~It's all in the name~

We named Reed after my grandmother's maiden name. I never gave any thought to what the name Reed meant. However, for some random reason last week, I pondered it. A reed is a stem type plant that is known for its strength. How appropriately did we name our little fighter who showed such strength in his battle for life? Wow! I was speechless when I realized how all of this fit together. No other name would have been appropriate for him with the beginning he had in this world. Strength is definitely one of his finer qualities. I can't wait to see where that same strength takes him in this life of his.

Tonight we tried the BIG TUB. No more baby tub for Reed! He absolutely loved splashing in the big tub with his new toys. He was rather upset when I took him out to get dressed. I think he would live in the water if he could. I can't wait until this summer when we can get him some swimming lessons and play in the pool. Oh, the fun we will have!

The last two weeks have been a huge struggle for me. I have the most challenging group of students this year that I have ever had. So many strong personalities in one room makes for many challenging days. They can be the most loving children, too, though. I have definitely drawn on strength beyond me to make it through the last two weeks. Those of you who know me as a teacher know that I go above and beyond with my students. I want to save everyone of them. Yet, all I get is hurt each time one of them gets in trouble. Many tears were shed Friday with behavior issues, something I've never done before. No doubt the whole struggle with Reed affected me completely. I now take these children in my classroom for 180 days as my very own children, in a way I never have before. Therefore, I have opened myself up to so much more hurt. I find myself praying for the students as much as I pray for myself. I'd like to ask each of you to include my students in your prayers. These kids have so much potential, and just need to get their behaviors in check so that they can make something good of themselves. When I've done all I can do as the teacher in the classroom, I have to turn it all over to God....which is backwards in order, I know. But, being the fixer that I am, I have to give it my best effort to fix things first. :)  Some habits die hard. Teaching is not what it used to be. We, teachers, are required to be so many things other than just the teacher. Students bring so much baggage with them to schools these days, that we can't only focus on educating the child. My plea is that you will not only include my students and me in your prayers, but all teachers and students.....all of whom are enjoying this Christmas break right now. :)

I know that there is a reason I ended up with this group of students in my class this year. I have prayed since August for God to use me to fulfill whatever His plan is with these students....something else I've never done before. 2010 has definitely been a year of firsts for me. What a learning experience it has been!

My uncle is supposed to go home tomorrow if all stays the same. Thanking God for another miracle in 2010! So many things happen around us daily that we don't even acknowledge as being miracles. We are always focusing on the BIG miracle we want to see, which we got to see with Reed. However, there are small miracles happening all around us each day.....if we only take time to notice them.

Love to all,