The Big "4"

Exactly 4 years ago I became an aunt. 

I'll never forget those first few pictures sent to me via text all the way in Senegal...

 

I'd never loved another human as much as I loved (love) that little girl (and now her sister).

 

From the very first time I met and held her in the Birmingham airport at a little over 4 months old, I felt my world was just a little brighter.

 

Spending time with her quickly became one of my most favorite pastimes. It didn't matter if we were just sitting around...

 

Or cheering on our favorite team...

 

 

Or if we're playing or going outside and picking flowers. And seeing that sweet smile and those eyes light up is all it takes for me to join in.

 

 

We have our periodic Daisy/Zizzie Dates when I'm home. Although, she's not selfish. She'd much rather we invite Granny and little sister along too :)

 

 

 

She is one spoiled little girl, but it's worth it. She deserves it :)

 

She's a "ham" for the camera and can totally make me laugh, grinning and posing for a picture :)

 

 

Or showing off our "muscles"...

 

Any day spent with her (and her sister) is a good day for me...

 

This little love bug has totally stolen my heart.

 

Happy Birtbday Sweet Girl!

 

My 31st by the Hour

A fellow blogger, Erika, did a fun style of an A Day in the Life post the other day, where instead of just posting random pictures, she did one picture each hour. 

So I thought I'd "copy" her idea... 

And because I know you're all just dying to know all about how my birthday went yesterday, here ya go...

7:30 - I'd been awake for a little while, but didn't want to out of bed. So I'd been praying and thinking and also listening to my Worship playlist on my phone.

 

8:00 - I ended up calling my mom last night and talking for a long, long time, using up all the minutes on my phone. So I had to go get more credit this morning.

 

8:30 - After that, I came back home to grab a bite for breakfast and to feed my houseguest who's staying with me while his family is traveling.

 

9:00 - I then went to the school to bum their wifi and enjoy the A/C because my apartment was ridiculously hot. Then a friend who just arrived back, asked if I wanted to ride along to the store so we could chat and catch up.

 

10:00 - I opened my birthday bag of gifts from my Mom and also enjoyed a nice cold Dr Pepper (a gift from a student). 

 

11:00 - I then headed to lunch with friends.

 

12:00 - We ate lunch at Feel Juice Dakar. A salad bar in Dakar? Who knew?! It was delicious!

 

12:30 - Yay for birthday presents from friends!

 

1:00 - On the road...

 

2:00 - Grocery shopping with a photo bomber makes for fun times :)

 

3:00 - Tabaski's almost here, so rams are everywhere.

 

4:00 - We made a quick pit stop at another grocery store closer to home that had some food items cheaper.

 

4:30 - Once home, I did a little afternoon reading on the subject of faith.

 

5:00 - Nap time now involves a ceiling fan, 2 stand fans, and me trying to somehow stay cool in the sauna that is my bedroom.

 

6:00 - I made my favorite cake for my birthday dessert for tonight's dinner. I love strawberry cake with strawberry frosting!

 

7:00 - I then headed to dinner with my "family away from family" and my fellow August 6 birthday buddy :)

 

8:00 - Funny "gift" of the night... Slim jims ;)

 

8:30 - We watched Big Fat Greek Wedding 2. I think I liked it better than the first one.

 

10:00 - At this point, the movie was over and this cutie wanted some attention ;)

 

11:00 - Headed home after a long, but totally fun and blessed day :)

 

11:39 - I got home and ready for bed and then finished up this post, so it'd be ready to publish the next day.

 

And with that, I bid my 31st goodnight. 

A Letter to 31

Dear 31,

You're how old I'll be as of Saturday. I sometimes don't see how that's possible. At times, I still feel like I'm 16, I'm high school, and ready to take on the world.

Once upon a time, I was bummed at the thought of potentially not being with my family on my birthday this year. 

Ever since my dad passed away, the day has left a slight twinge of sadness in my heart. It's the "big" days like my birthday, when I miss my dad the most and just really don't want to be alone. 

But, due to various reasons, I chose to come back to Dakar earlier than originally planned, meaning I would indeed be in Dakar on my birthday.

