I didn't get the job. But it's really okay! I like when people try to console me because they think I am so upset... don't get me wrong, I'm a little bummed about it, but it really is okay!
This just means that God has another plan. For now, I think that means subbing in the spring. So, pass my name along to any teachers that you know!
Graduation: TOMORROW!!!
Love to you all. And thanks for all the prayers!
12.19.2008
12.14.2008
12.12.2008
Tidings of comfort and joy
I'm sitting on campus for the LAST time in my undergrad career. !!!!!. I am so excited! Today I have my "exit interview"... and then four more days of student teaching and I'm done! This semester has flown by. Actually, the last 4 1/2 years have flown by.
Anyway, this week, I have been reminded of how stinking awesome my husband is. He totally cleaned the apartment, put up the Christmas tree and decorations, did the dishes and the laundry, and just was awesome. Oh yeah, and he already gave me my Christmas/graduation present.... an addition to my engagement ring!! It's gorgeous!! I'll post pictures later. Basically, I have the greatest husband in the entire universe. For real.
In other news, next week is going to be fun:
Monday: finish my solo (charity at Christmas),
Tuesday: visit Santa at the mall
Wednesday: Christmas party
Thursday: Christmas program/last day of student teaching
Friday: Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert
Saturday: graduation/reception (everyone is welcome to come!)
Sunday: leave for Gatlinburg until Tuesday (the rest of my graduation present from Justin)
I am so excited about all that will be happening! We will be so busy, but it's going to be great!
Also, totally unrelated, but yesterday one of the kindergarteners said out of nowhere that she just can't wait until she gets to go to heaven. Out of the mouths of babes....
That's all for now.
Anyway, this week, I have been reminded of how stinking awesome my husband is. He totally cleaned the apartment, put up the Christmas tree and decorations, did the dishes and the laundry, and just was awesome. Oh yeah, and he already gave me my Christmas/graduation present.... an addition to my engagement ring!! It's gorgeous!! I'll post pictures later. Basically, I have the greatest husband in the entire universe. For real.
In other news, next week is going to be fun:
Monday: finish my solo (charity at Christmas),
Tuesday: visit Santa at the mall
Wednesday: Christmas party
Thursday: Christmas program/last day of student teaching
Friday: Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert
Saturday: graduation/reception (everyone is welcome to come!)
Sunday: leave for Gatlinburg until Tuesday (the rest of my graduation present from Justin)
I am so excited about all that will be happening! We will be so busy, but it's going to be great!
Also, totally unrelated, but yesterday one of the kindergarteners said out of nowhere that she just can't wait until she gets to go to heaven. Out of the mouths of babes....
That's all for now.
12.03.2008
I need a break.
Tonight, instead of pouring Mountain Lightning into the cup with ice, I poured it into the steamy hot pot of macaroni and cheese.
Drats.
Drats.
12.01.2008
Rap
So, on the way home from Lexington tonight, Justin and I had the most unimportant conversation ever. But, it was so entertaining. I don't have time to post the whole conversation right now, but here are the highlights:
There are several different styles of rap. They are: melodic rap (think Eminem... you know, you can hum the melody), hoochie rap (the kind where it takes hoochies singing in the background to make the song complete... think 50 cent), Busta Rhymes rap (the kind that's so fast you can't understand anything that is being said, which is probably a good thing), hip hop rap (like Ja Rule with J-Lo), girl rap (Eve), and rappers by association rap (think D12). The last one was Justin's, and we both lost it when he came up with that one.
I guess this was much funnier while we were driving home in the snow, but I thought someone (probably Jenn and/or Amanda) would enjoy our rap categories. That's all for now.
P.S.- Pray for a snow day tomorrow! I have to get my unit started/finished!
There are several different styles of rap. They are: melodic rap (think Eminem... you know, you can hum the melody), hoochie rap (the kind where it takes hoochies singing in the background to make the song complete... think 50 cent), Busta Rhymes rap (the kind that's so fast you can't understand anything that is being said, which is probably a good thing), hip hop rap (like Ja Rule with J-Lo), girl rap (Eve), and rappers by association rap (think D12). The last one was Justin's, and we both lost it when he came up with that one.
I guess this was much funnier while we were driving home in the snow, but I thought someone (probably Jenn and/or Amanda) would enjoy our rap categories. That's all for now.
P.S.- Pray for a snow day tomorrow! I have to get my unit started/finished!
