Teaching Creativity

Unplugging Distractions and Engaging in Reality

Have you ever noticed the distractions that we’re engulfed in with our current society? Restaurants have televisions in them that distract you from paying attention to conversations. Roads are bombarded with billboards that distract us from getting to our destination on time. Even our favorite stores are plagued with sale signs that distract you from the “one thing,” that you meant to buy and now you’re unconsciously loading their whole inventory into your cart.

Distractions are everywhere!!

One thing that you to do today (no matter what stage/area of life you may be in), is to:

Identify the distractions in your life that are keeping you from fully engaging and enjoying the reality going on around you.
Realize how much time and energy that those distractions are taking up.
And then refocus on friendships and relationships that are begging and pleading for your attention.

I did this just yesterday. I did something that I would have never expected myself to do, and yet am completely thankful and excited that I did. I identified my personal distractions, and then unplugged from them. It was a super simple, easy, one-step action that took a lot of guts. What was it? What was this giant leap of faith?

I unplugged!! I put aside my Instagram and Facebook accounts for a while!!

Crazy right? I never thought that I would take the leap to “turn off,” “unplug,” or “disconnect,” and it certainly wasn’t an easy decision to make…

Let’s get real here for a second. Our world is surrounded, connected, controlled, and glued into their social media accounts. To take a break away from that is like stepping out of the current culture and defying the social norm…but that’s exactly what I did.

How did I come to this decision?

Well, recently, I’ve noticed that I had become glued to my Facebook and Instagram accounts. I was paying more attention to how many likes my posts received and how many views my stories got in comparison to my own heart and well being. I was focusing more on the past posts of others or the future posts that I would make then dwelling in the beautiful present that was right before my eyes. And I realized: it was time to make a break for it!

I understood that although social media can be used to help others and reach lives, mine was becoming more addictive than productive, and it was simply time to turn mine off.

The point is: I saw an area of my life that needed change, that needed fixed, that needed re-direction and I took action to change it, fix it, and re-direct it! And you can too!

Perhaps you don’t struggle with your social media accounts, but you see another area in your life that is distracting you from the people and the moments that God gave you. Maybe it’s work, video games, or a current hobby that’s taking your attention. Of course these things are not bad on their own, but when they steal our time and focus away from our present journey and blessings then we need to make a break for it–unplug distractions and engage in reality.

Engage in relationships with loved ones. Engage in building friendships with others.
Engage in making memories that will last a lifetime.

Choosing Your Class Theme

I absolutely love this part! Choosing and creating the theme for your upcoming class is one of the most rewarding experiences of being a teacher! You get to watch your students walk into the classroom and see their eyes light up simply because you took the time to find out what could make learning fun.

Now, although it’s super fun, it can be pretty difficult to settle on only one class theme. I mean there are really hundreds out there to choose from! How do I pick only one? How do I narrow down my options?

Well, hopefully I can help you a bit with that. Let’s get started thinking creatively!

Creative Brainstorming

This is probably the part that’s the most fun! Why? Because I’m literally encouraging you right now to go scroll through Pinterest!

Take a look at Pinterest, go online, and ask friends what they’re upcoming themes are. Have some fun and see what’s out there! Use as many resources available and try to find some original ideas. Now, make sure to set a time limit on how long you spend traveling through ideas and thoughts, otherwise you may never get to our next step.

2.Contact Others

Ask questions!! This kind of ties in with the previous one.

Basically, go to others! Go to the teachers that inspire you, the people that you look up to, and ask them what themes they’ve done in the past. You could even ask what their favorite Bible verses are or favorite songs and make a whole new original theme based off of that!

Not only does this get the creative juices flowing, but it also allows you to ask questions about how they incorporated their class theme into things such as games, gifts, and lesson plans.

Second Grade Has a Spot for you-Jungle Theme

3. Choose a theme

Wait, only two previous steps and we’re all ready to choose a class theme? Yes! Honestly, It’s not really all that complicated.

Choose a theme that pertains to your students, but is also something that you love! Remember, although the theme is for the kids, it should be something the teacher enjoys too–you’re the one who has to look at it for the year.

Choose a theme that is seasonal. Pick something that you can easily see yourself adding fall leaves to, putting fake snow around, and growing spring flowers on.

