VBS Update

Phew! That's the best way to describe this week. It has been a whirlwind of craziness and fun. I've enjoyed our week and being with the precious pre-k kids I've been teaching. I've enjoyed the 3 other teachers I've gotten to know better and had the privilege of working with. I've loved all the sweet little catchy songs I've learned this week. My kids have had a blast in their classes singing, doing crafts, playing and learning. I was truly touched by the sweetness and innoncence of the precious kids we've been teaching. They are all so sweet and precious...even the difficult ones. And there have been some difficult ones for sure. On day 2, we got twin boys who have special needs. We don't know exactly what their "needs" are, but it was pretty obvious pretty quick that they didn't like to follow directions, be in groups or function at a "normal" pre-k level. They have been a challenge all week. However, they have also been extremely loving and affectionate and seem to like us alot. Having never taught young elementary grades, I didn't realize how much affection this age likes. They like to hold your hand and sit in your lap. They cry easily and need lots of encouragement. I knew I did all this for my 3 kids, but just hadn't thought about this age in general and all of it's neediness. I'm still pretty sure that my strength in teaching is still with middle grades, (unless they're my own kids). But, this has been a fun and exhausting challenge. The only downside to VBS is the fact that lots of parents/grandparents just view it as free babysitting for a week. Thankfully though, our church has done a great job of being so organized that they've been equipped and able to handle every glitch this week. Needless to say, I'm very glad tomorrow is the last day. I have NOT enjoyed getting everyone up, fed, dressed and out the door by 8:30 every day. I feel tired having to plan outfits for every morning and snacks/drinks for the car since we get out at noon and everyone's pooped and hungry. It's tiring dropping everyone off at their designated areas. It's hard coming home and having the energy to get much done around the house. All that to say, I've definitely been spoiled by our laidback homeschool schedule. Even though we're up and fed and somewhat dressed early, not having to go somewhere EVERY day is more of a blessing than I realized. Anyway, I think we all learned alot this week. Most importantly about God's love for us and his desire for us to "round up questions and drive home answers" on Saddle Ridge Ranch!

Here are the words to one of the VBS songs that I have loved singing! There are hand movements too and it's so cute all together!

H-A-P-P-Y (spell out the word)
I am so H A P P Y
and I will tell you why--
I know that my God loves me
cause he shows me all the time.
I am so H A P P Y
and I will tell you why
I know that my God loves me
cause he shows me all the time.
He cares for me-
he has a plan for my life-
that's why I'm H A P P Y inside!!
(repeat)