tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192580802024-03-14T04:46:56.282-04:00God Is TalkingSo many times we go through this life as busy as we can possibly be. When we get like this, we miss out on one of the most beautiful voices . . . God. God is talking to each one of us in a way that we can understand. This is my way to share what God is saying to me. I'd love to hear how He is talking to you.Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.comBlogger142125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-5281044668294090992016-05-19T07:09:00.001-04:002016-05-19T07:13:23.475-04:00Seasons ChangeI spoke at ECHO, my youth group, last night. Here is the interview.<br />
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. What is your name? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dina D Coverstone</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. How long have you been a youth leader? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Almost 18 years, 3.5 at Vineyard</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Why did you become youth leader? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I became a youth leader right out of highschool. I wanted to stay connected to my youth group initially, having given my life to Jesus 8 months before. I continued to be a youth leader because God has totally placed a calling on my life to minister to teenagers. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">4. What’s your favorite hobby? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Reading and Basketball!!!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">5. Are there a couple stories or memories from the last few years that really stands out to you? What are some of the highlights for you? </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Youth Leader campout - huge highlight</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Girls’ lock-ins at the church...especially playing sardines and Twister</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lots of conversation and time spent 1-1 with kids over the years. I have always been a people person, really wanting to get to know people. I think it is precious when a student shares their life with an adult...it is pretty cool.</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Small group 12 hours of Christmas! We made and decorated cookies, the cats licked some of them, and we took them to Derek’s!</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Discipleship group this year</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">watching the youth band grow into worship leaders</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">6. So, what’s in store for the next season of your life? What will you be doing? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I will be returning to the classroom as a 5th grade teacher and COACHING HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL...a whole new realm of “youth ministry”</span></div>
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<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7. Why will you be doing what you’re doing in the next season? How has God placed a vision in you for what you will be doing next? </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teaching has always been a dream of mine. Having been out of the classroom the past 2 years was challenging, but also reminded me of the heart the Lord has given me to teach. My current position as an Instructional Coach was a 2-year commitment. I am glad to have had the opportunity, but I am thrilled to be going back where I belong!</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am passionate about the game of basketball. I believe that athletics, particularly for girls, play a vital role in development. Some of the best times of my life were spent on a basketball court. The two friends who lead me to Jesus were teammates of mine. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Youth ministry doesn’t simply happen inside the walls of a church. God has placed a calling upon my life to minister to and mentor teenagers. Coaching is an avenue to use something I love to share about unconditional love through Jesus. I believe that God has opened the door at a very key point in time at WHS for believers to be put in affluent positions: with students, the staff, and our community. It is an opportunity to live out my faith, be a witness to Jesus, in a very public place.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8.What most excites you about the next season of life? </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I will be doing 2 things that I love: teaching and coaching. I am a firm believer that God calls people into both of these professions. It is a lot of outpouring, mentoring/coaching/teaching. But I also believe that God can and will equip me as HE sees fit to bring glory to His name in the classroom and on the basketball court. I have spent several years growing in my relationship with Jesus, learning who He has made me to be, and overcoming lots of wounds and insecurities. I have learned so much in the past year about God’s goodness and that he has BIG PLANS. Time to put all that learning to work!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9. What most scares you about the next season of life? </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am leaving lots of familiar things. The past few years have been very different with my job and schedule and freedom to come and go. Teaching and coaching is a HUGE undertaking. I also am scared that I will lose my focus on Jesus, become disconnected or lazy in my walk. Each new season of life brings new challenges. I am a routine person, so I need to find the new routine. I need to be sure that God is top priority over everything. I am scared too that I will lose connections to youth kids and leaders that I have come to love. But I also know that there will be a new crop of 5th graders in my classroom and 25-30 highschool basketball players to develop relationships with and learn to love.