Beauty Will Rise

What is love?

2012-01-29T15:10:00.001-08:00

This is on Parker's classroom door at school. Bottom frame is zoomed in on Parker's answer to the question "What is love?" Pretty deep response for a 4 year old!

A dose of cuteness

2012-01-23T15:19:00.001-08:00

So my last few posts have been pretty full of WORDS but nothing cute! For the 3 people who actually read this, I decided I needed to throw in a little dose of adorable!!!

Obedience.

2012-01-22T16:42:00.001-08:00

Sometimes obedience means doing things we don't want to do.
Sometimes obedience means NOT doing things we want to do.
Sometimes it is trusting that God has all of the little details taken care of.
Sometimes it is trusting that God has all of the BIG details taken care of too.
Sometimes it is easy.
Sometimes it is so, so hard.
Always it is worth it.

Obedience for our little family looks like stepping out in faith and leaving the church we have been a part of for almost 7 years, not knowing where we will go now. It hasn't been easy. But I trust that it will be so, so good.

2 Chronicles 20:12- We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.

11 Questions

2012-01-18T18:44:00.001-08:00

The precious Ashlee at Blessed Chick tagged me in this post and requested that I answer these same questions! So, here goes!

1. What are your biggest pet peeves, not including traffic issues?

This is hard, because most of my pet peeves are traffic related!! I guess I'd have to go with people who "play dumb" to get out of things and people who act over-entitled.

2. If you could go on an all-expense paid vacation & take one person, who would you take & where would you go?

I would love to either take a cruise or go to an all-inclusive resort with the hubs! We've never been on a vacation alone other than our honeymoon, and neither of us have been on either of those types of vacation!

3. If you could do anything you wanted for your next birthday, what would you do? (Money is no object & everything is okay to eat!)
Sleep late, Split Decision breakfast from IHOP, shopping, lunch at La Madeleine's, nap, movie, dinner at Ruth's Chris or Sullivan's...

4. What is your favorite play or musical? If you do not have one, how are we friends? (Totally kidding. I don't watch football, it all evens out!)
Children of Eden holds a special place in my heart!!!! I also love Bye, Bye Birdie and Les Miserables.

4. What are some of your favorite girl names? Favorite boy names?
Other than my own kids' names...
Girl- Bradlee Jane, Kyle Olivia
Boy- Beau, Easton, Kellan

5. What is the biggest lesson you have learned in life? God's plans are so much better than mine!

6. What is your favorite recipe? (Link please!)
I don't have a link, but "crack dip"... One 16 oz container sour cream (you cannot use light, it won't mix properly), 1 packet hidden valley ranch dressing mix, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits to your heart's desire. So amazing! Serve with corn chips or potato chips, yum!

7. What is the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
The newest Karen Kingsbury book, Longing. SO good! All of her books are amazing!!

8. Who is your favorite author or speaker?
Author- Karen Kingsbury (Christian fiction)
Speaker(s)- Beth Moore (ah-mazing!!), Christine Caine (seriously y'all. Heard her speak on the Passion live stream... Talk about powerful), Louie Giglio

9. Which bloggie friends do you hope to meet in real life?
I don't know if I can call them "friends" since they have no idea I exist... But... Kelly from Kelly's Korner... I adore her! And Ashley from Lil Blue Boo.. Want to talk about someone who puts "Choose Joy" in a new perspective?? Also Kristin from Lu Bird Baby... I'm pretty sure if we lived in the same town, we would be friends!!

10. What is your nervous habit?
I tend to scratch/rub my neck/throat area. There will be days when I have a long day at work and my students ask "Why are you all red?" it's that bad.

11. What do you hope will happen (that could happen!) in 2012? Vacation with the hubs, get plugged in to new ministry

I'm supposed to tag 11 more people...but I don't think I really know 11 other blog buddies. I'll just leave it as an open invitation to whoever may want to do this! :)

Tough stuff< Jesus

2012-01-07T18:52:00.001-08:00

This week has been emotionally exhausting for a variety of reasons. Most of them revolve around watching several coworkers walk through some extremely difficult circumstances. But in the midst of that, it has been extremely, extremely awesome to see our faculty come together for one another, even in prayer! (one of my coolest experiences in my 7 years of teaching-- after receiving bad news at a faculty meeting, about 35 of us stayed after the meeting, joined hands, and cried out to the Lord on behalf of another. So awesome!)

All that to say: Jesus is so much bigger. "Our God is greater. Our God is stronger. God, you are higher than any other! Our God is healer; awesome in power! Our God!" No matter what junk we are walking through (either personally or walking along side someone else), He is enough. Always. And in Him is so much freedom. I'm so glad for the work He's currently doing in my heart.

Passion 2012

2012-01-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

Back in 2003 I had the privilege of attending the Passion OneDay conference in Sherman, Texas. That seems like an eternity ago, but I still remember the profound impact it had on my life.

So naturally, I am THRILLED that my sister is at the Passion 2012 conference going on in Atlanta right now. Due to the wonders of technology, I have been able to watch some of the live stream and have been completely blown away. I want to share some of the "notes" I jotted down from Christine Caine this afternoon, on the subject of Passion's "Do Something Now" which is raising money for the fight against human trafficking (more about this in a future post.) I am mostly writing this post for myself, but I hope some of the truth in it will speak to someone else!

*When divine interruptions happen, lives are transformed.

*Jesus often interrupts our very normal, mundane moments in order to speak to us to transform our lives.

*The only thing that Jesus Christ went to the cross for was PEOPLE. (Luke 10:30)

*Compassion is never compassion until you cross the street and go... and do something now... until you get involved, until you allow yourself to be interrupted.

*Heaven was interrupted to send Jesus from Heaven to Earth for each one of us.

*If we are crippled and we are broken, then we can't help anybody else, but we who have been rescued have a responsibility to rescue lost and broken people. We have hope. His name is Jesus and that Jesus lives on the inside of us and he sends us to a lost and broken world to bring hope and restoration.

*We are saved. By grace. For a purpose. There are works that God prepared for us before we ever got to earth.

*Freedom is the goal of Christianity.

*As if somehow the purpose of life is to die safely! We don't need to fear what He defeated!

*IT IS FOR FREEDOM THAT CHRIST SET US FREE and we will stand on NOTHING LESS in our generation.

*Light works most effectively in the darkness. We just need to take the light that's inside of us to dispel the darkness...

IT IS FOR FREEDOM JESUS SET US FREE!

More coming on this subject; it's where my heart is right now.

"Motto" for 2012

2012-01-02T08:12:00.000-08:00

Let me start from the beginning.

Over the summer, I had the privilege of attending a training based on the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. Our school system's goal is to adopt these principles district-wide. One of the things that we were encouraged to do was to write our own personal "Mission Statement"... something simple that would reflect a deeper goal or set of goals. I battled on this for a long time, and finally decided to make writing my mission statement the basis of my "motto" for 2012.

So, here's what it means...

CHOOSE JOY- For a long time, I have loved this simple phrase. But this year, I want to LIVE it instead of just "love it"... I want to look at all of life's situations and choose JOY, no matter how difficult the circumstances may be. Choosing joy doesn't necessarily mean that I have a goal to always be HAPPY. There's a difference. Joy is deeper rooted than happiness. As Psalm 30:11 says, "You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy." True joy comes from knowing that God is in control.

HAVE TIME- This one is going to be the most difficult for me. I'm really guilty of thinking "I just don't have time for.... (fill in the blank)." This part of my "mission statement" is to have time for the things that are truly important-- a daily quiet time, time with my children, time with my husband, time to focus on being a better teacher and friend.

MAKE MEMORIES- This is my reminder that sometimes I just need to SLOW DOWN and enjoy the moment instead of trying to make it perfect. It ties hand in hand with the first two-- looking for those special things to remember in the day to day, and having the time to enjoy them when they come along.

2012

2012-01-01T08:49:00.001-08:00

I'm a terrible blogger! I feel like 2011 was a total whirlwind and this poor blog was completely neglected. 2011 brought many great things for our little family, including our sweet Jude Morrison and a wonderful new job for the hubs. As great as it was, I am so looking forward to what 2012 has in store for us.

A few resolutions:
1. I have chosen a "motto" for this year. Look for a blog makeover soon that will incorporate these things: CHOOSE JOY, HAVE TIME, MAKE MEMORIES. (post to come soon on how I came up with this and what it means!)
2. Blog more. In addition to hopefully keeping up with this blog more, I am also using an app to do the 365 photo challenge!
3. Read to the kids (at least to Parker) every day! Before 2012 ends, my little girl will be in kindergarten!! I want to spend more time reading to her/working on her academic skills.
4. Date my husband. (more on this later)
5. Have a more consistent quiet time.

I am sure there are other things I will purpose myself to doing this year, but these are my year-long resolutions. (I also have a goal to lose a specific amount of weight by our anniversary in April!)

Here's to 2012 and all God has in store!!

New posts!!

2011-08-03T14:17:00.001-07:00

This blog is so sadly neglected.
I just put up a series of new posts at allenfamilylsu.blogspot.com
Probably going to get rid of this blog and just keep that one now...

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've blogged.

So I figure, why not post two times in one day. If you didn't listen to the song in the post below, you should. Because it's beautiful.

So now I'll go with Things I'm Thankful For.... You know, since it's Thursday. And Thankful Thursday is a catchy post title.

Trent
Parker
My extended family
God's faithfulness
My job
Good friends
Family photos... especially my mustard.seed ones
Good coworkers
Cooler weather! Finally!
High school football (yes, I did just say that)
My students
Sushi
Candy corn
my Paula Deen Creme Brulee candle

What a Savior - Laura Story

2010-10-28T16:48:00.000-07:00

We've started singing this song at church recently, and I LOVE IT!

Home Away from Home

2010-09-04T06:23:00.001-07:00

Back to school! This means I spend almost more of my waking hours in S210 than at home!! After a LONG summer full of construction on our campus, we were finally able to get back in the building a week before the start of school and get things set back up. BIG, BIG, HUGE thanks to my mom for helping me in my room, and my dad and mother-in-law who did their share of Parker-watching to make this happen. I did a complete "makeover" in my classroom.... which looked amazing before I put anything on the walls simply because they replaced my 1970's orange carpet with glorious white tile!

Here are a few shots:

The Alma Mater banner

Powercat

I'm (eventually) going to have all of my students write/draw/color their name on a 3x5 card, and hang the cards up with this banner

The blank panel now says "We are CENTRAL" in big block letters. I need to take a new pic.