Choose two themes. Now, personally, I know this is weird or perhaps a might different, but I tend to choose a brightly colored theme for the fall and a relaxing cool colored theme for the spring. Why? Because I know myself. I tend to go into the school year with loads of energy and then feel overwhelmed by the crazy colored patterns by the winter. So, right after Christmas break, I change my class theme completely around to something with blues, greens, and purples. Not only do I feel relaxed but the students are also super excited to come back from break to see a different class decor.

Now, don’t think that you have to change your class theme mid-year! I realize that it’s not for everyone. Some teachers do and some don’t. Some even change their’s up more than that. I knew a teacher who changed her class theme up every month! Can you believe it? If I did what she was doing, I’m sure I would have passed out by month three! My point? Do what’s best for you, your class, and your school. Don’t feel pressured to do what I’m doing or even what others are doing. Get ideas from others, but find your school’s expectations and follow those.

4. Create a Purpose

I love this part too! Well…let’s be honest, I love every part of being a teacher!

Creating a purpose for your classroom theme might take a bit more creative brainstorming. What do I mean? Well, I want you to ask yourself a few questions:

Who is this theme for? Is it for me or for my students? (Side note: the classroom theme should always be for the students)

What do I want my students to learn from the classroom theme? To rely on the Lord? To enjoy learning? To do their best?

How do I want them to feel when they come into the room? Inspired? Energized? Relaxed?

What all does your classroom theme do for both you and the students? What is your purpose statement for your class?

In the past, my classroom was decorated with large pieces of grass and huge bugs. The theme was, “Our God is so Big.” This theme taught my students that He loves even the littlest things and made them feel excited while letting them know that they are truly loved by their Creator.

God Cares about the little things-“Our God is so Big” theme

5. Cultivate Fun

Creating a theme and implementing it should be as much fun for you to do as it will be for the students to see it.

As the teacher, grow to love every inch of your class and enjoy every moment of putting it together.

Have fun and get creative!

10 Easy Things to do for a Great 1st Day of School

Teachers are making lists, prepping their classroom, and jotting down ideas. Why? Because that lovely first day of school is just around the corner. And we all know that a great first day leads to a great week, a great semester, and a great school year!

Now I know that you’re excited to get started, but please note that not every step for the first day of school is included in this list-you’ll also have your students introduce themselves, explain your school policies, safety procedures, etc. And if I fit that all into one blog post, you could be reading about your first day of school for an entire week-lol. Also remember that every school/classroom is run differently and this list is going off of a Christian school based perspective.

So…without further ado, just for you:

Here are 10 simple tips and tricks for a great first day of school-with numbers 4 and 6 being my personal favorites! They’re listed in sequential order according to how you would start and end that crucial first day. If you enjoy one in particular or have a favorite from one of the following, please be sure to comment below-I’d love to hear from you! And please be sure to share with a fellow teacher to make their first day as amazing as yours.

1. Pray

Pray for yourself-that God would give you wisdom to handle various situations that will arise(not might, but will), that He would give you patience (because you’ll need it), and that He’ll give you strength (physically, mentally, and emotionally).

Pray for your students-that they would have an eagerness to learn, that they would be obedient to authority, and that they would have soft and tender hearts towards you an towards God’s Word.

2. Inspect your classroom

Make sure your class is clean and neat. Make sure things are organized and that there’s no trash on the floor. This removes distractions from your students, gives them a positive learning environment, and allows you to focus on the day ahead.

3. Go over your schedule

Do this before anyone walks into the door. After doing this, make sure your visuals are in order for the upcoming lessons. Then place the sequenced visuals towards the front of the classroom. This ensures that even if you trip up or forget what’s coming up next, that you have a reminder right in front of you-you can easily regain composure and keep on going.

4. Greet your students

THIS IS SO IMPORTANT-and it should happen as often as possible (not only on the first day of school)!

A smile to start the day can make all the difference in the heart of a child!

At the beginning of the day, stand outside of your classroom and greet the children with a smile before they walk through your door. This lets them know how much you love them and lets the parents know that you are ready to invest in their child.

