Change Up!

I took some big risks this summer.  Some were super personal.  Others not so much.  In addition to our new (absolutely beautiful) family member, there were a lot of changes going on in the Jones Family.  I entered this summer pretty run down. Physically, emotionally, spiritually...any way you looked at it, I'd had enough.  This mindset that I was just "stuck" was really depressing.  Then, out of nowhere, everything changed.  And within two weeks, my life had suddenly started down a very new path.  I got a new job.  And have I told you how awesome it is?  I'm not going to disrespect Hardin.  My years there were great.  I met some great friends and learned a lot about myself and teaching.  But my new school just feels like a perfect fit for me.  I've worked harder these past three weeks than I have in years.  It's challenging, but its fun.  The atmosphere is positive and uplifting.  I mean, it must be right?  Because I'm driving roughly an hour to an 1 1/2 hrs one way and I'm STILL looking forward to going every day. I can honestly say its not just a paycheck.  I feel like I'm making a difference.  I feel like I'm working towards something great.  And that really is a reward in itself.  To have a purpose means everything.   In my personal life, things are improving.  I feel confident, and I have a lot more clarity in what I want for myself and my family.  A friend asked me once if I believed God spoke to people.  I am sad to admit that I kind of hedged away from the answer, because at the time, it was something I was questioning myself.  But, this summer, I believe that He did.  There were no lights from the heavens or crazy visions.  Just the certainty that I was doing what was right.  That everything would be ok and taking these chances wouldn't be a bad thing.  My family (in laws included) have been super supportive and I will never be able to repay my friends who were there in the breakdowns and long, crazy nights.  Everything that was done for me was not taken for granted.  My problem was simply fear.  I was afraid of what would happen if I challenged the status quo...I was afraid that if I stepped out on the edge, the mountain would collapse beneath me.  It didn't.  Those obstacles that were so intimidating two months ago seem almost laughable.  I'm not going to say everything will be perfect from here on out.  I've had a few low points along the way.  But fear is not going to be something I succumb to any more.  Fear is just a mental obstacle.  Once you get past it, you realize that the possibilities are endless and exciting! My kids are awesome and beautiful.  My family is actually moving FORWARD and not just spinning our wheels.  My job is fun.  I truly cannot ask for more.