Monday

I've had a lot to blog about recently, but can't seem to either find the time or the energy to put thoughts into words. I'll try to hit the highlights in this posting.

Work-like many other professions, the School Psychologist's work is NEVER done. I wish I had time to read more professional articles and follow research in several areas. For example, there's a lot of research currently happening in the area of educating English Language Learners. My work with those ELL students is challenging. The issue is that although most of these students speak English and may appear to be fluent, there are still language issues which cause most to struggle academically. It can take up to 10 years for an ELL child to obtain a level of English proficiency which allows them to excel in school. And, we are seeing more and more students whose first exposure to English is when they come to kindergarten, so there's a lot of intensive support needed there.

Family-there's a lot going on here, too. My oldest son is recently unemployed after 5 years with the same company. He's job searching and has applied for unemployment. My youngest son has a good job, but may be facing unemployment in April as his job is considered "temporary". My daughter is looking for an additional job. In happier news, we so much enjoyed helping my uncle celebrate his 90th birthday last Sunday afternoon and reconnecting with people we don't see very often. Spring break is coming up in March, and although we won't be able to take our usual trip to get away for a few days, I will enjoy the time away from the job. April brings Easter, warmer weather, and our annual women's retreat at church. School goes until the end of May, then in July, we have our annual family reunion here in Wichita-the Planks know how to have fun when we get together! I'm enjoying making preliminary plans for that.

Encouraging words-I leave you with God's words to Joshua in chapter one of that book, verse nine: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (NIV) Timely for today, don't you think?

Lydia

Look at these before and after pictures of my dog, Lydia. The first one was taken at the vet's office the first morning I got her. The next one was taken a couple of days ago. What a difference some money, some love, and some TLC makes! She's a great dog.