Days 216-226: Big News!

After a bit of a hiatus from writing, we have some big news to share! Drumroll please...

We have moved!

After going through a process of examining our wants and needs, Alex and I decided to throw caution to the wind and move during this crazy time. We are so incredibly happy with our new house.

THe house itself is gorgeous with plenty of room for us and our pup to feel like we have room to move around while also being a manageable size. There is so much natural light, even on the grey and stormy days! We also have the delightful benefit of having a spacious backyard that opens onto a 5K walking trail with no vehicle traffic.

It already feels like such a breath of fresh air.

We spent the first night ordering as many fun dishes as we wanted from a local Indian takeout place and rating our favorites for a repeat order (we have already ordered again!)

While enjoying our food, we made time between contact tracing and grading to watch the sunset together. Our backyard has a magnificent view to watch the sun go down every night.

Between moving and continuing to both work more than full-time, it has been a challenge to find much time for anything besides working, unpacking, and finding a little time for sleeping and eating. My work week right now consists of 45-60 hours depending on which COVID-19 outbreaks are needing the most attention. Alex's teaching schedule now has him fully back in the classroom with a few virtual students tuning in via a laptop in his room at school.

Both of us know we are doing good work---work that outlives us in the long run. Some days it is harder to keep that in mind than others, but on balance it is a good feeling to know we are making a difference. I love that I have the best work-from-home buddy around; here he is in his "office" by the back door. Since there is so much wildlife to watch, this has quickly become one of Rory's favorite spots to hang out during the day.

Living in a place that already feels more settled with an incredibly friendly community has created an atmosphere of relaxation by the time we are able to go to bed and that support has been crucial. In the coming weeks we are both going to be cultivating the ever-elusive work-life balance, but for now...we are just going to take a minute for a quick hug before popping off to our various duties and take a deep breath of fresh air in the cool morning air.

Happy Friday, everyone, and for those not working, enjoy your weekend off!

Prepare, don't panic,

-Allison