Deeper than the Surface

THANKSgiving Day 30
 I am thankful for whoever gave me the idea to post/blog about what I am thankful for during the month of November. There are so many people who say that Thanksgiving is a skipped over holiday, but it really isn't for me. I love to give thanks, and I love to share what I am thankful for everyday. I appreciate the opportunity to reflect everyday on what I am thankful for, which sometimes is a little bit more difficult to come up with. On those days I have to look deeper than the surface, which is where true thankfulness lies.

I cannot end this month of THANKSgiving without giving thanks to the One who is the giver of all things: my Savior Jesus Christ. As I look back over my list I see His hand in everything on my list. He has blessed me beyond comparison. I am forever grateful for His love and mercy. I am thankful that He knows me better than I know myself, and blesses me accordingly.
 I am thankful to have a knowledge of my Savior, and for the opportunity that I had to serve as a missionary and share that message with others. The time that I spent with my brothers and sisters in the South was amazing, and life changing on so many levels. I came to better know my Savior while I was there. He isn't just some magical being, but rather He is a person who knows us and cares about us.
 I know that I have a Father in Heaven who has a plan for each of us, and that He wants each of us to return to him. His plan isn't always easy, but it will always be worth it. Through His plan we can live eternally with our families. How awesome is that?!
 I am thankful to have the guidance of the Holy Spirit as I go through my life. I have been guided and directed, comforted and lifted so many times, and I am very grateful for that.
 I am thankful for this holiday season, and the opportunity that it gives us all to reflect on the true meaning of the season, regardless of our individual religious beliefs. As Christians we are all able to reflect on the birth of the Divine Child. How blessed we are that He came to the earth on that silent night so many years ago. I am thankful for the opportunity we have to sing and praise this season! I am thankful for Christmas lights, which light up not only our trees and homes, but also our hearts. The lights and songs guide our hearts back to Him, to the best gift that any of us have ever received. And for that gift, we all give thanks.

Pocketfuls of Candy

THANKSgiving Day 29
 Today I am thankful for the spirit of giving. It's fun to give to others, in any way. Tonight my mom and I went to the light parade in my hometown. It was 16 minutes of fun and laughter, and chasing down the candy that the kids on one of the floats decided that we needed. My mom and I laughed as we gathered it all up, chasing down the random bits and pieces. The best part was once we had picked it all up-we gave it to the kids next to us. The dad just smiled and laughed as I kept pulling handfuls of candy out of my pocket, and we even ended up chasing them down to give them more. It's little moments like this that make me love the holiday season so much, to see the happiness that comes into someone's eyes through the act of giving or receiving. I am thankful that tonight I was able to be part of the giving end.

Old TV Shows and Good Times!

THANKSgiving Day 28
Today I am thankful to get to spend time with my parents. They are my anchor, my home base. Being with them is the re-charge that I need from time to time. We don't have to do anything big and fancy-enjoying leftover Thanksgiving dinner and watching the Andy Griffith Show is just fine by me! Just being with them is enough. I know that they care about me and love me, which is evidenced in the little things: Mom makes sure to have my favorite juice in the fridge so that I don't go thirsty. Dad looks up cars on the internet for me. I walk out to the car to go somewhere with them to discover that I am driving. They ask about work. They ask about my dating life. They tease me, and I tease them. I just love being with them! Thanks for charging me up, Mom and Dad!

Taking the path less traveled

THANKSgiving Day 27
 Here it is, Thanksgiving Day. The ultimate day of THANKS. This day begs the question, "what are you thankful for?" I have thought of so many different things today that I'm thankful for, many of whch have ended up here on the blog.  The thing that stands out today is that I am thankful for my life path. 10 years ago as I was getting ready to graduate from high school I never imagined that this is where I would be. 10 years ago being a teacher wasn't even on my radar! How happy I am that my life took me on the path that led to where I am now. I feel like I've meandered through life, and I have had some amazing experiences and have met the most amazing people along the way. I am thankful for who I am today, and where I am. I am so happy and so in love with my life. I'm thankful that God knows me better than I know myself, and that He has guided me along this path. Life is awesome, and I wouldn't trade any part of it!

