Meggo's Moments

Fell behind in 2009

2010-01-11T05:30:00.012-05:00

I just realized I had completely neglected this blog...I have moved to this blogto journal about my teaching abroad. I still want to keep this blog up to date with my personal stuff, so here it goes...

In 2009 I was still in South Carolina teaching at Blythe, for some reason I don't have pictures from January...I'm pretty sure I accidentally deleted my pictures from my camera. So nothing for January...

February

I celebrated Katie Ro's 26th birthday with the FU girls before leaving for the ISS recruitment fair in Philly...

Where I hung out with my niece, Ebelle

And took a job in Dalian, China at DAIS

March

I spent numerous weekends in Atlanta, something about that city I love

April

Spent Spring Break cruising with Jaime, Amanda, and Meredith

Was reminded of how powerful and great our God is when He healed Ainsley

May

Celebrated friend's birthdays

and weddings in Charleston

Took my kids to the State House

June
Said bye to my Blythe kiddos

Loved on these cuties often

Hosted a housewarming party for Katie

Had a FUBball reunion

July

Spent good times with the fam for the fourth

Saw family in Nebraska

August

Said goodbyes

And started an amazing adventure...Pan Jin, China

Immersed myself into the Chinese culture

September

Started teaching my new students

October

Traveled to Thailand and made memories to last a lifetime

Celebrated Halloween Asian Style

November

Played on the "Bowling Stones"

Celebrated my 27th birthday in CHINA!

Spent Thanksgiving away from home, but with new friends and "family"

December

Threw a charity party for a local family

Flew home to see my family and friends

What will 2010 bring? Who knows, I'm just going to enjoy the ride :)

Independence Day Weekend

2009-07-06T12:01:00.004-04:00

This past weekend most of the fam was at the lake to celebrate July 4th. The Watkins came down on Wednesday and the Scotts got here Thursday night. We basically spent the whole weekend swimming at the pool. The Scotts introduced a new game to play, Diboo-Daboo.l We all wished Katie, Amy, and David were there the whole time. It would have uped the competition in the game. Beckham swam almost the whole weekend without water wings! Way to go bud! Ainsley's laugh was infectious. Laura is growing up so fast and is a great baker. Andrew is competitive as they come and loves his dog and sisters. Emma is so mature and sweet, we had a great talk the first night they got here. Sarah is so sweet, she waves and says "Hiiii!" and "Byyyyyye".

Overall it was a great weekend with family. I took lots of pictures of all the kiddos, because let's face it I am that aunt that shows her nieces and nephews off.

Rest in Me

2009-06-30T17:26:00.001-04:00

I am constantly finding myself worrying about the future or beating myself up about the past. During my daily reading from Jesus Calling I read this. The author writes as if it is God speaking directly to her and then mixes in verses He speaks to her. I heart it!

Rest with me a while. You have journeyed up a steep, rugged path in recent days. The way ahead of you is shrouded in uncertainty. Look neither behind you nor before you. Instead, focus your attention on Me, your constant Companion. Trust that I will equip you fully for whatever awaits you on your journey.

I designed time to be a protection for you. You couldn't beat to see all your life at once. Though I am unlimited by time, it is in the present moment that I meet you. Refresh yourself in My company, breathing deep draughts of My Presence. The highest level of trust is to enjoy Me moment by moment. I am with you, watching over you wherever you go.

Psalm 143:8; Genesis 28:15

Isn't God amazing!

A-Z Survey

2009-06-28T08:32:00.000-04:00

A

Available: Yep

Age: 26...wow that seems so old.

Annoyance: Disrespectful people. Lazy people.

Animals? Nope, although I fell in love with Miv's dog, Wrigley

B

Best feeling in the world: Being in love.

Best weather: Sunny, but not too hot

Been in love: Yes, but it was awhile ago.

Been on stage: Yep, I think the last time was for the 3rd grade play.

Boys: Some of my best friends.

C

Candy: Chocolate please.

Chinese / Mexican food: Tough one...I like both.

Cake or pie: Cake for sure. Red Velvet please.

Continent to visit: I'm moving to China in about a month. I want to go to all of them.

D

Dancing in the rain: Too cliche.

Drop things: Not very often, if I do it's my phone.

Dog: Cinders when I grew up, God only knows where he ended up.

Diamonds: Sure? Not sure what I'm supposed to say here.

E

Eyes: Hazel. When I cry they turn really green.

Everyone’s got: A need for Jesus.

F

First thought when you wake up: Thank you for waking me up this morning. Then, man I want to keep sleeping!

Food: Too hard to narrow it down. I love me some ice cream.

G

Greatest fear: Failure in any aspect of my life.

Gum: Used to chew Cotton Candy Bubble Gum before every high school game.

H

Hair color: Brown with highlights

Happy: Most the time, I am very blessed.

Holiday: Thanksgiving with the whole fam. I also love the 4th of July.

I

Ice cream: Peanut Butter and Chocolate

Instrument: Nope, I played violin in Elementary school for a year.

J

Jewelry: Fun to accessorize.

Job: Excited about moving to China to teach!

K

Keep a journal? Randomly, I need to get better at it. It seems the only time I write anything in them is when I am going through something.

Kissing: It's been awhile...

L

Laughed so hard you cried: In Atlanta with KatieRo telling a story.

Last time slept: Not well. Kept waking up.

M

Movies: Anything except horror/scary. NO THANK YOU!

Motion sickness: Nope, can't say I have.

N

Not ready for: Missing my family and friends.

Name: Megan, lol. I have kids' names picked out, is that crazy?

O

One wish: I couldn't narrow it down to one, plus I think that is a cheesy question.

P

Perfect pizza: Depends on my mood. I do love homemade BBQ Chicken.

Pets: Nope

Q

Quote you’re loving: “It's always smarter to go straight than to move in the best of circles"

R

Reality TV: It's like a train wreck, I can't help watching it.
S

Song of the moment: Anything Michael Jackson...RIP

Salad Dressing: Um YES!!!

Strawberries: Not a big fan

T

Thunderstorms: Don't mind them if I'm not alone.

Trust: Don't have much in guys.

U

Unpredictable: Fun, but I like to know what is going on.

V

Vacation spot: Caribbean Islands, anywhere with a secluded beach.

W

Weakness: Thinking I can change/improve people.

Worst feeling: Regrets.

X

X-rays: I have had many.

Y

Yellow: Bright and cheerful.

Z

Zoo animal: Giraffes!

Crown Royal?

2009-05-27T12:42:00.001-04:00

Why I am thinking of it...

The other day during unpacking in the morning I heard D say to K "Why you got a liquor bag?". Of course I immediately went over to assess the situation. Sure enough K had a Crown Royal bag to keep her book fair money in. When I asked her why she had it she simply said, "My mama gave it to me as a change purse." Go figure.

I don't know what is more disturbing the fact that D knew what a liquor bag was or that K's mom gave her the bag as a change purse. You tell me.

Procrastination at it's best

2009-05-27T12:26:00.000-04:00

I should be packing up my classroom into a million boxes, but this is more fun...

1. Who knows a secret or two about you?
Katie, both of them.
2. Four words to explain why you last threw up?
Can't remember
3. Have you ever burned yourself?
Only small burns attempting to bake/cook
4. Who is your hero?
Soldiers serving our country, my parents, Michael Jordan
5. Would you ever want to be a supermodel?
I think it would be fun to get pampered but I love food too much!
6. When is your next party?
This weekend, so excited for Adrienne's bday party!
7. Do you know what you will wear tomorrow?
Nope, I decide in the mornings.
8. Have you ever accidentally eaten an insect?
I don’t even want to think about the possibilities.
9. Do you talk baby talk?
To babie of course, doesn't everyone?
10. Would you ever work in a retirement home?
I actually thought about volunteering last summer.
11. Are you ever purposely irritating?
Only to a certain lucky few...dad.
12. If you could fly, where would you go first?
Anywhere but here...just kidding, probably Greece or Australia.
13. Do you prefer boats or planes?
Planes.
14. One best friend or 10 acquaintances?
Quality always trumps quantity.
15. Favorite food?
Anything with sugar and butter, does that count?
16. Do you believe that your first love never dies?
I don't think die, but maybe just in vegetable state. I think it's always going to be a memory, but not an active one.
17. What upcoming event are you waiting and ready for?
Bball Reunion!
18. Do you get your nails done?
My toes = always...used to get my fingers, sometimes but not often
19. What was the last thing you ordered at McDonald’s?
I don't like McD's...I can't tell you the last time I went.
20. Are you an emotional person?
Not really...only during a certain time of the month :)
21. When did your last relationship end?
about 2 years ago
22. Favorite place to be?
anywhere with people I love...but the beach is pretty great.
23. How do you feel about your hair?
Um don't really have feelings about it?
24. Do you sleep with a fan on?
Yes, two fans.
25. Did you sleep in past noon today?
negative
26. Are you sarcastic?
Yes sir.
27. Did you have a good birthday this year?
I had a great birthday!! Ask me that after this year's and I'll let you know how it is celebrating it half way across the world.
28. What is your favorite kind of weather?
Sunny, but not too hot.
29. Have you ever cried during a movie?
Um yea. Who hasn't?
30. Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with?
Either Shannon or JT, can't remember the days.
31. Who was the last person you cried in front of?
My parents...it was when I had the hole in my leg.
32. Do you like your name?
Yep, it's nothing special. I love my middle name though, used to hate it but have grown to appreciate it.

Hostess with the Mostest and Singleness...

2009-05-25T12:32:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I hosted my first official party for someone. Katie bought a house this spring and I was so glad to get the chance to give her a housewarming party. Laney said she wanted to as well, so we paired up and took it on. It was so much fun, although a lot of work. I don't know how mom does it so much. I was exhausted at the end of the day, then had to get in my car and drive 2 hours home. Katie was so grateful for us throwing the party. She seemed happy, which made me happy. I loved doing it for her.

Furman bball at Katie's housewarming...Miv, Laney, Katie, Orion, and me

Lately I have been thinking about my future. I never thought I would be 26 and still not married. I always thought I would be the girl that went to school, met some guy that also played college sports, get married, and live happily ever after. Well obviously that didn't happen...life did. The thing is I love my life. I wouldn't change it for anything. I love being able to go where I want to without having to check in, buying whatever I want to without checking "our" finances, and just having fun with my girls and hanging out with all my guy friends. I know God hasn't brought me someone yet for a reason, so I am just enjoying the singleness. As you can see below...

Me, Kim, and Katie out at Front Page News

Liz met up with us!!

Since my last relationship I have learned a great deal about myself. I'm stronger than I thought I was and I now know how to protect my heart. I am learning not to follow my heart because, The heart is deceitful about all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? (Jer. 17:9) and to follow my conscience, the Spirit. Believe me I still struggle with wanting to just follow my heart and let myself go, but thankfully God has helped me protect my heart.

The other weekend my friend asked me why I don't date. I just told him that I don't feel like I have met anyone that is worth it. I know myself I catch feelings fast and get attached, so I figured the best way to avoid this was to just not date. He asked how long until I will. I honestly couldn't answer that. I know I have a lot of work I need to do on myself to have a healthy and godly relationship and lots of things on my plate. Plus leaving for China in about 2 months doesn't make for the best start to relationships...lol.

Random thoughts...

2009-05-11T18:56:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it is less than 3 months before I leave for China. I have so many emotions and feelings, ones I can only expect to increase as my departure gets closer. I spent this weekend in Atlanta for a friend's graduation from Emory. I had a blast and we spent the whole weekend laughing. I couldn't help but think about how much I will miss all my friends and family when I am gone. Saying it out loud sounds dumb and egocentric, but it's weird that everyone's lives are going to continue going on without me here to experience them.

I am pretty good at keeping in touch with people. When I left Hofstra I talked with my good friends weekly, if not daily. I was in Alex's wedding and got to hold Joy's baby when she was born. I am probably closer now with the people I went to Furman with than I was when we were in school. I know I will stay connected, but it won't be with the consistency that I am used to. I am used to random texts, long conversations on my drive to and from work, getting dinner and drinks with friends, or driving to Atlanta to hang out, just stopping by a friend's when I am in the neighborhood. I won't be able to do that in China. For all the times I will miss seeing my friends faces, I know that I will keep in touch and it will show me who are my true friends. Nowadays it is so much easier to stay in touch, I mean even my dad is on facebook!! (Just kidding dad)

I am also so excited I can hardly wait. I can't wait to set up my apartment and a new classroom, meet new people, travel all over Asia, new experiences, the culture and much more. The one thing I am not excited about...packing! Anyone that knows me knows that I always overpack!

Right now I am just focusing on closing out this year the best I can. We took our annual field trip to Columbia at the end of April. I will not miss planning that trip! We have our first day of standardized state tests tomorrow. It is always hard for me, I am constantly wondering if I did a good enough job. It's hard to believe this year is coming to an end, it seems to have flown by.

My class in a photo op for a respresentative

I have also been busy every weekend for awhile. The other weekend I went to Melissa's (TFer) wedding in Charleston. My friend, Jason, was nice enough to come with me. The wedding was beautiful and Melissa was glowing.

The beautiful bride and me

Jason and me

This past weekend I went to Atlanta for Paul's graduation. It was a fun weekend with "the crew". Larral, Rodney, JT, and Ant all made it into town to help celebrate. It's always fun when everyone is together, you never know what is going to happen. I am going back this weekend because Laney and I are hosting a housewarming party for Katie. I'll post pictures of Atlanta later. :)

Praying for Neecy

2009-04-14T11:23:00.001-04:00

Pray for my sweet niece Ainsley that is in ICU. God has already worked miracles, but pray He continues to hold her in the palm of His hand. Also, pray Julie, Monte, and Beckham to have peace and comfort.