11.22.2008
Job Update
The job opportunity that sounded so good was obviously not God's plan for me. And that's okay. The position has been filled, and I'm not sure of any of the details. I just know that God didn't want me to have that job. I'm really learning to trust that God is in control and that He will provide. Please join me in praying that He opens another door.
11.15.2008
I told you the next update would come sooner than the last.
So, I just remembered this great story from kindergarten. And I'm afraid I will forget about it before I update again. So, here it is:
Each week, we learn about a new letter. Last week's letter was "f". We talk about and practice writing the letter every day, and on Friday we play the sound game, where the students stand in a line and take turns saying words that begin with the letter. The "f" sound game proved to be the funniest I have witnessed yet.
When it came time for this super cute little guy's turn, we asked him for an "f" word, and he said "frow up" (a common mistake). We told him that it is really "throw up" and he quickly said, "Well, I can't think of the Spanish word for it anyway." Huh? We had no idea what he was talking about, so we asked him to think of another "f" word. He did, and then went to the back of the line.
When his next turn rolled around, his "f" word was "fart". We told him that word was not very nice, and that he shouldn't say that at school. This little guy was so quick on his feet that he said without hesitation, and in all sincerity, "Well, it's just Spanish for frow up!"
I totally lost it. I couldn't do anything because I was laughing so hard. And this, my friends, is one of the many reasons that I love children!
Each week, we learn about a new letter. Last week's letter was "f". We talk about and practice writing the letter every day, and on Friday we play the sound game, where the students stand in a line and take turns saying words that begin with the letter. The "f" sound game proved to be the funniest I have witnessed yet.
When it came time for this super cute little guy's turn, we asked him for an "f" word, and he said "frow up" (a common mistake). We told him that it is really "throw up" and he quickly said, "Well, I can't think of the Spanish word for it anyway." Huh? We had no idea what he was talking about, so we asked him to think of another "f" word. He did, and then went to the back of the line.
When his next turn rolled around, his "f" word was "fart". We told him that word was not very nice, and that he shouldn't say that at school. This little guy was so quick on his feet that he said without hesitation, and in all sincerity, "Well, it's just Spanish for frow up!"
I totally lost it. I couldn't do anything because I was laughing so hard. And this, my friends, is one of the many reasons that I love children!
P.S.---Sometimes you just need to cry
So, Justin and I just watched P.S. I Love You. And, I cried. A lot. It was a wonderful movie... quite the tear jerker. I can't stand to think about what I would do if I found myself in that situation...
That's enough of the sad stuff. An update on the job hunt: I will hopefully be interviewing in the next few weeks, so keep praying! I know that God is in control no matter what, and His plans are best. I have some great opportunities coming up, and I am so thankful to be in this place in my life. (Thanks for reminding me, Jenn!)
A short update is better than no update, right? Hopefully I will be able to update again very soon. And, I'll continue the countdowns then, too.
That's enough of the sad stuff. An update on the job hunt: I will hopefully be interviewing in the next few weeks, so keep praying! I know that God is in control no matter what, and His plans are best. I have some great opportunities coming up, and I am so thankful to be in this place in my life. (Thanks for reminding me, Jenn!)
A short update is better than no update, right? Hopefully I will be able to update again very soon. And, I'll continue the countdowns then, too.
11.01.2008
Just keep praying
I know that my friends and family have been praying about my job situation, and I am so thankful! I got some encouraging news this week, and I am pumped! God is so good to have blessed me with friends who are keeping an eye out on the job market for me (thanks Marie, Jenn, and Laura!) and superiors who are more than willing to do what they can to help me. I don't know why God chose to bless me in these ways, and it is overwhelming to see all that has happened in just a few short days. So, again, thanks for the prayers. And just keep praying! Just pray that God's will is done, and that I can accept that it is for the best. Hopefully I will have an update to share within the next several weeks.
Now for something much less serious: Macie is a hit with the kids at school! She came to school for Halloween yesterday in her bumblebee costume, and the kids absolutely loved it! I was nervous about how she would react to so many people, but she was fantastic. The kids asked me all day when she could come back. The fifth grade girls also asked when Justin would be back.... it was too funny! They thought he was SO cute, and it really embarrassed him! :) He was such a good sport, though. I am so thankful that he is my husband and that he loves me like he does. I don't deserve it.
Finally, I am going to start a few countdowns because my favorite time of the year is quickly approaching!
Thanksgiving: 26 days
Graduation (!): 49 days
Christmas: 54 days..... Wal-Mart was playing Christmas music this morning, and I LOVED it!
