I’m not the type that puts too much emphasis on awards. Blogging is a passion, a labor of love; therefore, awards do not define me or my work.

I mean, don’t get me wrong. It’s not that being recognized by others for a job well done is unappreciated, but what I know to be true intrinsically is way more meaningful to me than any external praise I can receive. Setting goals and then doing whatever is necessary to accomplish them is of the utmost importance—regardless of how others weigh in on the matter. That is why winning the Edublogs Teacher Blog of 2014 is significant to me. Not because I personally picked up some digital bling, but because in the process of doing so, one of my students made a dream a reality: To win the Student Blog of the Year. Knowing I played a key role in her success and better yet, we were recognized together—like a team—is beyond coolness. As an educator, it’s one of those unforgettable, irreplaceable, cherished moments that speak to me like “Yep, this would definitely explain why I chose this career path.”

So, here’s to you, Aubs, for never losing sight of your vision, for staying the course despite last year’s disappointment and for finally picking up that swanky badge for your space. You rock, GG!

Be sure to check out Simply Aubree, an official award-winning blog, to read all about the ramblings of a country girl! ♥