tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74484763348323701092024-03-13T13:40:05.986-07:00Seeking Life, scriptedSwilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-60884791320303400962012-02-17T07:00:00.000-08:002012-02-17T07:00:34.833-08:00Blue Book cont'd"We come into the world with a longing to be known and a deep seated fear that we aren't what we should be. We are set up for a crisis of identity. And then, says Frederick Buechner, the world goes to work:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Starting with the rather too pretty young woman and the charming but rather unstable young man, who together know no more about being parents than they do the far side of the moon, the world sets in to making us what the world would like us to be, and because we have to survive after all, we try to make ourselves into something we hope the world will like better than it apparently did the selves we originally were. That is the story of all our lives, needless to say, and in the process of living out that story, the original, shimmering self gets buried so deep that most of us hardly end up living out of it at all. Instead, we live out all the other selves which we are constantly putting on and taking off like coats and hats against the world's weather.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Think about the part you find yourself playing, the self you put on like a costume. Who cast you in this role? Most of us are living out a script that someone else has written for us. We've not been invited to live from our (own) heart, to be who we truly are (or were created to be), so we put on these false selves hoping to offer something more acceptable to the world, something functional."<span style="font-style: italic;"> The Sacred Romance</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">"... I am never more truly myself than when I have given myself up to God. My actions are never more authentic than when they are the Spirit's actions through me. I am never more genuinely human than when I am most godly. The more harmoniously God lives within me, the more freely I live." James Houston<span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">#truth</div></div>Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-9773230871530747212012-02-16T05:22:00.001-08:002012-02-16T05:55:17.891-08:00Blue BookThis summer many of my friends had a devotional called the blue book. I was recently given one and it is wonderful. It's a daily devotional, including weekends (which alot of times I take off) with a weekly topic. It has a weekly verse, a daily verse, and excerpts from books about the topic. This week the topic is "who are you?" Here are two profound excerpts I read this morning that really spoke to where I currently am in life:<br />
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The Christians identity and value do not reside in the fragile order and tenuous control that she or he imposes on life. Identity and value are found in a vital and living relationship with Christ as Lord. This relationship liberates Christians from dependence upon their little systems of order and fragile structures of control. Not that believers live without order or control, but they are liberated from dependency on those systems and structures for their sense of self. -M. Robert Mulholland Jr.<br />
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We were not made to be alone. We were made not just for relationships, but to become people "in Christ," relating to God. As we abandon ourselves to God, moment by moment, our significance and identity will be in his hands; they become his responsibility, not mine. -James Houston<br />
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WOW! These both just spoke to me. I have always struggled with defining who I am. I debate between whether I'm an extrovert or an introvert, whether I like animals or not, if I'm a quiet person or loud.... I have always daily analyzed myself so that I could tell the next person I meet my character traits. Recently, since I have a job interview next wednesday (prayers appreciated), I have been overwhelmed by all these things I gave to do to prepare so that I can get the job... I need to stop, focus on who I am in Christ, and trust Him to place me where I am needed for his glory. All I need to do is keep my focus on Him and he will take care of the rest. Such a good reminder... God is good and he always knows what we need to hear. Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-77405679111271826842012-02-01T18:54:00.001-08:002012-02-01T18:54:56.901-08:00Blessed by the Lord&apos;s provisionThis week has been busy. Busy with moneymaking! So thankful. If this could be life and I had benefits, I'd accept it for a while, but alas I must keep searching for a full time benefits plan. <br />