View of the room from the door

Student computers (only one works, by the way!)

Spirit Ribbon Banners- a tradition I started my first year at Central, and the kids LOVE it.

My desk from the back of the room

My cute name sign-- one of my summer art projects

I started these two boards last year- pics of and from my students, going all the way back to my first year at ZHS! :)

Desk- it is a HUGE mess now, haha

View of the room from my desk

The only "change" other than the one maroon panel is a big banner on the back wall that says "We were born to succeed, not to fail." (H.D. Thoreau)

So far, it is a GREAT school year. My new kids are awesome; my new co-teacher is working out beautifully; I have a great schedule. All in all, life at CHS is good!! :)

(Check out our Allen Family Blog for pics of Princess P's CHS spirit.)

Vacation?

2010-08-30T18:10:00.001-07:00

So I decided to deactivate my facebook for a while. This is a huge deal for me because, quite honestly, I am way too "addicted" to facebook!

I just needed a break. Now that I'm back in school, I find myself using facebook as an excuse to not do schoolwork. It also walks a fine line of distracting me from time I could/should be spending with Parker and Trent. So... I'm on facebook vacation. Not sure how long. Hopefully my break there will help out my blogging frequency. I need to get back in to writing something other than a status anyway!!

So here's to one less distraction in life.... Let's see how long it lasts!

Starry Night

2010-08-02T14:43:00.000-07:00

We heard this song while we were out on the boat on False River last weekend, and I think we've listened to it about 87 times since then! I love what it says...

Starry Night- Chris August

From the Birds that Sing, In the Tallest Trees.
To the Human Life, of you and me.
From the Desert Sands, to the place we stand.
He is God of All, He is Everything.

I'm giving my life to the only one who makes the Moon reflect the sun.
Every Starry Night, that was His design.
I'm giving my life to the only son, who was and is and yet to come
Let the praises ring, 'cause he is everything
'Cause he is everything

From the Autumn Leaves, that will ride the breeze
To the Faith it takes, to pray and sing
From the Painted sky, to my plank filled eye
He is God of all, He is everything

I'm giving my life to the only one who makes the Moon reflect the sun
On that Starry Night, He changed my life.
I'm giving it all to the only son who gave me hope when I had none.
So let the praises ring,
Ohhhh Let the Praises Ring

I'm giving my life to the only one who makes the Moon reflect the sun.
Every Starry Night, that was His design.
I'm giving my life to the only son, who was and is and yet to come
Let the Angels sing, that he is Heavenly

So let the Praises ring
'Cause he everything

So Long, Insecurity?

2010-07-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about the summer is the fact that I get to attend our church's Stay-At-Home-Moms Bible study. The women who meet each week are as diverse as can be, and each one has a beautiful testimony of the Lord's faithfulness, unique gifts and talents they use in ministry, and not to mention, pretty cute kids! This summer's study is a journey through Beth Moore's So Long, Insecurity.

Let me start by telling you that the title of the book alone evoked much fear and hesitation in my heart at the beginning of the summer. The fact of the matter is-- I have insecurities. Some of them are extremely silly and could be considered "unfounded"... others come from very real hurts and struggles in my past. I was scared to even do this study because I often find myself "insufficient" in the Lord. Like, I don't read my Bible enough; I don't pray enough; I don't go out doing street evangelism or go on mission trips enough....

While this book has been challenging and eye opening, the Lord has really used this time to affirm in me that He has NOT given me a spirit of fear... He HAS given me everything I need for life and godliness... He rejoices over me with singing...

The lesson may be difficult, but His truths have been SO CLEAR. I am by no means at all "there" in being totally secure... but I am wholeheartedly embracing the Lord's truth in my life, and that has been so freeing. I cannot wait to see what He has in store for my heart and the women walking through this with me.

But as with anything in life, it seems that as the Lord does a great work in my heart.... the Enemy tests my faith. It has been wonderful to see God's hand at work in these trials and tests.... but whoever out there is praying for patience for me... you can stop now! Ha!

Show Us Your Life- Favorite Bible Verses

2010-07-09T18:08:00.000-07:00

I've been reading Kelly's blog for a long time, and finally decided I'd participate in her Friday "Show Us Your Life".... this one is easy for me! Yet hard to narrow down!! Go to Kelly's blog to see other posts! :)

My favorite Bible verses RIGHT NOW....

"Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked." ~Psalm 84:10

*This verse has been a favorite since high school... because truly, better is one day with Him than a thousand without Him!

"The Lord your God is with you; He is mighty to save! He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing!" ~Zephaniah 3:7

*Even though I don't understand it, I totally love that MY God could be delighted in ME!

"His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness." ~2 Peter 1:3

There are so many things about this verse.... HIS divine power... EVERYTHING we need... CALLED US by his own glory and goodness. Love it.

New Name?

2010-07-06T10:31:00.001-07:00

I'm thinking of changing my blog name....

New name/new look/new post in the works...

Summer Reading

2010-05-31T18:30:00.001-07:00

I just finished my first book of the summer, and it completely gripped my heart! I have been reading Angie Smith's blog "Bring the Rain" for quite some time, so I was very familiar with Audrey's story. But this book....I Will Carry You... Wow. I'm just speechless at Angie's willingness to let the Lord use her loss and heartache to speak truth about how He sustains. If you've never read her blog, link to it from the button on my sidebar and read back to hear her heart. It will be worth it!

FIVE years!!

2010-05-28T19:08:00.000-07:00

Today officially ended my FIFTH year of teaching. It is SO hard to believe it has been this long already. Thinking back, my life has changed SO MUCH in those five years.

Year 1- English I and English IV Honors teacher at Zachary High. I got married that April, switching from Ms. Wilson to Mrs. Allen mid-way through the second semester. I was new, young, wide-eyed, and completely clueless. Katrina happened. I experienced MAJOR ups and downs with some great kids.

Year 2- English I and English IV-AP teacher at Zachary High. Also Senior Class Sponsor. I got pregnant that fall, and spent the year extremely crazy and hormonal. Ha. This was also the first year of Zachary's "Freshman Academy," and the teaming aspect of the Academy taught me SO much about "relational teaching." I became MUCH more effective.

Year 3- English I and English IV-AP teacher at ZHS. No longer Senior Class Sponsor, but I did start the "Scrapbook Club." I had a newborn. I had no sleep. I had a GREAT year. I finally felt like I was "in the groove" of teaching.

Summer between Year 3 and Year 4, I got a call *TOTALLY* out of the blue from Central High. I called my friend Meg and basically said, Ok, if this is supposed to be my job, I'm gonna pray they offer it to me in the interview, and that will be my "sign" from the Lord. I went in for the interview. Principal said "I don't really want to interview you, I want to offer you a job." Ok, Lord. That was easy. The goodbyes and transitions... not so easy.

Year 4- English III Teacher and Co-Yearbook Sponsor at Central High School. I LOVE teaching at my alma mater. It was definitely a year of transition, but I grew a lot and taught some kids that I know will be special to me for the rest of my life.

Year 5- English III Teacher and Co-Yearbook Sponsor at CHS. MY BEST YEAR YET! As those of you who have been reading for a while know, this was definitely not an easy year at Central. It was a year full of great tragedy, and great triumph. Unspeakable sorrow, and elating joy. It was a year of learning and growing and really falling in to what it means to teach as a very significant ministry.

I am SO thankful that the Lord called me to teach. I am SO thankful for the lives I've been able to *hopefully* change in some way, the kids I've been able to love with His love. Five years down.... 25 to go.... unless He calls me elsewhere.

Now, my summer of being a Stay-at-Home-Mom begins!

Let the SAHM Bible Study, crafting, "swimming" in Parker's pool, sewing, lesson-planning, "field-trip"-ing, FUN begin!!

Prom

2010-04-24T06:33:00.000-07:00

I still *distinctly* remember several details of my junior Prom. The weather was horrible! Think rain that flooded streets, power outages all over the city, wind so bad that an umbrella was useless....

But I loved my dress. I had fun with my date. It was a great memory.

Senior Prom- equally fun. One of those "lasts" of high school. To say that I was obsessed with my dress would probably be the understatement of the century.

Fast forward what feels like about 20 years. Not really, but it certainly FEELS like forever.

CHS Prom 2010. Prom from a TOTALLY different perspective.

Somehow, as a teacher, it's more "scary" than "glamorous."

I don't know that I will ever let Parker go to Prom.

Scratch that, she can go, but I'll still be chaperoning.

And the after party will be at my house.

Where they can have as much sweet tea or Dr. Pepper as they want.

Here are a few highlights....

Dawn, me, and Shannon... my sweet friends!

Beautiful Heather and I

Precious Jenna! I've known her since she was a tiny little girl!

Sweet Mark

Two of my former Zachary girls were there! I taught them as freshmen! And now they're graduating!! (Have I really been teaching long enough for that??!)

I don't know what I'd do without Abby at work!

Brandon brought Alyssa! I LOVE this pic of them!

Me with sweet Lys

Oh, Cooper! :)

Beautiful Dylan

My "little brother".... can't believe he's graduating

William..

All in all, it was a good night. I don't know that I've ever prayed quite so much for my students. But they are great kids, and I love my job because of them!

I am not.

2010-04-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

I am pretty sure that the Lord often has to use extra doses of patience when He "deals" with my heart.

More to come on this subject, but for now, I will post a few lines from a song my friend Nathan wrote that pretty much sum up what He's teaching me...

Sweet forgiveness, Grace Unending

My heart broken; My voice singing

You are God, You are I AM, and I am not.

You hear my voice and you know my every thought

How sweet to hear the song I AM is singing in my heart again

You are God, You are I AM, and I am not.

Vote for Parker

2010-04-14T14:32:00.001-07:00

One of my friends, Amanda Causey, is a great photographer who we have worked with before! She took some AWESOME family photos for us back when she was just starting out in her business, and we LOVE them! Amanda is one of my high school friends who does photography in addition to her other job because it's just something that she loves.

She's doing a "cutest kid" contest on her blog and facebook, and I'd LOVE it if you'd go vote for Parker. Because, let's face it, Parker is just too stinkin' cute.

You can go HERE or to her Facebook page to vote for Parker!!! She's #10!

And if you wanna post this plug on your own blog, I wouldn't mind that either! :) Ha.

You can vote once a day on both sites every day from NOW until next Wednesday (the 21st!)

Two things....

