Working Heart-ily

Vocation: Special Ed Collaborative Aide, Ayala High School, Chino Hills, CA.

It's been awhile since I've written a blog post here. Don't worry, I've had many "considerable thoughts." I've posted on my other blog, shared shorter contemplations on social media and maybe just been a little too busy these last 6 months.

Summer break is now upon me. I've considered what to do...no, it was never considered, it's more in the imperative! ---Rest, Refresh and WRITE!

Something to ponder...what are you doing this summer? 

Many photos within my phone take up needed space, as my device keeps telling me--it is feeling FULL. So, here's a photo-blog and hopefully, some inspiration for your own considerable thoughts.

The school library right at dawn. 

The school year started out with an unknown assignment as a one-on-one aide. I found myself placed with a student who never showed up until late October. By then, another position opened up in that same classroom. I applied and got the job. I now work with a teacher, several other support staff like myself, in a population of high schoolers with very special needs, one of which is communication. This environment has taught me a lot through observation, interaction and dialogue with the more experienced. I have fallen in love with the kids, esteem my co-workers and just truly look forward to going to work each day. Enjoying the culture of high school and all it entails--football games, rallies, plays, presentations, interactions and challenges, I am blessed to work at a great high school with wonderful people.

Have you considered the blessings your employment brings, other than paychecks?

Philippians 2: 1-3 If therefore there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 

Cheering for our National Award-Winning band and color guard. 

Mascots, cheerleaders, teams and fans.

Are you part of a team?  What does that look like for you?  

Ephesians 4: 16 "...from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by that which every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love." 

Dancing at the Special Ed Prom

Inclusion

Student "K" with our Student Body VP, Prom Fashion Show 

One of our students  modeling with one of our gen. ed. sudents 

 He is 15 and a freshman this year. He has a thick head of dark wavy hair and a smile that lights up a room. He loves to watch things fall to the ground and cheers for himself as he goes on the lift of the bus. He has my heart.

Is there someone or something who just "has your heart?"

 A gathering spot for our Thursday outings, English Springs Park gets us outdoors and enjoying the lake and its many attractions. We went a few times this year. It's a great place to take pictures, move to the music you create, walk, build strength, enjoy nature and swing your feet to touch the clouds.

Be free today. Be creative.  Reach your hands and feet to the sky. 


Psalm 36:5 "Thy lovingkindness, O Lord, extends to the heavens, Thy faithfulness reaches to the skies." 

Have you enjoyed a picnic lunch with some friends lately? 

Be observant. You don't want to miss the goose on the bathroom roof, right?  I think he--or she,  is the observant one. 

There is something to be said about order, balance, linear design, color and grouping like items.

Aesthetics. What does this communicate to you? 

Proverbs 22:29 Do you not see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings...

Our ASL kids (American Sign Language) include our class in their annual Variety Show. During 2nd period, they joined our kids in teaching them sign and to dance to the song, "I Like to Move It, Move It" from the Pixar movie, Madagascar.  Here are a few practice shots.

What "moves" you? 

Even one of our security guards got involved. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean onto your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."


Bowling, another popular activity of learning and playful competition became one of MY favorite outings. A strike never marked my scoreboard, but I can say I did achieve a couple of spares. The kids beat me--always by a long-shot!  But then again, I've never claimed to be the sporty-type, more the "stay-the-heck-away-from-a-ball" type.  There's always, always hope.

Have you tried anything new lately, challenged yourself or have something on your bucket list you're anxious to cross off---maybe sky diving?  


Christmas time. The beauty and message of love for all is so visual. Decorating the tree with snowflakes and giving our friend and school receptionist Mrs. Sue more reasons to smile; we delight in the Season of Sparkle and Light.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from D125

We're 6 months in. Consider your new year's resolution if you made one. Better yet, a new summertime goal. Whatever you choose to do, do it well and love one another in the process. 

God is good. Thanks for reading to the end!


Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do , do your work heartily, as for the Lord, rather than for men."