My Banditry of Chickadees

THANKSgiving Day 26
 Today's post is going to be a little long, so don't feel obligated to read it all. One of the things that I am most thankful for is my job, and the banditry of chickadees that comes with it. (I had to Google what to call a group of chickadees, and now I know!) They make my life so much better, and fill my heart in so many ways! This post is dedicated to them, and they are each going to get their time in the spotlight!

Frozen
There are so many kids obsessed with Frozen these days, and this girl is no different! She loves Disney movies, and can tell you about any Disney movie you ask her about.  She always has a smile on her face, and loves to gives hugs. She works so hard and is so eager to please. She makes my heart so happy!

My Mouse
This particular chickadee is quiet as a mouse, but she has a heart and personality that pull you in. It's impossible not to love her! She is always willing to help out, whether it's me or another student. She worries about the other students, and wants to make sure that everyone is okay. She has a heart of gold. I love her so much!

Tots
This kid makes me laugh all the time! He tells the funniest jokes, and always has a smile on his face. He also shares his tater tots with me every Tuesday! How did I get to be so lucky? He is an awesome artist, and is so good with numbers. Seeing his happy face every morning makes me so happy, and I am so glad that he is in my class!

Penguin Classics
This girl-what can I say about her? She showers me with love everyday. She works so hard everyday to overcome her challenges, and is an inspiration. She works so hard to make sure that everyone has a friend, and that people get the things they need (for example, she brings me my tots!) She is an amazing artist, and can draw just about anything she puts her mind to. (Including a class of goats!) She makes my days so great!

Sk8rBoy
Don't tell anyone that I told you this, but this kid has a HUGE heart! He tries to play it cool, but I've seen through his tough-guy exterior to the sweet boy inside. I wish that I could give him a huge hug and tell him how awesome he is. He is sweet and funny, and so helpful. He has a mischievous side that I love. Life is better with him in it!

Sidekick
This chickadee can quite often be found attached to my side, quite literally. She is so loyal and tries so hard to let others see that. She spends a lot of time in her own little world, but when she comes out it is fantastic! She is so fun to be with! She is so warm and affectionate, and works to help others feel that as well.

Mr. Fix-It
I can't even begin to tell you how many times this kid has saved me, and taken my ego at the same time! He is so good at fixing things, which is how he saves me. He has figured out so many things in my classroom. He even taught me how to catch! He was a great coach and even critiqued my technique, which ultimately is what enabled me to catch! I love watching him learn and grow, and I am so proud of how far he has come!

Hipster
This chickadee is also one of my quiet ones. She is so unassuming, and just goes about doing her thing. She works so hard, and has so many big dreams. She has an awesome sense of style. I love watching her mind work, especially when I see the light click as things make sense. She is a bright star in my life.

Sporty
This girl makes my heart so happy! She is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet, and she goes about it in such a quiet way. She doesn't ask for much, but is always so willing to give. She is a fantastic friend, and reaches out when she sees others struggling. She always makes sure to say hi or good morning to me. She is so awesome! I am lucky to know her.

Comics
Just thinking about this chickadee makes my heart smile. He likes to find things to gross me out or make me laugh, which is a lot of fun! He is quiet, kind, and diligent. He never asks for anything, and is so thankful for all that he receives. I love getting to spend time with this chickadee everyday!

 Mini-Me
This chickadee is so much like me that it's a little crazy! Sometimes when I talk to her I feel like I am looking in the mirror, and often the things that I tell her are what I need to hear as well. She is such a tenderheart and sweet spirit. She is uplifting and so willing to share her love. Anytime she sees that I am feeling low she asks if I need a hug, which is often just what I need. I am so grateful for her willingness to share her heart with me!

Spunky
Often times the best fireworks come in the smallest packages, and they give the biggest boom. This is so true with this chickadee! She may be small, but she is full of spunk! She seems quiet and shy at first, but for those of us who know her, we know that she is anything but shy or quiet! She shares her opinions with those around her, and she doesn't mind who knows them. She can be a bit of a wild card, and I love it!

Fashionista
If there is one thing that I can count on from this chickadee it is that she will comment on my clothes. Some days I get her stamp of approval, some days I get a critique. Either way I love it, and it's our routine. This girl is full of pizazz,  and she greets life with a mischievous smile. She and I love to tease one another. I love it!

