I Believe

THANKSgiving Day 30
Today's day of thankfulness starts off with a throw-back to yesterday: I was on the phone with a friend from Alabama who asked me how my THANKSgiving had been. As soon as I heard that Southern drawl and intonation on the THANKS in THANKSgiving my heart was so full of warmth, love, and gratitude for my time in the South. I had the honor and privilege of serving as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Alabama Birmingham Mission. It was, at the time, the best 18 months of my life. I had the opportunity to talk about my Savior and my faith everyday, and to interact with the amazing God-fearing people of the South. I met some of the most inspirational people while serving in Alabama and Mississippi. My life is forever changed because of the people I met and the experiences that I had. I am grateful everyday for the chance that I had to serve as a missionary.
Right now there is a lot of controversy surrounding the gospel that I love. Many people are quick to judge and unwilling to accept the faith of those who believe. I am one who believes. I believe in a loving God who is merciful, loving, kind, and generous. I believe in a God who hears and answers prayers, and who wants the best for me. I believe in a God who loves us perfectly, despite our imperfections. I believe in a God who still speaks through a living prophet, to lead and guide His children. I believe in a God who is very much aware of our needs today, this hour, this minute, and who is in the details. I believe in God, and I know that He believes in me. He has made me who I am today, and He is shaping me into the person I am working to become. I am thankful to have these beliefs, and to have grown up in a gospel that I love.
I am thankful for the chance to spend 30 days sharing my thankfulness with you. It's been a fun adventure! And thanks to the South for putting the THANKS in my GIVING!

One of the Good Guys

THANKSgiving Day 29
 My nephews and their little sister have quite the awesome dad, my bro-in-law Nic. Nic is an all around great guy, the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back. He is always looking for ways to help others, to serve. From this great example his kids are learning how to be good people. I love how Nic has always accepted me as a little sister, even from the first time that we met. There have been so many times when Nic has gone to bat for me, and watched out to make sure that I was taken care of. He has worked on my appliances, come to my rescue with my car, and a million other things. I am so thankful to have him in my life!

My Brood

THANKSgiving Day 28
 There are few things in life that make me as happy as my nephews and nieces. They bring me such joy, and are always giving me a reason to smile! I love to hear them call me "Nanny," especially when they introduce me to other people as "Nanny." Since today is dedicated to them, I will tell you a little about each of them!
 Sam: Sam is such a character! He has the funniest things to say, and has ever since he was little! Sam loves anything and anyone with a screen! He's a tech junkie, and can probably use it better than most adults! He loves to have fun, laugh, have tickle fights, and to learn. I am surprised about the things that he knows! Sam is so smart and so loving!
Mark: Marky-Parky has such a big heart! He is a lover, but don't be mistaken, he is a fighter just as much! He loves anything outside, and is content to play in a sandbox for hours. He loves a good adventure! I love that he still enjoys a good snuggle! He's a brave kid, and is willing to try a lot of new things. Mark is a testimony-builder, and a heart-grabber!
Cole: Cole is tough on the outside, but soft on the inside. He's tough as nails, and actually, is the first of his brothers to get stitches! He loves trucks, stuffed animals, and milk. He is usually the first person to give me a kiss and a hug when I get to his house. He still likes to hold my hand (when it's his idea.) His laugh is infectious! He is a total sweetheart with a hardhat.
Lucy: Lucy is a spitfire, which she needs to be to keep up with her brothers! She knows that she rules the roost, but she is still willing to smile at her loyal subjects. I love when she finds a toy or book that she wants to play with/look at, and then will crawl over to sit on your lap while she does it. She has the sweetest, most contagious smile! I cannot resist her open arms!
Erika: Erika is a girl's girl! If it's girlie, she loves it! I love her energy and enthusiasm! Recently we went to a concert as a family, and I loved watching her sing, clap, and dance. She was so excited! That is how she is in general-she wears her excitement on her face, and you can't help but be excited with her! I love that she will let me cuddle with her. Erika is so loyal and sweet!
Marvy*: I don't know this little guy yet, as he won't be here for a few more months, but I am so exited to meet him! And I really hope that his daddy and mommy let me call him Marvy, even after they give him his real name! It will be fun to see how Erika likes her new little brother!

