31.

I've discovered that life is always busy. There is always something to take your time, something to finish. It has been a busy month, but a good month.

In my last update, I told you about the class combination. Overnight I went from a class size of about 15 to a class size of 28. That was quite a transition. Learning to manage such a large class has taken a few weeks. I finally felt like I had things under control...until this past week. Last Tuesday I was enjoying a nice extra hour of free time while the students were at art. The office secretary knocked at my door and introduced me to my new student from Texas. He was displaced from hurricane Ike.

Deep breath. 29. I can handle 29. I have 30 desks, after all.

That same afternoon, I learned of the possibility of one of the fourth grade students being moved to the 5th grade (long story). There was to be a meeting Friday to make the decision. The teachers and principal agreed that it was a bad idea...However, the final decision would be up to the parents. I was out of town for the meeting, but received a phone call that evening. The student would move to 5th grade on Monday (today).

30?!?! I did NOT sign up for this.

This morning on the way to work, I was praying...begging God to help me. He reminded me that this job...at this school, in this city, was HIS idea. Not mine. That means that HE will give me what I need to survive...and not only survive, but succeed. He has to. "But...but...there isn't enough time in the day! I don't have enough time, enough energy. How can I love 30 kids all day and still have love for my husband at the end of the day? I'll run out." Unfortunately, He wouldn't let me off that easily. He reminded me that if I love students with His love, I will still be overflowing at the end of the day. He will give me what I need. He has to.

Well....after school today, I found out that yet another student would be moving from the 4th grade to 5th grade. This student was supposed to be placed in the 5th grade to begin with, but when she moved, her test scores were...lost. They have now been found, and it turns out that she passed the test and should have passed to the 5th grade. She will move grades by the end of the week.

31.

God will provide for all of my needs. Don't worry, I still love my job. Today was still a wonderful day! Please keep me in your prayers! I need all the support I can get!