About a month and a half ago I quit my job ( and that's a whole other long story). I was out of work for 3 1/2 weeks.

I went from office secretary sticking stamps and writing reports to teaching two years enrolled in Mothers Day out and part time sales at anthropologie.

And while I'm now a lot busier and not making as much money, I could absolutely not be happier.

I started out subbing for the ones, then twos, then four year olds, then back to the ones, but now I'm a permanent teacher of the twos. The kids are finally adjusting and learning their routine. They know the words to some of the songs or at least can mumble the melody.

I dont know if there's anything more rewarding than seeing a two year old learn to fold his hands and bow his head.

Jazz

"Jesus had this amazing idea that if you mix class lines, they tend to dissolve. That if we fall in love with someone’s heart, they are no longer homeless in our eyes, but become family. It’s a beautiful transition that happens when we take the time to extend ourselves to those whom we are “most afraid” of . If you were to take a group of kids from the ghetto camping in the woods, they would be terrified of every sound, praying not to get eaten by a bear. If we were to take a group of suburban kids to the ghetto, the same would happen (replacing the bear with a gunshot). We are all so afraid of what we don’t know, and sadly, we are usually more afraid of our preconceived ideas of that fear than we are of the “fear” itself. "

Dear New Friend,

I don't know you.
Yes, we met a while ago,
but you see, new friend,
I know nothing of your past,
like were you ever kicked out of UIL spelling in the 4th grade, because you couldn't spell breakfast?
Or maybe you were unexpectedly kissed in front of a huge crowd of people during your 11th grade musical?
I dont know,
but I need to,
because who you were then made you who you are today.

Recap

Since last time I have:

...been the recipient of an italian metro ticket
...discovered the best way to enjoy a cappucino
...had an anniversary
...experienced the worst airline flight ever
...gotten a new job
...called 911
...found a new love
...renewed an old passion
...re-started school
...relaxed on a beach by myself
...recorded some new music
...met my monthly book quota
...not met my monthly book quota
...placed 5th in a triathlon
...failed a series 65 test
...leased a new apartment

Bring it 2nd half 2009

Separation Anxiety

Here's a brief overview of Monday:

After spending a weekend in Naples and Pompeii, Melissa and I traveled to Salerno to do some research. We had no idea what was in store for the day. After the little motorbike incident we decided to catch the next train to Naples and then leave that same night for Rome. In a brief summary we were fined by some metro police, almost missed our train to Rome and were up for almost 24 hours. It was by far the most hectic day so far; but looking back I'm proud of how we handled it.

I'm beginning to cherish the dull moments, and I'm having to learn to cherish my time here. I'm homesick and yesterday was rough; and there will be more days like that ahead.

My time here reminds me a lot of when I first moved into my apartment. I was lonely a lot of the time, but that time passed and I really began to become my home. And that gives me hope for my stay here.

My prayer is to see the big picture. I don't know why the heck I was called here, but I was, and that wasn't by mistake. And before long that question will be answered.

It's ok to cry, and sometimes thats just what you need.

thanks for all the prayers.

"Rejoice in the Lord Always, and again I say Rejoice"

I love italian. While I still know very little, getting to use the smallest bits is great. I've bought a metro ticket, saline solution, and given two people directions in broken fragments, but I'm all about celebrating victory in the small things. Thats a great lesson I took away from Paris, rejoice in the smallest accomplishments.



I've celebrated turning on the stove, unlocking our door, successful trips to the store and post office, and falling asleep despite the constant traffic noises.

I feel like its been months since I've last posted an update, but it really has only been a few weeks. The mass of emotion and traveling are probably to blame.

I'm settled into my apartment, unpacked and enjoying the beauty of Rome. I've made some new friends and already had to say goodbye to them, but the ones I need are right here. I'll be here, in contact for the next two weeks; learning the metro and what the heck to buy at the grocery store. I was hesitate about what to expect, but I'm learning to trust.

There's so many stories I have already, but really, no room to write them. Email me, I can always call on skype...which I just rediscovered...

Right now I'm reading through the book of Acts, and once I finish that I will move straight to Romans, fitting ain't it ;)

A study of the early church is what every southern baptist needs.

a tarde,