:)
Now for something much less serious: Macie is a hit with the kids at school! She came to school for Halloween yesterday in her bumblebee costume, and the kids absolutely loved it! I was nervous about how she would react to so many people, but she was fantastic. The kids asked me all day when she could come back. The fifth grade girls also asked when Justin would be back.... it was too funny! They thought he was SO cute, and it really embarrassed him! :) He was such a good sport, though. I am so thankful that he is my husband and that he loves me like he does. I don't deserve it.
Finally, I am going to start a few countdowns because my favorite time of the year is quickly approaching!
Thanksgiving: 26 days
Graduation (!): 49 days
Christmas: 54 days..... Wal-Mart was playing Christmas music this morning, and I LOVED it!
:)
10.23.2008
Update
As promised, here is Macie in her adorable bumble bee costume that she HATES! It's just so precious:
Also, before I forget, please go watch Fireproof. Seriously, it is one of the best movies I have ever seen. If you don't have the money, let me know and I'll pay for it. It's really that important. Justin and I started The Love Dare this week (from the movie), and it is phenomenal. It focuses on having the marriage that God intended you to have, one day at a time. Lifeway has the book for $10... and it's worth every penny.
Switching gears now: I finished fifth grade. On my last day, I made 40+ muffins and took them in for my homeroom for breakfast. The kids were so grateful and loved getting to eat breakfast together! I even had one student who prayed silently before he ate. Without anyone telling or reminding him to do so. It was one of the sweetest and most innocent things I have ever seen. The kids made me cards and brought me small gifts, insisting that I not forget them. Like I could! I really, really miss them.
So, I started student teaching in kindergarten on Monday, and it is a huge adjustment! The kids are tiny, and they are so cute. The things they say are so sweet... I had one child who was coughing and holding her throat becuase her dad "just forgot to take her tonsils out." It was adorable! I am loving kindergarten, especially all the hugs and hand-holding. They are so dependant, and I love being loved and needed. So, I have decided that I just love children of all ages, and I want to teach them. Any age, any grade (in elementary, of course). I'm excited to see what the future holds!
Speaking of the future, please be in prayer for me and the job hunt. I'm not sure what to do or where to look... I don't know where God wants me, but He does. I'm just trying to be patient as I wait to see where He is leading. Pray that I have ample patience and confidence that God will provide... Jehovah Jireh is one of His many names, after all.
10.22.2008
ch-ch-ch-changes
I finished my fifth grade student teaching placement, and I hated to say goodbye to those fantastic kids. Now, I'm in kindergarten with the little kids, and it's going well. I'll have some updates later, as well as a few pictures of Macie in her new Halloween costume. Just letting you know that I haven't dropped off the face of the planet just yet....
10.12.2008
"Simul justi, simul peccatores"
"At the same time righteous and sinner."
This was the focus of our Sunday School material this morning. My husband did a wonderful job teaching this tough subject. Here lately, I can really relate to Paul when he writes in Romans 7:
"For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. But if I do the very thing I do not want to do, I agree with the Law, confessing that the Law is good. So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wants to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, on the one hand I myself with my mind am serving the law of God, but on the other, with my flesh the law of sin."
My soul is waging war against my flesh, and I am not too fond of the battle. But, as Paul says, praise God for setting me free from the body of this death!
This was the focus of our Sunday School material this morning. My husband did a wonderful job teaching this tough subject. Here lately, I can really relate to Paul when he writes in Romans 7:
"For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. But if I do the very thing I do not want to do, I agree with the Law, confessing that the Law is good. So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wants to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, on the one hand I myself with my mind am serving the law of God, but on the other, with my flesh the law of sin."
My soul is waging war against my flesh, and I am not too fond of the battle. But, as Paul says, praise God for setting me free from the body of this death!
10.04.2008
The Pinnacles
Yesterday, Justin and I took a hike at the Pinnacles in Berea. If you have never gone, you really need to. The view from the top is spectacular. The leaves are just starting to change colors, which made for a few nice pictures. Most importantly, we got to spend some time together enjoying God's awesome creation. What a mighty God!
The view on the way to the West Pinnacle.
One of my favorites from the day:
On the way up, my brave and heroic husband had to save me from this big guy... ;)
And finally, the view from the top. (This picture doesn't do it justice at all...)
We had a fantastic time, and we can't wait to go back to hike the East Pinnacle to see all of God's glory on the other side of the mountain!