Just another reason I love basketball

2009-03-31T08:28:00.000-04:00

I can't stop laughing at this commercial...

In the moment

2009-03-24T11:26:00.000-04:00

God has really brought to my attention some things. I am constantly finding myself in a state of "what ifs/I can't wait until." I was running yesterday thinking about how I can't wait to go to China, or to find a man that loves me, or to have a family when God hit me on the head with the old why can't you be contempt with where you have me now. I think this came from the sermon on Sunday at Crosspoint. It was about how God has a mission for our lives and it is planned. He has me where I am in my life right now for a reason. I need to be looking for opportunities to serve and show His love now, not wait until later. I can't want something that hasn't happened yet, God hasn't given me what I want for a reason that He knows. I need to enjoy the time NOW. It's funny because so many times when I was anxious for the next phase in my life once I get there I find myself looking back and wishing I could relive the past phase. I think if I keep hoping and wishing for the next phase I will miss the stage I'm in right now. And let's be real it couldn't get much better than it is now. I have awesome roomies, a great job I love, amazing friends, and live in the most beautiful place ever. I need to be living in the moment, not in the past or the future. Just some thoughts...

Happy Birthday Katie!!!

2009-03-21T15:49:00.000-04:00

Today is Katie's birthday!! Happy birthday Katie, you're getting old! Just kidding, I'm right behind you. I'm so glad to be your little (but taller) sister. Even though we used to fight like crazy when we were little, we are so close now. Thank you for always being there for me, making me laugh, listening to my craziness, and challenging me to become a better person. I am so thankful God gave me you as a sister. You're not just my sister but a best friend as well! I love you and hope you are having the best birthday ever. I am sad you are in Iraq, but I think it is great you are serving so many that serve us with their bravery. It was good to hear your voice today! Love you and miss you!! xoxo Oh yea...For your next birthday you will just have to come visit me in China! By the way it was harder to find pics of us then I thought it would be considering we take so many. I hope they are up to your standards :) Love you!

Hahahahahaha

RIP Keowee

2009-03-18T08:56:00.000-04:00

About two weeks ago Aunt Susan and Lamar found a rhinoceros beetle outside. Aunt Susan being the animal lover she is saved him and thought of my class. She called and asked if I would want it as a class pet. My first thoughts were no way, yuck, disgusting. The teacher in me then came out and I thought what a great opportunity to study its adaptations since we were just finishing our unit on animal adaptations. Dad went and got the beetle from Aunt Susan and I was now the proud owner of a pet beetle.

When I introduced it to my class they had the same reaction as I did, grossed out! Then after warming up to it a little they LOVED it. They were calling him pet names and even named him Keowee because they knew he was found over near my parents' house. The kids held him and we researched about rhinoceros beetles. Who knew they were a common pet for people to have. He really was beautiful. His shell looked like it was hand painted.

Sadly, he died after only about a week and a half. I don't know why he didn't survive. He was the most spoiled beetle ever. One little girl brought in organic mangoes, apples, and grapes. I don't even eat organic food and this little guy was chowing! The kids would hold him and let him "tickle" them on their hands. One day he was not responsive, I thought he was just sleeping, but he didn't move when we touched him. After another day of comatose we decided he had gone to beetle heaven.

I decided we should have a funeral for him. I brought in a box and we wrote RIP Keowee on it. Yesterday we had his funeral. It was hilarious. The kids were so serious about it. We had a long procession line. I dug a hole and we placed him in it. One little boy said we should have a moment of silence to remember his life. We all bowed our heads and stood on the top of a hill by our school silently. I looked up and all 22 of my students had their heads bowed and hands crossed. When I ended the tribute to Keowee one little boy asked if he could say a few words. I said sure. He went on to shout, "Oh Lord!!! Why did you have to take him? He was so young, only 1 1/2 weeks!!! I hope you enjoy heaven Keowee! I'll see you when I get there!" It was the funniest thing I have seen in awhile. That was followed by a little girl placing flowers on his grave.

Needless to say my days at work are NEVER boring. RIP Keowee, we will miss you!

Funtimes in February

2009-03-02T17:41:00.000-05:00

I promise I am going to get better at updating my blog. For the past couple months I have been really busy with teaching and coaching. Besides, let's be honest I don't think the 5 people who are reading it care. I want to do a better job for myself so I know what I was doing and thinking when I look back at it. It's crazy to go back and read my first entries because it seems like so long ago. Anyways a lot has gone down since I wrote.

My middle school team won the Greenville country basketball tournament. It was an exciting and amazing game. We won on a last second shot. Honestly the girls didn't play very well, but they didn't give up and they kept playing hard. I was so proud of them. Directly from the game I drove down to Atlanta. It was my best friend from Furman,Katie's, birthday. We were all going out to do Karaoke to celebrate. We had a blast. I am so thankful for my teammates at Furman. We always have so much fun together and I know they always have my back. My sister, Katie, was arriving in the A for our cousin Julie's wedding. Our other two cousins, Mark and John, picked her up and brought her by the Karaoke place. It was so fun to see them. It seems so weird that we are all old enough to get into a bar. I still remember playing Ricky-Ticky-Stare together at the beach when we were all little. After a great night singing "I Want You Back" by Jackson 5 and "Baby Got Back" (Katie Ro's fav) with my girls we went back to Katie's.

FU Ballas

The birthday girl and me

The cousins all grown up

The next morning was an early one as us Scott girls (and Katie Ro) couldn't pass up a trip to Chic-Fil-A with my parents, Aunts, and Uncles. It was a fun time and good food. We headed to Target to buy luggage for the next leg of my journey and then went back to Katie's to change for the wedding. In Target Katie and I were being kids and juggling a ball between the two of us. I don't know where the video recording of it is, but I'll post it if I get it.

All the Scotts met up by Julie and the Campbell's hotel to have but what other than...MORE FOOD! We talked and talked and finished getting ready for the wedding. From there it was onto the wedding.

We got there and saw J. Kirk, one of my cousins I haven't seen since my Big Pop's funeral almost 7 years ago. It was good chatting with him before the ceremony. The wedding was wonderful. The church was filled to the max, a testimony to how many people love and care for Julie and Jodi. After the ceremony we headed to the reception. It was so great to be with family and relax. Julie looked gorgeous in her gown and was simply glowing the whole day.

At the reception

Beckham and Poppy

From there it was more time with family at the house of one of the Swanson's friends. Their house is 5 houses up the street from Katie Ro's...small world! We ate more and laughed. When that was over Katie and I walked back to Katie Ro's house. I had an early flight to Philadelphia to catch in the morning.

I went to Philadelphia to go to the International School Services recruitment conference. I had asked permission from my principal to go, since I would be missing a week of school. I arrived in Philly Sunday morning and was picked up by Joy (my best friend from my days at Hofstra). I spent the day with her and her family. She has the cutest little girl, Ebelle, that is full of energy. It is so crazy to think that Joy and I met almost ten years ago and now she is married with a baby girl!

Ebelle and me

Monday is when the conference started. I stayed at the hotel because I thought it would be better for networking and less stressful. To offset the cost of the hotel room I got a random roommate that was on a rooming list. It could not have worked out better! She is a great girl that teaches at Langley (only 15 minutes from where I grew up). We had so much in common and really had a great time the whole week. We went to dinner the first night after orientation to a quaint resturant that was celebrating Presidents' Day by having a menu from the 1700's. My food was actually really good and we had a great talk. The next day was full of interviews.

To make the short for the sake of not boring y'all to death...I interviewed with a bunch of schools. I had been contacted by a school in Dalian, China before the conference. I had an interview with Dalian first thing after sign-ups. I met the Head of the School, Brian, and felt at ease at once. The interview was intense, but I felt good the whole time. It was reaffirming for me to be able to share my philosophy on education and passion for children. Brian asked if I would come back for another interview later in the day. I had interviews at other schools and then went to my "call back". I walked in to his room (it is very strange how they hold the interviews, they are in the recruiters hotel rooms) and there was another woman in there. They offered me the job and went through the package and benefits with me. I had until the next day to tell them. I was super excited, but really wanted to pray about it and think it through. I never thought I would be in China! I went to the other interviews I had scheduled and was offered another job in Bangkok, Thailand. I had until the next day to tell her as well. That night there was cocktail hour for recruiters and recruits. My roommate and I went down and were talking to some people. She also got a job offer from a school in China! We were sitting at a table when we saw both of our Heads of School talking to each other. We went over and started talking with them and had so much fun. She knew she was going to take the job, but just wanted a night to sleep on it. I knew deep down I wanted Dalian, but didn't want to rush into it.

I prayed and talked to my family and decided I was going to China! I called Brain the next morning and told him yes. He was super excited. I went down to his room to make it official and then came back to mine to relax. The process was over, or maybe just beginning. My roommate, Elizabeth, and I decided to go walk around Philly. Of course the weather was terrible, freezing and raining, but we still went. We ended up going to Chinatown for lunch! It was so much fun. All I kept thinking was, I can't believe I'm going to China! That night my school and Elizabeth's school took all the candidates they hired out to dinner at this awesome Vietnamese restaurant. We had great food and great conversation. It was so eye opening to me. I never knew there was this huge world of international teaching out there. After dinner the other girls and I decided to go to a Karaoke bar that was right next door. We figured it would be fun and also let us get to know everyone better. We had a blast and it was good to form those connections.

Elizabeth and me in Chinatown

Dinner at Vietnam in Philly with the whole gang

Karaoke for the second time in a week

So that is it. I am going to China to teach at the Dalian American International School to teach 5th grade. I will be there for 2 years. They fly me home at the end of each school year, so I will be back in the states every summer. I am so excited, but I don't think it has fully hit me. There are times where I am thinking to myself.."This time next year I will be in China" or "I'm going to miss doing _______ when I am in China". But then I think, wow what an incredible opportunity to be blessed with. I would regret it if I didn't do it and I know I will grow so much, both personally and professionally. I will try to keep updating this with the departure date of August 3rd approaching faster than I know.

Sorry that was so long, but I wanted to have it all down for memories.

It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you...without a dope beat to step to

2009-01-25T19:55:00.000-05:00

I'm back ladies and gentlemen.(all 5 of you...mostly my family) I just realized I hadn't written on here in almost 2 months. Well, a lot has gone down. Let me catch you up...

~Enjoyed Thanksgiving and along winter break with my family in South Carolina. Went to ATL for New Year's and had a great time with my old FU girls. Unfortunately I accidentally deleted all my pics from NYE. :(

~Went to the John Legend concert...amazing. Highly recommend you go if you get the change.

~I'm still coaching middle school ball and having a blast. The girls are great and really work hard. It's so fun to get to play again at practice (I have to learn to not go hard and be less competitive). As of now we are 11-0. They are sweet girls and very coachable. Funny I thought it would help me not miss bball, but it makes me want to play MORE. I wish there was a league I could play in around here.

~As far as my future a lot is happening/or could be. I decided to finally go for my dream of teaching internationally. I have always wanted to experience different cultures. I didn't do it last year because I wanted to have a little more experience. I decided this year that I was going to do it. I sent in all my info, resume, etc to the recruitment company and now have a profile. I have sent a bunch of stuff out to some schools and am attending a Recruitment Conference in Philly in February. I am really excited. Please pray that I go where God wants me, and not just where I want to go. I have heard a lot from a school in Brazil. Actually the Headmaster is coming up next week to watch me teach. Craziness! I will keep y'all updated on everything.

~My class is adorable. Please just pray for them and some of their lives at home. Parents make me so mad sometimes, I wish they knew how much of an impact they had on the rest of their children's lives.

Other than that my life is boring. I have been reading a lot. I got hooked into the Twilight series of books. It is a teeny bopper series, but I love it. I have read the first two books and am going to get the third asap.

Cardboard Testimonies

2008-11-16T16:43:00.000-05:00

I sat here and cried watching this. What power and healing God has if we let Him. I am so amazed of his grace and love for me.

here are the lyrics to the song in the video:

How He Loves Us

Verse 1:
He is jealous for me,
Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden,
I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realise just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me.

Pre-Chorus:
And oh, how He loves us so,
Oh how He loves us,
How He loves us so

Chorus 1:
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.

Verse 2:
We are His portion and He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,
If grace is an ocean, we’re all sinking.
So Heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss,
And the heart turns violently inside of my chest,
I don’t have time to maintain these regrets,
When I think about, the way…

Chorus 2:
He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.

*Verse 3:
Well, I thought about You the day Stephen died,
And You met me between my breaking.
I know that I still love You, God, despite the agony.
…They want to tell me You’re cruel,
But if Stephen could sing, he’d say it’s not true, cause…

Chorus 3:
Cause He loves us,
Oh how He loves us.
Oh how He loves us.
Oh how He loves.
Yeah, He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves us,
Oh how He loves.*

Catch up...

2008-11-15T11:51:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I have written on my little blog. Here are some things I have been up to the past couple months.

~ MY old college roomie, Mivvi, got married in Birmingham. My best friend Katie and I took a little road trip down there to go. It was a lot of fun and so good to see Miv so happy.

~I went down to Atlanta for my bday. I am now 26. I remember when that seemed SO OLD. I don't feel like a 26 year old, granted I don't know what it is supposed to feel like. Anyways it was a really special time a bunch of my girls came in from all over to celebrate. My friend from Furman, Jess, and her mom and I went to the World of Coke. As much as I go to Atlanta I never do the "tourist" stuff. We had a lot of fun. Then it was time to celebrate! We went to dinner at Shout and then out to a club. I had a great time with good friends.

