New: A List

I think I’ve had an idea for a blog post almost every day this week, but they never panned out. I think my brain is on overload. It’s hard to process too much right now because every day this week I was introduced to new ideas, new programs, new responsibilities, new people, new, new, new…

So, here’s a run down of some of the new things going on for me these days:

1. New morning routine: I’m getting up at 6 every morning. For some this may not seem like a big deal, but let me tell you: that’s early! But, I’m making it happen. If I want to accomplish certain goals every morning, I need to be up by 6. So, I’m up by 6. The first few minutes are hard, but once I get going, it’s not too bad.
2. New morning drive: Although my new destination is only 2.5 miles farther than my old one, it takes much longer to get to work now. Well, by “much” I mean another 10-20 minutes depending on the time of day. I suppose that really isn’t a big deal, but it is taking some getting used to.
3. New lunch plans: I used to go out to lunch with co-workers 2-3 times a week. I used to have a generous hour (or more) for lunch. Lunch was a social occasion. Now I take 30 minutes for lunch (I can have an hour, but why if it’s just me and it means I can leave earlier…). I pack my lunch in the morning and bring a book with me to work. I find a spot somewhere to eat for 25 minutes then head back to my desk. I’ll definitely be saving money and I kind of enjoy the little quiet time during the day.
4. New people: I really like my new coworkers. Everyone is helpful and friendly and easy to talk with. I haven’t branched out too far from my immediate team yet. However, there are a lot of people to get to know on my floor. I’m looking forward to the opportunities!
5. New job: I’m a Program Manager for the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving located in the IU School of Philanthropy on the IUPUI campus. I’ll mostly be doing event planning, marketing and communication. I’ll be working with churches, judicatories and seminaries as they partner with us to offer seminars and courses on religious fundraising. It’s a good mix of what I enjoy. The first week didn’t involve a lot of “work” but it did lay the groundwork for what I’ll be doing in the coming weeks and months.
6. New rhythm to life: I was only in my sewing room once last week. I went to yoga twice during the week. Some evenings, by the time I got home from yoga then had dinner, it was almost time for bed. I didn’t have the energy to write. My mornings include exercise instead of journaling and reflection. Things are definitely different right now. However, when I came home each evening I didn’t check work email or get work texts. This weekend, so far, has been glorious. (I usually had two days off in a row before, but there really is something different about my weekend being the weekend.)

I know some days I’ll come home annoyed with my job or the commute or whatever. No job is perfect. However, something feels different about this job – there’s a freedom in it. Which is strange to say since I have a stricter schedule and dress code. I can’t put my finger on it just yet, but I feel lighter. I’m grateful for all the mysterious ways this job came to me. It’s right where I need to be.

peace.