"Love of Reading" - My Favorite Commercial

Back to the Routine...

To say that Ben and I had the best vacation of our lives in Prague, Czech Republic, is an understatement. We had the time of our lives. My absolute favorite had to have been the Charles Bridge, but I also enjoyed Old Town and the Castle. Photos uploaded soon will help give you some of an idea of how it was, but it really is hard to put into words what a great time we had. The first few days I had blisters on my toes and my legs were severely sore from walking on the uneven cobblestone, but the pain didn't keep me from walking each day. We even met a couple from Toronto, Ontario, and travelled with them outside of Prague for a day to go see the Bone Church in Kutna Hora. Part way through out vacation in Prague, a family from our church - the Sherrards who were also going to Ukraine, arrived and we spent some time with them. It's amazing how you can be in a church for 4 years and not really know someone until you get to share a neat experience with them. We really bonded with that family, and we're grateful that the Lord enabled us to do so.

Odessa, Ukraine was a completely different but equally rewarding experience. Once again, it's hard to put everything into words. I'd just have to say that I wasn't as sad when I said my good-byes, because I know that I'll be going back again someday - whether it be on another short term trip or long term, only the Lord knows, but Ben and I definitely want to go back. Our missions team not only worked at Hope House doing construction, but we connected with the children there, interacted with street kids from First Step, and spent time with the young ladies of Shepherd's home. Our team was challenged in a variety of ways. When I finally post some pictures I will go into more detail and explain some of what we experienced.

Now I am trying to get into a routine with my new job. I don't have my own classroom this year as I am a Literacy teacher. I am definitely just as busy as before, but in a different way. I really enjoy working with small groups of children. This position definitely has its challenges. Not only am I the youngest Literacy teacher on the district, I am the least experienced. I remember looking around the room at the other Literacy teachers on the district and thinking, "Lord? What am I doing here? Remind me how I got this position again?" I figure God has a reason for me being in the position I am in. I absolutely love it thus far, but when I think of the task that is laid out before me, sometimes I feel small and inadequate. I know God will give me the strength to do the work that He has placed me in.

I am currently battling a cold, and I just got over the flu. You can imagine how frustrated I was to have to take a day off of school this early in the year because of the stomach flu, only to return to school to know that discussion in the staff room the day before was, "Maybe she's pregnant." The first two people I saw when I walked to my office that day mentioned it to me in a joking manner. I'm tired of the jokes folks. I know you mean well, but it's been two years, and so, as politely as I can, I tell people that Ben and I have wanted children for two years but it hasn't happened, and so we are trusting the Lord and His timing, but we also have plans to look into adoption. When they say, "Maybe you're thinking about it too much," I want to say, "I wouldn't have to think about it if I wasn't reminded by people who ask me about it, joke to me about it, or try to give me unwanted advice about it," but instead I politely say, "I've made my peace with the Lord." And I have. In the meantime, it's the comments that I continually have to hand over to Him, because I've accepted the possibility that I could be barren. Just last week someone (not from work) said to me, "You need to suck in that belly unless you have a reason to let it hang out like that!" I just said, "No. I'm just fat, that's all." They gave me a side hug as they were teasing me, but was it really necessary? As for my "belly" you'll see pictures of me and wonder what in the world they were taking about. Perhaps it's my open personality that makes me so prone to such things. I really don't know. But I do know that the Lord has a child for me, and if that child be on the other side of the world, He will lead me to that child.

I really am a blessed person. This past summer reminded me of how blessed I truly am. I look forward to seeing what the Lord has in store for me in the days to come.

Summer Happenings.

This is just a quick update. I haven't been able to keep up with everyone's blogs partly because I've been away and partly because Ben and I don't have internet at home for the summer because we've been away a lot.

Summer has been flying by - I've been to Beulah, Grand Manan, Sussex, and Boston. While at Beulah I had the joy of hearing about my 3 year old niece's dream in which giants were trying to get her, so she called on Jesus and He saved her from them. I love that childlike faith. Baby Owen (my brother and sister-in-law's baby) finally made an appearance and he is so precious! My brother is such an excited daddy and fascinated with his new little blessing. I will be posting pictures soon. Please keep baby Owen in your prayers as he does have to have a brace put on him for at least six weeks due to his hip and legs. A week from today Ben and I will be on a plane to Prague for a weeks vacation and then we'll meet up with our team for Ukraine. It hasn't really sunk in yet that we're going. I'm a little nervous about the flight although I've been on planes many a time before. Should Ben and I cross your minds during the month of August please say a prayer for us. We won't be home until August 26. It's been neat how the Lord has been providing for our trip. Just this week a new couple that moved to our area and is attending our church donated some money for us.

We received our first letter from a child we're sponsering in Africa. It was so exciting! I love writing letters "the old fashioned way." If you knew me and wrote to me during my teenage years you would've received many a decorated envelope.

I've started the final Harry Potter book (finally!) and intend on finishing it before I leave for Prague.

I've been running into a lot of good friends throughout the summer. It's great. Thus far I've been living it up and just being free with life.