2010-04-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

I don't do a whole lot of "promoting" other blogs on my site, probably because there are likely only about 7 people who READ my blog- HA! However, today there are two things I want to tell you about!!!

I don't know how many of you read the "Bring the Rain" blog (link here or click the button on my sidebar), but if you don't, you should. Angie's husband Todd is a part of the Christian group Selah, and her blog is an incredibly powerful, incredibly raw view of their family's journey through life, grief, joy, restoration, etc. Even if you don't read her WHOLE story (and trust me, it is worth reading every.single.post), you should absolutely check out this post she just wrote called "Tree of Mystery." COMPLETELY amazing/beautiful.

And second, my friend Lindsey (of the blog "Playin' With the Pencils") has an amazing website for her photography business mustard.seed.photography. Go read her blog, check out her photography business, then give her a call to have some pics made of you and your family.

Enjoy this beautiful day! :)

Easter Weekend...

2010-04-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

How Deep the Father's Love....

How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure

How great the pain of searing loss,
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the chosen One,
Bring many sons to glory

Behold the Man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice,
Call out among the scoffers

It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast inJesus Christ
His death and resurrection

Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

Good Weekend

2010-03-21T13:48:00.001-07:00

Reasons I had a good weekend...

LSU baseball game/date night with the hubs Friday night....

Beautiful warm weather Saturday afternoon for bubbles and sidewalk chalk with the munchkin.... (after a family lunch at Voodoo BBQ)

Chaperoned the TWIRP dance at school Saturday night... I *heart* my kiddos

(Me and D'Shea)

(Kelli, me, Jenna)

(Me with Will-- good grief, I'm short)

And then today- grocery shopping, nap, church tonight!

Good weekend? GREAT weekend!

Perspective

2010-03-20T15:19:00.000-07:00

I had these verses underlined in my Bible....

"He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy." Colossians 1:17-18

and this note written next to them....

"Sometimes God's truth wrecks our view of ourselves and puts things back in proper perspective... Where HE is first and we stay out of His way!"

Um... Yeah... How's that for perspective?

Prayers!

2010-03-17T16:07:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite parts of my day is second hour (my off hour) when I get to go visit our Community Based classroom. I LOVE THOSE KIDS!! And the teachers! :)

One of my favorites, Alyssa, is having a super important, MAJOR back surgery Friday. Alyssa is the most absolutely precious 17 year old who has lived with cerebral palsy her whole life. Her surgery is going to be extremely difficult, but it should help her SO much in the long run! Please join me in praying for this precious girl as she has her surgery tomorrow! May God give her and her family peace and may He heal her quickly!!

Alyssa and her brother, Brandon, at CHS Prom last year

Alyssa and Carlee at Prom

Lys dancing with Corey

Lys dancing with Brandon

This week...

2010-03-07T12:41:00.000-08:00

This week was a long one...

Loss. Grief. Frustration. Watching "my" kids deal with emotions and make decisions I wish they'd never have to make. (Try listening to three 18 year olds try to decide what's appropriate to wear to a wake for one of their friends... NOT easy.) Questions. "Why does God...?"

This week was a challenging one...

(See above paragraph, plus...) Trying to be His light. Trying to point to His peace. Relying on Him for strength. Relying on Him for the words to say, or to know when to keep my mouth shut.

This week was full of decisions....

Go on as normal? Change plans? Talk? Stay quiet? Some decisions were well made. Others.... well, lets just say I wish I had a do-over.

This week was full GOOD...

Parker. "My" kids trusting Christ to be their strength. Pretty (no, gorgeous!) weather. The zoo. First crawfish of the year! First flip-flop day of the year. Learning new things about myself and about Him.

This week, I was....

Blessed. Challenged. Extremely emotional. (I mean, who cries watching Wizards of Waverly Place??) Tired. Strengthened. Sinus-y. Filled with His peace. Filled with His joy. Frustrated. Relieved. Loved. Blessed.

This week....

Addendum: HOPE

2010-03-01T15:52:00.000-08:00

So after I blogged about HOPE yesterday, I went to church, where we sang this song:

There is nothing like Your love
No exchange for all You gave
To be welcomed into life
So I can know the love that saves

Now forever to belong
To walk with You for all my days
Theres no greater love than this
You are the Author and the Way

This is the sound of the redeemed
Rising up to praise the King
Our HOPE is in You
This is the sound of the redeemed
Rising up to praise the King

Singing glorious glorious One You have saved us
Honor and Power and Praise to the Savior.
You are the Answer; You are the Answer

You come with power come with fire
As we lift Your name on high
And join with all the saints to sing
In bringing Honor to the King.

OUR HOPE IS IN YOU!!! YOU ARE THE ANSWER!! Wow. What power in those words. So even though today was a tough day, and there will be more to come, my HOPE is in HIM!

HOPE

2010-02-28T08:23:00.001-08:00

For the past two and a half months, I've been wearing a hot pink "Live-Strong" style bracelet that simply bears the word "HOPE." In the inside of the bracelet, the name of a sweet, beautiful 18 year old girl serves as a reminder of a tragic accident, a journey to recovery, and a startlingly painful loss.

In early December, our school and community reeled at the tragic news that one of our senior cheerleaders had been devastatingly injured in a car accident. Together, the community rallied in prayer, fundraisers for the family, and the overwhelming HOPE that God would do a miracle. And it seemed that He was. As thousands of visitors read updates on a CaringBridge site, we rejoiced as it seemed God was slowly, yet surely making Kelsey whole.

On February 26, He did just that. He made her whole. Just not how we thought He would. So now, as our community mourns the loss of this beautiful young woman, we search for God's purpose in all of this.

I may not understand why God chose to take Kelsey, after it seemed like she was doing so well, but I know one thing... He is in control. Through the last two and a half months, God has done a work in our community that truly only HE could have done. Now, as we stand questioning the circumstances, I am praying that we would not question His faithfulness to us.

Kelsey is whole. In fact, she is far more perfect and beautiful now than she ever was on this side of Heaven. So I'm keeping the hot pink bracelet on my wrist as a reminder to keep that Hope. Hope that God will use this tragedy to draw others to Himself. Hope that I would be His light in this dark time. Hope that we would see that He is still GOOD and His mercy endures.

As Steven Curtis Chapman says in his song "Beauty Will Rise"....

But buried deep beneath all our broken dreams

We have this HOPE

Out of these ashes beauty will rise

And we will dance among the ruins

We will see Him with our own eyes

Out of this darkness new light will shine

And we'll know the joy is coming in the morning...

Beauty will rise!

Things I'm learning lately....

2010-01-20T15:57:00.000-08:00

1. He is ENOUGH, period. I have found myself becoming disappointed with people rather easily lately. No one person in particular, just various situations in life. God REALLY convicted me in this area because the problem wasn't that people were necessarily doing things (or NOT doing things, in some cases) to spite me or anything like that. It was that I was relying too much on PEOPLE, and not enough on GOD. By design, PEOPLE are not created to be "enough" in my life. But HE is. I need to focus more on HIM, and less on my expectations and desires of others. Chances are, I was falling short in most of those situations as well.

2. He is not limited by my feeble mind. Another area I've been super convicted lately is not trusting God to work fully in all situations. Well, let me be a bit more specific. I trust Him with things. I believe that He has the power to change any human life. I just sort of put boundaries on what I expect him to be able to do. AND THAT'S SO WRONG. Sometimes, God chooses to work in a situation by having us accept it for exactly what it is, not changing anything about it. Sometimes, He changes tiny details and circumstances in ways that affect bigger things. And sometimes, He TOTALLY steps in and changes things completely around. Any way He chooses to work-- it's for His glory. Who am I to tell Him (or others) how I think He is going to work??? Because I'm probably going to be wrong! I'm probably underestimating Him.

3. Community is a BEAUTIFUL thing. I've had the greatest joy watching the community I am from rally behind several of its own lately. This is one picture of community. An actual physical, demographic community. But it's also a totally perfect picture of a Godly, Biblical community. Stepping in and taking care of your own. No matter the cost. No matter the labor. No matter the reason. Love.

4. I am totally doing what God called me to do. For a while, I secretly struggled with the desire to be a stay-at-home-mom. Not even because I had this burning passion or desire to stay at home with Parker because I thought that was God's plan for our family. But for totally selfish reasons- some big reasons like "Well, all of my friends get to stay at home with their kids and I'm jealous." or "I'm missing out on SO much that I could be doing with Parker." or even ridiculous little things like "I could do more sewing/scrapbooking/napping/blogging/crafting/playdates/etc." I also found myself feeling inadequate up next to some of the women I know who ARE stay at home moms. BUT THAT IS NOT WHAT GOD CALLED ME TO DO! Believe me, if God calls me to stay at home and raise my child (and other children if He chooses to bless us with them), I will totally, wholeheartedly be thankful and gladly transition in to that role. BUT- right now, He has called me to love on some absolutely AMAZING high school students in a public school setting, and I LOVE IT. Sure, some days are super tough and I want to pull my hair out and cry and yell, etc., but for the most part, what I do is a tremendous blessing. My kids are the best- I love them as though they were family. I get to invest in their lives. And hopefully, in the process, I get to be a reflection of Christ, even if I can't BLATANTLY share Christ with them. It truly is the best job in the world.

More later.... this is probably a lot to digest considering my last few posts have been so skimpy/frivolous/non-informational. Ha!

Song on my heart: Beauty Will Rise

2010-01-13T16:12:00.000-08:00

Promised lengthy post to come... but for now, a "teaser" if you will... the lyrics I've had on my heart all week.

Praying for Haiti.

Praying for Kelsey.

Praying for Michael.

Praying that beauty WILL rise.

from "Beauty Will Rise" by Steven Curtis Chapman

Out of these ashes beauty will rise

And we will dance among the ruins

We will see Him with our own eyes

Out of this darkness, new life will shine

And we'll know that joy is coming in the morning...

In the morning... beauty will rise.

This is our hope

This is the promise

That it would take our breath away

To see the beauty that's been made

Out of the ashes.

New Post on other blog....

2010-01-09T16:40:00.001-08:00

I finally put up a new post on our Family Blog....

A new post is in the works for this blog too. I'm sorry it's so neglected...

Until then, go check out our Christmas pictures!!

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-20T07:17:00.000-08:00

*Click to view larger!

