Writing a new chapter

I heard a professor in graduate school say that there are two keys to being a good writer.  First you have to set aside time to write something every day.  Whether it's an ongoing project or a one time piece, becoming a writer requires writing daily.  Second you have to be well read.  Knowing the qualities, attributes and nuances of a wide range of literature will inform your style and content.  I'm not a writer but I am a reader, and I'm working on becoming more well read.  I tend to stick to genres, authors and titles that I've read before.  I re-read a lot!!  My friend Kelly Wiggains was a high school English teacher before having children and being able to stay home with them.  She recently started a blog about her experiences as a reader and a mom.  I've only been reading for a couple of weeks but I've already learned so much from her.  If you're a reader and are looking for great book reviews and a wide range of literature recommendations, I would highly recommend her blog.

The new chapter I'm writing is not a literal chapter, although given this forum, perhaps it's a little more literal than the figurative meaning I had when I chose this title.  I've closed the chapter in my life that included being a reading specialist for my recent district.  When I left for the last time yesterday, I had an overwhelming feeling of closure.  It's was kind of a movie moment.  You've had those haven't you?  That moment where you can hear the background music, see the lighting change and you're able to step outside of yourself to observe the scene.  I stood alone in the doorway of what was my classroom and looked around.  I had run out of things to do.  I'd finished packing, cleaning, and delivering those last few items and it was time to go.  I was ready.  I didn't cry, I was ready for the closure and the turning of a page.

On Friday, I said good bye to my co-workers and received well-wishes for my upcoming adventures and endeavors.  The first grade team gave me the plaque that's below.  It's a beautiful chocolate brown color and will find a place in my home where it's seen and enjoyed.  

I believe everyone that we encounter leaves an imprint on our lives.  I don't think any relationship is a wasted relationship.  I think we can learn something about ourselves and others from every one that we meet.  I have learned lots of things, both good and bad about people and about myself from my time there.  I've gained career experience that is invaluable and am grateful for that.  Over the next few weeks I will send notes and letters various co-workers and colleagues.  It's easier to express my thoughts, feelings and gratitude on paper than it is in a conversation where I'm trying to control my tears.

I'm ready for my next adventure.  I told a good friend recently that I've grown incredibly unhappy in my life.  I used to gain joy from things that no longer hold that joy for me.  I used to enjoy cooking...now it's a chore.  I used to enjoy scrapbooking...now it's a hobby that takes up space.  I used to enjoy decorating my home...now it's just another task.  I have allowed the stress and tension of my job to overtake my life and my unhappiness there has translated into unhappiness everywhere.  I'm reclaiming my happiness.  I'm going to renew old hobbies or find new ones.  I'm going to read for pleasure and become a more well-read person with my book choices.  In order to do those things, I need to organize my life and my home.  

I moved my classroom home, which if you've ever taught for any length of time, you know that's no small feat.   There are a couple of pictures here to show you what my guest room currently looks like.  There's just enough walk space to get to the twin bed.  The only two items that didn't make it into my house are my mini-fridge and microwave that are now at my dad's office.  Until I know exactly where I'll be next year, my stuff will just hang out in my guest room.  If you come to stay with me I promise you'll not have to crawl over boxes to have a place to sleep.  

My next chapter will include happiness, adventure and organization.  I'm going to continue becoming a writer and I hope you'll continue to journey with me.