These are the kids who call me Nanny, and I couldn't be more happy than to have this awesome title, and to be in their lives!

Memory Maker

THANKSgiving Day 27
Today I am thankful for the chance to make memories with my mom and aunt. We went Black Friday shopping, which some of my other family members teased me about, but I didn't mind, because I wasn't in it for the deals or the shopping, I just wanted to spend time with my Mom and Aunt Tina. We had a fun day of laughing, shopping, and even deal finding. :) Days like these are the ones that make for the best memories. I relish any opportunity to make fun new memories with family and friends.

Extended Family

THANKSgiving Day 26
Happy Thanksgiving! The entire reason for a month of thankfulness! Today I wish to express my thanks for my extended family. My immediate family split and went different directions for Thanksgiving, so my Mom and I ended up at my aunt and uncle's house. It was great to spend the day with their family, and to know that they all accepted us with open arms. I am grateful to have an amazing extended family: aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. Some live near, some far, some I see more often than others, but it is always great to be with them!

A Turkey is Born!

THANKSgiving Day 25
6 years ago (yesterday) I became an aunt for the first time. I was on my mission, living in West Point, Mississippi. It had been a weird email day the day before-no one from my family had sent me an email! I found out later that it was because everyone was at the hospital waiting for Turkey to arrive. That night a friend in the mission filled me in to let me know that Turkey had been born. I was so excited, and loved all of the pictures that came over the next few weeks. I met Turkey, aka Sam, when he was 3 months old. It was so great to meet my first nephew and actually be able to hold him! Now he's 6 and such a big boy! Somehow I blinked and he grew up-it's crazy how that happens! I love that little Turkey with my whole heart, and then some! Sam is a reminder that prayers are heard and answered, and that God's timing is perfect! I am thankful for that knowledge, and thankful that Sam was able to help solidify my testimony.

What is Love?

THANKSgiving Day 24
 "It's the simple things in life, like the kids (in class that give me life)..." I put my own spin on a country song that has been in my head this afternoon. As the day was nearing an end I was wishing my students a happy Thanksgiving, telling them how much I would miss them and that I hoped that they would each have a good break. As I talked I walked up to Grumpy Cat and put my arm around her shoulders. She smiled, and another student came up and put her arms around the both of us. This started a hug wave and suddenly everyone was hugging me, walking over with their arms out. My Gentle Giant lifted his arms and even moved a few people aside to get his hug. My heart was overflowing with love and happiness at that moment! "I live for little moments like that..." Recently I asked my chickadees to define love. Today they did it with their actions. I am so thankful for each of my students, and the influence that they have in my life. Today is dedicated to you: Star Wars, Gentle Giant, Teecher's Pet, Sporty Chic, Scarecrow, Daydreamer, Movie Buff, Mr. Everything, Mr. Attitude, Miss Helpful, Grumpy Cat, and Miss Genuine. You are the sunshine in my day! I love having you as my chickadees!

My Brother Chose a Good Sister!

THANKSgiving Day 23
Today I want to send out my THANKSgiving vibes to my amazing sister-in-law, Felicia. I always love getting to spend time with Felicia! I remember being on my mission, and being so terrified of her, for who knows what reason, and so worried about meeting her. I don't know why, because there was absolutely nothing to be afraid of or worried about!  We love the same movies, we love food, and we love having fun together! Back in the day we used to have sister-dates, which I miss so much! Getting to have Felicia all to myself for a few hours was pretty amazing! Even though we don't get to spend oodles of time together now, the time we do spend together is fantastic! I am so grateful to have a friend and confidant in Felicia! I'm glad that my brother chose her as my sister! Love you!