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10. Any last words or anything you would like to challenge these young people and leaders with?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">2 things to leave you with:</span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Revelation 3:19-20 (NIV) </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #9900ff; font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">God doesn’t allow us to become idle in our lives. I have had many times when I get comfortable with where I am, to the point that I can take care of me and tend to put God on the backburner. Thankfully God doesn’t allow me to stay in that place too long before he shakes things up. I have dreamed of coaching at the highschool level for a long time, but got comfortable that I would simply coach at the elementary and be involved in youth group forever. God has different plans and he has opened new doors while closing others. Don’t think that God doesn’t hear the quiet, unspoken desires of your heart. He really truly knows you better than you know yourself. Since the realization of going back into the classroom and the fact that I am now a highschool basketball coach, God has lavished so much love upon me. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.32; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 10:10 (NIV) </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #9900ff; font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Satan wants nothing more than for us to fail. At the same time that God has been building me up, Satan has blasted me with lots of lies of inadequacy and fears that maybe God picked the wrong person for these positions. Satan is a thief and a liar who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. He tries to take good things and twist them to his advantage, wanting us to give up. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full</span></h1>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: decimal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.32; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Stay connected to Jesus and other believers! </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John 15:5-8 (NIV)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If we do not stay connected to Christ, and other believers we cannot continue to make Christlike decisions. God’s word is alive and active. Being connected is life-giving!</span></h1>
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<span style="color: #9900ff; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My challenge is to remember that God has already won the battle for our lives. If you give your life to Jesus, accepting the gift of his crucifixion, satan can’t do jack crap to you! God wants us to believe him for the deepest desires of our hearts, to dream big dreams (the impossible), then trust that he can bring them into fruition in his perfect timing. Don’t get comfortable in life to the point that you let your guard down and think that you can do anything without God working in your life. And don’t give satan any credit...he has done NOTHING to warrant any respect from those who trust in the name of Jesus.</span><br />
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Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-21257958332062892112014-01-18T08:20:00.000-05:002016-05-19T07:12:46.919-04:00Answers to the QuestionsHere are the question, with answers, that I was given to answer with my Sunshine Award:<br />
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What is your favorite office supply?<br />
Post-it tabs<br />
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If I were to make something in my kitchen for you, what would you want it to be?<br />
Breakfast<br />
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What makes you feel loved?<br />
A warm, tight, hug...NO PATTING<br />
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If you were a piece of chewing gum, where would you want to be stuck?<br />
(Special thanks to Brit Montgomery, third grade teacher, for this little gem of a question.)<br />
the side of a lamppost in the hub of a huge city<br />
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What is your least favorite chore around the house?<br />
Dusting<br />
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What's your favorite kind of exercise?<br />
Anything outdoors!<br />
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What do you collect (or wish you collected)?<br />
I collect spoons<br />
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What's one of your favorite posts YOU'VE written? Please share the link.<br />
"Why I Do What I Do"<br />
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What's your favorite quote?<br />
"The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord." Psalm 45:11<br />
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What are three words to describe you as a teenager?<br />
Happy, involved, social<br />
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What are three words to describe your life right now?<br />
Compassionate, loving, learning<br />
