Story of my Life

So I posted the music video because it is a good song and because it is the story of my life. As opinionated as I may be, I still tend to let people push me around and tell me how to live my life. Well, I am finally at a stage where I like my life and I like myself. No more pushing me around!

Plus it doesn't hurt that every time this song comes on in Virginia a cute little 2 year old smiled at me and said, "I like this one!"

I like this one too MD!

Sara Bareilles - King Of Anything

My Job is Taxing!

If you don't like to read the rantings of Karlie Jones then stop reading now. This is my outlet to get some thoughts out today. I had a district meeting today and my mentor teacher from my 6th grade student teaching class was there. I asked him how the kids were doing and if he kept in contact with them. He told me that they are enjoying their 8th grade year and they come and visit once in a while. He then told me that one of my favorite students committed suicide at the beginning of the summer. My heart dropped to my feet and I had to go to the bathroom to have a little cry and hold it in for later when I can be alone and really let it out. This kid was going to start 8th grade! He felt so alone and lost that he felt the need to take his own life. He was also getting into gangs.
Those who know me well know that I blamed myself. I really bonded with this kid and I felt like I had made a difference in his life. It is so hard to know that you have no control over their lives as soon as they walk out of your classroom door. I get so attached to the kids and want to help them in their lives even outside of school. My job is hard! Anyone who says otherwise, I would like to see you do it for a week and then tell me how you feel.

Happy Birthday Dad!

I have been so bad about these birthday posts so I thought I would start up again. Today is my dad's birthday and I think they were more excited about it than I was because that means they get to sing happy birthday to him at work on speaker phone. I always get giddy when I do this on anyone's birthday.

So a little over 2 weeks ago my dad came and, with the help of my mom, made my house a home. He and I spent a couple hours trying to put a stubborn fan into my living room ceiling and we also put light covers on our bedroom lights and he took off our nasty wall paper. He did a lot more, but the thing we are the most grateful for is the beautiful new dishwasher. My parents are both so giving when it comes to their kids and we really appreciate it. He even left us $10 ice cream money after all they gave us.

Happy Birthday dad! Love you!

It is so nice to be missed!

Especially when the one who misses you the most is the one who you thought wouldn't miss you at all. I had a class today with the district so I had a sub. Our class got out early so I decided to run back to school and get the students' work from today so that I could grade it and not get behind. Well I walked in just as the day was ending and was almost knocked down with the hugs I received. And who should be in front, but the one boy who I thought didn't care if I was dead or alive. It was great to see the other kids too, but this gave me hope that I am getting through to him after all. I have the most rewarding profession!

I love my siblings!

Don't worry, I love my parents too, but this post is just about my siblings. I have been feeling very grateful lately and my siblings is something that I am especially grateful for.
Brendon-I love Brendon because he is quietly funny. He is not loud like me, but he can sure make a whole room of people laugh. He also loves the drama in my life like no one else does.
Ann-I love Ann because she is a quiet listener. Even when she is juggling her busy life of being a mom to a crazy energetic 2 year old, I feel like she listens to me and makes time to listen to me. She and I have had many deep conversations where she just listened and didn't judge.
Trevor-I love Trevor because he trusts me. He has always trusted me from the time he was little and he trusts my opinion and takes it into consideration. We have always had a special bond that way.
Rachel-I love Rachel because she is incredible at giving compliments. I always feel like the most beautiful accomplished woman when I am with her. She makes everyone feel amazing.
Katie-I love Katie because she puts up with me. Being her roommate now she has come to know so many more of my flaws that I have as an adult. She still loves me and is patient with me and I am grateful for that.

I really got so lucky with my choice of siblings and am so grateful for them in my life and all they do for me.

I am not excited or anything!

I just wanted to point out that it is now 9 WEEKS until I have a nephew! I can't wait to meet him even if it will be over skype!