Juniors and Seniors

Last days of classes for each - anyone notice that both classes chose the same pose?

Saying Good-bye, Senior style

Thursday was my last day with the Seniors. I wanted it to be special for all of us. My class was the only one that had all the Seniors in it, so I decided we needed some closure. I had planned for the two hours of class to be full of memories, thanks, and good-bye. Each classmate would sit in the middle of the circle and one-by-one the classmates sitting around them would say something they loved about the student in the center. Well, time was against us! Presentations didn't get finished because of borthday fun the day before. So, we took the first 20 minutes to finish those. Then by the beginning of second period we were less than halfway through. It just was too hard to be concise. I didn't want to change the atmosphere or squelch what God was doing, but I didn't have much time left. Finally I had to make the decision that only 2 students would say something about the classmate in the center. It still was beautiful. Many kids took the time to say thank you, or to tell how the appreciated someone's walk with God and how it had strengthened their own. Some kids, who had not talked hardly at all because of an earlier falling out, were able to affirm each other and reconcile.

When each student was in the circle, I would give them their present, verse, and a prayer. It was such a joy and priviledge to be a part of this time together. Even with our time modifications, we didn't finish until the end of third period!! Then, the student asked me to get in the center, and each one said something to me. I cried the whole way through it I am sure. The things they said are treasures in my life. God showed me how much He is able to accomplish through me, and I was overwhelmed. Once each student had talked to me, they all stood on their desks and said, "Oh captain, my captain." Then I really started crying! The kids jumped down, and group hugged me, while Vero prayed for all of us.

Words just don't do this event justice. I wish you all could have been there, but I think it might have spoiled the effect. :) Just believe me it was incredible!

Birthday in Review

So, I just realized I have NO pictures from my birthday. I am going to beg, steal, or borrow them from anyone I know :) So, for now, I thought I would just let you know the basics of what happened that day.

First, I talked to mom and dad that morning as I opened my presents. I am so thankful for technology and the ways we can stay in touch. After that I went to school and was with the teachers for Wed. devotions. When I got to my classroom door, Tony came out and said, "umm, I forgot an index card for my presentation today. Can I have another one?" I told him sure he could, let me get one out of my desk. Once I said that, Tony got the FUNNIEST look on his face. So I said, "Maybe it would be better if I got it from the office instead?" He got a huge smile on his face and said that would be much better. Turns out the hunt for an index card gave Tony and Obie time to put a sign on my door and a huge message on my whiteboard. "HAPPY 25th BIRTHDAY MISS BARLOW!" It was sweet. Then during devotions, the seniors swarmed me with cards, a piece of cake, and four of the boys sang a rendition of Happy Birthday to the tune of B-I-N-G-O. Needless to say, we didn't get through all the presentations, but more on that in another message.

In American Lit, my Juniors also swarmed me with cards, Keilah had made no bake cookies, and the best present was that the Juniors worked hard all period long. Next came chapel, were the entire Junior High and High School sang (shouted) the Happy Birthday song to me. Also, three of my theatre students presented in Chapel and did a great job.

Next period was English 9 - and this was a (almost) complete surprise. One of my freshman was at the snack bar and I yelled to him, "get to class Jeff, you've already had your snack!" He jumped a mile, turned around and I saw he was hiding a bottle of Coke. So, I knew the freshman were plotting something :) When I came in they all screamed Happy Birthday and showed me their spoils. None of my classes have ever brought in that much food - it was great. They were so proud of themselves, and I felt very loved.

All through the day students and adults wished me a Happy birthday, even students that aren't in my classes. I read to the first graders, and even they told me Happy Birthday! It was incredible.

After school we had prayer meeting, where I encountered another birthday cake and singing. :) Then we went to Fridolin's for some real food!

It was wonderful! Thanks to everyone who made the day incredible - God totally blessed my socks off!

Forever and a day

I know, I know - I haven't updated this in weeks and a ton has happened. I just wanted all of you to know that I know and plan on writing more soon. really. I can't right now, because I am getting ready for a wedding. Love you and thanks for being patient. Call me if you are desperate to get caught up :)

I'm almost 25!

This has been a wonderful birthday week! It started on Sunday with Ann treating me to lunch at Don Miguel's. It is such a blessing that God has given me a friend who understands how special birthdays are to me. Then TODAY, I received a gorgeous flower arrangement from the ladies in my fam. It was such a delightful treat, and I loved seeing how much I am loved.

Another birthday blessing was my package from home. All of us were praying that it would come in before Wednesday. Well, I was so thankful when I came home tonight and saw the box between my doors. God is so good to us :)





Thank you all for your love, prayers, and support.

Happy Birthday, Adia!

Hooray! My niece is two today! Happy Birthday sweetie - Auntie Em loves you :)