So my first semester of my doctoral work went amazingly well - now that I am finished I can say that. It was a lot of work, but I did some wonderful learning and growing as a professional. When I finally finish this program, I am going to be a much better OT and hopefully a better leader as well. Best part is that not only were my professors, classmates, and mentor (who is a highly respected OT nationwide) impressed and excited about my work, but my supervisor was as well.
Now onto course #2. It was a much much needed 2 week break from coursework. I was able to get some things in order around our house. I am managing the best that I can as a mom. I am praying that turning 3 will help us turn a corner on some behaviors for Nathaniel. Is so so bright and fun, but also such a challenge as he just doesn't seem to understand consequences or hurtful behaviors? The joys of parenthood. Luckily Andrew has overcome his crying and screaming phase and has become an easy-going and happy baby.
So why am I overwhelmed, probably because I am trying to do too much. I am trying to be a mom. I am trying to do 1.5 FTE of work in my already cramped life. I am busy with many many many medical appointments and hopefully answers soon for Nathaniel. And I am insanely going back to school to pursue a doctoral degree. As Anthony put it in his choice of card for congratulations on completion of my first semester, "you Crazy genius".
Our class size nearly doubled (4 students to 7 students). I think that is making it more overwhelming as the number of discussion posts have more than quadrupled. Hopefully it tames down as time goes on. Also, I didn't start the readings early enough as I spent the weekend being a mom and loving it rather than reading for school. I also have put off a lot of work at home to try to get done in the office, but that just isn't happening - SIGH. Please keep my family in your mind as I continue to work on my work-school-life balance and do my best to put my boys first. I am sleeping little as I want to spend time with the boys in the evening rather than doing housework, etc, so dishes get started at 9 and homework or work work at 10. Keep Nathaniel in your thoughts as he has 2 big tests coming up in the next month. Keep Anthony in your thoughts as he struggles to fine balance too and is at work all the time. I know the boys miss him (I do too - I need my listening ear) and he misses them as well. Hopefully balance will arrive soon, but first I have to help the 4 of us sift through the mud.
