Summer!!!

 

It’s Wednesday, so it’s time to link up with Jamie for WILW! I’m first and foremost loving that it’s actually Wednesday when I’m doing my “What I’m Lovin’ Wednesday” post! During the school year, I was always so busy that that rarely happened.

As I wrapped up this school year, it was a mixture of emotions as I left my little home of Hope Sullivan Elementary. I am grateful for the start that I got there and all the many things that I learned from the staff and administration. I’m loving that I survived my first year of teaching! I learned MANY things that I will do differently in years to come. As one of my sweet professors said during my time in the education program, “Go ahead and forgive yourself for all of the mistakes that you will make your first year of teaching.” Ha

That would be a fun shirt. :) It just really bothers me that the i isn’t capitalized, and there’s no punctuation.

I’ve never been big on getting pictures of Mississippi everywhere, getting shirts with Mississippi on them, or all of that hoopla. I mean, it’s Mississippi… Now that I’m moving away though, I understand all of that, I guess. I told Zach that I wanted something with Mississippi on it so that I could put it in our new home and something for my new classroom. Well, in my last week as a Mississippi teacher, I received two items with Mississippi on them. Perfect!

This is my Mississippi pottery from my school. I’m  loving it!

This is from a coworker and her daughter. I taught her daughter this year. She cut out the wood and painted it, and she says she’s not artsy/crafty. Pssshhh! I’m loving it!

We had a family gathering last weekend, and if you don’t know, I have a twin brother. We obviously have the same birthday, but our mom’s birthday is the day before ours. My uncle’s is a weekish before hers. So, we did a little early birthday celebrating, and my mom got me a digital picture frame that I love! As I was loading pictures and taking a stroll down memory lane, I couldn’t help but be reminded that I have been blessed with awesome opportunities and people in my life!

It was great to see everyone. Some family I had not seen in years.

I’m loving that it is SUMMERTIME! I love the water, sunshine, and flip flops! What are you loving this Wednesday, reader friends?

Shaped by Grace,

Jessica Hardy

I Ain’t Yo Princess, Leave Me Alone!

 

It’s Thursday, and that means I’m a day late for WILW! I’m still going to talk about  what I’m loving even though it is not Wednesday, because there is a LOT to love right now! Have I ever mentioned that I love Thursdays? They are the my down days. I’ve turned in lesson plans. Tomorrow is Friday. There’s nothing to rush off to. They are just good days.

I didn’t know Zach as a child, but I have a child in my class that I think is pretty close to what I envision him being like as a child. He can’t sit still, and he CONSTANTLY bursts out in song as if no one is around him. He is completely unaware of others around him when he starts singing and dancing. He’s a sweet little thing, too. You just can’t help but love him. Last week during my classroom station rotations when he was at my guided reading table, I loved the compliment he gave. He said in his rambunctious little voice, “Mrs. Hardy, I used to be really bad at reading, but now I’m good at it. I even like it now, and I love reading back here with you.” Then he went straight back into reading the book. I had a big grin from ear to ear.

 

Speaking of reading, it is time for those end of the year benchmark assessments to see the children’s reading level. I had two children this year that came to me on a kindergarten reading level (I teach second grade), and those babies are both now only one level away from where they need to be right now! I am loving their progress, and I am thrilled that I have gotten to see their growth. It makes me super happy! Today was one of those rewarding teacher moments. 

I’m loving that tomorrow is our second grade Grandparents’ Day. We made crafts to give them when they come tomorrow. Of course I had to model with a craft for my own grandparents. Yes, I will be making a trip to give them the craft! Ha You’re never too old to love on your grandparents.

Below are a couple of my favorites from the kids.

You see that comma and conjunction usage? That’s what I’m talking about! I’m loving when kids actually use what they are taught. We don’t start sentences with and, but that’s not what we’re talking about here.

I love my sweet babies, and it has been a joy to teach them this year. I won’t lie, I’ve lost some hair, but this year has been wonderful. 