Mi Familia

THANKSgiving Day 22
Today I got to have an early Thanksgiving dinner with my family. It was so fun to be there with my family, in all of the chaos with kids running around and stealing food. I ended up at the kids' table (I thought that I had outgrown that!) but I didn't mind. I got to help the littles fill their plates, and I even got my Roley-Coley to try some new and different foods! He didn't like most of it, but he at least put it to his mouth, which is closer than he usually gets! Once all of the kids finished I got to scoot closer to the grownups and talk with them. I love how the conversation flows in my family, and how we all love and support one another. I love the way we laugh together. I love the way we tease. I love the way we just sit in silence sometimes. I love the way we accept one another. The way we go to bat for one another. I am completely biased, but I'm pretty sure that my family is the best one that there is! So mi familia, today I am beyond thankful for you! Mom, Dad, Jolene, Nic, Sam, Mark, Cole, Lucy, Jason, Felicia, Erika, and Marvy. :)

My One True Love...

THANKSgiving Day 21
I've been trying to dig deeper than the surface for my posts this month. Today's post isn't very deep, but it's what I am soooo thankful for: SLEEP! For those who really know me, you know that sleep is pretty much my one desire in life! I crave it. I will do anything for it. I can fall asleep at the drop of a hat. I will sacrifice "fun" activities so that I can sleep. I am a much better person when I have sleep. I love when I have uneventful Saturdays so that I can sleep. This week I really needed it. I feel like I spent most of the week in a fog, but I made it to the weekend. I got to sleep in this morning, and I've even taken a few naps. (Don't judge-I needed it!) Now my brain is functioning like it should be, and I no longer feel like a zombie. So today I am thankful for this basic part of life. Sleep is amazing! And now, seeing that it's getting late, I'm going to snooze some more!

Broken Record

THANKSgiving Day 20
On Friday I had the opportunity to collaborate with another professional. I must've said a million "I am so glad that you are here!" and "It makes me feel validated to have you here!" It was a productive use of my time, and hopefully will be very beneficial on all sides! I love all opportunities that I have to collaborate with people who really get what my classroom and students are like. A lot of people think they do, but unless you've actually worked in a class like mine, you can only guess what it must be like. I love learning from others who have been in the trenches and have advice to offer. It's the best!

Like Father, Like Son

THANKSgiving Day 19
I'm playing a little catch-up, but don't worry, I remember what I was thankful for that day! On Thursday I had the opportunity to go to G-ville to watch a concert (Bar-J Wranglers) with my family. It was fun to be with them! During the concert Erika was dancing around and having a great time. As I was watching her I noticed how she interacted with her daddy, my brother. She was so excited to see him when he got there, and said "That's my daddy!" I watched as Jason interacted with her, and was silly with her. When we were younger, and still on occasion now, my dad would be silly with us. I loved it! That was one of the ways that I knew I was loved-my dad would tease me and be silly with me. That is what my brother grew up with, and now his daughter is growing up with that as well. I am so thankful for my brother and the amazing man that he is. Jason is an amazing brother, friend, husband, and father. I often think of his crazy jokes and things that he did when he was younger to make me laugh. Now he works to make his little girl laugh. I am so grateful for my awesome brother!

Protect and Serve

THANKSgiving Day 18:
Today I am thankful for those who protect and serve us in our communities and beyond. We had a lock down drill at school today, and the officer at my school was so great to check with me about where my kids were just prior to the drill, and to see how we were after the drill. He is always looking out for my chickadees, but it's not just us; he looks out for all of the students at our school. I know that I feel a lot more safe when he is there!
Beyond the officer at my school, there are so many people who are putting their lives on the line everyday to ensure our safety. My life has been blessed by many people who put on the uniform: police officers, firemen, and the military. Thank you to each of you!

Round-Table

THANKSgiving Day 17
I am thankful for the opportunity to meet and talk with like-minded individuals. I had the opportunity to participate in a bit of a round-table thing in my district, and it was so awesome to get and talk shop with other people. Sharing ideas, dreaming about what makes the best school, and listening to a woman talk about the great things that we can do as educators...so much fun!

It's my seester!