5. Pray some more

By this time, the students are all sitting down or perhaps they’re still talking with mom and dad. You may be a bit nervous, but ask God for His help one more time. Breathe and start the amazing journey ahead of you.

6. Praise your students~before you even start teaching

I love this one! When I was in college my student teacher told me, “Shlinda, you do a fabulous job with correction, but you need to praise your students more. Praise goes a long way,” and she was absolutely right!

After I started praising one student for sitting up correctly, the whole row would arch their backs. If I praised one student for how quietly they walked in line, five others would straighten up and do the same. I learned that praising a student is like magic for the teacher!

The key? Notice the student that is doing their best and praise them specifically and by name.

Don’t just say, “Good job.” Good job for what? What did the student do to deserve your words of affirmation? “Good job for having your hands folded.” Who are you talking to? Bring it all together by saying something like, “Wow Susan! Great job for having your hands folded. I can tell you’re ready for first grade.”

Every person (young or old) wants to hear praise for doing something well. Think about it, if your boss notices you at work (simply for doing your job) it gives you a boost and encourages you to keep on going and sometimes even do better than before. Our students are the same way. Trust me, start praising them on the first day and they’ll their very best for you throughout the year.

7. Go over the first 3 things to do when they enter the classroom

What would you like your student to do when they first walk into the classroom? Don’t just expect them to know it. It’ll be their first day and you’ll have to teach it to them.

This is different for every teacher. Personally, my students will put their backpack up, say, “Good Morning,” and start on their creative writing journals. Figure out what you would like your students to do when they first walk in, and ask them to do it. It makes your expectations for them clear, and eases their nervousness about day two.

8. Teach them the Classroom Rules

Again, this is different for every teacher/grade and yet every student has to know them. First, teach the rules-explaining their meaning. Why do we have these specific rules for the classroom? What’s the purpose of these rules?

Second, teach the rules with hand motions or movements. Get as many senses involved as possible, and the more fun the movements, the better!

Third, repeat the rules together as a class. Say them three times with the motions and test your students on it throughout the day.

9. Send home good notes!

Praise your students! Not only is the first day difficult, and, sometimes, taxing on the teacher, but it can also be very nerve racking and scary for your students. At the end of the day, praise them for their hard work and send them home with a good note, and perhaps even a treat, that they can brag about and show to their parents. It boosts their moral, gives the parent something to smile about, and tells the student you believe that they can have a great day tomorrow.

10. Praise the Lord~for great students and a wonderful first day!

When the day is done, take a deep breath and write down it all down. Write down all of the things that you could have done differently and all of the things that went amazingly well and thank the Lord for each moment of it.

Praise the Lord that you get to be a teacher. Praise Him for giving you the power to change lives and impact the future.

I know that these steps are very simple and, quite frankly, very easy, but once implemented you’ll find that, although your colleges may be a bit tired or downtrodden the first day, you’ll have joy in your heart and a pep in your step. Why? Because a great first day leads to a great year!

5 Things for Teachers to Do Before School Starts

We’re all enjoying this summer and having fun, but lets face it: school will be starting before we know it. So, as teachers, what should we do to prepare?

1.Brainstorm Class Themes

This one is one of the most fun things to do during the summer time! If you’re undecided about what your class theme is for the fall, then do this step first!

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of themes to choose from-painting, secret agent, bugs, lego, construction, farm, jungle, or the ever popular confetti or cactus. You can even do character themes such as my personal favorites Charlie Brown or Winnie the Pooh.

Visit Pintrest, ask friends, get creative, have fun!

2.Lesson Plan

Now this one might be a bit more complicated if you’re a new teacher or if your school is in the middle of transitioning their curriculum. However, most principals are more than willing to give you your curriculum ahead of time if you simply ask for it.

Asking for your curriculum in advance gives you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the classes your teaching and allows you to do your first few weeks of lesson plans ahead of time. When you do your lesson plans ahead of time, you give yourself opportunity to focus on decorating the classroom and getting to know the parents and your students.

Lesson planning ahead of time takes off a lot of unnecessary stress and allows you to go through your first week of school knowing that you’re already on track.

3. Pray for Your Students

This is something you can do before you even receive their a list with their names-and trust me, it makes all the difference in their school year!

Pray for their openness. Pray for their obedience. Pray for their ownership.

