Riding the Struggle Bus

    As I sail through the ever-changing tides of life, there are moments when I find myself firmly planted on the struggle bus. Whether it's trying to keep up with the whirlwind pace of the school year, striving to reignite my kitchen mojo, or simply seeking that delicate balance between home and work life, the journey can often feel like a bumpy ride. As 2023 turned into 2024, it seemed like the bus was hurtling forward faster than ever before, leaving me scrambling to catch up.

    In the midst of this chaos, I also find myself grappling with personal challenges, such as rediscovering my kitchen mojo. Whether it's experimenting with new recipes, honing my culinary skills, or simply finding the time and energy to cook amidst my busy schedule, the kitchen can often feel like a battleground. Yet, it's in these moments of struggle that I often discover my greatest strengths and resilience.

    Finding balance between home and work life has become an increasingly elusive goal as the days whizz by. With demands from both ends pulling me in opposite directions, it's become imperative to carve out moments of tranquility amidst the chaos. Whether it's taking a leisurely stroll in nature, indulging in a favorite hobby, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, finding that delicate balance is a paramount priority.

    Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, I also find solace in simpler pursuits, such as raising chickens and reading more books. There's something inherently therapeutic about tending to a flock of feathered friends or losing myself in the pages of a captivating story. In these moments, I find respite from the trials and tribulations of everyday life, reconnecting with the simple joys that bring meaning and fulfillment.

    So, as I continue to ride the struggle bus through life's twists and turns, let me remember that it's not the destination that defines me, but rather the journey itself. In the face of adversity, let me draw strength from my resilience, courage from my struggles, and hope from my dreams. And remember, even on the roughest roads, there's always beauty to be found if I'm willing to look for it.

New additions to the flock!

Alex and his entourage of hens.

Spring break reading.

New Beginnings

Goodbye 2023, and hello 2024! It's surreal to think that four years have passed since I embarked on my student teaching journey at Hoffmann Elementary. Third grade – that was the sweet spot. I remember the joy of connecting with my students, the thrill of helping them learn and grow. Fast forward to March 2020, and the world as we knew it unraveled. Virtual teaching became the new norm, and sadly, I never had the chance to say a proper goodbye to those kiddos.

So much has changed since then. In the face of the pandemic, people came together, united against the common enemy that was Covid-19. Neighbors supported one another, and there was a tangible sense of kindness and solidarity. But here we are today, and it feels like that sense of unity has faded away. The world appears more divided than ever, and I can't help but feel a deep sense of loss.

I find myself questioning the purpose behind the choices I've made. Why did I start blogging back in 2008? What was the driving force, the spark that led me to share my thoughts and experiences with the world? As I reflect on these questions, I'm confronted with the realization that perhaps, over the years, I've lost sight of that initial purpose. It's disheartening to witness the current state of affairs and wonder where we went wrong.

As we step into 2024, I yearn for a return to the sense of togetherness that once defined us. I hope to rediscover the purpose that fueled my passion for blogging in the first place, and in doing so, contribute to rebuilding the connections we seem to have lost along the way. Here's to hoping for a brighter and more united future in the year ahead.