...so many interests...

I am currently student teaching in a sixth grade class.

Before I say more, yes, I know I am crazy. Up until January, I was scared of junior highers. I walked into the first day of my eighth grade internship in January and was SO nervous! I left that day feeling like I was hit by a bus, but in the next few weeks, I fell in love. Junior high is such an awkward age, and I can't help but love them. I did choose to student teach in sixth grade because I prefer the elementary school setting where I have a core group of kids for the majority of my classes. I currently have some very needy kids in my class, and I love devoting my time to serve, love, and teach them.

Anyway, back to my original thought. In this school, I teach social studies to all three sixth grade classes. Now just in case you don't remember what you learned in social studies, let me refresh your memory: Ancient Civilizations. China, Egypt, Greece, Rome, etc. Well, since it is the end of the school year, we just finished Greece and are moving into Rome.

 Let me tell you, as I have been prepping to teach this unit, I have re-discovered another aspect of myself that classifies me as nerdy. I love history! I find it fascinating! My favorite part of history, though, is seeing how everything connects and relates. I simply love ancient history, but it drives me crazy that I have not found a good source for learning biblical and ancient world history paralleled. This pet peeve has sparked an interest in learning history and writing my own text book. I know this may sound a little crazy, but the possibility excites me...especially since I will be living in Turkey next year...practically in the center of where all that ancient history took place! To travel to Greece, Italy, Ephesus, Egypt, Israel, Palestine...the world literally feels like it is at my fingertips just waiting to be explored!

Will I actually write this text book? I have no idea. Right now, I just know that God has revealed yet another aspect of life that I am excited about and interested in. The list just keeps growing. :-)

As I continue to student teach and prepare for next year, please pray that I listen to the Lord's guidance. I have an option to pursue a Masters in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Despite the fact that it is only $13,000 including tuition, books, lodging, and fees, is it the best option financially? Or should I pursue another option to just get a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate for about $300? Should I study history? Should I take a year off from formal schooling?

Lead me, LORD. Wherever you lead, I will follow. Give me a discerning heart to follow your call.