I don’t know about other professions, but there comes a time in the teaching year where being at school is the last place you want to be. The time that I have spent outside of the world of teaching was not really all that great. I struggled to find any kind of fulfillment in the work that I was doing. The one thing that I did appreciate was some of the people that I met during what I call my lost years.

First world problems, right? Luckily, I found my way back to where it is that I belong, a high school English classroom. With that being said, even when you are doing something that you enjoy, you still need a break. You need time to unwind, take your mind off of work, and just stop to appreciate all of the blessings that you have.

Wanting a break does not necessarily mean that I hate my job. I don’t. I love my job. Even though I enjoy what I do, I can still need a break. We have been cooped up inside. We have worked through semester one and we are half way through semester two. Most major holidays are over. There is really only one thing that we can look to, to bring that reprieve and that is spring break. That week is the saving grace for teachers and students. We have become grouchy, short tempered, and tired. Things that usually do not bother us start driving us crazy. It is in the best interest for all involved to get out of the school and into whatever setting brings peace to your life.

This break does not have to mean that a ton of money is spent on some far away tropical destination. It can be a day trip to a museum. It can be a lunch date with some friends. It can even be what I like to call a trip to Couchafornia. And yes, it can be a short vacation to whatever place you wish to go to recharge. All I know is the break is necessary for the sanity of all.

How am I going to spend my break this year? I’m glad you asked. My plan is to do some home improvement. A little painting and removal of carpet. You may be thinking that this activity does not sound relaxing at all and you would be correct. This is where a trip to one of my favorite places with one of my favorite people happens. I will be going to two St. Louis Cardinal games with my baseball partner in crime, Annie. We love Ballpark Village and all that it entails.

You might think that sports are not relaxing to watch. You are wrong, but that’s okay(lol). If I had the money and could go anywhere, I would take a trip to Golden, Colorado. I love everything about being near the Rockies. My mom’s family is from there and I was born in Colorado so it holds a special place in my heart. It is my favorite place with the exception of maybe Disney World, Great Britain, Ireland, Paris, or Tuscany/Rome. The last few are bucket list destinations. Maybe I will plan a trip like that for the future, but for now I will be satisfied being local. Even though I will not be traveling very far, I won’t be grading papers, so that’s a win.

To bring this around to the beginning of this post, Everyone needs to take a break from their job; even if you enjoy your job like I do. There is nothing wrong with scheduling a little time away from your everyday setting. Whether it be Couchafornia, Europe, or somewhere a few hours away, enjoy your time. Make memories. After all, you only live once.

Until next time,

Cat