Overall it was a great weekend with family. I took lots of pictures of all the kiddos, because let's face it I am that aunt that shows her nieces and nephews off.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Independence Day Weekend
This past weekend most of the fam was at the lake to celebrate July 4th. The Watkins came down on Wednesday and the Scotts got here Thursday night. We basically spent the whole weekend swimming at the pool. The Scotts introduced a new game to play, Diboo-Daboo.l We all wished Katie, Amy, and David were there the whole time. It would have uped the competition in the game. Beckham swam almost the whole weekend without water wings! Way to go bud! Ainsley's laugh was infectious. Laura is growing up so fast and is a great baker. Andrew is competitive as they come and loves his dog and sisters. Emma is so mature and sweet, we had a great talk the first night they got here. Sarah is so sweet, she waves and says "Hiiii!" and "Byyyyyye".
Overall it was a great weekend with family. I took lots of pictures of all the kiddos, because let's face it I am that aunt that shows her nieces and nephews off.
Overall it was a great weekend with family. I took lots of pictures of all the kiddos, because let's face it I am that aunt that shows her nieces and nephews off.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Rest in Me
I am constantly finding myself worrying about the future or beating myself up about the past. During my daily reading from Jesus Calling I read this. The author writes as if it is God speaking directly to her and then mixes in verses He speaks to her. I heart it!
Rest with me a while. You have journeyed up a steep, rugged path in recent days. The way ahead of you is shrouded in uncertainty. Look neither behind you nor before you. Instead, focus your attention on Me, your constant Companion. Trust that I will equip you fully for whatever awaits you on your journey.
I designed time to be a protection for you. You couldn't beat to see all your life at once. Though I am unlimited by time, it is in the present moment that I meet you. Refresh yourself in My company, breathing deep draughts of My Presence. The highest level of trust is to enjoy Me moment by moment. I am with you, watching over you wherever you go.
Psalm 143:8; Genesis 28:15
Isn't God amazing!
Rest with me a while. You have journeyed up a steep, rugged path in recent days. The way ahead of you is shrouded in uncertainty. Look neither behind you nor before you. Instead, focus your attention on Me, your constant Companion. Trust that I will equip you fully for whatever awaits you on your journey.
I designed time to be a protection for you. You couldn't beat to see all your life at once. Though I am unlimited by time, it is in the present moment that I meet you. Refresh yourself in My company, breathing deep draughts of My Presence. The highest level of trust is to enjoy Me moment by moment. I am with you, watching over you wherever you go.
Psalm 143:8; Genesis 28:15
Isn't God amazing!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
A-Z Survey
A
Available: Yep
Age: 26...wow that seems so old.
Annoyance: Disrespectful people. Lazy people.
Animals? Nope, although I fell in love with Miv's dog, Wrigley
B
Best feeling in the world: Being in love.
Best weather: Sunny, but not too hot
Been in love: Yes, but it was awhile ago.
Been on stage: Yep, I think the last time was for the 3rd grade play.
Boys: Some of my best friends.
C
Candy: Chocolate please.
Chinese / Mexican food: Tough one...I like both.
Cake or pie: Cake for sure. Red Velvet please.
Continent to visit: I'm moving to China in about a month. I want to go to all of them.
D
Dancing in the rain: Too cliche.
Drop things: Not very often, if I do it's my phone.
Dog: Cinders when I grew up, God only knows where he ended up.
Diamonds: Sure? Not sure what I'm supposed to say here.
E
Eyes: Hazel. When I cry they turn really green.
Everyone’s got: A need for Jesus.
F
First thought when you wake up: Thank you for waking me up this morning. Then, man I want to keep sleeping!
Food: Too hard to narrow it down. I love me some ice cream.
G
Greatest fear: Failure in any aspect of my life.
Gum: Used to chew Cotton Candy Bubble Gum before every high school game.
H
Hair color: Brown with highlights
Happy: Most the time, I am very blessed.
Holiday: Thanksgiving with the whole fam. I also love the 4th of July.
I
Ice cream: Peanut Butter and Chocolate
Instrument: Nope, I played violin in Elementary school for a year.
J
Jewelry: Fun to accessorize.
Job: Excited about moving to China to teach!
K
Keep a journal? Randomly, I need to get better at it. It seems the only time I write anything in them is when I am going through something.
Kissing: It's been awhile...
L
Laughed so hard you cried: In Atlanta with KatieRo telling a story.
Last time slept: Not well. Kept waking up.
M
Movies: Anything except horror/scary. NO THANK YOU!
Motion sickness: Nope, can't say I have.
N
Not ready for: Missing my family and friends.
Name: Megan, lol. I have kids' names picked out, is that crazy?
O
One wish: I couldn't narrow it down to one, plus I think that is a cheesy question.
P
Perfect pizza: Depends on my mood. I do love homemade BBQ Chicken.
Pets: Nope
Q
Quote you’re loving: “It's always smarter to go straight than to move in the best of circles"
R
Reality TV: It's like a train wreck, I can't help watching it.
S
Song of the moment: Anything Michael Jackson...RIP
Salad Dressing: Um YES!!!
Strawberries: Not a big fan
T
Thunderstorms: Don't mind them if I'm not alone.
Trust: Don't have much in guys.
U
Unpredictable: Fun, but I like to know what is going on.
