Well, school is back in session. It took the entire summer to recover from last year (physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually), so I feel I have been dragging myself back to work every day. Don't get me wrong...teaching is a blast...it's just that the first year was EXHAUSTING. Fortunately, after the first week of school this year, I am already feeling SO relaxed and confident. Plus, I've set some goals for myself to keep me from getting too burned out again. Next time you see me you should ask me how they're going:
1. I will NEVER, EVER stay at the school working past 5pm again (unless it is before the class play or report cards or parent teacher conferences.), something I did just about every night last year.
2. I am to do everything in my power to keep teaching from consuming every aspect of my life. It takes so much effort to STOP THINKING about work once I am home, but I am determined to do it. For my sanity I must take time off to focus my attention on my home, my husband, religion, and being social.
3. There is a co-worker that hates my guts for reasons that she won't explain. It has been very stressful in the past, but this year I am not going to spend any time worrying and trying to please her. I will be kind and helpful in any way I can and then I will FORGET ABOUT IT. Let the chips fall where they may.
Now that I have that out of the way, let me just say that I am very excited for this new year. My class is packed with some of the cutest 8-year-olds you ever saw, and quite honestly, very few things make me feel more alive than teaching. Bring on the new year!
third day of school: Walking my kids down the hall at the end of the day when a BAT flew past my head. It crawled behind that shiny mirror thing in the background until it was caught in a bucket. The principal gave it to this kid. All I can say is he's got one lucky mother. ;)
6 comments:
The "not staying past 5:00" goal is going to be the best thing for you! I had to set the same goal for myself. Teaching really can become your entire life if you're not careful.
I think you're wise in setting those goals. It took me a few years to realize that I really didn't have to take school work home or stay later than an hour after school.
I am so glad that things have started well and I think the goals sound great! Good luck with everything - I hope it all goes well.
As far as the bat goes . . . gross!!! I hate bats!!! Remember that night when a bat flew into our Lindon House and John had to rescue us? Sad to say, but that was a rather tramatic experience that still makes me cringe :)
Awesome goals Rachel--and whomever that person is--wow! it is their problem and not yours. Glad you won't them them waste your time! Hope you have a great year at school and even better at home & church!
Good luck Rachel! I can't believe the summer is already over! I love the goals you set. I can't believe that a co-worker could dislike you, but if they do, it's THEIR problem. You are amazing.
I just found your blog. I just have to say I felt the same way about needing the summer to recover mentally, spiritually, and physically. This year is already going better! It makes me feel better that others are in the same boat and that we can relate to each others experiences! You inspire me to make my own goals to make this year better. I'm excited to continue to work with you again! Your a great teacher. I love it how when you come get your students after lunch they cheer when they see you!
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