One For Me...

Boy, I have never reflected as much as I have than this year. I found this linky party that really made me think about...good ol' 2013. I am linking up with 4th Grade Frolics, which has been very inspirational. At 44, I am at a time in my life where you do start reflecting a lot. 2013 had me graduation our oldest, no travels, no real highlights. I worked on a Farm to School Grant that I am proud of...it helped so many families and connected me to my new school.

My parents moved out of our home town and with their "new" life they have not contacted our family in over 7 months. I am sure people don't understand, but it is nothing new. Blogging has helped me connect where I sometimes feel alone.  But it is what it is. I am starting to develop a relationship with my sister which has been so nice. Lose one...gain one.

 Switching schools this year...I reflect on how hard it is to connect with a new staff when everyone is so stressed out and working so hard to help our kiddos that struggle. 79% free and reduced... our teachers work so hard, with more on our platter then ever before and plc's, i/e blocks, school improvement. It is often lonely when you are a "specialist". That feeling is new to me, but it is... what it is.  It is nice to feel like you can connect with total strangers that teach what you teach and they can relate to you. Bloggers rock!

Our oldest child is now in college and so this year, sending off one of my best friends, yes, mom and friend, was so hard. I miss her and know she is doing well, but I hope I did a good job preparing her for "adult"hood. I sometimes see me in her and worry that she needs to find joy in her life and be positive.

That my friends is my One for Me. I want to make adult connections and not feel so lonely. Sounds funny maybe, but I put everything into my children, now that they are all getting older, 17, 14, 11, besides almost 19. I want to find joy in the small things, and also be more positive.

My word for 2014 then is ...relationships. I want to make sure that not only do I connect with adults, but I want my little kiddos at school to know that I am there for them, too. Relationships with colleagues would be great, and even finding time for a bit of husband and wife time, too. This February is 20 years. WOW! I have a little niece and another little niece or nephew on the way. I want to develop a relationship with them, one that my own kids didn't have with other aunts and uncles.

Thank you bloggers for making me think about goal setting and knowing that I am not alone. We all have our little baggage. Thanks for letting me share! Happy New Year!