New Job

Two weeks ago I was offered a job as Federal Programs Director at the district office in my school district. I have never had a job other than teaching in my adult life. I am excited and I am terrified. I have wanted to try another form of service to education. I am an educator. I never wanted to leave the field, but I have yearned for another direction. Well, I have it now.

Orange Beach, Alabama

I recently went to Orange Beach with my daughter, her husband, her friend and my friend. We stayed in a lovely condo and had a wonderful time. The beleaguered residents of Orange Beach put up a brave face, but they are hurting. Their precious ocean is tainted with oil, they are just recovering from Katrina and the tourists are visiting other beaches this summer. I know this is true because while the restaurants were full, we never had to wait for a table. It was beautiful as always. I have had a lifetime love affair with the Gulf Coast and it's only getting worse as I get older. I have begun to discover layers of interest there other than the beach. Last November, Chris and I discovered the local art museum where a resident artist holds glass blowing exhibitions and classes. This year, we discovered the Bon Secour River...on kayaks no less. The float was magical and I can definitely see myself spending more time exploring the river. I love my coast as so many others do, and it is my sincere prayer that the people out there working on the oil spill are imbued with wisdom for repairing the damage as much as possible.