Day 42
It takes effort and a willingness to listen to your conscience to get stuff done and improve on different skills. I admire those who have the discipline to practice over two hours a day or who can get all their work done and get to bed before 11pm every night. Me,...I'm working on it. The past few nights I've been in bed before 11pm, just not tonight since I have more work to do.
I'm slowly and steadily building up the discipline to practice at least an hour every day and to spend more time on homework and lesson plans than I do checking emails and Facebook. Even this blog has needed a level of discipline to write an entry every night. I'm thankful for the chance to work on my discipline and to learn from other's stronger discipline so I can become a better student and a better trumpet player. It's a work in progress and I'm thankful God is gracious enough to be patient with me while I work on it.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Reality Checks
Day 41
Student teaching is rough on some days with different classes. Today the kindergarten classes were giving me a run for my money. I was introducing a new lesson and it wasn't going very smoothly. They wouldn't listen to instructions, sit still, or remember to raise their hand if they wanted to talk. It was hard fighting them the whole time while trying to get them to learn something. My trumpet lesson didn't go so great either. I seem to be in this annoying routine of having a really awesome lesson, then a not-so-good lesson when I need to be improving EVERY week. My senior recital check is in about eight weeks but I really only have six more formal lessons until then. Ouch.
I thought about the day on the drive home and realized that it's going to be a continuous learning experience with those kindergarten kids every day. I'm still figuring out their names, what works for each class, and how to come up with a Plan B in case my original lesson doesn't follow through. I need to explore different methods and what I could do better to grab their attention for those quick twenty minutes of music class. I also thought through my trumpet lesson and what needed to happen if I want to prove myself as a competent trumpet player. My trumpet professor told me I am my own worst enemy when it comes to my playing abilities because I don't lift myself up when I practice nor do I think positively about the harder passages. I need to work on building my confidence in my trumpet playing and every other area of life, it seems.
Thanks, God, for the two-fold reality check today. I must have really needed it. Please help me gain self-confidence so that I can serve you better through my teaching and my playing.
Student teaching is rough on some days with different classes. Today the kindergarten classes were giving me a run for my money. I was introducing a new lesson and it wasn't going very smoothly. They wouldn't listen to instructions, sit still, or remember to raise their hand if they wanted to talk. It was hard fighting them the whole time while trying to get them to learn something. My trumpet lesson didn't go so great either. I seem to be in this annoying routine of having a really awesome lesson, then a not-so-good lesson when I need to be improving EVERY week. My senior recital check is in about eight weeks but I really only have six more formal lessons until then. Ouch.
I thought about the day on the drive home and realized that it's going to be a continuous learning experience with those kindergarten kids every day. I'm still figuring out their names, what works for each class, and how to come up with a Plan B in case my original lesson doesn't follow through. I need to explore different methods and what I could do better to grab their attention for those quick twenty minutes of music class. I also thought through my trumpet lesson and what needed to happen if I want to prove myself as a competent trumpet player. My trumpet professor told me I am my own worst enemy when it comes to my playing abilities because I don't lift myself up when I practice nor do I think positively about the harder passages. I need to work on building my confidence in my trumpet playing and every other area of life, it seems.
Thanks, God, for the two-fold reality check today. I must have really needed it. Please help me gain self-confidence so that I can serve you better through my teaching and my playing.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Interviews
Day 40
All education majors had the opportunity to participate in a career fair featuring Christian schools. I'm not sure if I want to teach in a Christian school as my first choice, but it can be an option. I had an interview last night that opened my eyes to the possibilities of teaching overseas in a number of different countries. I could have the opportunity of teaching music in Brazil! Today I interviewed along with a fellow music education student at an Indiana school that offered an opportunity to teach elementary students and help head up the music program overall. The benefit package and insurance were superb and rare options to find in a Christian school. They boasted of a wonderful music program and they emphasized the importance of music in their school. I think I'm warming up to the fact that I could probably teach in a Christian school if that's where God wants me to be.
My fiance made up a list of twenty schools around the area that we are going to be living to help me see the opportunities closer to home. That was a huge help in seeing that teaching opportunities don't have to be limited to out of state and around the world. I'm very thankful for the chance to interview with such great schools, even though the timing may not be right yet. God is good, and He will provide. I'm still being reminded of that.
All education majors had the opportunity to participate in a career fair featuring Christian schools. I'm not sure if I want to teach in a Christian school as my first choice, but it can be an option. I had an interview last night that opened my eyes to the possibilities of teaching overseas in a number of different countries. I could have the opportunity of teaching music in Brazil! Today I interviewed along with a fellow music education student at an Indiana school that offered an opportunity to teach elementary students and help head up the music program overall. The benefit package and insurance were superb and rare options to find in a Christian school. They boasted of a wonderful music program and they emphasized the importance of music in their school. I think I'm warming up to the fact that I could probably teach in a Christian school if that's where God wants me to be.
