Oh, The Places I Might Go

Right now, I am typing while listening to the baby talk to himself in the crib. He has been chatting it up the last few days; he has a lot to say. Quite a few 'mamas" here and there. I don't know that it is directed at me, but let's just say it is.

Well, I am actually NOT going to write about the boys today (sorry Grandmas)-I am giving myself an entry to share some of the fun work that I am learning and opportunities that are on the horizon.

The Chorale work has been really fun. The first board retreat was exciting to me, getting to see how the operations work. In fact, my opinion was taken on a few issues, so that really built up my confidence. They know I am learning the ropes and they are helpful, but they expect the work to be done. I like it. So, now I get to write and present my very first board report on Monday! Since the concert is coming up in March, I am doing several phone calls, emails and confirming contracts which is easy. The musical director will be giving me more directive on Monday about going out to visit venues, make contacts with the staff and find a great place for the chorale to perform in. It is really enjoyable work.

The grant writing is more sporadic; however I do like writing and I've been successful with all of the grants I've written so far. We are working on becoming a non-profit organization to be able to hold summer music festivals in Prescott. If this actually gets off the ground, I would work the administrative part of the actual festival, plus find and write the grants. While it hasn't earned me enough money to truly boost our income, it is really terrific experience.

Finally, I applied for an unpaid internship with the Arizona Commission on the Arts. They have a few openings and I applied for the Local Arts Development program. It involves reviewing grants, maintaining databases, organizing some state museum work, and doing some research. It is not directly in the arts education department, but that is not available until the summer. Anyway, I have the time to do it and they do say that many of the program interns go on to paying jobs with the Commission or other arts organizations. If it doesn't come to pass, the performing arts director will refer to another arts organization looking for an intern as well.

So, I think this is becoming the way to go. If the doors continue to open like they have been, I'll consider it a sign that I am heading in a good direction. My husband is so supportive, regardless of our meager income, he continually encourages me to find the work that I enjoy. He would be much happier if I was making more money, I'm sure, but this year has been about making the most of new opportunities for me. If I can translate that into a career, I'll do it.

The schools are now starting to ask about what teachers are planning to do for the next school year...are we returning or leaving, what positions are we interested in, etc. I had to complete a survey on it with my name, so they could get ideas. Honestly, teaching two days a week has been delightful, even teaching PE. I don't mind not having a classroom. I teach kindergarten plus a special education class. I don't miss the grind. I feel happier about going in. But, I know that if something else presented itself, I could easily subtract the teaching.

Should I work part time next year? Probably not. I love the chorale job, which is really much more difficult with a full time job. Love the grant writing, but it's hit or miss moneywise. And being home for the boys is something I will never regret. Teaching is a sure bet and it will be probably always be there, considering the desperate need for teachers. All I can say is we'll see.

I have to thank all the people who support me in my endeavors, who tell me to try and see, who kindly give me compliments on my successes and encourage my writing. That is the only way I have the courage and confidence to move along. So thank you.