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A friend from church out of her own initiative asked me last Tuesday if I wanted her to put on Facebook that I was looking for babysitting jobs. I of course said that'd be great and ten people wanted my information!only one has contacted me, but another contact from elsewhere called me for three days over the next two weeks. Currently I'm working my moneymaker. I also got called to sub on Tuesday at the school where I taught my beloved 2nd graders. I just got off the phone with a teacher who needs me next week, a job passed to me from my good friend, Joshua Barefoot. <br />
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I have been feeling the Lord's provision so much recently. I described money above, but I feel so connected at my church. I love going there and I meet new people every week. I am working in the Sunday school and tomorrow I start a mentoring relationship with an older woman. So thrilled to see what God does through that. At small group, which i have with my friends libby and nicole, the other day we reflected on how refreshing it is to get involved at Grace. It is an open and loving environment and it is the first time I have felt this comfortable at a church. Ever. Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-678136908276643272012-01-17T08:02:00.000-08:002012-01-17T08:02:24.022-08:00O-ver-whelmedIt has been a while. Besides two needed getaway trips to JMU/DC and NOVA, I have been leading a pretty lazy life. I told myself this time last year, give or take two weeks, that I was experiencing my last college winter break. A month of being off, with no stress and time with family. Well I lied to myself... this year I have managed an even longer one! It has been a challenging time for me. I welcomed it at first, needing time to catch up on sleep. But that is all I have managed to catch up on (and well I quickly joined <u>The Hunger Games</u> obsession)! Today I am attempting to motivate myself and actually put to use all this free time to more important things than catching up on all reruns of all my favorite childhood shows.... and I am blogging.<br />
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It is a hard stage of life to be post-grad, employed as a sub in a horrible economy. I have been eligible 3 days now- no calls and no success on job shopping. I hit refresh on my browser 50 times in which the same message appears: "There are no available jobs at this time." I have experienced feelings of loneliness, laziness, abandonment, failure, fear, BUT amidst it all God has provided and I have been more thankful than any other times in the past. Simple ways of providing money, like a random babysitting gig last Friday or subbing for my PM Kindergarten class next Tuesday, have caused me to continuously praise God the entire day. One of my dearest friends, Paul, encouraged me last Friday after the babysitting job while we were hanging out. He said that it was so refreshing for me to be around that night because I was so joyful, something he hasn't seen in a while.<br />
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I have been reading <u>One Thousand Gifts</u> by Ann Voskamp. It is not my favorite style of writing, so it is hard for me to absolutely love it, but the premise is something I need to learn badly. She challenges you to experience daily thanksgiving and recognition of God's gifts in everyday life; to practice being fully present. My prayer is that as I continue reading, my heart would be softened to live out daily thanksgiving. There are so many things I take for granted along with so many seemingly small ways I find God in everyday life that I usually let pass me by. How much deeper my love for the Father and recognition of His love for me would be if I could recognize more often His presence daily.<br />
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On that note, today is a day of conquering a big to do list including: organizing my job portfolio, asking questions about applying for teacher licensure, applying for teacher licensure, and asking for reference letters (biggest cause of anxiety right now). I have been putting these off, because I have been so uncertain about where I want to end up... I need to start somewhere and I need to trust God with the plan. Perhaps that will be a post for a later time.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-40380410206385738682011-12-16T04:48:00.001-08:002011-12-16T04:48:15.859-08:00“Do you know what hurts so very much? It’s love. Love is the strongest force in the world, and when it is blocked that means pain. There are two things we can do when this happens. We can kill that love so that it stops hurting. But then of course part of us dies, too. Or we can ask God to open up another route for that love to travel.”<br />
-Corrie ten Boom, The Hiding PlaceSwilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-78250218516019530482011-12-15T14:51:00.000-08:002011-12-15T14:51:32.218-08:00saying goodbye...I AM OFFICIALLY DONE WITH UNDERGRAD! Now I am an adult, except I do not yet have a job with benefits, which I could use right about now.<br />
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My second graders made me cards. Here are a few excerpts that should brighten your day:<br />
