As many of you know, I am a spunky first grade teacher. I work at Eakin Elementary which is close to Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. This is my second year working there and I have loved every second. I am constantly amazed by the love and kindness that the staff show to myself and to the children daily. It is a positive and loving community of people who are dedicated to furthering the kids’ education. One of the hardest parts of doing this race is the thought that my kids are going to be in second and third grade when I return. I have had two years of amazing students that I want to see grow up all the way through Eakin. It is hard to think that I will not physically be there even though of course they will have my support and love from miles away.
It has also been the biggest blessing living in the same city as my parents and grandparents. Five years moving away and going to UT Knoxville was enough for me! Now I enjoy spending time with my family whether it is going to lunch/dinner or hanging watching movies. My family has always been so important to me and I feel like we have gotten even closer the past year and a half.
Of course my friends are such big parts of my life. I am thankful that I have gotten to live with friends I love ever since my freshman year of college. Currently I live with three of my best friends in a house conveniently located in 12th south which is a super hip part of Nashville. It has been fun living live with the girls who encourage and love me so much. I also am thankful for my community outside of my house, too. Friends in Memphis, Knoxville, North Carolina, Hawaii and Nashville have such big spots in my heart. I am sad to leave such supportive friends but I know that these friends will love me across continents.
I am excited to share my journey with you. Hear me say that I am nervous and will always be in need of your prayers through the ENTIRE process and even when I come back home to the states.
Feel free to call, email, take me on a coffee date, etc. I am thankful for you all!