I apologize for the short and vague post, but I assure you that once I return from my trip, I'll be able to fill you in on some more happenings.

Gratitude

I think it's finally settling in. The fact that I've been offered a job as a Literacy Specialist for the District. The fact that it's a "B" contract which guarantees me work every year in this area. The fact that I'll get to work with small groups of elementary students, middle school students, and work with challenging teachers. Yes, the Lord has provided for me. I never dreamed I would be offered this honorable position. I feel inadequate, nervous, and very excited all at once. My heart is filled with gratitude for what the Lord has done in my life in such a short time.

I also have a heart of gratitude for the husband God has provided for me. June 21st marked 4 years for us and due to my job I had to work for 1/2 the day. Then we went to a high school graduation in the afternoon and a staff party in the evening. Now I sit here burning CDs with pictures, video, and other things that I put together for my students with my husband's help. It's funny. Before I worked full time, and even still sometimes, I feel like I'm married to the church. I'm beginning to realize though, that he must feel like he's married to the school. I'm driven to do well with my job just as he is driven to do well with his. This week there have been a lot of things to work on - getting the classroom cleaned, paperwork...and so I've been burning the midnight oil while he has gone to bed. Last week it was just the opposite. He was burning the midnight oil working on stuff for church while I went to bed. It isn't always like this. We do make time for each other, and typically we go to bed at the same time. I am; however, looking forward to summer...Prague is really our anniversary gift and Ukraine, our first missions trip together, will be the icing on the cake. I am so grateful for Ben's love, support, and encouragement. He and I are so fitted for each other.

Finally, I would like to express gratitude for the kinds words people have given me concerning having children. I didn't take time to thank you all before, but please allow me to do so now. Thank you for listening. I think I'm beginning to understand now...why I'm not yet a mom.

And so I sit here with a heart full of gratitude, pondering life and what's happening in it, anxiously awaiting the freedom of summer, and looking forward to what is in store for Ben and me in the Ukraine.

This week...

This week...

I've been told by a student, "I want out of this "s...hole" as he stormed out of my classroom. Never before has he talked to me this way.

I've been backtalked to.

I've had a student rip up assignments at least once a day.

I've had the same student disobey me, run off down the hallway, slam her desk on the floor, test me, try me...

I've had extra pressure because of Provincial Assessments. Three times my classroom was interupted by adults who should have known better despite a "Provincial Testing. Please do not interupt sign."

I've cried...but not in front of my class.

This week...

I've spent time with God in the mornings before I've gone to work.

I've tried to be more disciplined with my time.

I've chuckled with my nieces at church.

I've spent time with church friends.

I've spent time preparing for our VBS in the warm company of some church family, my sister, and my husband.

I've received unexpected "pick-me-ups" from friends.

I've had some students hug me.

I've been told, "You're the best Mrs. Canney."

I've been encouraged by some of the students' parents.

I've realized the fragility of the students who have tried to test me, and I've realized the urge to pray for the sake of their future.

I've savoured my walks in the school hallways in the stillness of the mornings.

I've laughed with my colleagues.

I've laughed with my class.


The positives outweigh the negatives.

Missions Trip Letter

Ben and I are sending out support letters informing some family and friends of our trip. Should any of you want to support us whether it be through prayer or financially, I just thought I'd post this on-line. I'll be blogging in a more personal format as the trip approaches.

May 2007

Dear friends,

We hope that this letter finds you and your family well and that you are experiencing God’s blessing on your life.

We are writing to share with you about an exciting opportunity that we have to serve Christ in Odessa, Ukraine. From August 14-25 of this year, we will have the privilege of being a part of a World Hope International mission’s team. Our team will be involved in a variety of ministries that will include working with children who come to the First Step Centre (a centre that helps support street children) and doing construction at Hope House (a place that provides housing for street children.) The ladies on the team will also be taking supplies to teach young girls how to make cards and other things which can provide a small income for them. We will be working with missionaries Kerry and Carole Allison.

We are very excited about this ministry, but we need your help to do it! First of all, we need your prayers. Without prayer nothing spiritual can happen. Secondly, we need to raise close to $6000 to cover the cost for both of us. We have already raised some of the required $6000 through fund-raising and covered some of the necessary expenses needed with our own income. Please ask God if He wants you to give in support of this ministry. Your contribution would be tax deductible and receipts would be issued. Checks should be made to World Hope and sent to: World Hope Canada, PO Box 8115, Station A, Halifax, NS, B3K 5L8 for those wanting Canadian tax receipts. For US donor’s checks should be sent to Horizons Foundation (who have partnered with World Hope in helping the children in Ukraine), P.O. Box 6022, St. Charles, MO 63302. In the memo section of your check write Ukraine Missions Team. A note accompanying your check can identify that it is to apply to Ben and Sarah Canney’s mission trip costs, but this information should not be on the check itself.

Thank you so much for taking time to read this letter. Please know that the money is not as important to us as your prayers are. This will be our first mission’s trip together, and we both believe that the Lord will use it to impact our lives in a significant way. We know that God will provide a way for us to go as he has laid this opon our hearts. It is your prayers and encouragement that will strengthen us in this ministry opportunity.

