Life Update

Two major things took place in May and while I'm late posting about them on here, hopefully you've already heard the news since I've been so excited!

First, Jason and I graduated from William Carey! We completed their Educational Leadership program and received our Specialist degrees. While it was a lot of work, it was fun getting to do it with my favorite person by my side. What a special experience for us and then even more so, getting to graduate side by side! It was so special and we are thankful for all of the kind congratulatory words. 

In addition to graduating, I was nominated and received the honor of being selected as certified staff of the month for the district for the month of May. It was the sweetest way to wrap up year 10 and my transition into my new position within the district. 

This has been the busiest spring semester but, there have been some really sweet moments here of late. Receiving this honor ended up causing a lot of reflecting for me as this year came to an end. 

As stated above, after 10 years in my classroom, I am moving into a new position next year. I will be the Behavior Specialist/Behavior Support Teacher for Pre-K through 8th grade. I am incredibly excited for what is to come and looking forward to stepping in to this new role! 

Even with the excitement, this still feels bittersweet! I’ve been reminiscing with Jason on all the things as we are nearing the end of the school year. While I’m still going to be in Pearl, Northside has been the best gift over the years. I met my husband here, I have made life long friends, I’ve furthered my education, completed my National Boards, and so much more. The Lord has used so many people and experiences to shape me through this building on Harle Street. 

And my sweet students. I’ve had many students walk into my classroom doors throughout my time at Northside and I can tell you something special about each one of them. They have made a lasting impression on me and I know I learned just as much from them as they did from me. They have shaped me and changed me in so many ways and I am thankful for each and every one of them! They are the best part of my job 💚

My Mom always reminds me to think about what The Lord has taught you through situations. This is one of the big ones. A decade of my life has been shaped and marked by things that have happened at Northside. The Lord has been so, so good and I am thankful for His faithfulness and provision through working in a place and with people and am children who I love so much!

We were all asked to attend the board meeting for recognition which was so fun to experience together!

I spent the last week of school writing little notes to a few people who made a lasting impact on me during my time at Northside and one of the things that I was reminded of was my very first day on the job. Our principal started our first staff meeting by reminding us "we work unto God and not unto man" (Colossians 3:23). I knew on my first day that Northside was special but, I could have never comprehended the depths of how it would impact me in my adult life. I am blessed to have had a job I love so, so incredibly much and I am forever thankful. 

packed up this room for the last time after 10 years--so, so bittersweet. 

Our last, last day together at Northside. 

If you know me at all, you know how much I love this place and have enjoyed my 10 years teaching here. While I’m staying in the Pearl District, I’ll miss working alongside my favorite person 

1 Year Better

 

Today marks 1 year. 

It’s funny to look back on my childhood and realize that it started much earlier than I thought. I have described myself as a “scaredy cat” as a child to many people. I didn’t like to spend the night out places, I didn’t like to do anything I didn’t understand, I was always nervous on the first days of school, I wanted to know how things worked and felt uneasy when they couldn’t be explained. I feel like I had a wonderful childhood and the most loving family. This was something that was simply there. There was not a rhyme or reason to it or any sort of big event that I can look back on and say, “Ah, that’s where this all started”. 

Things leveled out once I was middle school aged. I would spend the night places, try things I wasn’t sure I was going to be good at, and lived, what I would call, a normal life. Extracurriculars, church events, family time, and a lot of times with friends. But even still, there were seeds that would come up. If my parents didn’t answer the phone when I called I would immediately worry something was wrong, if I saw something frightening on the news I wouldn’t be able to get it out of my mind. Events and thoughts like that swarmed my mind all of my teenage and young adult life. 

We know that with each stage of life, there are situations and circumstances that you will likely experience. Think about learning to drive, going on first dates, making decisions about where to go to college, your first fender bender, friendship changes, all things that could cause nerves and anxiety. I had times with high anxiousness throughout high school and college but nothing that became all-consuming and I certainly wasn’t labeling it anxiety at that time. 

I always contributed it to my personality. I am a feeler. I am sympathetic and empathetic. I consider these traits gifts from The Lord because it makes me soften towards people and helps me with connection and understanding. There are times though, where it becomes overwhelming and I feel things to the point that they impact my thoughts and my subconscious without even realizing it. When something happens, I usually think about how it makes other people feel before I consider how it makes me feel. 

Fast forward to adulthood and there was a timeframe where it seemed like one thing after another, after another, after another started to happen. If you know me, then you know about (what I call) our “puppy woes” that happened a few years ago. Since then, I have decided those events are what made my anxiety reach its peak. A few years later, there was a medical emergency that happened with a friend that was incredibly frightening, a school incident that was difficult to navigate, and then the pandemic started. To say everything felt overwhelming is an understatement. 

