change is inevitable

"change is inevitable, but growth is purposeful"

i'll have to give credit to my principal for this line, since I am the new language arts teacher and should not be encouraging plagiarism . . . .

but how true, and it has been in my mind since his 8th grade graduation address.  actually, since he told me about his speech earlier last week.

change can sometimes be cliche, and how we deal, accept or cope with change.

but change is very real in all of our lives.  even the simple act of "graduating" preschool brings about change for Kirsten, and for me, mom.  or turning 7 and getting pierced ears, or going from 1st grade to 2nd grade, or going back to work full time, or teaching something new after 12 years . . . or change in friendships, family relationships, and marriages.  change is very real.

but when change comes, bad or good, do i always choose to grow?  do i surround myself with people who will push me to grow . . . do i choose to grow, or do i choose "self-pity", or maybe anxiousness, maybe resentment?  i'm thinking lately i have been too focused on the later.

i guess the end of this year is really making me think about the changes in my life and in the life of my family, and truly focusing on purposefully growing through these changes.

with that said, some end of the "year" photos that represent just some of the changes going on . . . (there are a lot . . . was trying to figure out how to get them all in under one post ;)

Jenny's 7th Birthday  

Aunt Julie was "guest reader" in Jenny's classroom on her 7th birthday

yes, those are Dunkin' Donuts in the shape of a 7 . . .
May for a middle school teacher is a bit active . . .  no judgments, please! ;)

ears pierced!

Jenny's princess party at her dance school

seven, really??

Kirsten's Pre-School Graduation

yup!  that's my daughter . . . the only EC pre-schooler with a halter top
dress on!  

my graduate!  so darn cute!

pretty sure this picture explains itself ;)