My Life in Paradise (Valley)

Hello all!

Oh goodness, things have been BUSY recently. There is so much to say and not much time to say it. So, you'll have to deal with the condensed soup version.

I got a job teaching in Paradise Valley at 3 elementary schools and 1 middle school. So far so good. It definitely keeps me busy.
I just moved into an apartment 2 weeks ago. It's nice being so close to where I work. Plus, it's a pretty nice place.
*Shout out to Melanie and Will for the couch- thanks again. And, of course to my mom, dad, and siblings for ALL of their WONDERFUL help in getting me moved. I don't know what I would do without you.
I went to California with Jen for the American String Teacher Association Conference. It was a long drive (Phoenix to Santa Clara, CA), and the conference was long (I went to sessions from 8-5 Thursday-Saturday). I'm so glad that Jen came with me. She is such a wonderful sister.

So, I'm just trying to transition into being a real "adult", trying to be brave, and venturing out into the real world. I'll just say that I've got a lot to learn about myself and about life. But, in the words of my wise sister Janae "It will hurt, but you are brave". Did any one else ever get to this point (out of college, first real job, out on your own) and think, "I don't want to be a grown up"?. I hope I'm not the only one. Well, I have thought that many times (and thought about many other things as well) and have realized that no matter how much I think I may want to, I can't freeze time or go back in time. I have to grow up, so I better just step it up and do it. At the same time, when I really think about it, I don't want to have to stay unable to progress or go back and experience things I've already made it through. Yeah, it may "hurt" and be scary, new, and unknown, but I hope that there are good things ahead. I just have to remember that I can do all of this "grown up stuff" and it will all be okay. I hope, at least...

"Be not weary in well-doing", right?

Thanks for your friendship and love. Hope everyone is well.