(in our prayer "huddle" on football/cheerleader day)

     In my 18 years, I've learned so much about myself. Ever since I could probably talk, I played school as a child. My mother being a third grade teacher most likely had something to do with my fascination with school. I've always admired her absolute devotion to these kids and her hundreds of unpaid hours spent in her classroom. Even more than that I've always been humbled, and sometimes jealous of, the fact that she has 30 other kids to take care of other than her one at home. Whenever I see her with the kids, I'm just like "Wow, I want to impact someone's life like that". I've always wanted to follow in her footsteps. When I was little I had a dry erase board, a jar filled with popsicle sticks with all the "kids" names on them, and I even had a substitute folder for when I was just too busy being a kid to fulfill my role as a teacher. I have always, always, always loved the thought of teaching people something new. I also love taking care of people. Both of these things tie into the spiritual gifts God has so graciously blessed me with- education and encouragement.



     Throughout the past year, I've learned something new about myself every day... especially in my walk with God. Last October, I started working in a daycare/preschool that I won't name for the protection of the kids. It changed me more than I ever imagined. Since I started working, my patience has been tested and greatly improved, my understanding of children's behavior has increased, and I have become so attached to quite a few kiddos. My heart is so full thinking about the months I spent with them, and I'm so excited as some of them start their future in grade school. I babysit often and I work at the local elementary school's summer art classes, both of which I enjoy so so much. But nothing has been so eye opening as working with 15-20 one to five year olds.