Alternative Jobs and Criminals

Well, it's another Monday, and I am working while watching Criminal Intent.

How is that possible, you ask, puzzled expression on your face. People go to work to work.

Well not me!

After applying and applying and hearing nothing from one too many jobs, I decided I would have to make my own opportunities, and have done so. I'm opening my own business that will include, initially, an e-newsletter (subscriptions are ten dollars a year), a blog, and training materials for child care centers. I set today as my first day of work, and I did so. I worked. I began my blog, posted it on facebook, sent notices to some of my friends, and can't wait to see what happens.

Ironically, after making the decision to start my own business, I got a call the other day for an interview to adjunct at the local community college. Hopefully that will pan out well for me. I have been surprised by how much I truly miss teaching in a college setting. As much as I miss working with young children, I almost think I miss working with college students more.

Obviously, I didn't choose this so I could stay at home and watch Criminal Intent. But it's been a rough weekend, and I would be lying if I said I wasn't glad to be able to work at my own speed while watching my own eye candy.

My son has had a rough couple of weeks, and is struggling with the transition of our move. Heck, I'm struggling with it too. I was thrilled, though, when he came home on Friday and announced he really likes his new school. It was what I thought would happen, and what I believed would happen...but hearing it from his mouth made it worthwhile.

Well, if you're reading this blog and you want to check out the new one, feel free. You can find it at www.jumpingbeankids.blogspot.com. Hopefully it will be my opportunity to affect my little corner of the world in a positive way.

Doing Good

One of the best parts of my last job was all the wonderful people I met on a regular basis. I was joking with a friend of mine the other day about how I feel like some sort of "mama" to my former students at times. It's amazing how we mature over time, and how the people that I saw entering my courses with enthusiasm and a desire to conquer the world are now teachers, mothers, wives, and all around amazing people. I love to hear what they're up to, to share their joy as they marry or bring a new life into the world. It's exciting to watch their children grow and to see them accomplish their professional and personal goals.

One of my former students, Kellee Tomlinson, is one such person. She and her husband Doug set a goal to be missionaries to Thailand. They have been working doggedly on planning a successful mission trip to serve the needy in Thailand--including opportunities for education. I first met Kellee several years ago as an undergraduate student in one of my classes. Quiet but thoughtful, it was clear that she took her responsibilities as a student very seriously. I had the opportunity to coteach with Kellee as she advanced in her program and found her to be a dedicated, impressive young teacher who understood the developmental needs of children and held herself to a high standard to challenge them.

Kellee and Doug are making tremendous progress toward their goal of moving to Thailand. I admire their tenacity and dedication tremendously. I see so many of my former students doing good in this world, making a difference in the lives of children both locally and around the world. What we put out, we get back.

Recently, in my own search of where I'm supposed to be going professionally, I was talking with Kellee and trying to figure out what I'm supposed to be doing. Our conversation gave me fire and encouraged me to start my own business. I asked Kellee if it would be okay for me to link her Thailand missionary information to this blog, and she said yes. She and Doug need support in many ways. Even if you are able to send your support through prayer, it is greatly appreciated. If you'd like to read more about what they're doing, click on the link. (This is my first attempt at linking anything, so hopefully with my dear husband's help, we shall be successful!). You can also look them up on facebook: Tomlinsons to Thailand.

It's often said that students are inspired by good teachers. I would argue that teachers are also inspired by good students. And we're all inspired by good friends. Here's to Kellee and Doug and their little boy...and the great changes this family will bring to the world.

Tomlinsons to Thailand

Enjoy!