32 weeks

My 27th birthday. (The "2" candle fell off the cake right as we took the picture...just to clarify...I am not seven.) Look at the beautiful cake Daniel ordered me! I had a great birthday and am so thankful to have such wonderful family and friends.
My obsession...coke icees. There is a picture just like this of my mom when she was pregnant with me, so I am sure Jackson will love coke icees too. :)

32 weeks pregnant...8 weeks to go...

I cannot believe that I am 32 weeks pregnant! It is so exciting to think that Jackson will be here in eight weeks (or less)! For the record: I do realize that "or more" is an option, but for my own sanity and comfort I choose to ignore that possibility.

I go back to school this Wednesday and students return on Monday, August 10th. Please pray for me and my students on the first day of school. My prayer is that God brings me the students that need me and that I am able to impact their lives in a positive way. Our system's current financial situation will present many challenges this year including reduced funding and increased class size. Although my pregnancy has been wonderful, as I near the home stretch I am becoming increasingly uncomfortable with aches, pains and heartburn. I pray that I am able to work until Jackson arrives (or until Friday, September 26th which will be my last day before I begin my maternity leave...which ever comes first). The beginning of the school year is always very busy, very exciting and VERY exhausting and I've never done it while eight months pregnant with as many as thirty first graders.

Sweet Jesus,

Thank you for allowing me to do a job that I love. Fill me with love, patience, and kindness as I begin this new school year. Give me energy and a positive attitude that will be contagious to my students. I know that there will me children in my class who come from very difficult situations, I pray that when they enter my classroom each day they know that they are safe and that they are loved. Help me to see these children through your eyes and not be overwhelmed by the numbers or work load...remind me of what's important. Be with me and fill me with your spirit, I will praise you for it. I am overwhelmed by your love and mercy.