10.01.2008
Renewing a passion
Today at school I decided to read a book. Not just any book. A children's book. My absolute favorite! So, I picked up Nim's Island while the kiddos were taking a test and I started reading. Of course, I got sucked in and I wanted to keep reading instead of getting up to teach the afternoon classes. One of my adorable little guys decided to read the book with me, which I love. I just LOVE watching kids read. So, he sat down beside me and started reading. It was fantastic!
Anyway, the kids finally got on the bus to go home, and I walked home (stupid car...) and then I finished the book. In about 30 minutes. It was great!
Until this weekend, I had forgotten how much I love to read. So, I have started a book by the excellent author Beverly Lewis, and I hope to be finished by the end of fall break. I am so glad that I finally have some time for free reading again. There is little better than sitting down with a good book.
So, this blog is pointless.
Except that I wish my passion for reading extended over into my Christian walk, making me more passionate about reading Scripture and really soaking it in. Not just reading it. The same with praying, too. So, as I renew my passion for reading fiction, I am burdened by my lack of that degree of passion for my God and my relationship with Him. There's the passion I should be renewing...
Oh, and how much more satisfying would it be for me to be reading Scripture and then to have a child decide to read it with me...
Anyway, the kids finally got on the bus to go home, and I walked home (stupid car...) and then I finished the book. In about 30 minutes. It was great!
Until this weekend, I had forgotten how much I love to read. So, I have started a book by the excellent author Beverly Lewis, and I hope to be finished by the end of fall break. I am so glad that I finally have some time for free reading again. There is little better than sitting down with a good book.
So, this blog is pointless.
Except that I wish my passion for reading extended over into my Christian walk, making me more passionate about reading Scripture and really soaking it in. Not just reading it. The same with praying, too. So, as I renew my passion for reading fiction, I am burdened by my lack of that degree of passion for my God and my relationship with Him. There's the passion I should be renewing...
Oh, and how much more satisfying would it be for me to be reading Scripture and then to have a child decide to read it with me...
9.27.2008
I live for the weekends... especially when they are three days long
Praise God for three day weekends! Getting up at 7:30 instead of 5:30 is fantastic!
I finished my solo week... it went well, but there were a few issues. Nothing too huge. I was observed by my supervisor and got a perfect score, followed by a very encouraging conference. I am pumped about updating my resume and filling out applications soon!!! As always, my kids are great, and I love spending five days a week with them. The only thing better than that is spending four days a week with them!
Last weekend, Justin and I watched August Rush. I thought it was amazing. Justin thought it was weird. Go figure. If you love music, you will love the movie. Probably.
Tuesday night was the start of season six of NCIS. Gotta love it. And Wednesday night was Criminal Minds. Again, gotta love it. Hopefully we can make it through this season without a writers' strike.
Yesterday, my sister and I went to Lexington for a shopping spree via our lovely grandmother. It is so good to have my sister home finally! She is the best! And, she is like my very own built-in best friend. I love it! Oh, and we spent last night eating pizza and watching Toy Story. One of the very best movies ever.
When I sat down to start this blog, I felt like I had some great things to write about. Alas, I was incorrect. So, today's blog is just as boring as all the others. For this, I apologize.
PS-- The next two weeks are both four day weeks! Hooray for Fall Break!
I finished my solo week... it went well, but there were a few issues. Nothing too huge. I was observed by my supervisor and got a perfect score, followed by a very encouraging conference. I am pumped about updating my resume and filling out applications soon!!! As always, my kids are great, and I love spending five days a week with them. The only thing better than that is spending four days a week with them!
Last weekend, Justin and I watched August Rush. I thought it was amazing. Justin thought it was weird. Go figure. If you love music, you will love the movie. Probably.
Tuesday night was the start of season six of NCIS. Gotta love it. And Wednesday night was Criminal Minds. Again, gotta love it. Hopefully we can make it through this season without a writers' strike.
Yesterday, my sister and I went to Lexington for a shopping spree via our lovely grandmother. It is so good to have my sister home finally! She is the best! And, she is like my very own built-in best friend. I love it! Oh, and we spent last night eating pizza and watching Toy Story. One of the very best movies ever.
When I sat down to start this blog, I felt like I had some great things to write about. Alas, I was incorrect. So, today's blog is just as boring as all the others. For this, I apologize.
PS-- The next two weeks are both four day weeks! Hooray for Fall Break!
