To make this residency happen, home is now as structured as I can get with little people- daily assigned task, meal plans, car pool coordination, etc. Home is set to ensure task are done to allow for optimal down time as a family. So far, it's working. Yes, there is some monitor and adjust, it's not so regimented that you can't breathe, but its keeping everyone on track (most of the time!). This order, gives me peace of mind and lets me focus on soaking up all I can during this switch site time. I am trying very hard to keep a work/home balance and give myself that time to enjoy my family and friends. Being able to see how another administrator seeks that balance, gives me ideas and reassurance that it can be done, and done well.
Coming into someone else's world, one that functions very differently than I, I am getting the opportunity to see their train of thought, self talk, and schema for attacking the day. When hit out of the gate with an event that caused major hiccups in daily functioning, I am being able to experience the good, bad, and ugly. Having been through a similar experience at a previous school, I know the hardship it places on others. Watching how she has addressed the need for others to pick up various job task, her methods of communication with students, staff, and community, have all helped me truly see her sense of leadership. It's moments when things appear the darkest, that the true strength and character are revealed.
Having begun my journey in this building, I go home daily reflecting on what I am learning and what I am being able to offer others. I am focusing on entering each day with an open mind and heart so that I may absorb all that is around me. And I am loving every minute of it.
