Southwestern Travels and A Whole Lotta Love

Dear readers (I say that as if I have hundreds upon thousands of devoted blogfans when really I know I'm speaking to a few faithful friends)-
I apologize for leaving you for the past two weeks. It wasn't intentional, I promise. More like, it has been wild and crazy (but in lots of good ways). First, let me say this- my new job as a parttime Spanish/ballet/hip hop/music & movement teacher for preschoolers is rewarding, hilarious, and exhausting (Red Bull has literally become a staple in my diet). In the course of minutes, I am surrounded by colorful tutus, tiny babies yelling in Spanish and questions like "Are you pregnant?" coming out of the mouths of 6 year olds. Let me tell you, there is nothing more motivating than hearing those words. P90x it is. Chris is going to join me.
It has been a lot to juggle because contrary to popular belief, I firmly believe that 25 hours worth of multiple parttime jobs is far more stressful than 40 hours a week of one full time job. It's the switching gears and living out of the back seat of your cars that really gets you. In the course of a day I am now changing diapers, writing lesson plans, or cramming for a microbiology exam. No big deal though. I love my munchkins, every single one of them, and classes are great (even though frustrating at times).
Let's skip ahead here now as Chris and I just got back from a FABULOUS trip to Arizona! We were checking out jobs and schools in the area. I will be honest when I say when he first mentioned the idea, I was less than excited. I had never had any interest in Arizona and as a former Texas ex-pat (not the correct terminology, but I don't really have a better word to use), I was terrified at the thought of heading BACK to the Southwest- after all, two years ago I was clawing my way out of it. HOWEVER. I. LOVE. ARIZONA. It is beautiful, warm, filled with art and Spanish influence, has AMAZING, INCREDIBLE, MIND BLOWING food, and is chock full of the friendliest people you will ever meet. I honestly cannot think of one single thing I DISLIKED about it. And that is rare for Mariah, the cynical New England lover. I think what sold me was walking around a store wearing red cowboy boots and a Stetson hat while music from the Rusty Spur Saloon blasted across the street. It's a totally different world but one that I feel quite comfortable and happy in. So we shall see :) Now if I could JUST find out if I get into/will get into nursing school...... oyyyyy still a little stressful, but trying my best to take things one day at a time and realize that no matter what it takes to finish school and get to the next step, my relationship will remain strong and constant. After all, all you need is love. That is truly what matters in the end- not fancy degrees or loads of money. Just love, plain and simple.
Now off to take the week by storm! Lots of love from a slightly warmer than normal Midwest :)