V
Vacation spot: Caribbean Islands, anywhere with a secluded beach.
W
Weakness: Thinking I can change/improve people.
Worst feeling: Regrets.
X
X-rays: I have had many.
Y
Yellow: Bright and cheerful.
Z
Zoo animal: Giraffes!
Available: Yep
Age: 26...wow that seems so old.
Annoyance: Disrespectful people. Lazy people.
Animals? Nope, although I fell in love with Miv's dog, Wrigley
B
Best feeling in the world: Being in love.
Best weather: Sunny, but not too hot
Been in love: Yes, but it was awhile ago.
Been on stage: Yep, I think the last time was for the 3rd grade play.
Boys: Some of my best friends.
C
Candy: Chocolate please.
Chinese / Mexican food: Tough one...I like both.
Cake or pie: Cake for sure. Red Velvet please.
Continent to visit: I'm moving to China in about a month. I want to go to all of them.
D
Dancing in the rain: Too cliche.
Drop things: Not very often, if I do it's my phone.
Dog: Cinders when I grew up, God only knows where he ended up.
Diamonds: Sure? Not sure what I'm supposed to say here.
E
Eyes: Hazel. When I cry they turn really green.
Everyone’s got: A need for Jesus.
F
First thought when you wake up: Thank you for waking me up this morning. Then, man I want to keep sleeping!
Food: Too hard to narrow it down. I love me some ice cream.
G
Greatest fear: Failure in any aspect of my life.
Gum: Used to chew Cotton Candy Bubble Gum before every high school game.
H
Hair color: Brown with highlights
Happy: Most the time, I am very blessed.
Holiday: Thanksgiving with the whole fam. I also love the 4th of July.
I
Ice cream: Peanut Butter and Chocolate
Instrument: Nope, I played violin in Elementary school for a year.
J
Jewelry: Fun to accessorize.
Job: Excited about moving to China to teach!
K
Keep a journal? Randomly, I need to get better at it. It seems the only time I write anything in them is when I am going through something.
Kissing: It's been awhile...
L
Laughed so hard you cried: In Atlanta with KatieRo telling a story.
Last time slept: Not well. Kept waking up.
M
Movies: Anything except horror/scary. NO THANK YOU!
Motion sickness: Nope, can't say I have.
N
Not ready for: Missing my family and friends.
Name: Megan, lol. I have kids' names picked out, is that crazy?
O
One wish: I couldn't narrow it down to one, plus I think that is a cheesy question.
P
Perfect pizza: Depends on my mood. I do love homemade BBQ Chicken.
Pets: Nope
Q
Quote you’re loving: “It's always smarter to go straight than to move in the best of circles"
R
Reality TV: It's like a train wreck, I can't help watching it.
S
Song of the moment: Anything Michael Jackson...RIP
Salad Dressing: Um YES!!!
Strawberries: Not a big fan
T
Thunderstorms: Don't mind them if I'm not alone.
Trust: Don't have much in guys.
U
Unpredictable: Fun, but I like to know what is going on.
V
Vacation spot: Caribbean Islands, anywhere with a secluded beach.
W
Weakness: Thinking I can change/improve people.
Worst feeling: Regrets.
X
X-rays: I have had many.
Y
Yellow: Bright and cheerful.
Z
Zoo animal: Giraffes!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Crown Royal?
Why I am thinking of it...
The other day during unpacking in the morning I heard D say to K "Why you got a liquor bag?". Of course I immediately went over to assess the situation. Sure enough K had a Crown Royal bag to keep her book fair money in. When I asked her why she had it she simply said, "My mama gave it to me as a change purse." Go figure.
I don't know what is more disturbing the fact that D knew what a liquor bag was or that K's mom gave her the bag as a change purse. You tell me.
The other day during unpacking in the morning I heard D say to K "Why you got a liquor bag?". Of course I immediately went over to assess the situation. Sure enough K had a Crown Royal bag to keep her book fair money in. When I asked her why she had it she simply said, "My mama gave it to me as a change purse." Go figure.
I don't know what is more disturbing the fact that D knew what a liquor bag was or that K's mom gave her the bag as a change purse. You tell me.
Procrastination at it's best
I should be packing up my classroom into a million boxes, but this is more fun...
1. Who knows a secret or two about you?
Katie, both of them.
2. Four words to explain why you last threw up?
Can't remember
3. Have you ever burned yourself?
Only small burns attempting to bake/cook
4. Who is your hero?
Soldiers serving our country, my parents, Michael Jordan
5. Would you ever want to be a supermodel?
I think it would be fun to get pampered but I love food too much!
6. When is your next party?
This weekend, so excited for Adrienne's bday party!
7. Do you know what you will wear tomorrow?
Nope, I decide in the mornings.
8. Have you ever accidentally eaten an insect?
I don’t even want to think about the possibilities.
9. Do you talk baby talk?
To babie of course, doesn't everyone?
10. Would you ever work in a retirement home?
I actually thought about volunteering last summer.
11. Are you ever purposely irritating?
Only to a certain lucky few...dad.
12. If you could fly, where would you go first?
Anywhere but here...just kidding, probably Greece or Australia.
13. Do you prefer boats or planes?
Planes.
14. One best friend or 10 acquaintances?
Quality always trumps quantity.
15. Favorite food?
Anything with sugar and butter, does that count?