The Hunter
This kid, I don't even know what to say about him. Last year he discovered that it is easy (and quite fun) to tease me, and that is our tradition. He knows how to make me laugh, and he can tell when I need it the most. We share a special bond, and I think that there are days when one of us is the glue that holds the other together. Also, let it be noted that the teasing goes both ways. He makes me crazy, but it's what keeps me going! I look forward to each day's adventure with him.


There you have it, my banditry of chickadees all in one place. Each one of them has won my heart over a million times. I look forward to spending each day with them!  I know that it was just yesterday that I saw them, but I miss them so much! I hope that they each have a fantastic Thanksgiving, and know that I am thankful for each one of them.

Support

THANKSgiving Day 25
Today I am thankful for all of the support that I have with my job, especially the aides whom I work with each day. They are all so amazing at their jobs, and they do so many things without me even needing to ask them. I wouldn't be able to do my job if they weren't there to help me everyday. I also appreciate that they are willing to listen to my craziness and let me bounce ideas off of them. So thank you to Becky, Janice, Koke, and Brent. You four amazing people make the days run so smoothly!

Talking to Strangers

THANKSgiving Day 24
Today I am thankful for the random kindness of strangers. I was at Joanne's today looking at some yarn, and I needed another opinion. So I asked the woman standing in the same aisle as me. She had to take a phone call, but as soon as she finished we started chatting again, and she gave me a vote of confidence in my project. We had a nice visit and went our separate ways. Imagine my surprise when she ended up behind me in the checkout lane. We talked about our various projects, and she even clued me in to some big sales that are coming up at Joanne's this week. It's kinda weird, but I like talking to strangers and making connections. I will probably never see that woman again, but for a few minutes today we were friends and sharing ideas and warm feelings. I am grateful for the kindness of strangers.

An extra day of teaching

THANKSgiving Day 23
 Today I am thankful for my calling as a Ward Missionary, which gives me the opportunity to teach the Gospel Principles class in my ward. Hands down, this is my favorite calling. It combines the things that I love most: teaching, and the basics of the gospel. I had this calling for 2+ years right after my mission, and I loved every minute of it! Since then I have been in other callings, and it just didn't have the same fulfillment for me as my teaching calling. A few weeks ago I was asked to become one of the regular teachers for Gospel Principles, and it sent my spirit soaring! I feel like I'm flying again! I teach 5 days a week, and you would think that I would enjoy the break, but that's just not true. I live for teaching! I am grateful to have my testimony strengthened each time I teach and participate in this class. It is such a rewarding experience, and I get to meet and learn from some really amazing people. I am truly blessed.

Magic Machines

THANKSgiving Day 22
 Today I am thankful for the modern conveniences that I very much enjoy in my everyday life. Washers and dryers, heater, water heater, lights, toaster, refrigerator...and the list goes on and on! I love that I can sleep in comfy temperatures. I really enjoy my hot showers. I love putting my clothes into the magic machines that make them clean and dry. I am very blessed to live in this time where I have so much to make my life nice. I hope to never take any of it for granted.

Banging Doors

Day 21
 Today I am soooo grateful for my roommate, Anna. She and I have had a lot of fun these past months as we've ventured out into the world, a little more on our own than before. We've enjoyed a lot of laughs along the way, and I know that I have learned a lot from her.
 Today the thing that I am most grateful for about her is the fact that she woke me up today. I heard the bathroom door close very loudly, and wondered why Anna would be so loud in the middle of the night. I pulled out my phone to see how much longer I had before the alarm went off, and I discovered that it was 6:51. I need to leave no later than 7:04 to get to work on-time. In a panic I jumped out of bed and started running like cray to get ready. She was even kind enough to give me full access to the bathroom! Who knows what time I would've woken up if it wasn't for her!
 This is only one of many reasons that I am grateful for Anna. We have a good time together, and she has taught me many new skills, especially how to do things for myself. We have created some roommate traditions, and we have excellent roommate bonding time (binge watching TV shows...what could be better?!). For these and so many other reasons I am grateful to have Anna as my friend and my roommate!

