Bittersweet Changes

The the past few weeks have brought a lot of stress in the form of jobs, students, deadlines, etc, but they have also been quite liberating. The biggest news from the Hartman home is that now our home is comprised of just the two of us. I have refrained from writing about the roommate situation on here to protect feelings, but suffice it to say that it has been hell for both sides. As of this past Saturday the roommate has moved out and we are enjoying the sensation of not having to worry about coming home to tension, glares, and constant disrespect. Our friends feel comfortable coming over now that the awkward angry ambiance has disappeared. They feel like they can engage in conversations without being rudely ignored or glared at. This makes us very happy as we love having people over as much as possible. Now we can focus on our marriage, our life, and our home without any distractions and constant added irritations.

While Herman says good riddance, I have been taking some contemplative time to look back on it all and wonder what could have made it better? I am willing to own up that we got angry about various things and stayed angry, and I know that our lack of basic Christian forgiveness did nothing to help alleviate the situation. I know there were efforts at conversations from both sides, but at a certain point it comes down to a willingness to respect the needs and desires of the people we live with, and while I feel we bent over backwards for her and her needs, I don't feel that the effort was reciprocated at all.

So while I am sad that it ended the way it did, without even a goodbye, ultimately for all our sakes, I am happy that it did end. None of us need that level of constant anger, anxiety and tension in our lives, especially in our homes which should be our sanctuary from all those stressors in the world. So to the former roommate I wish the best of luck with all that is to come for you. May all that you desire come true, and may your life be filled with love and joy. Take care.

xoxo
The Hartmans

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Its 2009!

Well tonight is my last night of winter break, and tomorrow (hopefully... its snowing again)I will get to see my kiddos again. It has been a LONG three weeks. I spent 3 days this week in the classroom figuring out how to tie things up from before break and getting the room ready for the changes I'm going to implement.

We have had a lovely break, and have managed to see everyone we wanted to. We even hosted a New Years Eve game night, which turned out to be a riot, due to Shane's tired laugh. (You have to hear it to fully appreciate it, and now, we are part of the lucky few.) Now we are looking forward to this coming year, and all the new adventures and freedoms from certain stressors it will bring.

A few New Years Eve party pics for you to enjoy:

Brittany and I after a few too many delicious libations

Typical Herman and me

Shane and Herman, after a overly friendly tussle
Jungle Juice - DELICIOUS
Herman and Erin enjoying some of the best fondue I have ever made

Herman was able to work all days this past week, and because he had New Years off, worked yesterday (Saturday). We spent today running around to store after store in search of the best prices on snowboarding gear. Yes, Herman has convinced me to try snowboarding this weekend with our friends Lindsay and Josh. We are going up to Mt. Hood Meadows and will be spending the night. It should be loads of fun. Even if I wind up bruised and sore, playing in the snow with an amazing couple of friends will be worth it.

Now, I should be off to do some seating charts before the kiddos arrive tomorrow.

until next time~

xoxo
The Hartmans