Thanks

It's been a long, long while since a post and I think it's about time to begin blogging again.  Why you ask?  It's time to give a bit of thanks for what I've got. It's clique I know with Thanksgiving to have a post like this but, hey, why fight the culture current and rather just flow it.

Most of you already know this, but about a month ago I made the decision to return to the U.S. after this school year.  Brazil's treated me well.  My goal for moving here has been accomplished and I know what I really want professionally.  I really want to be an instructional coach again.  There's not a coaching job here and there are districts in Northern Illinois which are supporting them.  So, it's time to move.  It's time to find the school, the district and the place where I can be the coach I wanna be.

So, with this move, there's lots to be thankful for.  A few thankful thoughts...

I'm thankful for my parents because they taught me not to settle.  They taught me to go after my dreams and when I do.  They don't bring up the poor economy, budget cuts or my own finances in regards to a cross-continental move.  They give me hugs, share my resume and give me support.

I'm thankful for the Goo who's willing to have me live with her again in NA.  Asking to live with her was kinda a second thought.  Not because I was trying to be inconsiderate or pushy, but more that we loved living together and I couldn't imagine moving home and living anywhere else.  Thanks Sister!

I'm thankful to have great friends at home who are supporting me with networking or just sharing kind words.

I'm thankful for Ansley because when I told her the news (she's 4 by the way) she yelled, "Yes!  Yes!" and then asked if we could play Barbies when I'm home.  I guess I need to pull mine outta storage; funky hair and all.  I'm also thankful for her mom who had a similar but more age appropriate reaction when I told her.

I'm thankful for my close friends here who are present when I question what I'm doing, when I'm feeling frustrated with it all and take me out for drinks as needed.  Seems kind frequently lately.  You all know who you are.

I'm thankful to have a dear friend who met me over ice cream at Oberweis and put this idea, of moving to Brazil, in my head.  We have lots more years of fun but another 8 months together.  And I'm even more excited that tomorrow I'll get to explore Buenos Aires with her too.  Heart you AP!

Some people understand why I moved here to Brazil. Other people think I was selfish by doing so.  I don't know your stance but what I do know is that the people I love and care about, my dear friends and family, I appreciate you mucho.  Thanks for standing by me and letting me be me wherever I am.