levels of activities for kids of ALL ages! You know how you go to museums and tell kids, "Don't touch?" Well, in Science City, they are to touch everything! It was SO MUCH FUN! I was also blown away by the Faire where I was able to see a real-life R2D2. I thought that was AWESOME! I also learned that combining Mentos and Coke can create a reaction that was shown in the form of a Coke Fountain Show. I'll admit, I REALLY enjoyed that too! Enjoying the Faire through the eyes of the little people we were with made it even more fun. We concluded the first day with dinner at Fritz's. It was amazingly fun! I also saw my first, live, Tesla Coil! *grin* That was a true highlight too!

I walked TONS which wore me out, but it was all worth it. It took me an entire day to rest up after the weekend, but it was one unforgettable weekend! *grin*

You may be wondering why it took me so long to blog about these events. I'll admit, I've jumped into RELAXING this Summer. I am about to finish another book and start another one. I'm determined to start the school year well-rested and ready to jump back into teaching. *grin*

For now though, I think I'll go read my book.

Have a blessed day!

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME!

TEASE by Amanda Maciel *****

I have jumped into the Summer Reading Season with JOY! I will openly admit that having various gifts given to me at the end of the school year has made it FUN to finish a book and start a new one. I find myself reading more than doing anything else, and I LOVE it!!!

I wanted to write tonight about the book TEASE by Amanda Maciel. I LOVED this book. Okay, wait, perhaps "loved" is a weird word in this case. Um, it's a Young Adult book with a bully at the center of it. In our world today, we hear the word "Bully" often. I will admit, when I read the book summary on Amazon, I was immediately intrigued. This book did not let me down.

I was immersed into Sara's world. I used to think, "What can they possibly have to bully each other about?" See, I used to be bullied from time to time. (The limp was an easy target.) I handled some situations better than others, and now use one of the situations in my classroom to help students feel comfortable to talk to adults about bullying because I didn't feel that. That being said, I used to think, "A limp is a target, what other targets are there for those who aren't physically challenged?" This book taught me tons about that. I'm honestly glad my childhood didn't include the internet or social media. I also now believe (more than before I read this book) that parents need to be on the sites their kids are on. Will that eliminate cyber bullying completely? No, but gosh if parents were watching and protecting their kids, it might be decreased.

So, I recommend you pick up TEASE by Amanda Maciel. Yeah, it had a few words I don't use in my daily vocabulary, but that's what most teens do. Look beyond that for the message. It will definitely change your outlook on life.

As for me, I'm now into a new book. I'm sure a new book recommendation will be up soon!

LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME...on Summer Break.

Children of the Day Bible Study, Day #1

In May, a friend invited me to join a bible study at her church. I didn't even have to pray, I knew He was calling me to do it. I didn't even hesitate, and told my friend to sign me up! I missed the first night, as I was out at Camp at that time. My friend texted me and gave me a sneak preview into what the study was about. I smiled and headed on to the camp activity that was next. *grin* They didn't hold the study last week due to vacation bible school, so tonight was the first night for me. I LOVED IT.

I didn't have a book.

I didn't have my friend. (She couldn't make it.)

I fought that feeling of, "I wanna stay home tonight."

I'm SO glad I went.

Before I went, I thought to myself that I go to camp and may or may not know people, (Outside of staff) but I jump in and make friends, so I can do that tonight. *grin*

So I went.

*grin*

There were nuggets that I walked away with that I've been hungry to hear. I LOVE my church, and the Prayer Room. At the same time, it was fun to have a new study that was different from the IHOP stuff. Don't get me wrong, I love the IHOP stuff, but I've heard it all. I've been dry and hungry for something new.

God answered that unspoken prayer tonight.

I'm not sure what all I'm about to dive into, but I do know I enjoyed tonight a lot. I'm looking forward to next week already. *grin*

For now, I need to order the book. *grin*

LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME. Thank you, Lord!

