snapshots.

snapshots from the two month sabbatical

(see previous post for explanation)...

this is me and frank at the tattoo parlor. can you see how proud he is...sitting there thinking that he had the power to lead me to do such a crazy thing!? :) in fact, it was my idea. after thinking about it, the Lord really laid the word "hope" on my heart...and in the meantime i began exploring options for getting a "jersusalem cross" on my body. as crazy as it sounds, it is one of the coolest things i have done...because i know what it means. and i look at it every day and i just smile..because when i see it, i think of hope. i think of the hope i have in Christ and the promises that He has given me to restore, renew, and redeem. He showed me that during a dark season and i reflect on it with hope because of the redemption found in Him.

7.5 years ago when i began my career as a special education teacher, i never imagined my passion for these children and their families would lead me to this. currently i am directly involved in establishing a special needs ministry at my church. teaching sunday school with these children over the past several years as drawn out this aspect of my heart. prayerfully the Lord will have a place for me in a church one day...and until then i will trust that He will use my passion for His glory.
so, the boyfriend surprised me with favorite flowers on my birthday. beautiful tulips and a sweet message from the sweetest man i know.
and on the whirlwind tour of the upstate, ryan and i had time to enjoy the SNOW!!
our basketball team. we actually won the 5th/6th grade girls championship. they are a precious group of girls and i really enjoyed working with them (and coach ann!!) all season!