The MFA program I’m starting in August has prompted me to make some huge changes, not all of them very easy to make. I’ve had to resign from teaching yoga at the YMCA on Mondays and Tuesdays because I’m going to be in class at those times. This is a tough goodbye for me, because I really enjoy the community at the Y, and I get a great feeling of peace and calm from teaching the classes.
I’ve also had to back out of my work with Pindrop Press, which is headed by Jo Hemmant. Most of you who read this blog know Jo, and know what a great person she is. It has been hard letting go of these activities, but my current financial and family situation have made it necessary for me to change directions.
And sadly, I won’t be editing ouroboros review with Jo any more, although hopefully I’ll be able to help Jo out if and when she needs it. It’s a fabulous magazine, mostly because of Jo’s attention to detail and her quest for high artistic quality. I’ll still support the magazine 100%, although it will mostly be from the sidelines from here on out.
Many thanks to Jo, who has taught me a lot about editing a magazine, and who has had to put up with my changing course in the middle of the stream.
In August I’ll be teaching English Composition to freshmen, tutoring at the university writing studio, and taking three graduate classes, in addition to being a mother to my high-school son. My college-aged son is fairly self sufficient, although there always seems to be something – a car problem, laundry, money, etc… . Oh, right, I also have a husband. I guess he needs me a little.
If I had super powers I’d ask for a brain that never got sleepy, the ability to do three or four things at once, plus enough confidence to never feel angst about anything new. In the meantime I fret.
A garden ornament found in Great Barrington, MA
Balanced On the Edge 
Oh, dear friend, it is so hard to make the tough choices. I admire you and support you (in my meager, virtual way) for making them.
Here’s to you and a full, full year. To balance and power and as much sleep as you can manage.
xxood
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Oh Christine, I’m so sorry to hear you’ve had to give up so much. I know how much you enjoyed these things especially your yoga. But, it’s time to transition into your next challenge which will be a good one. Hope nothing but good comes from all you try to achieve. Have a great day.
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Christine, these changes are huge, and I know it’s so hard to make them. As I’ve said before, it’s so important to do what you need to for your education and your art. You are going to have an amazing experience getting your MFA — it’s all going to be worth it in the end.
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First of all, I’m excited that you will be getting your MFA. Second of all, that will be plenty on your plate. I’m sorry you don’t get to do some of the other activities you enjoy, but I think you will love being in a program. Take care, and let me know if you need anything!
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the problem of abundance is a real one: in that it doesn’t come with extra hours in the day. the decisions are difficult, for sure. i’m jealous you’ll be doing MFA thing! however, i can also see it requires a dedication and singular focus i don’t have right now (have never had, may never have, etc.)
i’ll have to live vicariously through you and others where higher education is concerned. 🙂
i hope you’ll be able to update the blog and keep us in the loop.
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Woah! These are big changes. I’m so sorry you won’t be involved with Ouroboros anymore, but glad Jo is carrying on. It’s a fantastic journal. Good luck in everything, Christine.
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You’ll do great with grad school, Christine. I taught freshman comp for a number of years. Let me know if you want to chat about it.
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Yes, you’ll do very well, you’re a born teacher. You know I’m very sad you’re leaving but all good things must come to an end and there will be new things for both of us. You’ve worked very hard on our magazine and should be very proud. Good luck with it all.
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Jo, your words bring a lot of comfort to me.
Everyone else, thanks for the encouragement. I need it! I often think, who am I, at the age of 48, to even think about a writing journey. So your words give me courage.
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Christine, I am so sad to see you leave ouroboros. Your work is beautiful. BUT your leave is completely understandable. Your new schedule is hectic, and “hectic” is an understatement! I am very excited to see all the new and wonderful things that will be coming your way. You deserve it!!
Of course, you should start a writing journey. I have another friend who is starting the journey in her 70’s. I have already learned much from her. You will excel. I am very proud to know you.
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