Carving Out Saturday

It's been a crazy whirlwind of a week.  The first week of school always is.  New schedules, new students, new responsibilities.  Change is inevitable - you learn to go with the flow in this profession. 

The "flow" this week meant no air conditioner in the classrooms, not enough desks for the ever-increasing class sizes, 150 new faces to memorize, my first meeting as Department Chair, and two physical therapy appointments.

But it also meant happy reunions with colleagues and former students, a renewed sense of purpose, sparkly new school supplies, and the thrill of being in an academic environment once again.  When it comes right down to it, I really do love my job.

That being said, I wholeheartedly recognize the need for "me" time.  My sanity would not survive without it.  And even though this week was just one week, the first in long line of school weeks, I feel compelled to carve out this Saturday and claim it just for myself.  I will not be grading summer assignments, planning curriculum, or checking my email.  I will not formalize agendas or ponder the department budget.  I will not concern myself with class rosters, seating charts, or syllabi.  I will not be a Pavlovian minion to the ringing of bells.

This Saturday is mine and I deserve it.  I will read blogs, peruse magazines, and drink my coffee slowly- savoring each drop the way it was meant to be savored. I will eat when I am hungry and sleep when I am tired.  I will wear comfortable shoes, if I wear any at all.  Today I will be happier than a bird with a french fry...and when Monday rolls around again, I will greet her warmly, ready for another whirlwind and another fabulous week.

 

Smiles,

Today's Gratitude List:

• temperate weather (my thoughts go out to folks on the U.S. East Coast)
• conversations with my sister
• dreamy morning fog rolling in from the shore
• an agenda-less day