James 1:2-3

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness."

Last month, I finished my time at ICAN (International Christian Academy of Nagoya). I then spent 10 days in Michigan at a wonderful conducting workshop (which I will probably make a separate blog post). When I came back to Nagoya, I started my new job within 12 hours post-arrival.

My new job... is quite a change! After teaching music in all sorts of settings (Kinder-12th grade, orchestra, choir, band, general, history, theory, etc.).... I decided to accept a position at an international preschool, teaching two year olds.

As I kick off my 6th year of teaching, I'm completely humbled by the other teachers, staff, and assistants. I am learning SO SO MUCH! Early childhood is a different game, yo. The classroom management, the timing, the awareness, and the energy is on a whole new level for me.

Everyone at work is very helpful and  parents are happy with me even though I started late (Japanese school calendar starts in April, so the timing was hard coming out of an American school calendar). The other two teachers are very patient with me and always answering my questions in gentleness. Students had trouble having a consistent teacher again but getting better! I sing everything to them (greetings, instructions, etc.) and it's like a musical everyday. ^^;  

This is indeed a challenge, but it's a great one. Thanks again for praying :)

Prayers, thoughts, updates for July 25, 2017:

-  Praises and thankful for finishing N4 test
-  Studying Japanese N3, pray for quicker understanding (N3 test is in December)
-  For God to work through me and to show kindness towards others at work
- Praises for a new job
- Praises for financial support during a rough transition from one job to another

Test went smoothly~

(Results in Aug/Sept?)