Jason and Lauren

What a Week

2012-01-11T20:57:00.000-08:00

This last week was quite the week...right after the clock struck midnight on New Years Eve, I started to feel pretty bad. I couldn't sleep that night, and the next morning I was coughing, throwing up and feeling pretty bad. I spent the whole day on the couch, and slept in the next morning. I thought that was going to be the end of it, but I was wrong....

I went back to work Tuesday, after an awesome Christmas break. I diffidently didn't feel 100%, but made it through, and came home and went to sleep. Wednesday I went to school, but should have stayed in bed. You know that's the case when a student says, "Mrs. Bernard you look horrible." That comment didn't sting as bad since I felt exactly like he said. Wednesday night is when my cold took a turn for the worst.

I woke up Thursday morning with a 102 degree fever, was throwing up...and then became dehydrated. My doctor scheduled me for that afternoon to get IV fluids, and medicine. I've never done that before, and when they say, "This medicine may make you sleepy," IT REALLY DOES! I was out for two hours at the hospital, and woke up after it was all done.

Thankfully after all that, I can say that I am feeling a lot better, and we seem to be back to our busy "normal" lives. The baby is 13.5 weeks along, and we are looking forward to our next check-up appointment this next week. I am over the morning sickness (for now) and I have more energy than I did even a couple weeks ago. We also found out we will get to find out the gender of our baby around week 18; only about a month away.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-21T17:31:00.000-08:00

10 Weeks 5 Days

We got to go into the doctor for another check-up today and were surprised when we got to have another quick ultrasound to make sure the baby is growing well. We were laughing out loud because the little guy or girl was pushing off and springing into the air. Even the doctor said we have a very active little one. Maybe a athlete in the future? I don't think I have felt any of these movements yet, but I am sure that will come soon. :)

We watched the baby use its' little arms to grab its' feet, which was sweet. The heart is beating strong, and the baby is growing right on track. We did find out today that we have about 7.5 weeks to wait until we find out for sure if it is a boy or girl...I am leaning towards boy, but we will see. We have another check-up in four weeks, but thankful for the little show we got to witness today.

Nolz Side Family Christmas 2011

On Sunday we had the Nolz Family Christmas at my parents house. It is always good to get the family together, especially now that there are so many kiddos growing up and running around. It cracks me up because each year the "little" girls find Jason and climb all over him and follow him around. My cousin said they always ask if, "Lauren and her boy are coming?" Now that they are getting bigger he gets overpowered more often than not. :) I love this time of the year....thankful for family and friends.

Growing.

2011-12-15T21:14:00.000-08:00

The last two weeks have been us waiting and looking forward to seeing our little one again to pinpoint "exactly" when he or she will make their appearance into the world. So, on Thursday this last week, our waiting was over, and we were once again blown away.

In just two weeks our little baby almost quadrupled in size, and weight. This time she put the jelly on my tummy...which is growing a little bit. :) Instantly there on the screen was our little one. The red arrow is pointing to the head, and if you follow it down you can see the little arm, and then the two little feet. Our baby is about an inch long right now, and is about the size of a green olive. :) It's little fingers and toes are almost done forming, and the brain is growing at an amazing rate. It is amazing to think that all that change and growth is happening without me doing anything.

9 Weeks

While we were listening to the heartbeat, we saw the little feet start kicking! I knew that I loved this little baby, but the second I saw the little feet move my heart literally felt like it was bursting out of me. To think that already our baby is moving blew both of us away! The rest of the night we couldn't stop talking about what we had seen on the screen, and how something so small can have us loving it more than anything else.

The doctor says the baby is looking healthy, and the heartbeat is strong; all good signs, and something any expecting parents want to hear. He also let us know that our "official" due date is: July 14th 2012

Thankful for Baby Bernard!

2011-11-24T18:39:00.000-08:00

It is official....I haven't written for awhile due to the fact we wanted to keep this secret for a little while.....
Jason and I have been keeping a secret, and are so excited to share with the world that we are.....

HAVING A BABY

We feel so blessed that it is happening; and that for us it happened so quickly. We officially found out on Halloween; even though I told Jason at the beginning of October that I knew I was pregnant....I took at least five tests in three days because I couldn't believe that it had actually happened so quickly. There is nothing like the feeling of seeing the word, "Pregnant" pop up on the screen.

Test #5....I couldn't believe it for some reason until this one said "YES"

In less than two weeks we will have another sonogram to verify our due date of around July 14th. Normally they wouldn't test again, but our dates are a little off considering how quickly we got pregnant.

I am thankful that we get to see our little one again. It was amazing seeing it for the first time. We got to see it's bitty heart pumping...God is so amazing to make something so small already have life flowing through it. In two weeks we should not only see it moving again, but should actually hear the heartbeat.

Once again, AMAZING.

We have so much to be thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving from Our Growing Family!

Coach Bernard

2011-11-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

Well...we are still waiting on the house....us Bernards are good at waiting.....we have worked on it a lot the last few years....just because we have worked on it though, does not mean that we enjoy waiting. In a nutshell, we were informed after-the-fact, that the owner of the home had filed bankruptcy. So we are in limbo, waiting for a judge to say that yes the best interest of everyone is to give us the house, or no it will also fall under his bankruptcy. Apparently, his listing agent forgot to include this "minor" detail on all the paperwork that we signed....praying that it will all work out smoothly, and quickly.

On a better note, Jason got to be Coach Bernard this fall! In late August he was asked if he wanted to be head cross country coach in the same week he was offered his position at Straub. I think he was more excited about the coaching. :) He ended up having over 70 kids run consistently the whole season!

His team was AMAZING this year.

All-City Cross Country Meet 2011

His top two runners, Reece (8th grade) and Brooke (8th grade), finished first in every single meet, and were the All-City Champions this year! I would say that is pretty good for a first year coach? :)


3k Girl's team before the final race: They finished 4th overall

3k Boy's Team: These boys were amazing and finished FIRST as a team at All-City

Start of the 6th Grade 2k Run

It was so much fun to watch him coach, and see the passion he has for running rub off on all the kids that were running. This is a sport that Jason introduced me to almost 10 years ago when I went to watch him run for the first time. I love watching the strain and the fight it takes to be a quality runner.

Nice work Coach B.

Home Sweet Home

2011-11-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

We got the house! I can hardly believe it myself, considering we were thinking we were going to have to wait until at least after Thanksgiving to hear back from the bank. This whole process actually went quite smooth. I think a lot of it was due to the fact that we were willing to wait if it meant getting a home that we really felt was meant to be our home. I never would have thought we would put an offer on a short-sale house. In fact we were warned to NOT get into that because they are so hard complete the sale.

For awhile there I was wondering if we would also fit into one of those statistics, since we found out that two banks had loans on the home (rarely does a house get approved and sold when two banks are involved). But....WE GOT THE HOUSE! : )

Needless to say, this has been a VERY exciting week at the Bernard "apartment."

Introducing our future home....that is if the inspection goes well:

Our Home: Salem, OR 97306
2,165 square feet
3 bedrooms/2 bathrooms
Living Room/Family Room/BONUS Room!
$150,000

Front Living Room: Vaulted ceilings with cozy fireplace and bay window.

Kitchen: Has a HUGE pantry...needs some TLC, but great size!

Master Bedroom: Walk-In closet, bay window and large room overall.

Master Bathroom: My FAVORITE detail in the master bathroom!

Backyard: Patio and perfect size yard for what we need, and can take care of right now.

Some of our favorite parts that we don't have pictures of yet...
1. Bonus Room: located up a few stairs, right over the garage. This room is half the size of our apartment :)
2. The fact that there is a separate living and family room.
3. The fact that there are three bedrooms, and a separate full bathroom in the master bedroom.

Needless to say, we are SO thankful and feel so blessed for this opportunity. Awesome week! :)

Fall into Fall.

2011-10-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

Happy 'almost' Halloween!

I love this time of the year. I love the days where the sun is shining, but there is a coolness to the air. I love all the traditions that begin in the fall. I love spending time with friends and family, and getting to sit by the fireplace. I love fall.

Jason and I are helping out with the middle school youth group again this year. We had a superhero night last week....it you "Super-Starbucks" and his sidekick, "Half-Cafe." Creative huh?

Coffee Power!

Jason and his guys had a "Pumpkin Smash" last night. They had pumpkin pinatas, and played video games. Sounds like a good guys night to me. This last week, I got to take my middle school girls to Bauman Farms. Kinsey also made the trip with us, which made it even more fun.

Nial and Kinz :)

What was that?!

Zip-Line!

sisters.

This is the reality....love her. :)

We went through the dark maze, slide down a slide, jumped on a giant "pillow" (see video) and ate caramel apples and apple-cider doughnuts. I know we all had fun because the girls were falling asleep in the car on the way home. :)

Jason and I got to take care of our sweet little niece, Cayden, for a few hours this last week as well. It has been so much fun getting to watch her grow up and to see her little personality come out. Uncle Jason had a lot of fun making her laugh. I think she has diffidently stolen part of both of our hearts.

Gotta love your aunt and uncle. :)

Loving spending time with each other.

Sweet little sleepy eyes. :)

Blessings.

