PLANS THAT CHANGE

Several things have been happening that have affected my plans or maybe I should say lack of plans.  But, I think we are back on track. 

I have been working again.  I am filling in at my previous place of employment.  It is nice to have the extra income but I remember why I retired every time I go back to work.  I take ownership and pride in whatever position I work in, so I jump in feet first and never do things half-way.  That being said, stress, even the stress that I put on myself, equals work.  However, it is nice to stay up to date with new procedures and technology.  You never know when you might need them.

I am working at an elementary school right now.  A very dear friend, Chris, is the new principal there.  Chris and I worked together in Human Resources in another school district about 14 years ago.  Chris is one of those people that is a blessing in your life if you know her.  So, when she called and said she needed help, I was very willing to help her.  Even though I was in the education business for 28 years, I had never worked at an elementary school.  However, something I have observed in my 28 years is that some teachers are as "needy" as whatever level they teach.  They also take on the responses, reactions, and body language of the level they teach.  Now before all the teachers out there get in an uproar, I said SOME not all.  I have worked in a middle school and a high school and now an elementary school and that has been my observation. However, getting ready for school to start at any level is a lot of work.  All your kids show up on the first day and things are ready to go for the school year, but with short time lines, budget constraints, and mandatory non-helpful meetings, this equals to a lot of long hours to have those things ready.  Believe me, if you work in education, you want every child's first day of school to be one that will set the tone for the rest of the school year. I just got a call this morning from a friend who wants me to work for a couple of weeks at the administration building.  I'm going to have to think about that.

So, I'm pretty sure I will be headed to Branson some time the last of September/first of October.  I hope they have a prettier fall with the leaves than last year.  I think they have had a lot of rain this year so the leaves should be prettier.  I am hoping they have cooler temps too. I want to get back to doing some hiking but it is going to have to be cooler than the 100+ degree heat we have been having.  When I do anything outside, I feel like the wicked witch from Wizard of Oz when she says, "I'm melting, I'm melting."

Now I have to figure out when to go visit Daughter and my sister.  Man, this travelling thing can get pretty stressful too! :)