Staffers 2014, Term 1

I always pray on my drive to camp about what staffers I will be serving beside for the week. I've had some amazingly good staffers, and some that weren't stellar. Overall though, they've been His light into the lives around them. This week that was the case, as I was blessed by both the staffers I served beside.

Megan I had seen around before, but didn't know her name or how she fit into the Barnabas world. Turns out she works with the Prep program, and knows her stuff! Much like my teacher voice, she has a voice that she can break out that is very similar. I must say, she never did it, but she threatened it, and I smiled. She was super nice, and willing to do whatever she needed to do to help out. I look forward to seeing what else He has in store for her, because she's clearly in the beginning of her ministry that He has for her.

Kali, oh gosh, Kali. I felt like God paired us up so I could come alongside her and cheer her on in life. Let me first say she worked harder than anyone else in the entire cabin. I truly believe that. On about the third day, I heard her testimony, and it blessed me immensely. Kali's life is quite a testimony in itself, and she could be out causing problems because of her history. However, He gave her some amazing people in her life, and she is a blessing to everyone around her. I was also blessed to hear that we have some mutual friends, so I can stay connected with her beyond Camp. I've already sent her mail and plan to support her in any way He may have me do that. My life is now better with Kali in it. *grin*

The chances are rare that I will have these girls again as staffers this year. I've only had that happen once in my years serving at Barnabas. So, I know He will have me where He wants me. However, Megan and Kali will be on my "Amazing Staffers at Barnabas List."

*grin*
Life.
Is.
Awesome.

Lela, Term 1, 2014

For years, I have known a camper named Lela. She was in my cabin during Barnabreak in 2012, but I had seen her around camp even before then, I think. She is taller than me, but gosh she's precious. Lela is non-verbal, meaning that she doesn't talk at all. She can respond to yes/no questions in a variety of ways, but doesn't actually speak like you or me. Which is amazing to me, as she spoke volumes to me this week.

Let me explain.

So, Lela was in different cabin than mine this week, but when I saw her I was so glad she was there! I was a little surprised to see her, as she typically comes term 5, but I was glad to see a familiar face since I'm fairly new to Term 1. *grin* I have ALWAYS said HI to Lela every time I walked by her over the years, but haven't always stopped. This week was a little different, by her choice.

I believe the first encounter I had with Lela was at the first party. It's the first one I can recall at least. (I wonder if they make memory pills, as I am finding getting older is character-building. *grin*) I saw her with one of my favorite staffers from last year, and was excited when they came over to me. I offered Lela my chair, and she took it briefly. Then she stood up and took my hands. I silently prayed in my head because I remembered that Lela has been known to hit people, even when attempting to connect with them.

I remember one year (I can't remember what specific year it was) when she was trying to connect with a guy right outside the dance in the dining hall, and would hug, then hit, then go away from him. That cycle would repeat over and over again, and her CIA would have to stop her. It was quite a sight to watch. Therefore, I was somewhat prepared for the hit, but prayed silently that she wouldn't hit me and she never did. *grin*

So, that first interaction was under the dome, and she took my chair and sat down. Next, she stood up and grabbed my hands as I talked to her. I told her I remembered her stealing my pretzels the weekend we were at Barnabreak. I asked her if she wanted me to go get pretzels, and she shook her head no and smiled. Julia, one of the CIA's (and a favorite staffer of mine from last year), was there and said that it was the first smile they had seen so far. (It was the first night, so thankfully it wasn't as if it had been all week without a smile.) *grin* Then they would go to leave, and then came back to me two or three times. Each time she came back, she would take my hands and I would talk to her. Honestly, I felt honored to be invited into her world. Then she would move on. When I felt as if the moment had passed, I left to join my cabin. Overall, this was probably a twenty minute time period, and it was the highlight of my day that day. *grin*

One other time, I was walking on the path with Molly and Brittany, and Lela and her two gals were with her, and Lela walked up and took my arm. So, I started walking with her, arm-in-arm, as we walked to her cabin. I LOVED that moment. Lela could have let go at any moment, as I don't ever force a camper to hold on, but she just held on. When I got her back to her cabin, I left her to go join Brittany and Molly. I was still smiling on the inside because I had (once again) been invited into Lela's world again. *grin*

On Thursday it rained HARD in the morning, and activities were canceled and there was a coffee shop kind of thing in the dining hall. Upon entering I walked down the aisle and Lela saw me. I said "Hi" and they were headed to the restroom, so I helped take her there. We went there and it turned out she didn't need to go, so I walked her back to her table. What happened next still has me smiling.

