It's My Last Day Off

...for a long time 

I will be starting student teaching in just over a week. Fortunately, my first few days will be full of orientation at school and then help to set up the first classroom. I can gradually ease into what will probably be the busiest semester of my life and career thus far. 

Earlier this week I had the realization that this is going to be my "last day off." 

True, Josh and I technically have Monday off so we plan to eat junk food and watch all the movies we didn't get a chance to already this summer. I'll have weekends, holiday breaks and a day off for my sister's wedding, but that won't be quite the same as my last day off all by myself without any homework. 

The big celebration started last night complete with a face mask, a fancy dinner for one, a workout, and a nice glass of wine! I have no plan for today other than to eventually do my dishes, eat lunch, and hang up a decoration on our apartment day. Maybe if I really feel productive then I will clean up and maybe start some scrapbook preparations. This evening I'll get to join Josh's family for a big dinner get together....but, for now, the comforts of my bed are very great. 

As I head into this last stage of my college journey I am feeling a lot of different things; excitement, fear of the unknown, God's calling, anxiety, passion, and nervousness. 

Will I have a social life? Did I work enough over the summer to pay all the bills until the end of January? Will I have to make plans to move, change phone plans, find insurance, and more if I find a job someplace else? Will I find a job? What are my options if I can't find a job? When will I get to see my friends? Will I get all the work done? 

The one thing (besides a long hot bath, a cup of tea, and/or a long walk) that seems to calm the feelings of anxiety is that I know God's got me. God has a plan and I do not need to worry. He has the best job lined up for me in the best location. My prayers are and will be answered. I have an amazing support group in my family, friends, old and new church and I can only thank God for who He has given me, but I am grateful I can also turn to Him.

My confirmation verse really sticks out to me during this time, along with a few others,

Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.  ~ 1 Timothy 4:12 

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.  ~ Joshua 1:9 

Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.          ~ Ephesians 5:1-2 


My excitement and anxiety ebbs and flows with the coming days. Lots of support from those around me has helped and I am going to take this last day of freedom to

                                                                                      Be Still 
                                                                                                     (Psalm 46:10)