~I am still teaching 3rd grade. My class this year is WONDERFUL! I couldn't have asked for a better class. They are genuinely sweet and nice to each other. It makes life so much easier. I have some funny stories, that will be for another post.

~I am now the head coach for a middle school right next to my elementary school. It all happened so fast, but I am now the head coach. I made my team 2 weeks ago and we just finished our first week of practice. We have a lot to learn, but it is so much fun. The girls are good, but just don't know the basics of the game, when they learn them watch out they are going to be GREAT! Our first game is December 8th.

~On a not so fun note I had my first root canal on Tuesday. It was not fun, I hate the dentist and was dreading it. The doctor was very nice, but I just didn't care for someone shoving stuff in my teeth. It hurt tons after and the pain medicine didn't work. Oh joy, I was not fun to be around. Mom and dad are so sweet they brought me a Chic-Fil-A milkshake home when they were out doing errands.

~I am still living at home with the rents. I am loving it though. I mean other than the home cooked meals, wake up checks, breakfast before school and mom making my lunch, it is just great to be with mom and dad. It is fun to see them settling into their new home and this area. They are busy busy, I think this week they had something every night except for Friday. I gave them my tickets to the Clemson game this weekend. I knew mom would love it, she is such a huge fan of college football.

A little late...

2008-11-13T20:39:00.000-05:00

but this guy is head on with a bunch of stuff...

Politics

2008-10-28T14:52:00.000-04:00

I saw this video last night. I love how excited the students are about it. It is amazing that a class of seventh graders wrote it.

Dumb People

2008-09-26T10:27:00.000-04:00

On my drive to work today I was listening to a radio talk show. A singer was on promoting his new CD that is coming out soon. The conversation that followed made me so annoyed.

Host: Who are you voting for?
Joe: Obama
Host: Are you a registered voter?
Joe: Nah, He doesn't need my help.
Host: You know the race is pretty close and you should register because your vote could matter.
Joe: How do I register?
Host: Goes on to tell him how to register....
Joe: How many days do I have to vote?
Host: (kinda in shock at this point) Um it's a one day thing.
Joe: So when is voting day?

Me thinking is this guy serious?!

Host: Well actually it is called ELECTION DAY and it is November 4th. (Goes on to say how normal people have off of word to go vote..blah blah)
Joe: Man...I'm going to be out of the country on tour...Can I vote online?

ARE YOU SERIOUS JOE!? Please tell me you are kidding. This isn't American Idol, you can't vote online, or text your vote in, or call 1-800-VOTE-OBAMA. You actually have to take your dumb behind to a voting site and place your vote. You know in a booth....

I think if I was the host I would have told him you go ahead and vote online one less idiot voting for real :)

Goodness if people like him are voting I am scared for our country...Hopefully they won't know how to register or miss the "voting day". We can only hope.

Welcome home...

2008-09-14T21:26:00.000-04:00

Mom and dad were gone this weekend. When I first came in the door from Bible study tonight dad called me down to ask me a question about something in my room. This is was my reaction to it...

This is what I saw...

Julie is turning mom and dad into WT. I think they should put him on the dock, what do you think?

Meme

2008-09-11T21:45:00.000-04:00

TEN YEARS AGO
September 1998
I was a sophomore at Oakton High School. I made the varsity field hockey team and was probably practicing and/or playing in games everyday. I remember Peed and I used to have so much fun. I made lots of new friends that year and was in the best shape of my life!

I was also playing fall ball for basketball. We would have the best time playing and just having fun. Man I miss ball.

FIVE YEARS AGO
September 2003

My first preseason at Furman. I was recovering from surgery in the spring on my foot. I was finally getting comfortable at my new school. My roomies were Mivvers and Katie. I used to love to go to the games and support all my football friends. We were probably killing ourselves at two a days during fall break. Ugh. What happened to playing for love of the game ?( see above)

FIVE MONTHS AGO
April 2008

I was ready for school to end. Wait that was September of last year too. I took a trip up to NY for Alex's bridal shower. We went to see Avenue Q and had lots of fun hanging out, eating, and seeing old friends. I also went to Atlanta and I think back to NOVA. It was a busy month.

FIVE THINGS ON MY TO-DO LIST FOR TOMORROW
(it's amazing I know what a TO-DO list is)
1. Wake up early to get in the word
2. Give Reading/Spelling/Math Tests (I'm so mean giving them all on one day)
3. Decide whether or not to go to Athens for my bball girls weekend
4. Get my car detailed
5. Take a nap (hey I can be hopeful)

FIVE THINGS FOLKS DON'T KNOW ABOUT ME (isn't there a reason people don't know)
1. I don't have it all together
2. I am not as disciplined as I used to be
3. I
4. got
5. nothin

FIVE BAD HABITS
1. Going to others or other things when I have a problem instead of God.
2. Non confrontational. I let things eat away at me.
3. Not flossing every night before I go to bed.
4. Always have to end the meal with something sweet (I'm workin on it)
5. Don't like when people are mad at me.

FIVE PLACES I'VE LIVED

1. Jacksonville, FL
2. Oak Hill, VA
3. Hempstead, NY
4. Greenville, SC
5. Six Mile, SC

Well, there you have it. It's me in a nutshell and now it's your turn! I'm taggin anyone who reads this blog. Whether you post this on your own blog or in my comments section, it doesn't matter! JUST DO IT!

Fallen but not Forgotten

2008-09-11T14:43:00.000-04:00

Don't really have words for today... thought pictures say more. Every year I get emotional over the day. I can't believe it was 7 years ago, I still remember it like it was yesterday. I remember feeling the compassion, unity, strength, and spirit of random people in New York. I think that's why NY will always have a part of my heart. I witnessed them all coming together and becoming STRONGER. My heart goes out to those who lost loved ones. I'm thankful for my country and the ones who protect it with courage and heart.
xoxo

Pre-September 11th

Ground Zero present day

Lights tribute

The human spirit is not measured by the size of the act, but by the size of the heart.

God bless America

USA Basketball Commercial

2008-08-31T08:54:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to make sure everyone saw this commercial. Love it. God bless America!

(make sure you stop the music before playing the video)

Back at it again...

2008-08-29T18:04:00.000-04:00

We started school last Tuesday. I was a bit weary about going back. Those of you I am close to realize that it was not an easy year last year. My little students were more like little demons and I was very frustrated. But I am here to say God answers prayers! I guess it's true what they say about Him not giving us more than we can handle. I think if I would have had another class from H... I wouldn't teach again. Don't get me wrong I did love those kids with all my heart, but they made my life hard...very hard. I can't tell you how many times I thought I was a terrible teacher and wasn't making a difference in their lives because I wasn't seeing any changes.

I love my class this year and am really looking forward to it. It's crazy, I forgot what it felt like to teach, not just discipline the students. It is fun! I know it is just the first 9 days, but I am looking forward to the next 171. :)

Other happenings in my life (since I haven't blogged in forever). The first weekend of August I went to a co-workers wedding. It was so much fun. I am so thankful for such good friends at work. We get together for dinner often and have breakfast every Friday before school. I love my girls so much!

The Watkins have been here lots. I love being so close to my niece and nephew (just with the lil Scotts were closer too :(! ) Beckham and Ainsley are getting so big. We were at the mall yesterday and they suckered me! We got a snack (some healthy Chik-Fil-A fries) to split. Julie was shopping while we were finishing and Beckham looks at me and says "Aunt Megan mommy says we can have a dessert when we eat something healthy like french fries." I think he saw I wasn't buying it and quickly replied "Fries are healthy, they are potatoes." I didn't know what to say to that, so I bought them cookies. :) No wonder why I am their favorite aunt :) (just kidding everyone)

Here are some pics from the past ohhhhh month or so...

My girls @ Suzanne's wedding

My good friend, Jess, from college came to visit!

Beckham and me

The newlyweds and me out on the lake

You're it next...

2008-07-30T23:13:00.000-04:00

The Rules: Answer the questions using only one word.
Then tag four others.
1. Where is your cell phone? here
2. Your significant other? none
3. Your hair? short
4. Your mother? amazing
5. Your father? funny
6. Your favorite thing? napping
7. Your dream last night? forget
8. Your favorite drink? water
9. Your dream/goal? God's
10. The room you’re in? bedroom
11. Your hobby? reading
12. Your fear? losing
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? wherever
14. What you’re not? patient
15. Muffins? chocolatechip
16. One of your wish list items? car
17. Where you grew up? NOVA
18. The last thing you did? email
19. What are you wearing? pj's
20. Favorite gadget? cellphone
21. Your pets? none
22. Your computer? fucntional
23. Your mood? sleepy
24. Missing someone? lots
25. Your car? smashed
26. Something you’re not wearing? socks
27. Favorite store? Target
28. Like someone? yep
29. Your favorite color? purple
30. When is the last time you laughed? tonight
31. Last time you cried? longtime

Wow that was hard! Didn't know I was so wordy...now you try and leave a comment letting me know you did so I can check yours!

I'm officially a southern girl now...

2008-07-29T16:32:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I took a venture to my old stomping grounds up in NY. I was in my college roommate's wedding on Saturday and was throwing Joy a baby shower on Sunday (although her baby came 3 weeks early so we didn't have it). It was a crazy weekend and I was going non-stop the whole time. I literally slept at a different friend's place every night. I'm not gonna bore you with all the detail and honestly I just want to go lay in MY OWN bed.

Top moments from the weekend
1)Alex and Johnny's wedding...after 10 years in the making it was all worth it!
2)Going to Philly unexpectedly and meeting Joy's new baby girl Ebele
3)Seeing old friends from up north
4)Being in NYC...I love it there. Although I would never want to live there.
5)Before I flew up to NYC I spent the night in ATL and went to dinner w/ some friends and had a great time!
6)Seeing an infamous NY rat...it was huge!
7)Last but not least...arriving home

I do love the city, but it was a reminder how much I love it here in the south. Plus it wasn't fun carrying my luggage around all weekend!

Here are some pics from the weekend

With Larral @ Twist in ATL

Jess and me in the city...hadn't seen her in a couple years!

pic of the wedding party

the beautiful bride and her gorgeous dress!

me and Ebele...so cute!

Watkins Visit

2008-07-20T17:51:00.000-04:00

This weekend the Watkins came down. We had lots of fun. Those kids are adorable I tell ya. I can't believe how big they are getting too! Ains is now officially a "big girl" she told me over and over again this weekend. Beckham is so sweet and LOVES the pool. They got here Thursday night and we all watched "So You Think You Can Dance?" Beckham picked up some new moves for his next wedding.

Friday we went Blueberry picking and then we swam all day. The kiddos has lots of fun picking blueberries. I am shocked the did it for a whole hour!

Saturday everyone but me (I know I'm not a fun aunt) went to the Jockey Lot. For you northerners its basically a huge place that sells crap. Kinda like a flea market but from the reports I got a lot worse. While they were all at the Jockey Lot I went with my friend Shannon on her friend's boat on Lake Hartwell. It was so much fun. We drove around the lake a couple times, hung out, and then I was challenged to wakeboard. Being a Scott what did I do..."sure I can do that?" Ummmm let me tell you it is NOT easy. I was starting to almost pull up but then I decided I wanted to at least get to ride some waves and got on the knee board. I was happy with that, and it was a lot easier! Sunday we went to church and then out on Lamar's boat. (YEA he is keeping it here!!!)

Also on Friday I went over to a apartment complex that our church is ministering to. We played games with the kids there for about 2 hours. I met my sweet little girl that I will be mentoring. Please pray for Alicia and our relationship. I want to shower her with God's love and let her know she is special!

Here are some pics from the weekend...

That is one cute Furman fan!

Blueberry picking...yummy

I'm ready to go!

Mommy and Ainsley

Me and B-Man!

Beckham loves Poppy!

Prayers for Grandma Jean

2008-06-26T13:25:00.000-04:00

Please pray for my sweet Grandma Jean. The weekend she was put in the hospital because she was dehydrated. She has been going in waves...getting better and then getting worse. She keeps vomiting and her blood work is all out of whack. My uncle called this morning and said she is getting worse. She is very disoriented about where she is and as you can imagine frustrated. My mom is flying out to Nebraska to be with her first thing in the morning. Please keep her in your prayers. Thanks!

This is one of my favorite pictures of Grandma. She is so happy!

SummerSummertime

2008-06-25T15:04:00.000-04:00

As I spend my days layin out by the pool I often find myself dozing off to sleep singin this throw back...

Remember to pause my music player. Enjoy and welcome back to the early 90's :)

Baby Sarah

2008-06-24T20:26:00.001-04:00

I got to meet my darling niece, Sarah, for the first time this past weekend. She is so cute. She looks a lot like Laura and Emma when they were babies. She was a sweetie and so alert! Hopefully I will find my camera and can put up another picture...but for now this is all I have.

Amy and David's Wedding

2008-06-24T18:08:00.000-04:00

June 21st finally arrived. My oldest sister, Amy, got married to her love, David. It was an amazing day. Amy has been such a role model in trusting God and staying pure. The ceremony was so beautiful and honoring to God. Amy was glowing the whole entire day! She looked like a princess. My favorite part was watching David as my daddy was walking Amy down the aisle. He was awestruck! There were so many people there, you could just feel the love. Amy has never been happier. It was so good to see her and with someone that deserves her!

They are off on their honeymoon in St. John...I have to admit I am a little jealous. Here are some pictures from the wedding. I am so upset though, because I lost my camera at the wedding! If anyone finds it please give it to me...you can have the camera, I just want the memory card! (just kidding, I want the camera too...but I just don't want to lose those pictures) Hopefully it will turn up somewhere...

at the spa...

mama and her girls at Amy's bachelorette dinner @ the Cheesecake factory...yum!

