Friday Favorites - Teaching and Learning Edition

Today, I'm linking up with Erika, Andrea and Narci and sharing a few of my favorites in terms of teaching and learning...

I just got back from the 2016 MEGA Conference, put on annually by the Alabama State Department of Education. I've participated in many education-related workshops, seminars, and conferences over the years, but MEGA is always, by far my favorite!

They offer an amazing variety of workshops for teachers, administrators, and other education professionals to choose from in order to aid them in bettering themselves and their teaching (leading, etc.). 

The first workshop I attended was on language planning for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. While planning for which workshops I'd attend, I remember thinking that this session would be my one of my favorites. This is an area of education I'm not the most knowledgable in. So I was looking forward to learning as much as I could from this speaker. I was looking forward to gaining some new ideas and tips and strategies and just general knowledge I could take back with me to Dakar. Y'all, this workshop definitely did not disappoint. And yes, it was most definitely one of my favorites of the week.

P.S. A somewhat related item to this... The speaker is Deaf. I knew this going in. So I made it my mission to practice an introduction for myself in ASL, ahead of time, so if the opportunity arose, I could at some point introduce myself. And later in that day, I got the chance to go introduce myself and apologize for being a few minutes late (thanks to a wreck/traffic on the interstate) to her workshop. Anywho - I introduced myself, told her I'm from Alabama, but working in Senegal now, and told her why I loved her meeting so much. And I answered her questions and I did it all in ASL and I only needed a little interpretation help here or there from a friend.

Another favorite workshop was the one on Leading Literacy in a K-5 Setting. I have always loved to read. Reading is most definitely one of my most favorite things to do. And knowing that reading is also a favorite of my current group of students, I thought that choosing any workshops having to do with reading/literacy would be a smart choice for me to make. I learned so many tips to take back and use with my favorite kiddos when school starts back next month. I can't wait!

Another favorite workshop was one on Managing Stress in the Workplace. Did you know that people in Education jobs (teachers, principals, nurses, office managers, etc.) are often some of the most stressed people? Stress is definitely not my most favorite thing to do. Nor has it ever been. But the Lord knows I've chosen to feel stressed far too much in my life. So, knowing that, I made the choice to attend this workshop. And honestly, going into it, I didn't really have high hopes for it. But y'all... This lady spoke from a personal and Christian perspective. She incorporated her faith and the Word in her teaching. And if I'm being honest, I'd have to say that this workshop ranked very high on my list of sessions attended. God knew what He was doing when He led me to choose to attend this workshop. What a blessing it was!

Another workshop that made my list of favorites was the one on Embracing the Culture of English Language Learners in Classroom Settings. The speaker in this workshop gave us so many strategies for taking stock of, and then incorporating into our classrooms, all the gifts (yes, gifts) of our students and their families, as a result of each of their unique cultural/familial characteristics. I've always said that one of my most favorite parts of teaching at Dakar Academy is the diversity of our staff/student body. I love working with students from so many different countries. I love learning about their backgrounds, their families, their home countries, their religions, their languages, their cultures, and on and on. I love having the opportunity to be surrounded by people different from myself. 



I feel totally and completely blessed by the calling our Heavenly Father has placed on my life. 

Coffee Date Linkup

 

Today I'm linking up with Amber and Erin for their bi-monthly Coffee Date linkup, where we pretend we're on a coffee date with a friend and chat about anything random ;)

Well, since this is our very first coffee date, I must be honest and tell you something... I really, really dislike coffee. I've tried plain. I've tried flavored. I've tried it hot and iced. It's just not for me. 

 

But tea... Tea's my thing.

So you drink your coffee and I'll drink my tea and let's chat...

{one}

I've spoken at six different churches this summer. I've connected/reconnected with so many supporters. It's been such a busy time, but such a good one. I've seen so many different ways God has blessed me this summer. I love seeing His hand at work!

 

{two}

My mom and I were at the house of some good family friends the other day and we all got to watch the Andrew Zimmerman show where he went to Senegal. It was so cool to see places I've actually visited in real life. It was like a taste of Senegal brought right here at home in Alabama. ...so fun!

 

{three}

I feel so grateful to be able to be at Alabama's MEGA Conference this week, learning so much about and challenging myself to become a better teacher. I'll be participating in workshops on engaging students in Math, incorporating positive behavior supports in the school/classroom, testing ELL students, lesson planning for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, all about literacy/phonics/reading, and more. I'll be in sessions from 8:15-4:30 every day the next few days, so I will definitely be able to get good use out of my Thinking Hat this week.

