Storm Clouds and Signs
It's been the end of a challenging teaching year. Not quite as difficult as my first year in SC, but still challenging. As the year came to a close and it was time to sign my contract, I felt very conflicted. I've been in a bit of a slump — uninspired, tired, and just not sure. It wasn't only teaching; I was feeling that way about everything.
However, a couple of things happened.
First, I had a little break. Mark and Jules went to Florida to visit his Mom, and I got a weekend to myself. Not just a weekend, but a three-day weekend. It was so lovely. I read, slept in, made super simple meals, and did whatever I felt like doing. The weather was stormy, too, so I didn't feel any pressure to go out much. Ahhh...
My weekend alone was pretty amazing, but then two more things happened.
I got an email from Greg whose girlfriend purchased the painting I donated to the SC Wildlife Foundation last year. Her birthday is coming up, and he asked if I would be willing to meet them for lunch as a surprise birthday gift so she could meet the artist. What?! I was so honored. They came to the house to see the studio, and we had lunch this weekend. I haven't had such easy conversation in a long time. I feel like I just made two new friends. So incredible.
Next, for the past four or five years, I've participated in Sketchbook Revival. For those who don't know, it's an online art workshop that lasts about ten days. Three artists teach online art lessons each day, and it's free with a wonderful community. The woman who started and runs the event is Karen Abend. She puts out a monthly newsletter that always features an artist, and I was asked to submit my information. Wow—so cool!
I don't know about you, but I feel like that is the universe's way of not-so-subtly saying, "Uh, yes. Keep going. Keep making and doing what you do."
School ended this week—yay! I signed my contract for another year. I'm still a little conflicted, but I'm moving forward.
I had a great last week. Students only had school on Tuesday and a half day on Wednesday. We had our year-end celebration after students left on Wednesday, and Thursday and Friday were workdays, which basically means cleanup days. I had my room mostly packed up already, so the cleanup was super easy.
I'm ready to slide into summer.
Next up... my summer fun list.
as always thank you for reading, I hope if you're having some stormy weather that the clouds part and the sun comes out.
Cheers, Eileen
