Changes

At this point, I don't think I'm even going to apologize for my almost 3 month absence. Life has been full and busy and, as a result, the blog has been silent.

But that brings me to the topic of my first post in recent history.

After 3 great years of teaching 2nd grade, 3 years where I loved almost every minute of my job, we decided to make a change and I kind of quit my job. I say kind of because I had every intention of quitting but instead ended up asking for a year's leave of absence. This gives me the time I need to focus in on my life, my kids, and my home like I need to, but also gives me a way to go back in a year if that is what is best for all. I'm thankful for the leave, it was a gentler way to have the break we needed but still feel very connected to the school and staff that has become such a big part of my life.

It also in very good since we will, hopefully, be adopting some time soon. Kevin is always pointing out to me that we are closer to adopting today then we were when we started, something I am very quick to forget. Now that we've made it to the 2 years of waiting mark, we are on the "longer side" of waiting which means that-seriously now-it is bound to happen sooner then later. But only time will tell when that baby makes his or her way into our home.

So, next fall, when Hannah heads out to 2nd grade, I will not be going with her. Instead I'll be hanging out with Abby, bringing her to Pre-K (please don't say "preschool" to her-she will quickly correct you that she is now in Pre-K!) 3 mornings a week, and doing who knows what. It has been awhile since I've been a stay at home mom and I'll admit that I have some trepidation about it--what will I do all day? who will I see? does Kevin really expect me to clean the house since I am home? are a few of my questions. But I do know myself and figure it won't take long to start finding a regular pattern to life, filled with play dates (a luxury Abby does not really know), tea times (ahh--I got the loveliest new immersion teapot to celebrate the end of the year) and, possibly, even exercise. I also plan to sub a bit which will help pad the bank account and give me some chances to be with the kids and teachers who have come to mean so much to me.

This change was not quickly or easily done. There was a lot of thought and prayer that went into it, followed by months of essentially sitting on the decision while I waited for the school year to end. I can say, though, that I am confident that it is what is best for myself and my family and, most likely, my blog too.