THANKSgiving Day 16
One of my favorite, and most used phrases recently, is "my sister and I were talking about that..." I love having the opportunity to talk to my sister about everything under the sun. The other night we sat out in her driveway and just talked, and talked, and talked. It was therapeutic. It was soul quenching. It was exactly what I needed. My sister is my "person," that one person who is there for you whatever the cause may be. She listens when I'm sad. She rejoices when I'm happy. She teaches when I come to her with questions and problems. She laughs when I'm being a dork. And maybe most importantly, she can understand Amanda-cry-ese. (It's a tricky language!) I am so thankful for such a great sister! She is one amazing woman, mother, sister, friend, and "person!" My life is complete because she is in it! I love you, Jolene!

My Village

THANKSgiving Day15: today I am so grateful for the village who raised me. I love having the opportunity to visit my parent's ward because it is full of the people who raised me and helped me to become the person I am today. It's fun to see all of these people and continue to learn and grow from them. It really is coming home to be with them!

My "Soup-er" Mom!

THANKSgiving Day 14 goes to my madre. This weekend she invited all of us girls out to "Soup-er' Saturday at her ward, which consisted of crafting and eating some yummy soups. It was fun to sit around the table and talk with my mom and sisters while we worked on being creative. My mom has always been a creative person, and has loved doing crafts. Growing up, our home always had fun projects that she had completed that helped to make the holidays complete. It was fun to have the opportunity to work with her this year!
I love spending time with my mom. She is an amazing lady! I learn so much from her each time that we are together. I love how she loves others, which is evident by how much time she spends visiting with others. My mom is a great example of how to be a friend, and I am so grateful for that! Love you, Mom!

Day 12 and 13

THANKSgiving Day 12: I am so thankful for good food and good friends, and good work. It's even better when it all comes together!


THANKSgiving Day 13: I am thankful for the opportunity to fulfill my calling. I had the opportunity to go out on some visits to people from my ward. We didn't really get to see anyone while we were visiting, but just the chance to go out and find was great!

I get it from my Dad!

Anyone who has taken biology knows that each person inherits some traits and characteristics from each parent. For example, I have my mom's eyes, but my dad's skin. As far as the tall genes go, I got the short end of the stick-doubly! I have grandmothers on both sides who were known as little, wee, small, etc. Hence, I come in smaller packaging! I digress-back to the topic at hand: inheriting things from your parents. From my mom I got my ability to story tell, and from my dad, I got a deep love for my country.
 From a young age, I remember my dad quietly setting the example of how to properly show respect for my country. When I was young I would hear my dad tell stories about what it was like when he was in Vietnam, and what it was like when he came back. As I grew older I learned more and more details about my dad's story. Those who were alive during the Vietnam era know that life for those soldiers who fought in that war was difficult, to say the least. Though my dad was a hero, he was not treated that way when he got home, and still today there are people who do not look highly on his sacrifice. Through all of the terrible things that my dad experienced, his love and loyalty to his country never waned. If anything, it grew stronger. This love and loyalty was passed onto his children. I love my country with all that I have and am. I am thankful for this love of country that my dad has passed down to me. I would have to say that it's probably one of my very favorite things that I got from him!
I love you dad, and I am so proud and thankful for your courage to stand by your country, even when people were screaming at you and telling you how wrong you were. You have set a great example for me, and instilled a great deal of respect and pride within my heart. Happy Veterans Day, not only to my dad, but all those who have ever donned the uniform. Our country is stronger because of you, the brave! Thank you!

Kindness...Pass It On!

THANKSgiving Day 10 is dedicated to acts of kindness. Last week my principal brought a couple of girls to my classroom and asked if I could use some help. I gladly accepted the offer then frantically wondered what I could have them do. It's not like I have a shortage of projects going on, but thinking of how to let others help is hard for me. I did some brainstorming, and came up with a couple of ideas. I've been so impressed with how much these girls have been able to help me, and how quickly they get things done. They come in, ask what I need, and do it. They are so amazing! I am grateful for the opportunity to work with these girls, and for the lesson that it is teaching me in letting others help.
I know that everyday I am blessed by the kindness of others, in various ways. Smiles, kind words, treats, offers of help, kindness to my students...all of these things touch my heart and make me smile!

They pay me for this?!

