On my way home from day one of this quarter's classes, I got a text from Trey (who was in Alabama) asking "how were classes today?" My response: "I am sooooooo happy!!"  I don't believe I uttered those words once during the entire 11 weeks of winter quarter.  Everything the last term wasn't, this term is.  Glory Hallelujah!

So what makes this time around so much better?  In a word: everything.  First, I am taking three Secondary Ed. classes instead of General Ed.  Second, I have a friend in every single class.  In fact, on the first two days every classroom I walked into had someone waving at me and saving me a seat. (you would not believe how competitive the seating issue is.)  Last time around I could barely get anyone to look at me much less talk to me so this is such a welcomed change.  I didn't realize how lonely I was.  I need that human connection. Third, I get to do my intensive middle school practicum (40 hours in the classroom) with the most wonderful 6th grade teacher whose classroom I was in last quarter.She is energetic, organized and a grandmother of 14 so a classroom of 25 is a piece of cake for her.  I am learning loads from just observing her twice a week.  Fourth, along with that practicum, there are four of us who are crazy enough to love middle schoolers and we get to work on a project together and meet once a week with our amazing adviser.  It is the highlight of my week. Last, I am only in class during the hours of 10-2 when the kids are in school.  No 8 a.m. or 4 p.m. classes!!  No scrambling to find rides for the boys when Trey goes out of town.  No leaving for the night when everyone is coming home.  No coming home at bedtime and getting up the next day at 6.

As I look back, I can see God's hand in all of this.  Although last time around wasn't my favorite at least Trey only traveled once the entire three months.  He and the boys were up at the mountain most every Saturday and Sunday so I was guaranteed at least one full day to catch up on homework. This time around is the opposite: Trey has been gone every other week and will continue to be for the remainder of the quarter.  All three boys are doing a spring sport (this has never happened) and the weeks I am solo, Quinn has had at least two out of town games, my most demanding assignments are due and I'm guaranteed one quiz or exam that same week.  If I had the class schedule, professors, classmates and subject matters similar to the previous three months, I don't think I could do this craziness.  I'm so thankful God knew this.  He really is concerned with every little detail of our lives.

Four weeks down, seven to go!!

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