God Bless,


Ben and Sarah

World Hope’s Commitment to Financial Accountability:
Spending of donated funds is confined to Board approved programs and projects. Contributions designated towards a project or a volunteer missionary’s support will be used as designated, with the understanding that when the need has been met, or cannot be completed for any reason determined by the Board, the remaining contributions will be used by World Hope for other relief efforts where most needed.

Alone with my Laptop

Somebody must have been praying for me today. As I sat in the midst of a meeting concerning a student who had a major blow out with behaviour last week, I was asked, "Sarah, what are you willing to do concerning this student?" You must understand that after Wednesday of last week, I was struggling with feelings toward this student. I am not at liberty to say everything that happened, but let's just say that I had to lock my classroom door. One thing I can recount is that student snarkily saying, "I hate you Mrs. Canney!" to which I responded, "I love you too!" at this the students found great amusement. I have never been one to hold a grudge, and so as I sat there in today's meeting, the Lord reminded me of my love for this student - one of my own kids who I've invested in this year. I responded to that question,"what are you willing to do...?" with "Whatever it takes." I will do whatever it takes to help this student. I refuse to give up or give in, or say this student is a lost cause. Teaching isn't about me, it's about those kids. Those kids who may get more time with me than with their parents. Those kids who love being at school because it feels safer than home. Those kids who the only hug they may receive that day could be from me. Let's face it. The majority of kids in the system today come from broken families and with that comes a lot of baggage. I know someone was praying for me, because the rest of the day I had an incredible peace. Tuesdays are often hectic for me because I'm on duty, but I was at peace, so I was fine. Tomorrow I have a meeting that will involve administration, the parents and the student. I'm a bit nervous, but I know the Lord will be my strength and my song.

I survived Mother's Day :) I knew I would. I only had one comment about, "Sarah's not on stage. Could that mean she's expecting?" because we had an all men's praise team with the exception of a young lady home from college who led the worship. The comment was a joking one, and I was able to handle it. I managed to hold myself together when all of the mother's stood and I sat. Apart from that I had a woman who was once in my position give me a hug and share some tender words of encouragement. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me. And so I write this not as a "woe is me this is my sob story" but as a praise to the Lord for the work He is doing in me. Some teaching positions have been posted for the fall already, and I am looking into applying for them. I have contemplated getting my Masters, but I really don't know if that's what I'm to do at this time. And so I will pray and wait. My loan will be paid off this week and I have to praise God for his provision and blessing. Weeks like this when I'm overwhelmed with marking that I'm behind on and extra meetings, can be trying, but I know someone is praying for me. I know there are those who pray for me regularly, but God must have really impressed me on someone's mind today. I don't know who, but I can feel it in my heart because of how my day went.

And so I sit here at home alone while my husband is at youth, wishing I could be with him but working away - scanning children's pictures for their fairytale stories that will be published on the computer, lesson planning, marking speeches, contemplating tomorrow's meeting as to what I need to say and just thinking about my life in general - thankful for the prayers of someone who knew that I needed some extra help today to carry me through the week.

The Four M's - Missions Trip, Mother's Day, Me, and May

Missions Trip - Remember how excited I was about the lay-over in Vienna for our missions trip to Ukraine? "Ben and I are going to visit Rome," I've been telling people in such a delighted voice. Well, today, Ben informed me that the lay-over is now in Warsaw, Poland. LOL. I'm sorry, but what sounds more alluring to you - Vienna or Warsaw? "Yeah, I'm going to Warsaw for a week." I have been looking online though and it looks like there are some pretty sights there; however, it will take me a bit to get over my disappointment!

Mother's Day - Four years ago I thought I'd be a mom by now, but I'm not. So once again I'll remain seated while the mother's proudly stand and receive their carnations. (It's not the carnations I'm disappointed about - LOL) I wonder how many people will joke about me being pregnant this Sunday? If I sound bitter, I'm not...Let's just say that the "When are you going to have children?" "That baby looks good on you." "You guys need a baby." comments are starting to frustrate me. If only people knew...I don't need you to ask me how long we've wanted to have children, to try and relate, or to recommend some book to me. I don't need your sympathy either. I just need some respect and understanding. I'm at peace with God, and I know that HIS timing is everything. Had I been a mom, I would've missed out on my 24 kids at school this year whom I've become very attached to. I also wouldn't be going to the Ukraine, and I know that the Lord wants me there this summer. He has something to show me, to teach me, to shape me. He's working on me right now, making me the person who I need to be, and equipping me with the tools I need for when I do become a mom - because I will be someday.

Me - Life is crazy right now - There's something going on every weekend. One of my colleagues said to me, "Sarah, you have two full-time jobs - your teaching and your role as a pastor's wife." I'm realizing more and more how true that is. I love my husband and my life. I am looking forward to summer vacation, but I do have concerns about my class and how some of them will adjust to middle school next year. Will they become children that I don't recognize? Will they remember the pep talks I've had with them? I hope they realize just how proud I am of them. I'm already thinking about writing them little notes of encouragement for the end of the year.