And  knowing how I'd be feeling on Saturday, I chose to plan the day in advance. This way, I could guarantee I'd spend it with friends and co-workers and surrogate families ;)

I have lunch plans with a big group of people. I have dinner plans with my "family away from family." I have a Skype call planned with my mom. And all in all, I think it's going to end up being a great day! 

Honestly, I don't feel any older. But I feel good. I'm getting healthier. I'm honestly just loving life. I am. 

In terms of work... I feel like I'm finally hitting my stride in teaching and in my role in helping to fulfill The Great Commission. I love my job and am so incredibly lucky blessed to be able to follow my passion and do what I love! 

Educationally speaking... I'm in the middle of my last 6 classes needed to become ordained with the A/G. I'm studying through a book/DVD program, trying my hardest to learn enough ASL to (at the very least) have a decent conversation with someone. I'm researching all I can to help me in prepping for a new(-ish) teaching strategy that will be so incredibly beneficial to my 5th graders this year. It all keeps me busy. That's for sure. But I like being busy. I do.

Spiritually speaking... I feel like I'm at a stage where I just can't get enough of the Word. I can sit for hours and hours, with my Bible open, flipping back and forth, reading and studying. I love this hunger deep in my soul that has grown over time. 

Are things perfect? No, of course not. Do I wish I were married and had children and a white picket fence? Yes, definitely. *Well, maybe not a white picket fence, but you get the idea... ;)

But you know... I honestly can say that I'm happy. I truly am. I love my life and am blessed so amazingly more than I deserve.

So to end this letter... 

31, I think you're going to be a great year. I can't wait to see what awesomeness you have for me. I pray I treat you well,

Questions and Answers

What is the first word that comes to mind when you think about God?

Grace

When did God become real to you?

I remember being saved at either 4 or 5. But it was at 10 years old, that I remember my feeling that my relationship with my Savior was "real." Does that make sense? Over the years, I feel I've continued to draw closer and closer to Him and deeper and deeper in His Word. Now, I can't imagine my life without Him as my personal Lord and Savior. It truly is an amazing adventure. And I'm so grateful for God being my guide every single step of the way.

What is your favorite worship song/hymn?

Worship Song - No Longer Slaves by Newsboys

Hymn - In the Garden or Lily of the Valley

Tell us about your siblings.

I have one brother who's 18 months younger than me. Growing up, we were really close. Moving around all the time does that to you. Anywho - He's an exceptionally hard worker. He is generous and encouraging. He has a huge heart and loves doing good for others. He's an amazing husband and father. If I'm able to find a man one day who is even half as great as he is, I'll be a lucky girl.

Does your name have a special meaning or were you named after someone special?

My first name (Mary) was my mom's mom's name. She died before I was born. Then Elisabeth (with an S, not a Z) is from the Bible. 

If money were no object, and you didn't have to work, what would you do?

I'd still be teaching in some way, I'm sure. I really do love it that much. But I'd probably be finally doing my dream job. I'd be working in an orphanage or children's home somewhere. 

What's in the works, creatively speaking?

I'm working on my next newsletter.

As a child, what did you wish to become when you grew up?

I have always wanted to become a teacher.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you want to have with you?

1) Bible 
2) a Knife (great for gathering/preparing food found on the island
3) Somebody fun & smart (a relative, a friend, somebody...)

What book have you read recently that you would recommend?

I actually wrote about this on here the other day. Did you miss it? If so, you can read my answers here.

What's your most embarrassing moment?

Oh my word... I was sitting on the plane one day, waiting for it to take off. I'd eaten something bad a few hours earlier. The plane was delayed, so we were just sitting there. I was hot. I felt horrible. And right when I opened my mouth to ask the guy next to me if I could get out to go to the bathroom, I threw up ALL OVER him, the seat in front of me, my tray, everywhere... It was awful!

Tell about your last dream.

Short answer... A turtle was teaching me Sign Language. 

What is something you love doing?

Teaching

What is something you hate doing?

I hate packing/unpacking.

Which movie do you quote the most?

I have a few I quote often. I'm not sure which I quote hte most, though. There's Sweet Home Alabama, Forrest Gump, and almost all Disney movies.

Any hidden talents?

very little - I'm an open book.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

morning

Coffee or tea?

tea - I hate coffee.

Which 3 countries would you like to visit?

1) Australia
2) Korea
3) either Ireland or Scotland

What is a favorite line from a movie?