The ring bearer and flower girls at the rehearsal

The siblings at the rehearsal

The beautiful bride

Daddy, Amy, and Mom

The siblings

The newlyweds!

The wedding party.

Flower girls; Ainsley and Laura

Too cute!

Dancing the night away.

Beckham breaking it down on the dance floor. He danced to EVERY song!

Uncle John, Aunt Julie, Mom, and Dad

Their goodbyes...nice ride!

It's been awhile...

2008-06-13T16:49:00.000-04:00

Okay so I took on Katie's role in the drought of posting on my blog...let me catch you up since, hmmm May was it?

1) Most important! Summer is here! We ended school on June 4th. I'm so thankful for being a teacher and having summer vacation.

My class on the last day of school!

2) Right after we were done with school six teaching friends and I made our way to Sullivan's Island for a relaxing weekend. We had so much fun laying out, going to a nice dinner at the Boathouse, and then to some place that had an 80's cover band. Needless to say I had so much fun, I was up on stage singing "Jesse's Girl".

all us girls

singing Jesse's Girl

3)I came back to reality and a basement full of stuff. Did I forget to mention my landlord needed my apt. so I moved in with mom and dad. YES ladies and gents a 25 year old living at home! But I am excited, I really feel like this is where God wants me. Besides what could be better than hanging out with mom and dad...at their pool! :) So I spent much of the week organizing my room in the morning, and laying by the pool during the day, and then organizing again.

4) Mom and I survived the hot box up to VA..when I say it was hot I mean hot. I kept praying that God would not make me such a brat to be around...by the end of the trip I don't know if he answered my prayers. But mom and I did get to listen to a book on CD...uThe Scarlett Threadu by Francine Rivers. It wasn't til the end of the book that I realized I had already read it...really Megan?! Am I getting that old that I can't remember stuff....goodness. But we are here now and we can start to celebrate Amy and David's marriage!

5) Also exciting news...onThursday I met with a young woman at the church about volunteering. I really feel like God is wanting me to step out of my comfort zone and show people His love. So we had a great talk and there were lots of ideas flying around...so this summer I am going to be helping with Game Day at a local gov't housing apartment complex. I am also going to be some little child's mentor...I'm super excited! More on that later.

I will update this post when I get back to SC with pics. Oh yeah I got a haircut....short short. I'll add that one too.

xoxo

Shakey Face

2008-05-08T07:44:00.000-04:00

One of my favorites ever, Mivvi, introduced me to the Shakey Face this past weekend. I think the pictures are self explainatory...please try it. You will die laughing. Miv is amazing at it...me on the other hand still learning. Give it a try!

The Queen Shaker

I can't help it...my eyes always go crossed

Shake it double time

This guy was hilarious...we had to get in on the action

Sunday Brunch

2008-05-07T09:37:00.000-04:00

This past Sunday some friends and I went to brunch. It is my new favorite thing to do. I have never done brunch in Greenville, just in ATL, but was so glad I did. I had an awesome omlette, toast, and fresh fruit. We went to a cute little place called Mary's Cottage down at Falls Park. It was my first time there, and I will definitely go back! We sat outside our table overlooked a beautiful garden and had a great view of the suspension bridge. I love the bridge. When you stand on it and people walk by you can feel the bridge sway. It is kind of creepy, but cool. I love the park and am always mad at myself that I don't make it down there more often. That will be my goal this spring.

Sometimes I wonder if because I am a teacher I look for things the normal person wouldn't. This is a cute little restaurant and I don't know how up with the times they are because they still do their bills by hand. (What restaurant does bills by hand anymore?!?) Back to the story...when I got my bill I looked it over and quickly realized that it was either 1)a really expensive omelet or 2)was wrong. My bill was for $22.70. I glanced down and saw that the waitress has carried her 1 to the wrong column. It should have been $12.70. I quietly called her over and told her I think she added it up incorrectly. She didn't understand. I immediately fell into teacher mode and showed her by doing the math problem next to hers. She was a little embarrassed and quickly fixed it. She brought me back my correct change. I was a little disappointed I wanted her to bring back the original bill so I could show my students how important math is in the real world, but I'm pretty sure she threw it away. So just remember check your work!

Mary's Cottage

Part of the garden we saw as we enjoyed our yummy brunch

The bridge

Random Survey

2008-04-29T11:01:00.000-04:00

Where is your cell phone? In my desk. Can't really talk on it when I have 25 students to take care of! :)

Your significant other? Non existent...although sometimes I wonder who my future hubby is and what he is doing now. I know I'm kinda weird.

Your hair? Brown with a hint of reddish. Don't know where it came from but recently it has shown up. Also SHORT! I just cut it and don't know if I like it.

Your mother? Has a servant's heart,Godly woman, fun, and joyful.

Your father? Provider, funny, hard worker, loving, and intelligent.

Your favorite thing? Sleep and being with the people I love.

Your dream last night? A crazy one about a student of mine.

Your favorite drink? Dr. Pepper

Your dream/goal? To impact eternity with my life.

The room you are in? My classroom...and it is silent!! (The students are at related arts!!)

Your ex? Pray for him daily.

Your fear? Losing someone I love...failing.

Where do you want to be in 6 years? where God wants me

Where were you last night? Walmart...then my apartment.

What you are not? merciful...I'm workin on it.

Muffins? Only Mug-N-Muffin! They are truly amazing there. Probably b/c the HANDFUL of sugar that tops each one. Awesome, just adds to my muffin top.

One of your wish list items? A sidekick, or a house...either will be fine. Ha!

Where you grew up? Herndon, VA...miss it!

The last thing you did? Took my class to Music.

What are you wearing? A orange wrap top, brown skirt, and brown sandals.

Your TV? Off.

Your pets? Don't have any. Although I want a puppy eventually, right now I don't want the responsibility and don't have the finances to have one either.

Your computer? Dell Inspiron(spelling) Laptop...love it, although I have been eying Amy's IMAC

Your life? Blessed

Your mood? Good...normal.

Missing someone? Yes.

Your car? Nissan Altima

Something you are not wearing? A necklace

Favorite store? TARGET for anything and everything...but clothes I would say White House Black Market.

Your summer? soooo soon! Will be full of weddings and relaxing at mom and dad's lake house. I will also be going to the Dominican!

Like someone? Not really...I'm content.

Your favorite color? purple

When is the last time you laughed? Last night when I saw my old friend Willie.

Last time you cried? Hmmm hasn't been recently. What a difference a year makes! :)

Who will repost this? Charlotte and Julie if they have time...busy moms! Katie will eventually, just not anytime soon. Anyone else who wants to please let me know if you do and I will read yours when I have time.

Lots of Love
xoxo

In awe...

2008-04-27T22:56:00.000-04:00

Over the mountains and the sea
Your river runs with love for me
And I will open up my heart
And let the Healer set me free

I’m happy to be in the truth
And I will daily lift my hands
For I will always sing of when Your love came down

I could sing of your love forever

Oh I feel like dancing
It’s foolishness I know
But when the world has seen the Light
They will dance with joy like we’re dancing now

Pictures as promised...

2008-04-25T21:40:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics of the last three weekends...I had so much fun traveling to NYC, DC, and Athens...I went up to NY for one of my bestest's bridal shower, then the next weekend was NOVA to throw my sissy Amy a bridal shower, and finally a girls' weekend in Athens. I am so thankful to have such amazing family and friends I love them to death and don't know what I would do without them!

xoxo

Amy's Bridal Shower in NOVA

Alex's Briday Shower in NY

Me and my girls in Athens

Welcome Sarah!

2008-04-15T06:52:00.000-04:00

I am not an aunt for the 6th time! Adam and Charlotte had their precious little girl yesterday around 1:30. Her name is Sarah Jane and she is so cute. Emma, Andrew, and Laura are going to be great big siblings! Here are some pics...

Adam and Charlotte with their little one!

The kiddos are so proud of Sarah!

Sarah Jane!

Coloring his ear maybe?!

2008-04-09T14:20:00.001-04:00

My day started with a student putting a crayon in his ear. Yes you read that correctly. Who does that? Well apparently my students do...and to make it that much better of a story (sad to say this is all true) what happened when my darling boy put it in his ear? Well it broke of course. I am talking about a good 2 cm of crayon way deep in his ear. He was crying because he didn't want to admit what he did. I think when he said it to himself he realized how dumb that idea was. Anyways I welcomed the nurse at 7:30 AM with him by my side. She and I were totally baffled by how it got there and how deep it was. She assured me she would take care of him and I went back to the classroom (don't worry my students weren't there yet...I"M NOT THAT DUMB AND NAIVE!)

One of the worst parts of the story was...it was a NEW and SHARP crayon!!!! LOL

Mimosa Cupcakes...YUMMY!

2008-04-09T14:17:00.000-04:00

I am becoming a HUGE fan of brunch! Mimosas are a tasty little drink that goes perfect with my omlette. I haven't tried these yet, but they sound yummy. Now if I only had an occasion to make them for...maybe Amy's bridal shower this Saturday...although it's at 2, a little late for mimosas.

Here's the recipe...

Mimosa Cupcake Recipe

I got the mimosa cupcake recipe by making a VERY subtle modification to a recipe for cherry limeade cupcakes on Ooh You Tasty Little Things. The only change I made was to substitute orange concentrate for the limeade concentrate. I'd been wanting to try baking using a frozen concentrate for a while and was happy to find a good recipe.

3 cups cake flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup + 2 tbsp frozen orange concentrate
3 eggs
3/4 cup plain yogurt

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix together the flour, salt, baking soda and powder and set aside. In a medium sized bowl, cream the butter until smooth then add the sugar and cream together. Once the butter and sugar are creamed add in the orange juice concentrate. Mix in one egg at a time. Add in flour mixture 1/3 at a time. When flour is thoroughly mixed, mix in the yogurt. Batter will be slightly lumpy, but should be smooth kind of like pancake batter. Divide the batter evenly into lined cupcake tins and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Allow to cool.

Champagne Syrup

2 cups champagne
1 cup powdered sugar
Bring the champagne and powdered sugar to a boil and let them reduce about half way. Don't expect it to get thick. It will still be very liquidy when you are done. Poke holes in the cupcakes and drizzle in the syrup. Let it absorb into the cupcake and add more. Keep adding to taste.

Champagne Frosting

The problem with champagne frosting is that you have to add way too much champagne in order to get a strong champagne flavor. This ends up making your frosting runny. The last time I used champagne, I opted for a champagne glaze. This time I decided to go the artificial [insert gasp here] champagne flavor route.

1 cup chilled whipping cream
8 oz mascarpone
2 to 3 cups confectioner's sugar (depending upon how thick you prefer frosting)
8 drops of champagne flavor (use an eye dropper)
Whip up whipping cream in mixer until soft peaks begin to form. Fold in mascarpone. Then, while mixing over low speed, slowly add the confectioner's sugar one cup at a time, being careful not to over whip frosting. Mix in the champagne flavor.

I Love NY

2008-04-07T14:42:00.000-04:00

I went back up to NY this past weekend for one of my bestest's wedding shower. I flew in Thursday night and was met with frigid cold weather. While flying in I was a little bummed, I was on the wrong side of the plane to see the city skyline and some foreigners were blocking their window with their big heads. I guess it was better they saw it since they don't live here. Anyways...Alex picked me up. It was so good to see her. She was my roommate freshman and sophomore year. We have been through it all for each other. I hadn't seen her in about 2 years...and nothing has changed. She is hilarious and a LI girl to the core. I miss her already!

On Friday we went to the mall!!! I spent money I shouldn't be, but got a really cute jacket and some sweet pumas. We then went into the city for some drinks and a show. We saw Avenue Q...not something I would have picked but really funny. It is kind of like Sesame Street for adults, liberal adults...also known as New Yorkers. Anyways we went to the show and then walked around a bit. I am always amazed at NYC...no matter what time of the day you will always find such a random group of people packed on the streets. I have to admit I felt like a tourist again.

Saturday was filled with getting ready for the shower. Nails, tans, the whole nine yards. I was shocked to find out in NY people don't give wedding gifts, they give money. No wonder why the divorce rate is 59%, or so I was told by a marriage counselor I met at the shower. Who wouldn't get divorced for a chance at more cash...that might just be the next sick American reality game show. Saturday night we went to Alex's fiance, Johnny's, friend's house (wow that was confusing for me to write, even as a teacher). We drank some wine and watched some bball. The other girls there were total NY...to a T. Just like you see in the movies, I had to laugh. And was a bit sad when they told me I had a cute SOUTHERN accent...what?! I'm not southern!

We went home early for various reasons and got a good night sleep. The shower was at 12:30 but we had to be there to set up at 11:30. Al's sister and I went to the store to get some last minute things (another bridesmaid couldn't come so we had to get her prizes) We got all cute in our summer dresses even though the weather was freezing...but hey we were going to be inside.

The shower was awesome. I am so happy for Al...she is just so excited. It is so great to see her so happy. The shower was really nice, it was like a mini wedding with just girls. We had a 4 course meal, games, gifts, an amazing dessert, and lots of fun with some old friends. I love New Yorkers for the things they say, outfits they wear, and the pride they have in their home. Anyways...I have lots more to write but need to get going. I will try to post pics later.

xoxo

Things I Never Want to Hear from a Student

2008-04-07T14:41:00.000-04:00

"Ms. Scott my momma had my baby sister in the back of our car."

Hmmmmmmmmmm

Scary!

2008-04-03T08:59:00.000-04:00

A colleague of mine sent this to me yesterday morning. It is so scary, especially being a teacher. The world we live in breaks my heart. I remember being in third grade and my worst thought was nailing some boy with a kickball at recess when he was trying to steal home. It's sad what our children have to access to and that their little minds take in...

