Thursday, May 24, 2012

The Times They Are A-Changin'

Something very strange and surreal happened today. I walked out of my classroom, locked the door, and proceeded to exit the building like I have every school day for the last 6 years at BHS. I realized as I was exiting, though, that I will not go back to my classroom on the first day of school in August. In fact, it's now officially someone else's classroom. I don't have a classroom at all. It just feels weird.

Next year, BHS is beginning the transition to the International Baccalaureate program, and I will be coordinating our school's efforts in doing so. I am very excited about this opportunity and I look forward to the new experience, but part of me is a little sad. I have been teaching for 13 years and I have loved my career. Sure, there have been some rough spots, but I've definitely had more highs than lows. I can still remember what I wore my first day of school as a teacher at TCHS and how nervous and incredibly naive I was. Seven years later, I was a little more experienced but just as nervous when I made the move to BHS.

So, normally on the last day of school, I'm taking a deep breath and thankful that I've got a few weeks to recoup before I stand in front of my next group of students. But today is a little different. I am taking a deep breath and reminding myself that the only constant is change.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

13 Years, 3 Kids, and Millions of Smiles

I am one blessed girl. My life is beautiful-- God has given me much more than I deserve and I am humbled by His grace. I would like to take the time today to thank Him especially for the gift of Jeff.


Jeff and I met 16 years ago and have been together ever since. We had a rough start to our relationship because we lived in different states. I think we broke up about 10 times during that first year, but we just couldn't stay apart. We had a lot of growing up to do (and we still do, truth be known), but we decided we were going to make it work, no matter what. And here we are: married 13 years as of today, with 3 of the most beautiful children God ever created, and we're still smiling and still making it work-- no matter what.

I am so thankful that God gave me Jeff. It has been one of the greatest joys of my life to watch him grow as a husband, as a father, and as a man of God. He is truly the best person I know and I love him more today than I ever have. I am so proud to be Mrs. Jeffrey Hall and I am smiling at the thought of  the many, many years to come. Again, I am one blessed girl.