At the touch of love everyone becomes a poet.

Hi everyone!

My apologies for being MIA lately. Life at the Czajka-Crawford’s has been intense to say the least. Shannon and I have been challenged on so many levels lately. Shannon’s wonderful Nan passed away a few weeks ago and we couldn’t be more sadden by the loss. Shannon has recounted amazing stories of one of the most integral women in his life outside of his mom. I am so thankful that he has had strong women in his life who have made him who he is today. Dealing with the loss of such an amazing person is always hard and I am just trying to be the support Shannon needs.

I had an interview and demo lesson for a local school but didn’t get the job. I am excited that I had the opportunity to demo and the lesson went so well but my credentials are just not what they need. This is the other side of having such an awesome but very specific degree … having an Ed. Theatre/Social Studies degree is not the best certification during a recession lol! Shannon has been great and had some reservations anyway!  So, I am trying to think positively and I guess it just wasn’t meant to be. I must say though, my position as an After School Teacher is my bright spot. The kids are amazing and make me feel so complete. The teachers and school are great too which just gives me something to look forward to each day and I haven’t been able to say that in a while with regard to a job haha. I am starting to explore some options ... we shall see.

On a selfish side not but still sad, Shannon and I can’t get a puppy. We live in a pet friendly building but our landlords said they can’t add it on to our current lease but if we choose to stay here again they might consider it. We are just very ready for an addition … a little dog of our very own. Like everything else it will come in time but I could have really used that now, not down the road lol! When we get the little guy/gal, he/she will be perfect. In reality it has worked out for the best because we may be going to Australia for Christmas! The pup will be the best belated Christmas gift/great way to start 2013!

These are just a few of the updates on our lives. There have been some bumps and bruises over the last few weeks but there is no one else I would want by my side, getting through it all. I think that is the telltale sign of love, real love. When the hard times hit and you have the partner to help you, be with you and see it through. As random as it is, Shannon and I went to see The Five Year Engagement and there is a scene that we just loved. Jason Segel is upset and says he needs some alone time but when Emily Blunt gets up to give him space, he tells her to stay. That he needs and wants her there, even when he is seeking that alone time. Shannon and I have needed our own versions of alone time but always with the other right there … it is just what we need. Sappy I know, but truthful.

I cannot express how happy I am that May is here! It is one of my favorite months and this Memorial Day Weekend will mark the 2 year anniversary of me and Shannon meeting. If you would have told me 2 years ago that I would be in Chicago with an amazing Australian man, I would have told you that you were crazy. Yet, here we are, living our version of Happily Ever After (the real edition). It only makes me wonder where our lives will take us 2 year from now?! Who knows but I couldn’t be more excited to continue this journey with Shannon!

Best Always,

Kate

PS-This weekend is Mother's Day! I know I am blessed with the most amazing MommyLou ... I don't know what I would do without her!! Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful moms out there! And a special shout-out to Sue (Shannon's mom) & my mom!! WE LOVE YOU GUYS!