My fiance made up a list of twenty schools around the area that we are going to be living to help me see the opportunities closer to home. That was a huge help in seeing that teaching opportunities don't have to be limited to out of state and around the world. I'm very thankful for the chance to interview with such great schools, even though the timing may not be right yet. God is good, and He will provide. I'm still being reminded of that.
Car Rides
Day 39
I think my most "spiritual" moments are in the car, driving down the road. Today was rough. I nearly missed an important registration for potential education job interviews, realized I had a ton of work to catch up on before the start of the week, and felt like nothing had been going right for me in the education world. I am writing this update a day late because I needed the time to calm down and recollect my thoughts and emotions so I could actually focus on the good that came out of that day.
It just feels like I've been fighting the education department all year trying to get things done, paperwork turned in on time, finishing my graduation requirements properly, etc. That on top of a strenuous financial situation adds up to a stressful year, tonight in particular.
Anyway, as I was racing down the road to try to make the registration on time, I cried all the way there. It was one of those unstoppable cries. As much as I wanted to, and not smear my makeup, it was hard to stop the waterworks. But everything turned out fine. I was able to register and ended up in an interview that night.
On the way back home, I cried a little more. But at the same time, I was talking to God, asking Him to please show me where He wants me to be in life right now and in the upcoming months and years. I know I will be married and living in Ohio, but it seemed like I was missing something. As I prayed out loud, I realized I had been the commander of my life. I haven't done a great job of keeping up with any devotional, Bible reading, or accountability. God was gracious enough to make me see that. As much as I wanted to do something, change any aspect of my life now and in the future, I need to realize that it has to be in God's hands, with absolute trust in Him that He is in control. He's still showing me things, and I'm thankful that He is.
I think my most "spiritual" moments are in the car, driving down the road. Today was rough. I nearly missed an important registration for potential education job interviews, realized I had a ton of work to catch up on before the start of the week, and felt like nothing had been going right for me in the education world. I am writing this update a day late because I needed the time to calm down and recollect my thoughts and emotions so I could actually focus on the good that came out of that day.
It just feels like I've been fighting the education department all year trying to get things done, paperwork turned in on time, finishing my graduation requirements properly, etc. That on top of a strenuous financial situation adds up to a stressful year, tonight in particular.
Anyway, as I was racing down the road to try to make the registration on time, I cried all the way there. It was one of those unstoppable cries. As much as I wanted to, and not smear my makeup, it was hard to stop the waterworks. But everything turned out fine. I was able to register and ended up in an interview that night.
On the way back home, I cried a little more. But at the same time, I was talking to God, asking Him to please show me where He wants me to be in life right now and in the upcoming months and years. I know I will be married and living in Ohio, but it seemed like I was missing something. As I prayed out loud, I realized I had been the commander of my life. I haven't done a great job of keeping up with any devotional, Bible reading, or accountability. God was gracious enough to make me see that. As much as I wanted to do something, change any aspect of my life now and in the future, I need to realize that it has to be in God's hands, with absolute trust in Him that He is in control. He's still showing me things, and I'm thankful that He is.
Genuine Hearts
Day 38
After visiting my fiance and attending a young adult church service with him, I thought about what the speaker said and how he presented the message. At first, I was finding it hard to concentrate on the lyrics of the worship songs that only had two or three chords. It may have been that goofy and effective musical training I've received at college, but I lost focus and interest around the time we were repeating the chorus for the...seventh time? But the message brought me back to the service. The speaker stood up, led us in prayer, and got completely honest with us as the audience. He told of how his life had become consumed with working for the church, even on his days off and how he really wasn't feeling like he was where he needed to be in life. The passage we read was of John the Baptist speaking to the crowd before baptizing Jesus. He really nailed the people, calling them "a brood of vipers", people who turned from and rebelled against those who had taught them what they have learned. He shook them up so bad that even the non-religious listeners were asking what they needed to do to get right with how they were living.
The speaker went on to confess that he sometimes built himself up to this awesome person that God must be proud of who he was, enough to give him special duties or circumstance in life. But here he was, using even his days off to serve those in the church and the surrounding area. He said it is usually after He humbles us, do we realize that we need to follow Him more closely and listen to what He is telling us to do.
It was refreshing and humbling to hear a speaker be so open and honest with his audience. Leaders of faith, and "normal" people too, can put themselves up on such a pedestal that surely God must have a special mission for them. Me, I have put myself merely in front, in my own spotlight, without much regard or trust for God. It's a learning experience; I definitely need to work on strengthening my relationship with Him. I think that's what He's been showing me recently. Thank you, Lord, for those genuine souls who are willing to risk their dignity to help others realize their own shortcomings so that we can come to You for help.