Georgia 3rd-graders plotted attack on teacher, brought knife, handcuffs to school
By Russ Bynum

Associated Press
Article Launched: 04/02/2008 07:05:22 AM PDT

WAYCROSS, Ga. - A group of children ages 8 to 10 apparently were mad at their teacher because she had scolded one of them for standing on a chair, authorities say.
That led the third-graders, as many as nine boys and girls, to plot an attack on the teacher at Center Elementary School in south Georgia.

Police Chief Tony Tanner said the students apparently planned to knock the teacher unconscious with a glass paperweight, bind her with handcuffs and duct tape and then stab her with a broken steak knife.

The scheme involved a division of roles, Tanner said. One child's job was to cover windows so no one could see outside, and another was supposed to clean up after the attack.

"We're not sure at this point in the investigation how many of the students actually knew the intent was to hurt the teacher," Tanner said.

School officials had alerted police Friday after a pupil tipped off a teacher that a girl had taken a weapon to school.

Tanner said the teacher told detectives the children weren't known as troublemakers.

"You can't dismiss it," Tanner said. "But because they are kids, they may have thought this was like a cartoon - we do whatever and then she stands up and she's OK. That's a hard call."

The purported target teaches third-grade students with learning disabilities, including attention deficit disorder, delayed development and hyperactivity, friends and parents said.

Two of the students were arrested on juvenile charges Tuesday and a third arrest was expected. District Attorney Rick Currie said other students told investigators they didn't take the plot seriously or insisted they had decided not to participate.
"Some of the kids said, 'We thought they were just kidding,"' Currie said. "Another child was supposed to bring a toy pistol, and he told a detective he didn't bring it because he thought he would get in trouble."

Currie said the children are too young to be charged as adults, and probably too young to be sentenced to a youth detention center.

"We did not hear anybody say they intended to kill her, but could they have accidentally killed her? Absolutely," Tanner said. "We feel like if they weren't interrupted, there would have been an attempt. Would they have been successful? We don't know."

Currie said he decided to seek juvenile charges against two girls, ages 9 and 10, who brought the knife and paperweight and an 8-year-old boy who brought tape. He said they face charges of conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, and both girls are being charged with taking weapons to school.

Nine children have been given discipline up to and including long-term suspension, said Theresa Martin, spokeswoman for the Ware County school system. She would not be more specific but said none of the children had been back to school since the case came to light.

School system policy says any student who brings "anything reasonably considered to be a weapon" is to be expelled for at least the remainder of the school year.

Easter!

2008-03-23T18:07:00.000-04:00

This Easter started early with the kiddos waking me up to search for eggs that the Easter bunny left. Beckham and Ainsley were SO EXCITED to search Grammy and Poppy's house for all the eggs the Easter bunny left. They quickly found all the eggs and got right into the candy...forget the fact that it was 7:45! Kids after my own heart! Here are some pics of them searching.

Dying eggs on Saturday!

Beckham showing his muscles while dying Easter eggs!

Searching for eggs filled with CANDY! What could be a better start to the day?!?!

After we searched for Easter eggs we all went to Gville to go to my church. I got baptized! It was an amazing experience. I am so happy I decided to do it and also that most of my family could be there for it! I didn't realize it was going to be Easter Sunday when I signed up, but God worked it out so my family could be there and also this will make all the future Easters even more special! I am so thankful for everything God has done in my life. I honestly don't know where I would be withouth Him in my life. I can't put into words how blessed I feel to be a daughter of the King and get the opportunity to live for Him. I know I am not perfect, but that's the beauty of it...I don't have to be! He died and rose for me ...my past, present, and future sins. Nothing I can do will make Him love me more or less. Thinking about it is pretty unbelievable. God is so sovereign and loving I am so thankful for his mercy and grace! Anyways...Here is a pic of me getting baptized.

Have a blessed day! He has risen!

Lucky Leprechaun!

2008-03-23T18:00:00.001-04:00

I met a real life leprechaun over the weekend...he was too cute!

I loved his little shoes.

Engagement Dinner

2008-03-23T17:49:00.000-04:00

This weekend was a busy weekend. Amy, David, Julie, Monte, Beckham, and Ainsley all came down to mom and dad's. We had an engagement dinner (a little delayed) with everyone and also had David's mom and some of her family. It was a lot of fun. It is so great to see Amy and him so happy!

Mom being mom thought of a game we could play. She had everyone write down questions to ask the soon to be Mr. and Mrs. Campbell. Some of the questions were rather comical..."what are you going to name your first five kids?" or some more serious (dad)..."who is going to handle the finances?". They opened some presents and we ate LOTS of GREAT food. All in all it was a great night. We missed the rest of the fam...Katie and Adam's fam!

Here are some pics from the night.

How cute!

The cake mom made...you can't really see it that well...but it was AWESOME! Butter cream frosting...need I say more?

Donors Choose

2008-02-26T13:10:00.001-05:00

I have just posted a grant at

http://www.donorschoose.org/donors/proposal.html?id=162971

Please go there or spread the word. It would be awesome if I could get this thing funded. Pass it along to your friends, every dollar counts!

Thanks
xoxo

You can find me in the A

2008-02-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I was A-Town Down bound. I love Atlanta and am always down for going, espcecially for this girl...

It was Katie's 25th birthday and she was doin it big! She planned for a night of fun. We were going to dinner, then playing Whirley ball, then going out. She started talking trash about Whirly ball weeks in advance. So I got out of school and got in my car. Picked up Zo from Athens and we were on our way. It was fun catching up with her (she's way smarter than me and getting her PhD @ UGA) and just having fun.

We got to Katie's APT in Buckhead and immediately went to a fun mexican resturant and got some margaritas. After I ordered I remembered I don't like margaritas unless they are strawberry and I forgot to tell him that. So I had to drink my salty gross regular margarita (which didn't look as good as the below picture) But I did have some tacos that were off the chain! Then as we are eating the mexican music in the background sounded strangely familar...it was "I Will Survive" but in spanish. I was so proud of myself for recognizing it and asked thebus boy if I was right. I simply wanted a yes but the poor guy said "no speaka englissss" and called a friend over. His friend was very excited I recognized this...or he was really bored and wanted to talk for 10 minutes about some spanish chic that sings the song. Either way I felt culturally experienced. We finished up our drinks and food and were out...

I was in the car with Katie (birthday girl), Zo (Lauren), Rhinata and Stephanie (two of Katie's other friends)...we were all talking trash the whole way to the spot. We arrived at the stadium (slight exaggeration) for Whirly Ball. For those of you who don't know what whirly Ball is you need to get a clue...just kidding. It is kind of like bball except 1) you are driving a bumper car and 2) you have lacrosse like baskets to catch and throw the wiffle ball. The tricky part is the cars drive in the opposite way you turn them. For example I want to get the ball to the left so I naturally turn the steering nob to the left...WRONG...I immediately turn right and miss the freaking ball.

Anyways...There were about 25 of us all together. Us bball girls are pretty competitive and immediately boxed people out so we could get in the first game. Let me just say I was pretty good...well that was the first game. The next game, and car, was a different story. When I realized my little car wasn't going to make it to the ball in time I just began my strategy of nailing people and setting "picks" (which I don't think were legal)...we played for 2 hours! So much fun and so much pain. I knew I was going to be sore from all the illegal ramming. We went back to Katie's APT and changes quickly for a night out at Sutra.

Only Zo, Katie, and I made it out...once again FU bball in full effect. We decided to go to Sutra. After Rhinata dropped us off we saw the line was like 40 people deep. Ummm no that isn't going to work. Katie asked the bouncer if we could get in for her birthday...so we cut the line and the cover and made our way in. Sutra was lots of fun...reminded me of when I was college. I felt so old as I judged ...I mean watched the drunk girls try to impress the nasty men with their dancing. LOL I had fun dancing...us girls were like bodygaurds for eachother.

We finally made it home around 4 AM and then talked for a lot longer. I was awakened by sweet Julie calling to tell me Joe's aircraft had crashed and checking to see if it was his plane or not. I got up and emailed him ASAP...he wrote back to let me know he was okay. Thank God it wasn't him, but now they don't know when they will be returning from deployment. After laying around for some time we decided we should go eat. We went to Murphy's in Midtown. It was the BEST breakfast I have had out in way too long. Although I felt like WT (white trash) while eating there...I thought we would just go the normal after-going-out-spots where we wear a hoodie and some jeans. So I did...ummm no. I was caught in The Real Housewives of OC or whatever that show with people that have way too much money is. I don't care though...it was good and I had fun laughing with my girls. I am so thankful for all my bball girls. We have all remained so close and always have fun together no matter what.

We stopped by Marci's, an old friend of Zo and Katie's, to say hey. Marci and her sister live together. They are about the same ages of Katie and I. They have so much fun living together and sharing clothes, etc. I called my only single sis and said we need to live together. She needs to move her butt down to the A and I will and we could have tons of fun. I knew living with my sis is fun b/c of this summer with JB, so I want to do it again but not invade on a young family...so Katie is my chance :) How fun would that be...two Scott girls living together when we are old enough to appreciate each other (not just divide everything down the center with an imaginary line).

Okay this post went on way longer than I thought...have a blessed day. And if you can't tell I was experimenting how to put pics in...I wish I was at home and had the actual pics from the weekend...but that will come later. And can someone that is Blogger saavy please tell me how to link things. I would try to figure it out but don't have the time...

xoxo

JB's birthday

2008-02-18T11:08:00.000-05:00

I went up to Charlotte for JB's birthday. I finally got my pictures on my computer. Sorry for the delay. We had lots of fun. I love them being so close so I get to see them as much as I can. Here are some pics from the weekend.

Baba and me!

Monte and Beckham at Latitude 81...yummy!

JB and her adorable kiddos and I can't forget the buttercream frosting!

Neecee waiting patiently for cake...

it was worth the wait!!

Not too happy with me

2008-02-11T09:58:00.000-05:00

On Friday I had a student that was not writing during Writing Workshop. I had him sit out recess and write. I was impressed with the final product...maybe I should sit kids out more often. lol. This is what he wrote...keep in mind he is in 3rd grade!

Today I am Sitting Out at Recess
It isn't any fun
I feel like a bum
The other kids are playing
While I'm stuck here writing
I'm not having any fun
I'm just sitting in the sun
I'd rather be in the lion's den
getting chewed until I'm thin
I'd rather get swallowed whole by a bear
of even have blonde hair
I'd rather fall from Mount Everest
or get baked in a volcano
All I know is I don't like sitting out
It makes me want to shout
Next time when Ms. Scott tells us to write
I will do it with all my might

New Knee

2008-02-08T20:13:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all those who prayed for dad's knee replacement surgery. It went well. I went to see him in the hospital today. He was in good spirits...thanks to the drugs. The doctor said my dad had a really big knee. Dad seemed to be proud that he got the "biggest size" knee.

Mom was surprised he was joking so much. His reply was "What you thought they would take me wonderful sense of humor with me knee?" (something like that...I don't remember the exact words b/c I was nauseated from the blood bag! Anyways please remember dad in your prayers. For a quick and the least painful recovery.

Here is a picture just to show how dad's sense of humor he was talking about. And yes he was just doing this on his own without encouragement!

Thanks!
xoxo

Got some free time?

2008-02-05T10:48:00.000-05:00

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE ?
Not my first name...but my middle was my grandmother's maiden name. Holbrook. I think I'm going to name my daugher that too.

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
In church on Sunday...during worship.

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
When I take my time. I should have better being that I am an elementary school teacher.

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Bacon! Does that count?

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
I have 25 of them... :)

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
For sure!

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT?
No not at all...(you get it)

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yes.

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
I think I would rather sky dive

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Anything Captian Crunch...yum

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
Depends on how tight I tie them...most the time no.

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
Physically-used to be...workin on it
Emotionally-a lot more than I was... :)
Spiritually-workin on that everyday! and thankful for the chance to grow

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Peanut Butter and Chocolate from Baskin Robins by far...from the store I love Birthday Cake!

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
Eyes and smile...maybe height

15. RED OR PINK?
Depends what it is...probably pink

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF?
How hard I am on myself

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
All my family that isn't close and my old friends that aren't close

18. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
Navy blue pants and white socks...yep I am doin it Michael Jackson stlye

19. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE?
Eggs

20. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
Silence...ahhh! My students are at related arts.

21. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
unmellow yellow...just b/c I like the name

22. FAVORITE SMELLS?
Aqua Di Gio cologne...love it!

23. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Rodney

24. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
College basketball

5. HAIR COLOR?
Brown

26. EYE COLOR?
Brownish hazel

27. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
yes
28. FAVORITE FOOD? ice cream or italian

29. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
I'm a baby...I don't like scary movies

30. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Waitress

31. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
White
32. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Summer, definitely!

33. HUGS OR KISSES?
Hugs is the safer answer :)

34. FAVORITE DESSERT?
Buttercream icing and also I love Molten brownies my mama makes.

35. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? The Swan House...so good!

36. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
My HS field hockey team...lol

37. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT?
Nothing... :)

38. FAVORITE SOUNDS?
Kids laughing

39. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
Beatles

40. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?
Alaska

41. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
Two of my toes are double jointed :)

42. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Jacksonville, FL

I would tag people but don't know how...so if you want to do it just do it and let me know so I can read yours!

xoxo

"I'm wasn't fat! "

2008-02-05T10:38:00.001-05:00

Today in class we were working on creating timelines of the students' lives. I was working with one of my precious angels trying to help him draw himself when he was born...otherwise known as a baby. I was helping and all of a sudden he is crying and yelling "NO!!" I don't know why he is crying so in my most sympathetic voice I could find I ask him what is the matter. He says, "You made me fat, I wasn't fat when I was a baby!" And he was dead serious!