Bonus Brother

THANKSgiving Day 20
 In keeping with my family theme these past few days, today I am thankful for my bonus brother, Nic. He is one excellent man. He works so hard for his family. But here's the deal-everyone is family to him. He so willingly serves so many people. He has a huge heart, and is always willing to jump in and get his hands dirty to make someone's life a little easier. He will go to bat for you, fight for you, or cheer for you-whatever you need. I am lucky to get to have him as part of my family tree. Love you, Nic!

Bouns Sister

THANKSgiving Day 19
Today I am thankful for my bonus sister, also known as my sister-in-law, Felicia. I knew that we were kindred spirits when we were both quoting from the same awesome movie. It was an epic moment when we had a "name that movie!" "No, you name that movie!" battle, and realized that we both knew the movie. I love getting to spend time with Felicia, and I hate that we don't get to do it anymore. (Dang work and living far away from each other!) Felicia is a friend I always know that I can count on. She's my second sister, and the perfect addition to the family. I don't remember what life was like pre-Felicia, which is okay because life with her is pretty fantastic! Thank you, Felicia, for being an awesome woman. You give me strength and courage. Love you!

Looking Up

THANKSgiving Day 18
Today I want to express thanks for my little brother. He is one amazing man, and I am so proud of him! I remember the first time that I looked up to him-literally. We were standing in the kitchen and he was taller than me. I insisted, like any good big sister, that he take his shoes off when standing next to me so that he wouldn't be taller than me. He informed me that he was not wearing any shoes, and a look at his feet confirmed it-my little brother had suddenly become taller than me, and I had to look up to him when we talked. Since then I have looked up to him in ways that he probably doesn't even know. He has been my hero and my champion. He quietly does his thing everyday and doesn't complain about it. He works hard to provide for his family. He is loving, kind, and sweet to his wife and daughter. He is hold-your-sides-and-laugh-until-you-cry funny. He is there when you need him. He is strong and humble. He shows Christlike love and service. He is just amazing, and I love him. Recently he got a promotion at work. When I found out I may have cried a little for him: I was so happy and so proud of him. If anyone deserved it, it was him. He is proving himself as a great man every single day, and others are starting to notice how great he really is. I've seen it there for a long time, and it was exciting to know that others were seeing it as well. And so today I give thanks that I get to look up to my little brother. He is one amazing person! Jason, you're the best brother a girl could ask for!

"I'm going to Knitting Club!"

THANKSgiving Day 17
 Today I am thankful for the opportunity to learn and develop new skills, and for the sense of accomplishment that it brings. Over the summer my sister introduced me to knitting, and now I'm really getting into it. I decided to make scarves for a few of my chickadees, so I've been knitting like a fiend! On Thursday I went to Knitting Club and re-learned how to knit, and I haven't stopped since. Each night it's fun to look at how long my project is getting, and to know (and hope!) that very soon it will actually be a scarf! I've been picking up quite a few new homemaking type skills recently, and it's been fun! Each project that I've worked on has been a labor of love, and it's been special for me to make these things.

Mothers and Daughters

THANKSgiving Day 16
 Today I want to give thanks for a very special lady in my life-my mother. I was realizing the other day that since I moved out we don't get to have our mother-daughter dates like we used to. I could always count on my mom to be my movie buddy! I miss getting to plan evenings together! I miss arguing about what to have for dinner on Saturday nights when dad is working and neither of us wants what the other is willing to cook. It sounds silly, but it was our thing. I love my mom for all of the crazy traditions that the two of us have! I also love her love for life. She and her sister are always going off on adventures, and I love that. She is setting a great example for me and my sister to follow. I also love that my mom has a big heart. We are getting into the season where she really gets to show it. She likes making goodies and treats for people, so she thrives this time of year! And even in the midst of her holiday cooking, baking, and crafting, she is still willing to help me when my projects go awry. My mom has a heart of gold, and I am grateful that she has passed her love of people on to me. I am so thankful to know that my mom is there for me, and always willing to listen and offer advice. I might not always take it, but it wouldn't be a mother/daughter relationship otherwise, right? :) Mom, you are one amazing woman and I am forever grateful to call you mine! I love you!