***Special thanks to Ashlee at Image Advertising for the amazing design and awesome customer service and Lindsey at Mustard.Seed.Photography for taking the mediocre pictures I had and editing them in to something worth using! :)

Beauty Will Rise

2009-11-03T13:57:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me and/or has been reading my blog for a while knows that I love Steven Curtis Chapman, his music, and especially his heart for adoption. I, like so many other SCC fans, was brokenhearted over the tragic loss of his sweet China Princess Maria Sue. That is why I was SO anticipating the release of his new album. I knew it would be an outpouring of truth as SCC and his family worked through the grief.

It. Is. Amazing.

End of discussion.

Buy it. Love it. Cry while you listen to it.

It is haunting. humbling. challenging. heartfelt. full of despair. full of hope. full of truth.

God is faithful. His promises never fail. His way is perfect. We don't always understand it, but He is in control. This album proclaims those truths over and over..

Quit reading my blog. Buy the CD.

You'll thank me.

Recent Reasons I Love My Life

2009-10-25T19:07:00.000-07:00

Sweet hubs and silly girl

Precious best friend's baby boy

Sweet nieces and little lady

Former students who make me laugh!

Super super silly little girl!

Sweet Students who love my baby girl

Gorgeous sis/awesome aunt

Being a part of an AWESOME school (Homecoming)

Sweet students! Coop!

D'Shea

William

Corey

Being a part of something bigger than myself. Love. Life. Students. Family. Friends. Blessed. Thankful. Undeserving. Amazed.

The Cross

2009-10-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

Last night was the first night our community group combined with another group for guys/girls night. We had the incredible blessing of being "paired" with Brandon Hays & Amy Imel's group. Not only was it extremely nice just to see the hearts of some more amazing women, it was just a great night of truth and challenges.

But one statement stuck with me more than anything else. Here's a quote from my lovely friend Leslie that has just pierced my heart today....

"We need to focus on the Cross-- the REALITY of the cross, not the "pretty" cross.

Think about that. I know I will be....

Stream of consciousness...

2009-10-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

I. Am. Tired. This week is dragging on.

I love my students. They make me laugh. Smile. Want to pull my hair out. Stifle laughter when I really SHOULDNT let them know I think they're funny. Cry. Sad. Disappointed. Proud of their success. Have a better day. Have a worse day. Want to be a better person. See the good in the small things. See potential in the unlikely. Exhausted.

Parker pretty much cracks me up. She is an absolutely hilarious little girl. She had so much energy, joy, and zest for life. She makes me want to be a better person/mom/friend/etc. She is so smart and loving and sensitive. She's pretty much the best kid ever.

Community group tonight. I love them so much. They are an amazing group of people to walk through life with! And I'm super pumped because tonight is Cohen's first night at cgroup!! It's the first newborn baby for the LP group and I am thrilled!

I'm watching CSI and blogging from my iPhone. By the way, my iPhone doesn't have a name (like several people I know) but if it did... I think it would be Ellie. Ha. Gonna go do something more productive now.

Crazy Love?

2009-10-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

I am a reader. I love, love books. But I'm more of a "fiction book" fan because I love a good STORY. But I'm about to read Crazy Love by Francis Chan. A little nervous. Slightly intimidated. Ready to be challenged. Anything that is subtitled "Overwhelmed By a Relentless God" is bound to instill a little... shall we say... holy hesitation? I'm already a bit overwhelmed after reading these lines in the Preface: "This book is... for those who don't want to plateau, those who would rather die before their convictions do." and "Come with me on this journey. I don't promise it will be painless." YIKES. We'll see how this goes.

Here's to reading nonfiction. Truth. Challenges.

Football and Blessings

2009-10-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

New pics of Parker posted on the family blog...

We went to the Central-Catholic game tonight, but insanely huge crowd + Parker wanting to run around + fear of my car getting stuck as more and more people put ruts in the extremely, extremely muddy parking area= totally stressed out Janee. I love my Cats, but I really, really didn't want to deal with a stuck car at the end of the game when Parker was exhausted and ready to go home. That rain this morning completely destroyed the field where people park at Wildcat Stadium, and I really believe that the longer I stayed, the less likely it would've been for me to get out! So I'm listening to the boys totally run over Catholic High... 53-6 at the end of the 3rd quarter!!! I remember the days where Central simply could. not. beat. Catholic High.

I love teaching at "my" school. Everything is just so much more exciting for me! I am so, so blessed to be in a place where I feel "at home." I love my coworkers, bosses, students... it's such a great place for me to be! I mean, come on, I'm even excited about FOOTBALL! I'm so proud of the football players I taught last year and the ones I'm teaching now. Not only are they great athletes, they are incredible kids! I'm so glad they're doing so well!

So go check out pics of mini-cheerleader Parker on the other blog!

Baby Cohen

2009-09-30T17:49:00.001-07:00

My precious, precious friend Jessica had her sweet baby boy on Monday, and I am so excited! It has been a while since one of my good friends had a baby!! We got to go see Cohen at the hospital the day he was born, and I thought I'd share a few pics of this tiny little man! (He was 5lb 13oz!)

I am so proud of Jess- she is such a great mom already!! I can't wait to watch sweet little Cohen grow up!!

Joy

2009-09-27T19:18:00.000-07:00

Last week in community group, we discussed JOY... We looked at several scriptures that talk specifically about how God is joyful. One of those verses is Zephaniah 3:17-- "the Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you with his love; he will exult over you with loud singing." I have always really liked this verse, but then we took it a step further. Basically, the summary of our discussion was this..

We, as Christians, are designed to reflect that joy back to Him and to the world. That joy isn't something we can create on our own, it is something that requires our dependence on Him! He commands us to be joyful ("rejoice in the Lord always; I say it again, rejoice!"). So if we are commanded to be joyful, it is a sin NOT to be joyful???? God has joy in ME! how could I possibly NOT have joy in HIM??!

So, this is tough. Basically, joy exceeds my circumstances. It surpasses just surface happiness. So my motto for now is "Today, I will choose joy!"

Where I've Been.... And Where I WANT to Be...

2009-09-22T19:48:00.001-07:00

So I've obviously been the biggest blog slacker EVER lately, both here and on Parker's blog. I've been... well.. working! Ha. And letting life take over and staying too "busy" with things that don't really matter. (As well as things that DO matter, don't get me wrong!) Tonight's Community Group really challenged me, which I will blog about SOON (I promise!), but then I got in my car, plugged in my iPhone, and opened Pandora. And THIS hit me...

Shane and Shane- "In You"

I sing for joy
In my remorse
A well within prosperity’s curse
That drowns the mighty oak of pride
But feeds the root of God inside.

In You
I find my rest
In You
I find my death
In You
I find my all and my emptiness
Somehow it all makes sense

In You I’m rich
When I’ve been made poor
Comfort found when I mourn
The prideful one You see from afar
Drawing near to low, broken hearts.

In You
I find my rest
In You
I find my death
In You
I find my all and my emptiness
But it all makes sense

Obviously God works in many ways, including the Pandora app on the iPhone. More later... but in summary.

Where I've Been: Busy-ness

Where I WANT to Be: In HIM

Music Monday-The Power of Your Name

2009-09-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

We recently started singing this song at church, and I LOVE it. If you have time, watch the video behind the song too.... it makes the song way cooler! : )

Surely children weren't made for the streets
And fathers were not made to leave
Surely this isn't how it should be
Let Your Kingdom come

Surely nations were not made for war
Or the broken meant to be ignored
Surely this just can't be what You saw
Let Your Kingdom come
Here in my heart

I will live
To carry Your compassion
To love a world that's broken
To be Your hands and feet
I will give
With the life that I've been given
And go beyond religion

To see the world be changed
By the power of Your name

Surely life wasn't made to regret
And the lost were not made to forget
Surely faith without action is dead
Let Your Kingdom come
Lord break this heart

Your name
Is a shelter for the hurting
Jesus Your name
Is a refuge for the weak
Only Your name
Can redeem the undeserving
Jesus Your name
Holds everything I need

Wordless Wednesday- Wildcat Fan Edition

2009-09-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

(Will Briscoe is the Wildcat quarterback and my former student!)

A Most Special Lady

2009-09-01T16:12:00.000-07:00

My senior year of high school, I had the joy and privilege of getting to know one of the most amazing people I would probably ever meet. To me, a 17-year-old high school student, Whitney Taylor was simply one of the most joyful people I had ever met. She did pretty much everything with a smile on her face and the joy of the Lord in her heart. As I got to know her better over the years to follow, I saw that her life and everything about her pointed others to the joy of Christ. Whitney, even with the struggles she faced living with cerebral palsy, knew the meaning of trusting in the Lord far better than I did; probably far better than I do even now. It is with great sadness that I learned that her battle with an aggressive brain tumor is now complete, but it is with overwhelming joy that I rejoice in the fact that she is now dancing in the streets of Heaven. Whitney's life reflected Christ in so many ways, and she and her family have been such a blessing to so many people. Her favorite hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul," is both a challenge and an encouragement....

(Two of my favorite verses)
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Whatever my lot.... Whitney knew how to embrace that line. WHATEVER life gave her, it was well with her soul because of the precious Savior she loved so dearly. Thank you, Taylor family, for giving us the honor of knowing and loving Whitney.

It is well with my soul.

I know, I know...

2009-08-30T14:30:00.000-07:00

It's been a super long time since I blogged... But to my defense, I did go back to work two weeks go! School is now in full swing and I haven't quite adjusted back to the schedule yet! A new, real post complete with pics will be up in the next few days!!

Thankful Thursday

2009-08-13T15:06:00.001-07:00

Today, I'm thankful for

time with my co-workers... they make coming back to work so much fun!

planning ahead... so I'm not stressed about the first day on Monday.

Parker

Trent

Big Brother (Yes, I know this is silly)

Not Me Monday

2009-08-10T18:15:00.000-07:00

Each week, I thoroughly enjoy MckMama's Not Me Monday. I also love to read Ashlee's installment each week. So, this time I decided to join in the fun, and tell you about the things I most certainly DID NOT do this week!

I did NOT wear my two year old's hot pink polka dot sunglasses to drive to Walmart because I left mine on the kitchen counter. Not me!! I would never ever tell my child that I didn't have any glasses for her to wear, knowing hers were being stretched out to fit my head.

I most certainly did not wake up one morning this week to find that my always clean, always perfect 2-year-old had taken off her diaper, and there was *poop* on her bedroom floor. An hour after cleaning up said poop, I did not return to her bedroom to find that my totally house trained, well behaved 3 year old Yorkie had peed on the carpet. Nope, that most certainly did not happen at MY house this week.