I tried so hard not to laugh, but looking at my drawing of a baby in a blanket I had to because it was pretty pathetic and I guess he was right, the baby was on the hefty side. Of course me laughing opened up another can of worms because he thought I was laughing at him. I had to explain to him I was laughing at my drawing and how bad it was.

I am considering writing a book of what comes out of the mouths of my babes.

2008-02-04T10:46:00.000-05:00

So I guess this survey is pretty right on...although some days I think otherwise when my little angels aren't being so angelic!

You Should Be a Teacher

You are patient, optimistic, and good at explaining things.
You work well with all types of people, and you are a good role model.
Success and positive outcomes are extremely important to you.
You are both a good leader and instructor. People look up to and depend on you.

You do best when you:

- Can see the results of your work
- Are able to teach someone a new skill

You would also be a good nurse or non fiction writer.

What Should You Be When You Grow Up?

My second choice was this...also pretty accurate

You Should Be an Artist

You are incredibly creative, spontaneous, and unique.
No one can guess what you're going to do next, but it's usually something amazing.
You can't deal with routine, rules, or structure. You're easily bored.
As long as you are able to innovate and break the rules, you are extremely successful.

You do best when you:

- Can work by yourself
- Can express your personality in your work

You would also be a good journalist or actor.

What Should You Be When You Grow Up?

Youth Basketball

2008-02-02T12:56:00.000-05:00

This morning I went to one of my old student's basketball games. She is now in the fourth grade and is precious. I got there and she came running over and gave me a hug. The game proceeded to start...she was very intense! She was scrappy as can be. Her team ended up losing 6-5. Yes I said 6-5! They were all so adorable playing magnet ball. She was upset, but got over it quick.

It just reminded me of the younger days. I still vividly remember playing on the "Hot Shots" or the "Waveslammers". I think in my memory I was better than everyone...lol. Now thinking about it I'm sure that wasn't the case.

It was a fun to have old memories brought back to my mind. Maybe next year I will coach a team...

4 Things

2008-01-29T07:50:00.001-05:00

4 Things about me...

Four jobs I have had
1. lifeguard
2. basketball camp counselor
3. waitress
4. babysitter

Four places I have lived
1. Northern Virginia
2. Long Island
3. South Carolina
4. Florida

Four movies I have watched over and over
1. Dirty Dancing
2. Love and Basketball
3. My Best Friend't Wedding
4. Any Disney movie

Four shows I watch
1. Grey's Anatomy
2. SATC
3. Biggest Loser
4. Oprah

Four places I have been
1. Alaska
2. San Diego
3. Nebraska
4. Carribean

Four favorite things to eat
1. ice cream
2. steak
3. panang curry (Thaicoon)
4. watermelon

Four places I would rather be
1. Europe
2. Caribbean
3. my parents' house
4. anywhere warm

Four things I look forward to this new year
1. SUMMER! lol
2. Amy and David's, Alex and Johnny's, and other weddings
3. SUMMER
4. new experiences and building relationships

If you want to do this consider yourself tagged.

2008-01-22T14:08:00.000-05:00

Psalm 103

Of David.

Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
he LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
his deeds to the people of Israel:
he LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.
As for man, his days are like grass,
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children's children-
with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.
The LORD has established his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom rules over all.
Praise the LORD, you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his bidding,
who obey his word.
Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,
you his servants who do his will.
Praise the LORD, all his works
everywhere in his dominion.
Praise the LORD, O my soul.

The pastor at Julie's church mentioned Psalm 103 at the end of the sermon. He just focused on verses 1-5, but the whole thing is pretty awesome. It is truely amazing how great our God is. I know I don't deserve anything He gives me, but am truly thankful He is the God that He is. The bolded verses really spoke to me.

I stand in awe that the God of everything loves me. He deals with me. When I mess up he still loves me. When I piss him off he doesn't get angry but just the opposite, shows compassion! When I sin he separates my sin from me, as far as the east is from the west! That is crazy.

He is slow to anger and abounding in love. I am a teacher and I have a hard time forgetting when a student disobeys me during a lesson. It is humbling to see that the Lord of all creation has patience and understanding with me. Today right before I sat down to post a blog I was fumming. My students were on my nerves and I was about to lose it on them. Then I read this passage. God has a sense of humor. They are children just like I am God's child. I need to be patient and compassionate with them. I need to be slow to anger and abounding in love, following the example of my heavenly father. WOW! I'm glad I read this passage. I gotta go pick them up. I need to humble myself and apolgize for not being patient... Hope I didn't ramble too much.

The Ultimate Gift

2008-01-22T07:44:00.000-05:00

Mom and Dad gave all of us a book this Christmas. The book is The Ultimate Gift by Jim Stovall. The book is a great and easy read. One of the things in it is the Golden List. The man before he gets out of bed everyday makes a mental list of 10 things he is thankful for. I love this idea. It is so simple and a great way to start the day. He did it everyday of his life from the time someone taught it to him. I have started making my mental list. It has really opened my eyes and given me a different perspective. Here is my list for today:

1. One of my bestest friends in the world came up to Greenville yesterday for a random visit. I'm thankful for her friendship and her visit.
2. A great visit with the Watkins. (more on this in another post)
3. For waking me up this morning, my health and being able to see your creation.
4. My family.
5. Each and every one of my students' and the opportunity to change their lives.
6. A long talk with my old coaches.
7. My bed.
8. Ainsley and Beckham's laughs. They always make me smile.
9. My parent's being so close.
10. God's unfailing love and always being there for me when I continually mess up.

Playing Hostess...

2008-01-11T10:41:00.001-05:00

Last night I had some of my old "ed major" friends over for dinner. We hadn't all gotten together in a long time so I thought it would be fun. It was so much fun. I am getting into the whole cooking thing and have cooked every night this week! (Except Wednesday when I went to Laney's for Bible study and she cooked amazing crab pasta...yummy) Okay I guess I am starting to sound like a fat girl! Cooking my own food also has been saving me a lot of money, although it's hard to cook for just one, it is cheaper than going out.

I made the same Swiss Enchiladas I made from one time this fall when I had mama and daddy' over. They got rave reviews both times. Here is the recipe if anyone wants it. It's really easy and pretty healthy. I used already cooked chicken (the kind you can just throw on a salad).

Ingredients
Cooking spray
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
2 cups chopped roasted skinless, boneless chicken breast (about 2 breasts)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 (4.5-ounce) cans diced green chiles, undrained
1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 (8-inch) fat-free flour tortillas
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese, divided

Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add onion; cook 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in chicken, garlic, chiles, and tomatoes. Reduce heat, and simmer 7 minutes or until liquid evaporates. Set aside.

Combine milk and flour in a small saucepan over medium-high heat; cook 5 minutes or until mixture thickens, stirring constantly with a whisk. Stir in salt.

Warm tortillas according to package directions. Spoon about 1/2 cup chicken mixture and about 2 1/2 tablespoons cheese down center of each tortilla; roll up. Arrange filled tortillas in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Pour milk mixture over tortillas, and top evenly with remaining 1 cup cheese. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly. Remove from oven.

Preheat broiler.

Broil casserole for 3 minutes or until cheese begins to brown.

Yield
6 servings (serving size: 1 enchilada and about 1/3 cup sauce)

Nutritional Information
CALORIES 419(28% from fat); FAT 13.2g (sat 7.9g,mono 3.7g,poly 0.8g); PROTEIN 33.2g; CHOLESTEROL 79mg; CALCIUM 474mg; SODIUM 726mg; FIBER 4.3g; IRON 2.1mg; CARBOHYDRATE 41.8g

Diane Webber , Cooking Light, MAY 2006

I also made a cake for dessert. It was yummy. My roomie from last year made it a lot and I was always sneaking pieces of it. It's really easy to. I don't know the name for it though.

Ingredients

1 Yellow Cake Mix (along with the ingredients to make the cake)
1 package of Instant Vanilla pudding
1 container of 16 oz. Sour Cream
1 package of chocolate chips
1/2 bar of german chocolate (shaved)

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Follow the directions for making the cake. I cooked mine in a bunt pan ( I think that is what they are called...forgive me I am still learning to be the hostess :) ) It is great and you can also eat it for breakfast.

Enjoy! xoxo

Congratulations Lovebirds!

2008-01-07T08:24:00.000-05:00

My oldest sister, Amy, got engaged on Friday! I am so excited and happy for both of them. We are happy to add David to our family. He is a great guy and treats Amy like the Princess she is. I have never seen Amy this happy, it makes me smile so big! Here is a picture she sent me.

Corey Crowder Rocks!

2008-01-04T13:34:00.000-05:00

Last night I went with my good friend Laney to her husband's show. He performed at the Handlebar, a local place in Greenville where people play. I had heard Corey's old stuff, but he has been in the studio because he signed a record deal. Last night he performed his new stuff and I LOVED IT!! He is so good! It was cool to see how many people came out to see him. It has been fun to see how far he has come. I pray that he has a blessed career. He has such a good heart and is so down to earth, not to mention his wife is pretty cool too! :)

I am going to be that girl that plugs her friends, but I don't care because he is that good. If you get the chance go check him out at... http://www.myspace.com/coreycrowder or http://coreycrowder.johnttaylor.com/

Happy New Year!

2008-01-03T10:09:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and a Happy New Year. My break was amazing, didn't do anything crazy exciting, but just relaxed and spent lots of quality time with my family. Hopefully I will be able to write more about the break later, and put up some pics when I get them emailed to me (hint hint)

This year I am going to try a resolution. I never do them because I just think they end up not being done. This year I just picked two. Be healthy and be in the word more. I think I can do those...they should be attainable, right? I hope. So far I have done pretty well. How about everyone else...what are your resolutions?

xoxo

Weekends..

2007-12-11T19:55:00.000-05:00

The past couple weekends I have been traveling...it is nice to get away from here and take a break. Here are some pictures from the weekends...

I went a little north of Charlotte to see my old Hofstra teammates. It has been way too long. Joy, me, and Billi...love these girls!

Dad, Mom, and I went to Kim's wedding back in NoVa. It was a lot of fun and good to be home (even though it wasn't even for 24 hours!)

Christmas Survey

2007-12-07T13:00:00.001-05:00

Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? wrapping paper

2. Real tree or Artificial? real...of course, except in my little apartment I just have a mini artificial tree.

3. When do you put up the tree? after Thanksgiving

4. When do you take the tree down? after Christmas I guess...

5. Do you like egg nog? nope...don't think I h ave ever had it

6. Favorite gift received as a child? my karaoke radio (that was big before all these fancy ones...lol), my animal families, and probably my bike.

8. Hardest person to buy for? mom and dad

9. Easiest person to buy for? siblings

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? don't do them yet..but when I have a family I want to mail them...nothing beats getting mail :)

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? ummm...I'm not going to call anyone out on this one...but I'm sure it is something an older relative gave to me :)

12. Favorite Christmas movie? Christmas Vacation by far...I do also love Elf

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? December...if I'm good early, if I am slacking up until Christmas Eve

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Nope! I keep everything I get!

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? cookies...I'm a Scott girl

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear = classy

17. Favorite Christmas song? I love them all, but my favorite religious one is "Mary Did You Know?" and for fun I love "All I want for Christmas is You" Mariah Carey

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? stay home...used to be play basketball but now my playing days are over so I get to go home to see my family! :)

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Commet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, Prancer, Dancer, ... Rudolph...I tried...

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? one on Christmas Eve and then the rest in the morning

22 . Most annoying thing about this time of year? my students...I'm about to call Santa and have him put them on the NAUGHTY list!

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I love the ones my mom gave me...the little Eskimo girl and her seal.

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? rice a roni...lol just kidding. I love all the foods my mama cooks. I also love the Eggs Benedict my dad makes Christmas morning (now that we are all older and don't knock each other over for presents we can sit and have a relaxing Christmas breakfast)

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? YOU!

Schools without our Savior

2007-11-27T13:03:00.000-05:00

This year has been tough for me as far as seeing the things my students have been getting into, doing, saying, etc. I feel a bit cynical and jaded thinking things will just get worse. Then I found this and realized why so many students, schools, teachers, etc have so many problems. We took God out of schools. Just some food for thought!

xoxo

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T20:31:00.000-05:00

The first Thanksgiving at His Way Inn was a success. We had so much fun preparing, eating, and being together. In total there were 17 people here. It was great to hang out with everyone. We ended up having two tables, using Grandma Jean's table for one. :)

I have so much to be thankful for. God has truely blessed me with more than I deserve. I am so thankful for my family, all my friends, and of course God. I am especially thankful for my family. Teaching has opened my eyes to the reality that not all families are as close as mine. My parents are amazing and truely have done everything imaginable for all of us. I don't know where I would be without them. Also I am thankful for my amazing friends. My friends are so supportive and always there for me when I need them. God continues to bless me even though I am not deserving in the least bit. Thank you Lord for your mercy and grace.

I can't forget our military...Thank you to all the armed forces serving our country. Without you we wouldn't have this country. I was in my dad's study and saw a quote that is great..."Life has a certain flair for those who have fought for it". I know I haven't fought for it, but my dad, brother, and some close friends have. Thank you!

Here are some pictures from today...

Let's Say Thanks

2007-11-16T13:44:00.000-05:00

Something cool that Xerox is doing

If you go to this web site, www.LetsSayThanks.com you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq . You can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services.