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Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-17252286961793353292014-01-18T08:06:00.002-05:002014-01-18T08:06:58.034-05:00Sunshine AwardMy good friend and colleague, Ruth, sent me an email this week. It was a challenge to blog again. And she posted that challenge here , <a href="http://www.ruthayreswrites.com/2014/01/a-bit-of-sunshine.html">http://www.ruthayreswrites.com/2014/01/a-bit-of-sunshine.html</a>. I realized at that moment that I haven't blogged for a long time, maybe the longest I've gone without blogging ever.<br />
<br />
I know EXACTLY why I haven't blogged.<br />
It has nothing to do with time.<br />
It has nothing to do with wanting to write.<br />
It has nothing to do with work or life...<br />
<br />
It has EVERYTHING to do with silence.<br />
<br />
I am coming out of a very quiet season in my life. I have walked through some pretty intense personal things in my relationship with The Lord. As I journeyed I felt led in a quiet way. A way that made quiet comforting. A way that was encouraging to not have to be the "usual" Dina. But it was still very much Dina. A way that made it okay to not talk or share or have answers or feel the need to talk for the sake of talking<br />
<br />
I am grateful for this season. I am grateful for a God who "leads me beside quiet waters" and "restores my soul." It has been long. It has been hard. It has been good!Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-73250468974600081642013-03-28T05:21:00.001-04:002013-03-28T05:23:45.544-04:00Why I do What I doWay back in June I wrote<span style="color: magenta;"> <b><a href="http://dinacoverstone.blogspot.com/2012/06/why-i-teach.html" target="_blank">this</a></b></span> post.<br />
<br />
I want to share it as my slice today because it still reigns true for me. This week, getting back in my classroom, I was again reminded of why I do what I do. Yes, teaching can be exhausting and challenging and emotional, but it is good.<br />
<br />
Be blessed today as you teach. I know my corporation is headed into Spring Break after today. If that's the case for you, let it refuel you to finish out the year. If you are just coming off Spring Break, I pray that you are rejuvenated as you head back with your students next week. Remind yourself why you do what you do.<br />
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /><br />
<br />Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-49824938977608837802013-03-27T06:50:00.000-04:002013-03-27T06:50:33.808-04:00A crazy change in plansSpring Break is just 2 days away. I was super excited because I had NO PLANS for the first time in a few years. I was going to stay home, read, do some Spring cleaning, etc.<br />
<br />
Now, I am leaving right after school tomorrow to head to Arkansas with my dad. CRAZY!<br />
<br />
We are actually taking a much needed trip to see my grandparents. Grandpa was just in the hospital with some heart issues. He was released yesterday, his 87th birthday, and dad really wants to go see him. My family didn't want dad to have to go alone so I get a little trip with my dad.<br />
<br />
I could've been upset that my plans were changed. Actually before I started my Fight Club I would've been upset. Now I am seeing what a blessing it is that I will get some special time with my dad and I get to see my grandparents.<br />
<br />
God is good.<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comment-goodness to three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13107" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-37069791889178703392013-03-27T06:44:00.000-04:002013-03-27T06:45:25.450-04:00It's good be backMy student teacher finished on Friday. It was so good to be back in the classroom, but time FLIES! Amazing to me that in a few weeks I could totally be adjusted to a different routine. I spent my days helping in other classrooms, pulling reading groups, eating rather than inhaling my lunch. It was a great time. I learned so much from my colleagues. But, I am glad to be back in my classroom. I'm just not glad that time seems to disappear when I am teaching.<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-36454058332878872422013-03-26T06:58:00.002-04:002013-03-26T06:58:48.308-04:00Technology makes me want to screamMy internet was down all afternoon and evening yesterday. It worked just fine in the morning. I got to school (school got cancelled), did some work, then came home to do some work here at home.<br />
<br />
And my internet was down!<br />
<br />
I had plans, things to do, writing to post, thoughts to share.<br />
<br />
God had other plans.<br />
<br />
I spent the day just relaxing, not worrying about making a post or reading the news or checking in on the Fight Club page. I just relaxed. I even took a nap.<br />
<br />
I am enjoying the SOL challenge, but I am also learning that it's okay to miss a day. I needed to learn that. I am too eager to "compete", often times getting worried or stressed.<br />
<br />
So, while I truly did want to scream at my internet (and actually may have screamed) just a tiny bit, I am grateful for an afternoon and evening of rest.<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" />Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-63326098600753476942013-03-24T21:02:00.000-04:002013-03-24T21:02:26.007-04:00Bus Testimonies5 Leaders and 35 teens sharing testimonies on a bus. Picture it!<br />
<br />
In January I joined the youth team at my church. I am still getting the hang of things. I had the opportunity to go on a short missions weekend in November and was introduced to bus testimonies.<br />
<br />
What are bus testimonies, you ask? Well on the drive home we take time for every person on the bus to give a short testimony about the trip. It is AWESOME!<br />
<br />