9.18.2008
Solo week and practice
Today was day one of my first solo week. It went very well, actually. My kids are great. And, in case this slipped by without being said, I love teaching!
One funny incident from today: *putting tomorrow's date and assignments on the board*
Student 1: Mrs. Padgett, are you really married, or did you just tell us that to trick us?
Me: I'm really married. It wasn't a trick.
Student 2: Yeah, weren't you listening when she told us about herself on the first day?
Student 1: I was listening. I know she said that, but some teachers say they are married, and they really aren't. You know, like that one teacher last year.
Student 2: Oh, yeah. You are really married?
Me: Yes. *showing the students my engagement ring and wedding band*
Student 1: Yeah, she's married.
I have started tutoring a friend's child a couple days a week, and he is wonderful! I feel like I am getting mommy practice because I am hauling a booster seat in my car, I pick him up from school, make sure he gets a snack, and help him with homework and stuff. I love doing this, but it still feels weird to look in my backseat and see a booster seat! One day, that will be my child's booster seat and I will be the mommy. One day. Not today. What a blessing that will be when the time comes, though!
That's about it for me today. I need my friends with blogs to update them more often, and those without blogs need to get them... at this point, blogging is the only way I can keep up with everyone. So, get to blogging! I miss and love you all, and I need more of you in my life. Let's make that happen soon!
One funny incident from today: *putting tomorrow's date and assignments on the board*
Student 1: Mrs. Padgett, are you really married, or did you just tell us that to trick us?
Me: I'm really married. It wasn't a trick.
Student 2: Yeah, weren't you listening when she told us about herself on the first day?
Student 1: I was listening. I know she said that, but some teachers say they are married, and they really aren't. You know, like that one teacher last year.
Student 2: Oh, yeah. You are really married?
Me: Yes. *showing the students my engagement ring and wedding band*
Student 1: Yeah, she's married.
I have started tutoring a friend's child a couple days a week, and he is wonderful! I feel like I am getting mommy practice because I am hauling a booster seat in my car, I pick him up from school, make sure he gets a snack, and help him with homework and stuff. I love doing this, but it still feels weird to look in my backseat and see a booster seat! One day, that will be my child's booster seat and I will be the mommy. One day. Not today. What a blessing that will be when the time comes, though!
That's about it for me today. I need my friends with blogs to update them more often, and those without blogs need to get them... at this point, blogging is the only way I can keep up with everyone. So, get to blogging! I miss and love you all, and I need more of you in my life. Let's make that happen soon!
9.11.2008
...
Today was a mess:
1. 4 hallway pukers
2. 1 case of lice
3. 1 case of strep
4. 1 pink eye
Despite all the grossness, I really do love this line of work!
1. 4 hallway pukers
2. 1 case of lice
3. 1 case of strep
4. 1 pink eye
Despite all the grossness, I really do love this line of work!
9.07.2008
Starlight, Star bright
Sometimes I wish that things were different. I think. If I see a star tonight, I think I'll make a wish.
9.04.2008
Quick Update
So, I really stink at this blogging thing now that school has started. Quick updates will have to suffice until I get it all together.
1. I PASSED THE PRAXIS!!! And not only did I pass, I received a certificate of excellence for both tests! Praise the Lord!
2. Last week, a kid puked while I was teaching. Gross-fest. I let the classroom teacher handle that one.
3. Today, I had a few students ask me if I would come watch their soccer and football games. I love being asked that.
4. Mom's visit came and went. She won't get to come back until December. When I GRADUATE!
5. I finally learned all 60+ fifth graders' names. It's harder than it sounds.
6. I miss sleeping.
7. I actually went shopping on Monday (thanks, Dad), and I bought some teacher clothes. Now I can teach in style.
8. We had family pictures made while Mom was here. They turned out really well. Maybe I will post a few sometime in the future.
9. That's all I can think of for now. When I think of something else, I will post it. No guarantee on when that will be...
1. I PASSED THE PRAXIS!!! And not only did I pass, I received a certificate of excellence for both tests! Praise the Lord!
2. Last week, a kid puked while I was teaching. Gross-fest. I let the classroom teacher handle that one.
3. Today, I had a few students ask me if I would come watch their soccer and football games. I love being asked that.
4. Mom's visit came and went. She won't get to come back until December. When I GRADUATE!
5. I finally learned all 60+ fifth graders' names. It's harder than it sounds.
6. I miss sleeping.
7. I actually went shopping on Monday (thanks, Dad), and I bought some teacher clothes. Now I can teach in style.
8. We had family pictures made while Mom was here. They turned out really well. Maybe I will post a few sometime in the future.
