So, last year I did a long-term subsitute postition for Middle School and High School. It was interesting and stimulating to say the least. I did not apply for that job but did apply for a couple of others this summer. Was unsuccessful - which turned out to be good. A dear friend wanted me to be her long term sub for her maternity leave and I said I would.
I began my summer being a super gardener. Things were going well, but it was a heavy tick year. I ended up with 4 ticks - 2 being deer ticks and called it quits even though I had covered up and sprayed. It sounds like they can float on the wind. My garden is a weed pit now and I need to spray up and see what actually made it past my neglect. Each time I got a tick bite, the area would redden and swell and the last time half my windpipe swelled also. I haven't gotten a tick bite in years and was afraid that I was getting an allergy to the saliva. My next step may be to see an allergist or wear my bee suit and boots when I garden. It has been a wet year and that is part of it.
The rest of my summer started out ok. We went fishing and enjoyed the days when it wasn't raining again. I began to work on linoleum prints. I even have a fish in my freezer to print. I began to have a health issue and went to the doctor. My physical turned out well except for the one issue. I was diagnosed with endometral cancer. It was not something that I had heard about to even watch for. Leading up to the surgery, it was nerve-wracking with the not knowing. After the surgery, it was what does the future hold? Will it come back. I think of those that have gone through much worse and are suffering from various things for years. I know we never know when we will go and could be hit by a car before I would have died of natural causes.
I cancelled my friend's long term sub position, because teaching art requires stamina and I didn't know if I would have it by then. I am sitting here, not knowing where I should go from here. This is my 13th year as a Substitute Teacher and it has been a good job around family issues, my appointments, surgery and recovery. I am ready for something else - maybe less stressful if at all possible. I have a friend that wants me to work for her son. My sister has an opportunity for me also. I am just beginning to look.
So, I feel like I am standing on a mountaintop. I survey different paths and opportunities. I am not sure what my future holds and where I will be going after this. It has made me value life and how fast everything can change. I don't want to waste away what is left - whether it is only a few years or if it is 30 years. It is being immersed in life - family, friends, others.
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