I posted this early in the discussion area:  Hey Everyone, I had my first day today at 71% time--I'm done teaching early in the afternoon and have that time 'free' to get my school work for the next day done as well as work on my final project for my Master's Degree. I feel so free! It's been a long five months with way too many medical setbacks, but for the first time in a long time, I feel like hope abounds! If I had just made this decision earlier. The great part is that I still can collect 100% of my salary until I run out of sick leave. And after that...possibly partial disability. I hope that my good news and my new found optimism rubs off on any of you who may need some. It just feels so darned good to have this huge weight taken from me...at least that is what it feels like. I'm finally over the guilt of not being able to work 'full-time' as well. I never thought I would like my job this much! Now I look forward to going to work as I know it will not take up the majority of my life. I could just kick myself for not seeing this solution sooner. Thank-goodness for understanding administrators and another teacher who was able to fill my afternoon classes--and she is thrilled to be back in the classroom! Whoo Hoo! Is there a super happy happy face? Who else has good news? Posted on 02/12/08, 10:02 pm