Finally On My Way...

Backpack is ready to go!
Well, yesterday was my last “normal” day with the kids for a while. We enjoyed our day together making cookies and some banana muffins. Then we hopped on our bikes and rode to the park for some sunshine and exercise. Now, speaking of small towns, I love the fact that we can go for a bike ride and stumble upon friends when we arrive at the park. How excellent is that? After a visit, my daughter zoomed over to check out the new playground equipment (still not too old to climb on the spinning-net-climbing-contraption). My teen decided he’d had enough and rode back home. My daughter and I hung out for awhile longer, eventually making our own way home to get some dinner together.
As I started packing later that evening, we all ended up congregating in our bedroom. Although the kids were watching tv, I think they just enjoyed everyone being together. Maybe we’re all a bit nervous about this new adventure – not sure exactly how the kids feel. I know I’m nervous.
I didn’t sleep very well. I was dreaming that I was on my first teaching placement and it was a complete bomb. Why is it that you feel like you are awake most of the night but when your alarm goes off, you are dead to the world? I dragged myself out of bed at 4:30, gave my cat a pat on the head and hopped in the shower to wake myself up. Of course, everyone is sleeping and that’s the time that I manage to drop the soap repeatedly and loudly.
I packed the car the night before, so all I had to do was make my tea, load up my backpack and prepare to hit the road. My dedicated husband always wants me to let him know when I’m leaving so I wake him up to say goodbye and then hopefully he falls right back to sleep. I’d much rather just sneak out and let him rest, but this little farewell gesture is important. I’m glad for it.
5:00 am and I’m on the road. Should make it by 7:30 if the traffic is good. Well, guess what? How could I possibly manage to get behind a ridiculously slow car at 5:30 in the morning? I don’t know but I did. I think I fould the only one. Once I lost this car I picked up a transport and then I was slowed by construction. Ahh! I did make it by 7:40, so still time to find a parking spot and my classroom.
I must admit that today I was actually looking forward to class. After years of wanting to do this, I am finally getting my chance. I miss the kids but now that we’ve experienced being away while I took a course in July, I know that we can all do it. It’s also great to be staying with my cousin because I don’t feel as lonely.
I picked my locker today, too. This just feels like high school all over again! I choose a locker number that matches my birth year (which will remain secret). That’s one of the hazards of going back to school in your… ah, well..later in life. It’s harder to remember where you left things. That being said, I must say that I am using my lock from high school -- can remember that number. I’m pretty proud of myself.

I really am, you know. Proud of myself.