I taught second grade for eight years before I moved into my role as science coordinator. This class is graduating. CONGRATULATIONS! Love working at a K-12 school!

I wanted to let my blog community know that my mom celebrated her 90th birthday on January 30th. I am so blessed that God chose her to be my mother! I made a video to celebrate with my family over Zoom, and I thought I would post a few of the photos of my beautiful mother here. She was also a teacher. Thank you for letting me share my heart with you.

I fell backwards onto the sidewalk as I greeted children during carpool. The result was a fractured wrist.

As I’ve attempted to rest and ice my wrist, I’ve reflected on the lessons this new challenge offers, a practice I’ve tried to do when life unexpectedly takes a turn. No matter what happens, I’ve learned that there are always blessings to be found. Although this is very minor and really just a nuisance, I am practicing for when more serious life events occur because they will. Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts with you.

I feel grateful that this fall was not more serious. I could have easily hit my head on the sidewalk. I quickly realized the need for two hands. I wonder if I have ever thanked God for my hands and feet. Thankful too that the holidays are approaching and I will have time to rest at home. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18,

I immediately felt more empathy for my mom who has gnarled arthritic hands which make even the simplest tasks difficult. She fell last year and her broken ankle required five pins and a steel plate to repair. She was alone in the hospital for days. She almost never complained, but I can only imagine the pain and the feeling of helplessness she experienced.

One of the upsides during these Covid days has been the innovation I have witnessed. Hasn’t it been astonishing to watch the creative ways people have solved problems? Challenges create opportunities for change, discoveries, and inventions. I have had to become a problem solver. How do you open an envelope with one hand?

I have also tried to simplify which isn’t easy given the holidays are approaching. My daughter and her new husband are driving here from Chicago to spend Christmas with us. They haven’t been here since last December, and I wanted everything to be perfect! I know that isn’t why they are coming, but isn’t it hard to let go of that desire?

So that brings me to the reminder that it is alright to ask for assistance. There will be more hands here now that will be ready to help me cook, wrap, and address cards, as well as complete all the household tasks.

Labs will be simpler this week, but I have some fun and easy ideas that will keep my young scientists learning. There will be time for the explosive labs when we return in January, and I work with a supportive staff who is already asking about the ways they can assist me.

So, as I sat icing my hand, I watched the array of birds at my suet feeder. Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10.

I rarely share personal news on my blog, but I am making an exception for this special occasion! My daughter and her fiancé are getting married on Friday – just the two of them at the courthouse in Chicago. When we began this journey over a year ago, we never envisioned the day looking like this, but it is the best choice for now, and we are focused on the joy! Thank you for indulging this mama!

I thought I would update this and add a photo that was taken after their courthouse wedding. It was rainy and cold, but nothing could dampen their happiness.

Mrs. Borain, our librarian, made these fun masks for me!

I have always been a fan of Winnie the Pooh and friends. So much humor and wisdom can be found in their stories. I’ll miss everyone during lockdown!