Like That

Chapter 3 - Streaking

I three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on -- Robert Frost

Chapter 3 - Streaking

Emily's POV:

It's gotten easier sleeping alone. Christmas has come and gone. I splurged and got myself a new bed. I no longer need to have a king size bed, if I was only sleeping in it, so I opted for a much more functional queen bed. It had been difficult sleeping in the bed I shared with Patrick when I knew he would not be there with me.

My parents and brothers have done a wonderful job filling the void Patrick left behind. We spent Christmas Eve at my parents' home at the lake, but opening presents Christmas morning was so hard...I couldn't believe Patrick was missing this.

Mason and Peyton won the jackpot when it came to gifts. My parents went a bit overboard, but this was the first time they have had my boys around during the holidays. One of Mason's favorite gifts was the matching Barcelona uniform for Peyton and him. Before lunch they were donning the uniforms with the biggest, cheesiest smiles they could muster. I know you shouldn't say this about boys-but it was soooo "sweet."

Mason is back in school. Today is the second day of tryouts. I had to have Michael pick him up yesterday, because I had a job interview. I have a call back today for a fourth grade teaching position. I am excited, but I'm more excited my boys are happy and settled in our new home.

One great thing about not having a job...I actually have time to fix breakfast for the family. My boys wander into the kitchen just as I finish cooking. I make myself a cup of Earl Grey tea...no longer the coffee drinker I once was. I've found the caffeine doesn't help with the panic feeling that has appeared since Patrick has been gone, nor does it help with my inability to sleep.

"Mason, I'll be there to pick you up after tryouts. I want to get there early enough to watch you in action."

"Ok, Mom...if it goes like it did yesterday, we don't scrimmage until about 4:15-4:30. The coach is spending the first half just working on conditioning."

After breakfast Mason catches the bus, leaving me with Peyton. Peyton helps me clear the dishes, before deciding it's time for toys. While Peyton is occupied I take a quick shower. We are going to the grocery store before I have to get ready for the interview.

Taking Peyton to the store is always fun. He has to examine all the fruit and vegetables and help me weigh each item. He also likes to show me all of his favorite things. He is very talkative during our outing, but that is ok...he is still to exploring sounds and language. By the end of our trip, Peyton was beginning to fade. It was time for an early lunch so I can get him down for a nap.

While Peyton was asleep, I changed into a purple blouse and grey pencil skirt. Patrick used to tell me that he loved the way my blue eyes sparkled when I wore purple. Breathe in - Breathe out...smile and pull myself together. "Patrick is not here. Stop thinking about him," I tell myself. I zip up my boots and then freshen my makeup. Tying my hair into a loose bun, I check my appearance in the mirror. I don't exactly look like a teacher, but that's kind of the point.

My sister-in-law offered to keep Peyton while I work ....and by 1:00 I drop Peyton off with Keira so I can go to the interview.

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The interview went well. I was offered the job after I was given a tour of the school and met the other 4th grade teachers. The teacher I am replacing will be taking maternity leave in a week, and will not come back before school lets out in May. I will start work on Thursday, so I can get acquainted with the students and the teacher's schedule. I know I will make some changes after it becomes my classroom, but students need the structure that is already in place.