-One boy drew a picture of a dead person and wrote RIP. I went over to him and said I am not dying, I'm just leaving. He says "that's me." So I clarified, "Oh, so you're dying because I am leaving?" His answer: "Yes."<br />
-"Miss Wilson you tech us so much stuf that I think I am going to isplowd with nolig at school."<br />
-"go buy and happy birthay miss wilson."<br />
-"I love you Miss Wilson"<br />
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There are definitely students you feel like you try harder to be patient with and there are those that you desperately want to help. It is so great to look back over the past 8 weeks and feel like I made some sort of impact. I was frustrated with this class often, because it was filled with know-it-alls and I felt like I never truly gained their respect, constantly having to tell them to be quiet, but I will miss them and I have grown to love each of them. One boy I could not stand at the beginning became so dear to me the last two weeks. Another boy showed great improvement while I was there in terms of behavior and showing that he does get it. He gave me the longest hug goodbye- from the classroom to the buses- and my heart melted. I have such hopes for these children and I hope and pray that they will go far in life. I was able to write them each a letter and I tried to encourage them all by telling them to keep doing their best. I expect one will be a fashion model/actress, another a navy fighter pilot, a football player, and a translator. Maybe one will be a president... he did dress as JFK for celebrity day.<br />
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It is the relationships that make all the hours and the little pay worth it... I can't wait.<br />
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P.S. The little pay won't bother me at first, because I could use any pay....Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-36956318730634429452011-12-13T16:11:00.000-08:002011-12-13T16:12:13.279-08:00I may not understand, but He doesLast semester I was obsessed with a verse in a song- "I lean not on my own understanding, my life is in the hands of the maker of Heaven... I give it all to you, God, hoping that you'll make something beautiful out of me."<br />
A wonderful friend here just recently discovered this band, United Pursuit, thanks to another dear friend. I listened to it Friday night with her in a car as we both had tears in our eyes.... I need to listen to it daily.<br />
It is sad how disappointed and unfaithful I am when the things that I see as good and honorable to God are not brought to fruition. The thing I prayed about last semester in relation to this song is the same as the thing I pray about today.... but it has been settled, yet I still hope in it, and not in Christ's plan.<br />
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It is something I will daily have to present to the Lord, to protect my heart and to trust in his promise. It is hard.<br />
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The same Advent devotional I have been reading discussed God's plan of salvation through Jesus as being an eternal plan, thought of before the world was even created... how long did that take? And my life is so much shorter... I think I can wait. But I can't. But I should be able to.... oh how much is revealed to you when you are not surrounded by likely circumstances of single, jobless friends. Patience, patience, patience.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-31488768050453319712011-12-03T10:18:00.000-08:002011-12-03T10:25:29.614-08:00A post for Marge and Kell, because I really only keep up with this to give you an update on my lifeI have been thinking that when I have a family of my own we are going to decorate for Christmas the night of Thanksgiving, because that is how I view Thanksgiving anyway- a gateway to Christmas. I also will recommend to my husband an idea I saw a man doing today: jam out to Christmas music while stringing the lights on the house. It was awesome and I enjoyed hearing Elvis sing "I'll have a blue Christmas with out you..." as I walked by with Wilson.<br />
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Wilson is the Wilsons new Dachshund... I love him. I have a history of hating animals, but I have really liked him so far. I came home from school Thursday and was told we were getting a dog. We went to the SPCA- adoptions were free for that day, because of a large donation.<br />
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I am attempting to be focused on the reason for the season (so cheesy, but true). I have begun a weekly advent guide ( http://www.thevillagechurch.net/mediafiles/advent-guide.pdf ) and I am reading a chapter in Luke each day, since it has 27ish books. Maybe its the weather and the fact that this past week was so busy, but I have not been terribly anxious for Christmas to arrive yet. I also haven't cared to listen to Christmas music nor watch any movies.... Maybe by the end of next week.<br />
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I have been jaded by the fact that two of my close friends will be married in one week! I have been so excited, so I am sure that is why I have not gotten into the spirit.<br />