May - May is a crazy month. I literally have something I have to be at every weekend. I am excited about these events of course, but June is looking like a delightful time to "slow down" (yeah, like that's possible for me!)

Certainties and Uncertainties

Sitting in a booth at the Big Stop after a long day at work, my husband Ben and I sit facing each other waiting for an order of soup and chicken nachos. He can hardly wait to tell me his exciting news. I wait, bracing myself for what he will say. You see, Ben is a dreamer and a thrill seeker. I, on the other hand, am not. Yes, I can dream, but my dreams are more, shall we say, realistic? As for “thrills,” the type of thrills I derive are from a trip to the mall, a walk to get ice cream, or a day at the beach. The “thrill” type experiences that Ben enjoys involve heights, heights, and heights. I have tried rock wall climbing and have overcome my fear of heights because of Ben. I have yet to repel down a cliff, but he and his friend Tim are bound and determined to get me there.

Ben proceeded to tell me that he is going to become a certified scuba diver thanks to a man who goes to the Baptist church offering him a deal he can't refuse. So my husband is not only going to repel off of cliffs, he’s going to swim under water with the fish. Now his thrills involve heights and depths. I, on the other hand, will continue to be the observer, although I must admit that I think I’ll find the scuba gear more amusing than then the climbing gear.

After his exciting news I preceded to tell him about my uncertainties with a job for the fall. I’ve been fortunate to have a year contract, but with teachers who have better contracts returning from maternity leave and such, it’s hard to know whether or not I’ll have full time work. I love being a teacher. I take great pride in investing myself in children. I’ve become very attached to my group of 24 this year. Like he usually does, Ben just looked at me and loved me saying, “You need to put everything in God’s hands. Look at how He’s provided for us this year.” And God has. Ben’s loan was paid off at the end of 2006. Mine will be paid off in June of this year along with the car. After one year of teaching we will be debt free. That’s something only the Lord could do because He enabled me to receive a job in September after I just received my BEd. So why should I worry about tomorrow? Why should I be so anxious after all He has done for me? He knows what the future holds. He knows whether or not I should have full time work teaching in the Fall, and if not, then He knows that there are students who I need to be in contact with while substitute teaching.

And so, while I learn to wait on the Lord, I’ll enjoy the amusement He sends my way through my 24 (or should I say 25…Ben??) kids.

A Sobering Day

It was a bitter cold wind. Tired I stood clutching the hand of my husband and wiping back tears as the military soldiers took the casket out of the hearse and lifted it onto their shoulders. Step by step, they gently carried it to its final resting place. As the wind whipped my hair and tousled my skirt, I remember thinking that it wasn’t so bad standing in that wind. I was alive. I am alive. Silence. Nobody said a word. We just stood and watched. From a distance I could see the casket over the crowd of people, and then it was lowered. Amazing grace played by the bagpipes. More silence, but I knew from afar the last words were being said as a soldier was being laid to rest. Taps played on the bugle. Silence. Gun solutes.

I never knew Cpl. Aaron E. Williams personally. I know his mom. She works as a Teacher’s Aid at my school, and she is one of the most delightfully people you could meet. She wore red every Friday – even around St. Patrick’s Day. “I’m supporting my boy,” she said proudly. He was her youngest. Her only son among four children. Cpl. William’s dad is a bus driver for our community schools.

23 years old. Prior to standing outside in the cold I sat through a memorable service for a man whom I would have liked to have met. He was to be married in October to his high school sweetheart. As his parents and fiancé walked by me at the beginning of the service, Cpl. William’s 2 ½ year old blond haired little angel was hanging on to her grampy’s neck. Does she understand? How do you tell a 2 ½ year old girl that daddy isn’t going to be home again? Who’s going to teach her how to ride a bike? Who will protect her from those sneaky teenage boys? Who will give her away when she is to be married?

My trials seem so small when I think about that 2 ½ year old little girl. I still have my dad, my mom, my whole family. I know I will wonder about her for the rest of my life, and in turn remember her father, the man whom she could’ve known, but didn’t get to know.

He didn’t have to go to Afghanistan. He volunteered to go. I am thankful for him and the others who have given their lives to fight for freedom and a better world. As I sit in my warm cushy apartment praying for a better world, men and women are out there risking their lives trying to make it a better one.

I was reminded today that life is short. Live each day to the fullest.

Teacher Anxiety Dreams and My New Student

Well, last night I had what I refer to as "Teacher Anxiety Dreams." In my first dream, my new student showed up at school as a grown man, taller than me, and I was standing there wondering, "How in the world am I going to handle this one?" In my second dream, my new student came in and he wanted to teach the class. I let him do so and things got out of hand, so I had to try and regain control of the class to which he replied, "This is going to be booooooooooring."

