Even though I have been completely AWOL for many months, dearest Salma thought to include me in her newest blogging venture, called 2011 Reflections. You can read about it here. I am going to take Salma's invitation to restart my blog as a blessing, and not worry about whether I deserve it.
Because one thing I learned last year is that blessings come when you least expect it – and have nothing to do with whether you deserve it or not.
In July 2011, I accidentally got a job. I wasn’t looking for it. In the last few years, I have loved working very part time as an Early Steps provider and completely full-time as a mother and wife. I had planned to continue that until Gem, now 15 and a high school sophomore, leaves for college in the fall of 2014.
I was spending a few weeks with my sister in Virginia while Gem was at a nearby science camp. Cooking, working, and visiting with my Dearest Sis, playing, reading, sewing with the kiddos.
My friend Lynn phoned from back home to say that a local public school (BCP) needed a teacher to work with preschoolers who have special needs. She said that when I talked to BCP, I wouldn’t be able to say “no.” I spoke with their special education committee over the phone. Lynn was right. When my husband agreed that I should give it a try, I did. Gem and I arrived home August 1st and I started work on the 2nd.
Some of my unlooked-for blessings:
- The children: They’re always the best part of teaching. Each day shows me a new side to each personality. I have always said that being a preschool teacher is the most fun you can have and still get paid.
- My colleagues: Because “my” kids are included in the “regular ed” (bad terminology, I know) classrooms, the teachers have to accept me into their domains. In my experience, some teachers don’t play well with others. At BCP I am fortunate to work with a warm, caring group of professionals who really put the needs of children and families uppermost.
- Meaningful, fulfilling work to do every day.
- Learning that my family will pitch in with the housework. I can’t seem to let go of my cleanliness/nutrition standards, but can’t keep up with it all on my own either. Things aren’t so tidy as when I did it all, but it feels better somehow. My favorite meal is when my husband makes breakfast for supper.
- An unexpected financial cushion.
Dearest Angelle, I have missed seeing your posts here, BUT, I know that you are very busy. Now I know that you have really been doing what you love, and there is nothing better than that.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate that you had unexpected blessings, and it's funny how the little things can be over-looked. Children are really great to work with, I also loved working with them years ago.
I especially love the part where your family helps out with the chores. You're right, it's never the same but we learn to let the little things go. I also love reading about your hubby making breakfast for dinner..I thought that was just in my house:)
Thanks so much for linking up with our project Angelle...I hope that you will be adding more posts soon.
Happy New Year!
Being grateful will attract more blessings. It's great to know you through Salma's blog and I look forward to more learning and sharing. Have a great weekend.
ReplyDeleteHi Angelle,
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by my blog the other day. Your comment meant a lot.
I just think it's interesting that you mention Early Steps. I've had the pleasure of knowing a couple of lovely ladies who work for Early Steps and can't say enough about how much they've come to mean to us.
Keep up the great work. :)
@Salma, thanks for helping me back into the saddle!
ReplyDelete@Inspiring Always, I agree with you. Even if things are going wrong, there will be something positive. If we focus on that, sooner or later things turn around.
@HijabiMommy, thank you for your kind words. Working with young children, including those with special needs, is my real calling.
This is a beautiful post and thank you for the reminder to stay open and to count our blessings. And of course learning to let go of the way that we want things done, is always an amazing lesson, and one which I share.
ReplyDeleteLove and peace for you and your family in 2012.
Dear Nadya, thanks for your kind words. I am wishing that love and peace right back at ya!
ReplyDeleteThanks for dropping by my blog!
ReplyDeleteYou are right, blessings come when you least expect it, often when you are not looking for them.
I am glad that you have found work that you enjoy!
Dear Foz, I am too -- even if it was a couple of years early!
ReplyDeleteyou are so blessed indeed to get a job unexpectedly and with special need kids :)
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot for sharing with your beautiful lessons with us :)
Angelle, What a lovely post to remind us to stay open, blessings might come our way, even when we think there is no chance they do. God knows best.
ReplyDeleteI am happy you found a job you like and that it gives you life many good things.
Be blessed in 2012.
@Wafa, so true! Thank you for sharing what you're reading lately. Hope you Enjoy "Gonzales and Daughter."
ReplyDelete@MarieHarmony, Thanks for stopping by! Hope to see more of you.