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I have decided that I really love my second graders.... but I am excited to have a break for a bit... but I will be sad on my last day... it is so bittersweet.<br />
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ps. i unintentionally did no shave november on my legs..................... it is time to shave.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-22576301089418429612011-11-26T10:29:00.000-08:002011-11-26T10:29:14.306-08:00jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs, everybody... needs oneI just conducted a search for any job listings specific for early childhood educators... womp womp. So exhausting and discouraging. I have a specific desire to work with pre-k to k children who are at risk... there is a wonderful school in Norfolk that is just for these students. Dream job! I am looking for next semester and I think I will just start applying to my beloved Starbucks...<br />
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I have been thinking alot about a discipleship program for the fall. It is with the same people I did the summer program with. I would love to live in Tennessee next fall. It is amazing how God takes your memory off something and then reminds you through others. I had forgotten all about it and I recently saw a friend who asked me if I was still thinking about it. I have not stopped thinking about it since then. Praying for this option of very intentional discipleship with people I already love and respect immensely. It would put the whole career thing on hold another year... we shall see.<br />
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2 weeks until Andrephanie wedding! I cannot contain myself.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-12724687974597338062011-11-21T14:39:00.000-08:002011-11-21T14:39:32.202-08:00Stories of Second Grade1. A student came up to me the other day and said, "I want to be millionaire rogers?" I asked to clarify, he repeated, and pointed to the job chart. I look for a few seconds and say, "Oh, you want to be the meteorologist?" (adding extra annunciation on the word).<br />
2. One student has become dear to me, and the other day his tough guy front was down and he cried over frustration in science (matter is a hard concept!). BROKE MY HEART. I think I like him even more. I am trying to fight for him and to push him to do the work I know he is capable of doing. It is kids like him that I want to work with all the time.... hm, what can I specialize in?<br />
3. We made a list of gases. My CT had students raise their hands with examples. The very first student who shares says, "farts." Cue laughter. She is gifted, and could prove why it was a gas. Props to her.<br />
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Enjoy.<br />
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One and a half days until no school for four days! So <i>thankful</i> for a break and rest and time with friends and family.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-75818302300685295022011-11-13T14:14:00.000-08:002011-11-13T14:14:23.801-08:00PW Gopal and 2nd GradeI arrived at church this morning a little late. I sat with some friends. First thing they say: that's PW Gopal. HAH! I almost didn't go to church this morning, because of anxiety of not having anyone to sit with, since my two regular attendees were both out of town. It was great. his voice is so powerful and it definitely got me pumped about the Lord.<br />
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I have yet to share stories about second grade. It is very different. The students know more, and some think they know more than me. STEP DOWN 2ND GRADER! There are definitely some I adore, but there are also some that are a challenge to love, because of their know-it-all attitudes. Is it bad that sometimes I am excited when they realize they are wrong. It is just a character flaw I do not appreciate in anyone... let alone someone 15 years younger than me. Any who... fun stories commence:<br />
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1. One boy asked his mother, the room mom, who passed the story on to me if I was married. She said she did not know, and he said, 'well if she is then she is married to Mr. Wilson, like on Dennis the Menace.' This was the theme of all of elementary school for me, so this was not new, but it's awesome he knows what that is! I did not know kids still watched that show/read the comic.<br />
2. Two of the quietest, most well-behaved boys drew pictures of 'ships' aka machine guns. They swore they were ships when I told them they should not be drawing anything that does not belong in school. It was Friday, so I didn't pursue it. They will be future servicemen.<br />
3. I read lots of scary stories about ghosts and witches and two-headed monsters.<br />
