Keeping up with the Joneses

Serving in Bolivia

through

SIM

Brandon and Jamie Jones.

March 22, 2008

3rd quarter is over. 4th quarter, here we come!

I can't believe that we have made it through 3/4 of the school year. This past quarter has the been the hardest so far. I have learned so much, especially in my English classes, and Brandon and I have accomplished so much.

In English classes, I covered some really important elements for writing. It was a real struggle for me because when I was in school, I did not really enjoy writing, and I don't quite remember learning the rules on how to do it well. But we made it, and I think that my students actually have improved in their writing. Its only God. I can't believe I was able to do it, but when God is your strength, anything is possible.

In addition to learning new things in my classes, I have also been coaching the all-new CCS cheer squad. I love working with the girls. Because they haven't had a squad before, the girls are quite driven to do a good job and give their best. They all have so much talent, and they have learned new moves and routines so fast. I have been able to develop relationships with the girls that I can't have in the classroom. Its been great learning how to be good Christian role models of cheering at sporting events. And many of the girls have grown in their self-confidence and their voices. We hope to continue the new cheerleading tradition at CCS next year.

Check out cheer pics here

So now its home stretch for the end of the school year. We had our spring break this past week. When we get back, we will only have 50 more days of classes till the end. It has all seemed to go so fast. Brandon and I are praying that we can close out the school year reaching our goals and deepening our relationships with the students.

Brandon and I are going to be returning to CCS next year, but unfortunately many teachers are leaving next year, so there are many slots we need filled. During the summer, we're going back to the States to visit family, friends, and our supporting churches. We are planning to try and get a lot done, so pray that we can share God's glory in the work He is doing here in Bolivia. Maybe we can recruit some teachers for the school.

Well, the coming months are going to be full of planning, finishing school, and lots of prayer. Its always so wonderful to see God unfold everything according to His will, but when you look at the craziness in the beginning, its hard to imagine. But I'm going to finish out this school year with the faith that God will put everything together just as He has planned.