April 23, 2011

Happy Easter



Easter is one of my favorite holidays (the other is Halloween, contradictory I know. . .but I like costumes!) To get back to the point, Easter, it has a lot of meaning to me, especially this year. It's a time for new beginnings. Tomorrow is the last day of my maternity leave. I go back to work the day after Easter, a new beginning for me. I can't help but make the connection.



Easter means spring is here. Spring is the best time of year in New England. Just when you think the winter will never end; when you've pulled out your suitcases; when you're ready to head south and leave these cold New England winters forever; here she comes, SPRING! Living in New England is trying but frustratingly poetic. You kind of need the winter struggle to enjoy the beauty that spring brings.

When I found out I was pregnant I felt like a caterpillar in the winter. . . I felt like life was over. How will I be able to do this? How will I be able to be good at my job if I have the responsibilities of being a mom? I love working so much and have so many dreams for myself and now it was over. But the caterpillar could never imagine what was about to happen next and I could never imagine the transformation of my life. Baby Stella is more than anything I could have dreamed up. Life is not "over" with Stella, I feel like my life is finally beginning.  I'm still learning her. Like the way she makes a fist when she's hungry and how she smiles, giggles and "talks" only once in the morning (you have to enjoy it!) It's so funny how quickly you can change roles from a teacher to a learner in the presence of kids.

Now, I'm about to start teaching and being a Mom this Monday. Taking the two things I love the most, teaching and Stella and trying to make time for both, how will I do it? Change is scary. But it is the uncertainty that lets me know that I'm growing even if I don't know how. I'm ready for what Monday will bring.

I think. . . 

9 comments:

Phyl said...

The thing I remember most (about going back to work post-baby) is that just when you have figured something out, and have established a pattern that you think you can depend on, it all changes. But that's not necessarily a bad thing; it's just life.

Welcome back to teaching, but keep sharing with us about Stella!

Unknown said...

Thanks Phyl. You and I are both night owls!!! Can't seem to go to bed at a decent hour either. Yes I agree! Nothing is permanent except the stain on her onesies.

Paintedpaper said...

Good luck on going back. I will say since being a mommy I understand kids much more! Children are a blessing! Especially when they come in and say "Happy Easter" with their little voices. :) Happy Easter to you and your family!

Jennifer Matott (Sigmagirl) said...

I remember that feeling! I did it twice and each time I went back, I started in a new building! Geesh talk about changes! I went from Middle level to HS and then the 2nd baby, I went for HS to Elementary!!! Whoa! That was turbulent. It was not by choice as it was the first move, but I was determined to do my best. I have to say that there is something exciting and wonderful about starting again. You will miss your little one during the day, but joining her after school will be that much more joyous! Just be good to you and take it slow. Good luck and happy Easter!

Christie - Fine Lines said...

Take a deep breath tomorrow morning and then plunge in. You'll be home before you know it! I hope you love the day AND love the coming home!!

Hannah- Art.Paper.Scissors.Glue! said...

Stella is adorable! I don't have any babies yet, so I can only imagine how you're feeling... just wanted to wish you Good Luck tomorrow!!

PS- Halloween is my favorite holiday, too!

Unknown said...

Hi there, just wanted to let you know that I am awarding you the Versatile Blogger Award. I hope you will feel as honored as I was in receiving it. Just come on by and pick it up whenever you get a chance.

MJ said...

I have been thinking about you this week and hoping that your transition back into the art room has been a smooth one! I also thought I'd let you know that you inspired me to start my own blog! Only 2 posts so far - but I am having so much fun that I know there will be more!

http://www.artdishwithmj.blogspot.com/

Mrs. Hahn said...

First Mothers day! Hope this was a special one for you. I hope you dear Stella was a little angel and slept all the way through the night:) Aren't you so happy to be able to called MOM?:)