I Heart Art!

Since love is in the air, here's a post about the new love of my life...my job as an art teacher! This is the first job that I have really, truly loved, besides being a mommy, of course. I've been teaching art on Mondays since the fall for a very small school of kindergarten through eighth graders. Since I first saw the ad in the classifieds, I knew it was something that I really wanted to pursue, and although there are times when all does not go as smoothly as I'd like, it's been a great fit for me. Just enough time to get out of my house and away from the daily grind, but not enough to where I feel like I'm neglecting my most important responsibilities at home.

I love the challenge and chance to be creative! The students are great and really enjoy my class, too. For most of them, this is their first opportunity to have art and some of them tell me they wish they had art twice a week instead of their other specials (music & PE). It's been good for me to be back in the world of teaching again, and I am now motivated to keep my certificate valid. My Aunt Michele has taught art in Deer Valley for years and has always loved her job. She's been a great resource and inspiration for me, always willing to share ideas and lead me in the right direction. Now that this is my "specialty" it's been so great to expand my knowledge of the artworld and to encourage my students to try new things and be creative. It's been very fulfilling and wonderful all around and has also motivated me to roll up my sleeves and do more arts and crafts at home with Kaleb and our cooperative preschool kiddos.

A very special thanks to Chrissy who cares for my kids while I'm away...she's the best and I couldn't do this without knowing my boys were in good hands! Also to Ben my love and the boys for their support as well, who helped me make this decision that effects us all.

Here are a few of the projects we've done so far...enjoy!