Incredible week

It has been an incredible week, to say the least. It has actually been a week-and-a-half since I last wrote. It's kind of weird. I've missed writing, but I haven't really had time to sit and write. Once I get back on a regular schedule, I'm sure I will have more of a chance to write here on a regular basis.

The timing just came together really nice for things this past week. I learned that a job was coming available and I made sure that I was ready for it. I had that nice resume and was ready to go. I went for it! I called the principal. I got an interview. Just having the interview thrilled me. But going into the interview, something in me told me that this was the job for me. I felt more ready than I have ever felt for an interview. I went into not only confident, but proud of what I have accomplished over the past few years.

During the interview, I was asked why I should be hired. Words just flowed. Here's the bottom line (luckily, I was applying for a Catholic school, so I could speak my mind freely):

I believe that God has spent the last year preparing me for THIS job. Most of my experience had been with intermediate and above (elementary). The past year has focused on primary. I did my student teaching in kidnergarten and third grade. The majority of my substitute teaching was done in first and second grade. I have been collecting resources. As I went through them, I found that the majority of them were for second and third grade and for science and social studies. This half-time position focuses on teachign science and social studies. The other thing for which I am responsible is Daily Language Review (writing) and I am a skilled writer. God chose this job for me long before it existed. And he chose me for this job before I was prepared. But now, the job is available and I am prepared. Everything led to this moment.

Long story short, I got the job.

I GOT THE JOB!

I will be teaching second grade half-time. I will teach science, social studies, and Daily Language Review. So, I should be writing lesson plans. I should be preparing for the first day of school. But, I needed to first share my joy. I have worked three days, including a couple of hours today. Yes, I worked on Sunday. I needed to be ready. Connor went with me. We shelved books. We put up bulletin boards. We got ready.

Tomorrow is the first day of school. Tomorrow is the first day of my career. Wow! Just, wow! I am ecstatic!

Over the last week, I experienced co-parenting successes. I witnessed my son's first week of school. I saw my daughter have a sick day where her dad had to pick her up instead of me.

My future is SO bright I GOTTA wear shades! Yep! I do. I have a bright future ahead. Things are going well for my little family. I pray it continues.

It has not been without some issues. I am actually struggling with some anger directed at God right now. I will work through it, with time. But, it will take time.

Just over a year ago, the kids and I moved out of the women's shelter. We first spent a couple of days with my family at our family ranch. We hiked, we visited, we shared in family traditions and made new memories. From there, we went to stay with two very dear friends from church. These friends helped through a difficult period of transition. They watched the kids while I attended class. They fed us. They gave us some amazing experiences, including feeding chickens. It was so wodnerful to feel so loved and so supported. I am thankful beyond words. Now, Ms. A is facing a very difficult health crisis. As a result, I am experiencing not a crisis of faith, but flat-out anger. I know God is there. I do not understand why things are playing out the way they are. Why do people who are so full of love and joy and grace suffer while others who bring misery and difficulty to those around them seem to strive? I.do.NOT.understand! I don't get it. But, as my rector pointed out today, 1) it's ok to be angry and 2) miracles happen.

So, I ask you...please pray. Pray for Ms. A. Pray for her husband, her daughters, all of her loved ones. Pray for healing. Pray for a miracle. Pray. Just pray. And, whatever happens, I know God will be there.

Pray also for S as she works through some of her divorce ridiculousness. I have yet to understand why power and control rule certain people, but those two issues do. They don't care about the people. They don't care who they hurt, even if it is themselves. They care only about maintaining whatever control they can. It is silly. Sometimes, I just want to write in the sky: MOVE ON! Instead, I pray. Another friend, Chicago, needs prayer for the same reason. Isn't is sad? There are so many men in the world who would rather maintain control and try to hurt the women they once took a vow to "love, honor, and cherish" that it makes me question so much. There are lots of guys who claim to be good guys. Lots of guys who claim that chivalry "is not dead." I know there are good guys. I've seen great examples of great men in my family. But, there is something wrong with the 30-somethings and that makes me question how many good guys there really are.

I'm a great "catch." But, finding someone who wants kids, but doesn't necessarily want kids of his own and who is willing to meet some of my romantic dreams will likely never happen. That's ok. Would I like to date? you bet! Would I like to find one of the good guys? Duh! of course. If it doesn't happen, will I be disappointed? Probably. Will it be the end of the world? Nah...life goes on and so will I. I can still raise my son to be one of the good guys. And, I will. One day, there will be a very lucky young lady because my son will do right. He better. or else, he'll have to deal with his mama.

And so....here we are....

PRAY PRAY PRAY

My first week with students. CD's second week of school. Ms. A and her health crisis. S and Chicago with their Big D issues....

Oh! And, one last thing...there is a heck of an event coming up next weekend! I pray it all comes together nicely this week and that the people who attend enjoy it! I am so excited! I ahve worked hard on this, as have a few others from church and I hope and pray it is all worthwhile for the parish.

Love and hugs, dear readers! Have a great start to the week!