How AMAZING it would be if we could get everyone we know to send one!!! This is a great site. Please send a card. It is FREE and it only takes a second.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if the soldiers received a bunch of these? Whether you are for or against the war, our guys and gals over there need to know we are behind them...

2007-11-12T14:12:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all the Veterans whose bravery and sacrafices make this country great!

Go Navy!

2007-11-07T10:30:00.000-05:00

My good friend Robert sent this article to me.

Miracle on Turf

By John Feinstein

Monday, November 5, 2007; Page A19

When the U.S. Olympic hockey team defeated the seemingly unbeatable Soviet Union in Lake Placid in 1980 en route to the gold medal, it was hailed as the most stunning upset in sports history.

It may be difficult for an outsider to understand, but the Navy football team's 46-44 triple-overtime victory over Notre Dame on Saturday may rank, at the very least, a close second to that storied miracle on ice. This was a miracle on turf. Notre Dame had beaten Navy 43 straight times, dating back to 1963 when Roger Staubach was Navy's quarterback and officers in the military made salaries comparable to those of players in the National Football League.

It was before Vietnam, before Iraq, before any high school athlete who had any notion that he could play in the NFL someday ran screaming from the room at the thought of attending a college with a five-year post-graduate military commitment. It was, in short, a very different world.

Skeptics will point out that this is a bad (now 1-8) Notre Dame team. It doesn't matter. Every Notre Dame team should dominate Navy on the football field. At one point during the game, NBC -- also known as the Notre Dame Broadcasting Co. because it pays the school millions of dollars a year to televise all its home games -- did a promo for a high school All-Star game it televises in January. Only the country's top-rated high school seniors are invited to play.

"Twenty-one of the current Irish players have played in that game in past years," NBC play-by-play announcer Tom Hammond said.

That would be exactly 21 more than are currently playing at Navy. Or, as Hammond 's partner Pat Haden pointed out: "With all due respect, Navy doesn't get to recruit blue-chip football players."

Just blue-chip people.

Navy's first touchdown on Saturday was scored by Zerbin Singleton, an aerospace engineering major with a 3.14 grade point average who hopes to be an astronaut. As an 11-year-old, Singleton watched as a bounty hunter shot and arrested his mother. He was accepted at the Naval Academy as a high school senior, but he could not report for plebe summer after he was injured when a car he was in was hit by a drunk driver. He tried to join the football team at Georgia Tech but was told, "Don't waste our time, kid, you're too small." He re-applied to Navy, was accepted, then had to deal with the suicide of his father during his freshman year.

Of course at 5-foot-8 and 174 pounds, Singleton is bigger than Reggie Campbell, the 5-foot-6-inch, 168-pound offensive captain who scored the winning points on Saturday.

Notre Dame has every advantage a football power can possibly have: an 80,000-seat stadium; its own TV network; arguably the greatest tradition in college football history ("win one for the Gipper," Knute Rockne, Touchdown Jesus, the fight song); more money than it knows what to do with; and a great academic reputation.

What does Navy sell to recruits? The chance to play against Notre Dame.

Or maybe it's the chance to wake up at 6 o'clock every morning; the chance to be screamed at by upperclassmen; the chance to lose your weekend liberty for carrying a book-bag improperly or for being 30 seconds late to class. Not to mention the chance to get shot at when you graduate.

The players Coach Paul Johnson recruits are frequently like Campbell and Singleton: too small for big-time programs like Notre Dame to bother with; tough kids who love a challenge and love proving they can do things that "can't" be done.

Like beating Notre Dame in Notre Dame Stadium.

The best description I ever heard of what it is like to play football at Navy, Army and Air Force came from Fred Goldsmith, who coached at Air Force: "At a civilian school the hardest part of a football player's day is football practice," he said. "At an academy, the easiest part of a football player's day is football practice."

Navy can't possibly beat Notre Dame. Except on Saturday a group of youngsters who were too small or too slow (or both) to play big-time college football did just that.

With all due respect to Notre Dame and all its blue-chip players, Navy's celebration should be our celebration.

John Feinstein is the author of "A Civil War: A Year Inside Army vs. Navy, College Football's Purest Rivalry." He has been a commentator for the Navy football radio network for 11 years.

Single, solo, una...

2007-10-03T14:17:00.000-04:00

After a lot of prayer and time with God I have realized that for so long I have always felt the need to be with someone. God was gracious enough to get me out of the relationship with PJ, allowing me to once again draw near to Him. Although I have a lot more work to do I feel like I am walking much stronger with the Lord.

I was doing quiet time one day last week and God spoke to me clearly..."Megan why can't you be happy with just me?" I didn't want to hear it, or was pushing it away, but after being honest I realized God was right (big surprise, right?!) I have always had a guy in my life that I trust with everything and go to for problems. Why have I been so blind and dumb to realize that God needs to be the man in my life that I take everything to. Unlike guys here on Earth my God will never fail me...NEVER!! Isn't that amazing?!? I am still overwhelmed thinking about that...I have been let down so many times in my life (as I'm sure others have to) that it is hard to believe I can count on Him for everything...so that is what I am learning to do...and God put it on my heart that would be a lot easier to do if there wasn't another guy in my life to take attention away from Him.

So I made a promise to myself that I won't go on any dates or be in any relationships until the new year. I think it will be good...will I get lonely...sure...but I think that will be the time when I cling even tighter to my heavenly hero.

Just wanted you to know...so everyone can stop asking who I'm dating...lol

XOXO
Meg

Isaac...

2007-09-20T14:48:00.000-04:00

I'm sure most of you know I have been teaching a student homebound. This means that I teach him at home for the school year. His name is Isaac and he is adorable. He has found a special place in my heart. He is getting homebound teaching because this summer a 40 pound cast iron bell fell on his head. It is a long story, but the medical attention was neglegent and left him paralyzed on his left side. He is doing a lot better, but still has a long way to go. I love going to his house because he always has a smile on his face.

Last night I was thinking about him while I was driving home from a session, I don't know why God put me in his and his family's life, but I really want to show God's love to them. They are struggling big time now and have to deal with the stress and trauma his accident has brought on. So please keep little Isaac and his family in your prayers. I don't have children, but I can only imagine what his parents are going through watching thier son do things for the first time...again. They are glad to have him here still, but as his mom says he's not the same Isaac.

So take a second and thank God for how blessed we are to be healthy and alive each day. Have a great day!

Gone, but not forgotten

2007-09-11T10:25:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that 6 years ago today our world as we knew it was changed forever. I still remember exactly where I was when I heard about the Twin Towers being hit. I was up at Hofstra, my freshman year, and had only been there for five days or so. I was in my psychology class. A kid came in and asked if I had heard about the Towers being hit? Not being from NY(and not thinking before I talked) said no I didn't see it on my way to class. (I thought it was the towers that were dorms, I walked by them on my way to the class I had before). Needless to say he looked at me like I was an idiot, but was still rather kind and told me he was talking about the Twin Towers in NYC. I still had no clue how big of a disaster this really was. Our professor let us out early and then I realized the multitude of this crash. Everyone on campus was going crazy, Hofstra being on Long Island a lot of the students were from NY. I had a billion messages on my voicemail. A lot of people from home were calling to make sure I was okay. I couldn't call out because all the phone lines were busy. It was very scary and sad. Do you remember where you were when September 11th happened? Please write I would love to hear.

It's crazy because I am still very emotional about September 11th. I saw so many people and New Yorkers come together for the sake of each other. It was amazing and the terrorists did not accomplish whatever they wanted to, in fact I think they caused the opposite. Our nation came together in a way that was inspiring and touching. I pray for the families that lost loved ones. I pray we as a country do not forget how strong we are when we come together. I pray that we will never forget this tragic event and the heroes that lost their lives in bravery. I pray for our troops that are still serving overseas and here in the US, I pray for their safety and thank God for their unselfishness and commitment to our country. Please take a few moments today to thank God for your freedom and pray for the families that are still suffering at the loss of their loved ones.

Today I taught a lesson about September 11th...it was so crazy, while planning it I realized my students would only have been either 1 or 2 when it happened. None of them had any idea what had happened. I am thankful they didn't have to experience it, but it made me sad because they didn't know how strong our country was during a time. I showed them some pictures and read a book about September 11th. They were full of questions. My favorite was little boy in my class...someone asked "Why would anyone do that?" and he quickly answered "Those people were crazy!!! You have to be to fly a plane into a building!!" I had to laugh because honestly I couldn't have said it better myself. After we talked I had the students write thank you notes to either police officers, firefighters, or soldiers. Their letters were so cute. Here are some of the cute letters...

Dear soldiers,
Thank you for kicking the bad guys bottoms! When I was little I wanted to be you. Now I might be a judge. When the attacks happened I was only 1. I was born in 1999. ...Love

Dear soldiers,
Thank you for protecting us. I am grateful. I heard next spring you will be coming home. Is that true? How old are you? I'm eight. How old is the youngest person in the military? You are my hero. I know somebody in war. I don't know his name but he has a sister named Maxine. Do you know him? ...Love

There are a lot more that are funny and cute. Just thought I would share some...

God bless!

Lost?

2007-08-28T13:08:00.000-04:00

So I went running yesterday...it was supposed to be a 3 mile day, but I felt like running 6...so I decided to change it up and run at this park near downtown. I was running and really enjoying it...I wasn't really paying attention, just following the path and waving at the other runners when I realized I had no clue where I was. I kept running hoping I would recognize where I was eventually (Greenville isn't that big)...so about 20 minutes later I emerged in downtown Gville...so the question now was do I just go the way I know to get to my car or brave the paths again...I decided to do both...kinda. I went what I thought was the right way, only to realize I was running on a major road(don't worry mom, I was running so I could see the cars coming)...a few nice drivers "waved" me across (it's much more fun to be the waver that the wavee :) ) ...so I ran on the road for awhile until I saw a path I recognized, I cut down a big hill to get to it. So I did a little off roading and ended up on the path. 10 short minutes later I was back at my car. I think I ended up running 8 or 9 miles. It was fun and a good change of pace. Next time I am going to look at the map of the course instead of just picking the road less taken. Moral of the story...make sure you don't have anywhere to go if you ever come running with me :)

Back to school

2007-08-21T14:06:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the first day of school. I didn't get much sleep on Sunday night I was so excited. I really felt like I was a kid again. It went well...no serious problems. It was craziness for dismissal, but that is to be expected. I have a sweet little class. I had one little girl with me for half the day, she wasn't on my list or didn't have any paperwork with her but said she was in my class. I went to the office the first chance I go and asked if she was added to my class and they started to laugh saying she was supposed to be in special ed. I felt so bad telling her I wasn't going to be her teacher anymore. But it was kind of funny that she just picked me, I don't know if that's a good sign or a bad one...lol.

I am all situated in my apartment now. Mom and dad came down last weekend and saw it. We went out to lunch on Saturday. On Friday I met them at Aunt Susans I think the funniest was hanging out with them and Willie at Aunt Susans. Willie and I taught mom how to dap someone up. I think I almost peed in my pants I was laughing so hard. At first she was too tense, then she was a noodle, she ended up getting pretty good at it. So next person that sees mom ask her to dap you up! Mom, dad, Aunt Susan and I went out to eat in Liberty, SC...if your asking where don't worry I did too. It is a LITTLE town and it is in the middle of no where, but they had an amazingly good Italian resturant. So if you are ever in Liberty try it out...Nino's.

Okay I need to go pick up my angels (so far so good) from Spanish class.
XOXO

It's over already?!

2007-08-02T22:36:00.000-04:00

Well this summer flew by...I don't remember the last time it went by so fast...probably because I was having so much fun! I go back to Gville on Saturday. I am so thankful for Monte and Julie opening up their house to me. It was so awesome to stay here and be with them and the kids. We have had some good times. Way too many to write down on here, but maybe when I get a second I will.

This summer has taught me a lot. It was a rough begining, but God is so amazing. He has provided for me and shown me so many things this summer.

I have also loved being here because seeing Monte and JB has made me realize what I want in a marriage. They are so amazing to eachother and with their kids. Beckham and Ainsley are adorable(we all know that), but they are so well behaved. I used to think they just were blessed with "good ones", but being with them everyday I see how much hard work goes into being consistent and loving with them. Yes Beckham and Ainsley are also good kids too, but I think a lot of it has to do with how Monte and JB raise them. Julie is an incredible mom and is always thinking of fun things to do with/for the kiddos. Monte is a great dad...just today when he got home from work it almost made me cry seeing how excited the kids were to see him...they immediately stopped playing with me and jumped off the bed and ran down stairs with a huge smile and laughing. It was so sweet.

This summer has also been great because of thier church. I love the pastor and am thankful I got to hear him. I am definently going to be getting the podcast for his weekly sermons.

Okay I am babbling on, but I just wanted to take a blog second and reflect a little. I hope Monte and JB know how special this summer has been and how incredibly thankful I am. I don't think I can even express it! I love you guys :) I move to Gville on Saturday...pray that everything goes smoothly! xoxo

Wedding Dance

2007-07-21T23:11:00.001-04:00

My good friend Katie sent me this...it's hilarious!

Countdown

2007-07-21T12:41:00.001-04:00

The city I should live in is...

2007-07-03T20:44:00.000-04:00

American Cities That Best Fit You:

75% Honolulu

70% Austin

65% Miami

60% Denver

60% Seattle

Which American Cities Best Fit You?

So you think you can dance?

2007-06-28T10:51:00.000-04:00

I don't know about anyone else, but I love So You Think You Can Dance?(http://www.fox.com/dance/ ) I know Julie does too because we both watch it every week. I don't know what it is, but I love watching each week to see the dancers adapt to different styles (or fail to adapt). My favorites are Danny, Hok, and Pasha.

