Green shoots

Metaphorical ones, not literal. 

A while ago I wrote a post about feeling down. Sometimes it feels as though the world is conspiring against you in lots of mean little ways. I was worried about finding work after maternity leave (having been a temp for a while prior to having Joe, thus having no permanent job to go back to). The house was for sale (still is) and nobody seemed interested in buying it. I felt homesick.

But I always tell myself - not always convincingly - that downs are followed by ups. It's just how life is. And there are lots of small things which feel as though they've swung the balance back in my favour.

I'm loving my pottery course. Even the homework aspect of it. It's making me focus on my creativity and I'm making time to do things I enjoy. And last night the tutor told us there would be a follow-on course for those interested. Even more excitingly (for me anyway): she's going to run an art course covering things like printmaking, which I've always wanted to try.

These short courses are great - inexpensive, informal and just fun. I even dusted off my watercolours yesterday for the first time in ages.

As for work, it looks as though I may do some tutoring sessions. I used to be a teacher and Jay's parents are retired teachers/educational professionals. So I'll be getting some help to bring me up to speed and hopefully come September will have some flexible work which will give me an income and allow me to be with Joe.

I have several friends locally too. We all met through the various mum and baby groups we attend. You always click with some people more than others, and there is a little group of us who meet up and do things together (walking, coffee, ahem - pub).

And Joe is turning into quite a character. He's going to be crawling very soon (judging from the rocking-on-all-fours thing), his bottom teeth are through and he's just good company. He has a really sweet nature. I love watching him discovering new things every day. 

Finally, we switch estate agents in a week or two so maybe - just maybe - someone will want our house. Although to be honest I'm not in too much of a hurry any more. When life gives you lemons and all that...