I did NOT un-evenly space bulletin boards in my classroom, only to have a group of students tell me I could create a "pattern" from the mistake. I also most certainly did not actually heed their advice and turn the "mistake" into a nicely "patterned" display.

I also did NOT velcro a framed poster to my classroom wall with industrial strength velcro. That would be absolutely ridiculous. So if you ever enter my classroom, you certainly won't find multiple things attached by velcro.

I did NOT buy notebooks I don't need just so I could re-cover them with scrapbook paper to make them "cute." I would NEVER do such a thing!

I may alternate Not Me Monday with Music Monday from now on! : )

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday

2009-08-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

Running from Poppa with the water hose

Music Monday- Parker style

2009-08-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

Parker's version of "Jesus Loves Me"

Jesus.. I know..

For da Bible ah ah SO

YEEEESSSSSS.....

Jesus... I know....

(repeat until distracted)

Parker's version of the Alphabet song

A, B, C, D, E, F, G, ala- lala P. A, B, C, D, X

Parker's version of "Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed"

Monkeys jump on da bed

Ah fell off a bah a head.

Mommy doctor said

Ah Ah Monkeys jump da bed.

Real Words... for those of you who don't know.

Five little monkeys jumpin' on the bed.

One fell off and bonked his head.

Momma called the doctor and the doctor said

NO MORE MONKEYS jumpin' on the bed.

Ah, Sunday!

2009-08-02T06:37:00.000-07:00

So I'm pretty sure that it hasn't hit me that I go back to work in a week and a half. I am excited, but I have SO MUCH TO DO and I'm running out of time to get it done!! I really need to finish working in my classroom (putting up the new bulletin boards I wanted to do, cleaning off my desk that still has last year's junk on/in it, organizing the textbooks in the front of my room to make textbook distribution go smoother). Then I also want to go ahead and start making copies of things for the first week of school, since I know there will be a MAD rush for the copier on in-service days. Blah.

Then there are the projects "at home" that I want to do that I know won't happen once I'm back at work... painting, sewing, scrapbooking, making bows, etc.

I think the thing I'm most sad about "giving up" once I go back to work (other than the obvious- Parker!) is the Stay at Home Mom's Bible study I've been going to with the ladies from our wonderful church. I have so enjoyed their friendship, fellowship, encouragement, prayer support... the list could go on and on. Sad.

Amazingly, Parker is STILL ASLEEP and it's 8:40! Of course, I am wide awake because Trent got up to do yardwork. I should've started painting, but I had no idea when she'd wake up. Oh well.

Forgot to Tell You Friday

2009-07-31T08:40:00.000-07:00

I went to Corks N Canvas with Tiff yesterday and painted a fleur de lis. It's now hanging up in our bedroom! We had SO MUCH FUN. I'd love to do this again, but instead of going to the place to do it, just getting together with some friends for a girls night and finding something online to try to "model" a painting after.... that, or I'm pretty sure there are a few artsy people out there that I'm friends with who could EASILY "lead" a "class" like they do at C-n-C. Definitely something I want to do again, though.

Work starts in a week and a half. While I am really excited about getting back in to my "routine" and meeting all of my new students, I'm also dreading waking up at 5:20 and also leaving Parker.

We're going swimming tonight with Tiff and Bryan. I can't wait! Other than vacation, Parker has not been in a "big pool" all summer!

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Ben Brown, particularly his wife Ragan. I don't know either one of them, but I have some friends who know Ragan pretty well. I'm just praying for God's peace that passes all understanding to pour into her life during this awful time.

Tell Me About It... a day late..

2009-07-29T17:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm totally just copying it from my Facebook, but here's a new post!

1. I cannot go to Hobby Lobby without buying a bag of Old Fashioned Creme Drops candy. I used to eat them at my grandparents' house as a child, so it's a sentimental thing.

2. Target is one of my favorite places to buy clothes for myself and for Parker. I got a pair of shoes there this morning.

3. I have two tattoos- a pink fleur de lis on my left hip, and a dove with an olive branch on my left foot. I want one more... but I'm not sure where I want to put it yet.

4. I gave up drinking caffeine *AGAIN*. I hope it sticks this time.

5. I am completely obsessed with Sweet Tea. Seriously. I love it.

6. Trent and I saw the movie "In Good Company" on our first date, after a dinner at J. Alexander's.

7. My favorite restaurant (currently) is Islamorada (in the Bass Pro). I order the same thing every time- Islamorada Portofino.

8. I have never worked in food service or retail. Even in high school/college, my jobs were office-based.

9. I have taught English I, English III, and English IV-AP. English III is by far my favorite. It's totally not the subject, but the kids are a great age!

10. I actually started to like football after Central High's great season last year.

11. If I had to choose one sport as a "favorite" to watch, it would totally be Olympic diving. Ok... normal sport? Baseball.

12. Parker's middle name, Ann, was my Aunt Deborah's middle name. Unfortunately, she never got to meet Parker, but when Parker is old enough, she will definitely hear ALL about her namesake.

13. Trent wants my next vehicle (in the future) to be a mid-sized SUV. I am terrified of driving anything bigger than my Camry.

14. Parker just hit me in the head with an alligator puzzle piece. She wants to type. Ha!

15. My yorkie, Jackson, is named after former LSU baseball & football player Chris Jackson.

16. I have never owned "expensive sunglasses" because I would probably break or lose them within the first week.

17. I love to read, and even though I fought the Twilight series for about 2 years, I totally gave in and am slightly obsessed. Is there a Team Emmett? If so, I'm totally on it. If not, I guess I'll settle for Team Jacob.

18. The last movie I saw in the theater was The Proposal. I completely loved it.

19. I used to have a total celebrity crush on Matthew Mcconaughey. Recently, Ryan Reynolds has taken over his place in my heart. I mean, have you SEEN his abs???

20. I totally love the fact that Trent has a shaved head and tattoos.

21. I just got an iPhone earlier this month, and it's pretty much my favorite "gadget" ever.

22. If I were going to be on a reality t.v. show, I would COMPLETELY love to be on Big Brother. Unfortunately, my life is way too boring to ever be chosen.

23. If I were ever going to audition for American Idol (which I'm not- but thanks for asking!), I would sing "Feels Like Home" by Chantal Kreviazuk. It's on the "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" soundtrack.

24. I bought a sewing machine earlier this summer, and I love to sew. I wish I knew how to do more.

25. I really, really wish I had more artistic talent. I want to start painting.

Simple Saturday

2009-07-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

Oh how Parker makes me laugh!! My new favorite... When she's upset, but not upset enough to cry, she says "I cryin'! I cryin'!" in this whiny little voice! So funny!

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-23T18:08:00.000-07:00

Today, I am mostly thankful for two things:

Great friends, especially other "mom" friends
Naps

Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-22T13:03:00.001-07:00

Tell Me About It...

2009-07-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

So here's my first shot at "Tell Me About it Tuesday"....

School starts in 3 weeks. Yuck! But as much as I dread it, I'm also a little bit excited! I spent a good part of Monday working on getting things ready. My co-worker Abby helped me hang fabric for my bulletin boards, now I've just got to actually put something ON the fabric. I also want to paint part of my wall with chalkboard paint... there are currently two chalkboard panels, but they are that hideously nasty green color- you know, like baby poop green- so they need help! I also did a lot of paperwork- re-vamping my syllabus, working on new vocabulary stuff, and trying to find/re-do/organize handouts for the first few weeks of school. I really want to make some copies and beat the copier rush that I know will take place during our in-service days.

I am really enjoying this season of Big Brother, but I find myself believing sometimes that the houseguests really ARE in high school. Yikes. Ronnie, you have got to chill! And Laura... wow. Just wow. So far, Casey is my definite front-runner favorite, and I like Lydia a lot as well. Jordan is cute, but... I just don't know.

I watched The Bachelorette- The Men Tell All. OMG.. these guys are RIDICULOUS. I'm a little puzzled about why they needed two hours of that madness.

This week is a busy week. Monday was "school stuff day"... my parents had Parker for most of the morning/early afternoon. Tuesday (today!) is our lunch date with some of my ZHS coworkers!! I am so pumped! Wednesday is SAHM Bible Study (hooray!), Thursday is our Whitty Playdate! WOOHOO! Lots of fun things!

Music Monday- "No Not One"

2009-07-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Trent bought me Christy Nockels' latest CD, Life Light Up. I listened to it for the first time this morning. Not only does it have some great songs we sing at The Ring, like "Hosanna" and "Marvelous Light", there's also this one... "No Not One"....

No better word than from Your lips
No perfect life than what You lived
No greater gift, no not one

No brighter star has ever shined
No better hope for all mankind
No higher mind, no not one

No one has ever known
This kind of love You've shown

There has never been a greater love
Than Your son
No, Not one
And there will never be a name above
No, Not one

With His life You have forgiven us
Hope has come
Hope has come
And there will never be a greater love
No, Not one

No image true or sweeter frame
No simple word can match Your name
No greater fame
No not one

No one has ever seen
The depth of Your majesty

No greater call - You gave us all a reason to live
No greater love - You gave us all a reason to give
No greater life - You gave us all a reason to shine
No greater love - forever mine!

I wish that I could say that these lyrics are always my focus and at the forefront of my mind. Sadly, life gets in the way sometimes and I tend to be more cynical. But, oh, how my heart desires to ALWAYS say "No, not one. There is not ONE thing more important than YOU in my life."

"Blog Schedule"

2009-07-20T11:00:00.001-07:00

In an attempt to try to post (almost) every day, I'm giving myself some "Guidelines" to post by...

Music Mondays- posting lyrics to a favorite song/something that has been speaking to me

Tell Me About it Tuesdays- Whatever I feel like "telling you about"

Wordless Wednesdays- Just a picture... and maybe a caption

Thankful Thursdays- Things I have to be thankful for that week

Forgot to tell you Fridays- random tidbits of info

Simple Saturdays- a one-liner or single thought post

Say What? Sundays- again, whatever I feel like saying! : )

Starting.... NOW!

I'd Need a Savior

2009-07-16T18:06:00.000-07:00

So I was listening to KLOVE this afternoon while we were driving home from Chik-Fil-A (I'd say that requires a double "shout out" to Jess! haha), and they played this song I'd never heard (or maybe never paid attention to) before. I really love what the lyrics said, so I wanted to post them!