Boys and Girls

THANKSgiving Day 15
 Today I am thankful for three sweet boys who have stolen my heart, and two beautiful girls who keep me tied around their fingers. Being a Nanny (aka Aunt) is the BEST job that I have ever had. Hands down. I love hearing my name come from those little mouths, and the hugs and kisses that generally come after. I love the games we get to play, and the fun that we have. Quick confession-I am writing this post-day 15, but as I reflected on what I wanted to write last night I knew that this was it. It's been a while since I've had a sleepover with my nephews, so we planned one for last night. As we were getting the boys ready for bed Sam kept asking me to sleep next to him, and told me that he would stay awake until I came to bed. How is a person supposed to say no to such sweet requests? (Let it be noted that he was using his best puppy-dog eyes and voice...) I crawled into bed and the next thing I know Sam is cuddled up next to me, and fell asleep almost instantly. I live for times like these when I can be with these kids. Cole and I were the last two to wake up this morning, and before we went out for breakfast we had a tickle fight. Later I was ambushed by the older two boys, and more tickling ensued. Today I got to cuddle with Mark when he woke up and was confused about what was going on. Lulu and I have had fun smiling and cooing at each other for the past couple of days. Erika has a smile that is contagious, and I love how she loves life! And cats. And dogs. She is seriously adorable when she's chasing the cat or kissing the dog.
I am one blessed and thankful person to have these amazing tiny humans in my life! I love being their Nanny!

Walk like a...snowman!

THANKSgiving Day 14
 I noticed in some posts from years previous that I had labeled my posts each day like I did above, and I want to get back to that. It's a good reminder that THANKS is for GIVING. And it reminds me of my mission, so double reason to put it back up there!
Today I am thankful for the energy of teenagers, and the love for life that my students have. The past two days they have been so hyper and crazy that I've resorted to taking them outside during 7th period as a means to reign them in a little. It has been so much fun to watch them run and play, and to have them beg me to join them. On Thursday I ran with them a little, and couldn't help but smile as I started to run backwards and saw my banditry of chickadees chasing after me. (I may have had the M&Ms, but we can pretend they just really wanted me!) Today we played a mix-up of Simon Says and Red Light/Green Light. It was fun to see their willingness to play along with my commands and walk like zombies, float like leaves, or walk like a snowman. This is the kind of energy that they give me every day, and I love it! I feed off their energy-it is what keeps me going everyday. I am so thankful that I get to be part of that energy everyday!

You've got to pray just to make it today!

Day 13
Today I am thankful for the power of prayer, and for those who remind me of it. I was anticipating that today was going to be a terrible day, but after a conversation about the power of prayer I spent a little more time praying about it and a little less time worrying about it. Guess what-it was a good day! God loves us an hears our prayers. The things that matter to us matter to Him. He knows our hearts and our intentions. He knows what we need to hear and when we need to hear it. He can help others when we are powerless. Prayer can be our source of strength, and the tether that holds us tight when we feel like we're going to lose our grip at any moment. Prayer is the answer. I am grateful for that gentle reminder again in my life.

If I had to hide a body...

Day 12
 Today I am thankful to have a "person" in my life. For those of you who don't get the reference, let me give you a little background. I first heard this phrase on Grey's Anatomy. Christina and Meredith refer to each other as their "person," or the one you would call to help you hide a body. You can always count on this person, and it's like they are an appendage to you and not just another person. My "person" is my sister. (Please let it be noted, I am not in need of hiding any bodies...) Jolene gets me. And better yet, she accepts me. Just tonight we were talking about how this wasn't always so, and how we're both grateful for how far we've come over the years. Jolene is my best friend and confidant, and just being with her makes me whole. When we're together we can finish each other's...sandwiches. (Sorry, I couldn't resist!) I love that when I'm with Jolene I can laugh until I cry, drool all over (that was some good caramel!), try new things, cry over sappy things, cry over sad things, and just pour out my entire soul. Jolene and I are so similar in many ways, but also very different. She is the yin to my yang.
And for the record, I would call her if there was a body that needed to be hid! I love you, sister!

