"Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction, ends up being the biggest step in your life. TIP TOE if you must, but take the first step!"

OK folks! It has been about 8 months since my last post. Since I have not shared this site with anyone, it's really just for me right now. Well, me and whoever out there ran across this randomly, to which I say THANK YOU for reading! The past month has been an exciting blur for me. Last summer I decided (finally!!!) it was time to look into teaching overseas. In September, I signed up for a very inexpensive online recruiting site recommended by someone I know. I looked regularly at jobs that were posted, though never taking "the leap" to go that final step. In December I turned 31 and then 2013 started. I was rejuvenated with excitement and yearning for the next step of my life, which I felt was beyond where I am now.

Over the past few years, I have found myself again after removing myself from a toxic situation.  I have gotten back to my desire for more. I've never really been one to be content with where I am, simply because I want to do, see, and learn more. My Daddy always told me I could do anything. Both my parents always instilled in me hard work and appreciation. My positive outlook on life paired with all these things fostered a desire to see the world. People and new cultures are fascinating to me. I have always wanted to go to China and this was my first choice of places to go and visit. As I began to think about the possibility of seeing more, I got more and more excited. At the end of January I was interviewed for a special education position three times at one school before they told me that they had already offered a contract to another person. They later offered me a different position, then a week later, took it back. I was DEVASTATED!!! But, I needed a new plan. Life is what you make of it. I found a quote a while back that said "Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction, ends up being the biggest step in your life. TIP TOE if you must, but take the first step!" Every little step has taken me a little farther. I then sent letters of interest for 6 other schools. I got two other interviews and two more job offers. Then another school sent me a letter of interest. So, at this time, I had four job offers!!!  I weighed my options and finally made a decision.

So, that's where I sit now. I am awaiting the official contract to come and have realized that in less than 5 months, I will be in CHINA!!!

I am SO EXCITED about what this adventure is going to bring for us. It was a series of small steps that led me here, but it just has felt SO RIGHT each step of the way. People keep asking me if I'm scared...and no, I'm not. It feels really right for me, for us. NOW is the time. I honestly believe that God has a plan for us all and that we will end up where we need to be. I had been waiting for this, then realized that Life is what you make of it, I was tired of waiting for a door to open, so I built one.

Until next time...(sooner than 8 months from now)

Amanda :)