a clean slate...

Most people seem to feel a sense of starting over or a sense of renewal on January 1st, as they ring in the new year. I have always had that feeling in August with each new school year. It's kind of a contradiction to mother nature's course of actions during this time of year. I think because of the fact that I spent almost 20 years of my life in school, each school year WAS like starting over...starting a year with new clothes, new supplies, new schedules, new fears, new teachers...a clean slate, so to speak. I have those feelings now, as another school year approaches. This will be my third year of teaching and each year I have gained a wealth of knowledge, experience and appreciation for why I chose this profession. I struggled at the beginning of my teaching career because I had so many self-doubts and feelings of inadequacy. Unfortunately it's in my nature to start ANYTHING off feeling like a completely incompetent person. It's an emotional roller coaster that I put myself through (what did I do wrong? am I doing this right? what do people think about my abilities? why can't I be like that person). However, even if it's tough at first, I always find that once I gain some experience and get a little validation, I begin to rise to every challenge with just a little bit more confidence. So with this new year, that's what I have. Confidence. It's not unwavering confidence, but it's confidence nonetheless.

SO...here's to a new year and a clean slate.

AND while we're on the topic of NEW-ness,
here's my NEW product that went into the store today:
Crimped Overlays



Talkin' Dirty Journaling Blocks



Tardy Bell kit
and JUST the paper pack



Paper Cuts No.4: Fall



OH and one more thing as I "ring in the new year." I have also started exercising again. The girls are training for various sports that they will be participating in, so I figured I should get out there with them. I'll keep you updated with my progress! Welcome to a new week!!