It was only after all of these things happened that I even started to consider seeing my doctor to talk about getting on medication. I had come to the conclusion that this was something that I had and something that I felt internally and deeply. Looking back, I was finally putting a name to something that has been present since childhood.

I would talk with my Mom about it a good bit and it was hard to explain that I was not dwelling on these situations but that I would subconsciously think about them. I would wake up in the middle of the night and my first thought out of sleep was about something that was bothersome to me. It is an overwhelming feeling when you realize how little control you have over it when you’re literally asleep and these thoughts wake you out of sleep. 

I didn’t realize how much my anxiety was impacting me until it wasn’t. 

It took me two years of talking to family, talking to friends, researching, and trying other natural remedies before I decided to talk to my doctor about it. And this is the point of my post. It wasn’t shame that kept me from going because I felt like I was open when talking about my feelings and struggles. I saw nothing wrong with seeing a doctor to get on medication. I didn’t think I would be any “less” if I did that. I honestly don’t know what kept me from seeing her for so long. Maybe I thought that with time it would go away like it had in the past. I’m not sure and that’s something that I will reflect on and think about. But what I do know is that it’s okay. 

It’s okay that it took me a while. 

It’s okay that I had questions. 

It’s okay that I have those feelings of anxiety because to me, they are linked to my empathy and that’s something that is good—it’s something that makes me who I am. 

But, it’s also okay that I needed help. 

It’s okay that a medication makes my mind feel at ease and brings balance. 

It’s okay that I didn’t know to what degree my anxiety was impacting me until I felt what it was like for it not to be ever present. 

My hope is that this serves as an encouragement to you. Especially if you’re reading this and thinking it sounds all too familiar. I just wanted to share that a year later, I feel better. 

Promise Keeper

I was walking to the office this morning with my mask on, without my usual “errand buddy” to limit the amount of people in the halls, and it was pouring down rain just seconds before. ⁣⁣⁣

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My teacher friends understand when I say this—it hits you at different times—how different this year is. Eating lunches in our classrooms, wearing face shields and masks, not getting to see our students smiling faces, having to plan virtual lessons, zones at recess—we’re working through a loss, honestly. ⁣⁣⁣

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This first week with kiddos has been incredibly different than years past but, it has been sweet. Even amongst the changes, there are threads of familiarity throughout the day and we press on & continue to invest in, love, care for & teach these children. ⁣⁣⁣

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You see, all of these changes and all of the unknowns, while difficult to navigate, haven’t changed our spirits. While today was dreary, The Lord so gently reminded me of His promises when I saw this rainbow. It reminded me of how as far back as when the first rainbow ever appeared (and even before), that He’s continued to be The Promise Keeper, The Protector, The Provider, and The Rock of Salvation for His children & that hasn’t changed just because the first week of school has. ⁣⁣

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This year, I’m choosing to look for the rainbows and clinging to His promises—and you know what, it could be the best year, yet. ⁣

Catch Up & Quarantine Pt. 1

It's time to play a little quarantine catch up since...well, we can't really go anywhere! 

So many fun things happened over the last month and even now, during our social distancing, isolation, quarantine, we have been trying to make the best of it so, here goes!

Sweet day-time snuggles with James. This little fella is growing like a weed and I can't wait until I can see him, snuggle with him again!

We celebrated Mom's birthday at the end of February.
One of the easiest people to celebrate.

Baby Showers for long time friends and two sweet little baby girls
(one that's been born since the shower and one that's coming soon!)

A Bridal/Wedding Shower for Katie and Harris at the church.
I had so much fun being a part of the hosting and celebrating for this soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs.

Annnnnd, my best friend had her second child, Ivy Lynne!
This sweet little bundle of love came into the world fast and furious (and on International Women's Day--what a day for a little girl to come along!) and she is just the snuggliest, cuddliest, little love.

Thankfully, I had 3-4 days of getting to visit and love on her and her parents some before all the coronavirus craziness came about.

Who ever knew when this all began that schools would suspend, some stores would close, churches would go fully online, restaurants would offer take-out or delivery only, and we'd be searching for toilet paper (of all things) because it keeps selling out. But, it has also been so incredibly neat to see people and communities rising up and encouraging one another and working together (from a distance) to make this an uplifting, bearable, (in a unique way) memorable time.

And now, some quarantine related content and a few of the ways we've been trying to make the best of this situation. These are the good parts that I want to make sure I remember years from now.

Aplos, a restauraunt in Highland Village is offering make your own pizza kits.
It was so much fun and made PLENTY of pizza for us to eat on through out the week (4 pizzas, 6 slices each pizza).

Since our school is currently closed until April 20th, our district has been posting pictures every day of teachers sharing messages with their classes/students. It's been so sweet to see and it's true what they say, we do miss them, love them, and hope to see them soon!

My second favorite book series, The Wingfeather Saga has been read aloud, live, every night at 7 by the author, Andrew Peterson. So stinking cool and something to look forward to every night!

