2 pictures and a potted plant

At 1:35 yesterday, I walked out the doors of A.G. Rhodes Nursing Home carrying a radio, 2 jackets, 5 books, 2 pictures and a potted plant. My last work day.........How bazaar it felt to leave that building after 3.5 years of working there.

A co-worker asked me that morning if I was excited to be on my last work day...And I truthfully said yes. This has been a good job, but I'm ready to move on..........And even though I walked out of the building carrying a relatively small bundle of "stuff", in reality, I carried away much more. More patience, more compassion, more restraint when dealing with difficult people, and more confidence that I'm leaving a job well done, than I've ever had before. It was hard walking away from my residents, but I think they'll be well cared for by my replacement, and Amelia and I will enjoy going back to visit.

My plan is to take 6 months or so to bond, play, adjust to being a mom, and most importantly, have Amelia adjust to being our daughter. Then I have a feeling that I'll be looking for something part time. I've never been a mom before, and don't know how that will change things, but I can tell you that I have worked full time, part time, and not at all, and the schedule that really makes me feel most energized (at least in my childless state) has been a part time schedule of 3 days per week.

For now though, I'm thrilled to have a break.

Now if I can kick this killer cold before leaving for China!

One week and counting.......................