9. That's all I can think of for now. When I think of something else, I will post it. No guarantee on when that will be...
8.28.2008
This is for you, Jenn
I know, I know. It's been a while. Sorry!
I am super busy right now, trying to get into the swing of things. So, I've slacked off of blogging. But I'm back!
Student teaching is wonderful. I've been in the classroom since Tuesday, and I have already learned all of my homeroom students' names. I just have the other 2 fifth grade homerooms to go... Anyway, I love teaching and being around students. I am so thankful that the Lord has blessed me with the ability and opportunity to do something that I love! The only bad part so far has been getting up at 5:30 when my body was used to getting up at 6:15ish. But, it's totally worth it when we get to send the kids out the door at 2:30!!
Switching topics here, I have a busy weekend ahead: Mom is flying in tomorrow night. Family pictures are on Saturday (oh, joy), and then there's Monday. No school. No plans. No alarm clock. Praise the Lord!
Sorry this has been boring. I'll try to jazz the next one up a bit more so that I can seem more interesting and entertaining.
I am super busy right now, trying to get into the swing of things. So, I've slacked off of blogging. But I'm back!
Student teaching is wonderful. I've been in the classroom since Tuesday, and I have already learned all of my homeroom students' names. I just have the other 2 fifth grade homerooms to go... Anyway, I love teaching and being around students. I am so thankful that the Lord has blessed me with the ability and opportunity to do something that I love! The only bad part so far has been getting up at 5:30 when my body was used to getting up at 6:15ish. But, it's totally worth it when we get to send the kids out the door at 2:30!!
Switching topics here, I have a busy weekend ahead: Mom is flying in tomorrow night. Family pictures are on Saturday (oh, joy), and then there's Monday. No school. No plans. No alarm clock. Praise the Lord!
Sorry this has been boring. I'll try to jazz the next one up a bit more so that I can seem more interesting and entertaining.
8.19.2008
The Church's One Foundation
We sang a song Sunday morning from the good old Baptist Hymnal that I have never heard before. And I was floored.
"The Church's One Foundation"
The church's one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord
she is his new creation by water and the Word.
From heaven he came and sought her to be his holy bride
with his own blood he bought her, and for her life he died.
Elect from every nation, yet one o'er all the earth
her charter of salvation, one Lord, one faith, one birth
one holy name she blesses, partakes one holy food,
and to one hope she presses, with every grace endued.
Though with a scornful wonder we see her sore oppressed,
by schisms rent asunder, by heresies distressed,
yet saints their watch are keeping; their cry goes up, "How long?"
And soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song.
Mid toil and tribulation, and tumult of her war,
she waits the consummation of peace forevermore
till, with the vision glorious, her longing eyes are blest,
and the great church victorious shall be the church at rest.
Yet she on earth hath union with God the Three in One,
and mystic sweet communion with those whose rest is won.
O happy ones and holy! Lord, give us grace that we
like them, the meek and lowly, on high may dwell with thee.
-Samuel J. Stone, 1839-1900
"The Church's One Foundation"
The church's one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord
she is his new creation by water and the Word.
From heaven he came and sought her to be his holy bride
with his own blood he bought her, and for her life he died.
Elect from every nation, yet one o'er all the earth
her charter of salvation, one Lord, one faith, one birth
one holy name she blesses, partakes one holy food,
and to one hope she presses, with every grace endued.
Though with a scornful wonder we see her sore oppressed,
by schisms rent asunder, by heresies distressed,
yet saints their watch are keeping; their cry goes up, "How long?"
And soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song.
Mid toil and tribulation, and tumult of her war,
she waits the consummation of peace forevermore
till, with the vision glorious, her longing eyes are blest,
and the great church victorious shall be the church at rest.
Yet she on earth hath union with God the Three in One,
and mystic sweet communion with those whose rest is won.
O happy ones and holy! Lord, give us grace that we
like them, the meek and lowly, on high may dwell with thee.
-Samuel J. Stone, 1839-1900
8.15.2008
Girls' Ministry
I have felt for some time now that God has called me to disciple girls/young women, and I am seeking out ways to be obedient to that calling. I bought a couple new books (!) at Lifeway last week, and I started reading Girls' Ministry Handbook: Starting and Growing a Girls' Ministry in Your Church (Jimmie L. Davis) today at work. It is wonderful, encouraging, inspiring, and gut-wrenching all at the same time. Below are a few of the frightening statistics that the book mentions:
-One million teens in the U.S. will become pregnant in the next 12 months.
