today ...

I officially became one of these ...

and while I know that teaching is by far the hardest thing I've ever done.

and while I am not the most knowledgable biology teacher on the block.

and while my living room floor currently looks like this (a week before classes even start):

and I'm already tired. 

STILL:

I am so excited ...

about new markers :-)

and new ministries (in a school district remarkably open to the gospel!)

and new opportunities.

about making a difference in a place where I might be the only one who can.

It scares me.  And it thrills me.  And I still marvel at all of the "but Gods ..." of this whole thing.  As God began to unfold his "next" plans for me, I never, ever envisioned the peace and the provision that would come.  It's not been easy.  Ironically, it's been one of the hardest things I've ever done, but also one of the sweetest.  I feel kind of like Abraham, shaking and questioning and wondering what God was thinking when I turned to find my "ram" in the bushes.

Who wants to pray with me for the kids God is gonna give me to round out this new adventure?  One more week ... (gonna need every minute of it!)