Light at the end of the school year tunnel...

Unbelievably, we are in full swing of the last Term of school.

This year has gone so fast, and yet I feel like it has been ages since I was frantically planning my classes on the deck of Hekerua Lodge, awaiting the first days of school.

Even though its only been 8 short months, I feel like I have already learned so much and gotten to know myself as a teacher. It makes me even that much more excited for next year - knowing the kids, knowing the school and staff - it makes it all that much easier for me to just enjoy the teaching part of the job.

There's so much for me to learn about myself in this profession, which is a very healthy feeling. I like the challenge - I know that doing well at this job, whether its for 5 years or 25 years, will take me down paths I never could have expected.

Will I be a teacher for the rest of my life? Who knows. As much as I love it, I can't predict whether I will still be in the same professional state of mind in the years to come.

Lately, I have been thinking about how much I would love to go back to school. I am a student at heart, which is maybe why I love being a teacher so much. The thought of working toward a doctorate makes my heart race with excitement and motivation.

I look forward to seeing Adam go back as well and have the opportunity to go out and easily get the job that he really wants. The difference in our professions is that in his going back to school, the money he could make will easily repay any tuition. In my case, even with a Doctorate, I'll probably still be making student loan payments! Music may not be where the money's at - nor education - but I can't imagine doing anything else.

On a less introspective note, I have included some photos from our school's cross country day! All of the students are required to participate in some way - which can include taking part in the "fun run" where they get dressed up and "run" the track. I was the MC, which included sitting in the shade and taking requests from passing students. A hard job, I know, but someone had to do it. Adam was the official photographer of the event, and our friend Jennie had the pleasure of getting 15 Year 9 boys (8th graders) out of a tree along the track!

Until next time, be well and stay in touch.

Sarah