I walked into my class today to find a short 9 year old boy with glasses, and I immediately knew that my anxiety dreams were (as usual) just that - foolish worry over nothing. He is highly intelligent as they told me, and he is as cute as a button. Despite his immaturity during class (not staying on task while working independently in math - stretching and the like, and trying to keep his nose stuck in a book - he's reading at grade 11 level if not highter), I can't help but like the kid and his silly mannerisms. I think the class gets a kick out of him too. He dropped his pencil and it broke somehow to which he exlaimed, "OH NO! My pencil fell apart!" My favorite was when I asked him if his last name was spelled correctly off the top of my head for information on the computer and he said, "Whoa! How were you able to spell my last name so fast?" In some ways his overenthusiasm reminds me of myself at times - of course - I am just getting to know the kid, so as the days go by I'll have a better idea of what I'm in for, but I think I'm in for a treat.

A Few Happenings in My Life...

Well I found out that UMPI is now offering a Masters program. It sounds like it will be a flexible one (after school hours) for those who teach full time. This might be something I possibly pursue depending on some other things that I've been waiting on the Lord for, so I guess in prayer, time will certainly tell.

I had a tough day today at school. Yesterday was parent-teacher which made for a long day - of course the parents that I wanted to see didn't show up. My day ended with me finding out that I'll be receiving a new student - but he's supposed to be in fourth grade. It's a long story - one which I don't want to recount right now. New students make me nervous - especially at this point in the year - I really like my classroom dynamics - and one student can change everything. I'm told he's highly intelligent but very busy...Hmm...Perhaps I'll keep you posted.

My piano is now tuned - Hip! Hip! HOORAY! I haven't had it tuned since we moved in here four years ago - I've been holding out hoping that we'd find a bigger place - shame on me. The Lord has taught me how to be content with my little abode, and so it was time for a tuning (on my piano that is). Dan the piano man did a good job as always.

I just got off the phone with a friend about a prayer request. My heart's a bit heavy.

I'm going to get ready for bed because it's been a very long day.

My Celebrity Look-alikes

My cool celebrity look-alike collage from MyHeritage.com. Get one for yourself.

5 Things

1. I'm officially hooked on Facebook. I love it! I'm still trying to convince Ben to join.
2. I tried out the celebrity look-a-likes thing after reading Mark and Liz's blogs. Believe it or not, Kayne West was one of my so called look alikes, but I opted to post the women look alikes instead.
3. I have math and spelling tests to mark, but I'm procrastinating (shame shame)
4. I love eating Big Turks.
5. Only 3 months left of school before summer vacation - woo hoo! I love my students, but I'm ready for a break.

A little bit of everything...

Well, last week I was in much turmoil due to some things that Ben and I were praying through. Tuesday I called my Aunt Sheila for wise council as I shared my burden with her. By the time I got off the phone, I had the most incredible peace, and I slept the best that I had in a long time that evening. By the end of Friday, the Lord continued to astound me by enabling something to happen that I didn't expect. All I can say is, "Wow." I'm still amazed.

This week I have had some other obstacles to overcome in dealing with some students at school. The thing about teaching is that every day has an unpredictability of outcomes. I have writing assignments to mark, report cards to grade...I'm soooo tired! I just need a day to work on things and this weekend will be busy as there will be a birthday party for my niece Arianna. Oh to have a snow day...

On the humorous side of life, Ben and I know that spring time is arriving because our annual snow flea killing tally is up and running. Last year I won, but thus far he has proven to be in the lead. I find myself constantly scanning a room in hopes that I'll spot one of the harmless black critters sauntering along my ceiling or wall. We've also spotted some silverfish (oh joy). No matter how clean we keep this apartment, they still like to venture out and annoy me. Ben is better at killing them then me - I'm too slow when it comes to getting the little critters. Oh how they mock me!

I'll close by saying that 10 years ago this evening, I was Miss NHS, and Ben was my escort to the pageant dance. What a ride it has been! I love him more each day. I'm so blessed!

Update on Doc Taylor and Pat

This was posted on my cousin Selinda's blog. She is serving in Africa as well.

Another Traumatic Event

I wish I could say that all was well in Swaziland, but I can't.
Indeed it is better for some than others, unfortunately I bring some
not-so-happy news after talking with Dave and Pat Taylor this
morning. About 2 am this past Monday morning the same two men, that
broke into the Taylor's house, ransacked it and tried to kill Dave
about 2 1/2 weeks ago, returned for another round. They broke
through the security bars on the office window and cleaned out what
was accessable. Then being unable to get to the rest of the house
because of a new security gate in the hallway, the men went back
outside and came in through the security bars in the spare bedroom
window. Their second entry woke the Taylors up and Dave looked
through the keyhole in the door and saw a shadow. At that he told
Pat to phone the neighbours for help and he no sooner got his
shoulder to the door when the men, using a crowbar, tried to get into
their bedroom. Both of them screamed as much as they could for help
and when the men couldn't get in, they gave up and ran off.
The Taylors were just dealing with the first traumatic situation and
now have another one on top. At this they have packed what
possessions they have left and are flying for Canada tomorrow morning
(March 15). How can one feel safe in their own home after all this
and with those men still on the loose. No one can blame them for
this, but it hurts to see them go under such conditions. They need
our prayers now more than ever before. Thank you for praying for
them these past few weeks and thank you for continuing to lift them
up in prayer. Pray for speedy healing from emotional wounds and also
pray for safe flights/travels. I forwarded notes I received about
people praying for them and they were encouraged by the number of
people praying for them.

