Boxes of Dreams

As I contemplate how to address my first post in a blog that I will more than likely never publish, I sit in our "spare bedroom" staring at boxes. Nineteen boxes hold many things that make me, me. A few boxes hold decorations that may or may not find a spot in our new house. A box of wedding memories complete with the thank you notes that I have yet to send out. A life-size action shot of myself playing volleyball accompanies a box of many trophies and awards that, at the time, were all I could think about. And now most of these boxes are filled with books. These are a compilation of unwanted books from retired teachers and garage sales. In this room are boxes that hold my dreams. Some of those dreams have become realities and hopefully the rest will follow suit.

I got married to my best friend in Port Aransas, Texas on a beach with family and friends. According to my weather app on the morning of my wedding day (10/19/13), southern Texas had a 70% chance of rain ALL DAY AND NIGHT. As I look through the box of wedding pictures, I am so thankful for there isn't a cloud in sight.

I played competitive volleyball for the past 8 years of my life. That box of trophies and awards can't compete with the forever friendships I've made because of this sport. If it wasn't for those last 4 years playing volleyball at Baldwin Wallace: I would've had 4 less bridesmaids and 400 less texts from our group message.

These boxes of books hold my dreams of having a classroom. A classroom with an extensive reading library. A classroom I can call my own. Last year was my first year out of college and I ended up with a pretty sweet Title I teaching deal. I was able to work with small groups of students in grades K-3 and provide interventions for students who were reading below grade level goals. Now the one fourth of a classroom I had was manageable and the three other ladies I shared the room with were remarkable, however; I dream of an entire classroom filled with my own ideas... or better yet Pinterest. So we packed up our things (in boxes) and bought a house closer to a district that I was well acquainted with during my student teaching.

As I unpack these boxes and put them in their designated spot only a few remain misplaced - my books.