-Eating disorders are now the third most common chronic illness in adolescent girls.
-One in three girls has had sex by age 16; two out of three girls has had sex by age 18.
-Almost 35% of girls in high school have felt sad or hopeless almost every day for at least two weeks.
-Almost 40% of date rape victims are between the ages of 14 and 17.
-About 1 out of 10 young people self-mutilate.
-A 2006 status report from Georgetown University's Center of Alcohol Marketing and Youth "noted an increase in binge drinking among girls, who are more likely to consume hard liquor than their beer-inclined male counterparts."
Wow. That makes my burden much heavier. I am so thankful that God protected me from being a part of any of those statistics. I am also thankful for the wonderful godly women He used in my life along the way: Jenn, Julie, Chris, Christy, Anna, and many others.... thank you!
God is so good. Please be in prayer for me as I seek obedience in this.
-One million teens in the U.S. will become pregnant in the next 12 months.
-Eating disorders are now the third most common chronic illness in adolescent girls.
-One in three girls has had sex by age 16; two out of three girls has had sex by age 18.
-Almost 35% of girls in high school have felt sad or hopeless almost every day for at least two weeks.
-Almost 40% of date rape victims are between the ages of 14 and 17.
-About 1 out of 10 young people self-mutilate.
-A 2006 status report from Georgetown University's Center of Alcohol Marketing and Youth "noted an increase in binge drinking among girls, who are more likely to consume hard liquor than their beer-inclined male counterparts."
Wow. That makes my burden much heavier. I am so thankful that God protected me from being a part of any of those statistics. I am also thankful for the wonderful godly women He used in my life along the way: Jenn, Julie, Chris, Christy, Anna, and many others.... thank you!
God is so good. Please be in prayer for me as I seek obedience in this.
8.14.2008
Random
Today I am filled with random thoughts. Macie came to visit me at work today, and she was so good! The ladies in the office wanted to see her before I leave the office for good. (Countdown: 6 days/maybe 5... it just depends.) We are having Macie spayed on Tuesday, and I have been trying to prepare her for the surgery, but so far she doesn't seem to care. I do.
Justin and I are thinking about having a D-Now weekend at church sometime this fall. We have never organized/participated in a D-Now event. Any suggestions?
Justin and I are thinking about having a D-Now weekend at church sometime this fall. We have never organized/participated in a D-Now event. Any suggestions?
8.13.2008
They will revoke my citizenship
I haven't watched the Olympics. At all. I love summer Olympics (mainly just gymnastics and swimming), but I have been too busy/lazy to watch any of the events. I am not worthy to be called an American, I know.
I was just thinking about how much has changed since the last summer Olympics, and I got a good laugh out of a few things that came to mind. :) Four years ago:
1. I didn't even know that Justin existed. Now, I am happily married to him.
2. I was getting ready to start college. At Transy. Now, I am getting ready to be a college graduate. From EKU.
3. I secretly hoped that my future success included fame... maybe a dance career, maybe a singing career---I am not good enough at either to be famous, but I still had hope. Now, I know that my future success lies in the classroom, and I am okay with that. At least I am kind of famous at Wal-Mart when I see one of my students.... "Mrs. Padgett!" :)
4. No one knew that Lance Bass (NSYNC) was gay. Some may have suspected it, but no one knew for sure.
5. There was no such thing as an i-Pod!! Can you believe it?!
6. "Toxic" was Britney Spears' big hit... and, she had no babies. Nor had she been divorced twice. Once was enough for her. I do still love to crank up "Toxic" in my car, though. :)
Oh, what a difference a few years makes. I wonder how much will have changed by the next summer Olympics.
I was just thinking about how much has changed since the last summer Olympics, and I got a good laugh out of a few things that came to mind. :) Four years ago:
1. I didn't even know that Justin existed. Now, I am happily married to him.
2. I was getting ready to start college. At Transy. Now, I am getting ready to be a college graduate. From EKU.
3. I secretly hoped that my future success included fame... maybe a dance career, maybe a singing career---I am not good enough at either to be famous, but I still had hope. Now, I know that my future success lies in the classroom, and I am okay with that. At least I am kind of famous at Wal-Mart when I see one of my students.... "Mrs. Padgett!" :)
4. No one knew that Lance Bass (NSYNC) was gay. Some may have suspected it, but no one knew for sure.
5. There was no such thing as an i-Pod!! Can you believe it?!
6. "Toxic" was Britney Spears' big hit... and, she had no babies. Nor had she been divorced twice. Once was enough for her. I do still love to crank up "Toxic" in my car, though. :)
Oh, what a difference a few years makes. I wonder how much will have changed by the next summer Olympics.