A little while later, I was talking to two former staffers, and Lela found me. She purposely sought me out and took my hands. I stopped talking to my friends, and turned to talk with her. She just stood there, made eye contact, and listened. I didn't expect her to stay long, but we shared that moment for longer than I expected. As usual, she always had the ability to leave, but she seemed happy to just stay with me. She never said a word, but gosh she was so precious in that moment. It was, quite possibly, my favorite moment of the entire week. Not because I'm anyone super special, but because Lela felt connected to me, when she simply doesn't share that kind of moment with everyone. In that way, I did feel special. *grin*

After I got home yesterday, one of my friends that had been there and witnessed the whole thing, sent me a picture of it and stated that she asked around and Lela doesn't do that with everyone. That just made me grin ear-to-ear. Not because I'm some long-lost insecure gal, but because it made me appreciate that moment even more.

On a daily basis, I find highlights of each day. Out at camp, there are so many that during family time each night it's hard to pick just one. But, in order to get enough sleep each night, everyone typically chooses just one. *grin*

Each time Lela chose me, I smiled because I knew the Lord was speaking to me through her. He always does that, He always chooses those that are non-verbal to teach me the most. You're probably thinking, "What? How? She doesn't talk." Yep, the Lord reminded me that I'm still His, I'm not alone, and that in the battle I'm currently in (won't share, it's private) He's with me. *grin* Even though I can't talk about what's up (I'm fine, this isn't life or death, just a shift in some things for me) He's there.

*grin*

Thank You Lord for Lela.

My life is better with her in it, and yes, I'll share pretzels with her any time.

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME.

Term 1, 2014, Camp Barnabas, Adult Friends

For the second year in a row, I attended Camp Barnabas' Term 1, Adult Friends Week. While I was slightly hesitant due to the lack of a break between work and camp, it turned out to be a gift from the Lord.

Upon arrival, we had our usual training stuff. You'd think I would hate that, but I don't. That time is a good time to get to know our cabins and learn about our future campers. In one of our sessions, one of the camp leaders said, "This place changes you." I couldn't agree more. *grin*

From our first cabin meeting to camper pickup today, the Lord continually met me in the coolest ways. The most amazing thing is how I'm not as tired as I usually am after a week at camp. I figure I want to share all I can tonight before I forget stuff. (This getting older stuff is for the birds.) *grin*

Upon meeting everyone in our cabin, I had one thought, "I Love how He brings people together who don't know each other, and we all become a family by the end." This week that was very true.

Training seems long because you sit for hours, but it wasn't too bad. I started doing thank you cards in the session, as sitting still is hard for me. I was SUPER tired Sunday and Monday, as my body had to adjust to lack of soda and candy. Truth be told, I feel better now than I have in a long time. I drank tons of water (I always do at camp) and literally felt better.

Camper cards always make me pray, and I prayed for the week as the girls were going through the cards. I went into the week not knowing one of our campers. I was slightly bummed, as I really wanted some of my campers from last year. Of course, He had other ideas. *grin* It was a stretch for me, as I usually know the campers, but since I have only attended Term 1 last year for the first time, I didn't know any of them. As it turned out, I LOVED every one of them. *grin* Happens every time.

Something that is always amazing is how perfectly each CIA and camper are paired up. They pray and then pick based upon the time with the Lord. It ALWAYS works out. *grin* I love how He does that!

So, Anna (CIA) took Paula (Camper). Anna changed this week. She went from a shy young lady, to a gal who could entertain the campers through her animal impersonations. She's pretty amazing. And Paula, well, she was shy but Anna was able to make her feel included. It was AMAZING. *grin* I was so happy to see Anna happy at the end of the week. She did a GREAT job with all the girls.

