Work is great, but I am feeling a bit overwhelmed with managing my time. For 2 years I made my own schedule around A. and Z.'s school and activities. I barely looked at the clock and I don't own a watch. I guess I should invest in one now that I need to actually be on time. My greatest regret is not being able to email, blog or chat away on the phone with my friends and family. I will try to blog once a week to let everyone know that I am still kickin' here in Seattle.

Today is also Earth Day. For our part, we are staying home so we won't pollute the air with exhaust. It's the "lazy way" to celebrate!

To all the families and friends of the poor souls lost at Virginia Tech, my heart goes out to you. But most of all, to the families and friends of the soldiers who are fighting or dying in Iraq and Afghanastan every day, we have not forgotten you. The media in the US chooses to irresponsibly subject us to a barrage of horrible images from the killer at Virginia Tech, while ignoring the bigger picture of violence overseas.

Just a few ramblings! I hope everyone has a great week!

Among the Little People Again

I am, once again, employed as a teacher in a local (four blocks from home!) childcare center. It is an Intergenerational Learning Center located inside a nursing home. So I get the best of both the young and elderly. It is a place that has warmed my heart. I love helping society's most vulnerable people and seeing them at their best (and sometimes worst.) The people I work with are kind, intelligent and caring. I think I am really going to like it there. The Director is encouraging me to finish my degree and has vowed to help me find funding through the State. Thanks to my friend (neighbor, L. 3 houses down!) I don't have to worry about A. and Z., and balancing work and family. She's graciously decided to step-in and be "Momma" for A. and Z. when I am not able to be home. Life is good all around. I have a lot to be thankful for!

Magnolia Trees

I am loving the springtime here in the PNW. I have "rediscovered" my love for magnolia trees. I had a conversation with kelkel where I asked her if they grow a lot in MO where I grew up. She said they do and I got to thinking about springtime in STL and Colorado and all of the places I have visited during this wonderful time of the year. I really missed all of the trees of my youth in MO, while living in CO. Now I have a chance to enjoy all of the lush growth here. I'm taking it all in and enjoying the beauty all around.