Well, it's all kicking off now!

Good evening Celebrators! It's been a while: I've been very busy at school doing what teachers do best -panicking, teaching and fretting- but the toughest part of the academic year is now over and it's a new phase...

It's a funny saying 'toughest part of the year'. When you're in amongst the weeds it can certainly seem like the biggest challenge you've ever faced! As a full-time educator, I've lost count of the times I've told someone it's 'the toughest part of the year.

In schools, September is tough because there's a plethora of new initiatives to be managed along with stall-setting with new class groups and not to mention the reflection related to prior performance. Then after Christmas, we become intensely focused on assessment, on getting students to the end of GCSE study and of course, all the other things we were working on in the previous term.

Then Easter arrives and we think it'll ease up a little, but things ramp up while older students move on and new ones move in, however, at this time of year your powers of reflection and self criticism are really pulled into question as you re-evaluate and revamp learning plans and resources.

So, why on a website about Celebrancy, am I blathering on about school? Truthfully? I'm not really sure but I'll no doubt find my golden thread shortly!

I think I'm letting you know that I understand how... Relentless, life can be sometimes. If we're not dealing with work issues, something at home will no doubt throw a spanner in the works. We're all under so much pressure these days.

Just yesterday, my Mother - in - Law told me I do things too fast. I was a bit perplexed, I'll admit... But she said she thinks that I move too quickly and my brain and body don't work together! Take from that what you will!

I thought about it, and I came to the conclusion that I think she's right. And I think I know why.

We bounce from one hectic moment to another, from one tough part of our year to another and we don't give ourselves the time to breathe between these events. At school, my day to day is actually hour by hour and moves from different floors and rooms in each. If I relax at work, I'm doing something wrong! All this takes its toll. They take their toll.

I think my golden thread is working loose here!

My point is, life is tough... Your interpretation of what's tough for you probably doesn't look the same as the person next to you. We all experience life and it's challenges in very unique ways and it's just plain old reality that some of us will struggle through it, some will ask for help and some appear to cope well. But make no mistake, it can be tough.

As I wind down to my closing sentences, I leave you with these thoughts: if you're struggling, raise your hand and ask for help. We all get ridiculously busy and heavily burdened. It's just part of life.

But don't forget, we are lucky to be breathing another lungful of air, so don't take anything for granted. It.s tough.. but it's worth it.

Love You Lots

K