Christmas Tradition

I've always been a fan of having Christmas traditions. I particularily like the ones that are creative and special to our family. However, this year I decided to create one all by myself.

It involves my car and $500 worth of repairs. Apparently, starting last Christmas, my car determines it needs a christmas gift. And since I don't freely give it, it demands it. And it demands around $500.

Merry Christmas Derby to you and your new shocks (and for the back brakes in the future).

Gideon Dreams

I'll admit it. Last night before I went to bed I was thinking about dreams and visions (specifically about Joseph with Pharoah's dreams...just taught that in class). So, tired that I was and frusturated with thinking about my future, I decided to ask God for a sign. ????

Then last night I dreamt about teaching in a different school (some of my same students were there). I was playing with this adorable toddler, he had dark curly hair. As I was holding him, he turned to me, and said, "Once your done your year here, you should come to where I am in ....... (don't remember the name)."

Now I'm more confused then ever. It's not that I don't believe that God can use dreams, He's so powerful that He can do things we cannot even begin to comprehend. I just am like Gideon, give me another sign. Give me proof that I should leave the comfort of my security and job that I love for something else. Give me proof that it was a message and not just my subconscious sorting through the issues of the day. Give me proof that it was a message from God and not a twisting from Satan. Let me feel peace!!

Afluence

Today I went wedding dress shopping with my mom and my sister. Wow!! So many beautiful dresses, so many different styles, so many different accessories. I can't believe how much the wedding industry plays on "it's your day, do what you want."

I was disgusted today, I really was. How on earth has a wedding celebration turned into legitimately spending $1000-2000 on one dress you will only wear once?

Think, think. What really is a wedding? It's a day to celebrate the fact that two people are making a commitment to each other in front of God and their family/friends. Why all the fuss? Celebrate the reason. I still am overwhelmed how the industry has managed to change it so much. (hint: $$)

Home Sweet Home

Ah, it never felt this good before to be home for the holidays. Try teaching 23 students who know that christmas is coming and are excited.

Intent

We got our letter of intent yesterday for teaching. We are to give a hint towards are intentions for next year (should I stay or should I go now).

I don't know. I love it here but I still have so many dreams. Sometimes I think we get too many options. If I knew this was my only choice - then so be it and I'd deal with it. Instead, I keep thinking of so many other things that I would like to try yet.

And then there's always the focus - what's more enjoyable, what uses my gifts the best, where will I be happy, where should I be?

When I grow up...

I had an interesting conversation with two Grade 3 students yesterday at family skate. I was skating along with them, holding thier cute little hands, when they gave me the biggest compliments in the world.

This is how my day/week/month was made:

Miss Slotegraaf, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" to the child on the left.

"I want to be a Grade 6 teacher," she replied, "just like you."

Miss Slotegraaf, moved by the compliment turned to the child on the right, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

This child, smiling hugely, looked up at Miss Slotegraaf and replied, "I want to be Miss Slotegraaf."

A kid can dream can't they?