...but if you try sometimes, you get what you need.

(Sidebar: I may as well face it: my average posting ability seems to be once per month. So if I make the mental commitment to post at that pace, I know I can stay on track. And any additional posts will be a bonus!  So that's what I'll do.)

When I open a magazine, or watch a home renovation show, I usually think, "Oh, THAT'S what I need to make my life better." Ads are designed to do that, and I am a highly susceptible viewer. But I'm also old enough to know better. Yes, I wish I had the time/energy/money to make my house look like a page in a magazine. And, yes, if I didn't suffer so much from residual exhaustion due to my poor nightly sleep, I would have probably spent my younger years making more of an effort to complete (who am I kidding--start) home improvements. But I didn't. And that's okay, because I really have all I need.
I'm not saying I'll stop "wanting." And I'm DEFINITELY not saying I'll stop doing what I can to make my physical surroundings nicer. But I really am satisfied in life because I have so much--the people I love are near and healthy. I can sit on my deck at all hours, in all weather, and enjoy my surroundings. I have a house that is not falling down, keeping me safe and warm. I love my job, though I often complain of exhaustion.
No great insights this month, just a heart full of gratitude.

Once more into the fray

Vacation over. School starts again. The lazy days of summer didn't feel like they were flying by, and yet, it is unbelievable to me that we're into September already.
I truly spoiled myself this summer. I was in the pool at least once a day, with the exception of, maybe, 7 days total. I actually scheduled in daily pool time. Felt so selfish at the time, but I'm so glad I did that. Just floated, read trash, read great stuff, read school stuff. Listened to the birds. Watched the butterflies. I must be sure to do that next summer as well.
I do seem to thrive on the busy-ness of the school day, though. I'm not sure what's gonna happen to my brain (and my time) when I finally retire (or they kick me out, whichever comes first). I love reading tips from other teachers, thinking up new ways to present material, playing with the ever-advancing technology. I need to stop worrying about the "what will happen whens" and concentrate on the NOW. 
Okay. I'll do that. Just as I enjoyed every minute of summer leisure, I'll treasure every moment of hectic school-day needs. 
Take a breath…let it out…and…GO!