2011-10-13T16:01:00.000-07:00

The past year I have been doing a lot of reflecting on the blessings

that I have come into my life,

and the lives of the people around me.

It has almost been a year since I was called for an interview at Claggett Creek for a job that was originally suppose to last only a month; now almost a year later, although a new position, a job. One of my closest friends was blessed almost a year ago to find out the little baby she and her husband so wanted, for so long, was growing inside of her. I watched Jason's passion for special education grow, and watched the Lord open the doors for him to go to school at Portland State while at the same time get to actually teach special ed. even before he has his endorsement.

When I think of the blessings that have come into my life and the lives of so many that I love, I can't help thinking about the many trials that lead to those blessings. It is always amazing to be at that point where you can look back and see what God brought you though, so that you would be where you are today. At church on Sunday, in both the mid-high youth group, where Jason and I help out, and "big church," it was about the trials that come into our lives, and how those very trials shape us into the people that God wants us to be.

I love the idea that the trials I am going through aren't random, but rather help build my endurance. I love that the Lord knows what is coming, and that He will be faithful to have his plans come to a perfect end. Sometimes I may not agree with that end, but His will and His love is so perfect. I also realize that many of the trials were endure in this life, we won't understand and won't be separated from until we are in heaven.

I am thankful that I have Him to lean on in the midst

of the struggles of life, but also the victories.

I have; we have so much to be thankful for when we look at the big picture. I have listened to "Blessings" by Laura Story so many times since it came out a few months ago. The lyrics really speak exactly what my heart feels, "What if trials of this life are your mercies in disguise?"

"Blessings" by Laura Story
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We pray for blessings

We pray for peace

Comfort for family, protection while we sleep

We pray for healing, for prosperity

We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering

All the while, You hear each spoken need

Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

Chorus: 'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

What if a thousand sleepless nights

Are what it takes to know You’re near

What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom, Your voice to hear

And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near

We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love

As if every promise from Your Word is not enough

All the while, You hear each desperate plea

And long that we'd have faith to believe

CHORUS

When friends betray us

When darkness seems to win

We know that pain reminds this heart

That this is not, this is not our home

It's not our home

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops

What if Your healing comes through tears

And what if a thousand sleepless nights

Are what it takes to know You’re near

What if my greatest disappointments

Or the aching of this life

Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy

And what if trials of this life

The rain, the storms, the hardest nights

Are Your mercies in disguise

Short-Sale

2011-10-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

Well....Jason and I have officially placed an offer on a home here in Salem. We are excited, and I think a little shocked that it all happened so smoothly so far. We hope that it continues in that same manner, since the home we put an offer on is a 'short sale.'

Dictionary Definition: A short sale is a sale of real estate in which the proceeds from selling the property will fall short of the balance of debts secured by liens against the property and the property owner cannot afford to repay the liens' full amounts, whereby the lien holders agree to release their lien on the real estate and accept less than the amount owed on the debt.

vs.

Bernard Definition: A short sale is a sale that allows us to afford a home that we otherwise would not have been able to purchase. But, due to the fact that other people can also place 'bids' on the home, don't get to attached to the dream of owning that home until, and only until the bank has approved your offer, and the papers are signed.

So, needless to say we LOVE the house that we have found, and I have pictured our future family making so many great memories at that place...but another part of me is afraid to get to attached, which is probably smart considering.

Hopefully, our 'short sale,' will actually live up to what its' name is...SHORT. We would love to just know, but we also know that we are going to have to wait, so waiting is what we will do. Maybe we will have some exciting news, and then I can post pictures of the house....would love to call it "Our Home."

3,000 Miles

2011-09-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

This last summer I got the opportunity to drive across the United States with one of my best friends, Lizzie Nobis, in order to get her back to graduate school in Philly with a car. It was a trip to be remembered...

Day 2: Dinner Stop

Below you will see the map that we roughly took. The green line is our driving, and the other is my flight back home to Salem, Oregon. It took us four days to complete the driving...and from what I am saying so far, it sounds like it all went smoothly. The truth is, it was incredibly smooth the first three days. In fact we averaged driving 12 hours on each of those days, and we were going strong. Oh, how we later wished we had 'knocked on wood'...

After our second day of driving, we pulled into our motel stop for the night, and turned on the TV and were greeted with this:

"Irene"

We were over halfway to our intended destination, and a giant hurricane was coming straight toward the East Coast (later to be named Hurricane Irene). At this point the meteorologists didn't know exactly when it was going to reach land, and if it would at all. So, the next morning we continued on our trek.

Big Bug :)

Day 3: Shopping break in Indiana

Lizzie.

Then came the fourth day. The day we had intended to complete our driving part of the journey. The day that we were going to say we made it over 3,000 miles across the U.S. Lizzie began driving that day, and drove for about three hours. My turn started off with me driving along the Ohio State Tollgate Road. After driving for about an hour, Lizzie realized if we stayed on the freeway the whole toll-road, we were going to end up having to pay over $60! So, we decided to make the first of many "good" decisions of the day.

We changed the GPS, named George, to send us on "non-toll" roads. After hitting that button, our trip that day was extended two hours longer than expected...I continued to drive 55 mph for about 10 miles, then we would slow to 35 mph through small country towns. We drove this way for over two hours...making little progress, and making each of us a little anxious to get back on the freeway.

We switched drivers, and made it back on the freeway when I received a call just as we were crossing into Pennsylvania. United Airlines was calling to inform me that my flight, scheduled to leave on Sunday, was canceled due to the impending hurricane. "Okay," we thought, we will change it to Saturday since it was Friday and we would be arriving in about five hours anyway. So, the travel agent made the switch, and I was then flying out of Philly at 6:00pm on Saturday.

Tumbleweed :)

Less than one hour later, we received another call, that that flight was also canceled. In fact, over 10,000 flights along the East Coast were canceled due to Irene! Lizzie promptly got on the phone and attempted to get me another flight out, in order to get me back home before my new job started that Monday. We were told by the travel agent to drive back to Cleveland, Ohio (2 hours west) to catch a 6pm flight to Portland on Saturday evening. After some tears by us both, considering our long day, we turned the car around and began backtracking.

Thirty minutes outside of Cleveland, at around 12:30am we received a call from the manager of the agency, saying that we could not fly from Cleveland since our original ticket was from Philly. We attempted to inform her that all flights on the East were canceled, and we had been told and placed on a flight by one of her employees, and were no longer in Pennsylvania, but in Ohio. While Lizzie, argued and battled with the "helpful" woman on the phone, I descided to drive to the Cleveland Airport...we arrived at around 1:30am...

At 2:00am our "helpful" agent canceled my flight from Cleveland to Portland...in fact she canceled all my flights, and would not take my call...I called my parents and Jason and just cried...I was exhausted, frustrated and just wanted to come home. Lizzie and I descided to drive to a hotel parking lot, sleep for two hours and come back to the airport at 4:30am when it opened...I didn't sleep.

We got to the airport, and after being yelled at by a ticket agent, and asked if I ever 'really' had a flight, I was given a flight from Cleveland to Houston, and then Houston to Portland leaving at 6:10am...it was now 5:36am...I ran out to Lizzie who was waiting in the car and we said a hurried goodbye after being with each other for four days...I ran to security...which the lady made me wait because I didn't go through the empty "maze" line they had set up.

Thankfully I made it to my gate with time to spare...only to have an old lady lean over to her husband and say, "I sure hate it when people just come running up to the gate at the last minute." Really?! We boarded the plane, and after not sleeping for over 24 hours, I was excited to find out I had three seats all to myself. Then we waited...and waited...and then the pilot came over the intercom, "Ladies and gentlemen it appears we are having some problems with the computers across Continental/United flights. Don't worry your connections will all be made." At this point nothing else would surprise me. An hour later we took off, and I fell asleep knowing I would miss my connection in Houston.

We landed in Houston right when my original flight was scheduled to leave for Portland. So, after running across the biggest airport, I slowly made my way to customer service and got on standby for a 2:30pm flight. I was slowly walking through the airport with an 'angel' from a random ticket counter asked me if I was doing okay. I recalled briefly my tale, and let her know I missed my flight due to airplane error. Her response was amazing, "So, it was our fault huh? Well then you would probably like to ride first class. Okay, you are on the first class 2:30pm flight to Portland. And I bet you are hungry (wink)? Here is a meal ticket, get what you want."

Amen!

Amazing view from the plane coming into Portland.

So, after over a day of crazy traveling, flying on my own for the first time and going on little more than a couple hours of sleep, I landed in Portland safely at 5:00pm. It is so good to be home. What a trip, great memories and something hopefully I won't have to experience again. :)

Final speedometer reading...WOW!

Beach Trip

2011-08-30T20:30:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Jason and I got to spend a couple of nights at the beach as our last trip just the two of us for this summer. The best part, was that the three days that we were there it was beautiful weather the whole time; like no clouds in the sky type of weather. :) In fact it was nice enough that Jason and I went kayaking out on Devil's Lake. It was so much fun to "zoom" around and imagine what it must be like to live in the beautiful homes that overlook the water.