16. Do you believe that your first love never dies?
I don't think die, but maybe just in vegetable state. I think it's always going to be a memory, but not an active one.
17. What upcoming event are you waiting and ready for?
Bball Reunion!
18. Do you get your nails done?
My toes = always...used to get my fingers, sometimes but not often
19. What was the last thing you ordered at McDonald’s?
I don't like McD's...I can't tell you the last time I went.
20. Are you an emotional person?
Not really...only during a certain time of the month :)
21. When did your last relationship end?
about 2 years ago
22. Favorite place to be?
anywhere with people I love...but the beach is pretty great.
23. How do you feel about your hair?
Um don't really have feelings about it?
24. Do you sleep with a fan on?
Yes, two fans.
25. Did you sleep in past noon today?
negative
26. Are you sarcastic?
Yes sir.
27. Did you have a good birthday this year?
I had a great birthday!! Ask me that after this year's and I'll let you know how it is celebrating it half way across the world.
28. What is your favorite kind of weather?
Sunny, but not too hot.
29. Have you ever cried during a movie?
Um yea. Who hasn't?
30. Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with?
Either Shannon or JT, can't remember the days.
31. Who was the last person you cried in front of?
My parents...it was when I had the hole in my leg.
32. Do you like your name?
Yep, it's nothing special. I love my middle name though, used to hate it but have grown to appreciate it.
1. Who knows a secret or two about you?
Katie, both of them.
2. Four words to explain why you last threw up?
Can't remember
3. Have you ever burned yourself?
Only small burns attempting to bake/cook
4. Who is your hero?
Soldiers serving our country, my parents, Michael Jordan
5. Would you ever want to be a supermodel?
I think it would be fun to get pampered but I love food too much!
6. When is your next party?
This weekend, so excited for Adrienne's bday party!
7. Do you know what you will wear tomorrow?
Nope, I decide in the mornings.
8. Have you ever accidentally eaten an insect?
I don’t even want to think about the possibilities.
9. Do you talk baby talk?
To babie of course, doesn't everyone?
10. Would you ever work in a retirement home?
I actually thought about volunteering last summer.
11. Are you ever purposely irritating?
Only to a certain lucky few...dad.
12. If you could fly, where would you go first?
Anywhere but here...just kidding, probably Greece or Australia.
13. Do you prefer boats or planes?
Planes.
14. One best friend or 10 acquaintances?
Quality always trumps quantity.
15. Favorite food?
Anything with sugar and butter, does that count?
16. Do you believe that your first love never dies?
I don't think die, but maybe just in vegetable state. I think it's always going to be a memory, but not an active one.
17. What upcoming event are you waiting and ready for?
Bball Reunion!
18. Do you get your nails done?
My toes = always...used to get my fingers, sometimes but not often
19. What was the last thing you ordered at McDonald’s?
I don't like McD's...I can't tell you the last time I went.
20. Are you an emotional person?
Not really...only during a certain time of the month :)
21. When did your last relationship end?
about 2 years ago
22. Favorite place to be?
anywhere with people I love...but the beach is pretty great.
23. How do you feel about your hair?
Um don't really have feelings about it?
24. Do you sleep with a fan on?
Yes, two fans.
25. Did you sleep in past noon today?
negative
26. Are you sarcastic?
Yes sir.
27. Did you have a good birthday this year?
I had a great birthday!! Ask me that after this year's and I'll let you know how it is celebrating it half way across the world.
28. What is your favorite kind of weather?
Sunny, but not too hot.
29. Have you ever cried during a movie?
Um yea. Who hasn't?
30. Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with?
Either Shannon or JT, can't remember the days.
31. Who was the last person you cried in front of?
My parents...it was when I had the hole in my leg.
32. Do you like your name?
Yep, it's nothing special. I love my middle name though, used to hate it but have grown to appreciate it.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Hostess with the Mostest and Singleness...
Last weekend I hosted my first official party for someone. Katie bought a house this spring and I was so glad to get the chance to give her a housewarming party. Laney said she wanted to as well, so we paired up and took it on. It was so much fun, although a lot of work. I don't know how mom does it so much. I was exhausted at the end of the day, then had to get in my car and drive 2 hours home. Katie was so grateful for us throwing the party. She seemed happy, which made me happy. I loved doing it for her.
Furman bball at Katie's housewarming...Miv, Laney, Katie, Orion, and me
Lately I have been thinking about my future. I never thought I would be 26 and still not married. I always thought I would be the girl that went to school, met some guy that also played college sports, get married, and live happily ever after. Well obviously that didn't happen...life did. The thing is I love my life. I wouldn't change it for anything. I love being able to go where I want to without having to check in, buying whatever I want to without checking "our" finances, and just having fun with my girls and hanging out with all my guy friends. I know God hasn't brought me someone yet for a reason, so I am just enjoying the singleness. As you can see below...
Me, Kim, and Katie out at Front Page News
Liz met up with us!!
Since my last relationship I have learned a great deal about myself. I'm stronger than I thought I was and I now know how to protect my heart. I am learning not to follow my heart because, The heart is deceitful about all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? (Jer. 17:9) and to follow my conscience, the Spirit. Believe me I still struggle with wanting to just follow my heart and let myself go, but thankfully God has helped me protect my heart.
