First Day of School 2024-25

August 26th, 2024 (my 32nd birthday)

The first day of school!

I didn't have my elementary classes today just my new HS classes. It was really weird and a bit nerve wracking to be teaching in a classroom. But after the first class ended I felt a lot more comfortable being there and talking in front of a bunch of students staring at you. The second class went a lot better because I knew what to expect. Tomorrow will be the true test of what it's going to be like because I will have all of my classes (elementary and high school).

I'm super blessed by this new opportunity to teach High school. I think it's going to be a true test of my abilities as a teacher alongside an opportunity to grow.

This picture is the 9th month picture. Brittany is going to put together a side-by-side picture from when she was 9 months pregnant to 9 months out of the womb.

Mango Smoothie from Beniya Mango Smoothie

Taco Rice From Rulers

On Sunday the day before our first day of school we got to indulge in some Yummy Mango Smoothies before they closed down for the summer.

Avery (9 months old)

Avery is getting so big! (except she's still a peanut). Brittany just noticed today that another tooth is popping out. That will be her 7th tooth! She is so playful and happy and she is crawling around every square inch of our house.

Dinner and the Beach

Brittany and I took a quick dinner date to this new Chicken and Waffle's restaurant called "Cornerz" that opened up down the hill from our school. Afterwards we went to the beach to see the end of the sunset.

Our School

OCSI at Sunset

I took my new drone out for the first time and captured this shot of the school during sunset. I'm excited to see what other pictures/videos that I will be able to get. Hopefully I don't crash my drone in the ocean or on a tree (like i've done before).

I have received so many birthday wishes today of which I am super grateful. The community at our school is such a blessing in so many ways.

Prayer for the year

One message I received from my parents was a prayer.

Thank you Mom and Dad.

"Dear Heavenly Father,

Grant Tommy and his fellow teachers a year of prosper, of grace and peace as they approach this year. Give them protection and security as they go about their duties to teach and train the students. Relieve any anxiety and stress for both the teachers, administrators, students and all those involved at OCSI. May all involved feel God’s presence as they go about their duties. And know that Prayer warriors will be lifting up prayers daily for a safe and successful year.

Your Mom & Dad love you. Good luck!"

Wishing you all a great start to whatever new season of life you have entered. Looking forward to see what plans God has in store for our family and this ministry here in Okinawa.