We have had a long year. The kids are healthy, our toilets are mostly clean, Jeremy and I like each other, and the endless parade of papers get graded on time. But during my quiet moments, like at two in the morning, I found my pulse racing and my thoughts constantly reaching toward the next "due date."
I've been teaching advanced writing for the past twelve months and this week I realized that what was supposed to be "fun" and enriching, was actually intruding upon my sleep. And my ability to relax, ever. English teachers don't leave work at work; they grade papers at the park, the pool, and on vacation.
I usually prepare a hot breakfast every day, even if it's just oatmeal with apples diced into it. My mom always cooked a hot breakfast for us, and I have happy memories sitting at the counter eating pancakes drowned in syrup. But, I haven't made pancakes in months. And while I was in Utah a few weeks ago my step-mom finally said, "Listen, if you don't have enough time or energy to make pancakes with your little girls, then something needs to change."
So I resigned.
I decided to take some time to re-group and gather my chickens close, to sleep uninterrupted, make pancakes, and sit at the park unfettered by stacks of argumentative research papers. Life is long, and I think there will be lots of time for all that other stuff. I'm counting on it!
Good for you! I had a good time visiting last week. Take care. Sarah
ReplyDeletei am so happy for you, can't wait to get home and hang out. school starts in two weeks, can you believe it? this year is going to be a blast!
ReplyDeleteI really agree with you on this one. I struggle with this concept all the time though. There are a lot of worthy and worthwhile pursuits that I'd like to be enjoying, but I have to remind myself that my children are only this small and adorable age for such a short time. There will be plenty of time for those other things.
ReplyDeleteWith every post it is confirmed more completely that you are my hero. For reals.
ReplyDelete