Logistics

When we were still deciding whether or not to move to Maui, the thing I struggled with most was the uncertainty.  Are we going, are we not? Do I need to change my wardrobe? Do I need to sell my furniture? Do I, do I, do I...

Now that the answer is certain, I'm a lot calmer.  Yes, there is a lot to be done, but the knowledge that I need to do it is very soothing to me.  Still, the sheer number of logistics to be dealt with is stunning.  Below, I have listed my current to-do list with regards to moving.  Over the next few weeks, I'll do (and link to) individual posts on each as I work to complete them.

1. The cats -- rabies shots, microchipping, and rabies titers are required for all animals entering Hawaii.
2. The clothes -- get rid of excessive winter clothes, bulk up summer attire, make sure it all fits.
3. The furniture -- Sell it or move it?
4. The car -- Sell it or move it?
5. The housing -- when do I lose my current apartment, where are we living in Hawaii?
6. The job -- still finalizing a position there, and need to make another trip down for that purpose.

So, on top of my full-time teaching and very busy softball coaching schedule, I'm going to need to be very busy this term!  Hopefully this blog will help provide some motivation in that regard.  I can hear the ticking of a clock in the background...

Announcement

Today, I made the official announcement at school that I would not be returning next year.  I started with my advisees, but by the end of the day, word had spread.

This has been one of the most difficult aspects of packing up and leaving for me.  By definition, doing my job well requires forming attachments with my students.  The better I do my job, the stronger these attachments are.  Well, that group of advisees has some pretty strong attachments.  The seniors were okay; after all, they're leaving this year, too.  The freshmen have barely had a chance to get to know me.  But the sophomores and juniors?  These are girls I've seen through thick and thin, in good times and in bad.  Of the three, two walked out without speaking to me.  That was rough.

However, I have to remind myself: this is part of doing my job well.  I don't plan to do my job poorly just so I can leave more easily.  Nor will it be any easier in a year or two; those sophomores may be seniors then, but I will have grown attached to an entirely new set of girls, a whole new set of problems to solve and stories to listen to.  To stay strong, I remind myself of the new challenges awaiting me: new kids without the resources these kids have, kids I can help even more.

A sobering reminder that even when moving to paradise, moving is still moving, and leaving is still leaving.

n. ma·li·hi·ni Hawaii

A newcomer to Hawaii.