In spring of 2007, at age 38, I lost my last JOB and my new husband of 4 months encouraged me to put down the want ads and pick up the school books in search of a CAREER.
Looking back at my work for the last five terms at community college, the thing that stands out most now is the increase in my confidence level to achieve my goals. I remember at the start I would approach each assignment with a fair amount of apprehension and then slowly make my way through the process. My fingers were figuratively crossed each time I finished a piece of work and submitted it for review. Afterwards I would find myself wishing there was more time to spend in the text, more questions to answer, and more time left to write and to share.
L to R: El Grande Cowl by Fringe, Leaf Earrings by Spotted Octopus Jewelry, Cranberry Crossover Cordoroy Tote by Camille Star
As I've progressed through each course I have learned to be more precise in what I want to convey. I've grown beyond surface statements, simple declarations with nothing to back them up, and learned to add detail and to better explain my ideas. I try to be very honest in both the written and visual work I produce and to ensure that what is in my head comes out on the page (or screen) in just the way I intend.
This Sunday is the first day of Fall. Next Monday is the first day of Fall term for me. A mixture of excitement and nervousness builds as I cross each day off my calendar and we inch toward the 22nd. I look forward to learning but I am nervous about meeting and interacting with new people.
This Sunday is the first day of Fall. Next Monday is the first day of Fall term for me. A mixture of excitement and nervousness builds as I cross each day off my calendar and we inch toward the 22nd. I look forward to learning but I am nervous about meeting and interacting with new people.
L to R: Tree Landscape Cuff by TigerLilyShop, Vintage Spectator Tassel Heels from Nerdybird Vintage, Grass by Pfeiffer Photos
I found this video clip today on YouTube (see below). It's not only a fun piece of cinematic memory and a happy song, it gave me a little boost in my spirit for these weeks to come.
Whatever you're undertaking that is new, and in this time of many folks feeling some uncertainties, I hope it brings you a smile!
My back-to-school picks are featured in the photos included in this post. These items are the quality handmade and vintage goods offered by our fellow small business owners on Etsy.com. Please click the links for more info and to view their shops--thanks so much!
"I Whistle a Happy Tune" by Rodgers & Hammerstein from The King & I - 20th Century Fox, video clip via YouTube.
copyright pfeiffer photos 2008.
17 comments:
cute shoes
kim*: yes, they are...too bad not in my size but I can still pass on their goodness to others, right? :0) ~tina
I work with a lot of returning learners in my day job as a counselor at a community college. It takes so much courage to put yourself out there and go for it. I hope you find the career you are looking for and the back to school choices were lovely!
you'll do great. :)
what a wonderful surprise to be a part of your inspiring segment! thank you so very much, tina. i'm completely honored.
i admire you for your courage and determination to gain more knowlege. just imagine the possibilities now that you have some life experience to add to this new education you are receiving! you will be ahead of the game when you graduate :)
all the best to you and your husband. i think my favorite photo in your shop is "wind farm" although all of the images are beautiful.
xo
dennice
Wishing you all A's this semester!
...on your travels...have been yet to San Miguel de Allende, in Guanajato Mexico? My most favorite spot on the Planet as yet.
Good for you! I 'm hoping to go back when my youngest is a little oder.
lenox: Thanks for your encouraging comment and for stopping by to read! ~tina
w: Thanks, I know that in my head...now if I can just convince my stomach to stop producing the butterflies! ;-) ~tina
dennice (aka fringe): You are so welcome; I really enjoyed spending some time yesterday browsing your shop. The wind farm image(s) are some of my faves also, thanks! ~tina
forkeeps: Thanks so much--I'm honor roll so far and hope to keep it that way. :-) ~tina
terri rees: We haven't been anywhere in Mexico yet but you've peeked my interest so I'll be looking up that locale online today! Thank you coming by and for the comment--your blog is one to watch on my list. ~tina
beth: Do go, you won't regret it. My friend has 5 kids (youngest is 12), and she started a nursing program at Clark Comm. Col. in WA at age 44 after a 21 year hiatus. We're in it together--it helps to have a school buddy to share the ups and downs with.
I went back to school in my 40s to earn a second degree. At times I still think, what the heck am I doing. But in the end, its the best. I love learning and as one of my friends said the other day, "hey, you're working on your third career. I've only had one."
Thanks for stopping by for a visit at ThatGirl. Here's to a great fall term!
that girl: your blog is fun! Thanks for adding a comment to mine. This schooling is the biggest thing in my life that has made me feel worthwhile and proud--wouldn't trade it for any job ('til I'm done of course!) ~tina
Thanks for your comment on my blog. Always lovely to meet new bloggers. Well done on going back to school - such a nervewracking thing. Love the shoes photo.
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