It was fun the first day, because my family was there, so we spent the day hanging out with them. Of course we went shopping...something the guys were really excited about. I enjoyed myself because I got three "teacher" tops and a pair of dress capris for $27! It was at the Ann Taylor Loft Outlet...now one of my favorite places to go. Since the weather was so amazing, after lunch at Mo's we spent some time on the beach.

It was a lot of fun getting to spend time with Kinsey too, since she is back up in Portland, and not right down the road to spend time with whenever I wanted to. I am so thankful to have a sister that I love, but also that I love spending time with, and think of as a best friend....so proud of that girl.

After coming back from the beach, we had a couple of down days, and then my friend Lizzie asked me a question that I wasn't expecting..."Will you drive with me from Salem to Philly?" For those who don't know that is over 3,000 miles of driving...my answer was yes...more to come about that trip soon :)

Family Vacation

2011-08-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

This summer we have gotten to spend more time with friends and family; something that we are very thankful for. Recently we went to Sisters with Jason's side of the family. We got to stay in a beautiful cozy home for the week. We enjoyed sleeping in, Sister's Coffee Company, floating down the river and simply just spending time with family.

Every time we drive over the pass to Central Oregon we are reminded of where we met almost ten years ago. We met at Big Lake on a church winter retreat. That was a life changing trip for both of us.

The girls along the Melolius River

beautiful.

Riding the chair lift up Mt. Bachelor

Playing disc golf on top of Mt. Bachelor!

Look at that form ;)

SNOW in the summer!

Got a Job!

2011-08-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official...I got a job back at Claggett Creek Middle School! It became official yesterday, but I will be a full-time employee as the Library Media Specialist. Although it is not a classroom teaching position, I am so looking forward to spending time with the students and staff that I got to know last year.

It amazes me how God knows the plan, and when I left there in June I wasn't sure if I would even have a job come September, let alone a job where I get to make an impact in the lives of students each day. Excited for what's to come, and thankful for what Jason and I have been blessed with for this coming school year.

"Be still, and know that I am God"

2011-07-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

I just got back my letter I wrote myself when I went on the woman's retreat this last spring with Salem Heights (we write letters to ourselves, and they are sent to us a few months later). It was an amazing weekend to spend with family and friends; learning that I am truly not alone. Here is the letter I wrote myself, encouraging words that are always good to hear...

"Life has its' ups and downs, but you are far from alone.

You have a God that is far above all things.

Keep believing, trusting in the Lord when you don't understand

what is going on around you.

Remember the promises you have read in His word,

'...He will make your paths straight...' (Proverbs 3:6).

Those paths though, may be different than you thought or expected,

but they are the roads your father wants you to take.

Lean on Him to show you the way."

Encouraging verses: 2 Kings 18:3-7; Eph. 4:32; Hebrews 13:5; Isaiah 43:18; Exodous 2; Colossians 3:12-15; Phil. 3:13-15; Jer. 29:11-14; Matthew 18:21-35; Psalm 46:10; Psalm 147:3; Psalm 40; John 16:33 and Psalm 37:7

"Be still, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

New JOB!!

2011-07-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

It is official...Jason officially has a teaching job! It came completely out of the air, but what a great surprise it was. I actually thought he was kidding when he told me since it was Saturday, and who gets a job offer on a Saturday? Another reason it was so surprising is he hadn't interviewed for a teaching job since May...I think he made a pretty good impression. :) We had just got home from our co-ed softball tournament when Jason checked his messages. . .

He turned to me with tears in his eyes and said that he had been offered a job! It is a part-time LRC teaching position (Learning Resource Center; special education). He will actually be at the brand new middle school in West Salem, Straub Middle School. With special education there is always the possibility that it could become full-time, but as for now we are over the moon with what he has.

Straub Middle School Under Contruction

Now he is officially in the Salem-Keizer School District in a permanent position, what a blessing. So, if a full-time position opened he could just transfer. Also, since he will be going to school until March to finish his special education teaching endorsement, part-time might be ideal.

Here is a link to pictures from the construction process: http://www.flickr.com//photos/salemkeizer/sets/72157626372612770/show/

It is amazing how my last post was about resting in the Lord...I honestly felt completely at peace about our whole job situation, and when we least expected an offer it came. I am so proud of all the hard work Jason has done with school, work and guiding me in patience and waiting. We are still praying that something will come for me, but as for now we are so grateful, thankful and excited about what this means for us and our future.

God is so good!

Restful.

2011-07-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

That is the word that I would describe our summer. With rest though comes the opportunity to really think about what the future may hold. Since we both lost our jobs at the end of the school year due to budget cuts our futures are somewhat up in the air.

With all this uncertainty comes the nagging thought of, "Why?" I am so thankful that God put into Jason and I the desire to teach and to want to impact people, but without teaching jobs set up as of yet, it makes me wonder what we will be doing in the next few months. But, I did say that 'restful' was how I was feeling...and that is true.

The only way I can describe it, is that I know that we aren't doing anything wrong, it's not that we aren't trying or putting ourselves out there. The truth is, is that our "perfect" plan for our lives is not the ultimate perfect plan of God. So, I am resting in that truth.

I am resting in the fact that He has not let us slip though the cracks, but that He is just waiting to let us see the beautiful work He is going to do through us. I am resting in the fact that I know we will be taken care of, and that we will not be without what we need. Although we want jobs, something perfectly okay to want, it appears that may not be what we needed this summer.

It appears this summer we needed time to rest, or at least I did. This summer is giving Jason time to go to school to complete his master's degree in special education; a passion and gift he has that constantly amazes me. So, as the summer continues, we will not stop working hard, praying hard and will REST in the fact that God's plans are far greater than anything we could have come up with.

Seattle for the Weekend

2011-06-23T16:13:00.000-07:00

Jason and I had our first mini-vacation of the summer last weekend up in Seattle. We drove up Saturday morning and spent the morning wandering around Pike's Place Market. Seattle is such a fun town to visit, with lots to look at and many different things to take part in. I personally love the many unique shops and vendors, with all their bright colors even on a dreary wet northwest day...Jason and I are considering trading in our "teaching" jobs and opening our own booth :)

Later on that evening, we headed to Safeco Field to cheer on the Mariners...needless to say our cheering didn't help them win, but we had a great time being at the ballpark. There is something about actually watching the game when you are only a few rows from the field versus watching it at home. Jason would want me to mention that we were present for Dustin Ackley's first major league home run...actually it was pretty exciting since we were only around 15 seats away from where the ball eventually landed.

It was so good to get away even if it was just for a little bit to escape the reality back at home...this has been a great school year, but also a really hard one. I know that we have both learned a lot about not only teaching but also ourselves. It was so good to get away together to remind each other that no matter what happens, we have each other...that support is something I am so thankful for. So, on to summer...Let's hope it's only good things to come. :)

Last Day of School...of Claggett

2011-06-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

5th/10th Period: English 7

Student's Notes to Me :)

These mean so much to me...

The reason why I teach...

Well, today was my last day of students at Claggett Creek...and my last full day there as a teacher. It's amazing to think that this year went by so fast, and how much we were able to accomplish. I know that my students learned a lot, but I also learned so much. What a learning experience to come into a position at the beginning of November....to classes with no structure...no assignments...and then came me....someone who is a planner and likes to think of creative projects and assignments. Needless to say, I think I was somewhat of a shock to my students at the beginning.

2nd/7th Period: Read 180

3rd/9th Period: English 7 (only half the class :)

Love spending time with this group :)

But we got used to each other, worked with each other, and by the end of the year it was hard to see them go. I am so proud of all that they have accomplished and the strengths that they have been able to build upon. As a teacher it would be easy to say you judge your success based on grades or test scores...which my students excelled :)...but for me how I judge my student's success on how they are doing compared to where they started, not just academically but personally. Going on that criteria, this year was a landslide success. I am so proud of them, and know this year impacted their lives...which is why I love teaching in the first place.

Today is bittersweet though...as of now, I do not have a teaching job for the next school year, even though I am loved and appreciated my my administration and staff. It makes it harder leaving for the summer knowing that once again my future is unknown. I have learned so much, and have made some great friends in the teachers I had the privilege of working alongside. We will see what the future brings...here are some pics of what we participated in after-school today :)

Claggett Creek Middle School: Mrs. Bernard 2010-2011 :)

Third Anniversary

2011-05-17T21:46:00.000-07:00

Today, May 17, is Jason and my third wedding anniversary. :)

It is amazing to think that it has already been that long.

Three years ago, I was so in love with my best friend,

and I am blessed to say that I love him more today than

the day that I married him.

It was the perfect wedding day. It was over 100 degrees

outside, which allowed for wonderful pictures, but the

best part was being surrounded by our family and friends.

This last year has been yet another year with many ups

and downs, but I wouldn't want to wade through it all

without my number one fan, and person I can lean on.

I love you Jason, and can't wait to see what this next year

will bring for us! Happy Anniversary!

He 'Chose' Me

2011-04-25T21:59:00.000-07:00

This Easter morning this song came into my head after celebrating Christ's resurrection at church. What amazes me so much is that Christ came to the earth fully aware and fully committed to the cause of saving those that were lost.

On that "glorious day," Christ knew that He would be killed. He knew what God's plan was, and He did not shy away from it, but died on the cross for the sins of the world. He chose to die, so that I might chose to live.