Molly (CIA) took Brittany and Amanda. Yes, she had two campers because we had fewer CIA's than campers. This was Molly's first year as a CIA, but you wouldn't have guessed that by watching her. She did GREAT with both girls. Speaking personally, I enjoyed the time spent with Molly, walking all over camp with Brittany. I'm praying Molly goes out for Staff. Barnabas would be BLESSED to have her. Amanda was an amazing camper that was patient in ways I probably wouldn't have been as a young adult. I hope to be in Amanda's cabin again, because I want to get to know her better. I spent more time with others, and didn't get super close to Amanda.

Brittany (Camper) is a precious young lady who walks at my pace. We got to know each other very well, and He knitted our hearts together. I had seen her around camp before, but I never knew her name. My life is better now with Brittany in it.

Dani (CIA) was paired up with Traci (Camper) and I adored both the girls. Both of them loved to laugh, Traci especially! *grin* One night while waiting for dinner, we wound up laughing so hard my side hurt! It was AWESOME! I don't know Dani as well because Traci did so well on her own, but I did think Dani did an incredible job with Traci.

Kelsee (CIA) and Leanna (Camper) were paired up, and I know God worked on both of their hearts this week. Leanna is a sweetheart who is coming back Term 7, just like I am! That made me SUPER happy! *grin* Kelsee has amazing potential, and she will remain on my prayer list in the days and years to come. She's amazing, I am just not sure she sees what I do in her, which is all good. *grin*

Lydia (CIA) was paired with Julie and Cassie (Both campers). I think Lydia had two of the most entertaining campers in the cabin. Lydia did an AMAZING job, helping EVERYONE, not just her campers, with a cheerful heart. She made me smile a lot. Julie's verbal skills kept us smiling regularly, and loved everyone in our cabin freely. She also carries joy just by being herself. Each night at wrap-up, she was dancing and clapping, and inspiring our cabin to enjoy the music. It was neat. Cassie, well, was Cassie, and her verbal abilities ALWAYS made us laugh. She was GREAT at telling each of us that she loved us. At first, I had to get used to it, as it sounded a little robotic. However, the more she said it, the more I understood that was her true feeling. She just struggles to share new thoughts and would share the same things over and over. I felt it was the Lord reminding our girls how loved they are by Him. We all loved Julie and Cassie in special ways. *grin*

Grace (CIA) and Amy (Camper) were paired up, and that was also perfect. Amy had us laughing often through her, well, sounds. She burped a lot, but also just made sounds that would turn into laughter. We loved Amy! Grace also held a special place in my heart, as the Lord stretched her all week since she was homesick. Grace did a GREAT job, and I don't think Amy even knew that Grace was homesick. She really pushed through, and I was proud of her. I hope she comes back, as she did a great job while being homesick, and I can only imagine what He would do through her when she wasn't homesick. I'll be praying for her in the days and weeks to come. *grin*

Grace (CIA) and Rebecca (Camper) were paired up. Now don't get confused here, we had two CIA's named Grace. I will admit, both gals named Grace were homesick, but they both pushed through. I was so proud. Also, Grace did a great job being honest and real during family times, and I LOVED that. *grin* I tried to give Rebecca a nickname all week, and she wouldn't let me. It was kind of funny to me, but I respected her wishes. I didn't know Rebecca well, as she did well on her own, but I liked her a lot. She made me smile often, as she would say, "There's Mommy", referring to me. *grin*

I think the added bonus was that my girls from last year also returned. I spent a small amount of time with my girls from last year too, which made me smile. Crystal (Camper) poked me every time she saw me, and called me "Momma Shannon." *grin* Today before we left, Crystal had me sign her shirt. I have to admit, that made me smile. *grin*

Ashley returned (camper) too and I was able to make her laugh every time I saw her. It was fun. Today she kissed my hands twice at breakfast. She is precious!