The other weekend my friend asked me why I don't date. I just told him that I don't feel like I have met anyone that is worth it. I know myself I catch feelings fast and get attached, so I figured the best way to avoid this was to just not date. He asked how long until I will. I honestly couldn't answer that. I know I have a lot of work I need to do on myself to have a healthy and godly relationship and lots of things on my plate. Plus leaving for China in about 2 months doesn't make for the best start to relationships...lol.
Furman bball at Katie's housewarming...Miv, Laney, Katie, Orion, and me
Lately I have been thinking about my future. I never thought I would be 26 and still not married. I always thought I would be the girl that went to school, met some guy that also played college sports, get married, and live happily ever after. Well obviously that didn't happen...life did. The thing is I love my life. I wouldn't change it for anything. I love being able to go where I want to without having to check in, buying whatever I want to without checking "our" finances, and just having fun with my girls and hanging out with all my guy friends. I know God hasn't brought me someone yet for a reason, so I am just enjoying the singleness. As you can see below...
Me, Kim, and Katie out at Front Page News
Liz met up with us!!
Since my last relationship I have learned a great deal about myself. I'm stronger than I thought I was and I now know how to protect my heart. I am learning not to follow my heart because, The heart is deceitful about all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? (Jer. 17:9) and to follow my conscience, the Spirit. Believe me I still struggle with wanting to just follow my heart and let myself go, but thankfully God has helped me protect my heart.
The other weekend my friend asked me why I don't date. I just told him that I don't feel like I have met anyone that is worth it. I know myself I catch feelings fast and get attached, so I figured the best way to avoid this was to just not date. He asked how long until I will. I honestly couldn't answer that. I know I have a lot of work I need to do on myself to have a healthy and godly relationship and lots of things on my plate. Plus leaving for China in about 2 months doesn't make for the best start to relationships...lol.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Random thoughts...
I can't believe it is less than 3 months before I leave for China. I have so many emotions and feelings, ones I can only expect to increase as my departure gets closer. I spent this weekend in Atlanta for a friend's graduation from Emory. I had a blast and we spent the whole weekend laughing. I couldn't help but think about how much I will miss all my friends and family when I am gone. Saying it out loud sounds dumb and egocentric, but it's weird that everyone's lives are going to continue going on without me here to experience them.
I am pretty good at keeping in touch with people. When I left Hofstra I talked with my good friends weekly, if not daily. I was in Alex's wedding and got to hold Joy's baby when she was born. I am probably closer now with the people I went to Furman with than I was when we were in school. I know I will stay connected, but it won't be with the consistency that I am used to. I am used to random texts, long conversations on my drive to and from work, getting dinner and drinks with friends, or driving to Atlanta to hang out, just stopping by a friend's when I am in the neighborhood. I won't be able to do that in China. For all the times I will miss seeing my friends faces, I know that I will keep in touch and it will show me who are my true friends. Nowadays it is so much easier to stay in touch, I mean even my dad is on facebook!! (Just kidding dad)
I am also so excited I can hardly wait. I can't wait to set up my apartment and a new classroom, meet new people, travel all over Asia, new experiences, the culture and much more. The one thing I am not excited about...packing! Anyone that knows me knows that I always overpack!
Right now I am just focusing on closing out this year the best I can. We took our annual field trip to Columbia at the end of April. I will not miss planning that trip! We have our first day of standardized state tests tomorrow. It is always hard for me, I am constantly wondering if I did a good enough job. It's hard to believe this year is coming to an end, it seems to have flown by.
My class in a photo op for a respresentative
I have also been busy every weekend for awhile. The other weekend I went to Melissa's (TFer) wedding in Charleston. My friend, Jason, was nice enough to come with me. The wedding was beautiful and Melissa was glowing.
The beautiful bride and me
Jason and me
This past weekend I went to Atlanta for Paul's graduation. It was a fun weekend with "the crew". Larral, Rodney, JT, and Ant all made it into town to help celebrate. It's always fun when everyone is together, you never know what is going to happen. I am going back this weekend because Laney and I are hosting a housewarming party for Katie. I'll post pictures of Atlanta later. :)
I am pretty good at keeping in touch with people. When I left Hofstra I talked with my good friends weekly, if not daily. I was in Alex's wedding and got to hold Joy's baby when she was born. I am probably closer now with the people I went to Furman with than I was when we were in school. I know I will stay connected, but it won't be with the consistency that I am used to. I am used to random texts, long conversations on my drive to and from work, getting dinner and drinks with friends, or driving to Atlanta to hang out, just stopping by a friend's when I am in the neighborhood. I won't be able to do that in China. For all the times I will miss seeing my friends faces, I know that I will keep in touch and it will show me who are my true friends. Nowadays it is so much easier to stay in touch, I mean even my dad is on facebook!! (Just kidding dad)
I am also so excited I can hardly wait. I can't wait to set up my apartment and a new classroom, meet new people, travel all over Asia, new experiences, the culture and much more. The one thing I am not excited about...packing! Anyone that knows me knows that I always overpack!
Right now I am just focusing on closing out this year the best I can. We took our annual field trip to Columbia at the end of April. I will not miss planning that trip! We have our first day of standardized state tests tomorrow. It is always hard for me, I am constantly wondering if I did a good enough job. It's hard to believe this year is coming to an end, it seems to have flown by.
