Backwards Walk

I know I missed last summer, but I can't recall St. Louis suffering through the heat like this in quite some time.  It's definitely the worse my adult life has seen. Just stepping outside has me breaking into a sweat, and so forget about doing all other activities.  Not fun.  If it's going to be this hot I need to be accompanied by a large body of water. But the blessing in disguise is starting back to work because being there gives me something other to do than lay around all day.  We're still in the early stages so the kids haven't joined us at school yet, but that has also eased me into the new atmosphere at a slower pace.  There have been lots of handshakes and introductions... lots of ice cream on the side.

My summers are typically low-key; I may not have had a job all summer but I found myself with plenty to do.  I think a lot of that will carry over into the new job - mostly with relationships.  Getting to know people is something I am significantly better at, I mean significantly.  Once a person starts up a conversation I can go on and on.  I have no problem asking and telling, and feel more comfortable than ever once that wick is lit.  It's in groups of people that I still can't seem to find that wick, or know exactly what to lite it with.  My awkwardness permeates.  I think I'm generally okay with that; I don't need to be the highlight or center of attention or dominate the conversation. I'm okay with listening, but I feel others aren't always okay with it.  It's knowing when I have to step out of my comfort zone that is going to be key with the school year.  Every time it takes some getting used to, finding my pace and keeping a look out.



photo courtesy of Cuba Gallery on flickr