A Big Year

This year is a big year for many reasons.

1.  We are entering into the third year since we moved. After two years in Adelaide I wanted to leave. Badly. We knew people superficially, not very well. I was lonely and very homesick. We were so far away from family. So, as we entered this year, I knew what to expect.

But it is different. I shouldn't be homesick. I am home. That has definitely made the settling process much easier. And we have met some really lovely people. So, rather than thinking we don't know too many people really well, this is the year to get to know them better. To nurture friendships rather than abandon them.

2. After a six month, 3 day a week contract at a school last year that left me worn out physically and mentally, it was with some trepidation that I took a 12 month contract at a different school the year. But it was the best decision I could have made. I feel very blessed and grateful to be working at this school. Beautiful children, lovely staff, fantastic teaching environment. It is a four day a week contract but I almost always work five. And it's easy to do. But settling into a full time teaching role after several years of casual/release work, has hijacked my time. Finding the balance between work, mothering and having a life has been a balancing act. So much after hours work!

3. The Major has changed jobs. After 18 years, reaching the top of his field, he has decided it is time for a change. A huge decision. There is no work in his field here, so it means commuting and time away. He will be away for several months training before settling into the real job. And it means taking a big step backwards. He needs to go backwards to go forwards, and that will be hard for a while.

4. My biggest baby is completing is final year of school. Not sure if it's a bigger year for him or me! I can't believe it. He's now driving, studying hard, thinking about his future. I can't fathom that we are having these conversations, that his future without us is so close. 

But amongst all the busyness, there is always time for 4 hour phone calls with J!

On another note, J and I have decided to do a photo challenge on our blog http://lesleyandjo.wordpress.com/. 

Day one was blue. 

Looking directly into a glass of water.

Ok, so now it is time to stop procrastinating and get back to writing school reports.....

Really? Do I have to?.............

Apparently so.