Welcome to Teach, Pray, Laugh!

Imagine that you are finally sitting in front of your oldest and dearest friend that you haven't seen in over ten years. You have soooo much to say, but have no idea where to start. That's how I feel right now; writing my very first blog. Although it's overwhelming, it is so exciting!

So, who am I and what am I all about? My name is Janelle Spalding. I'm also known as the Regal Lady, but that's a story for another time. When creating this blog I spent a lot of time thinking about what it is I have to share with you. What is it about me that would be beneficial to someone, anyone who may stumble upon my random ramblings. So I had to answer those questions for myself. Who am I and what am I all about? Deep, right? I know. 

Well, here goes. I am a mother and wife. Standard answer. Let's go deeper. I'm a mother of 13 and 7 year old boys, a stepmother of 24 year old twins (a boy and girl), a grandmother to a 2 year old and a wife to my crazy husband of 14 years. When I read other blogs, I find that stats like that often include the words "stay-at-home mom." That is a title I have never had. I've actually never wanted to be that. That is not my gift! I actually think the women who stay at home are much stronger than I am. 

Instead, after I had my first son, I continued to work in my career as a TEACHER. That's where the TEACH comes from in my title. It's what I do. I've been a teacher for 16 years, but I don't just teach in my classroom; it is just a natural part of who I am. 

To PRAY. This is my gift from God. I have learned to share my life with Him and in return, He hears me and blesses my life. When I don't know what to do, I PRAY. When I can't take it anymore, I PRAY. When everything is going well, I PRAY. I love the Lord and everything that He does for me and through me is to be acknowledged (and often times with a wink and a nod). 

Haven't LAUGHed yet? Well what's wrong with you? I'm the funniest person I know! I will have you know, I leave my students in stitches on a daily basis. My girlfriends call me when they are having a bad day just for a quick LAUGH. It's what I do. As life goes, in the classroom, and with kids anywhere, There is always a funny to share. Stick with me for a reason to smile and we will learn and grow together. 

I hope you come back to see me soon. Know that I know that I haven't gotten deep at all yet with the uncovering of myself and the "Who am I" question. But we have plenty of time for that. It's summer and I've got nothing but time on my hands. We've merely scratched the surface. I have a lot more to say, here at TEACH, PRAY, LAUGH.

Let me know you stopped by; leave a comment. It would be so encouraging. Talk to you soon!