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I can't think of more. They aren't as funny. Perhaps that's why I am having a tough time. We shall see...Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-33669801629979376522011-11-09T20:02:00.000-08:002011-11-09T20:02:22.920-08:00More Thoughts and a continued spiritual updateContinuing with the theme of my last post... I prayed tonight for frustrations I have about needing to wait for my wonderfully, Godly man that people continually tell me I will have when halfway through my prayer I realized God entails all the qualities I feel like would be so appropriate now. He is a protector, a provider, a perfect lover, and a support in all circumstances. I can't wait to see who or what he has for me, but I am praying to understand that God is the greatest love of my life and whomever he brings to me will only be a glimpse of his perfection. Here's to God's perfect plan for my life. All things are possible for Him...Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-44661297029974217662011-10-31T18:50:00.000-07:002011-11-01T03:46:18.301-07:00spiritual update<a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBwQtwIwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D38XATchXJYI&ei=8UyvTqT9GsPV0QGBnenKAQ&usg=AFQjCNFOkk4NZJ5y7pWyiwnkUQ_Xzjfogg"></a><br />
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My heart will sing no other name, Jesus, Jesus...<br />
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Praying for this to be true and to become real.<br />
My singleness has been a struggle lately and it reminds me of the many silly things I put before Christ. Not okay. <br />
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Second grade is different, but good. Funny stories to come soon.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-86378790760923992612011-10-17T18:32:00.000-07:002011-10-17T18:32:41.095-07:00moving on to second grade...this is my last week in kindergarten and i am trying to forget about it until thursday, my last day. thursday will be a sad day, yet happy, because i will be returning to JMU to spend most of the weekend with the ECED girls. i observed in a second grade classroom today and they just wont be as cute. i need to remember that second grade was my favorite grade in elementary school. it will also be interesting to have more independent students. there is hope.... funny stories will continue on. today, as i was talking to three second grade girls during recess time, they asked me if a lady has a ring on her finger, does that mean she has children? i explained that ladies with rings on their left ring finger are married and they dont always have babies, but they should have a ring on their finger when they have a baby. i pointed out that i dont have one, so im not married. they told me i needed to find a husband. i said that i am trying to do so and they say 'what about the principal?' hah. <br />
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that is all for now.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-45012332392539169632011-10-06T18:41:00.000-07:002011-10-06T18:41:47.636-07:00let me say it again, i love kindergartentoday my CT was tying a boy's shoes (the same boy that says 'i love you' and 'i like your shoes' to her daily), he hugged her then looked her in the face, assessed the situation, and decided to give her a big kiss on the forehead. AHHHH i love them. that is allSwilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-56316545787313531302011-10-03T16:56:00.000-07:002011-10-03T16:56:06.514-07:00another of many reasons to love kindergartenTeacher: "Does anyone know what a Native American is?"<br />
Student: "Virginia Beach-ans"<br />
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ps. i love these children. they are the cutest of all the elementary grades. second graders just aren't going to compare.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-35580596420667177152011-09-27T13:37:00.000-07:002011-09-27T13:41:00.662-07:00why i love kindergarten1. the children are to-die-for cute! My favorite ( I know I am not supposed to have favorites) is an ESL student who constantly says 'me love you' as well as compliments my CT on her footwear. I constantly find myself wondering what these 5-year-olds will look like in 10 years and who they will become.<br />
2. the children are hilarious...<br />
<ul><li>project #1 was to make an about me poster... one boy wrote that he wants to be a doctor, tree cutter, married person, preacher, gamer when he grows up, while the rest of the children wrote one occupation</li>
<li>a sassy little girl asked me why i was wearing a shirt under my sleeveless dress. i explained that i had to wear either a sweater or shirt and that the sweater was too hot. she replies, "you don't want nobody to see your stuff." she put she wants to be a makeup artist when she grows up.</li>
<li>the same day i wore the dress a girl asks, "miss wilson, why's your stomach so big?" i can only laugh...</li>
<li>the couples in my class, so far there is one in addition to a love triangle. the couple seems like they have a bright future.......... </li>
</ul>3. it is colorful and everything is new for the kids. it allows for a more welcoming classroom, since decorations and different colors are a must.<br />
