Being Carried Through

I survived my first year teaching. If you're a teacher you know the excitement and sigh of relief that comes with that. The last day of school we had a small third grade ceremony and party with my students and their parents. I made a short slide show of the pictures I had taken of the students that year and we had a great time reminiscing and noticing how much the kids have grown physically and academically. This class will always hold a special place in my heart especially as my first class. They are all moving on to 4th grade, but being that they're two doors down I will still get to see them often.

Third graders the last week of school!

Some teachers at the IAS high school graduation.

We visited the hot springs again. This is us in August and in May. How fast the year went!

I am currently enjoying my summer in the States while also preparing to return to Guatemala in August. I am returning for another year and will be teaching third grade again. My next years' class will be a very different group academically and socially, but I am extremely excited about being their teacher. I am still loving what I am doing and can't wait to return and get a second year to improve teaching methods, lesson plans, and be overall more confident and organized!

This summer is a busy one. I am spending the bulk of it in Texas with the family, but just recently got back from California visiting lots of friends and family that I haven't seen in years. It was beautiful weather and as always the beach and relaxation was very enjoyable. I am working a little bit to make some money, about to visit New York for a couple weeks, then returning to Guatemala a few days early to get my wisdom teeth pulled, then recovering quickly to return to work August 6.

Karis' 8th grade graduation ceremony.

Brooke and I on the beach in Oceanside.

The transition back to the States has been fairly easy. Somehow life seems to move a little more quickly here and I find myself wanting to do everything and eat everywhere and see everyone. I miss my job and friends in Guatemala and will be ready to return.

Returning to the States, I've been reminded of some of the small things I miss. These are the small things I'm enjoying while I'm home :)

1. walking on sidewalks and being able to walk next to someone, not in a single file line or worrying about stepping in dog poop, or twisting your ankle on the uneven sidewalks
2. pedestrians having the right of way
3. brewed Sweet tea
4. everyone speaking a language I know
5. Mexican food
6. being able to see stars
7. having a washer and dryer IN THE HOUSE
8. taking a shower without having to light the hot water heater
9. being able to sleep in relative silence (no dogs barking/fighting, blaring radios, or buses that would never pass inspection)
10. every small tremor you feel isn't an earthquake

God is so good. This has been a huge year in my life with crazy transitions and experiences. God has been so faithful in carrying me through it. I am so blessed to get the opportunity to be in Guatemala working in an incredible ministry and an incredible God, but also getting to take a break. Thank you for prayers and support!