8.11.2008
Graduate Education and Research...
I only have to answer the phones at work for 9 more days! I only have to be at work for 9 more days! Then, it's HELLO STUDENT TEACHING!! :)
King's Island was good. I wish that we had gotten to spend more time there, and I wish that Face Off was working because it's my favorite. Nevertheless, I had fun. And it was good to be with old friends that we don't get to see often enough. I love those people, and I miss them terribly. I need to do something about that.
For now, I will leave you with a picture of Macie at 8 weeks. She is precious! I will try to upload a more recent picture soon.
8.07.2008
Here we go again
I'm sure that nearly everyone has heard by now that alcohol claimed another life. But it wasn't just another life: it was the life of a classmate. Daniel makes the third member of my graduating class to pass away. And we are just 22 years old. This is a scary trend that needs to come to an end. I know that God has a purpose and a plan in the midst of all of this, but His plan is a bit unclear right now.
Let me take a minute to get on my soapbox. I HATE alcohol. Outside of the obvious things like its horrible smell, I can't stand how a stupid substance like alcohol can control and ruin a person's life. I don't ever want to hear about another person dying with the cause of death linked to alcohol. It is ridiculous. You don't have to drink. No alcohol = no deaths caused by alcohol. It is really that simple. And I don't even want to get started on the subject of underage drinking. Just let me say this: if you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drink. Period. And, if I find out about someone underage drinking and I know the location, don't put it past me to call the police and have them come bust that person/entire "party". It is dangerous and stupid. Ok, I've preached enough. At least for today. I'm sure that there will be more to come on this subject, though.
On a much lighter note, here are some things I am looking forward to/excited about:
-Kings Island TOMORROW :)
-Angela D & Chris' wedding Saturday :)
-School is starting soon, which means I will officially be a student teacher :)
-Graduation is in 4.5 months :) :) :)
-Mom is coming for a visit Labor Day weekend :)
-Justin got his promotion (Assistant Manager @ Valvoline) :)
Let me take a minute to get on my soapbox. I HATE alcohol. Outside of the obvious things like its horrible smell, I can't stand how a stupid substance like alcohol can control and ruin a person's life. I don't ever want to hear about another person dying with the cause of death linked to alcohol. It is ridiculous. You don't have to drink. No alcohol = no deaths caused by alcohol. It is really that simple. And I don't even want to get started on the subject of underage drinking. Just let me say this: if you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drink. Period. And, if I find out about someone underage drinking and I know the location, don't put it past me to call the police and have them come bust that person/entire "party". It is dangerous and stupid. Ok, I've preached enough. At least for today. I'm sure that there will be more to come on this subject, though.
On a much lighter note, here are some things I am looking forward to/excited about:
-Kings Island TOMORROW :)
-Angela D & Chris' wedding Saturday :)
-School is starting soon, which means I will officially be a student teacher :)
-Graduation is in 4.5 months :) :) :)
-Mom is coming for a visit Labor Day weekend :)
-Justin got his promotion (Assistant Manager @ Valvoline) :)
7.31.2008
Almost home...
I am busy. Just like everyone else in this world. And oftentimes I would rather just go home and relax instead of working, doing homework, going to the grocery, or whatever other task I have to complete that I could spend hours complaining about. But going home is not an option for me most of the time.
All that will be changing at some point in the future, though. I get so caught up in this life that I think that my home is the little two-bedroom apartment that Justin and I live in. That's what I so often want to go home to. But that isn't my home. My real, true, eternal home is Heaven. And with every passing second, I am getting closer to the time that I can really go home. Forever.
So, the little mindless tasks that I have to complete daily seem minute when compared to eterninty. And I must continually remind myself that I am almost home.
All that will be changing at some point in the future, though. I get so caught up in this life that I think that my home is the little two-bedroom apartment that Justin and I live in. That's what I so often want to go home to. But that isn't my home. My real, true, eternal home is Heaven. And with every passing second, I am getting closer to the time that I can really go home. Forever.
So, the little mindless tasks that I have to complete daily seem minute when compared to eterninty. And I must continually remind myself that I am almost home.
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