The Power of We

I've been thinking a lot about the word "we" lately. This past weekend, my brother told my parents that he might be getting laid off this week. He explained what the school district was planning and how it might impact his employment as a teacher at the high school. He told them not to worry, and explained some of the backup plans he has, in case this came to fruition.

So, after explaining all of this, what did my mom say? She said, "honey, I hope that doesn't happen, but if it does, we'll work it out." We. Two simple letters. All the strength in the world. My whole life, our family has been a "we." And even now that my brother and I are adults, we are still a "we." No matter what the ups and downs of life come my way, I will never stand alone. My parents will always be there to support me, and this is not something I take for granted. I know that I am extremely lucky to be part of this "we."

What a Picture's Worth

So, my dear friends from grad school convinced me to participate in a photo-a-day blog that consists of 30 people around the world each posting one picture a day. I was hesitant at first because I am always so nervous of not following through with the commitment. But, after some good peer pressure, I joined up, and now I am posting at Photographic State 2010. But, I also wanted to keep a separate photo blog that was all about me. Maybe it's because I'm an introvert or a fairly private person, but something about having the option to post separate pictures or to post the same pictures, but allow my family and friends to come visit and comment was very appealing to me. So, I've been keeping up with a double posting of the pictures at my own site: A Girl and her Point of View. I'm excited to see how this continues and where I take it from here.

Marching On

Wow. I can't believe March is halfway over. How did that happen? That also means that we are two and a half months into 2010! Woah!

My goal was to blog at least ten days out of each month (but really try for 15). Considering this is only my third March blog, I might not make that 10 time minimum, but I'm still not giving up. Especially because I do feel like I have just as much to type and say. In fact, March has been quite eventful. I basically started the month in Chicago for eight days, which was a great time! I saw a lot of great colleagues, but the highlight of the conference for me is always spending time with Rachel. How do I even begin to explain what my friendship with Rachel means? She is smart, funny and inspiring. She makes me smile and understands when I grumble. I sit in awe of her talent, and am encouraged to be a stronger professional when I'm around her. Not to mention, she's just a great friend! So, eight days in Chicago or any city is always well worth the quality time with Ms. Rachel. Heart her.

I also got to have lunch with Jen. She was able to drive in from her new home in Rockford for a day, so we grabbed lunch and caught up. Jen is another amazing friend, and I love that we can pick up where we left off without skipping a beat. I miss having her nearby so that we can have girl time more frequently, but again, I'll take the time I can get.

And, of course, there was the conference. It was a great one! Good programs, including my own. I felt good about the presentation that Marci and I did. And I'm excited to put in more proposals for the next round of conferences.

So, March has gone by quickly. And I'm anxious to see what the rest of the month has to offer.

Inspired

I am listening to a Jesuit talk about how we need to love our students for who they are, even when we disagree with their opinions or actions. Who knew I could be inspired working at a Catholic university. But I grow more and more in love with Jesuit education each day.

Anti-productive Therapy

I've been waiting for over 15 minutes for my therapist. At 6pm, she came out and said she'd just be a minute. Now I'm frustrated and more stressed than I was when I arrived. Isn't this counterintuitive? I think she should pay me for this session.