The New Year

Happy New Year to all! I had an amazing trip home for two full weeks and discovered that a big perk to being a teacher is the extended breaks. I had a fabulous time at home and was able to see a lot of people, some who I hadn't seen in years including my best friend from high school, Stephen, who just got back from his LDS mission in Las Vegas. I was super lazy over break and caught up on 7 months of sleep. It was great seeing everyone and catching up on lost time. I realize just how special Portland is. It was funny driving down I-5 and feeling like I was on some country road. The hills and mountains were beautiful and the Christmas day snowfall was breathtaking.

I am back in Houston now and just finishing up my first week back at school. I felt a little more content coming back than I would have thought as I was leaving. I wasn't dreading it as much as I thought I would. I was really jet lagged, something, despite a lot of travel, I have never really felt before. It was terribly hard getting back into the routine of waking up really early and being awake by the time the kids came. However, today I woke up at 5:30 more ready and alert.

I am working on finding someone to take my lease over and move out. I realize that a large part of my distaste for Houston stems from my living situation. I am not happy. I don't like being surrounded by 44 other first year teachers who all have a worst story than the next person. I hope that getting away from the negativity and getting away from the awkwardness in my apartment will help me be a happier person. I am looking at several places to move-in to, all much cheaper than the apartment I am currently in, this will be a blessing!

Well, the kids are finishing up their exams, better get back to them. Much love to you all and thank you so much for spending time with me in Portland.

Robert