I’m transitioning back to work. It’s a good thing, actually, and I am very excited about my new job. That got me into a bit of an awkward spot as the last school year ended.
When the news of my decision to leave my school and move on to a new school broke, a lot of people were surprised. My teammate, Jennifer wasn’t. When I walked into her room to tell her I had news, she said, “You’re leaving us, aren’t you?”. For most other people, it was rather unexpected news. One parent told me that her daughter cried because she had hoped to be in my class.
All around me, people were sad. But I wasn’t. I figured I’d cry and be sad at some point. But it never seemed to come because I was so excited about the new job.
A few weeks ago, I called to make a vet appointment for Lucy, who rarely goes to the vet. The receptionist said, “You haven’t been in for a while have you?”. Then she told me that our beloved vet, Dr. Davies, was transitioning to Seattle, where she would learn to do rehab for animals. I got weepy on the phone and finally understood how everyone at my old school felt.
I was fortunate enough to get Lucy in to see Dr. Davies for one of her last appointments in Portland. I got to say goodbye and wish her well. I told her about my new job and we talked about that excitement we were both feeling.
It probably won’t hit me until the week we really go back, when I am in a strange classroom and I am feeling overwhelmed by what I don’t know. Those first few months in anew job can be trying. I am sure I will question my decision to move. By the end of the year, I hope I will feel triumphant. For now, though, I am simply excited.
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