Before I begin I just want to say that an update on moving in light of everything going on in the world right now would seem callous and heartless without acknowledging the brokenness that I feel for all of those in the Ukraine fleeing their homes. I have shared a lot on instagram about different things, news pieces, ways to help, etc. but my heart goes out to those in the midst of a forced move. I can not even imagine...our hearts and prayers are with all of those affected.
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Happy Saturday friends! I hope the start to your weekend is going great! It's been a month since I updated on our move to New York from Tennessee and I don't know about y'all but the days seem to be flying more and more this year!*smiles* I thought today would be the perfect day to update on our move up to New York as I receive so many questions each day about how things are going, how teaching is going, how we are settling in, etc. In many ways it is completely surreal that this week marks nine months since the process really began and a couple of months since we moved again (from Albany to upstate New York). In some ways it seems like just yesterday that I was in Tennessee teaching, that we just did our senior day and yet other times it seems like years because so many things have taken place... time is funny like that- isn't it?
Overall
Overall, I would say that we have been met with peace in deep ways as we have moved back to upstate New York. Honestly a peace that is beyond on my understanding. Last year at this time both of us were completely against moving back here for so many different reasons, but as the Lord opened doors to this space, job, and area it has been a peaceful and sweet transition. I think that there are still so many things that you have to give yourself grace for and so if you are in the midst of a lot of big adjustments and moves like we are... give yourself a LOT of grace.
Teaching
I shared this last week, but since I am often asked if I miss teaching right now in this unexpected season, I wanted to clarify yes. Yes. Yes. Yes... definitely yes.
More than words can express.
More than words can say.
DEFINITELY yes.
This picture (above) popped up in my memories recently (from a precious "senior day" that we did last year in February) and it brought tears to my eyes. Last year was one of the biggest blessings of my life... and I will ALWAYS be grateful. More than words can express.
I am definitely excited to share that there is a potential opportunity of something next year and I would definitely appreciate your prayers about this possibility. I can't say much about it right now, but would definitely ask for prayers as I am hoping and praying that this specific opportunity would come to fruition.
Writing
Kids’ birthday parties come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few themes that work well for just about any group of youngsters. Here are ten great themes to consider for your child’s next birthday bash:
1) Superheroes
Who doesn’t love a good superhero party? Invite your guests to dress up as their favorite hero (or villain) and have plenty of activities planned to keep everyone entertained. Activities could include making masks or capes, playing tag or other games inspired by superheroes, or even watching a movie together.
2) Pirates
Ahoy, mateys! Set sail on an adventure with your friends at your child’s pirate-themed birthday party. Have everyone dress up in pirate costumes, play games like “walk the plank” and “pin the treasure map on the island,” and of course, feast on pirate-themed food.
3) Dinosaur
If your child is obsessed with dinosaurs (or just Jurassic Park), a dinosaur-themed party is a must. Serve up some dinosaur-shaped cookies and cupcakes, put together a few simple games, and watch as your guests roar with excitement.
4) Fairytale
From Cinderella to Rapunzel, there are tons of classic fairytales that would make for an enchanting birthday party theme. Serve themed snacks and drinks, decorate with whimsical fairy lights and flowers, and let your guests have a ball dressing up in their favorite fairytale costumes.
5) Beach party
If you’re looking for a summer-themed party that doesn’t involve superheroes or dinosaurs, try a beach party. Set up a few beach chairs and an umbrella or two, put out some beach balls and sand toys, and grill up some burgers and hot dogs for a poolside feast. And don’t forget the piña coladas!
6) Army
If your child is into camouflage, tanks, and military flags, an army party might be just the thing. Have everyone dress in their best camo gear, play games like “capture the flag” and “hide and seek,” and serve up some tasty army-themed snacks.
7) Airplanes
For the aviation enthusiast, an airplane party is a perfect choice. Serve up snacks like peanuts and pretzels, put together a simple obstacle course, and watch your guests take to the skies in their imagination.
8) Princess
If your little one dreams of being a princess (or just loves all things pink and frilly), a princess party is sure to please. Set the scene with plenty of tulle, lace, and glitter, serve up some sweet treats, and let your guests have a blast playing dress-up.
9) Construction
With all the new buildings going on in cities everywhere, construction parties are more popular than ever. Ask each guest to bring an old shirt or hat that they don’t mind getting dirty, set up some simple construction-themed games, and let the fun begin.
10) Carnival
If you’re looking for a theme that can accommodate any age group, a carnival party is hard to beat. Serve up classic carnival fares like popcorn, cotton candy, and hot dogs, put together some games (like ring toss and bean bag toss), and let your guests have a blast.
There You Have It
No matter what theme you choose for your child’s birthday party, be sure to have plenty of activities planned to keep the little ones entertained. From face painting to balloon animals to simple games, there’s something for everyone. So get planning and create a birthday party that your child will never forget!
*contributed post*
Too often, we overlook the moments in life when we’re successful and achieve something. It’s easy to be harsh on yourself when things are not going well, but it’s sometimes tougher to celebrate our wins and successes. It’s something that we should do more, but what should that look like? You obviously don’t want to get too far ahead of yourself, but successes deserve to be celebrated. Here are some of the ways to do it right.
Use it to Fuel Future Successes
First of all, you should try to use your success as a source of inspiration for future progress. This is a good way of recognizing how far you’ve come, and it can be particularly helpful in your career. We all want to achieve as much as we can in our careers, and proving to yourself what you’re capable of and using that proof for future growth and success is a great way to mark your progress.
Show Appreciation for Those Who Helped You Along the Way
When you achieve something really big, it’s often good to show a bit of humility and to share the celebrations with those around you. Most of the things we achieve in life are only made possible because of the hard work of those around us. It’s often a team achievement rather than an individual one, and that’s something you should keep in mind.
Dedicate Time to Self-Care
Dedicating some time to self-care could be one of the very best ways to make your progress and to give yourself a break. When we’ve been working up to something for a long time and then it all comes together, we often end the process feeling tired and burnt out. So why not treat yourself to a little self-care and time off? It could be just what you need.
Treat Yourself to the Things You’d Ordinarily Consider Out of Reach
There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself to something special. Why wait for other people to give you the gifts you want most; after all, you’re the one who knows your style and preferences best. So whether that means splashing on some sapphire jewellery you’ve always wanted or buying a designer item; go for it. Those successes give you the chance to reward yourself with the stuff that you’d ordinarily consider too much.
Embrace Spontaneity
Finally, you should allow yourself to be spontaneous and do something that might be out of your comfort zone. Some people celebrate their successes by going travelling or doing things that they wouldn’t normally do. That could be the perfect way to celebrate your successes too. We all need to get ourselves out of our comfort zone from time to time.
So next time you achieve something important in your career or any other aspect of your life, be sure to recognize that success and celebrate it in some way. After all, there’s little point in putting in all that hard work and effort if you never take the time to celebrate your success.
*contributed post*
