Happy Friday.  I'm here - glass of wine in hand listening to the Pretty In Pink (yes.... 198o whatever year that was....) soundtrack.  I thought I would write an entry.  It's been a long day and this seems to be the best way to unwind.  It's pretty loud -- the kids would think I'm a little crazy.  They are actually upstairs and outside.  Today was a whopping 42 degrees -- Dom is outside playing basketball. 

I love this CD -- a student of mine when I was teaching HS gave it to me.  I used the movie to parallel Romeo & Juliet.  He handed me the CD (without a case) one day at school.  I can only assume it was hot -- I learned early on at North Kent HS that you always had to ask those questions when you saw the kids with things.  He was going to throw the CD away if I didn't want it - so I added it to my collection. 

I do miss teaching.  And right now teaching is very heavy on my heart.  I plan to join the work force this September.  I've contemplated substitute teaching (it allows for a lot of flexibility), may-be pursuing a part-time teaching position, there is a position of Christian Education Director at our church (I’ve been told I’m wanted for that position) and there is always the notion of diversity work (although I'm unsure of how I can get income from that...).  It's stressful thinking about what to do -- I'm really feeling my age and the fact that I've been out of the working world for more than a decade.  I keep praying that God will lead me in the right direction.  I love the teaching opportunities I've been able to do on a volunteer basis.  It would be great if I could just find a way to get paid for them.....

Well, I think I've rambled long enough.  My wine glass is empty and I need to start dinner.  I can mention that my heart has been pumping great.  I have noticed that I don't feel palpitations very often.  It is so great to write that.  I thank God everyday for this second chance at life.  I won't see Dr. Kovach again until July, and then it will yearly.  Wahoo!

On that same subject, my brother Paul is going to see her Monday.  He was also born with pulmonary stenosis - although not quite as severe as me.  I hope he gains some insight on how to better care for his heart.  He'll need OHS eventually.  I'm keeping him in my prayers that he will have an open mind - he is one of the most stubborn people I know. 

Have an incredible weekend.  Laugh as much as you possibly can.  God bless, Michelle