Sunday, September 8, 2013

A New Adventure

Most of you know that I LOVE books, but many of you may not know that I've spent the last seven years teaching English at the university where I earned my M.A. in Literature.  


Last year I was offered a new job in University Administration, and though I absolutely love the work I'm doing now, it's been a BIG transition!


One of greatest challenges was getting organized, and part of that had to do with making my new office feel like home. I spent a year learning a new profession, and I just simply didn't have time to do anything with my office space.


But I'm finally starting to get situated in my new position. I've cleaned out my inbox...


...and started sprucing up my work space!




I began by papering my bookshelf and bulletin board with pretty vintage prints.



Then I added a few warm accents...



...and a familiar friend...


I also decided to create a piece that would remind me of the last seven years I spent in graduate school and working with students in the English courses I taught.


I pieced together several excerpts from my favorite literary passages and the notes my beloved students have given to me over the years.
 

I also made sure to place my favorite collection of poetry on the closest bookshelf to my desk.



The transition into this new role took some time...


But I believe that our past always prepares us for the new adventures that await...
 
~ Nel ~ 

23 comments:

It's me said...

Enjoy a happy sunday....love Ria...x !

Susie said...

Nel, The after photos are much warmer. When you spend that kind of time away from home, you need some warmth. Blessings. xoxo,Susie

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Nel, I didn't know you taught at the university level! Good for you. I too am learning a new position this year; I taught fourth grade in the French Immersion program but now I'm teaching French at the high school level and also 8th graders. A LOT OF TRANSITION FOR SURE!

Let's make this a good year! Anita

NanaDiana said...

HA, Nel! I knew you were a smart girl. You will LOVE what you are doing and I love what you have done with your space to make it your own. My own Dad taught English lit at Penn State before I was born. I bit my teeth on poetry. lol xo Diana

TARYTERRE said...

LOVE that familiar face.

Lynne said...

I LOVE that you shared this brilliant fact about you, Nel!
You have created a beautiful "room to muse"!
I wish you continued success!
w/L.

louise said...

I love what you've done. Your office looks like home from home :-)

I love books too - Ann Tyler is a big favourite of mine

Mary@mydogsmygardenandmary said...

Congratulations on your new position.
Your office looks great and shows your love of books.
Have a great year.
Mary

Sue McPeak said...

Congratulations on your new position. I believe you are well prepared for all new adventures. You new space is very warm and inviting and you will no doubt have many moments to continue your positive journey. I'm sure there is a Walt Whitman quote to punctuate that thought. He's one of my favorites, too.

Thanks for stopping by CollectInTexas Gal today. I too am looking for just the right 2014 Calendar.
Sue

andrea@townandprairie said...

Aren't those notes from students the best! I save those forever. Sometimes they need to be re-read to keep me motivated.

RobinfromCA said...

Now that looks like a cozy and peaceful work environment! Very nice and a job well done to have your inbox empty!
Robin

Lavender and Linen said...

You are a busy lady! Congrats! It's looks like it's going to be a very nice atmosphere!

Ivy and Elephants said...

Congratulations! Glad when people get to do jobs that they really love and makes them happy. Your office is going to be just gorgeous! I love all the personal and meaningful touches.
Hugs,
Patti

Hayu Maselli said...

Wow, beautiful vintage bookshelf Nel.
You did well job.
have a good day

Patricia said...

What a stylish and lovely workspace you have created for yourself, Nel!

Red Rose Alley said...

Nel,
Your office is looking great! I loved going shopping with you and trying to find things for your work space. That little owl is sooooo cute, and makes it feel like home. Where did you find that?

~Mom

Susie Swanson said...

It looks so pretty. Thank you for sharing with us. Hugs, xo

Susie Swanson said...

Hi Sheri, thought i'd pop back over and tell you I have one son that's soon to be 42. 3 grandchildren and one great grandson. They are so much joy. Thank you for the sweet words on mine. xo

Attic Clutter said...

oh wow beautiful
Nel
(:)
Sheri
peaches oh love peach pie.. well might make a peach cobbler (:)
hugs,patty

Deserae said...

Congrats on your new position! Your new space is so pretty...I love what you did with the back of the shelves :o)
~Des

Sandy said...

Sheri sure has some smart gals! Love the way you decorated your office. After all, you probably spend a lot of time in there you want it to be warm and filled with your personality. I didn't know you taught at the university level. That's wonderful!

Barbara said...

Clever idea to line the bookshelves! Glad you made time to work on your office space...always helps to surround yourself with things you love.

Jemma@athomewithjemma said...

Nel,
I have been reading several posts by all of you-such a rich and delightful life you have. I love what you are doing with your office-such warm, interesting and inspirational touches!
Jemma