Bittersweet decision...

Four months today we will be saying good bye to our New Zealand friends, colleagues, teachers, employers and students. We are coming home.

I have been on a Leave of Absence from my teaching assignment in Canada. I got an email over the Christmas holidays saying that my leave would not be extended and I needed to be back teaching or resign. After the initial shock and anger Dano and I started talking about the future and what was important to us. We did not decide immediately to return home as our life here is wonderful. NZ has given us so much. The scenery and landscape alone makes me want to stay. But the friends and people we have come to know, the wonderful way of life - simple and relaxed, are the things we will always hold dear. Teaching here has given me the perspective I needed to refresh me enough to still want to teach. I will be applying for a transfer to teaching jobs in the Chatham-Kent area in May and June. Dano has come to the realization that a career change is necessary. He has a lead on a position in the Chatham area.

Last Thursday on our way home from school Sam had been quiet, deep in thought and as we rounded Dead Man's Curve (I just call it that because Dan does not slow down when he takes it) Sam pipes up and says "Mom, coming to New Zealand has been the best thing that has happened to me in my life." We shared a few silent knowing glances and finally he followed that up with "But I am ready to go home." I think that is how we are all feeling. Abby was the one that had the hardest time settling in here, calling this home and feeling like she was part of her school. She will be the one that has the hardest time leaving too. Already she has had weepy moments at school as she had been chosen for a Computer Leader for next year and she is the Head Librarian and "who will take over that job?" There is certainly something to be said about the kids and how school lets them grow. They are more confident, more relaxed and have time in the day to have conversations with their teachers. Kiwis "get it" when it comes to educating their children.

Once again we find ourselves planning to pack up 9 suitcases, travel across the globe and make a home with almost nothing. It is exciting. Having less and doing more has proven to be a good thing for us. The possibilities seem endless. This time though we are blessed with friends and family who will be there to lend a helping hand.

Looking forward to seeing everyone in August.

Until next time,
Samantha