I’m also loving that Zach watched the Pixar movie Rio, and now he understands some of the funny quotes I have said.

What are you loving on this Wednesday Thursday, reader friends?

Shaped by Grace,
Jessica Hardy

It’s True

It is. I don’t know how I feel about it, but it is. This summer Zach and I are moving to Texas. He cannot complete his seminary in Memphis, so we will be heading west.

These last couple of months have been a big ball of emotions for me as we decided that that’s what we needed to do. My coworkers probably think I’m crazy, because I’ve cried like a baby a couple of times. Then, there are those times when I’m very excited because of the newness aspect. Then, I freak out thinking about Texas traffic, and I want to curl up in the corner and rock. I hop back to being excited because I abhor apartment living and can’t wait to get away from my obnoxious neighbors. I think about the wonderful school and staff I am a part of now, and tears well up in my eyes every time. It will be great to live by Zach’s sister and her soon-to-be husband, but we’re leaving so much family and so many friends here. I am just a mess!

Zach and I went to Texas this weekend and got to stay with Lydia and spend time with Jose as well.

Don’t they look precious together? Thanks again for letting us stay with you, Lydia! I accepted a position at ACI Academy in Fort Worth. I will either be teaching 2nd or 4th grade. That will be decided closer to August. ACI stands for academics, Christ, and integrity. They centralized Christ in their name because the goal of the school is to keep Christ at the center of it all. I am excited for all of the changes that private school will bring. It’s going to be a big adjustment, but I think I will enjoy it.

 

We don’t know where we will be living yet, but we’re already planning a guest room. This means you MUST come visit! PLEASE!

 

In all of this newness and unknown, God is teaching me to trust Him more. He is gently reminding me that He has never failed to provide or lead in a loving way. My prayer is that my emotions are trumped by my trust in God. I hope all of you had a lovely Easter, reader friends.

Shaped by Grace,

Jessica Hardy

Nawleans!

 

This Thursday, the hubby and I took a road trip to New Orleans to see my some great friends, Amber Grace and Joshua Heath. This was the first trip Zach and I have taken as just the two of us since our honeymoon. It was lots of fun just to travel with my man. Let me tell you, the alphabet game can get intense!

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We started out at a disgusting 5:30 in the a.m. I was so excited about the trip that I couldn’t sleep. Ha My eyes told me that there was NO way contacts were getting in there! We got there in time to attend a chapel service in which David Platt was speaking. Let’s just say that we were left with a big challenge.

This was a very fun trip. We were able to do many things that are specific to New Orleans. We went to the Farmer’s Market. It’s only a little different from our little Mississippi markets. Ha They sell alligator and things of that nature. I had to try some.

It was quite tasty. We spent a large amount of time on the French Quarter. People watching is rather fun there. We saw two street shows, walked through the shops, browsed the street art, ate Cajun food, and OF COURSE had some Cafe du Monde twice.

We ate at a place called City Diner right before we left, and it was the BEST food I think I have ever tasted! It was absolutely and incredibly delightful. If you ever go to New Orleans, City Diner is a must! It’s actually in Metairie, but that’s really close to New Orleans.

That’s not a plate. That is a pizza pan! They have pancakes so big that they take up a whole pizza pan. Not only are they huge, they are DELICIOUS! I might go back just to eat at this restaurant.

 

This was a wonderful trip. We went with the agenda of seeing friends, but in that trip God showed me some things in my life that need to change. I was challenged greatly, but that will have to come in another post. I hope that you had a great weekend, reader friends.

Shaped by Grace,

Jessica Hardy

Just Give It a Couple More Years…

It’s Wednesday! It’s Wednesday! It’s Wednesday! This means I get to tell you all about what I’m lovin’, and we get to link up with Jamie!

First of all, I am lovin’ that it is SPRING BREAK!!! I have gotten in some good naps, and the house is almost immaculate! I feel the need to invite everyone over to see it, because this doesn’t happen very often. I feel like the real reason behind Spring Break is to make sure teachers keep their sanity.