And yes, I am the weirdo that chooses to do something like this just a few days before leaving to go back to Senegal. Summer Break includes learning/work time for me ;)

 

{four}

Y'all, I know the promises God has spoken to me. I know what the Word says. I know to trust and believe and not question God. But sometimes... Sometimes those doubts and worries and stresses creep in and what I feel and what I know don't always connect. 

So, what's the answer?

I've been spending far more time than usual in the Word and in prayer. 

And do you know what God has been teaching me?

Trust.

Faith.

Patience.

He promised. He will deliver. 

I need to wait and TRUST in Him.

I need to wait and have FAITH in Him.

I need to wait PATIENTLY in Him.

 

 

Q & A - Heading Back Overseas

It seems like just yesterday I landed in Alabama, ready to tackle my summer. 

I knew I'd be a busy, but boy oh boy... 

I had know idea how much so. 

I have literally had only 2 days "off" and that was while I was in Missouri. 

 

Anywho... 

As it gets closer to time to head back, I keep answering many of the same questions. So I thought I would compile them and do a Q & A post on here.

And as a little FYI, in the spirit of total honesty... 

Yes, I honestly have been asked every single one of these questions more than once. 

I promise.

So here we go...

How long will you be gone?

I'm not sure if I'll be back for a quick visit at Christmas time or not. So it could be as soon as 5 months or as long as 11 months.

What is holding you back from making plans to come at Christmas?

Flights are expensive. And yes, I could afford to save the money up to come back. I just don't know if I could justify the expense "right away." We'll see...

It seems like you just got to Alabama. Why are you leaving so soon?!

You're right. I had/have 6 weeks from touchdown to takeoff. I'm heading back early to work with some pretty awesome kiddos with my organization.

How'd fundraising go?

I raised my full cash (one-time donations) budget fairly quickly. And I'm super close to having the monthly budget raised. I only need $300 more in monthly commitments and I'll be fully funded with AGWM. And if I'm being honest, I'm getting a bit desperate. I need this amount raised ASAP! So shameless plug time... Would you prayerfully consider partnering with me to raise this amount and helping me continue fulfilling the call and ministry God has placed on my heart? Send me an email at enichols85@gmail.com and I can get you set up to do that.

 

Now, enough about money... ;)

How will your job be different when you return to Senegal?

I'll still be at the same school. But I'll now be teaching 5th grade. And I'll also be helping out with ESL testing/placement since, at the moment, I'm the only one who knows how to give the tests. I love data and learning info like that! Oh and I will also be leading Kids Club again. I'm going to be busy. But I wouldn't have it any other way!

You moved apartments too, right?

Yes. I moved on campus. My commute every morning will now be AMAZING ;)

So what were the highlights of your time in the States?

Seeing family and friends, of course... But I think one of the best parts of my time here has been visiting churches and seeing so many people interested in missions! I love it!

I heard you had a rough time right after getting back here. Can I ask what happened?

My aunt passed away less than a week after I arrived back in the States. The issues surrounding her death were quite intense and caused a lot of misinformed people to say some really hurtful/untrue things about my family. It was a mess. But, as my mom said, we know the truth. And more importantly than that, God knows the truth. 

Wow. That was intense. How'd you go on and be so positive while speaking at churches and all so soon after that?

Honestly, it was a little hard. But y'all... I serve a big God. I may not always fully understand why bad and painful things happen in life, but I know God's always in control. I just have to trust in Him. So that's what I did.

What are some specific (maybe unique) ways God has blessed you the last few weeks?

Just to name a few... I had to have a rental car for my trip to KS and MO since my car couldn't have made that trip. Well, a supporting church found out how much it'd cost and paid for it for me. Another church gave me gift cards to use to buy goodies for the MKs I'll be working with in the program I'm doing when I first return to Dakar. A friend heard I wanted to buy a few essential oils from her and ended up giving them, and a whole bunch of others, to me for free! And while this last one may not seem like much, it was at the time... I'd had a particularly difficult, very emotional, day on my last day in MO. And that night, my mom and I went through the drive thru at Sonic. Well, when I got to the window, I found out that the car ahead of me had paid for my order. That little random act of kindness totally made my night. And these are only a few ways God has blessed me in my time home.

What have you learned about yourself this summer?

I've come to realize that I like to talk a big talk when it comes to fear and giving control over to God, but I'm not that good at actually putting my words into action. Fear is something I've always struggled with. But in the last 2 years, it's been so strong at times, I felt like it was totally gripping my heart, leaving me often sleeping with the lights on. And that's if I even slept at all. My sleep patterns have been so horrible! Then during the day, I'd be paranoid, always looking over my shoulder. Outwardly, I looked ok. No one knew I was dealing with this. But inwardly, I was a mess. Even I didn't realize how much so. Well, towards the end of last week, I was in a way, forced to deal with all of those deep down fear and other emotions. And it was painful. I cried. I talked. I cried some more. And you know what... I won't say I'm 100% "over it," but I am so very much better than I was before!