I'd Need a Savior- by Among the Thirsty

How many names can I use to explain the love of my Jesus,
the life that he gave and so many times will I praise you today.
I lift up my life ‘cause you’re always the same
And my offering to you I bring

Chorus:
Your name is Jesus. Your name is Jesus.
You’re the Wonderful, Counselor, my Friend.
You’re what I hold on to; I know that you brought me through
All the days of loss, to the cross you knew
I’d need a Savior.

How many songs can I sing to proclaim your wondrous love and beauty so great?
What would I say if you brought down the rain and everyday
I walk through the pain my heart would still say…

Chorus:

You’re what I hold on to; I know that you brought me through
All the days of loss, to the cross you knew
I’d need a Savior.
I’d need a Savior
I need you, Savior

Big Brother

2009-07-12T07:53:00.001-07:00

I'll admit it. I am obsessed with Big Brother. I watched it with my mom starting from Season 1, and it's one of my favorite summer guilty pleasures! I even got Trent to start watching it with me while we were dating. But I must say, this season already intrigues me the most!

High school can either be the BEST time of your life, or the WORST. So I think it's really interesting that they're basing this season around the high school clique idea. I almost feel sorry for the poor people in the house!

But I must say, it really wouldn't surprise me if the "Brains" and the "Off Beat" decide to band together and get rid of the "Popular" and the "Athletes"... and I think Jessie from last season better cool it with his "I'm so amazing, my arms are so huge, look at how gorgeous and strong I am" business or he's gonna find his (incredible fit, I'm sure) butt walking out the door early!!

Moms' Bible Study

2009-07-09T12:30:00.000-07:00

So this summer, I have had the amazing privilege to meet weekly with some of the other moms from our church. We are about to start a new Bible study called "Shepherding a Child's Heart" and I'm super pumped about it. Yesterday, Meg, who leads the study, gave us these six points to remember... I know a lot of the people who read my blog are actually IN the Bible study, but for those moms who read this who weren't there, I want to share these things! Great wisdom to remember...

1. My children are a gift from God and should be considered a blessing!

-James 1:16-18; Psalm 127

2. I am called by God to raise my children!

-Ephesians 2:10

3. I have been given everything I need to do this... I just have to use it!

-2 Peter 1:3

4. My labor, no matter how seemingly tedious and fruitless, is not in vain!

-1 Corinthians 15:58; Proverbs 22:6

5. Even when I'm weary, His empowerment is available!

-2 Corinthians 9:8; Jude 24-25

6. I cannot do this apart from Him.

I'm trying to encourage myself in these things. Even though Parker isn't really at the age where I have to discipline her a WHOLE lot (I mean, yes, we do get timeouts for throwing dog food or climbing on Jackson's kennel in an attempt to get on the kitchen counter), I know that it is never to early to start preparing MY heart for the "tougher" parenting as she grows and develops her personality even more. I can't wait to see what God teaches me through this study and the women who are walking through it with me!

Do We Look Alike?

2009-07-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

Parker at 23 months

Me at 25 months

To Do List...of Un-Fun Stuff

2009-06-29T16:43:00.000-07:00

Anyone wanna help??

Clean out desk in the bedroom and throw away anything that hasn't been used in the last 6 months and isn't an "important document"
Clean out closet in the office (same criteria as desk)
Clean out junk in Parker's closet that isn't hers and has been there since before she was born
Clean "craft corner" in the office/consolidate storage containers
Find a mattress for our futon (Anyone know where I can find one for a good deal?)
Clean out the kitchen junk drawer

Needed a Laugh...

2009-06-25T19:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've totally seen things from the Cake Wrecks blog before, but tonight, I really took the time to browse the sight... and have laughed my behind off! Seriously, I probably look like a fool sitting in our office by myself laughing hysterically! So if you need a laugh, check it out. It won't disappoint!

Favorite things...

2009-06-24T15:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I did a "summer favorite things" earlier in the summer, but I have so much to add!

LSU BASEBALL!! WOOHOO!!
manicures/pedicures- I totally got my first one today since last fall.
working air conditioners- thanks to my amazing bro-in-law Chris, mine now falls back in that category
justice- I'm so thankful for the man who SAW the woman who hit my car in the parking lot, since she didn't stop.
adoption- particularly cindy foote's blog of Gracie-Lu's adoption
etsy- i can't wait to show everyone pics of my new necklace, ring, and purse i bought. the ring and necklace both shipped yesterday, and the girl making the purse emailed me and said the fabric came in and she's working on it, so it should ship this weekend!
rain. enough said.
the bachelorette- so, I mentioned this the last time, but i'm both loving and hating this season. so fun.
big brother- it comes on SOON!
army wives- agh! so glad michael holden came back home, joan may not deploy, and roxy isn't gonna lose the bar.
Karen Kingsbury books- the new one is out! barnes and noble or lifeway, i am coming to visit you ASAP!
swimming pools- particularly of the "kid" variety... keeping parker entertained! woo!
sahm Bible study- i love, love, love the women of the ring and their selflessness and transparency. each of these ladies has been SUCH a blessing this summer (well, beyond that, but especially this summer)
our church- what more can i say?
Jesus- for teaching me so many things i've been running from for a long time... and for staying faithful even as i've run
restored friendships
my marriage and my daughter
life

Beach Trip

2009-06-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

We're at the beach. We come home tomorrow, and I'll try to post more pics then, but here's one!

Etsy

2009-06-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

So I'm now pretty much obsessed with Etsy.com I recently purchased a precious customized necklace from The Vintage Pearl (see button on my sidebar) and am in the process of coming up with an order from Knitty Bitties. If you are on Etsy, PLEASE check both of them out, because they are incredibly, adorably, too stinkin' awesome. Also- I'm so excited for our friend Jenny from The Ring, who now has her own Etsy store... Jen and Ink. Check her out too, if you're looking for precious custom invitations, cute gifts, etc. Maybe I should open an Etsy for cards, bows, etc......

Coldplay

2009-06-12T18:33:00.000-07:00

Amber and Justin

Me and Trent

Becca Hill... next to us!

At the concert

Coldplay!!

Chris Martin with his crazy curly fro.... I like him better bald!

"Yellow"

Screen shots..

Smaller stage

Piano hands!

Crazy Confetti!

Viva la Vida

We saw Kayla, Keith, Kevin and Bryan after the concert

So... Tuesday night, Trent took me to my very first "real" concert. Not that Steven Curtis Chapman, Shane & Shane, Phil Wickham, etc. aren't "real" concerts... but they aren't "big venue" concerts. I had no idea what to expect; I only knew that I like Coldplay's music, and that it's always fun to hang out with our friends. I was completely blown away. The concert was absolutely incredible, and I'm so glad that I got to go. We had a great time with Amber and Justin (and Cody and Brittany for dinner!). There were, of course, a few random experiences, like running in to Faith Hardee (one of my sis's friends from middle school) in the hole-in-the-wall restaurant we ate at.... and the fact that Becca Hill was sitting RIGHT next to Justin and we didn't realize it til the opening band finished playing...

It was a great night!

Things I'm Excited About...

2009-06-08T13:54:00.000-07:00

my summer craft projects
Coldplay concert tomorrow
beach trip with the Mayers fam next week
Army Wives being back on
Parker's bday next month
being able to go to the SAHM Bible Study this summer
seeing the pics Kaylynn took of the fam

Arts and Crafts

2009-06-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

Parker has way too many bows, and they keep getting lost! So... I made her this bow-hanger!

Also, I'm working on a set of canvases for her bedroom... here's the first one I'm working on...

Videos

2009-05-27T16:45:00.001-07:00

Check out Parker's blog for new pics AND video!!

Summer's Guilty Pleasures

2009-05-26T15:40:00.001-07:00

Sleeping past 5:30

My scrapbook/craft corner of the office

Nap time

This sweet face

Family Feud

The Bachelorette

Flip Flops

Shorts from Old Navy

Cute cotton dresses

Pic A Day

2009-05-25T08:50:00.001-07:00

I'm going to try to do a Parker pic of the day every day over on our family blog! The first day is up now! : ) Check there to see what Little Miss is up to!

Arts & Crafts

2009-05-23T20:41:00.000-07:00

So for over 10 months, I've had this unfinished "project" sitting in a drawer. While Trent was at a movie and Parker was asleep, I decided to tackle this... a scrapbook of P's first birthday party. It's done on a chipboard book just covered with paper. I will bind it with three small rings, and tie brown and pink polka-dot ribbon around the rings. Here's the book...

Front Cover

Inside cover and page 1

Pages 2 & 3

Pages 4 & 5

Pages 6 &7

Pages 8 & 9

Pages 10&11

and the back cover is just solid brown.

Hopefully, I'll get to do more projects like this over the course of the summer!

Ab Ripper X??? What??

2009-05-20T19:26:00.000-07:00

So on Saturday, I decided to attempt about 4 minutes of Ab Ripper X (the ab workout from P90X) with Trent. Yes, 4 of the total 15. Come Sunday night, and all day Monday, my abs, thighs, and hip flexors were KILLING me, and every time I moved, I winced like a little old lady.

Tonight, I did 8 minutes. We'll see if I can walk/get out of bed tomorrow.

However, a small victory to report- thanks to the Abs Diet, I have officially lost ALL of my Parker weight. Hooray! It only took me 22 months to get back to my pre-Parker weight. Ha. Let's see if P90X can give me my pre-marriage abs! : ) Scratch that- I want better!

New Design!!

2009-05-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

I LOVE my new blog design, done by Kelly at FabulousKCreative. Hopefully this adorable new design will inspire me to blog more often!!

One Week!

2009-05-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

One week of school left, then I get to be a "stay at home mom" for the summer! While I am extremely, extremely excited about being at home with Parker, I know I will miss my "big kids" too. I have had a wonderful first year at Central, and I'll blog more about that later this week. For now, a few of my favorite stories from my big girl and my big kids at school.

In student research papers:

"Have you ever wondered what women were like in the 1900's? Well, I have did research, and let me tell you...." I have did? Really?

"In the book, Daisy only wanted one thing: money, and love." One thing? I mean, I know I teach English, but still??

*name changed to protect the innocent*

"Do you know why *Olivia* checked out? Because she had to go home to wash her hair. Someone told her it looked greasy, so she checked out."

Funnies/cute things Parker has said lately:

"Want shuggies Mommy?" (and then she came and gave me a kiss)

(after hearing me cough for the millionth time) "Coughin? Bless you!!"

"Want cammies! Want cammies!" (cammies= candy) "Baby, we don't have any candy here." "Want cammies! Want cammies! Go Ganny's. Want cammies!" (in other words- if you won't give me candy, I know Granny will!)

