What I Learned This Month

(Photo: Picture of park in Baltimore's Homeland neighborhood)

Recently, I was asked by one of my favorite bloggers Yuko Jones of NORTHFIELD GATE to participate in a link-up party called, "What We Learned". The premise of "What We Learned" is for bloggers to get together at the end of each month and write about what they've learned. I always enjoy reading these posts, so I was more than happy to accept her invitation. So here goes, this is what I learned in May:

1. When You Don't Like Something, Work to Change it

Some weeks ago I wrote a post about the importance of city dwellers working to rebuild public education institutions. In Baltimore, many city schools are of poor quality. There are most certainly some gems within the system, but there is still much work to be done to ensure all residents have access to strong schools.

Recently A local non-profit has been working to convert my neighborhood school into a charter school. They received final approval from our local school board to proceed with their plans a few days ago, and I could not be happier. I've visited several of their schools and seen the good work they do up close and personal. I can't wait to see how they improve my local elementary school. I think it will provide a good opportunity for young families to reinvest in public schools, and make more long-term connections in my neighborhood.

Following and participating in the process to get the school approved has shown me the importance of being an involved community member, and not just a complaining when conditions are not how I would like.

2. It's Important to Set Aside Time for Marital Check-Ins

Having a stable and loving marriage is of utmost importance to me. I love my husband with all of my heart, but know it takes much more than love to make a relationship work. With a baby on the way, I am particularly concerned with making sure our little one enters the world as a part of a healthy and loving union. As a result, the hubs and I have been setting aside time to have deep talks about our expectations, hopes for the future, and suggestions for making our marriage better. These talks have really done wonders to bring us even closer to one another, and I'm really looking forward to getting old together :-)

3. I Don't Need to Travel Far to Have a Good Time

The past few weeks were filled with extended travel for the hubs and I (a post about one of our excursions will be coming soon, so stay tuned). We are trying to live up our last few child free months, and have been having a good time. While I enjoyed both of the trips we took this month I realized they were not necessary. While away we both felt super home sick. I guess this a testament to the saying, "home is where the heart is". When we are at home we both feel loved, peace, and secure....what more could we ask for?

"As I grow yearly, I can see things more clearly." ~Nas