 

What have you learned about God this summer?

...that I serve a big, big God who loves me so much that He cares about the little - all the way to the big - things in my life. And yes, of course I have always known that. But y'all, I've seen God prove this so many times in the few weeks I've been home this summer.

Is it hard being a single woman going to the mission field?

At times, no. I don't have a husband or kids. I can just pack up and go. But y'all, I'd be lying if I said, I didn't wish I had a family to go with me. So if you know of any single guys who love Jesus, send them my way. Haha. Kidding...sort of :)

Online dating is the new "it" thing. Have you tried it?

It's quite pricey. And honestly, even if it wasn't... I just don't think it's for me. I still hold firm to a promise God gave to me many years ago that He'll send the right man my way when it's time. Will I still be in Dakar then? Will I be living back in Alabama? I honestly don't know. Either way, it'll be in God's perfect timing and will. And you know...I'm okay to wait on God.

Now, enough about my love life (or lack thereof). Here are a few more questions I received...

What song has been on "repeat" for you lately?

Have you heard "Lights Shine Bright" by tobyMac? One of my students actually was the one who told me about it. I love it!

 

What was the most commonly asked question you get?

Is it safe where you are?

Is it safe where you are?

At the moment, yes. Now let's pray it stays that way :) In all seriousness, I can't live my life in fear for my safety. I have to cling to the peace that can only come front above.

 

And with that, we'll end Q & A time :)

Have a question that wasn't answered?

Either add it in the comments section or send me an email at enichols85@gmail.com

Friday Favorites

 

I'm linking up with Narci, Andrea and Erika today and sharing some of my favorites from this week.

My time out of state was good, but seeing a sign welcoming me back to my favorite state was so very nice :)

 

BBQ-ing on the 4th of July is typically a favorite pastime of mine. However, my mom and I were on the road all day that day so we celebrated with a little Taco Bell instead :)

 

As soon as we got home to Alabama, we headed to do one of my favorite pastimes of all... Time spent with my two favorite little ladies is always a joy ;)

 

And speaking of favorite ladies, my mom and I got to spend the mornings today with my aunt and two of my cousins. We had the best time eating lunch, going through old pictures, and just chatting and laughing with them.

 

I guess favorite ladies is a trend for this post. My favorite sister-in-law is pretty amazing...just sayin' ;)

 

And one last favorite lady picture... My mom spoke at church the other night. Listening to her speak is always a favorite!

 

Friday Favorites

 

I'm linking up with Narci, Andrea and Erika today and sharing some of my favorites from the past 2 weeks...

Last week one of my absolute most favorite bestest friends came for a visit. We shopped a little, ate good ol' Southern home cookin', learned some AL history, visited some of my past, hung out with my family and friends, and did a whole lot of talking. My time with her was definitely one of my most favorite events from the past two weeks.

 

On a way less serious note, I've been wearing my newest favorite necklace quite a bit. I bought it at a little store in Dakar. I love it!

 

Laughing is a favorite past time of mine and boy did I laugh when I saw this awesomeness for sale at a store in Springfield the other day...

 

While I did pass on buying the item above, I couldn't pass up the deliciousness below. White chocolate almond bark might just be my new favorite sweet treat! Yum!

 

Oh, and speaking of tasty favorites... Hello Panda Express. You make my heart happy :)

 

Oooh and you know what else is deliciously awesome? Andy's Frozen Custard is a favorite stop for many, including myself, when visiting Springfield. 

 

Ok, one more food picture... 

Breakfast food has always been one of my favorites. Well, yesterday, my mom and I went to this place in Springfield that boasts an amazing breakfast. So we decided to try them out. I had the Greek Breakfast Skillet. It was absolutely delicious!

 

Ok, I lied. Here's one more food related picture. My mom and I visited a store that had almost every kind of jerky you could imagine. FYI... Jerky is my favorite :) 

Anywho, they had these funny shirt designs and I took pictures of some of them to share with my brother. Laughing with him is definitely my favorite!

 

But enough about food... 

Here's a "funny" someone shared on Facebook recently. I laughed only because of how true it was to my life. Worrying may not be one of my most favorite things to do, but God knows I spend far too much time on it all the same...

 

And speaking of wordy posts...

Someone shared one of my favorite Bible verses the other day. I love it!

