Visit

by Erica

I love when I am able to get together with my girl friends. About two weeks ago, one of my friends from high school came for a visit along with her husband and sister. With all that has been going on, I haven't had a chance to write about it. We went up to Estes Park and went on a four mile hike to Emerald Lake. Believe it or not, I ran into a Cedarville grad along the way. What a small world.

1st Day of School

by Erica

It's funny how some traditions stick with you. For example, growing up I would pick out my first day of school outfit and lay it out on the floor the night before. Now, I didn't lay everything out last night, but I certainly picked out my first day of school outfit.

It was a good first day. I have 7 new students and the remaining 17 are returning students from last year. It was so good to see them again. When I walked out my door this morning I felt like a rock star. They all shouted, "Mrs. Heddings" at once. It was cute. I started laughing.

At this point, I don't have any students who stick out to me as too high maintence. I have my usuals from last year, but I know how to deal with them. I am pretty excited about this year. It should be a good one.

** I took pictures of my students today. I had to post this one.

LET'S SAY THANKS!

by Erica

*edit* I received this from my father-in-law today. It took me all of 2 minutes.

If you go to the web site http://www.letssaythanks.com/ you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq. You can't pick
out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services.

It is FREE and it only takes a second.

Missing My Girls

by Erica

I saw this picture as I was looking through Allison's wedding pictures. Boy, do I miss these girls (as well as the ones who are not in this picture). The picture is not the greatest, but it reminds me of what it is like to just sit and chat with my closest friends.
I received a call from one of my friends, Mandy. She just called to tell me that she missed me. I am glad that my friends feel the same why that I do at times. Although you won't read my blog for another 3 months, I love you anyway, Chandler!

Happy Anniversary

by Erica

Wow, 35 years together! Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad.

Summer is Winding Down

by Erica

Yesterday I was struck with panic as I realized that the school year is quickly approaching. I started thinking about all I had to do between now and next Thursday. Today, I was able to get into the school and set up my room. I was there for the entire day, but I was able to get so much done.

Our school went through renovations this summer. I came back to new carpet, white boards instead of chalkboard, new paint and air conditioning! What a blessing that will be.

Last year I became very frustrated with the amount of negativity that ran through the school. Too many women in one area is never a good idea! I am creating goals for myself. To begin, I am not going to listen or become part of this back and forth banter. I do realize that I may become unliked, but I did not like the person that I became last year as a result of listening to so many cranky, ungrately people. These people need to be stood up to--or simply ignored. Next, I need to let go of some bitterness towards a couple of people that has carried over from last year. I got myself worked up again this evening just thinking about it. I need to make a phone call tomorrow and then be done with this situation.

I am going to be in my room setting up for one more day and then enjoy the last week of summer vacation. Sadness.

Great Weekend!

by Erica

We just spent a great weekend with my parents. They arrived on Thursday and left this afternoon. Here are a few events from our weekend:

On Friday we went on The Georgetown Loop. My dad has been into model railroads since I can remember. Riding on a train is something we haven't done since I was very young. Afterwards we went on a gold mine tour in Idaho Springs and then to Beau Jo's.




Saturday we drove to Colorado Springs and drove up Pikes Peak. Then we went to Ken's house to show my parents where Jason grew up. For dinner we went to Carol's house so that mom and dad could meet the horses and the minis.





I bought a pattern and fabric to make my own curtains. Needless to say the pattern was difficult for a beginner to follow, so mom, being the experienced sewer (sew-er not sewer) that she is, helped me tremendously. Now, we have curtains for our extra bedroom! Next up for me-pillows.

My Favorite Picture of the Summer

by Erica

Jason took this picture one Saturday afternoon. It captures my favorite activity as well as what I wish I was doing right now. Plus, don't all the animals look cute! Ah, summer days.

24+ Hours of Driving

by Erica

Today Jason and his dad are driving cross-country in one of these. Does this sound enjoyable to anyone? They are taking Leanne's belongings out to her as she is now living in NY. Please send your prayers their way as it will be a long drive!

Happy Birthday, Karisa

by Erica

Happy birthday to my sister, Karisa. Go here to wish her a happy day.

New Room Change

by Erica

Jason and I have tackled another room in our house. We transformed our 2nd bedroom from a music/everything room to an actual bedroom. Here are the before and after pictures. (Note: window coverings are coming soon. They are a work in progress).