Back to School!

Today it was back to work. The highlight of my day: I found a note on my desk. It was on a wrinkled corner torn off piece of looseleaf and it said, "*Student name* is to go to ________'s house for a birthday party. Bus #19. *Gaurdian Signature*" I knew it wasn't written by his gaurdian.

Reason number one: She wouldn't write it on a crumpled corner piece of paper. Reason number two: I found it AFTER lunch by an actual note written by another parent whose son was going to the party.
Reason number three: Let's just say that this particular student has a bad track record....

So I had the secretary phone home to check things out, and my suspicion's were right. At the end of the school day he exclaimed he was going to the party. "Where's my bus pass? I had a note."

"No you didn't," I replied. "I suspected it was your writing and it was confirmed when I had your house phoned. You're not going." He looked pretty sad. Needless to say, his guardian managed to show up right before the buses were loaded and give him a note to go. I mean really? Let's reward him for LYING to his TEACHER??? Whether or not he was actually invited is beyond me. Despite the fact that no moral lesson is being taught by his home (he's the type of kid who apparently can do "no wrong"), I found the whole thing somewhat amusing.

March...Break?

I got to be a housewife again today. Between yesterday and today I've cooked for my hubby and cleaned - BIG TIME (Spring cleaning...doing it early because my job can be demanding at times) - I washed walls, scrubbed floors, cleaned out cupboards...I even packed away my snowmen and took out my gerber daisies and ivy. Tomorrow it'll be back into the school to do some marking, planning, and work on report cards so that I won't have to think about it towards the end of the week. I intend on cooking a pork roast tomorrow as I'm taking delight in spoiling my husband this week (usually I'm too tired to do much cooking or baking of any kind). I'm going to take some time for me too, I just haven't figured out what to do yet (apart from already having watched the 5 hour version of "Pride and Prejudice"...I love how they speak...and their dresses...and of course Mr.Darcy...I remember Ben walked clear out to Sussex Corner during college once to say some lines of Shakespeare to me...how I'd like to hear him say some of those verses again! I'm convinced I could've been quite content to have been born in the days when speech seemed to be much more poetic).

I'm not quite as down in the dumps this week, but I am still sifting and praying through some things. My husband isn't quite as melancholy which is a help. He had to preach twice this past weekend as Ryan and Maridel are away on vacation. He's grown so much in his preaching. I enjoy listening to him speak, and I don't get nervous for him anymore :)

Well I must go get ready for an outing - we've been invited out for turkey dinner!

Three Things

1. Lori (Geldart) Crouse has a blog now: http://lorislatest.blogspot.com/

2. Ben us put his final video about his ice castle on his my space (check out my link)

3. I'm feeling "down in the dumps" due to some things that have occurred this week.

Personal Update from Doc Taylor

For a recent update on how Doc and his wife are doing, please go here:

http://www.naznet.com/community/showthread.php?t=9882

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST FOR DOC TAYLOR AND HIS WIFE

This was posted on my cousin Selinda's blog this past Tuesday. I figured I'd post it here in case some of you hadn't heard about Doc Taylor and his wife.

Please pray for Dave & Pat Taylor. He used to teach at Bethany Bible College and they are both dear friends of mine. They are now missionaries here in Swaziland and live only 30 minutes away. Two men broke into their house last Friday night, ransacked it, and took everything of any value, right down to his tennis shoes. This whole thing took about a half an hour. They hacked Doc with a bush knife in the head and neck, knocking him unconscious, then the men grabbed Pat and demanded money, cell phone, etc. with a threat to her life made with each. The Taylor's think that the men thought they had killed Doc and kept threatening to do to Pat what they did to him. When they left, Doc had come to and ran next door for help. Physically they are both doing fine and thankful to be alive, but they are very traumatized and afraid to go back to their house. They will get through this, but it will take a lot of time and prayer to deal with everything and get back to normal life.

Skating with my lovable Niece!!

This past Saturday I had a wonderful time skating with my niece Sheridan. What's even better was that the public skate wasn't publicized that well, and apart from about four children we had the rink practically to ourselves! It was so much fun! We pretended to be cars, we pretended to be cooking supper...we both fell once and laughed. I had such a blast. Uncle Ben put together two videos, and so we decided to let you vote on which one you like best. They're of the same footage, but one has nice sappy music to it (my and Maridel's favorite), and the other one has typical sports music. The video is only about a minute long. You'll have to go to this my My Space page to see them (and for those of you who aren't familiar with My Space - you know who you are...you'll need to press the "pause" button on the music button first in order to hear the music on the videos) The clarity isn't as clear as a regular video would be because my hubby had to down the size of them - but you'll get the idea! Happy voting!

http://www.myspace.com/waterspiller (or click on "Sarah's My Space" on the link bar)

Some other exciting news: I submitted a SmartBoard lesson to the District in hopes of "winning" one for my school/classroom as they have 60 that they wanted to give out, and I won one!!! They'll be installing it in my classroom in March. Two other teachers from our school received one. That's three SmartBoards for our school!! God has been so good to me :)

King of the Castle

I'm about the eat my words...my husband has been working on an "ice castle" that I never dreamed would happen. You must understand, in our four years of marriage these are a few things he's "dreamed" of building and talked about:

a one man helicopter
a boat
a rock wall on the back of the church

and now an ice castle...but it's actually taking shape. Check out his My Space for some videos:

http://www.myspace.com/crazypipedream

Never a dull moment in my household...