My class in a photo op for a respresentative
I have also been busy every weekend for awhile. The other weekend I went to Melissa's (TFer) wedding in Charleston. My friend, Jason, was nice enough to come with me. The wedding was beautiful and Melissa was glowing.
The beautiful bride and me
Jason and me
This past weekend I went to Atlanta for Paul's graduation. It was a fun weekend with "the crew". Larral, Rodney, JT, and Ant all made it into town to help celebrate. It's always fun when everyone is together, you never know what is going to happen. I am going back this weekend because Laney and I are hosting a housewarming party for Katie. I'll post pictures of Atlanta later. :)
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Praying for Neecy
Pray for my sweet niece Ainsley that is in ICU. God has already worked miracles, but pray He continues to hold her in the palm of His hand. Also, pray Julie, Monte, and Beckham to have peace and comfort.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
In the moment
God has really brought to my attention some things. I am constantly finding myself in a state of "what ifs/I can't wait until." I was running yesterday thinking about how I can't wait to go to China, or to find a man that loves me, or to have a family when God hit me on the head with the old why can't you be contempt with where you have me now. I think this came from the sermon on Sunday at Crosspoint. It was about how God has a mission for our lives and it is planned. He has me where I am in my life right now for a reason. I need to be looking for opportunities to serve and show His love now, not wait until later. I can't want something that hasn't happened yet, God hasn't given me what I want for a reason that He knows. I need to enjoy the time NOW. It's funny because so many times when I was anxious for the next phase in my life once I get there I find myself looking back and wishing I could relive the past phase. I think if I keep hoping and wishing for the next phase I will miss the stage I'm in right now. And let's be real it couldn't get much better than it is now. I have awesome roomies, a great job I love, amazing friends, and live in the most beautiful place ever. I need to be living in the moment, not in the past or the future. Just some thoughts...
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Happy Birthday Katie!!!
Today is Katie's birthday!! Happy birthday Katie, you're getting old! Just kidding, I'm right behind you. I'm so glad to be your little (but taller) sister. Even though we used to fight like crazy when we were little, we are so close now. Thank you for always being there for me, making me laugh, listening to my craziness, and challenging me to become a better person. I am so thankful God gave me you as a sister. You're not just my sister but a best friend as well! I love you and hope you are having the best birthday ever. I am sad you are in Iraq, but I think it is great you are serving so many that serve us with their bravery. It was good to hear your voice today! Love you and miss you!! xoxo Oh yea...For your next birthday you will just have to come visit me in China! By the way it was harder to find pics of us then I thought it would be considering we take so many. I hope they are up to your standards :) Love you!
Hahahahahaha
Hahahahahaha
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
RIP Keowee
About two weeks ago Aunt Susan and Lamar found a rhinoceros beetle outside. Aunt Susan being the animal lover she is saved him and thought of my class. She called and asked if I would want it as a class pet. My first thoughts were no way, yuck, disgusting. The teacher in me then came out and I thought what a great opportunity to study its adaptations since we were just finishing our unit on animal adaptations. Dad went and got the beetle from Aunt Susan and I was now the proud owner of a pet beetle.
When I introduced it to my class they had the same reaction as I did, grossed out! Then after warming up to it a little they LOVED it. They were calling him pet names and even named him Keowee because they knew he was found over near my parents' house. The kids held him and we researched about rhinoceros beetles. Who knew they were a common pet for people to have. He really was beautiful. His shell looked like it was hand painted.
Sadly, he died after only about a week and a half. I don't know why he didn't survive. He was the most spoiled beetle ever. One little girl brought in organic mangoes, apples, and grapes. I don't even eat organic food and this little guy was chowing! The kids would hold him and let him "tickle" them on their hands. One day he was not responsive, I thought he was just sleeping, but he didn't move when we touched him. After another day of comatose we decided he had gone to beetle heaven.
I decided we should have a funeral for him. I brought in a box and we wrote RIP Keowee on it. Yesterday we had his funeral. It was hilarious. The kids were so serious about it. We had a long procession line. I dug a hole and we placed him in it. One little boy said we should have a moment of silence to remember his life. We all bowed our heads and stood on the top of a hill by our school silently. I looked up and all 22 of my students had their heads bowed and hands crossed. When I ended the tribute to Keowee one little boy asked if he could say a few words. I said sure. He went on to shout, "Oh Lord!!! Why did you have to take him? He was so young, only 1 1/2 weeks!!! I hope you enjoy heaven Keowee! I'll see you when I get there!" It was the funniest thing I have seen in awhile. That was followed by a little girl placing flowers on his grave.
Needless to say my days at work are NEVER boring. RIP Keowee, we will miss you!
When I introduced it to my class they had the same reaction as I did, grossed out! Then after warming up to it a little they LOVED it. They were calling him pet names and even named him Keowee because they knew he was found over near my parents' house. The kids held him and we researched about rhinoceros beetles. Who knew they were a common pet for people to have. He really was beautiful. His shell looked like it was hand painted.
Sadly, he died after only about a week and a half. I don't know why he didn't survive. He was the most spoiled beetle ever. One little girl brought in organic mangoes, apples, and grapes. I don't even eat organic food and this little guy was chowing! The kids would hold him and let him "tickle" them on their hands. One day he was not responsive, I thought he was just sleeping, but he didn't move when we touched him. After another day of comatose we decided he had gone to beetle heaven.
