My first blog

Well...this is my first blog of sorts.  I have blogged before but never really stuck to it, so maybe this will be different.  My teacher friend, Auburnchick, blogs and she talked me into this venture.  So here goes....
I am a first year teacher (sort of) and the interesting thing about that is that I am not a recent college graduate, nor am I one of those young, fresh out of college, starry eyed teachers who know little about the world.  I graduated from college in 1980 with a degree in Social Sciences including a double minor in Psychology and Sociology.  I had originally intended to become a teacher, then, half way through college,  I decided I wanted to be a family counselor, thus the degree in Social Sciences, etc.   Life can be funny and it had a way of taking me in other directions.  I did enter the working world after college as a state worker in the Food Stamp Office.  A friend lured me away from that promising career by asking me to teach at his school!  I took that job offer, and with a (3 year) temporary teaching certificate from the state of FL, I began teaching Special Education - Emotionally Handicapped in 1982.  The first year I taught at a middle school and had 13 students in a self contained classroom - mostly boys.  I had success with the class in that I was able to teach all subjects according to individual education plans for each student and I had excellent rapport with the kids, many of whom had severe emotional and behavioral issues, as well as learning disabilities.  The second year I taught at an elementary school and it was tough to see the kids I taught, from grades 3-6, with so many problems.  I just didn't feel prepared for facing the emotions these issues stirred in me and after the second year, I decided not to continue.  I had 3 young children of my own and was a single parent as well, so I wanted to maintain my emotional well being for my children's sake.  I eventually went into sales and customer service where I remained until earlier this year.  As a natural writer, I did take a stab at newspaper feature writing and column writing for 4 years and was very happy in that choice.  However, in 2009 I decided to pursue my teaching certificate once again, passed the program with straight A's, took and passed the state exams and began searching for a teaching position.  The school I am teaching at is a private school, the kids are great (which for my age is a blessing!) and I couldn't be happier.  So......I am now blogging about the world of teaching for a five time grandmother!  I hope I give you some laughs, some smiles and the feeling that it is never too late to follow your dreams!  Happy Tales!