4. i sing all the time (my voice isnt the best, especially since i am getting a cold)! favorite song= days of the week to the tune of the addams family complete with snaps and clicks of the tongue. i sing throughout the day anyway when talking to myself.<br />
5. my CT always has a special treat on Fridays... I will implement that in my classroom.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-75542392981651928392011-09-12T19:38:00.000-07:002011-09-12T19:38:29.016-07:00pleasantly surprisedi have loved being at home. this should not surprise me since all last semester and throughout the summer i prayed for my time at home and that it would be good, different, and a growing experience. i hope to one day live with the certainty that my God is faithful and under control. it is a growing process..... i have come a long way but i still have so much more to grow.<br />
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i <b>love</b> kindergarten. my students. my teacher. the school i am currently at. i went to a meeting for all student teachers in the school system today and i was excited, not freaked out, to apply for jobs/to have that option very soon. it was so affirming, since i have always been half in/half out in terms of teaching. i prayed this semester would confirm whether that is what i am supposed to do for the next phase of life or not. so far it is. lessons start next week!.... we will see how i feel then.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-36519444718385367262011-08-18T12:40:00.000-07:002011-08-18T12:40:27.712-07:00CHAOSI have many conflicting emotions as I write this. My heart is filled with love for friends that are all over the eastern part of the US. I spent 10 weeks at Discipleship Focus (DFo) immersed in a community of college-aged people. We worked together, lived together, and played together (cheesy) as we all went through an in-depth study about the truths of God. I am saddened that we are all over the country now and not together in Pigeon Forge. I am also sad that I will not be going back to JMU this year and that I am not living in the Graffiti House. After DFo, a few friends and I travelled around Tennessee to visit new cities and friends. We visited college houses and it hit me that I won't be in a college house this coming year. It is weird that I will still be doing college things, but I won't be in Harrisonburg. I am fearful and overwhelmed as I face the reality that student teaching begins in 10 days and I have yet to enroll thanks to my status as a non-degree seeking student. My car ride home from Pigeon Forge last night lasted 12 hours, even though Kevin and I tried our hardest to shave minutes off of our ETA. Our quick pit stop in Newport News lasted 2 hours since my tired popped which actually ended up being a broken wheel (woo). This means an expensive repair, which I have no way of paying for and which I hate making my mom pay for. <div><br />
</div><div>Now comes the hope. I have grown! These events normally bog me down, especially at home where following the Lord can be hard for me to do. All this morning, When I start stressing out and preparing for a pity party, I am reminded that God is in control and I have searched for the blessings among my situations. In addition to the cost of repairing my vehicle, which is only mine for a few more days, I had a burden of school costs. Not being able to enroll yet, I had not heard about any financial aid. So earlier today I was (almost) stressing about that other added cost. I got a scholarship that covers a little over half of my tuition for this semester a few weeks ago, but I have no where near the $2000 extra I need. I checked ecampus, as I did a few times this summer, and under Financial Aid I have my scholarship and a grant for 2750! Where it came from I have no idea and when I was supposed to accept it I have no idea, but it is accepted and it is for the 2011-2012 school year. SO great. I had a few tears in my eyes as I also received another congratulatory letter today from the College of Education for my scholarship. It must have been God's way of reminding me that he provides for those who believe in Him. The cost to repair my car is a bit large, but mom was okay with it and looked at the positives of it. SO thankful she has a glass half full mentality.</div><div><br />
</div><div>This weekend we celebrate Cath turning 50 and I cannot wait. She has a very eventful weekend ahead of her and all I can hope for is that she feels loved. I am back home, so look forward to more blog processing and updates on life.<br />
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</div></div>Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-52614788541816552942011-05-31T20:49:00.000-07:002011-05-31T20:49:13.587-07:00Look forward to...hearing all about my adventures with kindergarteners August 29 to October 21 and 2nd graders October 24 to December 15. These are my student teaching placements! I will be at two different schools, both within ten minutes from my house in opposite directions. I also will be working with a more diverse population of students, which I am highly stoked about! PRAY that both of my teachers are superb educators. I am so glad I found out before Tennessee.<br />