I decided we should have a funeral for him. I brought in a box and we wrote RIP Keowee on it. Yesterday we had his funeral. It was hilarious. The kids were so serious about it. We had a long procession line. I dug a hole and we placed him in it. One little boy said we should have a moment of silence to remember his life. We all bowed our heads and stood on the top of a hill by our school silently. I looked up and all 22 of my students had their heads bowed and hands crossed. When I ended the tribute to Keowee one little boy asked if he could say a few words. I said sure. He went on to shout, "Oh Lord!!! Why did you have to take him? He was so young, only 1 1/2 weeks!!! I hope you enjoy heaven Keowee! I'll see you when I get there!" It was the funniest thing I have seen in awhile. That was followed by a little girl placing flowers on his grave.
Needless to say my days at work are NEVER boring. RIP Keowee, we will miss you!
Monday, March 2, 2009
Funtimes in February
I promise I am going to get better at updating my blog. For the past couple months I have been really busy with teaching and coaching. Besides, let's be honest I don't think the 5 people who are reading it care. I want to do a better job for myself so I know what I was doing and thinking when I look back at it. It's crazy to go back and read my first entries because it seems like so long ago. Anyways a lot has gone down since I wrote.
My middle school team won the Greenville country basketball tournament. It was an exciting and amazing game. We won on a last second shot. Honestly the girls didn't play very well, but they didn't give up and they kept playing hard. I was so proud of them. Directly from the game I drove down to Atlanta. It was my best friend from Furman,Katie's, birthday. We were all going out to do Karaoke to celebrate. We had a blast. I am so thankful for my teammates at Furman. We always have so much fun together and I know they always have my back. My sister, Katie, was arriving in the A for our cousin Julie's wedding. Our other two cousins, Mark and John, picked her up and brought her by the Karaoke place. It was so fun to see them. It seems so weird that we are all old enough to get into a bar. I still remember playing Ricky-Ticky-Stare together at the beach when we were all little. After a great night singing "I Want You Back" by Jackson 5 and "Baby Got Back" (Katie Ro's fav) with my girls we went back to Katie's.
FU Ballas
The birthday girl and me
The cousins all grown up
The next morning was an early one as us Scott girls (and Katie Ro) couldn't pass up a trip to Chic-Fil-A with my parents, Aunts, and Uncles. It was a fun time and good food. We headed to Target to buy luggage for the next leg of my journey and then went back to Katie's to change for the wedding. In Target Katie and I were being kids and juggling a ball between the two of us. I don't know where the video recording of it is, but I'll post it if I get it.
All the Scotts met up by Julie and the Campbell's hotel to have but what other than...MORE FOOD! We talked and talked and finished getting ready for the wedding. From there it was onto the wedding.
We got there and saw J. Kirk, one of my cousins I haven't seen since my Big Pop's funeral almost 7 years ago. It was good chatting with him before the ceremony. The wedding was wonderful. The church was filled to the max, a testimony to how many people love and care for Julie and Jodi. After the ceremony we headed to the reception. It was so great to be with family and relax. Julie looked gorgeous in her gown and was simply glowing the whole day.
At the reception
Beckham and Poppy
From there it was more time with family at the house of one of the Swanson's friends. Their house is 5 houses up the street from Katie Ro's...small world! We ate more and laughed. When that was over Katie and I walked back to Katie Ro's house. I had an early flight to Philadelphia to catch in the morning.
I went to Philadelphia to go to the International School Services recruitment conference. I had asked permission from my principal to go, since I would be missing a week of school. I arrived in Philly Sunday morning and was picked up by Joy (my best friend from my days at Hofstra). I spent the day with her and her family. She has the cutest little girl, Ebelle, that is full of energy. It is so crazy to think that Joy and I met almost ten years ago and now she is married with a baby girl!
Ebelle and me
Monday is when the conference started. I stayed at the hotel because I thought it would be better for networking and less stressful. To offset the cost of the hotel room I got a random roommate that was on a rooming list. It could not have worked out better! She is a great girl that teaches at Langley (only 15 minutes from where I grew up). We had so much in common and really had a great time the whole week. We went to dinner the first night after orientation to a quaint resturant that was celebrating Presidents' Day by having a menu from the 1700's. My food was actually really good and we had a great talk. The next day was full of interviews.
To make the short for the sake of not boring y'all to death...I interviewed with a bunch of schools. I had been contacted by a school in Dalian, China before the conference. I had an interview with Dalian first thing after sign-ups. I met the Head of the School, Brian, and felt at ease at once. The interview was intense, but I felt good the whole time. It was reaffirming for me to be able to share my philosophy on education and passion for children. Brian asked if I would come back for another interview later in the day. I had interviews at other schools and then went to my "call back". I walked in to his room (it is very strange how they hold the interviews, they are in the recruiters hotel rooms) and there was another woman in there. They offered me the job and went through the package and benefits with me. I had until the next day to tell them. I was super excited, but really wanted to pray about it and think it through. I never thought I would be in China! I went to the other interviews I had scheduled and was offered another job in Bangkok, Thailand. I had until the next day to tell her as well. That night there was cocktail hour for recruiters and recruits. My roommate and I went down and were talking to some people. She also got a job offer from a school in China! We were sitting at a table when we saw both of our Heads of School talking to each other. We went over and started talking with them and had so much fun. She knew she was going to take the job, but just wanted a night to sleep on it. I knew deep down I wanted Dalian, but didn't want to rush into it.
