Happy New Year...a little late...

Welcome to a New Year! 2013 promises to be a full year for me.  The highlights of 2012 were such blessings...

A recap...
- I began my Graduate degree program at Wayland Baptist University - Albuquerque, in Literacy Education.  I am currently taking my 7th of 12 classes.  If all goes at planned, I will be done next February, possibly before.
- I took a seven week long-term substitute position in 3rd grade, learning a ton about teaching, organizing, lesson planning and so much more.
- I spent my summer applying for jobs in APS, beading, knitting, taking three graduate classes and spending a lot of time learning more about myself and growing in my walk with Christ.

 A six strand glass bead necklace...turquoise and purple beads.  This one is mine, and I love it!

 Turquoise seed beads with Amber. Grandma found an Amber necklace that she didn't want and said I could come up with a new creation.

 A six strand glass bead creation for my awesome sister.

 Angels...a new favorite to make and give as gifts.

 Knitted hats...it's hard to believe I have been making them for over 8 years now.

- Two days before APS began the school year, I interviewed for a job at Governor Bent Elementary School in a 5th grade class.  I was placed in the classroom as a long-term substitute, until paperwork and the hiring freeze were finished.  The first Saturday after school started, I received my call to fill out paperwork and sign my full-time contract.  I love my class, staff and school.  This has been a great first year teaching placement and I hope to stay next year.
- I reconnected with some old friends from UNM.
- I became a part of the Sagebrush Illuminate Bookstore team.  Two weeks before Christmas I volunteered for the first time.  I now volunteer twice a month, sometimes more, depending on scheduling needs.
-I read the ENTIRE Bible in just under a year.

I am sure I am missing a few key events, but graduate homework awaits.  I cannot wait to see where 2013 will take me.  I look forward to the blessings of serving at my church, joining a small group and continuing my Bible reading adventures.  This year, I am working on reading the Old Testament in the Archeological Study Bible. The adventures never stop. 

May this year be filled with blessings for you and your families!
Julie