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Speaking of which, I cannot wait. I am so bored and have relaxed quite enough, so I anxiously await Saturday afternoon when I will be on my way. Until then I will be distracted by packing, writing grad letters, and helping plan a bachelor/ette party and bridal luncheon for a most deserving bride, SKJ, soon to be SKR!Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-49912861562858022002011-05-24T20:30:00.000-07:002011-05-24T20:30:13.458-07:00Tornados of doomWhat is up with the weather?!? Today I woke up super early to take a test which is required for my teaching license. The weather man on the radio says that today will be hot, so "hopefully your AC works." That is all. I took the test which lasted about 3 hours, went to lunch with my stepsister, and even laid out in the hot, yet sunny day. I then go home, get my mom, and drive to the mall where we are to meet my cousin to see Bridesmaids (sooooooo funny, yet typical chick flick); it is still sunny. As soon as we get to the mall (10-15 mins away), the sky is dark gray and there are huge gusts of wind. I parked the car in the closest parking spot I could find, "not near trees" my mom says. We run inside, with a little extra pep in our step thanks to the wind, which pushed us along. The likes flickered on and off as we walked around the mall. I found solace at a kiosk where a salesman straightened my unruly, dirty hair. He then presumed to sell my mother a top notch hair straightener (early birthday present). The storm finally subsided after an hour or so and, after wasting time in the mall for two hours, we were able to go to the movies- SURPRISE! It was sunny again!<br />
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Now the wind rages on........... it is back?<br />
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I thought I lived in hurricane alley, not tornado alley!?<br />
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Also, I am unlike my friend Isaac Hulvey, who just recently wrote about storm chasing and how he loves storms. I DO NOT!Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-54002146766652663852011-05-09T14:40:00.000-07:002011-05-09T14:40:40.363-07:00GradDivasI love my housemates so much and I have thoroughly enjoyed the past two years living with them. I should be a wreck right now as I am packing up my things to move out at the end of the week, but I am emotionless. I have no emotions. I had no emotions Saturday after I graduated nor during any point that I was hanging out with friends for the 'last' time. There is hope, I shed a little tear out of gratefulness for my mom and all she has done for me AND I had a huddle cryfest with Jenna and Barefoot, my teammates at Spotswood from the beginning. I know I will be desperately wanting this time back in September, so I am trying to take it in and enjoy it as much as possible, but why do I have no emotions?<br />
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Contentment v. Numbness... which is it? I know which one I need to be praying for.<br />
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Some friends and a best friend (KKB) departed for Israel today. Another best friend departed for Peru. None of which include yet another best friend who is my world travelling, adventurous influence. My friends are so worldly. <br />
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Back to packing.<br />
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-College GradSwilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-61237964575554870722011-04-25T13:54:00.000-07:002011-04-25T13:54:34.053-07:00hoVBmeI went home this past weekend, very hesitant to do so. My motivations were to see and hold my one month old niece, Ellie Kaye and to have my car fixed. Nothing else. I really wanted to be at JMU as one of the final weekends and to spend Easter here, since I love Eastside and have no home church. On my drive home I was stressed about work that needed to get done and friends + family I needed to see. I was not excited.<br />
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<b style="color: orange;">God is so good!</b><br />
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<span style="color: black;">He provided for me in multiple ways this weekend. I </span>had all day Friday to do work free from distractions since I had the whole house to myself. I only saw family, which I really needed. Cath and I spent alot of quality time together, at the expense of my sister working- the only downfall is I did not see her, but Praise the Lord she is working! Ellie Kaye is a beautiful gem. I even managed to get a haircut. My car did not get fixed on account of a family emergency, but it has not broken yet so somebody is watching out for me.<br />