I prayed and talked to my family and decided I was going to China! I called Brain the next morning and told him yes. He was super excited. I went down to his room to make it official and then came back to mine to relax. The process was over, or maybe just beginning. My roommate, Elizabeth, and I decided to go walk around Philly. Of course the weather was terrible, freezing and raining, but we still went. We ended up going to Chinatown for lunch! It was so much fun. All I kept thinking was, I can't believe I'm going to China! That night my school and Elizabeth's school took all the candidates they hired out to dinner at this awesome Vietnamese restaurant. We had great food and great conversation. It was so eye opening to me. I never knew there was this huge world of international teaching out there. After dinner the other girls and I decided to go to a Karaoke bar that was right next door. We figured it would be fun and also let us get to know everyone better. We had a blast and it was good to form those connections.
Elizabeth and me in Chinatown
Dinner at Vietnam in Philly with the whole gang
Karaoke for the second time in a week
So that is it. I am going to China to teach at the Dalian American International School to teach 5th grade. I will be there for 2 years. They fly me home at the end of each school year, so I will be back in the states every summer. I am so excited, but I don't think it has fully hit me. There are times where I am thinking to myself.."This time next year I will be in China" or "I'm going to miss doing _______ when I am in China". But then I think, wow what an incredible opportunity to be blessed with. I would regret it if I didn't do it and I know I will grow so much, both personally and professionally. I will try to keep updating this with the departure date of August 3rd approaching faster than I know.
Sorry that was so long, but I wanted to have it all down for memories.
My middle school team won the Greenville country basketball tournament. It was an exciting and amazing game. We won on a last second shot. Honestly the girls didn't play very well, but they didn't give up and they kept playing hard. I was so proud of them. Directly from the game I drove down to Atlanta. It was my best friend from Furman,Katie's, birthday. We were all going out to do Karaoke to celebrate. We had a blast. I am so thankful for my teammates at Furman. We always have so much fun together and I know they always have my back. My sister, Katie, was arriving in the A for our cousin Julie's wedding. Our other two cousins, Mark and John, picked her up and brought her by the Karaoke place. It was so fun to see them. It seems so weird that we are all old enough to get into a bar. I still remember playing Ricky-Ticky-Stare together at the beach when we were all little. After a great night singing "I Want You Back" by Jackson 5 and "Baby Got Back" (Katie Ro's fav) with my girls we went back to Katie's.
FU Ballas
The birthday girl and me
The cousins all grown up
The next morning was an early one as us Scott girls (and Katie Ro) couldn't pass up a trip to Chic-Fil-A with my parents, Aunts, and Uncles. It was a fun time and good food. We headed to Target to buy luggage for the next leg of my journey and then went back to Katie's to change for the wedding. In Target Katie and I were being kids and juggling a ball between the two of us. I don't know where the video recording of it is, but I'll post it if I get it.
All the Scotts met up by Julie and the Campbell's hotel to have but what other than...MORE FOOD! We talked and talked and finished getting ready for the wedding. From there it was onto the wedding.
We got there and saw J. Kirk, one of my cousins I haven't seen since my Big Pop's funeral almost 7 years ago. It was good chatting with him before the ceremony. The wedding was wonderful. The church was filled to the max, a testimony to how many people love and care for Julie and Jodi. After the ceremony we headed to the reception. It was so great to be with family and relax. Julie looked gorgeous in her gown and was simply glowing the whole day.
At the reception
Beckham and Poppy
From there it was more time with family at the house of one of the Swanson's friends. Their house is 5 houses up the street from Katie Ro's...small world! We ate more and laughed. When that was over Katie and I walked back to Katie Ro's house. I had an early flight to Philadelphia to catch in the morning.
I went to Philadelphia to go to the International School Services recruitment conference. I had asked permission from my principal to go, since I would be missing a week of school. I arrived in Philly Sunday morning and was picked up by Joy (my best friend from my days at Hofstra). I spent the day with her and her family. She has the cutest little girl, Ebelle, that is full of energy. It is so crazy to think that Joy and I met almost ten years ago and now she is married with a baby girl!
Ebelle and me
Monday is when the conference started. I stayed at the hotel because I thought it would be better for networking and less stressful. To offset the cost of the hotel room I got a random roommate that was on a rooming list. It could not have worked out better! She is a great girl that teaches at Langley (only 15 minutes from where I grew up). We had so much in common and really had a great time the whole week. We went to dinner the first night after orientation to a quaint resturant that was celebrating Presidents' Day by having a menu from the 1700's. My food was actually really good and we had a great talk. The next day was full of interviews.