Red-Head Ashlee was also back (Camper) and would mess up my hair or hat every chance she had. Red-Head REALLY likes me a lot, and we haven't been in the same cabin for YEARS. However, I smiled a big smile because she still remembers me. *grin*

Becky (camper) hugged me every time she saw me. Her staff figured out how to make her walk faster, but making it a walking race. Becky seemed happier this year, which I was glad to see.

Mary Kate (Camper) was also back, but said very little. She hasn't changed much, but seemed to be having a good time. Mary Kate never really said a lot, but came back, so I was happy to see her.

Jennifer (camper) returned and more than once I stopped to help calm her down. We had several storms move through, and she is scared of storms. I was proud of her, as she pushed through. I hope Jennifer comes back next year.

Lela, oh, Lela, that will be a separate post tomorrow. The Lord TOTALLY spoke to me through Lela. *grin*

Other highlights included the new dome at the tennis courts, being asked by leadership to do something new for one evening (I liked it more than I thought I did.), making unity ankle bracelets, sharing my testimony during gospel, winning Honor Cabin on Day #1, laughing, being a third, Wrap up, catching up with staffers, seeing Julia and Taylor, and being caught in the rain with Brittany and Molly.

Finally, I stopped by and saw Ronni and her family before heading home. It was WONDERFUL to see her. She has grown up! It was a great end to the trip.

So, now I'm home on the couch and am quite happy here. I plan on resting tomorrow. I LOVE camp, but I also like being home too!

By the way, yes, I walked away changed too. It's something I can't put into words. I just know that He blessed me this past week in ways that I can't explain, and I'm happier tonight than I was one week ago.

Thank You, Lord.

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
GOOD.

A Gift To Remember

Today I turned...okay, why share the number?

Okay, I'm 41 today.

Shhhhhhh! I'm young. *giggle*

So, we did our family celebration last weekend, so I didn't expect much today.

I expected the usual, "Happy Birthday, Ms. Springer." That's all I needed.

What happened though, is something that has touched my heart.

Around 9am, I had a student bring in a BASKET of goodies for me. Now, I'll be honest, that typically means a basket of stuff I'll share with everyone because people don't know what I like. HOWEVER, this kid knows me REALLY well. This is my fourth year with this student, so we have spent some time together. *grin* I'll admit, I do like that I loop with my students, so I can work with them several years in a row. *grin*

In the basket was pepsi (my favorite drink), M&M's (my favorite candy) in 3 different sized bags, a go cup with an amazing teacher phrase, 3 notebooks (one pink, blue, and green) that each symbolize the color of the reading book he completed with me, 2 spirals (what they write in daily), lip balm (something I've used a lot), flyswatter for the flies in grade four, a pack of my favorite G-2 pens, envelopes for all the letter writing we do, a Happy Birthday crown, and a card that will go in my scrapbook.

I kept staring at the basket all day.

I don't think I've ever had a kid pay that much attention to what I like before. Typically they are so absorbed into their own world, they don't think beyond themselves.

This kid did, and it will probably go down as the most memorable gift I've ever received from a student.

Some parents just give me what they think an adult would want. While I appreciate that, I will admit that the best gifts are the ones given by the kid. *grin*

So, even though in time the food and drinks will be gone, that's okay.

I plan to use the blue, green, and pink notebooks in special ways in the next school year.

I texted the student's Mom to say "Thanks" and she said that they went out three separate times to get things for me, and that he had put it all together. I believe it. This kid is pretty amazing, and already had a piece of my heart before today. However, today he really blessed me with the level of thought he put into that basket. *grin*

Too bad I can't keep him, but the thing is, he will go onto Middle School next year. That's okay, I look forward to hearing the amazing things he will do with his life. *grin*

For today, I'll keep the basket together. It's a little reminder that kids can bless me just like I bless them!

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME!!!