A little girl's first hero

Day 11
 I feel that I have a similar post each year on this day, but I just can't help it! Today's thankfulness is dedicated to my father. Many little girls look up to their fathers and consider them to be heroes. We imagine that our dads have superpowers that make them so much more special than any other dad out there. I was, and am, no exception to this rule. I have observed many such superpowers in my own father. Over the years I have come to learn that what I once saw as magical powers were a good work ethic and a determination to provide for his family. There is one magical superpower that my dad has that I cannot explain, which is his ability to read me and talk to my soul. It's pretty common knowledge that what my dad says holds a lot of weight with me. Somehow he always knows the right things to say, which I really appreciate.
 I love that my dad has instilled in me a sense of patriotism and a love for my country. I cannot participate in patriotic programs without becoming a little teary eyed, thinking about the great love that my dad has for his country. He is a superhero who risked his life to fight in an unpopular war, which only furthered his deep respect and love for his country. This is one of my favorite things about my dad.
There are so many other things that I could write about,but I will stop here. The important thing is that I am thankful for my dad each and everyday, and I love him so much!
Dad-thank you for all that you do for me! I can't ever fully express the depth of my gratitude and love, but hope that you know how I feel. I love you!

"You're my new BFF!"

Day 10
I had the opportunity this afternoon to attend a meeting of other Cluster teachers in my district. I remembered from last year that it had been a meeting that I appreciated, but nothing over the top. Today was ah-mazing! Now that I have a year under my belt as a teacher I am figuring out what questions I should be asking, and realizing more and more what I don't know. At the meeting today I got to ask my questions and have them answered by people who really know the answers. I mean, these people are in my same situation! We were grouped according to class type, so I was literally bumping elbows with people who do what I do every single day. I didn't have to explain how things work in my room because they get it. Explicitly. Today was the best meeting that I have been to all year! They asked at the end how helpful we thought the meeting was, how often we should have them, and then excused us to leave. Half an hour later we were still there! I was so grateful for the opportunity that I had to meet the other two teachers who share my same class (there were three of us from the middle school setting, and a good handful of elementary teachers) and we were able to exchange information. They showed me things that I didn't know about, and brought so much clarity to me! I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and even better, I know that I am not alone in the world. There are people who are just an email or phone call away who really understand what my classroom is like. They share the same hopes, fears, and desires for their students. At one point I told my new friends that I just wanted to hug them and that they were my new BFFs. To sum it up, today I am thankful for the meeting that I attended, and for the opportunity that I had to meet my counterparts. It's amazing how much not feeling alone in the world can make a difference. I am thankful for the support that I receive as a teacher, and that my district is continually searching for ways to help us become the best teachers that we can be. Ahhh, I loved today!

We are family!

Day 9
 I am so thankful for my family! Today I had the opportunity to spend some time with my mom's side of the family, and my Uncle Jake is here visiting. Ever since I was a little girl I have looked up to him and he has always held a special place in my heart. (If we're being honest, when I was little I thought that I would marry him someday!) Getting to spend time with my family is the best. I love listening to my mom and Aunt Tina recount their crazy adventures, and I love to see the bond that they have. It's fun to hear the stories about my grandparents, or just to listen to everyone talk about "the good ol' days..." My favorite thing to do at family parties is to just sit back and listen, which is what I got to do tonight. I love family time, and I love my family!

Weekends are like Bookends

Day 8
 Weekends are like bookends: the purpose of a bookend (besides being decorative) is to hold your books upright, and offer some support to books struggling to stay upright on their own. Weekends do the same thing for me. They hold me steady and upright so that I can get through the week.
 I love my job and I pour every ounce of myself into it. By Friday I am wiped out, and I need a chance to recharge. For that reason I am so thankful for weekends! Today I got to sleep in and take it easy. I've done some reading, caught up on my laundry (along with my favorite TV shows) and got to watch a favorite classic movie with my roomie. My batteries are beginning to feel recharged, and tomorrow's Sabbath day worship with be the final boost that I need to get me ready for another week. I am so thankful for the support of my bookend-weekends!

"I just can't be quiet..."

Day 7
 I am thankful for a young man whom I shall refer to as "Tim." Tim is currently in 8th grade. He had some classes with my kiddos last year, and a couple this year. I have a girl who has a difficult time going to her classes sometimes. On those difficult days I end up taking her to her classes, and it is a struggle to get her to go in. One time I was luring my chickadee in by going into the room myself and beckoning to her to join me. She eventually came in, but would not go to her desk. Tim came over and started talking to her, asking her how her day was going and offering to take her to her desk. He was being so sweet with my girl! This wasn't the first time that Tim has been so sweet with her, and he is always so genuine with her.