Now, there were 40 of us limited to 30 seconds each...that takes some time. Everyone shares. EVERYONE! We had to share 2 highlights of the trip. Some testimonies were short, some quiet, some lengthy, some general, some specific. But they all had one thing in common. We learned that God works in each of our lives, in personal ways, and sometimes not in the actual conference that we went to. I would say that the majority of us shared something about the impact of relationships. <br />
<br />
I was encouraged. Bus testimony time might have been my favorite part of the whole trip!<br />
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-20131732497023035372013-03-23T07:39:00.001-04:002013-03-24T21:02:35.001-04:00power of prayerPrayer is powerful.<br />
<br />
One of my favorite times at a youth conference is prayer time. There is power in seeing a huddle, big or small, of teens and leaders in prayer. <br />
<br />
God hears everyone one of them. Spoken. Unspoken. He hears them.<br />
<br />
This morning, as the girls are waking from a short night of sleep, there is joy. Joy that prayer was answered.<br />
<br />
Prayer for physical healing,<br />
emotional victory,<br />
spiritual refreshment.<br />
<br />
Prayer is powerful!<br />
<br />
How can I pray for you?<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-46244958497848058772013-03-21T18:32:00.000-04:002013-03-24T21:02:43.414-04:00broken down busI am on my way to Oasis in Columbus, OH. The youth bus broke down. While we were parked on the side of the road, a lady from a nearby church saw us and stopped by to help. She contacted her church and got their bus. They graciously transported 40 of us to their church and are letting us hang in the youth oom.<br />
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Its good to know that good people still do good things.<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> </div>
Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-27931389747963351072013-03-20T23:06:00.000-04:002013-03-24T21:02:52.263-04:00Friends and FamilyTonight was a night of family and friends. I'm still with my friends :)<br />
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-52190652611051099162013-03-19T22:13:00.002-04:002013-03-24T21:03:05.654-04:00Sleepsleep<br />
i long for<br />
sleep<br />
<br />
it stays away<br />
far away<br />
lost in thoughts<br />
stirring, swirling thoughts<br />
<br />
sleep<br />
oh, where are you<br />
<br />
sleep<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-71059869332517256842013-03-18T23:28:00.004-04:002013-03-18T23:30:27.447-04:00FaithfulnessWhat a challenge this week for my Fight Club. There is much put right on me and I am terrified of failing. Primarily our physical challenges. In weeks past there has been an assignment for each day.<br />
<br />
This week, it is all up to me. <br />
<br />
How hard will I push myself?<br />
Will I do it or strike out?<br />
<br />
Time to lay that fear down and get off my butt to do something about it. Be faithful!<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-22347645487679268802013-03-17T20:52:00.002-04:002013-03-17T20:53:18.236-04:00My Magic BlanketWarm<br />
Comfortable<br />
Memories<br />
Security<br />
<br />
I received a gift from my great grandma when I was born. It is a blanket, but not just your ordinary baby blanket. Nope. This blanket is big, HUGE. And it is pink. It has been my magic blanket for over 32 years.<br />
<br />
My great grandma was a super special woman in my life. She loved with a quiet love. She served others with a heart of gold. She baked, anything and everything! And she made us some very memorable things.<br />
<br />
I treasure the blanket that she made for me. It has traveled many places, accompanied me during many naps, provided warmth, comfort, and security.<br />
<br />
Over the years it has had some serious wear. Parts had become super thin and holey. My grandma (great gma's daughter) gave my blanket some love. She put a new backing on it, over the original so that I would still have it. She also added a silky pink edge. Not long after that surgery, the front panels began to tear. My dear friend, Shannon, put a new front panel on my blanket. She also did a bit of reconstruction. She took the entire blanket apart, realigned every piece (old and new), and machine sewed every part back together. She added one very special touch. She cut a corner from the original backing and sewed it on the outside.<br />
<br />
I love it. My blanket is super thick. It is thick with material, memories, and love. Here's to another 32 years!<br />
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" />Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-91277806715669315382013-03-16T10:50:00.003-04:002013-03-16T10:50:36.190-04:00A Double FeatureFriday, March 15<br />
(this post was ready last night, but I was without internet service)<br />
<br />
Carnival city! <br />
<br />
Tonight was the school carnival at my school. It was 2.5 hours of crazy family fun! There is something about seeing the entire school community coming together and having a great time. My favorite part is that families were together. That is a great thing to see in my school community...it doesn't happen too often. <br />
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comments to at least three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /><br />
<br />
Saturday, March 16<br />
<br />
Fight Club Night<br />
<br />
We had a Fight Club sleepover last night. It was a blast! Being a single person, I relish time with others. Last night I was a night of just being girls. We laughed, played in a pool, played games, giggled, and stayed up way late! I was reminded of all the fun girl time I have been blessed to have in my life. <br />
<br />
Today I am exhausted and will probably take a MAJOR nap!<br />
