Work to Live

I really can't complain about my job. I work incredibly easy hours, get lots of time off, and earn a decent salary. In reality, it's still a job which means there are parts to it that make life harder than I would like.

While I am paid to work from 7:20 a.m. - 2:50 p.m., the reality is that I actually get to work no later than 6:15 a.m. That means I get up at 4:45 a.m. so that I can be out of the house before 6:00. It's hard to get up that early every day.

The actual "what I do while at work," should be great. I love the teaching part. I am really, really good at creating lessons and units that make the material accessible to my students. That means that I make "boring" fun and interesting.  Unfortunately, not all kids come to school ready and willing to learn. That makes my job a whole lot harder, especially when there are 32 kids that I am expected to nudge beyond proficiency.

Some days ...

And as I said, I do make a good salary, not nearly as good as other folks with my education, but it's still good. My husband would point out that I don't work as many hours as those equally educated folks, but I guarantee that they don't spend their salaries on work supplies. My shopping cart always contains items that I need for work. I just spent twelve bucks on a bag of M&Ms for my "thank you" candy machine. 

Earn it only to give it back!

Schooling horses can often feel like an extension of my work day. Some days, my "students" are happy and eager to learn - like yesterday, but then there are the days when I wonder what the heck they're thinking. Occasionally I find myself thinking, you're changing your conduct card for that move, mister! Or, I often wish that I could pick up the phone and call his mother so that she can straighten him out.

On Wednesday, I just couldn't pull the double shift. As I was driving home, I realized that I needed a day off from the barn. I don't take days off very often, but when I do, I always return refreshed and ready to start anew. I had a great ride on Izzy on Thursday afternoon, and it was fun.

This afternoon is the start of a three-day weekend which means a few days off from work. I am also taking a day or two off from the barn since we're heading to the cabin. See you all on Tuesday!