THANKSgiving Day 9...I am sooooooooo thankful for my job! I have read a few articles about how you shouldn't talk about how good your job is because it's rubbing it in the face of people who don't love their jobs, and we all know it's just a farce anyways because no one really loves their job...so if you are offended by people who love their jobs, this post isn't for you. :)
Anyone who knows me knows that mornings are hard for me. Really hard. I love my job, but I don't love mornings. I'm not particularly fond of Monday mornings. The only good thing about mornings is that they get me to school, which is where my chickadees are! So I'm driving to work this morning, tired, and hoping for a good day. I did get a good day! Things were a little crazy at times; there were a few tantrums, some tears, kicking of chairs, more tantrums...but at the end of the day I turned in my chair and saw a picture of my chickadees from the day we ran the Goblin Chase. Right then, all of the worries of the day blurred away as I looked at their smiling faces. It's a really fantastic picture, and I am so thankful for all that it represents. I am so blessed to have the best job in the world! I don't know how I got so lucky to be paid for having all of the fun that we do!
Mornings might be hard, but it's the pathway to my happiness (aka, chickadees) and I am so thankful for it! (Today I might also be thankful for mornings-this post kind of sounds like it!)

Faith

THANKSgiving day 8 is dedicated to my faith. There have been a lot of questions on my mind lately, but my faith is pulling me through. Recently, one of the apostles counseled that we should "doubt (our) doubts before (we) doubt (our) faith..." (Elder Holland) There has also been a verse of scripture in my mind, 1 Nephi 11:17- "I know that he (God) loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things." I don't need to know the meaning of all things. I just need to know that God has a plan for all of His children. I have faith and trust in him. I am grateful for my faith because it is what anchors me. It keeps me safe, happy, and secure.

On the Run!

THANKSgiving day 7 is dedicated to something that is not high on my "favorites" list...running. It's something that my sister and I picked up a few years ago, for heaven knows what reason! When we decided to start running we decided that when we entered a race, we wanted it to be for a good cause, and so that's what we did. We've done a few races, and with the exception of the Harry Potter run (who could resist that?!) they have helped with raising awareness for various causes. This past weekend I had the opportunity to participate in the Purple Dash 5k, a race that promotes epilepsy awareness. It's near and dear to my heart, and I am grateful for the chance to participate.
This year was even more special because for the first time, two aspects of my world collided. Thinking about it earlier that week had me near tears, and the actual event saw the leakage break through. It was so beautiful and special, and made me so thankful for all of the wonderful people that I am blessed with!

Goobies

THANKSgiving Day 6 is super easy...I am thankful for good friends, laughter, and Friday night naps! Tonight Jessie and Meg came up for a visit, and it has been so good for my soul! I have known these two amazing women for 10 years now, and I can honestly say that I am a better person for it! They know me-all of the little weird things, the big weird things, all of the weird things in between, and they still talk to me and like me! It's a win-win situation! It's so nice to spend time with friends you haven't seen in a while, but still can pick up as if it hasn't been months. This is the mark of a true friendship. A friendship that will last through the ages. My soul has been uplifted and rejuvenated. Thank you, Red, for the nap! ;) And thank you, Megara, for the new "friends!" Love you both! Also, a big thank you to R & W for bringing some noise and fun into my home!

The Question

Every year I struggle with the same question: when is it socially acceptable to begin listening to Christmas music? On November 1 one radio station began playing non-stop Christmas music. I would listen to a song or two every now and then, but yesterday when it began to snow I decided that I could officially listen to Christmas music whenever I wanted, and I could be proud of it. It sounds silly, but it was freeing for me. As I've been listening to these familiar and beloved songs I have felt my heart become softer and more kind. I have felt myself being turned more towards my Savior, and I am working harder to do as He would do, and treat others the way in which He would treat them. This is one of the blessings of Christmas music in my life-it turns my heart more towards the Savior. I know that there are people who loathe Christmas music until December 1, but for me, it's a spiritual journey. I am thankful to have it on the radio, and I am thankful for my softened heart. Be ye forewarned! If ye ride in me car, 'twill be Christmas music a playin'!

Good teamwork, Team!