Christ's ultimate gift was showered down on the day He died on the cross, and fulfilled when He stepped out of the tomb three days later. Hundreds of years later, I was given the choice to believe and accept this wonderful gift that I certainly did not deserve.

I praise the Lord for choosing me to follow Him. The moment I chose to give myself to the Lord, I knew and still believe that He is holding me in His arms, until He calls to to my eternal home. What an amazing thought to know that the God of the universe thinks of me, and cares for me; He chose me.

Glorious Day

by Casting Crowns

One day when Heaven was filled with His praises
One day when sin was as black as could be
Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin
Dwelt among men, my example is He
Word became flesh and the light shined among us
His glory revealed

Living, He loved me
Dying, He saved me
Buried, He carried my sins far away
Rising, He justified freely forever
One day He’s coming
Oh glorious day, oh glorious day

One day they led Him up Calvary’s mountain
One day they nailed Him to die on a tree
Suffering anguish, despised and rejected
Bearing our sins, my Redeemer is He
Hands that healed nations, stretched out on a tree
And took the nails for me

One day the grave could conceal Him no longer
One day the stone rolled away from the door
Then He arose, over death He had conquered
Now He’s ascended, my Lord evermore
Death could not hold Him, the grave could not keep Him
From rising again

One day the trumpet will sound for His coming
One day the skies with His glories will shine
Wonderful day, my Beloved One, bringing
Glorious Savior, this Jesus, is mine

Maui 2011

2011-04-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

Over spring break Jason and I got the pleasure of getting away to a little island...MAUI! :)

Needless to say, we had a wonderful week of 80 plus weather and spending time with friends that it was VERY hard to want to come back to reality.

Relaxing on the beach.

"Be a pepper Jason!"

We got there and had two days where we explored the island on our own before our great friends from Alaska, Jordan and Katrina Weber came to spend the rest of the week with us. We went snorkeling out to Molokini...a crater out in the middle of the ocean. That was one of my favorite parts of the whole trip! (I am just waiting for the underwater photos to get developed) It is amazing how many colorful and strange looking fish there are right under the surface of the water.

Katrina and Me

Jason, Me, Katrina and Jordan in Maui! :)

Boogie-Boarding!

Surfer Chicks ;)

Cheeseburger in Paradise

Our friends showed up, and then we stayed busy going to a different beach each day. We went snorkeling, boogie-boarding, sun bathing and enjoyed time relaxing. They live in Alaska, so we enjoyed every moment getting to make new memories with them. We went shopping and ate out at some yummy restaurants. :) It is so nice having friends that even after not seeing each other in months it was right back to old times.

Silly boys.


Me surfing...I know little wave ;)

We had a wonderful week in Maui...spring break 2011.

* * New Things * *

2011-03-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

Time for a Bernard update....many NEW and EXCITING things going on in our lives... :)

I had my 24th birthday on February 22, and it was a week long celebration, which I was fine with. We got to spend time with both sides of our family. I felt very loved that's for sure. Julie made me a quilt, which you can see I love. :)


My new quilt, made by Jason's mom.

Kinsey, Me and Mom at Mo's

I also got to go on the woman's retreat this year with Salem Heights church. There were over 250 women on the retreat, which was amazing. This year was especially fun since my sister was able to come. I also stayed in a room with four other girls, and we had an adjoining room that had another four. :) It was so refreshing to get to spend the weekend learning about forgiveness, healing and resting in God's plan. That is something that I need to remember constantly.

Me, Kinsey, Jincy, Stephanie, Natalie, Michelle and Caley

Me and Elle

Shopping!!!

God's amazing creation.

Next...Jason has a full-time teaching job to the end of the school year!! He is teaching special education at Waldo Middle School. It is the job that he was a long term substitute teacher in since the middle of January, and it finally became a full-time teaching job. :) Although Salem-Keizer can't hire permanent teachers until this summer...what with so many budget cuts...we are hoping this could open up doors for him next year! :) Here he is in his classroom...and the bulletin board that he and I made last week to track his student's progress. :) I am so proud of him!

Mr. Bernard's classroom.

Iditarod behavior tracking board...I was pretty impressed.

Auntie and Uncle and our little niece!

And....Jason and I can now also be called an UNCLE and AUNT! Bryan (Jason's brother) and Charissa had their first baby girl, Cayden Elizabeth Ann Bernard. :) She is VERY loved that is for sure, and such a sweet little baby. I am SO thankful that we didn't choose to move far away...this is exactly what we didn't want to miss. :)

Sweet baby girl!

Little angel that we WILL spoil ;)

Next...we are looking forward to our spring vacation to MAUI!!! We leave this coming Friday to drive up to Seattle and fly out from there! Update and many pictures from that trip to come soon. :)

CAUSE Winter Retreat 2011

2011-02-21T18:20:00.000-08:00

One-Purpose: God's Glory

That statement was the teaching point of the middle school winter retreat this last weekend at Camp Tapawingo. It was an amazing weekend filled with laughter, games, staying up late and learning from God's word. It was refreshing to spend time with so many mid-high girls....I don't remember laughing that much in a long time. :)

We drove up to the camp Friday afternoon, and got right to having some fun. We played a Mission Impossible game the first night...where Ashley Higgins and I got a little loopy hiding from the students in the dark by the fire pit...some dancing around the fire was in order. :) One of our girls, Emily, came bursting out of the bushes at one point and...well the picture of both her legs tells the story better than I could...I do recall "someone" telling her shorts may not be the best choice for night games... :)


Emily's Hurt Legs

Saturday was filled up with teaching times, hiking down to the river and many games of dodge-ball (Ga-Ga ball). It was so much fun to watch Jason connecting with the guys in his small group. He had some guys following him around the whole time. :) I think a couple of them are a little addicted to disc golf now too. :) The conversations and the friendships that were created this weekend were so neat to participate in and watch grow. God was doing some powerful things through these students.

Me and Sara

Sophie, Ashleigh, Sara and Emily

In the afternoon on Saturday Jason organized a game of human clue where the leaders dressed up as different characters and the students had to figure out who did the crime, where and with what. It was so much fun! Jason and I were teachers...a stretch I know ;) We made the kids do jumping jacks (P.E.) and read (first grade) in order to ask their questions. Turns out...Jason and I were the criminals! :)

Human Clue: The "Teachers"

JUMP!

Savannah and Me

I loved getting to spend time getting to know my girls. Middle school is such an interesting time in a girls life. They are struggling to figure out who they really are, and where they fit in. I am so thankful that God meets each of them exactly where they are, and that He loves them where they are at. Each of them holds a special place in my heart...I pray that we would all place God as our one purpose...what an amazing weekend!

2 Corinthians 12:8-10

2011-02-06T12:11:00.000-08:00

Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this [trial], that it should leave me.

But, he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness,

so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with

weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.

For when I am weak, then I am strong.

I thank the Lord that I can rest in His grace and His plan, and that when I go through trails, and the people around me go through hardships that He is in control. I will be honest and admit that I do struggle with wondering why God does not take certain afflictions and hurt away, but I also know that He works ALL things through for His glory and for His plan. I know that I may never know the full extent for why He allows specific trials to cross my path, but I am resting in the fact that when I am walking through those trials, I am not walking in them alone.

Jesus overcame the ultimate trail, when He was crucified on the cross for me; a fact that is so easy to ignore and forget. He overcame the grave and rose, so that I would not have to have sorrow and pain, but that I could come to Him and allow Him to fill my heart and heal me. He is the rock that I can stand upon; a rock that is stronger than a job, stronger than relationships, stronger than me.

That section of verses really impacted me...to feel strong in weakness....when I am feeling weak the last thing that I am feeling is strong, and yet I realize that when I am feeling so weak, it is when I need Him and seek Him the most. It is so "easy" to think that I have it all in 'control,' and that I can make it on my own, but the truth is God is waiting for me to turn to Him and lean on His power, grace and love.

From now on I choose to let His strength get me through, not my own, "For when I am weak, then I am STRONG."

I will leave you with this video of one of my favorite songs, I Will Rise, by Chris Tomlin:

New Stage

2011-01-12T15:42:00.000-08:00

I am officially a teacher at Claggett Creek Middle School! The position that I got in November was extended until the end of the year. I have been hired as an employee of the district, which is great because hopefully that will mean that I will have a position in the coming school year. I just had my last day as a barista at Starbucks last Saturday. It was a bittersweet thing leaving, but it was something that I am grateful to close as a chapter in my life. It was a great job, and I learned a lot, but making coffee doesn't fulfill me like impacting and changing lives like teaching does. As of right now though, I am so thankful for the job that I was given, and look forward to the coming year with the students that I have in my classroom.

Christmas Morning 2010

Jason just started his master's in special education at Portland State University. He is taking two classes for the next two terms (one in Portland, one online). This summer he will be going to school closer to full-time up in Portland, then it is just two more terms and he will have his endorsement. I am so proud of him for going back and re-starting and re-focusing on something that he may have never seen coming. I am so thankful for his hard work, and the desire that he has to take care of his family. I know that if he becomes a special ed teacher, or a regular classroom teacher, he will make a huge positive impact on the kids that will be lucky enough to have a him as their teacher.