Cannons

2009-05-12T19:19:00.001-07:00

For some reason, this song has been on my heart ever since we sang it on Sunday night. It's a Phil Wickham song, titled "Cannons"... and it just really speaks to my heart this week. Especially the line that says "I'm so unworthy, but still you love me." Wow, what an amazing God... to love me, with all my mess and insecurity and failures and shortcomings... I am unworthy, but he loves me. Oh, and while I'm thinking about it, please pray for the Foote family, as their court date for the adoption of Lulu is tonight/tomorrow in Ethiopia!!

It’s falling from the clouds
A strange and lovely sound
I hear it in the thunder and rain
It’s ringing in the skies
Like cannons in the night
The music of the universe plays

You are holy great and mighty
The moon and the stars declare who You are
I’m so unworthy, but still You love me
Forever my heart will sing of how great You are

Beautiful and free
Song of Galaxies
It’s reaching far beyond the milky way
Lets join in with the sound
C’mon let’s sing it loud
As the music of the universe plays

All glory, honor, power is Yours amen

All glory, honor, power is Yours amen
All glory, honor, power is Yours forever amen

Mother's Day

2009-05-09T20:25:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day 2008-- My Maw Maw (Gloria Rayborn), me, Parker Ann, and my Mom (Jean Wilson)

Things I've learned from being Parker's mom:

You always have time to do the things that are important to you... even when you don't think you do.
God is bigger than anything the world may tell us- doctors, professionals, coworkers, etc. His opinion matters, and ultimately, He is in control.
Sometimes, routines are made to be broken.
Moms truly do have the hardest-and greatest- job in the world.
Sometimes you just have to ask for help. It's not a sign of weakness.
m&m's CAN make life better! So can a cup of milk and a warm blanket.
The best foods are fried!
Messes are only temporary.
Nap time is a gift.
God's love for us truly is without any sort of stipulation or demand. He loves us because we are His children. Even when we do things that are stupid and hurt His heart, He is still going to forgive us and love us simply because we are His. Not because of anything we do or don't do.
...and so much more.

Things I've learned from being Jean's daughter:

Love means sacrificing your own desires for others in your life. But sacrifice isn't necessarily giving something up for nothing- it's giving something up for the greater good of those around you.
Sometimes, you've just gotta dance.
Laughter truly can be the best medicine.
Gentleness and kindness go a long way.
There is always joy in the morning!
When you truly love and follow Christ, your life becomes a reflection of His love to the people around you.
There is nothing you can't get through without your family and God.
Prayer works.
True love is selfless.
God's love for us truly is without any sort of stipulation or demand. He loves us because we are His children. Even when we do things that are stupid and hurt His heart, He is still going to forgive us and love us simply because we are His. Not because of anything we do or don't do.

Coming Soon...

2009-05-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

My blog is getting a makeover! Yay! I've been blog-stalking this adorably funny new mom from Arkansas, whose blog I randomly found through another random-found blog, and she recently got a blog makeover from this site... so I decided I wanted a makeover too. Which means, with a makeover, I plan to start blogging more often. Stay tuned for a new look in the coming weeks!

SO MANY pictures!

2009-05-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

Spring Break zoo trip- on the way

the girls

more zoo fun

Parker and Mimi

Exhausted on the way home!

Playing in the pool!

With CC at a CHS softball game

Future athlete?

Checking out the CHS weight room

Sidewalk chalk!

Pigtails and Puppy!

Breakfast with Chastity

Aunt Jamie and Uncle Chris's wedding.....

Kallie and Kara

Pretty P

Me and Becca

Saying their vows

The new family!

Brothers and Sister!

Kara, Gerad, and Kallie

Our family

Chris and Jamie's Cake

First Dance

Parker and Daddy

Cutting the cake

All the grandkids

Mommy and Sweet P

me with Jamie

Money Dance

Dancing with Daddy

Aquarium trip for Mimi's birthday......

BFFs

Family

Girls and their daddies

Playing on the slide

Sleepy girls

Mimi's 2nd birthday party

The Ring's Day in the Park....

Parker and Jack-Jack

Mimi and Parker

Parker and Dustin

Jumping with Mrs. Jess

Sitting in the shade with Daddy

Trace and Parker

Nannee and Mimi

Playing with Mommy's crawfish.. she wouldn't eat it

Spring Break!

2009-04-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a long time since I've updated. I've just been busy with work, Parker, etc. But now... IT'S SPRING BREAK!

Here's a list of things I hope to accomplish:

Decide on a theme for Parker's birthday party and start making her invitations-Theme: Fun in the Sun (I think!)
Go through Parker's toys and put some in the attic
Go for a walk at least 3 days- Day One- CHECK!
Take Parker to play at the park
Visit with Erica and Chastity
Get together with some friends
Make a variety of random cards to have ready for weddings/babies/birthdays
grade all of the make-up work my students turned in yesterday
finish my prep for the research paper
get stuff together to teach The Five People You Meet in Heaven- Talked to Erica, will get her stuff!
do some cleaning
visit with Lindsey at some point

More later...

UPDATE: Items in Red- partially completed. Items in Purple- completed!

Day one: Zoo Trip with Layni & Mimi, Shelley & Camille, and Becky & Quint, J.D., Reace, and Aryee/ Swimming at Ganny and Poppa's

Day two: Hobby Lobby & Walmart trip; Softball game at CHS; Community Group hang out night

Day three: Ring Moms Bible study; played around the house; made bows

Day four: Scrapbook store; visit with Lindsey; cleaning; Jamie & Chris' wedding rehearsal

Fitness?, Family Fun, "Forgotten" Talent

2009-02-21T11:38:00.000-08:00

So... it's official. I'm eating healthier thanks to my health-conscious hubby. And by "eating healthier," I mean really going all out. About a month ago, I decided to quit drinking caffeine/carbonated drinks. After several days of headaches, it actually was easy to "resist temptation." I'm also cutting most sweets, limiting carbs, and boosting my intake of protein/fruit/veggies. I feel so much better, and I've already lost 4 1/2 lbs. in the last 4 weeks. Yay! Now, I'm gonna TRY to start going walking/running with Layni. We'll see! Hopefully I can do it. We did take the girls for a walk yesterday and I felt pretty good!

We've been spending more "family time" together, doing random things such as visiting Chuck E Cheese, family pictures with Amanda Causey, dinner, shopping, birthday parties, and hanging out with our friends the Reynersons. Above are a few of the pics Amanda took.

Tomorrow night, and then again this weekend, I get to sing with Nathan and the guys to lead worship at a couple of different church events. I am SO EXCITED! I'll let you know how it goes!

Hosanna

2009-01-15T17:08:00.000-08:00

I see the King of Glory,

Coming on the clouds with fire.

The whole earth shakes,

The whole earth shakes.

I see His love and mercy

Washing over all our sin.

The people sing,

The people sing.

Hosanna, Hosanna,

Hosanna in the highest!

I see a generation,

Rising up to take their place.

With selfless faith,

With selfless faith.

I see a near revival

Stirring as we pray and seek.

We're on our knees,

We're on our knees.

Hosanna, Hosanna,

Hosanna in the highest.

Heal my heart and make it clean.

Open up my eyes to the things unseen.

Show me how to love like you have loved me.

Break my heart for what breaks yours.

Everything I am for your kingdom's cause.

As I walk from earth into eternity.

I'm really trying to sincerely pray that last verse for my life each day. Especially the "Show me how to love like you have loved me." and the "Break my heart for what breaks yours." It's a day-to-day process.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Resolutions...

Eat healthier.

Love fully.

Doubt less.

Pray more.

I think these pretty much cover it!

Pics

2008-12-27T12:08:00.000-08:00

Christmas pics are up on Parker's site.. www.allenfamilylsu.blogspot.com

Snow Pictures

2008-12-11T17:35:00.000-08:00

just a few random highlights/thoughts

2008-12-07T09:11:00.000-08:00

the CHS football team. Even though they lost Friday night to Destrehan, I am SO proud of them. The football players I teach are truly phenomenal young men, on the field, in the classroom, etc. Great job, kiddos!
taking Parker to the Messengers to see the Christmas lights. I loved family time with Trent and our sweet baby girl. It was fun to see her experience something new.
Central Christmas Parade yesterday morning with Trent's mom and his sister & her family. Again, another "new" experience for Parker (since she slept through most of the parade last year).
my little sister is amazing, and she makes me proud. Always. End of discussion.
I'm gonna make our Christmas cards this year, and I think they're gonna be really cute.
pancake dinner at church tonight. I mean, really, can it get any better?
thinking about going back to school to get certified to teach special ed. Prayers please.
praying that God opens the door for a dear sweet friend to work at CHS with me!

Thankful

2008-11-26T18:37:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for:

an amazing husband who loves me and loves his little girl.
a beautiful daughter who blesses me and teaches me new things every single day.
the way that God has completely worked in and through Parker's life over the last year.
wonderful parents who are a great example of a Godly relationship, and who so selflessly give of themselves each day.
an incredible little sister who makes me so proud each and every day.
great friends who encourage and challenge me.
restored relationships- healed in ways that only GOD could have.
the greatest job in the world.
students who teach me as much as I attempt to teach them.
the way God continues to teach me new things.
a truly wonderful church family and Community Group.

The list could go on and on and on.

What are you thankful for?

Ribbons

2008-11-21T18:56:00.000-08:00

So my last post referred to the superstition of the Spirit Ribbons.

Today, we didn't have them.

Because we're in the playoffs, the cheerleaders weren't able to order any in time.

So we made one. I said I wanted to, and D'Shea rose to the occasion.

I believe it says "Crush the Crusaders" "Go Cats" and "Come Get You Some." Ha.

And guess what....

WILDCATS WIN!! 13-7 over Brother Martin High School. In the last play of the game, Brother Martin goes for a tie-breaking field goal. Central blocks the field goal, AND RUNS IT BACK FOR A TOUCHDOWN!!!!!

I love my Cats!

Superstition

2008-11-14T19:31:00.000-08:00

So I mentioned yesterday that we had a pep rally for a playoff game. What I did NOT mention was how hilarious I think my football players can be! Let me give a little background.