I am also REALLY lovin’ that tomorrow the hubby and I are taking a road trip to see Amber Grace and Joshua Heath Warren. I keep telling them that God has spoken to me and told me to tell them that they’re supposed to go where Zach and I go. They aren’t listening. Ha They have moved to New Orleans for seminary, and we are going to visit for a couple of days. I am STOKED!

I am REALLY, REALLY lovin’ my man!

Isn’t he a HUNK?!? Ha That picture is a joke, but in all seriousness I have something to address in my “newlyweddedness”. Yes, I made that a word. Apparently Zach and I are in what people call the “honeymoon stage”. What I have heard is: “Just give it a couple years.” “This will wear off.” “Wait till you’ve been married as long as us.” “Enjoy it while it lasts. When it wears off, it’s awful.” “You won’t like each other in a couple years.”

Well, ya wanna know what? Poo on you! My marriage doesn’t have to be like that. I know I have a lot to learn about marriage; I haven’t been married all that long. There are some things I have learned though in my lifetime that are definitely applicable to mine and everyone else’s marriage.

 

If you don’t mind, I would like to share my findings.

1. God created marriage, and it is a covenant. God does not create covenants to be broken and has never broken a covenant. Genesis 2:24

2. Marriage is to be a reflection of Christ and the Church. This is a GLORIOUS parallel. Our marriages are supposed to point to the glory and goodness of God! When you enter into relationship with Christ, He does not say that the relationship will eventually wither and fade. He does not say that one day He will decide to be selfish, abandon you, or decide that He loves us no longer. No. His love is unconditional, sacrificial, and selfless. He tells us to exhibit that same love in our marriage. *Ephesians 5:22 ff *1 Corinthians 13:4-7

3. Husbands are to lovingly lead their wives and wash them with the Word. *Ephesians 5:22 ff

4. Wives are to respect and submit to their husbands. *Ephesians 5:22 ff

5. Nagging wives are annoying. Don’t get mad at me. The Bible says it! *Proverbs 27: 15-16 It likewise says that a good wife is more precious than jewels. *Proverbs 31:10 (The whole chapter is good, really.)

Now, I know that this is much easier said than lived out, but it is a choice. I know I get on Zach’s nerves sometimes, and he gets on mine as well. We are two imperfect people meshing opinions, habits, and lives. This isn’t the easiest thing to do. I get that. Again, it is a choice. I love my husband, and I sure do love the gift of marriage that God has given us.I love that God will give me the power to honor the covenant I have made with my handsome husband. On July 7, 2012 I said vows that I wish to honor for the rest of our lives. I vowed to honor, respect, encourage, and love him. I didn’t say that I would forget about these things after 15-20ish years.

I think I said it like so: “Till death do us part.” I want to have my “honeymoon stage” for our next 160 years. I tell him he’s not allowed to go until he’s 187 until then. How have you served your spouse today? Have you prayed for him/her? Have you prayed with him/her today? When is the last time you pointed out something that he/she does well? When is the last time you complimented or encouraged your spouse? Let’s get really real…when is the last time you went to the bedroom? Hey! The Lord said it is good! IN MARRIAGE!!! Read Song of Songs!

Love is a choice, and a good marriage is a choice. I desire for my marriage to thrive forever. That’s how the Lord intended for it to work. I look forward to the many years Zach and I have to serve the Lord alongside each other. I sure do love my man. He opens doors, tells me I’m beautiful, encourages me, surprises me, serves me, cuddles me, and he does an excellent job of washing me with the Word. What are you loving, reader friends?

Shaped by Grace,

Jessica Hardy

I think I threw my arm out!

 

So, I’ve never done this whole Throwback Thursday deal, but I think I wanna try it. I also think this is an instagram thing, but I don’t mind stealing it for a blog. I am throwing waaaaaay back. I love looking at pictures. Pictures are the best way to relive our memories. I am going to share some pictures that really make my heart smile. Are you ready for this ride?

