Message to my former students:

When my teaching journey began I was a fearless, outspoken, 23 year old smartie pants that lacked patience, tact, and sometimes self control. It was my desire to coach volleyball and basketball while motivating you to get active and eat healthy. I didn't consider that I would be learning from you along the way, that some days would be as challenging as they were, or that I would come to need you as much as some of you needed me. Whew! What a grand experience!! From being intentionally pushed and quickly forced to decide if I wanted to hit a 13 year old or keep my career, to being cursed at here and there, to crying with and praying for you, I was stretched, pulled, pushed, and tried from top to bottom. From breakthrough moments in my office, to improving grades to be an A plus student, to building supportive relationships with your parents, long talks about life, simple eye contact in the halls, a random hug without any words, or the thank you cards I found under my office door... You all changed my life! You taught me patience, sacrifice, and compassion. Thank you for challenging my maturity, and exposing my weaknesses.

For those of you that are BIG KIDS now ,thank you for giving me a chance... Thank you for listening, having an open mind, and letting me in! From the bottom gym to those hot days on the track, I believed in you and have always wanted greatness for you. I hope that I made a positive impact that will last a lifetime. One that forced you to press beyond the mediocrity that surrounds and aggressively tries to consume us. I apologize for the impatience and anger that I displayed in my immaturity when you were just "being a teenager". I miss those dance routines you all created for your final exams, the times you attempted to hide in the bleachers when you were suppose to be running on the track, or those badminton games that I always crushed you in.... From the roller blades, to the scooter races, I enjoyed being with you every step of the way!!

Thank you for teaching me what being a teacher is all about.... EVERYTHING I wasnt I can say thanks to you I am today! My future students owe you big time... I love you, I miss you, and you better be doing something GREAT for the world around you!! Eat healthy, exercise daily, and LIVE! "Go get dressed..." ;-)