August Reflections

School officially begins August 26; yet, in many ways, I am back to work. I’ve been telling people, “I’ve turned the corner.” Last weekend, while painting the front door, I was consciously aware that the paint brushes and other house projects will sit for awhile. Time to start preparing in earnest for upcoming classes and new responsibilities—and that’s okay.

August is a mixed month for me. I think others share this sentiment as well. The weather is still very much summer and many are still in summer mode, not starting school until after Labor Day. But for many teachers, August marks the end of summer and a transitioning back to work.

Some summers have been particularly busy and the start of school brings a fair bit of stress and anxiety. This summer, however, I begin a new school year with anticipation and renewed enthusiasm. I am grateful. I have come to accept (and appreciate) that whatever my circumstances, the rhythms of work and rest are God-ordained. I wouldn’t want perpetual summer. Work is meaningful and I am thankful that I enjoy what I do.

I say all this in light of the fact that my fall will be particularly busy. I am teaching four classes and coaching girls’ cross country. Half of my teaching load is brand new and I haven’t coached “officially” in almost twenty years! One Stony Brook tradition that is meaningful to many in our community is for the Head of School to choose a theme verse for the year. This year Ephesians 3:20 will be our guiding verse. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” I have also chosen a theme verse for myself that I am committing to memory. “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.” (Isaiah 26: 3-4) Power and Peace—two words that we don’t often link. I can’t even fathom “perfect peace.” But I want to seek God earnestly and believe that he can and will do more than I could ever hope or dream. And I want to experience the kind of peace that penetrates deep—even when I feel my circumstances are more than I can handle.

I referenced “turning the corner” earlier, so bear with me while I really “turn the corner” in this post. I am holding my blog posting loosely this fall. I know my summer posting has been sporadic, but, in all honesty, I don’t know how often I will post. I have some ideas about ways I can still keep my readers checking out Always Orange, but rather than share them here and then fail miserably, I hope you will keep checking back from time-to-time, knowing that I will return eventually.

One more thing—fall fashion. My mom sent me a link to StyleBlueprint, a Nashville blog that we both enjoy following, and the latest post features the top eight fall fashion trends. If you don’t already know, I love finding out what the latest looks will be for any particular season! Two of the eight looks seem pretty doable for me both financially and realistically. Round Sunnies (sunglasses) strike me as a playful, fashionable, and inexpensive way to add a trend to my wardrobe. Target, I am trusting you will stock multiple colors of these! Second, a new handbag in “limon” (yellow with a hint of green) or hunter green sounds like a doable trend as well. Again, Target, I am counting on you to provide me with some options. I have read in multiple places that incorporating accessories into your wardrobe is the easiest, and least expensive, way to go. (photo courtesy of StyleBlueprint)