Mrs. Frogster, Firsthand

I had always assumed that I was just one of those people who naturally had a lot of energy.  I was quick and eager to wake up in the mornings and get on with my day.  I taught at school all week, invested time in my hobbies, and generally had a positive attitude to go along with it.  And then came the children.  In 2006, God blessed us with our first child who apparently did not like sleeping.  Deep in the throes of new mommyhood, I discovered when Gabi was just five months old that I was pregnant again with our second child.  Tired does not even begin to describe how I felt during that time.    Imagine how I felt when the pregnancy test showed positive again at the end of 2007!  Having three kids in three years was the most exhausting experience for me.  I ran on little sleep, lots of coffee, and less-than-healthy food grabbed in my spare moments.  I learned very quickly that my three little ones needed structure and routine,...

I have the privilege of teaching at a most unique school.  It's hard to explain the concept of this school that has benefited my life and the lives of my own children.  Basically, our school takes students who are behind in their academics/social skills, students who are right on par with their peers, and students who are gifted in one or more areas of study and works with them one-on-one to help them achieve their highest potential.  Many of our students do not do well in a traditional, large-classroom setting; so our school offers them a sanctuary from their anxieties and fears and gives them a place where they are able to progress at their own rate without fear of comparison or judgment. If that sounds amazing and fantastic, it is!  It is also a lot of hard work.  This year, I teach twelve students who have various skills and abilities.  Some of these students are all over the board academically.  For example, one of my students is in 6th grade re...