 On Friday we were having another difficult time going to class. I was standing in the doorway of the classroom with my chickadee when Tim looked up and saw us. He immediately came over and put his arm through my chickadee's arm to take her into class. She went with him and went to her seat. my heart was warmed by the knowledge that someone was there to look out for my chickadees.

 I saw Tim between classes later that day and stopped to talk to him and thank him for his kindness. He related to me that he has heard people making fun of my chickadees, and that he can't stand it. Tim wants to stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves. He said that last year he was bullied and teased a lot, and "I just can't be quiet when I hear it happening to someone else." It broke my heart to see the tears in his eyes as he related this to me. Tim is such an amazing kid, and he is taking on such a big role! I am so thankful for his willingness to stand up for students who can't do it themselves. He is a voice of kindness when others would poke fun. I know that he is not alone, and that everyday there are students just like him who are standing up for what is right. I am thankful for each of those people! To Tim, thank you for taking one worry off my mind. It is hard to send my chickadees out into the world, but knowing that you are there to help them makes it a little easier. Tim and I didn't get to chat long yesterday, and we both left the conversation a little teary-eyed. This young man has made such an impression on my heart! Thank you Tim, for not being quiet and instead choosing to be the voice! You are awesome!

Are you laughing at me or with me?

Day 6
Today I am thankful for a good sense of humor. Life can be pretty crazy sometimes, and I love to see the humor in it. I'll be the first to admit that I don't always find the humor in the situation right at first, and I don't mind having it pointed out to me. I am thankful for the opportunity to laugh, smile, and generally have a good time. I also love when I find people who have a similar humor-oh the fun that is to be had then! Laughter truly is one of the best medicines! My chickadees have me laughing everyday, which is part of why I love them so much!

Tomorrow

Day 5
 Today was a bit of a rough day, to put it mildly. At one point I was sitting at my desk and wondering what I would blog about tonight, what was there to be thankful for from today? The thought carried over to the drive home. That was when it hit me: today I am thankful for tomorrow. To quote one of my favorite people, "Tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet." Tomorrow is fresh, new. Tomorrow is not a reflection of today-it stands alone. Today wasn't the best day ever, but tomorrow could be! That is why I am thankful for tomorrow! "Just thinkin' about tomorrow clears away the cobwebs and the sorrow..." I am thankful for the lessons of today, and the opportunity to use them tomorrow.

Bedspreads and Thermostats

Day 3
I am thankful for a comfy bed at the end of the day. I know that I am blessed to have a bed and blankets when so many do not. It's a little thing, but I don't think that I've ever acknowledged my bed for the true gift that it is!


Day 4
Today I am thankful for warmth. Every morning I get to brave the elements as I wait on busses with my kiddos. 15-20 minutes isn't long, but it can be super chilly! It's so nice to go into the warmth of the building. I also enjoy that cozy feeling when your car heater finally kicks in (4 blocks before you get to work!), towels fresh from the drier, sweaters, scarves, blankets wrapped tightly around you... The warmth is such a great thing that I am thankful for!

What's in a home?

Day 2
 Home is a special word that conveys more than walls and a roof. A home is where your heart gets filled. Home is where you find love and laughter. You can be yourself at home, and the people there love you regardless. At home you can lift and strengthen others, or be lifted and strengthened yourself. Home smells like baked goodness. Home can be more than one place, and with multiple people. What matters is the feeling there. Today I am thankful for home, and more specifically, the place where I come from. It's always so nice to get to spend some time at home!

Cheerleaders

November has descended upon us, and with it comes one of my favorite traditions:30 Days of THANKSgiving. I really enjoy the opportunity to really think about what I am grateful for, and to share it with you!

Day 1
I am thankful today for my cheerleaders. I participated in a 5k race this morning and I had the three cutest little boys there to cheer me on.  They came complete with hugs and signs that said "Go! Nanny! Go!" It was so cute and sweet to see them there cheering me on at the finish. The best part was watching Cole chase down his dropped sign. It was evident that he took his sign holding job quite seriously. I am grateful to have a family who are always there to support me and cheer me on.