"The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all." - from Mulan

Thoughts on tattoos? Have any? Want any?

I don't have any. Not sure if I want one or not.
As for my thoughts... I have no problem with someone else getting one. I just don't know if it's for me. I typically try to stay as far away from needles as possible.

What is your biggest pet peeve(s)?

Hearing people chewing their food. Ugh! Close your mouth when you eat, people!

If you had one day to live over again, which day would you pick?

I don't know that I have an actual specific day. But it'd be a day when we were younger and my dad was obviously still around. ...a day when we did something fun together as a family. And I had no cares in the world. Life was fun. Life was easy. And we were all together. I love my life. I do. But sometimes I miss simpler times. You know.

What would you like to be known for?

Teaching those who the world pushes aside. 

I love teaching kids who present a "challenge," so to speak. 

Give me the kids who struggle a little. Give me the kids who need a little extra help to master education. Give me the kids who need an advocate to "fight" on their behalf, so they can have access to the education they deserve. Give me the kids who have trouble seeing or hearing or learning the same as their typical peers. Give me the kids who aren't as proficient in the English language. Give me the kids who have issues you and I could never fathom, the kids who are starving for love and attention and are acting out, exhibiting "strange" or very poor behavior. Honestly, that's when I'm the happiest.

If your house was burning, which three objects would you try and save?

Ok, so I'm assuming all people and pets have been rescued from the house already. And I'm assuming I'd already have a change of clothes with me. Right? :)

 So then, I'd go get...

1) my Bible
2) my most special photos
3) my computer or maybe my phone - Let's just pretend my phone is charging and is plugged into my computer. That way I could get both of them at once. That sounds fair. Doesn't it? :)

What do you have planned for tomorrow?

I'm going to be scoring ESL tests and writing reports on those students I'm testing today. Then I'll FINALLY start working in my classroom. I have to completely unpack my classroom, arrange the furniture, and make it presentable. And if I have time, I'll start prepping for my 5th graders' classwork. Then I'm having 3 of the new teachers over for dinner. We're having lasagna. Yum!

Where do you normally buy groceries?

There are a few small stores in my neighborhood. Casino, Mary Market, City Dia - Then I get my fruits and veggies from one of the vendors set up outside these stores. Sometimes I'll go to one of the bigger stores if I need something more specific. And if I need American food, I'll go to the American Food Store (yes, that's its actual name) and will get it there. It's expensive, though. So that one's rare.

If you were a superhero, what would your superhero name be?

Super Teacher :)

What's the secret to a good life?

a real, genuine relationship with Jesus Christ

What are you passionate about?

teaching - missions - God - family

July 2016 Reading

I've always loved to read. I remember as clear as day, as a little girl, sitting there holding a book and pretending to read. I hadn't even started school yet. But even at such a young age, I truly loved books. 

I've read a few books this month. 

So, in order to keep track of what I read, and to maybe offer suggestions to others, I thought I'd recap what I've read this month here on the blog...

*one*

Dirty God by Johnnie Moore

 

I'm not quite finished with this book, but I still chose to include it. The author uses Scripture and his own experiences with other cultures/religions, to show the uniqueness of the God of the Bible - the one true God, in that He is willing to be near us even when we're in the middle of our messes. He shows how Jesus didn't only associate with the rich and wealthy and "clean." He also hung out with the poor and the ones with "dirty" feet. Jesus went down to the trenches, so to speak, to offer hope and grace to those who needed it most. And He still does that today. 

I have to admit. It was the cover/title that piqued my interest. And I am so glad it did. This isn't a quick read. At least, it's not for me. This is a book full of information to study and think on, highlight, make notes, etc. It's changed the way I look at my own life and ministry. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

*two*

My Sister's Voice by Mary Carter

 

The main character in this book is living the life of ease and enjoyment, as she calls it, with a great job as an artist, a great boyfriend. And she just happens to be Deaf. Her world is shattered when she finds out that she has an identical twin sister, who didn't grow up in an orphanage like her and who went through life hearing everything around her. She's not bitter. She is incredibly happy with her life now (every aspect of it). ...just confused at what led their parents to make the decision to split the girls up all those years ago.

