Sometimes There’s a Struggle

It’s my second week back to work. Kiddos start in the classroom tomorrow and Friday, and then the entire class is in school in full force starting Monday. It’s been busy and stressful getting through both last week and this week, but I’m learning to give myself grace and kindness. I’m a substitute, not a full time teacher, and I cannot be expected to do more than my best.

I am grateful for this learning opportunity, though it has been overwhelming. I need to remember that I cannot do everything all at once. And it’s okay if I get shit wrong.

Yesterday was a bad day. I was overwhelmed and stressed and wondered if maybe teaching just wasn’t good for me? And that may yet be a truth I have to wrestle with, but it’s not something I can resolve or figure out right now. So I’m choosing to let that go.

What matters is that I’m filling a need. And that is enough right now.

I’m also still going strong on my sequel! I’ve officially decided on the title: A Shift of Crimson. I’m very excited! Rough draft is still in progress, but I feel confident that I can keep to my new goal for finishing it. And in no time at all, it’s going to be winter break and I’ll be able to get the rough draft revised and sent out to my beta readers. Revisions never take as long as the drafting process, especially once you get through one round of revisions.

I just might meet my June publication date after all!

I was hoping to get a booth for the Portland Book Festival this year, but that didn’t happen. I am, however, getting items ready, designed, and ordered so that I’m ready for my next book signing. Especially as we near the holidays, I’m going to planning some exciting events!

Hope you are all doing well! I’m sending lots of love!