Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Following God- Giving up a huge opportunity

In 2009 I worked for Autism Pensacola, Inc. as an instructor at Kids For Camp (A summer program for kids with autism and their friends and siblings). It was an amazing experience that forever changed my life. It was at that point that I absolutely new that I was supposed to work with young children with autism. Thank God, in 2010, I was given that opportunity. I now teach pre-k students with developmental delays and autism at Ensley Elementary in Escambia County. I am so passionate about my job!

In 2010, I could not work during the summer because I could not find childcare for Luke. So, I volunteered with the siblings and "typical peers" at the camp. Logan, Sydney, and Gracie went with me and volunteered their time also. 

This past school year (2010-2011) I taught school and worked on several extra projects during the year. When it came time to apply for Kids For Camp, I was so excited. I could not wait to work this summer. I was hired as a Lead Teacher and I began preparing for the six weeks of camp. Then, Grandma passed away.  She always stressed how important time with the ones you love is. That is all she wanted- time. As I prayed and sought God, I began to feel His urging- my family needs my time. My children need my nurturing. My husband needs my love and support. My mother needs my comfort and support. 

I talked with my mother at length about what I felt God was speaking to me about my family. She prayed as I came to a decision. I, then, had to make a phone call to a lady I highly respect. It was a tough phone call because I knew that this lady was upset with me- I hate when people are upset with me. I put her in a tough position because she had to find someone to replace me. Although I desperately wanted her approval and really wanted to opportunity to network this summer, I knew that this is what God was leading me to do. So, I stepped out in faith. I decided to stay home with my children this summer. I was told that I would not have the same opportunities next year if I did not work the camp, and there was fear, of course.

Faith is the substance of things not seen- While I know that I upset some people, I truly believe that my life will continue to be blessed. 

Friday, June 17, 2011

Grandma Ree (Gigi)

Marie Haller 1923-2011


My grandmother passed away at 1:00am on Monday June 6, 2011. She is my mother's mother. I would like to copy what my mother wrote...


Marie Haller 

  |   Visit Guest Book

HALLER, Marie J., 88, of Milton, Fla., passed away June 6, 2011. She was born May 22, 1923, 

in Elizabeth, N.J., to Charles and Luella Haller. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Charles Haller and Frederick Haller; and sisters, Doris Merkel, Ethel Farley and Emma Koenig. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Joanna (Raymond) Rogers and Susan (Bob) Young; grand-daughter, Jaime (Marty) Daniel; three beloved step-grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Mrs. Haller was a native of New Jersey and she moved to Tampa in 1956. She later moved to Milton, Fla., in 2007. She served in the Hillsborough County School District for 32 years and volunteered 12 years with the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center and 10 years with University Community Hospital. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, where she served in a variety of ministries. Always a lady, Marie was known for her kindness, compassion, strong work ethic and beautiful smile. She loved life, volunteering, walking, reading, bicycling, music and dancing. She loved her Lord, her family and her many friends. A celebration of Marie's life will take place in her home state of New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or become a volunteer.

Special thanks go to The Forsyth House, Milton, Fla., and Covenant Hospice for their heartfelt care.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Spring Soccer in Pace

Sydney and Gracie were on the Rowdies. Logan was on the Cosmos. Here is the last picture they took after they received their trophies. They were sure proud of themselves :)

Are these not some of the best looking kids you've ever seen! I just love this picture that was taken by their dad :) 

Sunday, May 29, 2011

The Daniel Family- We a crazy bunch...

Take us or leave us we are the Daniels! This crazy family is made of two step-daughters, one step-son, one son with a disability. At the top of the family are two people who came together as broken people and found that God will heal and bring together a very broken family and create in them a peace and a bond that is stronger/

We are happy to be us!