Loving Colorado

Absolutely LOVING MY JOB! Who can say that? Every child that I've had the opportunity to work with, has responded and connected with me in so many ways. I have noticed that I tend to relate to children who have trouble listening/ acting out/ or minor autistic behaviour and its been really inspiring to see them come out of their shells and respond positively to me just in the few hours that I meet them and get to know them.

Its incredible.

 I'm so blessed to be here, so inlove with the idea of blessing children atleast for a day. I thought I would have alot of difficulty with the aspect of having a different child everyday (though some times they come to the daycare for a couple days in a row) -- but I like it even better. I think its because children are so "undependable" in their moods, reactions, feelings. Getting to know a child over a longer period of time causes me to expect them to act a certain way, or respond specifically to different stimuli. But from day to day, they do, and SHOULD change their minds, their opinions, their ways of responding. This way I am learning to love and respect them for who they are -- regardless of how they are acting.
 
For example: Today we had a 2 yearold -- (a group of 6 in the toddler room today) and he didn't want to sit down while he was eating. I asked him why -- and could he tell me what was wrong. He said it hurt. I didn't push it any further and we decided he could stand, but only because he wasn feeling discomfort. I found myself wanting to understand his reasoning behind not wanting to sit down, rather then expect him to do what I said because "I said so." It felt good to know that because I care so much about these kids... even if they're just their for a couple hours-- i'm actually making an impact on a deeper level compared to just oh-- nap, eat, and don't throw that toy:D
We found out later on that he had SEVERE diaper rash... that the mother hadn't told us about:( 
 
 
So I have plenty of stories to rattle off,  and they wouldn't even bore you because mostly they're just AWESOME -- but i'll save them for a later date. Thinking about starting a journal.. because this blog is ment for BI-WEEKLY entertainment:)  

Following our Passions

What or who is your passion? Do you jump at the opportunity to experience it while you can?

I originally moved out to California for reasons and circumstances beyond my control. At the time, I was working toward a Bachelors Degree (Physical Therapy) in The Netherlands and although my first year was thoroughly enjoyable, I continued to feel like it wasn't my "true calling". Now, a year later, I am blessed with an incredible knowledge of massage therapy, along with the skills to heal and help people on a variety of different levels. With still so much to learn and a desire to better myself, I feel like I can't just stop here.

Recently, I've grown aware of my connection to children. I have loved and learned from many, and been given the opportunity to value their honesty and overall passion for life and truth. Their openess and acceptance of others has been an inspiration to my lifestyle and how I choose to live. Taking every opportunity I can to learn and influence those around me, I have been offered a position at Keystone Children's Center in Keystone, Colorado.

I've gratefully accepted this invitation, though I will miss working with the children at Anna Yates Elementary through the Emery Ed Fund. I know that this lovely new change will inspire and motivate me to continue on my journey to find my true self -- with all those wonderful smiles that make it all the more enjoyable.

Massage to the People

What have you done in your past that inspires you... motivates you... creates happiness in your being... that you haven't done in a while? Why haven't you done it? What's holding you back?

I just got done giving a massage to my friend Brian who is designing a website and blog page for me as I type.
I've recently gone to an awesome yoga session called Yoga to the People based in Berkeley, CA. They also have one opening in the Mission in San Francisco.

I continue to be inspired by it, even though I don't go as often as I want, or am motivated to do.