Returning to work i was terrified how i'd do it all. I quickly proved to myself that it wasn't as big of a challenge as i thought it would be. Those first few weeks i was exhausted, and couldn't sit down when i got home because i would have never gotten back up. I always knew that when Noah went to school full-time i would return to work. I didn't know if i'd be in the classroom or if i'd decide to do something else. Children have always been my passion, they're easy to be around, loving and little sponges. You can't fully explain the feeling when you see one of your students outside of school and their eyes light up at the sight of you. They shout your name, then they'll do one of two things... be shy (shocked you actually leave the building) or run right up to you and throw their arms around you. Returning to work has been and amazing experience.
The boys have always been my main juggling act, they take center stage going in three different directions. Watching them grow over the last year I've seen so many changes. Micah has grown physically taller, wiser and has an understanding that wasn't there before. He doesn't seem to challenge everything i say anymore (I'm sure this will return, he is only a kid after all) I think he is finally settling in and happy again. He is an exceptional student and constantly wanting to learn more. His next hurtle will come this summer when his best friend moves away. I feel so helpless with this situation trying to find as many opportunities for the boys to hang out not knowing what else to do. Char has been Micah's rock or safe place for so long. Josiah is constantly on the move and needs to be reminded to slow down some days. He's super social and friends with everyone with the biggest heart. I've only seen this grow with Age. He's constantly curious and asking questions about why and how? You can always find him with a soccer ball at his feet and ready for a challenge. In a week baseball starts and he couldn't be more excited. This will be our main focus (With a 8th Birthday in there) until swimming starts at the end of May. And last but certainly not lease...Noah. Words don't describe this tiny ball of energy. He's silly oh so silly, your typical youngest child. He fits everywhere and is sure to keep you on your toes. More recently he has become a little artist, his 3D art is a sight to be seen. He's happiest when hes 'trying' to keep up with his big brothers.
My personal and social life has been significantly more important to me recently. When you find someone worth spending or making that extra time for it's that much better. Before i wasn't willing to budge but I've realized that my happiness is important too. A happier mom makes for a better mom and as much as my children come first i'm important too. I've actually found that taking time out for me and allowing myself to be happy has made them happier. I'm able to see things differently now. Watching someone parent from afar on the other side has opened my eyes in a way i didn't know before, it's a feeling that sparks so many emotions.
I've experienced a few challenges with PTA and remind myself daily that this is a volunteer position and my best is enough. We're all working toward the same goal and that's for our students, teachers and parents to be as successful as possible.
And what I've learned about myself is that I am enough. For so long I worried about if I'd ever be enough? I may not have a huge title or get it right the first time but...I always figure it out. I may even drop that ball a time or two but i'm quick to pick it back up and start again. My heart and intentions are always in the right place. I can juggle it all!!!
