Summer's End

"Who among the gods is like you, O'Lord? Who is like you - majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders." Exodus 15:11

A lot of folks on blogspots and Facebook have been talking about summers end and all the fond memories of this summer. I decided to jump on the bandwagon.

The verse above is one that spoke to me during my week in the Colorado mountains (one morning as I was having my quiet time out on the porch of my cabin). I felt so grateful and blessed for the summer I was having.

The summer began with teaching Summer School which is quite taxing and tiring for me. Working 9+ hours with only one 20 minute break in the day can wear one down. This coupled with teaching only ONE subject the whole day long is also difficult. But my Father God is kind and thoughtful and merciful. He gave me only 2 students and Mr. McCarthy (principal) allowed me to teach the class anyway since he knew I was a single parent and the extra income is needed. This greatly lightened the load. Both students were *TOP NOTCH* and over-achievers which for a teacher is a huge blessing! Bobby Forrest also blessed me by giving me spa days twice during the month. I can't begin to tell you what this meant to me!! As a single parent, I never ever splurge on anything like this (I get my hair cut at Frank Phillips College due to the price). I felt like a QUEEN! I thank my Heavenly Father for the month of June.

Then in July, I worked another week administering the summer TAKS. This was difficult because I was battling a *severe* upper respiratory infection at the time. It really "ate my lunch". I was so sick. I thank God that the week was only for 1/2 days and that the other teachers helping (Mrs Wilson and Mrs McCarthy) were such great ladies to do this with. They kept me laughing and entertained so that the morning passed quickly and enjoyably.

I then went for a FABULOUS week to Colorado with Bobby and his girls. He treated me so great and refused that I pay for anything even though I kept offering. It was such a time of refuge, relaxation, and rejuvenation for me. We golfed, fished (I caught 4 fish!), rafted, hiked,shopped, and played miniature golf. Greatest vacation *EVER*!! I got to know his family better (his 2 girls and his brother's family) and the week went fantastically.

The last week of July was full of shopping garage sales & Salvation Army with Anna (in between her summer classes at FPC) for her wedding. I love having her home with me during the summers. She is such a wonderful companion, helper, and best friend. I will miss her terribly next summer as she will be married! Wow huh?

August, so far, has been busy with getting ready for school. I love, love, love this time of year. The "newness", the "excitement", the "anticipation" of school starting. I love working in my room and planning my year with my wonderful students. I love my profession and the gifts I am able to use to minister with my students.

So it's been a fun and productive summer. Now, I await the arrival of my precious son, Ben in two weeks. Another GREAT JOY!!

Thank you God.