 

I haven't been able to spend as much time as I'd like with my two favorite people since I've had to travel so much the past two weeks. But I'll get to see them again in just a few days :)

 

 

My mom and I have been on the road a lot lately. Spending time exploring random little cities and sites has been so much fun. Of course, any time spent with this lady is my favorite :)

 

 

And speaking of my favorite lady, look at this picture of the two of us. I was playing around with the filters on one of my phone's apps and came up with this. I think it may possibly be my new favorite picture of the two of us.

 

Shopping for my class is also a favorite past time of mine. I can't wait 'til school starts back and I get to see my squirrely crew again! Ok, well, maybe I can wait. Summer Break is pretty nice :)

 

One of my favorite roles in life is that of Missionary. What an honor and privilege it is to be called by God to help fulfill His Great Commission in Senegal. When I stopped by the AG Headquarters the other day and saw one of my favorite flags, I was reminded of the awesomeness of God's calling.

 

And last, but certainly not least...

Want to know what else is my favorite?

Gaining new partners/supporters in missions is a favorite for sure! I love seeing people with a heart for missions! And if you'd like to help me reach my goal of 29 people in 16 days at $10 a month to raise my remaining missions budget, either comment on this post, send me an email, or visit the following link.

https://giving.ag.org/Give/Details/aec97232-a98e-467c-a25b-5a48f73940f3

What's Up June

It's the last Wednesday in June, so it's time for this month's What's Up Wednesday post.

Aren't you excited? :)

 

Today I'm linking up with  Mel, Shay, and Sheaffer for this month's What's Up Wednesday post.

Every month we answer the same questions based on how things are currently going in our lives. The questions are...

 

What am I eating this week?

My mom and I have driven a little over 1200 miles in the past 6 days and will drive about that same amount by the time we get back home next week. That makes for a lot of drive-thru visits...

 

What am I reminiscing about? 

We  were just in Kansas. So I was reminiscing about the summer I visited my parents there. My parents were pastoring a church there and my dad was so very excited to show me all around the city and to introduce me to their church members and their friends. Ah... Memories :)

 

What am I loving?

I'm loving having so much time with my Mama :)

 

What have I been up to?

One of my bestest (yes, I know that's not a word) friends came for a visit last week! I may or may not have been super excited! ;)

 

What am I dreading?

I'm already dreading the goodbyes that'll come next month. Because while I am definitely looking forward to going back to Africa, it's still so hard to leave...

 

What am I working on? 

Raising the rest of my missions support (my "budget")... I've spoken at 5 churches already and still have 1 more scheduled. It makes for a lot of traveling, which can be tiring at times. But I love getting to meet so many new people and getting to share my heart for Senegal and for Dakar Academy too!

 

What am I excited about?

As much as I'm dreading the goodbyes that'll be coming next month, I am still very excited to get back to Dakar. I'm going to be spending quite a bit of time with some pretty cool MKs and also planning ahead for 5th grade.

 

What am I watching?

I haven't been watching much TV at all. The most I've watched has been cartoons with my nieces :)

 

What am I reading?

I've been reading through this stack of books, writing out plans for lessons and activities for Kids Club next year. I can't wait!

 

What am I listening to?

I've been driving quite a bit thanks to speaking at a church in Kansas and then having meetings in Missouri. So I'm thankful this car has a way to connect my phone and listen to my own music. My mom (AKA...my roadtrip buddy) however may not appreciate my music choices :)

 

What am I wearing?

I bought these shoes at a local thrift store a few days after landing. They were brand new, but only $2.99! They're super cute and comfy too! I see them getting a lot of use...especially now that my morning walk to work won't include ankle deep sand ;)

 

What am I doing this weekend?

I'm in Springfield, Missouri for a few days of training/meetings. 

 

What am I looking forward to next month?

I'm looking forward to spending more time with family, listening to my mom speak at her church, then my last speaking engagement at a church my dad pastored when I was little, a teacher's conference in Mobile, and getting back to Dakar (and the kids program I'll be leading when I get back).

What else is new?

I've lost about 10 pounds since leaving for Senegal in February. And that's while not even trying. So now that I'm actually trying, I'm hoping for even more. Oh and I got a haircut a couple weeks ago... That probably helped me lose a few pounds ;)

 

 

And each month, there's a special question. This month's question is...

What's your favorite 4th of July tradition?

My family has always grilled out on the 4th of July. But since my mom and I will be driving between 11 and 12 hours that day, heading home, I think we'll have to settle for someone else doing the cooking that day :)

One thing is for sure... I'll be wearing my red, white, and blue. 

Happy (early) Birthday USA!