Pray that they would be open to God’s Word, the curriculum, and your heart for their future. Pray for their obedience to authority-to you, to the principal, and to their parents. Pray for their ownership of their education-that they would love learning and be engaged in the lessons.

Praying for your students goes a long way and allows you to impact them before even coming in contact with them!

4. Relax

Enjoy the time off! Get some rest this summer and allow yourself to enjoy the quiet moments. Yes, as teachers, we should be preparing and planning (if you know me, you know that I’m all for it), but we should also make sure that our heart, body, and mind is rejuvenated, refreshed, and rested in order to give our all to our students this fall.

5. Have Some Fun!

Take some time this summer to make memories!! If you’ve read any of my previous articles, you know that I’m all for making memories and trying new things during the summer time.

Keep a journal of all of the fun things that you’ve been able to do this summer-that way you can look back on it during the fall.

Have some fun! Make memories! Enjoy special moments!

Keep Learning

If there’s one thing that teaching has taught me, it’s to keep learning.

Now I think this statement goes for all of us, because we could all agree that, although we try our best, we still don’t know everything!! As humans we make mistakes, we try and yet produce errors, and sometimes we can even be blind to our own faults. We try our best in all that we do, and yet we fail to do so much more than we’re capable of.

This summer, I want to encourage you-whether you’re a Christian, a parent, a single adult, or someone just starting your journey-keep on learning!

Learn more about the Lord

“For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.”-Romans 15:4

This is definitely something that I have to work on daily. I cannot ascribe myself to be am expert in this area, but simply a person who is still learning.

I’m learning that the more that I spend time reading my Bible, praying, and seeking the Lord the more that I get to know Him. I get to learn His plan for my life, His hopes for my future, His presence in my pain, and His fingerprint in my purpose.

“I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.”-Proverbs 8:17

The word “shall,” is delicately woven throughout the Bible to show us God’s promises that will be fulfilled. God promises that if you are seeking Him you will find Him-there’s no question or doubt about it. If you aren’t a Christian, and you want to know more about God (seeking Him), then God will show Himself to you. If you are a Christian, already knowing Jesus Christ as your Savior, and desiring(seeking) a better relationship with the Lord, then you’ll find yourself growing closer to the Lord and you will see His plan unfold in every area of your life.

“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;”-Psalm 63:1

It may take time to learn about the Lord, but know that He’s already seeking you and that finding Him is worth it.

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”-Luke 19:10

He already knows all about us, loves us in spite of ourselves, and keeps on pursuing us-desiring to win our hearts and hold us in His loving arms. When we learn this and start to understand who God is-the Creator of the World, the Giver of Salvation, the Lover of our Souls-then it becomes easier to takes the steps to learn about the Lord.

2. Learn more about your Friends and Family

As we grow, we change. The same is true about our families and friends-they’re changing too! And it’s our responsibility, in order to grow closer to them, to simply learn more about them as they change.

Wow, oh wow, how I’m learning all about this one!

God has given me a beautiful family. My mom and my sisters have supported me through every endeavor in life. They’ve given me love and undeserved grace. They’ve shared more memorable moments of tears and laughter with me than I could possibly count, and yet…I still have so much to learn about them!

As my family has matured and grown we now have different standards, different favorite TV shows, and different hobbies. We partake of different daily activities and enjoy different hopes and dreams than we did ten years ago or even last month. People change, families and friends. If I truly want to grow closer to my family and build stronger relationships with my friends, then I simply need to take the time to learn more about them.

And as the Pooh once said, “Being friends is even better than honey.”

In a day and age where our laptops, cell phones, and social media accounts reign over our free time, it’s easy to lose track of the relationships that are around us (simply because we’re so focused on the relationships that are millions of miles away). Take time to learn about the people who are already next to you, who already love you, and who are already learning about you.

3.Learn more about Yourself

Okay…now this last one sounds a bit crazy whenever I read it on someone else’s blog or story, but trust me here because it really isn’t. I’m not talking about, “finding yourself,” or, “being one with your inner you,” you’ll have to go somewhere else for that.

What I’m simply talking about is learning more about who you are as a person. How do you express your creativity? What are some of your personal hobbies and passions? How do you respond to conflict? What thought patterns do you tend to drift towards?

