2008... So far

I cannot believe January is nearly over... 2008 if off and running. The last three and a half weeks have been full of new things and good news! First of all, Trevor and I have gone back to school! Trev is working on his degree in Information Technology and I am going for my graduate degree in teaching. Evenings in our house have become dedicated to research, studying and feverish writing. It's been quite a change from our usual, "What's on TV tonight?" approach to planning our free time. Last month we were frustrated with the writers' strike because none of our shows were playing... now it's a blessing 'cause we don't feel like we are missing out on anything! No worries though, we have TIVO to rely on when everything starts back up.

This year has also brought new jobs to each of us. As you all know, Trevor was working as a detention officer while we were in Arizona; then he got a position with the Sheriff's office here in North Carolina, which allowed us to move east. Although he is thankful for the experience and grateful to have had the position and stability for the past few years, his heart was just never really in it. He loves computers... always has and always will. It was time for him to get back to what he truly enjoys! He was offered a position as a consultant with an IT company based out of South Carolina and started working as a "computer guy" last week for the first time since we left California. He works in both North and South Carolina (we live only 30 miles or so from the state line) and is absolutely loving it. He comes home smiling and very chatty about his day! And, for the first time in nearly four years, we have evenings and weekends off together. No more conflicting schedules, no more missed holiday celebrations. We feel so blessed to have more time together.

(Trev has turned in his uniform and handcuffs for collared shirts and a Blackberry)

Trev's not the only one returning to what they love. Shortly after moving here, I got a job with a credit union. It was a good job, but after a few weeks I decided it just wasn't what I wanted. Now I am working with the City of Asheville in the department of Parks and Recreation. I am the director for the kindergarten and first grade after school program at one of the local elementary schools. I am having a blast working with all the kids... I have really missed them. The job is really perfect for my schedule right now. I have time in the morning to get stuff done, which allows me to spend the evenings studying. Plus, my school program requires 100 hours of field work, which I can do at the same school. It will work out really well to have a school that I am familiar with when it comes time to do my student teaching and then find a teaching position.

And on to the wonderful news I have received this year... I am going to an honorary auntie, TWICE! Two of my dearest and best friends are having babies one month apart. Amanda and Sarah, I am so excited to share in this experience with the two of you - at least as much as I can from across the country. I love you both and think of you everyday. I am hoping to be able to make a trip to San Diego in early September to see all my friends and family, and TWO beautiful new babies!!