Yes, I am still here...

Whew...a new school year is underway now and I can tell that it is going to be a great one. I cannot believe that we have already been in school for 13 days now. The first few weeks are tough.....getting twenty-one six year olds adjusted to a totally new schedule and routine can be quite overwhelming, but I would not have it any other way.

I have been blessed with the job of leading twenty-one little first graders to the cross each day. Our day begins by sitting at the feet of Jesus and learning from HIS word. These children amaze me with their trust in HIM and I am so touched by their innocence and sincere approach to the throne.

Today, we celebrated the our first day since school began of EVERYONE in our classroom making Kingdom Choices. One little girl said, "Well, I have been praying for that and God answered my prayer! I knew HE would!" Is that not precious? ( I said "Thank you - let's start praying for another one!)

There are many lessons to be delievered and many to be learned this year. I have a student who suffers from CP. She has learned to walk on forearm crutches this summer and can I just tell you that she has taught me more about life in 13 days than I will probably teach her all year. She is amazing and determined and I cannot wait to see how God is going to continue to use her to bless the other children in our classroom by her example. What a lesson in compassion, friendship and kindness that we have gained from her already! She and I have already talked about how one day she is going to be able to walk with Jesus on shiny streets of gold - to which she replied, "No, Mrs Staples, I am going to run and dance with Jesus!"

Who else gets to experience what I get to experience each day? What a privilege I have been given! I just know in my heart, it is going to be another great year!

I promise to post more often....I miss you!