Other than my new job, and Jason going back to school we have been staying busy. We got to spend a lot of time with friends and family, and with the new direction in both our lives it looks like we will get to do that more often now.

Last Look at Christmas 2010 :)

That's all for now :)

Thanks for Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T20:39:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was so much fun this year. I know that we always have had lots to be thankful for, but this year I was feeling extra thankful. Here are some of the things:

First SNOW of the season!

Family and Friends
Contentment
Teaching jobs (both temporary and subbing)
Jason's acceptance into PSU's special education program

This last year has been one where we learned a lot and grew as a couple. Although nothing is ever for sure, and jobs as we have realized are fleeting, I am so thankful for the family and friends that God knew we would need to help get us though.

Christmas is here :)

We got to spend thanksgiving with both our families again this year, but it didn't feel as stressful as in years past. We spent the early afternoon with my mom's side at my aunt and uncle's house. It was so good to catch up and spend time with a group of people that make me laugh so much. Kinsey and her roommate (Maddie) came down as well...always love the times I get to spend with Kinz :)

Sister shot: Aunt Pat, Aunt Susie, Mom and Aunt Pat

Roomies: Kinsey and Maddie

Me and my Dad

Then we went to Jason's side of the family Christmas at his parent's house. Thankfully this year we didn't have to eat to meals...we have done that the last two years....I think my stomach thanked me at the end of the day :) We played games and relaxed as the turkey took effect.

Sisters

Nial and Kinsey

We got to go to the Singing Christmas Tree up in Portland again this year. :) Even though it is almost the same each year, I still love it, and it seems to help the Christmas season start off right. Then we went to the Spaghetti Factory (yum!). It was a much needed and amazing break.

As of right now I have three more weeks of work at Claggett. The principal told me over conferences that she doesn't expect the past teacher to come back...I'm trying not to get my hopes up, but it has been amazing to have my own group of students and get to watch them learn and grow. We will see what happens, but for now I am thankful for what I have.

Spending some time with the person I am so thankful for.

Catch a ride on the Christmas Train!

The Girls

Jason found out right after Thanksgiving that he was officially accepted at Portland State for the special education program. He will start this coming January, and be completed the following March as far as we understand. He will be taking classes once a week either in Portland or online up until the summer. When summer comes he will once again be a full-time student...not sure he is super excited about that :) He is excited to start the program and feel like he is heading somewhere...although it is a path we did not foresee, I know he is going to do amazing.

Happy Thanksgiving...now let's celebrate CHRISTMAS!!! :)

New JOB!!!

2010-11-09T21:49:00.000-08:00

I have a new job! I was officially hired last week, and today was my third day of teaching at Claggett Creek Middle School in Keizer. I am so thankful for this opportunity, and although the last week has been crazy busy, and everyday comes with new challenges, I am so thankful. I am hired at this point up to winter break, with the possibility that the job could be extended to the end of the school year. Only time will tell, but for right now, I am a TEACHER :).

Here is a picture of the school...if you look to the third story on the top far right side, that is my classroom. :) I have been working during my prep and before and after-school getting the classroom to feel like my own. The teacher that was in there left a little over a month ago, so the room was in chaos to say the least. I was told to box up and remove anything that I wanted, and to think of the room as my own...so I have been, which I love :) I redid the bulletin boards today (I put some pictures of my classroom below), and plan on organizing some more. The learning curve has been pretty steep...conferences are in less than two weeks, so I have been attempting to get some grades for the students...it's a lot of work, but it is so comforting to know that I will be there tomorrow, and the day after, and the day after...

Board all about me :)

Room 300

Jason is also getting started on his new journey...this Wednesday he has his interview at Portland State University for the Special Education program. If he gets in, he will start classes in January, and will complete the program the following summer. It is a program designed for teachers that are working already to add the endorsement. When he is done with the program he will only need a few more credit hours to complete his master's.

So excited to get out on the ice!

Serious.

Jason and I have also been busy helping out with the middle school youth group at our church this year. We are working with students that go to Judson and Walker. I am diffidently getting my fill of middle school :) We call the small groups D-Teams ) devotional teams. My D-Team got to go to the pumpkin patch together. They crack me up, and have such amazing hearts that desire to please and serve. We also went "Broom-Balling" with the mid-high up in Portland on the ice! That was a lot of fun...I was shocked that I didn't fall the whole time :)

Not serious.

Judson/Walker D-Team

Cuddle time :)

Needless to say, we are so thankful for where we are, and are looking forward to what is going to come in the future. :)

Extreme Home Makeover

2010-09-26T20:28:00.000-07:00

Well, it back to subbing for Jason and I, and we have been busy already this year with sub jobs. Last year we only got about one sub job each in the month of September, and already I've had three (one more already scheduled), and Jason has had five (two more scheduled). That is a blessing considering we have not been able to save any of the money we have made lately working our part-time jobs. Although we were anticipating, and hoping this year was going to be drastically different with job (full-time teaching jobs) we are thankful for what we do have and the tentative plan for our near future.

In January Jason will be starting classes to gain his special education teaching endorsement that will eventually turn into a master's degree in special education. He will be going to school part-time at Portland State. He is excited about what's to come; and teaching special education is something that I know he will excel at. God has gifted him in the areas of patience and flexibility...very important and essential for teaching in that specific area. Although it will take him a little over a year to gain the endorsement, he will only be a few classes shy of gaining his master's degree when the program ends. Getting his master's done this soon was not originally on our radar, but it is exciting to think that he will have that done and out of the way before we have kids and our lives get even busier.

Recently I was able to help out at the Extreme Home Makeover that took place at the Deaf School here in Salem. I took sign language in high school and so I took trips with my class to the school before the make-over. I also went through the haunted house with friends a few years ago before the total re-do....I must say I was scared walking through the haunted house when the lights were on! It was so much fun working out there with my dad and the other hundreds of local people that took time out of their own lives to impact the lives of others. It was neat to look around at midnight and see all the smiling hard-working people. It was one of the most amazing and humbling experiences I have had.

Just a glimpse of the haunted house....amazing all that they can do in a week!

My dad and me :)

Jason has also been playing on a softball team with some of his college friends and his dad, my dad and his friend's dad. They have been playing softball pretty consistently since April...lots of games. Recently they had a tournament up in Washington....they ended up doing pretty well, and seemed satisfied with their result. It always amazes me how caught up in a game I will get...they can get pretty "intense"... :)

Tired out after a lot of softball games :)

Here Comes Fall

2010-09-06T19:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that it is fall already! I really don't know where summer went. Lately Jason and I have been spending a lot of time with our friends and family, which is much needed. :) We are so thankful for the support and group of people that we have surrounded ourselves with. This is me with some of my best friends, Darcy and Lizzie. I have known them both since kindergarten and first grade :) So thankful.We are going to need all that support as we embark on yet another year of substitute teaching. I will be working at Starbucks again, but will be leaving Wednesday through Friday open for subbing (we get benefits through Sbux so I'll be there at least 20 hours a week). Jason will be full-time subbing this fall. Starting in January he will be starting a program at Portland State to get his special education teaching endorsement. All the classes will eventually transfer to a master's degree...but for now we are going to work towards him getting another certification and area that he can teach in. We are working hard at being content with where we are at. We were hoping and praying that this year would be different for us, but here we go again...We went to the fair this year. It is always fun to watch the shows and people watch...there are a lot of interesting people at the fair (that's a understatement). We watched the acrobats and the hypnotist. We also got to pet some pretty cute little animals:)We have also been enjoying the funny antics of our sweet little kittens...here is a video of them "helping" me make the bed...

Tohoe 2010

2010-08-17T18:57:00.001-07:00

We got back a few weeks ago from the annual Tahoe camping trip with Jason's mom's side of the family. It was a lot of fun this year, and the weather was perfect everyday. We drove down, and had NO car trouble ;) Those of you that know Jason and my past with car trips know that is an amazing feat. We went to the lake everyday, relaxed, made smores, played disc golf, mini-golfed and played games. It was a wonderful week, and a much needed and appreciated vacation.
Below is a picture of a cliff...somehow I was convinced to jump off of it. I sat hunched on the edge of the cliff while everyone else went at least once. There was a seven year old girl who went seven times before I got up the guts to even stand up on the edge...haha. You know a cliff is higher than you expected when you have time to complete full thoughts as you plummet towards the water. :)We also went to a baseball game for Bryce's 50th birthday while we were down there. It was so much fun even though I didn't know anyone who was playing ;) There is something about being in a huge stadium with tons of screaming fans that makes you cheer too.