After visiting my fiance and attending a young adult church service with him, I thought about what the speaker said and how he presented the message. At first, I was finding it hard to concentrate on the lyrics of the worship songs that only had two or three chords. It may have been that goofy and effective musical training I've received at college, but I lost focus and interest around the time we were repeating the chorus for the...seventh time? But the message brought me back to the service. The speaker stood up, led us in prayer, and got completely honest with us as the audience. He told of how his life had become consumed with working for the church, even on his days off and how he really wasn't feeling like he was where he needed to be in life. The passage we read was of John the Baptist speaking to the crowd before baptizing Jesus. He really nailed the people, calling them "a brood of vipers", people who turned from and rebelled against those who had taught them what they have learned. He shook them up so bad that even the non-religious listeners were asking what they needed to do to get right with how they were living.
The speaker went on to confess that he sometimes built himself up to this awesome person that God must be proud of who he was, enough to give him special duties or circumstance in life. But here he was, using even his days off to serve those in the church and the surrounding area. He said it is usually after He humbles us, do we realize that we need to follow Him more closely and listen to what He is telling us to do.
It was refreshing and humbling to hear a speaker be so open and honest with his audience. Leaders of faith, and "normal" people too, can put themselves up on such a pedestal that surely God must have a special mission for them. Me, I have put myself merely in front, in my own spotlight, without much regard or trust for God. It's a learning experience; I definitely need to work on strengthening my relationship with Him. I think that's what He's been showing me recently. Thank you, Lord, for those genuine souls who are willing to risk their dignity to help others realize their own shortcomings so that we can come to You for help.
Guaranteed Work
Day 37
I'm at home and I've already worked five and a half hours at the family pizza shop. I've worked there for over seven years and I've seen a lot of changes with personnel, ways of doing things, different methods of cooking the food, and different customers to get acquainted with. But there are always a few things that never change: familiar faces of the "regular" customers, the busy Friday night pizza rush, the "secret" family recipe for our pizza dough, the signature B&E sub, and the old oven and dough roller which have both seen their share of pizzas.
I know it's hard to find jobs in this economy but I am thankful that I've retained my position making pizzas. I used to hate going to work during high school but now I almost look forward to spending a weekend home, racking in some hours and salary. I still cook by the older methods that were taught to me by former employees long gone and the owners themselves. The new employees still try to change things up or "improve" on our menu items but I find the old way is still best. That's why the same customers who have ordered food from us ten years ago still show up in the dining room.
I'm thankful for the pizza shop and the work that is guaranteed if I ever need some more green in my pocket for college expenses. I don't think I realize it now, but I might miss that shop once life starts a new chapter next summer.
I'm at home and I've already worked five and a half hours at the family pizza shop. I've worked there for over seven years and I've seen a lot of changes with personnel, ways of doing things, different methods of cooking the food, and different customers to get acquainted with. But there are always a few things that never change: familiar faces of the "regular" customers, the busy Friday night pizza rush, the "secret" family recipe for our pizza dough, the signature B&E sub, and the old oven and dough roller which have both seen their share of pizzas.
I know it's hard to find jobs in this economy but I am thankful that I've retained my position making pizzas. I used to hate going to work during high school but now I almost look forward to spending a weekend home, racking in some hours and salary. I still cook by the older methods that were taught to me by former employees long gone and the owners themselves. The new employees still try to change things up or "improve" on our menu items but I find the old way is still best. That's why the same customers who have ordered food from us ten years ago still show up in the dining room.
I'm thankful for the pizza shop and the work that is guaranteed if I ever need some more green in my pocket for college expenses. I don't think I realize it now, but I might miss that shop once life starts a new chapter next summer.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Sunshine
Day 36
We got to taste the first hints of Spring these past few days and it's been so beautiful outside! Too bad it's been spent inside a school building with students or in the apartment with homework. But for the moments that I am out in the sun, I open my sunroof in my car, turn off the heat, turn up the radio, and smile as I cruise down the road in the balmy 60 degree weather. Of course, it's going to be chilly this weekend but I will gladly take the few days of sunshine that we've been able to experience.
It seems as if as soon as the cold, bland weather starts to get really old, God reminds us that Spring is just around the corner. Puts a smile on my face. Soon enough, we will be able to wear sun dresses, flipflops, and enjoy evening walks with those we love. I'm really looking forward to those continuous sunny days. It also means that the wedding is getting closer and closer, which is equally exciting.
We got to taste the first hints of Spring these past few days and it's been so beautiful outside! Too bad it's been spent inside a school building with students or in the apartment with homework. But for the moments that I am out in the sun, I open my sunroof in my car, turn off the heat, turn up the radio, and smile as I cruise down the road in the balmy 60 degree weather. Of course, it's going to be chilly this weekend but I will gladly take the few days of sunshine that we've been able to experience.
It seems as if as soon as the cold, bland weather starts to get really old, God reminds us that Spring is just around the corner. Puts a smile on my face. Soon enough, we will be able to wear sun dresses, flipflops, and enjoy evening walks with those we love. I'm really looking forward to those continuous sunny days. It also means that the wedding is getting closer and closer, which is equally exciting.
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