Praise the Lord for his victory over the grave!! Easter is just around the bend, and we are so excited to be able to go home-I still call it that even though home is where Jason is-to Rockford. My first baby shower is this Saturday, and I can't wait!! Little Boy Olson has been growing so much! I can't believe it...he can pack quite a punch...and he has been kicking so hard lately that it almost hurts, but I love the activity. He constantly reminds me throughout the busy days at school that he is alive and well and even approving of some of the lessons and activities that the kids are doing:) I love having a constant companion. I am finding it harder and harder to get up from sitting on the floor, fitting behind the table, picking things up off the floor, etc. These are going to be an interesting next couple of months for sure!!
Jason and I are excited too because we were able to find a doula for the birth of our son. For those of you that don't know, doulas are birthing assistants. So many friends have recommended that I have one, so I thought I'd look into it more. I am already feeling more at peace and even more excited for labor and delivery...crazy to hear myself say that as I have had my share of fears. Doulas are basically advocates for the woman....they are there to encourage you, remind you of your birth plan, and inform you when you stray from it. They are there before the birth, during and after to help you get settled and comfortable. I look forward to getting to know her and explain my expectations and hopes for this exciting adventure in our lives!
I just started at Centennial Middle School this week, and oh boy are they a squirrelly bunch!! It is going to be a fun, though, and I have never met a more encouraging staff in my life. They welcomed me with open arms...I feel like one of the group:) Today we had a huge breakfast buffet during our meeting time--complete with chocolate chip pancakes, hash browns, eggs, toast, bagels, juice....everything a hungry pregnant teacher could ever want:) I appreciate their efforts to not gossip about staff and kids...our conversations are so edifying and encouraging, and deep:) I already am hoping to find a team like them for the future years in teaching...what a breath of fresh air compared to some other experiences I have had!! (As some of you are well aware of)
Another praise....Jason was just offered a job with Wilderness Inquiry, so in addition to his supervisor position with the boys, he will be leading some trips this summer as a wilderness guide...up on he North Shore, Apostles, the St Croix, and even some around the country--the cool thing about this organization is that they believe in integrating participants with special needs and getting them out on the trails and into the boats...Jason gets to combine his passions--working with kids with needs and being outside and playing in the sun and the water!!! I am so happy for him and know that this summer will be busy but also such an amazing time for growth and wonderful opportunities.
Happy Easter Everyone!! Remember that He is Risen!

"There in the ground His body lay, light of the world by darkness slain. Then bursting forth in glorious day, up from the grave he rose again! And as He stands in victory, sin's curse has lost its grip on me. For I am His and He is mine. Bought with the precious blood of Christ!"