San Juan Camping

2010-07-02T18:53:00.002-07:00

We had our first official camping trip just the two of us. :) It was a trip that's for sure...
It all started off with us driving up to take the ferry to the San Juan Islands in Washington. It all started off perfectly. We got on the road around 8:30am and made our way in good time. Suddenly...about 45 minutes from the ferry we were trying to catch when our car lurched on the freeway. We pulled off at a family owned car shop and they let us know there was something wrong with our transmission... So...we drove to the nearest Ford dealership where they informed us that a part of our transmission was broken and needed to be fixed immediately. The only problem was that that part was back down in Portland and wouldn't be able to be fixed until Tuesday (that would be the end of our vacation). Needless to say Jason and my spirits were crushed. We didn't think we were going to make it to the San Juans. Thankfully they informed us that we could leave our car with them until it could be fixed, and that it would be paid for under warranty. :) We then rented a car and made it to the ferry that left at 8:30pm!!We set our tent up in the dark and 10:30pm and slept so good that night...
The rest of our trip was amazing! :) We camped on Orcas Island, but we also spent time exploring Friday Harbor and Lopez Island. We went on a hike on Orcas Island to a beautiful forested waterfall:We spent lots of relaxing time around the campfire...getting to talk about life, dream about the future and have so many laughs. There is something about being in the outdoors that makes you just relax and be completely yourself; and what better person to do that with than your husband. :)We went to Friday Harbor one day and explored the many shops and looked at the countless boats docked at the harbor...Then we played some disc golf...pretty sure that was Jason's favorite part of the whole trip ;) He is pretty talented I must say...I was his disc spotter...much needed considering half the holes were in the woods:It was the perfect vacation with my best friend/husband :) So many great talks and funny memories. San Juan Vacation...check! :)

"You are still only subbing?"

2010-06-05T08:16:00.000-07:00

Well, the school year is almost done, and we are still in the same spot when it comes to teaching jobs for the future. With school district's budgets being stretched there has been a freeze put on the overall hiring process. Jason is doing a lot better at being open minded about our situation...it is hard still waiting. I know that God has great things planned for us, but it sure is hard waiting to see what those things are.

Lately I've been asked this question over and over, "You are still only subbing?" Let me be honest here for a second...there are two words in that short question that have me wondering. First off, 'still.' It is diffidently not our first choice to be substitute teaching. But, it is a job where we get to use the degrees that we went to four plus years of school for. It is one of the least appreciated and challenging jobs I have ever done. You can't be nice it seems or the students walk all over you. So, no we are not 'still' subbing, we are subbing.

Secondly, comes the word 'only.' Again this goes back to the idea that we are choosing to sub rather than have our own classroom (completely untrue). Jason actually had someone ask him if he was taking it "easy," and "just subbing." The reality is, that even though the 'experts' promise more jobs, with each job we apply anywhere from 100-400 other people also applying. In fact this year it has been rumored that many principals won't even get a choice in who they hire; districts will simply move teachers around instead of hiring new. Also, we are not 'only' subbing. We each have had multiple weeks where we work over 50 or 60 hours...I try not to think about the amount of work we are working versus the monetary gain we are able to make.

I am so thankful for my strong, level headed husband, that does not let life's curve-balls strike him down. When I am feeling discouraged he is right there to point me back to the Word, and the promises that Christ made to me, that ALL things will work together for good. I realize that I need to stop waiting for the good and notice the good all around me.

Just a few of the things I am thankful for:

P90X

2010-05-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't know if many of you have heard of P90X, but it is a at home workout program that promises to get you into shape in 90 days. Jason and I just completed our first week of working out on it last night....and I LOVE it! Each workout is about an hour long, and when you get done you are tired, pumped and sweaty! That's how I know it is working. Each morning after working out a new muscle is sore, but again that lets me know that I am working hard. I can already tell a physical difference just after the first six days. It's fun too because Jason and I get to do it together. There was one time last week where we were both laughing so hard during the workout because we knew we looked ridiculous trying. I wouldn't want to do it with anyone else. :) I will keep you posted with our updates as we continue on in our second week of P90X.

Other than that we have been keeping ourselves VERY busy subbing...almost too busy working if you ask me. Jason was a P.E. teacher for three weeks while the teacher was out with his new baby. Jason loved it, and I know it was hard for him to go back to teaching in the classroom. My dad was very helpful when it came to giving Jason advice about teaching P.E....he's been doing it for 30 years so we figured he had some good ideas :) I on the other hand, have been doing the majority of my subbing at Wright Elementary, the same school my dad teaches at. Last week I had 60 hours of work in total between my subbing and Sbuxing...same thing this week. When is summer?

Fetching Cat?

2010-03-17T22:18:00.000-07:00

We are very proud of the talents of our children...

There you have it...a pretty amazing kitty. :)

Enjoying the Last of Winter

2010-03-11T16:49:00.000-08:00

Well, first off it is important to say that Jason and I decided not to go to Indonesia to teach. There were a lot of reasons...some being that for going somewhere for two years, we didn't feel excited about the idea. We also prayed a lot about it for the two weeks leading up to our decision. Once we let them know it felt so good, and we knew that we had made the right decision.
We had a great Valentine's Day, and I got to celebrate my birthday for a few days in a row. Jason got me some beautiful roses (shown above :) We went to Sunriver with my family over Valentine's Day. I am 23 now...time sure goes by fast... ;)

Besides that, we have both been subbing a lot all throughout Salem and Jefferson. We are both done with our 3-week (each) student teaching, so we are very close to getting our elementary endorsements. That should help us in the job market this upcoming year since we will both be able to apply for all elementary jobs plus Jason in history (middle and high), and language arts (middle and high) for me. I know we both don't want to have to go through another year where we are both working two jobs each and never having time to do anything but work. This week I am pushing 60 hours between my two jobs. Don't get me wrong, we are VERY thankful for the jobs that we have, but to focus on one job, and be teaching, which is what we both want to be doing, would be ideal.Last weekend I got to go on the annual woman's retreat with Salem Heights Church. It was AWESOME!! I needed the break, and got to spend so much "girl" time with the other young ladies at church. It was so much fun to go shopping, go out to eat and stay up late talking. I am so excited about the friendships that were begun, and the ones that grew a ton over that weekend! I have been praying for more girlfriends, and what's crazy is that talking last weekend we were all praying the same thing! Jason and I have been hanging out with so many young married couples, and it is awesome. We are all at around the same place in life, so we share funny stories and are hopefully creating lasting friendships :)
I will leave you with a funny quote from one of my kindergarten boys:

"I put some smelly stuff on today. I wanted to be handsome."

Winter

2010-02-02T16:39:00.000-08:00

Well, it is about time that I post again...
First off Jason and I have a HUGE decision coming up soon with what we are going to be doing for the next couple years...Last Thursday we were offered two teaching job in Indonesia at the school Sekolah Pelita Harapan (http://www.sph.edu/). We have some time to think about what our final decision will be...but it does feel good to be wanted. :)Jason was offered a 7th and 8th grade humanities (History and English) position, and I was offered a 9th and 10th grade language arts position. We would be teaching at the school that is approximately 30 miles from Jakarta, Indonesia. It is a world-class Christian education facility, that offers education to Indonesian and expatriate children. The upper levels are taught using the I.B. curriculum. The term that we would be teaching there, would be for two years...which is where our thinking is getting stopped. It would be a wonderful experience, both personally and professionally. We have been praying and talking a lot about what we will end up doing, and we will keep everyone updated on what we finally decide.

Other than making that decision, Jason and I have been staying busy. We are both back in school so we can get our elementary teaching endorsements. We completed two graduate classes online in three weeks, and have one more class we are taking out at Corban. I am just finishing up my student teaching out at Faye Wright this week, and then Jason will start out there for the following 3-weeks starting next Monday. It has been a lot of fun getting to be there to see my dad everyday...but I remember why I don't like student teaching...lots of learning, but you are doing all the work for free...hopefully it will end up paying off in the end though. :)

We are also in a young marrieds small group through church. It has been so much fun getting to know so many other young married couples, and getting together with them outside of our group time. This Thursday we are going bowling with the group, so that should be really fun!

Well, that's all for now...please be praying for us as we make our decisions coming up here in the next couple of weeks. I know that God will take care of us no matter what, but I know we are anxious to start planning the next stage in our lives...whatever that may be :)

Merry Christmas

2009-12-11T15:42:00.000-08:00

I know the title says "Merry Christmas," but I haven't written since before Thanksgiving. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving once again this year. We were able to split our time between both of our families, and had very full bellies by the end of the day! We have so much to be thankful for: marriage, family, our four jobs (two each), our home, our freedom and our Savior. We may not have a lot, but what we do have, I know we would never want to trade in for anything.

We went to the Singing Christmas Tree this year with my family, Grandma Betty, Grandma's friends and Kinsey's roommate Cara. It was different than years past which was nice since we go every year. That is one tradition that I don't ever want to give up...it's a great way to transition into the Christmas holiday!

Black Friday I got to sleep in a little bit since I didn't have to be at Starbucks until 8:00am. I was surprised how much fun the day was, and although we were busy the whole eight hours I worked that day, it went smoothly. The customers were awesome, and so patient and kind while we rushed around making their drinks. Since that day my store has been busy no matter what day it is. It's fun that's for sure, but by the end of the shift I am just exhausted.

Speaking of working...Jason and I have been keeping busy with subbing and our other part-time jobs. This week and last week we each worked everyday, so last Thursday and this Friday we took the days off to spend some much needed time together. This week alone with my two jobs, I will have worked over 60 hours...so looking forward to the day when we each have ONE job each, and get to slow down somewhat.