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For those of you who do not know, I have a twin brother. I denied our physical likeness for the longest time, but I’ve had to come to terms with it. As soon as my hair is up and my make-up is off I look just like Jimmy Neal! No, he does not have curly hair for those of you wondering. He has moved to Arkansas, and I miss that knucklehead very much.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There was once a time in our baby years in which I was chubbier, but this indeed is not that time. Ha

PWUH HA HA HA! That’s all I can say.

I LOVED dresses, pantyhose, and clip-on earrings. I was such a diva. Now, I just like my sweats.

This one has me in tears! Oh, sweet goodness.

Pssshh, why would you think I was snooping through my stocking?

Look how sweet Jimmy was! I hadn’t grown into my teeth yet. Ha

I love my precious Pappaw! I was getting me some Pappaw kisses. We called it Hollywood. He still gets Hollywood sugars on his bald head! I’m so thankful for the male influence he was in my life. He taught me all about shooting guns, riding four-wheelers, baiting hooks, catching and cleaning fish, root beer floats, and most of all love. His most famous statement: “Get out of my chair!” Ha ha He’s in his 80’s, but he’d still fight someone over me, I know it! I love you, Pappaw!

It wasn’t loaded. Calm down! I have girly shoes on with flooding Hee Haw overalls and a striped shirt that definitely does not mesh well. Let’s not forget I’m holding a gun. Ha

This picture is only about 5 years old. This was the night that I realized Zach was paying special attention to me. Amber Marie and I went back and jumped on the hotel beds. We could use the excuse that we were freshmen in college, but I think we would still probably do the same thing. I’m not sure how I got so high. Maybe it’s because I was twitterpated. Don’t know the definition of twitterpated? Click here.

 

I have lots of baby pictures of Zach as well. Maybe that’s what I should share next Thursday! I’ve enjoyed my stroll down memory lane, reader friends.

 

Shaped by Grace,

Jessica Hardy

Happy Wednesday!

 

Yeah, yeah, I know it’s not really Wednesday. My Wednesdays are so busy though that I usually miss out on my WILW post, so ya know what? I’m pretending that it’s Wednesday!

 

I’m loving how well my handsome man is doing in DFT’s “The Scarlet Pimpernel”! I’m so proud. I can only imagine what I’ll be like when I have kids! I have been to four shows, and it gets better every time. If you haven’t seen it, GO! It will have laughing hysterically, crying, and picking up your jaw from the floor with the amazing plot and vocals.

 

I’m not really sure why I’m tugging on his shirt. Ha 

As much as I have loved the play, I will also be loving when it is over. I will get to see my man again!

 

I’m very much loving that pretty soon I will have a “For Sale” sign on good ole Tova! Don’t act like you don’t name your cars! Zach’s car will soon be paid off, and I’m excited to get an upgrade. My Tova has been dependable though if you know anyone interested. I don’t have a picture, but she is a ‘94 Ford Taurus that has a little less than 80,000 miles on it. She was owned by elderly people before myself. It has been kept up well. I would REALLY love a huge truck, simply because they make me feel big. Let’s be real though, those aren’t very practical for our future kiddos.

But they sure are fun!

 

I’m also loving that being in the classroom gives me so much to laugh at. I swear I’m going to write a book one day! I’m also loving that my class is doing Move to Learn everyday. This is a program that encourages physical activity in the classroom tied in with academic activities or simply for a brain break. It is proven that physical activity increases academic performance. My kids LOVE it, and I love watching them and doing it with them. The website is movetolearnms.org. They have great fitness videos and lesson plans to download. It’s FREE! When I was logging in the other day I loved the mention of Delta State HPER program looking over all of the activities to make sure that they were developmentally appropriate. Way to represent, Delta State University and encourage Mississippi to get moving.

What are you loving this Wednesday Friday, reader friends?

 

Shaped by Grace,

Jessica Hardy