Back To Fall Routine

On Tues. after our Labour Day Long Weekend, (one last kick at summer!) most people who are involved in any aspect of school, return after a two month break. For 26 years, I went in for the last week in August to prepare the room and work for the kids I taught in Gr. 3.

This is just the second year I won't be doing that and it only feels a little weird.

I've decided not to go back but to stay on extended full-time medical leave. My health still needs my full-time attention. I hope to branch out and increase my physical activity for optimum heart health and strive to keep my blood sugar levels better than they have been. This Friday, I also have to get a tube put in one ear in which I have had little hearing since March! It has driven me absolutely crazy feeling like it's full of water for that long!

I plan to maintain my membership in two choirs and volunteer to help in a Gr. 3 classroom again. This doesn't sound like much to healthy robust people with normal energy levels, but it's enough for me. I have a lot on the rest of my plate.

I realise now, that I can not handle teaching school and all that goes with it and this is good. I don't lament not going back but actually feel relief. There is a group of retired teachers that I will join tomorrow for the annual first day of school, "To Hell With The Bell!" coffee. We shall toast the years we taught and those who still do, and look forward to new adventures and undertakings for 2007-2008 school year.