It's a Boy!

I just received news that Brent and Amanda's baby is a healthy baby boy! They're naming him Owen Douglas. The doctor tested for a number of things. He said that there was a one in (something hundred - I'm not sure) chance that the baby could have downs or something of that nature and that there was a 60% chance the baby was fine. He said that usually if something was wrong it would've shown up by now on the ultrasound. He also said it wouldn't hurt to keep on praying though - so by all means please do. Kayla your OB was right. Amanda said that were she to do it again, she wouldn't have had that test, but being a nurse we think she may have been pressured to take it.

Owen Douglas will be the first grandson on our side of the family, and I'm sure he'll be spoiled.

Thanks for your prayers!

8 AM Thursday Morning

I was talking to my mom last night. She said that my brother took a few days off of work because of worrying about the baby. From what I understand, he and Amanda headed for Saint John today because their appointment is tomorrow and they didn't want to travel through the winter storm. Their appointment is tomorrow at 8 AM.

I appreciate your prayers.

On a brighter note, Ben surprised me with Chinese food and a dozen roses after school today. I also discovered that one of my fifth grade boys thinks I'm "cute" to which I replied when a girl told me the info, "Why thanks. My husband thinks I'm cute too!"

MAJOR PRAYER REQUEST

My brother and his wife are expecting their first baby this July. This is something we've all been really excited about. The results of a bloodtest for the baby have just come back and weren't good. They indicate that the baby may have downs syndrome. As you can well imagine, this is tough news to comprehend. They have to go in for some tests on Thursday, and I'm asking that you pray that things will be fine with the baby. I'd really appreciate your prayers concerning this matter. The Lord has really worked in their lives, and this will definitely be a test of their faith. That's all I can write right now. I just received the news.

Thanks.

No Relief From a Friday...

You wouldn't believe the things that have gone wrong in my life this week.

Last night as Ben and I were driving to the church to decorate the the Valentine's Banquet/Ukraine Fundraiser I said to him, "I don't think it could get any worse...unless of course someone died."

Well, we arrived home last night to find out that our neighbour (who lived under us in our apartment with his wife) died. We knew his time was near as he has been in ICU for a long time. Ben will most likely be assisting with the funeral.

Poor Ben has been looking forward to Tim Branscombe coming to visit us all week, and now we're not sure what's going to happen with funeral and visitation arrangements. I also have a full plate of my own with some deadlines and teaching preparation, coupled with this banquet (I'm in charge of the program/entertainment). I guess that's just life - when it rains, it pours.

Could it get any worse? I'm not about to ask that question, because I know that it could...

UPDATE: The banquet was a hit, and Ben bought me grey and blue comfy pants in Grand Falls today (he had to go for a guitar lesson). My comfy pants make me smile so much, I think I'll be able to do my happy dance soon. Could the sun be trying to pop out from behind the clouds?

Is It Friday Yet???

Last Friday I told a student who has a hard time finishing his homework that if he came to school on Monday with an assignment finished that he claimed he'd do over the weekend (I don't typically assign homework on the weekends but he had missed some time that week), that I'd do my "happy" dance. This past Monday morning he slapped it down on my desk and said, "There you go Mrs. Canney." So I had to do my happy dance in front of the class.

Tuesday I had a blah day and the kids were kept inside for recess and lunch AGAIN because of the cold. They've been getting at each other because they've been kept inside for the last 6 days of school.

Today at one point I felt like I wanted to cry because of a number of things that took place at school. Exhausted is a word that barely describes how I felt/feel. I had to get "ugly" with my students today. I hate getting "ugly" with my kids. I'm under a lot of pressure right now as this week there are some things that are coming to a head.

I want to curl up in a ball and go to sleep, but alas, I have more papers to mark (this time it's for the Immersion class that I teach English to). At least I'm in my new comfy pants.

My New Pants and My New My Space

I recently bought a pair of comfy black athletic type pants from the Super Store for 10 dollars (regular price). I'm super excited about these pants. You have no idea how long and hard I have searched for pants like this. They don't make my butt look big and they're not skin tight (I'm no longer size 2 like I was in high school, so when I go into some of the stores that I used to (which I find I do less and less), the pants just aren't as "cute" on me as they used to be when I had no hips. I must have said to Ben at least four times this week, "Ben, we have to go back to Super Store in Grand Falls and I NEED to buy these pants in grey and in blue. I LOVE THESE PANTS."