I’ve been learning so much about my personality this summer. I realize that I tend to give so much of myself towards others that I neglect my own personal health/recreational needs. I’ve also learned that I tend to hold myself up to high expectations that no one else has asked of me but I just simply put on myself-this was a reality that hit pretty hard and I actually learned just last week. I’ve also been learning different hobbies that I enjoy-writing, reading, drawing, and (interestingly enough) running and physical fitness.

“You’re the person you spend the most time with, so get to know whose looking back at you in the mirror.”-?

Now, for me, I really enjoy those personality tests that you can find anywhere online. I know they’re not for everyone, but one of my personal favorites is the Enneagram test-it’s given from a Christian perspective and is very detailed and thorough. I found out that I’m a type 2-which is totally accurate! If you look it up, you’ll completely understand.

Now each of these three learning processes have one thing in common: TIME! If you’re truly devoted to learning about something or getting to know someone, it will involve you giving your time. So what are you willing to invest your time in this summer? Who are you willing to share precious moments with? Are you willing to get to know the Lord better, see the people around you in a different light, and even get to know that amazing person whose reading these words?

Take time today and keep on learning. Trust me. It’s worth it.

One Month Anniversary

Reaching One

Today’s the day! It’s the one month anniversary of Teaching Creativity!

I’ve absolutely loved blogging-feeling my fingers on the keys, watching words appear on the screen, and seeing thoughts become beautiful stories and illustrations.

Yet, during this joyous time, one question keeps popping up: Why did I start blogging in the first place? Why am I currently content writing while having only eight faithful followers? Why do I consistently put links to my posts on Pinterest although they get little to no traffic? Why do I write and hope and hope and write and write and hope and write?

Why do I never give up blogging even though I’m basically a beginner and have no idea what I’m doing???

The answer is simple:

I want to encourage others!

I want to encourage students, teachers, janitors, coaches, lunch workers, volunteers, tutors, stay-at-home moms, that two year old that’s looking over your shoulder, (basically just anyone with eyes) who will take a second to read my story, learn from my mistakes, and glory in my victories. I want the words that I type and the thoughts that I convey to reach hearts, hit a nerve, and make a difference in someone else’s life/perspective. I want others to depend on the Lord, knowing that He can help them accomplish their aspirations and make their dreams a reality.

Now, we both know that I’m no where near “hitting the big time,” here. Let’s be honest: I’m not making any money and I’m just getting started…

But the truth is that as long as you’re reading it-just you (one person)-then it’s worth it. It doesn’t matter if I have eight readers or eight hundred readers. What truly matters is you-the person who’s reading these words right now. If I’ve reached into your life, touched your heart, or changed your perspective then I’m doing exactly what I was meant to do-reach one person-and that’s what life is all about.

So how are you reaching one person today? How are you changing the lives around you? Please share it in the comments. Inspire someone else (just one) who might be reading.

Get Lost~Go Adventure

Okay. Let me clarify. I’m not talking about getting lost as in wandering in the wilderness and not finding your way out. I’m talking about escaping into a new world and creating new things.

1.Get Lost In A Good Book

There are so many different kinds of books out there and the summer time is the perfect time to find one just for you! There’s drama, history, satire, romance, science, self-help, etc. My personal favorites this summer include When You Just Can’t Get Over It by Dr. R.B. Ouellette, Off Script by Cary Schmidt, and Own Your Everyday by Jordan Lee Dooley. So far, I’ve finished two out of the three, but I’m definitely asking around for more recommendations from friends and teachers.

What about you? Do you have any recommendations for books this summer? If so, comment below! If not, then get out there and find a new book this summer (or perhaps even an old one) that you can get lost in!

2. Get Lost In A Puzzle

Puzzle? What? I mean find a brain teaser-a puzzle to rack your mind. Personally, I love Sudoku! I could spend hours racking my intellect on those number puzzles. Plus, I just found the cutest Sudoku book over at Barns N Noble.

What brain teasers can you get lost in this summer? Sudoku? Cross word puzzles? Word searches? Wordscapes? Riddles? What are some of your favorites?