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<br />Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-15570815149088171452013-03-14T22:39:00.000-04:002013-03-14T22:47:35.774-04:00Life's Not FairHere is my true heart tonight. It is heavy with a burden to pray for a family that is so near and dear to my heart, my best friend's family.<br />
<br />
You see, this family is expecting a new member soon (mama is 29 weeks pregnant). What a blessing! Baby is growing, kicking, turning, hiccupping, being loved more and more with each day. But, baby has some problems. His heart is underdeveloped, growing outside of his body, and his lungs are not developed.<br />
<br />
This family is off to meet with a pediatric cardiologist tomorrow. And I can't help but pray.<br />
<br />
God tells us, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20)<br />
<br />
I got to see this beautiful family (mom, dad, big brother) tonight. The entire time I wrestled with the thought <i>Life's not fair</i>. This mom and dad are two of the most faithful, God-fearing people that I know. They love the Lord and live for HIM. Why, oh why is this happening.<br />
<br />
Then I thought of that mustard seed faith. I must tap into that tonight. I must pray and pray and pray, believing that I serve a God who can move mountains! A God who can heal!<br />
<br />
I ask that you be praying for this family. Pray that they would have a safe trip tomorrow. Pray that they would ask the right questions. Pray that they would be clear in mind to hear what the doctors have to say. Pray for this baby boy, that he would be healed. Pray that he would grow stronger each day.<br />
<br />
Thanks<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0JjEdBWjfAC4YfaHIbdVw9uzYXxMpBNLxT-XrTyVUcm3R09Av7JZ3cpEnCA1Hsjt8BgBXfhhFeT9DXoJ_fit0fVfZpo_om949J7YfAO43vUKCMjJdq9wsj5FMUsXbbffHaP6/s200/Screen+Shot+2013-03-01+at+7.02.46+PM.png" width="195" />Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-90295738263814450542013-03-13T23:00:00.001-04:002013-03-13T23:00:30.919-04:00I miss my kiddosI have a student teacher right now.<br />
He is GREAT! He is in his 7th week (out of 8). He has really grown and learned and found his place in the classroom.<br />
The past week I have been out of my classroom (minus proctoring ISTEP). <br />
<br />
I miss my kiddos.<br />
<br />
Today, I got to cover the class for a bit while my student teacher met with his college supervisor. It was a little slice of heaven. We didn't do anything extraordinary. At least, not for the kids. They had some work time. <br />
<br />
For me, it was glorious. I found myself missing the conversations, joking, learning, and love that happens in my classroom. <br />
<br />
I am glad that Mr. Adams is doing so well.<br />
<br />
But...I miss my kiddos.<br />
<br />
<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comment-goodness to three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" />Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-14827021899837474252013-03-12T22:04:00.000-04:002013-03-12T22:04:08.930-04:00defeat<div style="text-align: center;">
Uconn lost. I am bummed. </div>
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comment-goodness to three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /></div>
Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-80885088517243787732013-03-11T22:14:00.001-04:002013-03-11T22:14:21.969-04:00An exciting rematch...<div style="text-align: center;">
Tomorrow night.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Espn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7pm</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Uconn vs. ND</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
a championship fight</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm nervous already</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Got my Huskies t-shirt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
ready for school</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I might not sleep tonight</div>
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I'll be distracted all day</div>
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My stomach will churn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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Here's to my Huskies</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Championship is one game away!</div>
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<img class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTHE-5IRX8nA6yMZEiBN7nPr6CKuShOKO5C4TgKzGQ2HJKrk5FZ" data-sz="f" name="6LXOlA5O91_eMM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTHE-5IRX8nA6yMZEiBN7nPr6CKuShOKO5C4TgKzGQ2HJKrk5FZ" style="margin-left: -13px; margin-top: 0px;" /> </div>
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comment-goodness to three other slicers." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13231" height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /></div>
Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-86983430579636108292013-03-10T21:30:00.000-04:002013-03-10T21:32:03.817-04:00The 1/2 Way PointI am half way there! Where is that, you ask? <br />
<br />
I am half way through my Fight Club Pink!<br />
<br />
No, it is not an underground club where women fight. I could never do that! hahaha! It is a challenged through my church. It started 5 weeks ago and we have 5 weeks left. Each week we have spiritual, physical, emotional, and lifestyle challenges. We have ground rules and 4 things we have to fast from during the 10 weeks. Breaking a rule, breaking a fast, or not completing challenges results in a strike. 3 strikes, you're out!<br />
<br />
It has been good, great at times. I am getting stronger. I am learning to love being a daughter of God. I am becoming more disciplined with my time. I am staying committed, even when it gets really hard!<br />