To make the short for the sake of not boring y'all to death...I interviewed with a bunch of schools. I had been contacted by a school in Dalian, China before the conference. I had an interview with Dalian first thing after sign-ups. I met the Head of the School, Brian, and felt at ease at once. The interview was intense, but I felt good the whole time. It was reaffirming for me to be able to share my philosophy on education and passion for children. Brian asked if I would come back for another interview later in the day. I had interviews at other schools and then went to my "call back". I walked in to his room (it is very strange how they hold the interviews, they are in the recruiters hotel rooms) and there was another woman in there. They offered me the job and went through the package and benefits with me. I had until the next day to tell them. I was super excited, but really wanted to pray about it and think it through. I never thought I would be in China! I went to the other interviews I had scheduled and was offered another job in Bangkok, Thailand. I had until the next day to tell her as well. That night there was cocktail hour for recruiters and recruits. My roommate and I went down and were talking to some people. She also got a job offer from a school in China! We were sitting at a table when we saw both of our Heads of School talking to each other. We went over and started talking with them and had so much fun. She knew she was going to take the job, but just wanted a night to sleep on it. I knew deep down I wanted Dalian, but didn't want to rush into it.
I prayed and talked to my family and decided I was going to China! I called Brain the next morning and told him yes. He was super excited. I went down to his room to make it official and then came back to mine to relax. The process was over, or maybe just beginning. My roommate, Elizabeth, and I decided to go walk around Philly. Of course the weather was terrible, freezing and raining, but we still went. We ended up going to Chinatown for lunch! It was so much fun. All I kept thinking was, I can't believe I'm going to China! That night my school and Elizabeth's school took all the candidates they hired out to dinner at this awesome Vietnamese restaurant. We had great food and great conversation. It was so eye opening to me. I never knew there was this huge world of international teaching out there. After dinner the other girls and I decided to go to a Karaoke bar that was right next door. We figured it would be fun and also let us get to know everyone better. We had a blast and it was good to form those connections.
Elizabeth and me in Chinatown
Dinner at Vietnam in Philly with the whole gang
Karaoke for the second time in a week
So that is it. I am going to China to teach at the Dalian American International School to teach 5th grade. I will be there for 2 years. They fly me home at the end of each school year, so I will be back in the states every summer. I am so excited, but I don't think it has fully hit me. There are times where I am thinking to myself.."This time next year I will be in China" or "I'm going to miss doing _______ when I am in China". But then I think, wow what an incredible opportunity to be blessed with. I would regret it if I didn't do it and I know I will grow so much, both personally and professionally. I will try to keep updating this with the departure date of August 3rd approaching faster than I know.
Sorry that was so long, but I wanted to have it all down for memories.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you...without a dope beat to step to
I'm back ladies and gentlemen.(all 5 of you...mostly my family) I just realized I hadn't written on here in almost 2 months. Well, a lot has gone down. Let me catch you up...
~Enjoyed Thanksgiving and along winter break with my family in South Carolina. Went to ATL for New Year's and had a great time with my old FU girls. Unfortunately I accidentally deleted all my pics from NYE. :(
~Went to the John Legend concert...amazing. Highly recommend you go if you get the change.
~I'm still coaching middle school ball and having a blast. The girls are great and really work hard. It's so fun to get to play again at practice (I have to learn to not go hard and be less competitive). As of now we are 11-0. They are sweet girls and very coachable. Funny I thought it would help me not miss bball, but it makes me want to play MORE. I wish there was a league I could play in around here.
~As far as my future a lot is happening/or could be. I decided to finally go for my dream of teaching internationally. I have always wanted to experience different cultures. I didn't do it last year because I wanted to have a little more experience. I decided this year that I was going to do it. I sent in all my info, resume, etc to the recruitment company and now have a profile. I have sent a bunch of stuff out to some schools and am attending a Recruitment Conference in Philly in February. I am really excited. Please pray that I go where God wants me, and not just where I want to go. I have heard a lot from a school in Brazil. Actually the Headmaster is coming up next week to watch me teach. Craziness! I will keep y'all updated on everything.
~My class is adorable. Please just pray for them and some of their lives at home. Parents make me so mad sometimes, I wish they knew how much of an impact they had on the rest of their children's lives.
Other than that my life is boring. I have been reading a lot. I got hooked into the Twilight series of books. It is a teeny bopper series, but I love it. I have read the first two books and am going to get the third asap.
~Enjoyed Thanksgiving and along winter break with my family in South Carolina. Went to ATL for New Year's and had a great time with my old FU girls. Unfortunately I accidentally deleted all my pics from NYE. :(
~Went to the John Legend concert...amazing. Highly recommend you go if you get the change.
~I'm still coaching middle school ball and having a blast. The girls are great and really work hard. It's so fun to get to play again at practice (I have to learn to not go hard and be less competitive). As of now we are 11-0. They are sweet girls and very coachable. Funny I thought it would help me not miss bball, but it makes me want to play MORE. I wish there was a league I could play in around here.
~As far as my future a lot is happening/or could be. I decided to finally go for my dream of teaching internationally. I have always wanted to experience different cultures. I didn't do it last year because I wanted to have a little more experience. I decided this year that I was going to do it. I sent in all my info, resume, etc to the recruitment company and now have a profile. I have sent a bunch of stuff out to some schools and am attending a Recruitment Conference in Philly in February. I am really excited. Please pray that I go where God wants me, and not just where I want to go. I have heard a lot from a school in Brazil. Actually the Headmaster is coming up next week to watch me teach. Craziness! I will keep y'all updated on everything.
~My class is adorable. Please just pray for them and some of their lives at home. Parents make me so mad sometimes, I wish they knew how much of an impact they had on the rest of their children's lives.
Other than that my life is boring. I have been reading a lot. I got hooked into the Twilight series of books. It is a teeny bopper series, but I love it. I have read the first two books and am going to get the third asap.
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