Jason and I are enjoying every moment of this Christmas! We both love this time of the year, with all the traditions and fun memories that we get to make. This is the first Christmas we have with Calli and Hobbes, and so far they are "loving" the Christmas tree. :) We went out early in the morning last Saturday to select the perfect tree. When we first brought it home they were afraid of it, then it was a holder for new "toys" for them...which were our ornaments. Needless to say it took a couple of days for them to get used to the new decoration in our home. We are awaiting the snow that the weather stations are saying should hit sometime in the next 4-5 hours...I LOVE snow, so that would be very exciting. It has been so cold here...mornings of 11 degrees...we have been bundling up a lot around our house. :) Keep enjoying the season, and remember the true meaning:

It's not the gifts, it's not the time spent with friends and family...those are wonderful, but the true meaning is Christ's birth...He is the reason for the season.

Future Plans...and Present Life

2009-11-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how busy this year is, and how fast it is going by! It's hard to imagine, although I am excited about the fact, that Christmas is just next month. I love this time of the year, and have officially started listening to Christmas music...which those that know me, know that starting this "late" is saying a lot :)

Jason and I are both subbing in the Salem-Keizer School District and the surrounding smaller districts. We have been getting requested at the same schools over and over, which is nice because we are getting to know the students. Jason has been fortunate enough to get a long term sub position at Hammond Elementary, where he is teaching 4th grade. Speaking of elementary school...this coming spring semester, I am going to begin taking classes to get my elementary endorsement. I never thought I would be teaching elementary, but since I have gotten to sub a lot at that level, I have grown to love it! I need to take three classes at the graduate level, write a work sample, and do a student teaching. I applied, and now am just waiting on the financial aide. Applying...that is something that both Jason and I are both getting pretty good at. We recently sent off our applications to the school in Indonesia, Sekolan Pelita Harapan (http://www.sph.edu/). Right now we are just waiting to hear back from the school to see if they have placements for both of us. The school is currently contacting the people on our reference lists we supplied them. Right now is hard though, since we are in a limbo of not knowing. We can't plan for the future, but at the same time it's hard to stop your brain from going to what might happen. We are praying a lot about what to do, and where we should go, but at this point we are both feeling good about the option of Indonesia. At the same time we are open to the possibility that there may not be a position for us...only time will tell, but we will keep you updated. :) The school that is located right outside of Jakarta is shown above. There is also a brand new school that is in Jakarta that will be opening up this coming school year that we could also be placed at.Even with our busy schedules, we have been working hard at making time for each other. Last Friday we had a whole "date day," where we woke up, after sleeping in :), got coffee and headed up to Portland for the day. We got to go to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner off a gift card my parents gave us, then we headed to the Blazer game. They won, and it was an exciting game! We were one row from the TOP of the whole stadium, but even sitting up that high we had an awesome time, I don't think there are any really bad seats. It was a great day!Our little kittens are awesome as well! They seem to get more and more sweet if that is even possible. When I am with them it is hard to believe that I was ever scared of cats. They have diffidently become part of the Bernard family. Oh, by the way Calli (shown below) loves water...

Fall is Here!

2009-10-11T19:20:00.001-07:00

Jason and I are keeping busy subbing in many schools ranging from elementary to high school. Every job we get it sorta feels like we won the lottery or something since there are not many subs getting called from what we hear. Thankfully my parents have gotten our sub numbers out to many of the people they know, and we have landed some good jobs. Coming up in the next couple of weeks Jason will be the sub at Hammond Elementary where his aunt Rhonda also teaches. He will be there for 7 days...we are excited about that!! This coming week I will be subbing for my mom, which should go pretty good...hope I do a good job mom ;)
Speaking of teaching...Jason and I are currently in the process of applying to teach overseas at a school that Corban College partners with in.... INDONESIA! We are praying a lot about it, but with the lack of jobs for teachers here in Oregon, and the fact that we're only young teachers once...it's looking like we may be going. We still need to go through the whole applying process, but we are excited about the possibility. The school, Sekolah Pelita Harapan, is just outside Jakarta, Indonesia. We would have a paid salary, living allowance, paid housing, paid medical insurance, etc. One bonus we just heard about was that they will sponsor you financially if you want to get your master's while you are there...that was a pleasant surprise. The school has a 9:1 student to teacher ratio, and offers so many different things for the students to experience. There is an Olympic size swimming pool, family pool, 6 tennis courts, two indoor basketball courts, etc. I will tell you all more about this opportunity while we find out more about it too. I will try to include some pictures of the school soon...it's a pretty amazing school from what we have read and seen pictures of.

Jason and I have finally replaced his junker car!!! The old red neon was replaced by a maroon 2007 Ford Focus. We love it! It's so nice to have a car that you can count on to get you where you need to go! Now we just have the Jeep to keep working on...sadly the check engine light came on yesterday...o' car troubles. :)

That's all for now...but we are so thankful for the jobs that we have been given, and are excited to see where God will be taking us in the next few months :)

Starbucks

2009-08-19T17:48:00.000-07:00

As of tomorrow I will officially have my ONE year anniversary at Starbucks...knowing that sure makes me feel like the year has gone by way too fast! Who would have thought that after I graduated from college...I would not be able to even get more than one interview in my job field, but would be continuing on in my carrier as a barista :) I must say though, that I am so thankful for my job, and love all the wonderful people I get to work with and serve coffee too :) Here is to another year? Here is to the future :)

As Summer Comes to an End...

2009-08-13T11:39:00.001-07:00

It is so hard to believe that summer is almost over! The thought that has set in even more lately, is the fact that Jason and I will not be going back to school as the student, but as the teacher. No news yet on any possible teaching jobs...we are officially signed up to substitute in the Salem-Keizer School District, and are in the process of applying to other districts. There are few teaching jobs opening up, and from what I hear over 150 applicants per job posting. I did just apply to two more openings today, so who knows what the future will hold there. :)

Jason and I just got back from Tahoe for a family reunion for his mom's side of the family. I have never been there, and it was beautiful! I could tell his family was so excited to show me around the place that they all love visiting. Tahoe reminded me of a mix of Sunriver and the Metolius. We got to camp in our tent for the first official time, which was a lot of fun! One of the nights we were there Jason and I were awoke by a black bear...I actually saw it walk by our tent, and we could hear it breathing only feet from us! It was a great trip!

Then just this last weekend we were able to go to the beach with my family for the night, and stay in a yurt. It was a great getaway, and the weather was beautiful. It was over 70 degrees...something that doesn't happen all that much on the Oregon Coast.

Jason will be in his second wedding this summer this coming weekend. Two of his roommates from Corban got married this summer, Matt and Erin and then John and Rachael. Matt and Erin got married here in Salem and this weekend John and Rachael are getting married outside of Eugene. I really do love weddings, and because of that I will begin training to take over the wedding coordinator position at Salem Heights in the next year. That was something that was unexpected, and that I am so excited about. :)

Until next time...

Bernard Family Reunion

2009-07-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

Well, I think that Jason and I have settled into the summer lifestyle. It is so nice to not have to student teach, go to school, work and try to make time for each other. Now we are just working, and get to have plenty of time together, which we love. :) We just got back from a family reunion with Jason's dad's side of the family. We went to Newport and stayed in a house with 25 of his uncles, aunts, grandparents and cousins. I met new family members that I hadn't met yet so it was fun to get to meet them. Jason's grandparents just recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, so the reunion was also a celebration for them.

On the fourth of July we had our own family celebration at the house, which turned out to be a good thing since the fireworks were cancelled at the harbor at Newport due to foggy weather. Even though that night was foggy, while we were there we had amazing weather. The first day was over 70 degrees on the beach! I even got sunburned...I can't remember the last time that happened to me being on the Oregon beach.

We are going to be working the next couple of weeks, and then we are going to Lake Tahoe to a family reunion for Jason's mom's side of the family. This is something that side of the family does every year, and since Jason has been working every summer since college, this will be the first time he will be able to go in years so he is really excited. It will be fun since we will be tent camping, and will get to use our tent for the first time. :)

Calli and Hobbes (our little kittens) are doing really good. They love to cuddle, and Hobbes is actually asleep on my lap right now while I am writing this. This coming Friday they are both going to get fixed, so hopefully that will all go smoothly and they will let each other rest and heal.

All in all, our summer is going really good. We are working hard, but we are also making time to enjoy our time together and spend a lot of time with family and friends. I LOVE summer time...

Graduation...Camping...and Kittens

2009-06-08T20:23:00.001-07:00

Well...since I last wrote Jason and I have been very busy, but it has been a good kind of busy. We are both officially college graduates, and are looking forward to what this next part of our lives is going to look like. Currently we do not have any clear leads as to possible job openings, but we are sending out some resumes along with the applications to the few places we have found that know that they are going to be hiring for this next year. With the economy and how caught up many people have become with money, we are counting ourselves blessed and lucky considering that we both have jobs, even if they are part time. My job at Starbucks gets both of us great health care benefits, which thankfully we haven't had to use at all during the first year of our marriage. I really do hope that no matter where and what we end up doing in our lives that money will not be what our lives revolve around. There is so much more to life that we want to experience.