This was an enjoyable book to read. I think the author did a great job of describing aspects of the cultural differences of both the Deaf and the Hearing. And the storyline had so many twists and turns throughout.

*three*

Hello, It's Me by Wendy Markum

 

I picked up this book at a thrift store back home because it was cheap and looked kind of interesting. 

The main character is heartbroken when her husband dies unexpectedly one summer day. To somehow ease her broken heart, she starts calling his voicemail, just so she can hear his voice say "Hello, it's me." 

What gets weird in the book is that, at some point, she starts receiving calls from "him," giving her advice on different areas of life. Take this job. Do this activity with the kids. Date again. 

It's clearly a little out there. Honestly, it's the perfect "escape" type of book. It's  good for when you just want a mindless book to read - something that won't make you think too hard. It's interesting, but would I ever read it again or would I recommend it to others? Doubtful.

*four*

The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida

 

This book was a spur of the moment find in the school library the other day. It's written by a (then) 13 year old Japanese boy and answers all sorts of questions about what it's like for someone with severe Autism. What I like is tha Higashida is an expert on this. Why? It's his life. He has Autism.

This book is, in my opinion, a must read for anyone related to or working with a person with Autism. It answers so many questions that typically developing people have for people with Autism. 

I loved this book and will definitely be purchasing it for my own personal collection soon. 

The books I'm planning to read in August are...

Carly's Voice

The Rocket Boys

Tuesdays with Morrie

...along with a few other random titles I've seen in the school library I think I'll check out. We're blessed to have such an extensive library here. There are books for the youngest of readers all the way up to the oldest adults. I love it!

So what are you reading this month?

Hello August

July was such a busy, whirlwind month that it made the time just fly by. I started July off in a few days of training in Missouri. I spent the 4th on the road with my mom - not your most traditional holiday plans, but fun and memorable, nonetheless. I, then, spent a couple more days hanging out with my two favorite girls (my nieces). I shopped for my return to Senegal. Oh, and I did most of my packing before heading out of town again.

My mom and I then went to Mobile, Alabama for a week, where I spoke at a supporting church. We visited a couple different sets of good family friends and some of my missions supporters too. Then I spent a few days at the annual MEGA Conference put on by the State Dept. of Ed., where I learned a lot of truly valuable tips/strategies to better help me teach my kiddos this school year.

So what am I saying Hello to this month?

*one* 

While I have definitely, thoroughly, enjoyed myself, I've just been so busy with the AG kids program and ESL testing that I haven't really had a whole lot of time to spend in prep for my 5th graders. So, starting next week, my ESL testing load should hopefully lighten a bit and I can start on that. I have so many ideas for teaching my crew. I can't wait to implement them all :)

*two*

My birthday is this coming up Saturday (the 6th). 

Yes, I accept presents. 
No, I'm not kidding.

Ok, so actually, I am kidding. I love my birthday. I always have. It's not a conceited thing. 

It's just a "I'm grateful to be alive and celebrating another birthday" thing. 

I'm sad I can't be with my own family, but I am looking forward to spending the day with friends and surrogate "family". It's going to be a fun day! I can't wait :)

*three*

School starts in a few weeks. I'm so ready. Ok, well, let me rephrase. I'm so ready to see my kids again. But I'm not ready for school to start back, per se. I still have far too much to do at this point. But come August 17th... I'll be ready :)

*four*

Prepping for Kids Club... I bought an awesome curriculum to use in Kids Club this year (and maybe next year too, if I plan it right). I have been using one of the books with my AG kids the past 2 weeks and it's going great. I am so impressed with this series. I look forward to seeing our kids grow more and more as we learn about our Heavenly Father and all He has for us to learn. 

*five*

\
I love learning. I really do. I would totally be a professional student if I could. But alas, that costs far more money than I make :) At any rate, I plan to be doing quite a bit of studying/learning in my "free" time. I'm still working on my last 6 Berean/Global University classes for my Ordination with the Assemblies of God. I'm doing a bit of studying/reading on certain disabilities and unique qualities I'll be presented with this school year. I'm going to be working through an ASL book/dvd, learning more of that beautiful language. And of course, as always, I'll be studying the Word and making growing more and more in my Savior a high priority. 

Learning/Studying is fun for me. I'm a rare breed in that sense, I suppose :)