3. Get Lost In A Hobby

This is great because hobbies can be both relaxing and productive! But it’s also a tricky one because it seems like the list of hobbies is practically endless. There are so many amazing ones to choose from and so many things that one can learn to do/pursue. Right now my hobbies include writing, drawing, and painting. I’m not a pro in those areas, but I am enjoying what it takes to build those skills and find new passions.

What are some of your hobbies? Perhaps it’s woodworking? Maybe you’re good at knitting? Or is it running? How about Baking? Do you enjoy fishing? What about sewing? Or perhaps food tasting-that one is one of my personal favorites. So what are some hobbies that you enjoy? How are you building your personal skills? What are you learning?

This summer, find a book, a puzzle, or a hobby and get lost for a bit. Allow your time to be both productive and relaxing.

Don’t just adventure this summer, get lost among the beauty, try new things, and have some fun!

Get Out There

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the sun!

For the majority of the year, we’re often cooped up in our offices or classrooms. We’re sitting behind a desk or standing behind a podium while the world outside is calling our names. Well, I have good news for you: IT’S SUMMER TIME! You can finally answer the call to the outdoors!

Now, in all honesty, I am a city girl who absolutely loves shopping! I can memorize the layout of a mall after only being there one time. It all comes so naturally to me. Cute clothes? Need them! Debit card? Have it! Shopping bag? Yes, please! Repeat? Of course!

Not only am I a mall guru, but I’m also a sucker for a good book…I seriously love Barns N Noble! I could spend hours and hours among the books, either at the store or at home-curled under a blanket with coffee in hand.

Why am I saying all of this? Well…because of my love of those beautiful, red, sale signs and my tendency to navigate towards pages, I can be the first to tell you that I’m not your typical, “outdoors person,” so if you’re reading this thinking, “She’s probably way more into the nature scene than me,” then think again! I’m right there with you!

I’m in the learning pool with you. This summer is showing me how much fun it can be to go out hiking with a friend or go swimming at the beach. I’ve enjoyed the pleasure of jogging outside, watching the stars at night, and taking walks with the family before the sunset.

Getting out there in the summer sun has made for some of the best memories for me and I know it will for you too.

Summer is here! It’s the perfect time to have fun and explode in laughter. So what memories are you making this summer? Where are you going? How are you getting out? Comment below and share some of you adventures-I’d love to hear all about them!

Today is the time to make your mark on the world and explore everything around you. It’s hotter, it’s brighter, it’s summer, and it’s calling your name-all you have to do is answer the call. So Come On! Get Out There!

Better Than Coffee

How many of you love coffee? I know I do!

I love waking up in the morning with a warm mug in hand and curling up on the couch. Coffee is my go-to versatile drink of comfort. Coffee can be warm and comforting or cool and invigorating. Coffee can be refreshing or soothing. Coffee can wake the senses or relax the mind.

So what is your go-to comfort food/drink? We all have our various comfort foods/drinks that we absolutely love! Perhaps yours is cold soda on a hot afternoon, hot tea when you have a cold, or pizza when you’re exhausted. Whatever your go-to comfort is, I want you think of it now and then insert it in place of the word “coffee” for the following summer challenge:

Find Something Better Than Coffee-Cultivate Friendships

As teachers (or students), we go on vacation or home during the summer. Wherever our journeys may lead us, I’m challenging you to find someone whose “better than coffee.” Find a new friend this summer–someone more comforting or more refreshing than coffee.

This week, I spent time with three different ladies(three potential new friends). Their pasts, personalities, and priorities were all very different and yet I enjoyed getting to know each one of them.

The first was a very bright woman, only a few years older than me, who shares my passion for teaching and loves coffee just as much as I do. My first impression of her told me that she seemed a little head strong, very leader oriented, and honestly a bit intimidating; but after we went out for breakfast I realized that we had much more in common than I thought. We shared our past stories and I was amazed at all that the Lord had done in her life. She related to parts of my story and as she told hers I realized that assumptions can lead your thoughts of someone down the wrong path and can cause you to miss out on a wonderful friendship opportunity. Needless to say that our one hour breakfast date turned into an amazing three hours, and I knew that I had found a friend that was even more refreshing than coffee.