After graduation we got to have one last fun time with our best friends, Jordan and Katrina, before they moved up to Anchorage, AK. Katrina is from there, so we are really happy that they were able to go back and spend time with family, and from talking with her on the phone and sending letters, it is clear to me that they are really happy and content for the time being up there...but we still really miss them. Before they left though, we went yurting up at Beverly Beach for a couple nights. The first day was beautiful, and the boys even got a little sunburned. The second day was typical beach weather, very rainy and stormy. It was so much fun to create even more memories with them, and we know there will be many more.

We have now also been married for ONE year! We laugh at that since we have actually be dating for almost seven year total, so starting the count again is a little sad. We had a wonderful anniversary though. We drove up to Seattle and went to a Mariner game...some of you may have seen up on TV on FSN during the game. We sat in the Hit it Here Cafe for the whole game, which was a lot of fun. The food was great, and it was a great view of the game even if they lost. It was nice to get away after our busy year and see all that we did and made it though. This was a wonderful first year of marriage, but it sure was busy!

Here are some updated pictures of our kittens, "Calli" and "Hobbes." We found out when we took them to the vet that Calvin was not a boy so we changed her name to fit her a little better :) Calli is the black one, and Hobbes is the orange/blonde one. :) We love them a lot! Jason actually built that the cat tree, which they love to climb all over :)

Calvin and Hobbes

2009-05-05T21:47:00.002-07:00

Here are the newest additions to our family....meet Calvin (Black) and Hobbes (Organge) :)

Final Countdown

2009-04-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

This last couple weeks have seemed to fly by. Maybe that's because I am so excited and ready for graduation to get here. Jason and I are both working on getting all our requirements done to finish our student teaching. I am officially done with my teaching, but still have two more weeks that I will be showing up to observe and finish out. Jason has this next week left of his teaching. I know we are both ready to move on...who knows where we will be...we have been applying, but as of yet there is no word on where or what we will be doing this next year.

This last week we had to do a hard thing...our kitty, Mozzarella, is no longer with us...he was not doing good. In two days he had at least 10 seizures and stopped eating and drinking. We knew it was the right thing to do, but it was so hard. It amazes me that this little guy could come into our lives so suddenly and make us really love and care about him. He was a great little kitty, and I know both Jason and I miss him...I never would have thought I would love a cat, but I do.

Jason and I went to our senior banquet last week, where Jason introduced his dad as a speaker. It seems like just yesterday we were graduating from high school. College has been such a great experience, and I know I have learned so much about myself. I can't wait to see where God has our lives going. It just feels so good to have so many open opportunities, and to know that wherever we go we will be together. Graduation is May 2nd...so close!

Busy Time of Life!

2009-03-18T23:03:00.001-07:00

** Jason and I have been SO BUSY!! **We are currently working through our second authorization student teaching. I am at Jefferson High School and Jason is at Stayton Middle School. We only have about four weeks left of student teaching, and then we are graduating! It has been just a whirlwind experience for both of us. I know that I have learned so much from my experiences teaching at both Parrish and Jefferson. Jason is pretty sure he wants to teach at the high school level, but I think I would be fine teaching at either level. The countdown to the end of the school year is here...May 2nd is graduation day, and it couldn't come soon enough.Jason took me to "Wicked," the Broadway play a couple of weeks ago for my birthday. It was amazing! It was so much fun getting to watch such talented people sing and sing so powerfully. That was something everyone should go and see!
We also took a day trip to Eugene. It was so much fun to go back to all the places we went on dates during our freshmen year when I went to the University of Oregon. Although it has been hard not getting to see each other very much, we have been trying our hardest to make the time we do have together the best that we can. With spring break coming up this next week, we are both looking forward to spending more time together.

I also celebrated my 22nd birthday since I last wrote. Since Jason was working on my actual birthday, my parents and Kinsey took me out to Claim Jumper for dinner. It was so nice to get to spend time with them, and celebrate. My mom and dad also had the Bernard's over to their house for birthday dessert. I love my family! Happy Birthday!

Jason is so happy to have a little kitty in our home...I am still not set on the idea...a cat in an apartment....Mozzarella is still doing good, not gaining any weight, but he is a sweet and loving cat, so I guess I don't have much to complain about. :)

Christmas...

2009-01-22T20:55:00.001-08:00

Christmas was so good this year...we got to spend time with family...got to set up Jason's Christmas Village in our own place for the first time...got to be the Bernard's for the first time ever...got to see Jason's suprised face when he opened the HDTV I got him for Christmas :)...got to see what "Santa" got us for the first time as a married couple...but most importantly, we got to celebrate God's gift of His son to us...that is what Christmas is truely about...all the rest were just little blessings along the way.

Student Teaching

2009-01-06T11:09:00.000-08:00

Well...Jason and I have begun our official student teaching. Yesterday (Monday) was our first official day, and for the most part I think we both enjoyed ourselves. I am at Parish Middle School, and will be teaching five classes. One is a writing class, two are reading classes and the final two are basic Language Arts classes. The first three are pretty low level, but I think it will be a good learning experience. Jason is out at Silverton High School. He will be teaching American history and a couple other history courses too. I think the only thing he doesn't like about his placement so far is the long drive...

Our Christmas was really fun...busy but fun...I will post some pictures from our time that day when I get home, since I am writing this on my lunch break. :) It was so nice to get to spend Christmas together for the first time as a married couple...I love spending time with his family, and I know he feels the same about mine...now that they are the same too...:) well back to observing...

Snowy Weather

2008-12-20T17:49:00.000-08:00

Well, Salem has been having some crazy winter weather the last couple of days! Jason and I both love the snow, so we are really enjoying this weather...it is really snowing hard right now. Thankfully we have a cozy apartment. We have been on Christmas break for a week now, so that has been nice. Next semester we have student teaching. I will be at Parrish Middle School teaching 6th and 7th graders, and Jason will be at Silverton High School teaching history. It is so crazy to think that we are almost done with college...one more semester to go! Here are some pictures of us over the past week :)

Getting Our First Christmas Tree

2008-12-07T22:43:00.000-08:00

Jason and I went out with my mom and dad to get our first Christmas tree for our apartment. :) Here was the process :)

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-12-07T22:24:00.000-08:00

Jason and I had a busy thanksgiving this year, going to two thanksgiving celebrations in one day...but it was so good to see our families. Here are some pictures from our first thanksgiving as a married couple. :)

SIX Month Anniversary and the Fall

2008-11-22T21:23:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it, but it is true, Jason and I have now been married for OVER 6 months! Our anniversary was on Monday this last week, and we were able to celebrate together. After school we drove to Bridgeport Village and ate at Claim Jumper...a great restaurant....it was so nice to get to spend some time together and get aways from Salem if even for only a little while. :) After dinner we walked around and looked at all the shops, and spent some time in Boarders just hanging out with each other. Bridgeport is like a little escape. It made me feel like we were in a small European town the way it is laid out and decorated. They even had some Christmas decorations up, which I loved :) I know that I have loved being married this last six months to Jason. It has been such an easy transition to being husband and wife, and I am just so blessed to get to wake up and call him my husband each morning. I look forward to many more anniversaries and milestones to come. :)

Jason has been pretty busy with all his ASB (Associated Student Body) work. This last week he helped coordinate the all school talent show...and played a little part in it himself :) The whole ASB did a dance together, which was pretty funny. Here are some pictures of Jason and his co-ASB members all decked out in their outfits.

Just an update...out cat is still doing well...he has diffidently made our house his home...

Our Newest Family Member: Mozzarella

2008-11-05T12:23:00.000-08:00

Well...I thought it was about time Jason and I introduced you to our newest family member....

He is a cat...a sickly one at that...haha....Jason was out on a pizza delivery, and the little guy jumped in his car and curled up on the seat....so long story short we are now his foster parents...the vet said he is over 10 years old, and that we are doing a "good thing" giving him a home. I have never been a cat person, but I must say the little guy is making me like him more and more. He is a very sweet cat...

Here is our family now, Jason, Lauren and Mozzarella

Here Motz is drinking out of the toilet...cat or dog??

Senior Year

2008-10-31T12:18:00.000-07:00

Well, this is it, our last year in school and first year of marriage. . .

So far, the year is flying by, and we are both staying pretty busy. . .

Jason is taking a lot of history classes and seems to be balancing his busy schedule. He is running cross country this year, and has his final meet in a week in Seattle. I am so proud of him for all the work that he has done with this sport. There were days this season where he would run over 16 miles during one practice! It will be so strange not watching him run anymore, but soon he will be coaching I am sure, so that will be fun to watch. He is still working at Garlic Jim's Pizza, and seems to still love his job.

I am loving this year too, and staying busy balancing work, school and being a newly wed. I am not taking to many classes, so I get a little more free time then Jason. I love my job at Starbucks. It has been a long time since I could say that about a job that I have had, but it is so fun, and it changes each day.

Both of us will be student teaching at one of the local schools this coming spring. I think that we are both a little excited, and of course nervous for the experience. But it does mean that we are one step closer to graduating this May. That is something I think we both are really looking forward to!

All in all, we are loving being married and setting up our home and new lives together. After dating for over six years, being married was a lot easier transition. It is so much fun to know that I get to go home and spend time with my best friend no matter what the rest of my day was filled with. It is so amazing that on November 17th we will have already been married for SIX months! Time sure does fly by fast!