Lifting My Heart, Lifting My Head *grin*

Gosh life has been CRAZY. That's a-okay. *grin* The end of the school year is always busy, so this is nothing new. It's just been so busy that I wanted to take time and blog. I wanted to blog last Sunday, as I met one of my favorite worship leaders on the Base. But, I had so much to do, it just didn't happen. *grin*

I was walking out of the Prayer Room and Laura Hackett passed me and opened the door for me. I felt like a little kid, as one of my favorite song leaders stood in front of me. I had no idea what the work week had in store for me, but I fully believe He made that happen to encourage me in a very special way.

Laura has a new song (or perhaps just new to me) on the Sing Your Praises album from Onething2013, that gripped me from the first time I heard it.

It opens with:

"Do Your eyes see me now? Are you smiling? Are you proud?
I believe You are, and this changes everything..."

I have had the song on repeat since I got the album, and have been deep in thought as I've listened to it. There was a day I was in a church that that song wouldn't have gone over very well. Gosh, I've come a long way! *grin* Praise the Lord!

So, I have also pondered how precious that thought is, He is proud of me. Doesn't matter what I've done, will do, or am doing... That makes me smile.

I am blessed, as my parents have told me they're proud of me. In fact, I have a note from my Dad that says, "You have absolutely no idea how proud I am of you" hanging on my refrigerator. *grin* I am truly blessed.

This week I had a bump in the road come my way.

What I loved was how He gave me some amazing people this side of Heaven to encourage me. I'm doing well, thanks to the people He spoke through to encourage me. *grin*

He also gave me another part of that song that gripped me:

"You're the One, there You go again, lifting my heart, lifting my head,
Hope is rising as I see You smiling..."

Love it!

Oh, so when Laura was standing in front of me last Sunday, I told her that that song had gripped me. Not because I was stuck in insecurity, but because it was just so good to meditate on. She understood what I meant. She held her hand out, and asked for my name, and said she'd seen me in her sets. *grin* I was grinning ear-to-ear.

Then I fell over. Literally.

And it turns out He even used that to help me.

As I hit the bump this week, I was down, and He reminded me that in life, there will be ups and downs. What's important is that I still get back up. *grin*

Of course, the day after the bump in the road, He blessed me through a student's family. They had no idea what had happened this week, but it was exactly what I needed. *grin*

I just love how He loves us, especially in the bumps in the road that come along the way!

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME!

Day #6

It is Friday.

Words cannot express how ready I am for a couple days off. *grin*

Nothing is wrong, and it was actually a pretty good week.

I'm just tired.

I had a few highlights of my day today. One of them was when a parent stopped, hugged me, and thanked me for all the work I've done for her child. That blessed me. She said her son wouldn't be able to do what we he can do without me. I smiled. Priceless.

I was also out of my room most of the morning due to meetings. I don't like to be gone a lot, as I enjoy my time with students. So, when I came in this afternoon, a student had something that he was told (by my para) to wait until Monday to give me. Well, he couldn't wait, and it was one of the nicest "best teacher ever" student-made cards. Once again, priceless. The card is stapled to my scrapbook bulletin board and will be in my real scrapbook at the end of this school year.

The final highlight was having an evening on the couch. I've enjoyed relaxing tonight. I love, love, love my job, but I am ready for a couple days off.

Now to read and watch a little TV before some sleep.

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
GREAT!!!

Day #5

I have spent the evening on two reports for meetings tomorrow.

I am wiped out.

Time to read and crash.

Tomorrow is Friday.

Thank You, God.

*grin*
LIFE.
IS.
GOOD!!!

Day #4

Wow, what a difference a day makes! Today was AMAZING. *grin*

Okay, there were a few rough moments, but overall, I laughed TONS today. I am not sure how a person can be a teacher and not laugh tons everyday. The things the kids say just make me smile and laugh. It's probably one of my favorite parts of my job. *grin*

On another note, I told a student today that I liked how honest he is with me. He paused and told me that I'm the only teacher he's that comfortable with. We kept talking and I silently thanked God for the little soul he entrusted me with for this season of his life. Today's chat is one of those that will stick with me for a lifetime. *grin*

I love my job.

For. Real.

LIFE.
IS.
AWESOME.