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This journey has been unreal.  I have learned so much through my experiences in and out of the classroom.  Every experience that I have had to work with children, I am beyond grateful for! I know that this is truly what I was meant to do.

In the wise words of my daddy:
One of the huge mistakes people make is that they try to force an interest on themselves.  You don't choose your passions; your passions choose you.
Develop a passion for learning.  If you do, you will never cease to grow.
Follow your passion, and success will follow you.
Chandler there is just simply no way, you will not be great at this--I am in awe of your passion towards teaching young children and admire your dedication to things that inspire you.  The only thing left is to watch you transform these young people. I envy how lucky they are to have you as their teacher.

I am ready to continue down this path and see where it leads me.  Student teaching has been an amazing experience thus far.  I am in love with my classroom, my students, my cooperating teacher, and the whole school environment!  I adore the fact that I am in a First Grade class and that I am finally do what feels right.

Over Winter Break (in December), I began looking at school districts and filling out job applications. I felt that I was ready for a new adventure, one that would allow me to travel and experience something different.  I started applying in North Carolina, South Carolina, Colorado, Oregon, New Jersey, etc. I wanted to be open to anything.

I also applied to Teach for America, an amazing opportunity that I had been looking at for a few years. I found out on Friday that I was not accepted to join Americorps this year.  I was sad at first, and I still am.  However, now I realize that this may be a blessing in disguise.  I am still open to adventure, but now more of the decisions are in my hands.

I am still applying all over the place and looking at many different areas.  But I think the best option right out of school, may be to stay around home and get my foot in the door.  So New Jersey may be stuck with this dreamer for a few more years!