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Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-73949018883969879682013-03-09T07:49:00.001-05:002013-03-09T07:49:33.831-05:00LinusIt was love at first sight. A little over 3 years ago, the most precious thing came into my home. He was sweet, inquisitive, snuggly, and playful. He would curl up on my lap, with his favorite blue blanket in tow. <br />
<br />
Today he is still that same sweet, inquisitive, snuggly, and playful guy. And he still likes to curl up on my lap with a blanket, his head is the only thing that fits. Because...HE WEIGHS 160 POUNDS! <br />
<br />
Linus is my bull mastiff who is more mastiff than bull. He is the most gentle giant I have ever known. He has grown to be a very obedient, loyal, loving, and protective friend. Everyone in the neighborhood loves him. When we go for walks, he must stop so that he can say hi to his friends (humans and dogs). He gets excited when my family comes to visit. He jumps and barks and twists with joy!<br />
<br />
I honestly could not imagine my life without my puppy. We have had some great times and I look forward to many more.<br />
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Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-63328301028227194422013-03-08T23:30:00.000-05:002013-03-09T07:23:47.266-05:00March Madness!I love March for 2 reasons: green and basketball! You see, today I put up my March bulletin board. It's not completely done because it is waiting for the beloved NCAA tournament brackets.<br />
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Each year, I get to share my love of basketball with the kiddos in my class. We talk about statistics, probability, and "Cinderella stories" in the world of basketball. We take time to review the basketball season, go over each team's record, and discuss the level of competition that they have had.<br />
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Then we fill out our brackets. Most of my kids have never done anything like it before. Anyone who is part of our classroom family fills one out (students, teachers, the principal, student teacher...).<br />
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Next, they get hung on the bulletin board with two blank brackets in the middle. These are where I fill in the actual tournament results for men and women, even though we only fill out the men's bracket as a class. As the tournament progresses, I mark each bracket. Every win earns a point.<br />
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This bulletin board becomes the hub of 5th grade for the month. It is exciting to hear the kids talk about basketball, talk about their choices, and see who picks the right teams.<br />
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The winner gets a 2L of their choice. Nothing too fancy, but they love.<br />
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I love basketball. More than that, I love sharing my love of basketball with my students!<br />
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<img alt="Classroom Slice of Life Story Challenge 2013. Feel free to grab this button and use it on your classroom blog. Happy slicing." class="size-thumbnail wp-image-13102 " height="150" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/class_sols_6.jpg?w=150&h=150" width="150" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-91987858516808232402013-03-07T22:31:00.000-05:002013-03-08T06:44:45.600-05:00Just a dayToday was the day after a snow day.<br />
No delay.<br />
No extra sleep.. <br />
No extra time in my jammies.<br />
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It was a day.<br />
ISTEP took place.<br />
I had lunch with the girls from my class.<br />
We laughed like girls do.<br />
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Math was math<br />
nothing too crazy.<br />
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It was a day.<br />
It was a GOOD day.<br />
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<img alt="WRITE your slice. SHARE your link. GIVE some comment-goodness to three other slicers." class="attachment-triton-lite-290 wp-post-image" height="290" src="http://twowritingteachers.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/sols_6.jpg?w=290" width="290" /> Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-38738772209876547962013-03-06T21:49:00.003-05:002013-03-06T22:13:05.321-05:00Snow Day<div style="text-align: center;">
Snow day</div>
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french toast</div>
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coffee</div>
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sweats</div>
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nephew</div>
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shoveling</div>
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snow angels</div>
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walk</div>
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spaghetti</div>
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sledding</div>
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hot chocolate</div>
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snuggles</div>
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nap</div>
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Snow day</div>
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Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19258080.post-74464276748523308672013-03-05T20:55:00.000-05:002013-03-05T20:55:02.976-05:00Mmmm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I baked.</div>
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Dinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12084546820620915147noreply@blogger.com4