Last night JB and I were watching the show...Monte doesn't like it so he went for a run. He came back and had decided it was in our genes to watch bad reality TV...I quickly informed him that I had just gotten off the phone with my dad and my parents were watching it to! He responded "Okay instead of just the Scott girls, its a whole family thing to watch bad TV" I could only laugh...but it doesn't change the fact that I love the show!

If you want to watch some people shake it...it's on Wednesdays and Thursdays on Fox. I can't wait to see who gets kicked off...I am thinking Cedrick and Jessie(if she doesn't get out of the hospital) or Lauren if Jessie comes back and dances.

I QUIT!!!

2007-06-24T21:10:00.000-04:00

Although it was not as dramatic as it sounds in my title, I have decided not to work at City Tavern anymore. I was working a lot and bringing home no bacon. I had been praying about it and I think it is more important for me to spend time with Julie, Monte, Beckham, and Ainsley. I have so much fun with them and hate leaving for work. That isn't the only reason...another deciding factor was working all day yesterday and coming home with a whopping $65! I was not very happy, also considering I had to be on the upstairs patio in the 90 degree heat. It was a hard decision because I am not a quitter, but I figured they will be okay since they already have a million servers on the floor at one time. I never thought I would say it but I miss working at Wild Wings...or maybe it was the money I miss...haha. Anyways we were talking at dinner tonight and I think I am going to be the neighborhood babysitter. That way I can pick and choose when I want/can work and also be with the Watkins. So please don't think of me any less because I am a quitter, I just wanted to enjoy my summer...:)

Packing Up

2007-06-20T16:26:00.000-04:00

Before I came to Julie's for the summer I needed to store all my stuff somewhere. My lease was up and I didn't want to pay rent for 2 months when I wasn't going to be there. I got a storage unit and put all my stuff in it. After countless trips to the unit and lots of help from mom, dad, and a few friends I finally finished. I was amazed at how much crap I had...and I even took a bunch to Goodwill and threw tons out too. My goal when I move back in is to go through the stuff and really purge! Anyways I took a picture of the unit and me after it was all done. We couldn't have fit anything else in it if we tried. I loved the challenge of maneuvering everything so it fit, I found out I am a lot like dad( who would have thought :) )

AMENDMENTS

2007-06-12T22:59:00.000-04:00

1. I always kiss my hand and then touch the ceiling of my car when I run a red light (it's really not that often) :)

2. I too like to drink out of straws. It hurts my teeth not to.

3. When calling people I normally don't leave messages...they take too long and I never listen to mine so I figure people don't listen to theirs.

4. I don't like to use styrophome (spelling?) because I hate the sound of it.

5. I always check my pictures right after I take them. I don't know how we lived without digital cameras for so long.

6. It drives me bananas when people end sentences with AT...or any preposition for that matter, but especially AT. For instance that two way comercial..."Yo, where you at?" I want to say "Yo, right behind that preposition!!!" And I wonder why my students can't speak proper english.

7. I have a shower ritual...I shampoo my hair...while washing it out I use my bar soap...then I put conditioner in and while that is "moisterizing" my hair I scrub with my loofah and shower gel. It saves time by multi-tasking and I feel double clean by washing twice :)

8. I always pay my full balance on my credit card...I get freaked out if I don't/can't and work extra so I can.

9. Whenever I go running I need to have music of some type. It helps my run faster...

10. To go with the singing in the car one from earlier, I often make up my own words and think no one will realize...o but they do.

Okay that's enough for now...as you can tell I was a little bored at my new job...I think I am going to like it, and I decided I'm going to use this as a platform to share my faith either by talking with people or example. We have a lot of "queens" that work there. If you are like me and were unaware, but apparently people call Charlotte the "Queen City" because there are a lot of gay guys. They are all really nice to me and good people...I'll let you know how it goes.

Off to bed for me!

xoxo

Personal Policies

2007-06-12T16:25:00.000-04:00

Katie and Char have tagged me for a Personal Policies meme. She wants to know my personal policies - not moral rules, like "Do Not Kill," I'm talking about the silly policies we impose on ourselves, like "Never eat anything you can't identify," or "Don't step on sidewalk cracks."

1. I hate being late. I hate when other people are late. I feel like it is not respecting me and my time. I am busy, I don't have time to wait for rude people.

2. I no longer drink soda...I'm trying to stop with the juices too.

3. I never hit the snooze button.

4. I like to read before bed. If I don't read I have to have the TV on.

5. I don't like cherry red mini vans...don't ask me I just don't like them. It's like they think they are a sports car.

6. I will pick every tomato off my burgers, salads, sandwiches, etc. I hate the texture of them.

7. I love to sing as loud as I can with the windows down when I drive.

I will think of more later...I have to go to work.

Pool Pics

2007-06-08T17:59:00.000-04:00

Ainsley loved the water. She was so cute in her little hat!

Beckham and his spiderman goggles and "muscles" as he calls his floaties

Welcome to Tega Cay

2007-06-07T16:19:00.000-04:00

Well I am officially in Charlotte! I got here yesterday to a warm welcome from Julie, Monte, Beckham, and Ainsley. Yesterday I unpacked my over stuffed car and started playing with the kiddos. They are adorable! It amazes me how fast they grow. I went to The City Tavern and got a job there waitressing. As the man that hired me said this is no Wild Wings, we are upscale. I kind of laughed to myself as I didn't see a bunch of redneck regulars and girls walking around in Got Beer? shirts, I clearly noticed it was more fine dinning. I start work on Tuesday morning. I am going to try and see if I can teach swim lessons at the Y and get a free membership. I need to start preparing for the marathon( my official 18 week program starts the first week of August).

Ainsley is talking so much more now. She is so cute when she does her animal sounds. Maybe she will be a zoologist when she grows up! :) She certainly knows her animals!

Today I planned to get up and go to Beckham's soccer camp, but my sleep was too good. I told him I will go tomorrow. I have a new found respect for mothers. We went to the pool today and played for a long time. Beckham was surfing on my legs and Ainsley liked me blowing bubbles underwater for her to pop. I was beat after we got home. I think all of us ended up taking naps. I took some pictures as soon as I find my cable to hook it up to the computer I will upload them!

Now I am debating going to Greenville to help my roomie clean the apartment. Before I left I did what I thought was my share of the cleaning duties, but apparently not. I don't want to not go and be a bad example of Christ's love, but at the same time I don't think I should have to go back and do more than them and spend gas money on an 1 1/2 drive. We all know I am not very confrontational so I am trying to decide what to do...whatever happened to the hardest decision in your life being whether to play sharks and menos or marco-polo?

2007-06-02T18:14:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics from Memorial Day weekend in Florida...we had lots of fun!

Marathon

2007-06-01T10:11:00.000-04:00

I am really considering running the Thunder Road Marathon (http://www.runcharlotte.com/) in Charlotte on December 8th. I know it would be a lot of training, but I think if I have something to work for I can do it. It looks like a fun race...I'm going to pray about it and decide soon. I need to start my training if I am going to do it! What do ya'll think? Good idea or crazy?! Let me know...

My Guestbook!

2007-05-31T08:36:00.000-04:00

I have followed in Charlotte's footsteps and made a guestbook. Although I'm pretty sure my family are the only ones that read this thing! Haha.

My week in words...

2007-05-31T08:16:00.001-04:00

I guess it's been awhile since I posted...sorry I have been super busy with the end of school. To fill you in on the last couple days our third grade play was a major hit...I felt like a parent I was almost crying I was so proud of my kiddos. This year has been a long year, but I am so thankful for each of my students. Each one has taught me a lot in the year, probably more than I have taught them. Yesterday was field day, and like a Scott I was in there competing with my class(although I was a little disappointed in field day, it used to be dog eat dog and the kids used to get prizes for winning...now they don't want kids to lose so it's more cooperation...what's all that about...lol). It was fun for the kids and I also enjoyed it.

My trip to Florida with my girls was awesome. God is truely amazing how He times everything perfectly. He knew I needed some time away with people close to me. We had a lot of fun hanging out on the beach, going out, cooking, bringing up old memories, and just enjoying each other. I will post pictures later.

God has really been teaching me and I feel really close to Him right now. He is showing me that I am going to hurt and have emotions over PJ, but that He is using this to change me and make me more like Him. I have an amazing since of peace that I know only comes from God. I realized the other day that I was praying the wrong prayer when we broke up, I was praying for God to heal my heart and make the pain go away. Instead I need to be praying for God to use this time to refine me and mold me into His vision. I was being selfish and only looking at my earthly feelings instead of eternal purposes.

That's not all that's been going on, but I feel like I rambled enough. I have 2 more days of school, today and tomorrow. I am going to miss my little ones, but I am excited for the summer. I am going to be living with Julie and Monte. I am so pumped to get to hang out with them and their cuties!!!

Some good stuff

2007-05-24T08:11:00.000-04:00

I have started reading Lies Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. So far I really like it. It is amazing how sneaky Satan can be. It has already revealed to me so much. One of the quotes that really struck me is about God's love. So often we are faced with the world that tells us God doesn't love you if He did He wouldn't... well the truth is that "He loves me-because He is love. His love for me is not based on anything I have ever done or ever could do for Him. It is not based on my performance. I do not deserve His love and could never earn it." So many times I find myself doubting God's love for me because of the past sins/mistakes I have made. I am beginning to get a better handle on the fact that God loves me just because I'm me. That thought is so comforting and amazing it made me cry this morning. (Granted I am very emotional right now :) ) How crazy and awesome is that, there is nothing I can do that will ever make Him love me less or more. I don't have to compete for His love...it's just there.

There was also a quote from Hannah Whitall Smith that summarizes the greatness of His love..."Put together all the tenderest love you know, the deepest you have ever felt, and the strongest that has ever been poured out upon you, and heap it upon all the love of all the loving human hearts in the world, and then multiply it by infinity, and you will begin , perhaps, to have some faint glimpse of what the love of God is." Now if that isn't love I don't know what is.

I am really beginning to see God's fingerprints in all of my trials. I may not like going through them(okay let's be honest it stinks). But Hebrew 12:10 tells us that God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in His holiness. I pray God will give me the strength and encouragement I need. I know He will because there isn't anything He can't handle, but it's hard to let everything go.

Friends and family

2007-05-22T08:38:00.000-04:00

I am so thankful for my friends and family. I honestly can say I don't know what I would do without each one of you. I am going through some hard times right now, but I don't feel alone because so many of you have reached out to support me. I feel so blessed that God gave me such incredible family. I think growing up and even in college I took my family forgranted. I thought everyone grew up in a close knit family, over my years I have learned that is not always the case. If that wasn't enough God blessed me with the most amazing friends in the world. Both my friends and family are always by my side and there for me even when I mess up big time. I just pray that I will continue to trust God and everything will work out. I hope I can be the friend/sister/daughter that everyone has been to me! Thanks everyone! Love ya'll.

xoxo

tag...

2007-05-21T16:23:00.000-04:00

Here are the rules:
1. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
2. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
3. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.4. Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they're tagged, and to read your blog.Here it goes:

1. I love to read.
2. I want a puppy.
3. I am a worrier.
4. I love my family and friends.
5. My favorite movie is Dirty Dancing.
6. I love to nap, if it's not 1.5 hours or longer it's a tease.
7. I love the beach, or any place for that matter.
8. I could do without judgemental/ignorant people.
Now it is our turn to tag 8 other bloggers, I don't know anyone else so I guess I am it permanently.

can't come fast enough...

2007-05-21T14:44:00.000-04:00

Summer can not come fast enough...I feel like a kid again, counting down the last days of school. I know I will miss my little students so much when summer is here, but right now I wouldn't mind a break! Which is awesome because for Memorial Day weekend a bunch of college former ballers are going to Destin, Florida for a mini reunion. I am really looking forward to it. Look for pictures to come soon! :)

Funny story of the day!!! When I need/want my kids to be quiet we play this game called "The Quiet Game". I am sure you have heard of it, but there is a twist. It is boys vs. girls...if you talk you loose a point for your team. The catch is I can trick the kids into talking by asking them questions...there is no prize just the competitive spirit. It works really well and the more you get into it the quieter the kids...I suggest people try it on road trips with their kids!!!

So anyways, we are sitting waiting to start our Third Grade Play practice (200 9 year olds putting on a production) and I am trying to keep them quiet. I felt like I was an entertainer on stage...anyways so I was trying to trick them when I asked if anyone wants me to take them to ice cream SCREAM for ice cream...this little chubby boy all of sudden just SCREAMS!!! Haha...I don't know if it is funny to anyone or if you had to be there, but I couldn't stop laughing. Needless to say the boys lost a point...

This weekend was a tough one for me. I had to work on Saturday and Sunday at Wild Wing. I really wasn't in the mood at all to work. Once I got there it was okay. I have been going through some struggles right now and am really praying for God to show me which way He wants to go. Please pray that He reveals to me the truth and that He gives me the strength to follow through.

I hope everyone has a great day!

xoxo

Jump on...

2007-04-26T14:50:00.000-04:00

I decided to jump on the bandwagon as well. I was meaning to blog my whole frist year of teaching, but if you are a teacher or know one you know that idea was not really tangible. I am know going to follow the footsteps of my amazing siblings...Amy your next. This year has gone by so fast, but at times couldn't go fast enough...Now my future awaits me and I am wishing I was just like my students in third grade that only have a summer full of pool days and sleeping in ahead :) This shouldl be fun, don't know how much I will get to blog...but it's worth a try.

The picture above is of one of my sweeties and his twin brother. I took them to a Furman bball game...they had never been to a game before. They got to go out on the court and compete during a timeout...the smiles on their faces were priceless.