Thursday, January 29, 2009

I like school again

I have now completed my 3rd week of school for the semester. Life is SOOO much better than it was last week. I have completed all of my assignments that are due for this week and next. The only thing I have to do is finish my presentation for my Human Growth and Development class. I will be teaching the class about infants and toddlers which is pretty much my field of expertise :).

Overall this has been a wonderful week. I started Monday with nothing to do but my night class. Then on Tuesday I watched the Tippin girls who both napped 3 hours...WHOOP! Wednesday I got to spend the morning snuggling\playing with my PRECIOUS Olivia. I was very pleased to hear that Olivia would not get dressed until her mom asked her if she wanted to see Ms Melissa! Then today I watched the Tippin girls for a little while. After that I have spent the rest of the day completing more assignments, papers, and projects. Definitely after last week I have decided no more freak outs. My goal is to stay at least 1 week ahead of my class assignments.

"But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ" Philippians 3:7

Friday, January 23, 2009

Grad School?

I have just completed my second week of grad school. After my first week of grad school I had a mini-meltdown. I thought that going from 9 to 12 hours in grad school would not be such a big deal. However, My research methods professor just posted our coursework for the semester on Sunday, and it's an overwhelming amount of material. He wants us to conduct a research study which is not due until the end of the semester. So, he decided that our topic, research question, and method of research was due on Wednesday (WOW)! I did complete my assignment and then quickly completely many other assignments that are due by this coming Monday.

Now that I have my second week under my belt I looked ahead on my calendar to realize for the next 14 weeks this will be my LIFE!!!!! Therefore, my weekend will be spent desperately study to stay ahead of all of my class work. So here is the question, what was I thinking when I applied to grad school?

Sunday, January 4, 2009

1st Blog Attempt

I have been obsessed with reading blogs from different families at Grace Bible Church. I think this is an incredible way to keep up with everyone! Also, I love looking at the pictures of the kiddos that I babysit!! So after spending the afternoon with Ms Kelly and watching Mama Mia I decided to not accomplish my to do list....BUT MAKE A BLOG!!!

This will be my blog for my many, many, many jobs of babysitting the most precious kiddos in the world. Also, my main job right now is finishing school (according to mom and dad)!!

Thanks and Gig 'Em Ags,
Melissa

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "

Christmas break has been a lot of fun, but it never feels long enough! This is my last week of freedom before I begin my 2nd semester of grad school!

Major News: Over Christmas break I decided what I would like to do with my life and my Master's degree in Counseling. I know for my parents that was a huge deal! I would like to become a Child Life Specialist! CLS are employed through hospitals, and they help families deal with their child's illness. Child Life Specialists provide information, support and guidance to parents, siblings, and other family members.
It is not that difficult to become certified as a Child Life Specialist because you have to take at least 10 courses (either undergrad or master's) in child life or related areas. Once I prove that I am eligible for a CLS internship in which I have to work for 480 hours. That seems like a LOT of hours, but I have to complete 600 hours of an internship for my Master's degree program! During my internship I will prepare to take a national Child Life Specialist Certification Exam!!!! I also plan to continue with my Master's degree in Counseling, and get certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I think my degree with allow me to help children and their families more than just participating in an internship!! My ideal internship would be at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, TX. In addition, CLS internships would allow me gain great experience for my career

Now that I have this major life decision made I feel like I have found a true purpose for my life (besides being Olivia Faith's favorite person)!!! In the moment, I am enjoying being an adult without all of the major responsibilities which is truly incredible :).

Here is the Child Life Specialist website: http://www.childlife.org/


For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11