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Catherine M. Wilson is so wonderful and I love her to pieces. It was so good to reconnect and to really catch up. Mama and I had some good times. One fun story- I locked my keys in the car after sunrise service, so three firemen in an abnormally large fire truck unlocked the door for us. Happy Easter mother! <br />
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Here is to 12 days 'til graduation & 8 pages, 2 sources, and 3 days 'til my final project is due. <b style="color: #741b47;">MUST THROW DOWN THIS WEEKEND!!!!!</b>Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-25930965599505385192011-04-12T17:38:00.000-07:002011-04-12T17:38:53.456-07:0025 days...I was asked today if I am sad that I am graduating. I could not give a yes or no answer. It has all gone by in a blur and the past few weeks have especially. Spring break was so epic, but I have been bogged down by assignments and other adventures that I have almost forgotten about it... HOW COULD I!?<br />
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Anyway, I am currently bogged down by a large final project for my capstone class in IDLS and I have yet to start even though it is due in two weeks. It goes back to the idea that the past few weeks/months have been a blur and the due date has snuck up on me. The weather makes me think it is still February. Sarah, wake up! It is April and you graduate in 3ish weeks!<br />
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I need to continue praying that I will trust the Lord with these last few weeks. That I will accomplish all the 'lasts' He has for me. Maybe I have been which is why it has all gone by in such a blur? I do normally harbor on things in the past, maybe I have finally learned the art of living in the present, for taking only 'my daily bread' and that is why I have not craved SB2k11 to be back. Hmm...Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7448476334832370109.post-90491971499436068962011-04-09T20:34:00.000-07:002011-04-09T21:00:00.149-07:00The First.I have been wanting to create one of these for a little while now. I planned on waiting until August when I would be home, settled, and depressed about being so far from the people I have shared my everyday life with for the past four years. I decided that it would be great to be able to reflect on this final month then so I had better start now. Here I am, as I joyfully listen to Mumford & Sons Pandora Radio station.<br />
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Last night I gave my senior reflection at leadership, which is a weekly meeting with the Young Life ministry I am involved in here in Harrisonburg. SO ENCOURAGING! I have struggled with how large the community of YL leaders is here, but last night affirmed how much I appreciate the people I have had the pleasure of leading alongside these years. I will share what I shared here, mostly for myself to reflect on, but I hope you will gain some wisdom from it.<br />
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<ul><li>Luke 11:1-4 & Matthew 6:9-13- blueprint for prayer</li>
<li>don't be afraid to fall in love with the Lord</li>
<ul><li>read Psalms, spend time in His word to the point where you <u>yearn</u> to be with Him</li>
<li>pray through the song when singing and DON'T WORRY ABOUT ANYONE AROUND YOU</li>
</ul></ul><ul><li>don't forget where you came from <a href="http://no--mod3rnr0m4nce.xanga.com/">(http://no--mod3rnr0m4nce.xanga.com/</a>, <a href="http://one-lonely-girl.xanga.com/">http://one-lonely-girl.xanga.com/</a>, <a href="http://sarshxxxakaxxxsarah.xanga.com/">http://sarshxxxakaxxxsarah.xanga.com/</a>)</li>
<ul><li>remind yourself so you will thank the Lord for how far He has brought you</li>
</ul></ul><ul><li>KEEP GOING!</li>
<ul><li>don't give in to insecurities ("comparison is the thief of all joy")</li>
<li>don't quit- kids need you, learn so much about the Lord in the process</li>
<li>find PEACE in Christ (John 16:33)</li>
<li>Nehemiah 8:10, "joy is not bound by your circumstances"-Oswald Chambers</li>
<li>find your niche and run with it!</li>
</ul></ul><ul><li>TEAM means work in giftzone</li>
<ul><li>hang out and love each other, you are family!</li>
</ul></ul><ul><li>trust God and cling to truth</li>
<ul><li>Proverbs 3:5-6</li>
<li>Jeremiah 17:7-8</li>
<li>United Pursuit Band "Nothing I Hold Onto"</li>
</ul></ul><ul><li>"Be the first to hit the dance floor."-Dove chocolate wrapper</li>
<ul><li>don't be afraid to dance whenever and wherever</li>
</ul></ul>At the end we always encourage. I am honest and truthful. The funniest person Jenna has ever met. I am myself as a leader. I am loyal. I am a workhorse who has joyfully worked behind the scenes. Funny stories were shared and a few tears were shed. There was one instance of incredible thanksgiving. Some I knew, some felt good to be recognized for, and some were surprising and such sweet revelations. Thank you, I felt so loved and appreciated.<br />
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Reap some goods out of that. I will be back.Swilshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06691061199058230912noreply@blogger.com2