I'm a Planner

If I had to pick an object that best described me it would be a planner. 

    I am constantly planning - schedules, activities, meals, shopping trips, how much time things will take, homework, road trips...basically everything. I think it is both a strength and a fault. 

I love that I plan everything out because then I am ready for the week and don't have to focus on things like "what's for dinner?" I loved that at the end of this last semester, I had all of my homework done about two weeks ahead of time. I'm thankful that I can think ahead about my schedule, so I know what nights I have more free time to do something fun. Planning is also really handy when I'm planning a road trip or nannying and trying to keep kids busy! *Not to mention how fun it will be when I begin full-time teaching!

What I don't really like about obsessively planning is that it's really hard to relax. I'm not the type of person that can sit around for hours on end just watching TV or Netflix. **Well maybe I can but after a day I get reeeally bored.** I appreciate that after a little while of TV, I want to do other things like reading, scrapbooking, or cooking. When you're a planner, relaxing it kind of difficult because you feel restless. It is hard fighting the urge to get up and do something even if I do just want to do nothing. I mentioned that planning helps with anxiety, but it can also lead to more anxiety when something doesn't go according to plan. An invitation for a night out sounds like a lot of fun and sometimes I have to force myself to go out and enjoy myself - because even though it will obviously be fun, the idea of a schedule change throws my body for a loop. Fortunately, I am getting lots of practice with flexibility before student teaching! 

A couple days ago, my boyfriend's church was having their summer choir party. The invitation to go was kind of last minute. I had already thought my evening through  - pajamas, leftover spaghetti, and finishing my latest book...The idea of changing that [lame] plan was a little unsettling, but I decided to go because it would be nice to get a free meal and socialize with everyone. I ended up having a blast! It was so nice having a great time with some wonderful people and wine. And I had almost said no!

         A little unexpectedness is great for my obsessive planning personality. 

Westallion Brewing Company - check it out! 

Yesterday, I had my first day off and spent it shopping. I forced myself to make no plans other than the fact that I would go shopping after sleeping in. It was so much fun getting out and having no plan for once! I felt myself relax after a long couple weeks of working and it felt amazing to treat myself after a few adult paychecks. I could feel that I was actually able to let my hair down and enjoy the summer by wearing a sundress and going with the flow. I got a few things I was looking for and still managed to stay in budget! My boyfriend and I then went to a new restaurant and brewery - it was so much fun to get out and enjoy the warm weather, new beers, and a live band!


Have you ever felt certain Bible verses describe your current life situations? I have had many Bible verses that stick with me for a particular span of time. You know when your faith has grown and you begin memorizing more verses to get through the next set of circumstances. Right now my life is in this peaceful stage being right before student teaching, graduation, and a potential call to a school for teaching.

The verse that has been guiding me through the last several months and into the next stage of life has been Psalm 73:23 

         Nevertheless, I am continually with you, you have taken hold of my right hand... 

This verse demonstrates how we continue to trust and have faith in Him who guides us, but it also illustrates how God will never leave our side because He is always with us. In a period of transition as well as the calm before the storm, this verse has as been a constant reminder of the peace I find in His grace. How the Lord provides reminders of His presence during all moments of life! Do any of you have special verses that remind you of the Lord's love?

As this summer continues and I keep preparing for what lies ahead, Lord help me to enjoy the blessings and opportunities you have placed before me. Guide me and lead me to do your work in the community around me. Thank you for your constant love, grace, and having better plans for my life than I could ever imagine.