Using my record player and supporting Magnolia Record Club while working from home. 

I've been the one grocery shopping because not only is it coronavirus season but, it's also pollen season so Jason has been staying in and he wanted to see the empty shelves. Thankfully, this has subsided some here recently and I feel like (other than toilet paper and major cleaning supplies) things are coming back in stock and people are able to get what they need. 

Thank goodness for technology to see this little cutie pie 

Lakeland Presbyterian going fully online and still being able to hear Papa Steve preach The Word even though we can't all meet and fellowship together.
But boy, isn't Ann Hatten sweet watching her Grando below.

 We're still able to be outside and bask in all the beautiful things that The Lord has given us.
These flowers, pretty blue skies and all the rain-free days we've been having. It's been so, so nice.

 The bridal shower that was posted above was supposed to have their wedding this past weekend.
The ceremony went on and we were able to watch via live stream and then, participated in my very first drive by "best wishes" for the bride and groom. Such a sweet ceremony! I was so glad we could “be there” with them, to celebrate their big day.

Sending out the most snail mail that I have in quite some time. A few birthday cards, a "thinking of you" card, and little notes of encouragement for each of my students. 

Our neighborhood has stepped it up. 

We have had so many people coming up with fun ideas to keep children entertained and ways to bring a little joy during these uncertain times. 

The biggest thing we've done is ask everyone to put rainbows in their windows--that way when people are out and about, they can look for the rainbows. They have also put hearts on the mailboxes of any healthcare worker that's in the neighborhood. We've been going on walks and it's hard for me to not tear up when I see these symbols of encouragement and community.  

Here's a cool write up and news segment on our neighborhood and the rainbows.

There's also been a group that has faithfully "worshipped from a distance" at 7:00 each night in the culdesac, ending the night with the singing of the doxology and a prayer. So sweet. 

Why the random Spider-Man picture? Well...here it goes.

One of the cooler things that's happened is that Jake Johnson, the actor that voices Peter Parker on "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse"--and plays Nick on "New Girl" posted on his instagram that he was sending out voice memos to people that emailed him and requested one to bring some encouragement to kiddos during this weird time. I emailed him on behalf of my class and lo and behold! I received a voice memo from him yesterday and already sent it out to my class. 

I'm not entirely sure how to upload just an audio but...let's give it a try because it's definitely something I want to remember. 

Update--I was able to record the screen on my phone, so here you go!

It goes without saying that these are times unlike any other. 

The first coronavirus case in Mississippi was reported on March 10th or 11th (I think it was the 11th) and I'm considering my timeline since then. 21 days and the end is not in sight. 

My thoughts are this: Think about what God is trying to teach me and show me during this time, make the best of it and  find some way to make today a good day. 

James Edwin Jussely 1/29/20

 James Edwin Jussely made his appearance on Wednesday afternoon on January 29th. 

He is the sweetest, tiniest, little nugget of love!

It was such a fun afternoon waiting for his arrival--talking about what we thought he'd look like, what time he would come, how big he would be, all those fun things. 

 My big brother is a Daddy and he is taking his role by storm!

It is the sweetest thing watching you and Blair love baby James. 

LOOK AT THAT SWEET FACE!

 Blair, you are killing the Mom game and I am so proud of how you've transitioned into motherhood--it has been the sweetest thing to watch--you are a rockstar!

 The first time I got to see him with his eyes opened. 

This last week, they had some newborn photos taken by Charlotte Stringer and they are stunning.

James looks so sweet and tiny--I could just eat him up! 

 Look at this brand new, family of three!

 Being an Aunt is one of my favorite things in the world!  

Thank you Jesus for another sweet little love bug to add to our family to love on, invest in, and cherish! James is a sweet little treasure and we are so thankful he's finally here! 

HA! Our first attempt at a selfie. Don't worry, we will get better when he can hold his head up!

6th

Jason & I started our new school year last week! 

My 6th year and Jason's 7th year (which is so crazy to think about). 

 I am SO EXCITED about this school year!

There are many, many changes. 

We added an additional self-contained special education teacher due to the large number of students we've had and I am most excited about that. 

 I am so thankful to be back down to a smaller class size and really dive in with each student. 

I also have a new assistant teacher in my classroom this year and she is awesome & has been a perfect fit for our classroom. The kiddos love her and I am just over the moon! 

 We are starting the school year with 6 students (whaaaat?! We served 14 kids last year--12 of them in the classroom allllllll day long).  6 students feels nice! 

 Speaking of 6 students they are SWEET, like really sweet and some of them are just down right hilarious! Mrs. Rideout and I will be laughing all year long. But most of all, I am looking forward to seeing their growth and showing them just how smart and capable they truly are. 

Even with a year starting off with SO many changes, I am looking forward to it and have a feeling that it will be a fantastic year! 

Here's to year 6! May it be the best one yet!