Good-Bye JCC

Last Friday was my last day of work at the JCC. Due to financial and insurance reasons, I took a position at Discover Card.

I've taught at the JCC for almost two years. I grew to love the children in my class as my own. I developed great relationships with their parents and all of the wonderful and talented staff there.

It was a hard last day. My whole class gave me a big group hug, and during it I had tears streaming down my face. I will miss my co-teachers Pam, Anny, and Brandy so much. The Administrative team was so good to me, and I left on excellent terms. I will miss story-time, my favorite part of the day. I will also miss learning about the Jewish Culture and doing Shabbat every Friday morning.

It was my first day at Discover Card yesterday. It was definitely an adjustment starting work at 6:00 am. But, the upside of that is that I'm completely done with work by 2:00 in the afternoon with the whole day ahead of me! This will create some much needed study time. I will definitely miss the "family" style atmosphere of the J. Discover can't quite compare to that because they have over 5,000 employees, but I hope to make friends with the members of my team and recreate that family feeling.

I was sad to leave teaching because I want to eventually teach elementary school. With this new job I'll be able to pay my way through the rest of school and be able to live more comfortably. I guess doing what you love doesn't always pay the bills and I think I made the right choice.

I'm Thankful For...

My family has a wonderful Thanksgiving tradition. Every year we go around the table, and toast each other and say what we're thankful for. This is a wonderful tradition from my parents, and I hope to pass it down to my children someday.

I'd just like to share what I'm thankful for this year:

My family.

My dear friends, both far and near.

My health. I didn't have the best of health in 2008, but now I have it back and am so grateful.

My church community.

Children.

My education.

Nature.

A night out with friends, free from the stress of work and school.

Hummus

I've been doing a lot of cooking from my new Weight Watchers cookbook. I thought I'd take some of my favorite recipes and share them with you. I made a batch of Hummus and it's quite tasty. I pack it with carrot sticks and red bell pepper slices for my lunch. If you're following Weight Watchers like me, it's only 2 low points per serving!

1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas
1/2 cup plain fat-free yogurt
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, crushed
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

In a food processor or blender, puree all the ingredients until blended, but still a little chunky.

November Blog

It's been a long while since I last posted.

To update--Mason is doing remarkably well! He's finally HOME after spending 26 days at Primary Children's hospital. He is truly a miracle!! If anyone needs proof that miracles happen, then read Mason's story! Thanks all for your prayers and support.

Like the rest of the nation, I was glued to the tv on Election Night. My roommate and friend Crystal and I both cried as Obama gave his speech. We both feel so hopeful for our country.

Things are going well in my life. I have crazy busy 14 hour days Monday-Thursday so that's why I haven't blogged in a while.

I plan on blogging at least once a week. I've been doing some healthy cooking, and will post some recipes for you to try.

Prayers Needed!

I just learned today that my cousin Roger's little 11 year old son Mason was hit by a car last night. He was riding his bike without a helmet when he was hit. The driver did not see him because of the sun. He was flown to Primary Children's hospital in critical condition. He is in the ICU right now with severe head injuries. The Hulce family could use your prayers and support at this tough time. Thanks friends.

September

We are half-way through the month of September. There's something about September that signifies a fresh start. I think this way because I'm a teacher, and school always starts in September. It's the second week of school at the JCC. All the classrooms have sharp new crayons, bright new markers, and art supplies. The children all have shiny new shoes, and are fresh faced and eager to be at school. The months of September and January are great months to make new goals. I've made a few myself, and am eager to get going with them. I will most likely be able to graduate from the University of Utah this spring. That's a huge accomplishment for me. I'd like to lose 15 more pounds. I've lost 55 so far, and I'm well on my way to my goal size. I'd like to create more memories and take more pictures this year.

First Day of School

I had my first day of school two days ago. I've been so busy that I haven't been able to blog about it yet. I'm only taking 11 credit hours, but with working full-time it is a lot. I have a 7:30 am class that I'll be attending Monday-Thursday. That sure seems early, but it's the only time that it's offered that I can take it. It will be a busy semester with math and statistics. If all goes well then I can graduate in the spring. I can definitely see the light at the end of the tunnel and I'm so excited. I know it's taken me a long time to get through with school, but I've learned quite a bit along the way.

My preschool children will have their first day of school next Wednesday. My co-teachers Pam and Anny and I are getting our classroom all set up. It looks darling. Today I spent my morning coloring name-tags with marker. I can't believe that I get paid to color!