The future

On Friday I had a phone call from the Head of Junior School asking me what my ideas were for returning to work next year. To be honest with you, I hadn't really thought too much about it. The times I had thought about it, I felt that I had finished at Rouse Hill - the distance, the hours and that a lot of my teacher buddies had moved to different places, but I hadn't made a definite decision.

I called up James who was so supportive and said to do what I felt I wanted to do and he would back me 100%. We chatted about what I was thinking. Rouse Hill has been such a big part of my life, and has been my whole teaching career. They gave me a full time job, after the public system clearly didn't feel I was suited to it (after my interview). They supported me through tough times. They provided me the opportunity to teach on each stage - Years 3, 5 and 1. They gave me experience with autistic children, hearing impaired students, ADHD students and many more. I have great friendships with teachers on staff and really miss seeing them each day and doing life with them. However, I felt that the distance and hours are just a bit too hard for me to do. I wouldn't be getting home until around 5pm. I didn't feel I could ask Jens to look after both Daniel and Eliza and I don't want to put them into childcare.

So after talking with James I called up Lyn to chat with her and told her that I was sad to say that my time at Rouse Hill has probably come to an end. I did cry as it is such a big move. 

She was so supportive and encouraging which was such a blessing! It really helped me feel it was the right decision. She said that she stayed at home for 12 years and has absolutely no regrets. It is one of the most important jobs that anyone can do and if you are in a position to stay at home, then do it. I am excited to be with Daniel and Eliza each day. I am looking forward to seeing how they grow and continue to develop. I am keen to go on adventures with them both and encourage them each day. But I am also sad to finish teaching for the time being. I know that my identity is in Christ along, however, I need to remember that just because a lot of other people return to work, I don't have to. I can be identified as a mum, one of the best jobs in the world. I am a bit afraid of how far classrooms will develop over the next few years and that I will be starting from scratch when I do return to the classroom. Even in the time since I went on leave for Daniel things have developed in the classroom - iPads, more developments with interactive whiteboards, etc. I hope that I can pick things up quickly when I do return to work, however, I am happy to experience this time at home and know that it is such a blessing to be able to do it.