A few days ago I ran into a friend who asked me “when are you going to post again?”
I guess I hadn’t considered it.
However, through our conversation I was reminded that I left you all high & dry.
I kinda left the last post as a big teaser – waiting for the sequel possibly?
So here it goes…
In the last 5 months a lot has happened here:
My new job as the Executive Director of KAIMH (Kansas Association for Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health) Trying to figure out how to answer the business phone… “Goodmorningthankyouforcallingthekansasassociationforearlychildhoodmental
healththisisshanahowmayihelpyou?” Nah. “ThanksforcallingKAIMHthisisShana” Yeah.
Obviously a huge part of my job is trying to figure out important things like that.
It’s been tough. I’m not good at professional change. I tend to get too deep into my head – “am I doing a good job?” “does my board think I’m doing a good job?” “does my board like me?” blah, blah, blah. The truth be told, none of that matters. What matters is whether families and children across the state of Kansas are getting what they need. If not, what can I do to help get them the services they need? Beyond that, the rest is just a crap shoot.
Since July the family has grown – even more. I now am a parent of a high-schooler and a middle-schooler. It seems impossible that someone as young as me could accomplish such a feat – but it happened. I’m old.
Since July I’ve turned another year older. I’ve run two more half-marathons – one was great, one was blah. Still haven’t broken 2 hrs. Still haven’t followed any kind of training plan. Still am amazed that I run the same pace each race without training. Hmmmm…
Since July I’ve met a TON of fantastic people across the state that make me miss my old job more than I thought was possible.
Since July I’ve met a TON of inspiring people across the state who are doing more than I ever thought was possible.
Since July I’ve had three friends diagnosed with cancer.
Since July I’ve had two friends beat cancer and finish all medications associated with it.
Since July I’ve attended cross-country meets, swim meets, choir concerts, musicals, drove to countless practices and volunteering opportunities.
Since July I’ve sat on the couch watching movies & football with my family, played countless games of UNO, and slept with my children when daddy is gone.
Since July I’ve watched one friend move to another country and one friend move home.
Since July I’ve been on one date – the most spectacular date EVER!!
Since July I’ve laughed incredibly hard & cried just as hard. I’ve doubted every ounce of my purpose in my new position and have been confirmed in my new position. I’ve longed for the service I used to provide to families in Harvey county and I’ve been freed from having to ‘work’ while grocery shopping. I’ve continued to strengthen my spirit and I’ve gone to church a handful of times. I’ve gone on a girls’ trip and I’ve missed out on others. I’ve partied with friends and I’ve discontinued relationships.
Just like with you, a lot has happened in 5 months.