I recently set up a "My Space." Today I was all excited about adding friends to it, and lo and behold, it won't let me on my site!! This is what I get:

"Sorry! an unexpected error has occurred. This error has been forwarded to MySpace's technical group."

Well gee, thanks. At least my blog is still being nice to me.

To Blog or To My Space? I'm so confused!!!

Okay, so I wanted to put some pictures on my blog which is always an annoying ordeal. For whatever reason, it's more difficult. So today while I was trying to change some pics, Ben said to me - "It's so much easier on my space." So now I have a My Space - and I'm torn - do I blog here and just update photos on my My Space? Or do I just blog on My Space? Then there's people who have My Space and a Blog and I'm just so undecided. Help?! As for Tom - I don't know who he is or how he became my friend on "My Space??!"

I'm so confused. All this time doing a "My Space" when I have papers to mark.

Here it is - with newer pics comin' in the near future. I'll keep you posted.

http://www.myspace.com/waterspiller

Right now I have only 2 friends. LOL. Sadness...I really need to go mark papers now.

Vienna, Austria

Ben and I just received an e-mail that confirmed our lay over for Ukraine will be in Vienna, Austria. We are now looking into options for visiting that part of Europe for at least a week, and we're even looking into going to Rome! I'm so excited, but I'm trying not to get too excited just in case things don't pan out.

On a side note, Ben has a "My Space" now...go figure. I don't know how everyone does it. I do well to keep up with blogs! There is a picture of the two of us with our nephew Alexander who will be a year old in February. Here's the link: http://www.myspace.com/crazypipedream

A Teacher's Prayer

"Enable me to teach with wisdom, for I help to shape the mind.
Equip me to teach with truth, for I help to shape the conscience.
Encourage me to teach with vision, for I help to shape the future.
Empower me to teach with love, for I help to shape the world."

I had a hard day at work today. I wouldn't even know where to begin if I were to go into detail. I was having such a great week, and then today with all of its turmoil came and tried to rob my joy. As Anne of Green Gables would say, "I'm having a Jonah day." No, I'm not running from God, but it sure feels like I was swallowed by a whale. Good thing it's Friday.

Better Late Than Never...

Okay, so I've finally sat down to blog...where to begin? First of all, I must tell you that Ben and I are FINALLY going to have internet at home again (high speed at that - glory hallelulah!), so that will make it much easier for me to blog. I can blog at school, but typically at school at the end of the day there's chatting, preparation, meetings, chatting... yeah you get the idea.

Life in the classroom is wonderful. I LOVE my kids - that's right - MY kids. I may not have any waiting for me at home at the end of the day (apart from my husband - ha.ha...), but I have 23 that I look after, counsel, teach, and encourage on a daily basis. I'm getting my prayer life back in order and I'm feeling it now...yup, the enemy sure knows how to try and put the pressure on, but I'm up for the challenge.

Ben and I are doing great! We went to UMPI last Friday night to climb the rock wall. I almost made it to the top of one - I takled that puppy three times and I couldn't quite make it - but I will conquer the wall! Ben, of course, being the monkey that he is made it to the top, but later struggled with a more difficult part of the wall - I was proud. I only try that stuff because I know he loves it so much. He sent me flowers to school this week - my favorite - gerber daisies! The best part was that he sent them just to say, "I love you." 3.5 years of marriage and we're still going strong. Of course we get the "When are you having children?" question a lot which is a question I've learned not to ask people. It's in the Lord's hands, and right now it's evident that the Lord wants me with these fifth graders. I'll leave it at that. We're going to the Ukraine on a missions trip in August. We're hoping that we can go a week earlier than the team leaves and do some sight seeing of the place where our lay-over is - Austria (perhaps we could see some surrounding areas). We thought it was going to be London at first. We're just looking into things right now, but we're hopeful! Ben's loan is also paid off (Praise the Lord!) and mine will be (providing we stick to the budget) by the end of May. The car will be paid off in June...God has really blessed us.

We went to the conference in Florida and we had such a blast. It was so much fun to see BBC people that we haven't seen in a long time (and their children - wowzers!). I got food poisoning twice (which I can laugh about now...especially after hearing that Kirk Perry had an awful case like me on the same day...we had eaten together with Ben and Tim the night before). I didn't get to go to Disney as a result, but since I'm better now I'm just thankful to be home and okay (it was that bad...I almost went to the hospital.) Ben, Tim, Kirk, and I also had a case of something from eating together somewhere else, and it hit us all at the same time (we nearly died laughing when we discovered what happened). Perhaps the four of us shouldn't eat together. LOL. Oh the stories I could tell - you should see the photo booth pictures...

Well, Ben has arrived to take me home...I have some Math tests and Problem of the Week assignments that are in need of being marked. I don't know though, with what I had to deal with at school today, and with an unexpected parent showing up (she just needed a listening ear it seemed and some encouragement), I'm wiped!

Looking forward to catching up - Ben's informed me Internet is ready to go at home!!

Sarah :)