Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also

It still makes me smile when I think about my first introduction to the Outer Banks. The summer before I entered High School (summer of 1987 I do believe) I went with my Uncle Ron and his daughter, Heidi, along with a whole host of others to Nags Head for a week. It was the first time I had ever gone away for that long without my parents. It was also among the best times of my early teenaged years. I also remember sending postcards but not phoning my parents until we got to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel on the way home!

I remember the layout of the house, the sight of the beach from the crow's nest, the wonderful memories that have lasted a lifetime! I remember buying my first bikini at a little swanky shop, boogie boarding, parasailing, and eating seafood for the first time. I even remember the name of my first beach crush, Evan! Hahaha oh the memories. 

It took me nearly 20 years to find my way back to the OBX and now it is a yearly occurrence. My son-through-marriage lives in Corolla and is a gracious host when we need a little get away. When my soul needs recharging, I know one little trip to the Outer Banks can get me right again. This little trip was no different for me. 

Tomorrow is the start of a weeklong back to school in-service. Normally I would be excited to see everyone (which I am) but this time, I am a bundle of nerves. I will have a new grouping of people to get to know, a new supervisor to get used to, and a whole new realm of teaching to become reacquainted with. I am a bundle of nerves. This week has been a great way to reassure myself that all will be ok and I can accept the new challenges confidently. 

As I sat on the beach (and the drive on beach is my favorite place to be), I focused all my negative energy on the waves, letting the tides and currents wash them all away. A peaceful sense of serenity washed over me and I realized I will be AOK! The drive home, while being filled with sadness at having to leave my happy place, is not filled with dread. It is bittersweet that my summer vacation began with a trip to Corolla and is pretty much ending with the same trip. I am at peace in my professional life thanks to the Ocean and her mystical powers!

Now if only my test scores would post.....

"Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."