I teach the majority of the juniors on the football team, so I've definitely taken more interest in high school football than ever before. And since Central is my alma mater, I decided to be a little more school-spirited than I was at Zachary. (As proven by yesterday's story, haha) So every Friday, I get a spirit ribbon from the cheerleaders, and use the little silver football sticker to tack it to my "What's Going On?" bulletin board in the front of my room. Each Monday morning, I take a permanent marker and write in the score from that game, and whether we won or loss. (Thankfully, there was only one loss, and instead of the "L," it just got a sad face, haha)

A few weeks ago, I noticed that my first hour football players were a little "concerned" if I hadn't posted the score by the time we started class. So I got to be pretty good at making that a part of my before-school routine on Mondays.

Last Friday, I was out sick, so the ribbon didn't get put up. This meant I didn't have the score up by the end of 1st hour on Monday. My players were a little antsy about it, but understood that I was "catching up" from being out. The coach who has class in my room 2nd hour even questioned me about it, so we fixed the problem and got the ribbon/score posted. *Crisis averted, apparently.* The quarterback, who is in my first hour, also informed me that the reason he threw 3 interceptions last Friday was because I was not at school, and I "threw off" his whole day.

Fast forward to today. The cheerleaders were running short on spirit ribbons, and were not going to have enough to make it to all of the classes. But they were informed that Mrs. Allen HAD to have a ribbon to put up, and made sure I got one of the first ones. I thought this was hilarious. Of course, I immediately stuck it up on the board.

Superstition.

Well, call it superstition, or sheer talent, or God's grace....

WE WON TONIGHT! (And yes, I say "we", because apparently I'm somehow helping the team.) Central won it's first home football playoff game since 1977!!! We will travel (well, they will... I'm not going!) to Brother Martin HS in New Orleans next weekend.

Guess what I'll do on Monday morning? 44-12 "W" Consider it done, boys.

I love my job. I love my Wildcats.

I've Got Spirit, Yes I Do

2008-11-13T16:58:00.000-08:00

Busy, crazy work week. Our volleyball team made it to the state playoffs after winning the Bi-District Championship over Bonnebel High School (from New Orleans). Unfortunately, fell to St. Thomas More in the first round, but I am SUPER proud of my sister and her teammates for the INCREDIBLE season they had this year.

Tomorrow, the District Champion CHS Football team will be hosting a home playoff game against West Jefferson High (out of New Orleans). In honor of this HUGE event, we had a pep rally today. Yes. On a Thursday. Which means completely wild kids on Thursday because of a pep rally, and completely wild kids on Friday because it's Friday and the day of a playoff game. But I digress.

Pep rallies are interesting events to me. At Zachary, we had one for pretty much every home game. I was always... and I mean ALWAYS... that teacher HIDING from the cheerleaders so as not to get conned in to participating in any games/dance-offs/otherwise embarrassing activities. And I succeeded. For three straight years, I was NEVER caught!

Which brings us to today, when I conveniently "hid" myself in the bleachers, amidst the children, next to my sister and her friends. Most teachers don't brave the bleachers; they stand along the side wall and observe from afar. Phew, safe. Not with other teacher-y people. So when they call for 10 student volunteers, and 10 teacher volunteers, Mrs. Allen is safely hidden away in the stands.

Or not. Thank you, football players that I teach/get annoyed by/know because they're CC's friends. Thank you, CC. Thank you, varsity cheerleader from my 1st hour class. Thank you, every student who shouted "Mrs. Allen! Mrs. Allen!' Thanks to you, I had to face my worst nightmare/biggest fear/most intimidating teacher situation. I had to compete, with my colleagues, in a contest. Fortunately, it was not anything like "Who can 'Walk it Out' the best" or a pie-eating contest, or blind folded basketball. All we had to do was stand in a circle, holding hands, and pass a hula hoop from one person to the next by stepping through it.

I've got spirit. That was for you, football players that I teach. That was for you, oh Homecoming Queen/Ms. Senior/baby sister. That was for you, B.

Because I was shaking the whole time. And I thought I might throw up.

But I've got spirit.

Identity Crisis

2008-11-10T17:50:00.001-08:00

For the last few weeks, our church has been discussing "identity." Specifically, our identity in Christ has been the topic at hand. (Which would make sense, being that it is church and all!) We've talked about how being in Christ totally changes our identity.

I struggle with this.

When I first started writing this blog, I listed all of the things that "define" my identity. They're all pretty much "surface level" things in light of my identity in Christ. We've been singing this song in church called... surprise, surprise.... Identity. I won't include ALL of the lyrics 'cause it's long, but here's part of it:

"You are love, so I am love;

You are joy and so I am joy

You are peace, so I am peace

Lord, everything You are now becomes me

And the line between where You begin

And where I end is gone

I'm in You- I know who I am

You're my true, born identity

And I'm not the one I used to be

'Cause now there is no separating You

From who I am"

Um, yeah, I love this song. But I hate it. Because it's scary. And a little intimidating. The line that says "Now there is no separating You from who I am"... yeah, that's a hard one for me. I love the fact that nothing can separate me from Christ... but... umm... sometimes, I'm not so proud of me... and I wish I could separate Christ from that icky part of me that I'm embarrassed to tie him to. That's what boggles me about God's grace and love for me. He doesn't care that I'm icky. He knew I would be. But, wow, how I struggle to not have guilt issues when I'm not so proud of who I am in the part of me that is sinful and... well... human. Thankfully, God is God, and his idea of my identity is covered with SO MUCH GRACE.

So I guess what it all comes down to is this... do I accept my identity in Christ? Am I willing to see myself as He sees me? I'm learning.

History Today

2008-11-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

The God in control yesterday is still in control today. He was not elected and He cannot be dethroned!

That statement came from a respected friend's Facebook status, posted this morning. How true those words are. Regardless of my opinions and viewpoints, God knew the results of the election before the first vote was ever even cast. His plans are much greater than mine, and HE is in control. Far be it from me to question or doubt His divine wisdom.

Regardless of my political preference, or my candidate choice, or my thoughts on things, I serve a great God who promises to "cause all things to work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28) I think these things are something that we all need to keep in perspective, whether we supported Obama, McCain, or another candidate altogether.

As for me, I will respect the authority God has put before me, and I will trust Him, because He is the King of Kings.

Life

2008-10-15T16:21:00.000-07:00

JOB: I haven't really talked much about my "new" job (not that it's new anymore), so let me just fill you in on things. I LOVE being a Wildcat again. As I mentioned in my post "Blessed" at the beginning of the school year, I truly am blessed to be at Central. As much as I loved Zachary, I am ecstatic about my job now. I am so much happier in general. I feel less stressed, and I am getting more time with Parker, and it's also really fun to "go to school" with my sister. I have a great boss, great coworkers, and I am really loving teaching English III. I was really nervous since I hadn't ever taught juniors before, but I am having a blast. Dawn and I work really well planning together, and Rachel's experience with English III helps us out so much too. (They're the other junior teachers.)

PARKER: Parker is doing SO well, as you have probably read on her blog. She is such a sweet, happy little girl. Right now, she is talking to me and eating fish sticks! (and sharing them with Jackson, haha) I am truly blessed to have such a great little girl who brings so much joy to so many people.

TRENT: Today is Trent's 26th birthday! Happy birthday to him! He is, of course, glad that it's hunting season and that the grass doesn't have to be cut as often, etc. I continue to feel blessed to be married to him.

CHURCH: We also recently started going to a community group with our church. We have wanted to be a part of a group for so long, but it hadn't worked out until recently. We are so excited to meet with our friends at Cody and Brittany's each Tuesday. I am really grateful to be a part of a small group Bible study again. It's so encouraging, and it's really fun to be a part of a group who come from so many different places of life. Newlyweds, married for a while, engaged, dating, single mom, foster parents, etc. God really knit together a unique group of people to study His word and live out "Community" together. I love it!

MY HEART: God has still been heavily placing adoption and related topics on my heart. I follow several "adoption" blogs, and I get so excited about the things God is doing in this area. We continue to pray about when we will hopefully adopt! November is "Adoption Awareness Month," so expect to hear adoption related things on my blog over the next few weeks!

Homecoming

2008-09-29T19:49:00.001-07:00

Well, I survived my first CHS Homecoming as a teacher. There are pictures on Parker's blog, and more to come soon. I am SUPER proud of my sister for winning Homecoming queen. Parker dressed up in a mini version of the Kittens' silvers (the dance team at CHS) and was super cute for the HC game! I've been really busy with work, watching CC play volleyball, and keeping up with Parker!

I'll update again soon.. something a little more thought provoking.

Gustav

2008-09-05T06:38:00.000-07:00

Well, we survived Gustav. We were really concerned about getting water in our house, because our ditch in the front yard has been backing up/overflowing into our yard after just a big rain. Fortunately, unknown to us at the time, some neighbors had done some digging in the major drainage ditch on our street, and water drained off quite nicely. We had a shutter blow off the house, a few shingles gone, and a few of our neighbors' fences went down, but all in all, we were very fortunate. We lost power around 1:10 on Monday afternoon, and it was restored Wednesday night around 9:00 or so. (Not positive when exactly, since we were at Trent's brother's with the generator and window a.c. units.)

I have really been in awe of the amount of damage Baton Rouge has sustained. For us, this was so much worse than Katrina, yet the national media keeps reporting things to the effect of "Louisiana really dodged a bullet on this one..." Sure, there were no major levee breaches, and not thousands of deaths due to Gustav, but it has definitely impacted our state and the city of Baton Rouge in dramatic ways. I have never seen lines to get gas so long... or so many trees down (and on top of houses). I know it will take a while to "recover" from this. My parents are still without power- and as of right now, have no estimate on when it will be restored.

But, God was faithful, and protected our family. Even though some of my family members have pretty extensive roof damage, trees down, etc., noone in the family was hurt in any way. Thank God for his protection.

Blessed!

2008-08-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

To say the very least, I was EXTREMELY nervous about starting my job at Central. However, I have been reminded EVERY day about how great God's blessings are. It has been such a smooth transition for me. I love my department, I love my administration, and I love (well, at least like) my students.... mostly. : )

The day before classes began, I found out I would no longer be teaching Business English- just 5 sections of English III. My "duty" is to be the "Yearbook Advisor." Basically, what this means is that I will proof the yearbook & help out as needed/as I want without having the full responsibility. I LOVE it. The yearbook teacher/sponsor is amazing and I think the yearbook will be incredible. I'm glad I get to be a part of it.

I'm still not "back in the routine"... I come home SO exhausted. I'm not used to the whole "wake up at 5:30" thing yet. I miss my friends at Zachary SO much, but I know that I am right where God wants me to be.