“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” -Andre Gide

As I enter my final couple weeks of pregnancy with #3 (and final baby) and as Matthew has completed Kindergarten, I find myself reflecting on change.  (I am sure it is the hormones but roll with it:))  I have mixed emotions about everything.  For example, I am soooo excited to meet this baby and not be pregnant but of course I am naturally sad that this a closing chapter in my life. I am so happy that Matthew had an amazing year with an amazing teacher, yet I am sad that he is growing up so fast and will be a first grader next year.  When I was sitting at mass yesterday, the principal gave out goodbye gifts to the teachers who weren't returning next year and I felt sad for the change.  It is like I want to take a picture and keep the school exactly how it is now.  After I had some time to think about it, I realized that although these are natural feelings, change is a good thing!!
I thought back to my "past life:)" and realized if it wasn't for the teacher that left St. Agatha, I wouldn't have taught there.  Although living in Ohio was an experience like no other, I am so happy that I went through it.  It made me grow up in a way that I don't know if I would have staying in WA.  It was amazing for our marriage, and it made me realize so many things about myself.  It was very difficult to be away from my family and friends but I made so many friends there and it really opened the door for Chris and I to move to Spokane which is decision that I am so happy with.  Do I wish that I could hold on to my children and keep them little and close to me my whole life?  Yes, sometimes I do.  But in reality, whether I like it or not, they are growing up into little people, and I can either fight it, or embrace it and teach them to be the best people they can.  There are so many things that I loved about having a baby, but there are so many wonderful things about having my 3.5 year old come into my room in the morning already dressed and ready to go!  Change is scary, but it is wonderful when you open yourself up to what it brings in your life.  You never know what life will bring you and it is best to just enjoy the ride!!!  Here are a few pictures of the last day of school!  Happy summer everyone:)  Today we did nothing and it was AWESOME!

With his best girl Katie.  "We are going to be First Graders!"