The second was a very kind and friendly woman, around my age, who loves the company of those around her. We ate snacks that we didn’t have to cook and flickered through Netflix movies together. We didn’t have to say much, but simply enjoy each other’s laughter and side comments. We only spend an hour or two together, but I thoroughly enjoyed it because I had found a friend who was more relaxing than coffee.

The third was a somewhat shy and reserved woman, only a few years younger than me, whose maturity and skills exceed expectations. At first, I thought that it would be a bit rough getting her to open up to me, but then I understood that trusting someone (sharing the small details of your life) takes time-it doesn’t have to happen right away. So instead of trying to talk away the evening, I invited her over for dinner and a movie. We made a lovely meal that included corn, Alfredo pasta, and garlic chicken. In doing so, we talked about our preferences–favorite television shows, music genres, and various dishes. Although I learned that we had a lot of differences, I also learned that we had a lot in common as well. We both try to eat healthy (emphasis on try), we both like Planet Fitness and believe that physical fitness is essential, and we both love coffee! We then went to the movies and came back around midnight. We were exhausted and our speech had dwindled down to silence, but I was happy because I had found a friend who was more versatile than coffee.

This week, I learned so much about how to invest time and build friendships. Often times, we run to our favorite television shows, our favorite places, our favorite foods or drinks for comfort or refreshment, when, in all honesty, a good friend can do so much more for our heart and our soul.

My challenge to you? Invest in a new friendship this summer! Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you, who encourage you, or who simply make you smile. Get to know those who you haven’t noticed before. You may just find someone whose better than coffee.

The Number one tip to Fight off Fear

Fear can knock you down and tear you apart. Fear can paralyze, distract, and demotivate. Fear can make you question your place and lead you to doubt your purpose. Fear can limit your future.

The key word in that previous paragraph? Can.

Fear can do all of those things, but it doesn’t have to. The results from fear all depends on your response to it. So what’s your job in all of this?

Fight Off Fear

Sounds simple doesn’t it? Easy right? Then how do we do it? How do we take our fears and overcome them? Well, before we start answering these questions, let me share a recent summer story with you.

Just last night, some of the teachers that I work with were talking to me about moving closer to the school. They talked about how much I would love the two bedroom apartment, enjoy living with a new roommate, and appreciate the mountain area. As fate would have it my “potential roommate” was sick, so we ended up bringing her something for dinner. This was perfect for me, because it meant that I would get a sneak peak of the area.

As we drove up towards the mountain, the night lights dwindled away and the stores faded into the distance. I started to realize that my previous roommate was right when she labeled me as a, “City Girl.” Thankfully all of my nerves subsided after we parked in the driveway of a beautiful, large, two-story, blue and white house. Unfortunately, I had to wait in the car as the other teachers delivered the food (I had forgot to let my “potential roommate” know that I was in town and we didn’t want to make it awkward).

While I was waiting in the car, I decided to call a friend. We talked for about a half an hour until I realized that my phone only had 3% battery left. I said, “Goodbye,” and quietly continued to wait in the backseat.

Somewhere between 9:50 and 10:15, I noticed a large shadow making its way down the street. I calmly rationalized, “Is that a bear? No. It must be a large dog…but it looks like a bear. Oh snaps! That’s a bear!” As the bear came closer to the car, I held my breath, locked the door, and hid under the seats (as if that was going to do anything). I looked down at my phone, trying to decide what to do next, “Dead. Great. Now what? How do I warn my friends that there’s a bear out here if my phone isn’t on? I can’t just leave them. What if they come out of the house?”

When the bear slowly headed back up the street, I quickly jumped into the front seat and out of the driver’s door. I ran as fast as I could towards the fence. Locked! So what did I do? I jumped it! I jumped the fence! I had no idea I could do that!!

I caught my breath. I was shaken, in shock, and stirred, but I was safe.

The bears in our lives would be anything that we are afraid of. For you they might be health trials, losing a job, moving to a new place, or starting a new journey.

So what do we do when we face our fears? We do the incredible. We rationalize, we think fast, and we run towards safety.

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”-Proverbs 18:10

“The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.”-Proverbs 29:25

When fears come we should run towards God-the one in control of our situation-trusting in Him and hoping in Him. When we run to Him, He keeps us safe.

He’s the one who helps us jump our fences and fight our fears.