Musings of a Badlands Ranch Wife

This one is for all my fellow teachers and parents…

It’s here people- summer break. Not sure how this year went for all of you, but I feel like this year whipped by me and I have been running to catch up- which reminds me of airports. I know- where the heck is she going with this? Bear with me…This spring found me on both sides of the country- west to Orcas Island, Washington, east to Washington DC with 21 juniors and seniors, and then to Philadelphia. This means multiple airports with multiple connecting flights. Just once when I fly, I would love to arrive and depart from the same terminal… but alas, that is just a dream. Thank the airport gods for supplying moving walkways. It is these moving walkways that really have me thinking- why am I always on the left and cruising along, worrying about my next gate, while passing the people who stay on the right and rest their weary legs and take it all in? What is the hurry? Yes, there are times when sprinting from one gate to the next is necessary- but let’s be honest- do we really need to be there in time to stand in line forever waiting to board the plane? Yup, you travelers know what I am talking about. But that is me- always in a hurry, charging forward, forgetting to slow down, getting frustrated with those who stand on the left (how dare they) and be present. That is how this school year felt for me- staying to the left, cruising along, focusing on what is coming ahead, and forgetting to enjoy the ride. So, my goal this summer is the three R’s- rest in June, rejuvenate in July, and refocus in August. I am going to stay to the right, slow down, rest my wild soul, enjoy the ride, and learn how to be better at being in the present. Join me. Life is just too short to be otherwise…