In high school I never participated in any team sports. I don't remember doing a lot of team/group projects either. I know the phrase, "There is no I in team," but haven't had much use to apply it. My first year teaching I was having a conversation with my psych and a student, and the psych told my student that we were all on his team. The student stopped and said, "Wait, I have a team? You're on my team?" It was a defining moment for this kid as he realized that there was a team of people ready to love and support him, and that we were all on the same side, fighting for him. He made some great strides after that.
 That "ah-ha" moment has always stood out to me. I have struggled to find my "team" over the past few years...but I have had my "team" moment this year. My team at school is amazing. We are blending together so well, and it is a really good vibe! I am especially grateful for my partner in crime! She cracks me up, lifts me up, and fires me up! I am so blessed to work with some amazing people, and thankful to have them as my team! Go team, go! Thanksgiving Day 4 is dedicated to you!

Just Enough

Today's THANKSgiving post is going to be a little backwards...I just spent the past few minutes spending all of my money. On bills. Because I'm a grown up. And that's what grown ups do. But, I am grateful to have the bills because it means that I have a roof over my head that is temperature controlled, an education that provided me with the opportunity to have a job that I love, and a car to take me where I need to be, and I have the internet to keep me occupied (and post this blog!). Though I would like to keep some of that money, I am grateful for the things that it pays for. I am blessed to have enough to meet my needs, and even have some fun now and then! So day 3 is dedicated to you, my bills! Live it up because come tomorrow I may not be as happy that you took all of my money. :)

"Grown Ups"

A long, long time ago, in a city far, far away, a bright-eyed 18 year old met someone who would become a kindred spirit, a BFF. These two kindred spirits had the best time together in college, so much so that they decided that when they were "grown ups" and got "grown up" jobs, they would live together. Years passed and their lives took them in different directions, but still, the dream of living together as "grown ups" remained.
One day the two kindred spirits discovered that they had, despite their best efforts, become "grown ups", and even better, they had "grown up" jobs. And so it was settled: the kindred spirits set out to find a place to live.
They searched far and wide, ghetto to the lap of luxury. The perfect place was elusive, and just when they thought that they would never have a place to live, they found it. It wasn't perfect, but it was theirs! They moved in on a cold winter day, and their new lives as "cool grown ups" began.

I have learned a lot in the nearly two years that I have been living with Anna! I always tell people that Anna is a saint to put up with me and all of my craziness! I'm sure that it was a lot to take in at first, but now she takes it all with stride! Anna is a great friend to have around, and she makes an excellent conscience! (PS-Anna, I really do need that mug!) She is also one of the rocks in my life. I know that when things get tough, she is there for me. She has learned to speak "Amanda," even when it is covered in tears. And she doesn't laugh too much when I cry over ridiculous things. (Ex: last night I cried over a wedding in "Parks and Rec" it was pretty crazy!) I feel like everyday I learn to value and understand Anna just a little more. I am so grateful to have her in my life, and to be roommates. I love our traditions, and the random things that we decide to do along the way. I have learned so much from Anna, and hope that I am a fraction of the person for her that she is for me. Anna Miller, you rock! Day 2 of THANKSgiving is dedicated to you!

Whale Mating Calls, or Fast Sunday

It would seem that I have neglected my blog for 11 months...oops! But, it's that time of year when we get to reflect a little more on the things that we are thankful for. Thus begins THANKSgiving.

Day 1
Today was fast and testimony meeting at church. Forever ago, when I was at CEU, my friends and I would joke on fast Sunday that the louder your stomach growls, the more you were feeling the Spirit. Boy, was I feeling the Spirit today! Occasionally I wondered if perhaps my stomach had learned some whale mating calls and was calling out, looking for it's soulmate. No one answered, but there's always next month. :)
As I sat through testimony meeting, trying to quiet the beast, I thought about how blessed I am to have the opportunity to fast. It's such a simple gesture: going without food and water for 24 hours, but the Spirit that it brings into my life is amazing. I feel drawn closer to my Father in Heaven and my Savior. I have witnessed so many miracles as a result of fasting and prayer. It's a simple thing that brings so many blessings. This is what I am thankful for today-the opportunity to fast and feel an extra measure of the Spirit. So bring on the whale mating calls-the end result is worth it!