As I sit here alone in bed on Christmas Eve, I cannot help but reflect on the past year. So many health problems had happened for me in recent years, and I can remember my mother telling me last year "Baby, 2010 is YOUR year". I had some major doubts, but I held on to a shred of optimism. Looking back at the past year, I can honestly say that she was right, I have really had an amazing year.
I started student teaching in the beginning of the year, and many people had told me how difficult it was, warning me that some people fail and/or drop out of the program realizing it is actually NOT what they want. However, I had an awesome 2 placements, and in no time I was walking across that stage proudly with my little girl waiting for me at the other end. That moment literally still brings tears to my eyes.
I immediately began subbing in a few districts, and I had assumed I would be subbing for a year at LEAST while the job hunt continued. It really seemed hopeless. I even started to think about moving our whole family over seas to pursue my teaching career, as I knew the student loans would be piling up soon. However, mid-July my dreams came true and I was hired at a school that is right down the road from my house.
Ever since then, the time has flew by as I have been amerced in my classroom. In my "spare time" at school I helped put on a musical along with another teacher and the music teacher. It was awesome to see it come to fruition, but I am definitely glad that it is over. I have gotten the most wonderful compliments from my principal, to the point where I wonder if she just likes to feed my ego, but it's so amazing to know that she supports and believes in me. And believe it or not, I am getting a student teacher in January! I'm still a little foggy on how this came to be, but Di pulled me into her office and told me that she wanted me to teach someone because I'm "one of the best and most natural teachers she has seen", so needless to say, she starts in a few weeks! It's so weird to think that literally a year ago from today I was excited about student teaching, and I am actually getting a student teacher. I truly feel that I am exactly where I am supposed to be right now, and that is all I need.
As far as Dan and the kids go, they all have had a wonderful year as well. Everyone has stayed healthy and safe, and we are truly an amazingly happy family. Benjamin's speech is improving a bit, but I think he'll still need speech services in the future. He's such a good natured boy, and watching his genuine care for others always makes me smile. Audrey is doing awesome in first grade, she's in advanced placement for everything. She's actively involved in gymnastics, dance, and girl scouts, so she definitely keeps us busy!
Yes, 2010 truly has been an amazing year. I can't wait to see what 2011 has in store for us!
