It's been close to seven months that I've had the privilege to live in the beautiful Green Mountain State. I've loved exploring the trails, the city, and the small town general stores Corey makes me go in every time we travel. Vermont has so many wonderful things tooffer. My commute has completely changed from the beltway blues to a pituresque view of the sun rising over Mt. Mansfield and Camels Hump and setting over the Adirondack's and Lake Champlain. As the weather warms up, I look forward to riding my bike or walking into work. This winter, despite it's epic lack of snow, still managed to be adventurous. With spikes on our feet, Corey, Denise, and I all hiked Camels Hump. I've never hiked so much in the snow as I did this year. For those of you who haven't, you should! It's so quiet and peaceful. A completely different experience than hiking in the warmer months. Getting to the top of the mountain was like walking into a post card. Heavy snow fell on the pines and you could see animal tracks all over the place. The weather was cold. Maybe 20 degrees? But we were layered well and as long as we kept moving we were warm. As we made the ascent, the wind picked up at got fierce. Corey's beard was frozen and we certainly were moving slower. Once we reached the top, we could only stay a few moments. The wind was so strong, you had to lean into it our you would certainly loose your balance. It was this hike that made me realize how much I love it here!
Despite all the fun outdoor exploration, I've certainly had challenges adjusting to this new chapter. Starting a new job is always challenging and takes time getting to know your co-workers and the ins-and-outs of the job. I've had some of the most challenging students in my teaching carear and often go home emotional exhausted. Grad school continues to weigh on my mind and I want so badly to find a program that interests me. Outside of the professional life, making new friends is challenging. I've had the same group of friends since I was in elementary school so this is new territory. There are certainly days that feel a little lonely but I'm learning to expand outside my comfort zone and be a little more outgoing. I remind myself it's a new opportunity to grow.
Corey and I recently retired the Ole' cable box and I must say I've only missed it once in the past month. I feel like my mind is more relaxed and my bodies slowed down to enjoy things like reading, listening to music, and just being together with Corey. We no longer put off cooking dinner but look forward to finding new recipe's (most likely off Pinterest) to cook together. I'm also hoping to get into a beginner sewing class and start using my grandmother's old sewing machine.
We've had one week of 80 degree weather and it's back into the 30's. It was just enough to rejuvenate us until spring officially arrives. Until then, it's mittens and winter jacket.
With all the challenges and obstacles that I'm hurdling over, I find myself enjoying my new chapter. I hope that this post find you enjoying your chapters as well.
