Back To School

Given the time of year, this isn't an original title.  But "back to school" hasn't applied to me for several years, and I'm going to take full advantage of it this time around.  As I mentioned a while ago, I want to eventually get a masters degree in Art Therapy. This is completely different from my current field (Computer Science), but it's a move I find extremely exciting (and scary, but mostly exciting).

In working towards this goal, I decided to really work hard on taking prerequisite classes this fall.  I made an arrangement with my employer (thank you, employer!) to only work three days a week, and spend the other two taking art classes at a local community college.  I'm taking Oil Painting, 3D Design, and Ceramics (non-wheel) this semester, and I'm really loving the classes so far.  I think I appreciate college classes more now that I've been out in the "real world" for quite a while.

This new schedule is really doing wonders for me.  I'm happier and more relaxed.  My job was really getting to me of late, and I found myself getting depressed on Sunday nights that the weekend was over and I had to go back to work.  Not a good thing.  Now that I never work two days in a row, it's much easier to go to work and to get a good amount done while I'm there. 

This schedule change also benefits my knitting time.  I have 90 minutes between classes for lunch, and I can divide this up nicely between eating, homework, and knitting.  I've found that sitting on a bench and knitting really helps me prepare creatively for my remaining class.  And hey, I'll eventually get a sock out of the deal, too. 

Another difference to my schedule is that I'm not around a computer at all on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  This puts me behind on blog reading and commenting, but I've found that I'm able to catch up on the remaining days.  I just thought I'd give a warning on why I might not be as quick to respond as I used to be!

All paint items were checked carefully before placing on the knitting.

Another thing that pertains to Back to School: my newest project.  I started the Back to School U-Neck Vest from Stephanie Japel's Fitted Knits.  I've been obsessed with knitting a vest ever since Christy started knitting one, and I think the Back to School Vest is a great choice.  I've been checking out some finished ones on Ravelry, and they all look great on the wearer. I'm kitting it with Malabrigo worsted (Rhodesian for the body, Pagoda for the edging), and it's knitting up fairly quickly on size 9 needles.

Over the next few months, I'll have some art class projects to show you (if you don't mind), as well as even more knitting!

PS. My dad went home from the hospital today!

 

Comments

[Christine]

I'm so glad to hear that your dad came home today, that you are happier all around. I'm a little jealous that you are going back to school. This is the first fall that I'm not starting classes, in a way I'm a bit sad. I love that color yarn... you are very brave putting the paint on your sweater regardless of checking them.

[David]

I'm a bit jealous, since I liked college, but I do occasionally sit in on classes at Princeton. It's nice that your dad is recovering.

[Christy/ Not Hip]

Hey...did you know that that is what my master's is in? Let me know if you ever want to talk about it.
That U neck vest is in my queue also, along with another Rowan vest. I'm a bit obsessed with them right now.
And yay on dad coming home.

[Elinor]

I'm so glad the school schedule is treating you well. There's something so nice about the beginning of a new school year - it's a fresh start with so much potential!! Enjoy it! And I'm so glad to hear that your dad is better!!!!!!!!!

[stacey]

Congratulations on biting the bullet and getting back to school - it is so hard once you've been out for awhile. Looking forward to hearing how it progresses. And how awesome that it gets you some needed time away from your job - whew. I'm so glad you dad is on the road to recovery! Take care!

[Kelly]

oh exciting times!!! Your classes sound like fun! I hope you continue to enjoy them this semester!!
Glad to hear your dad is home too :)

[knittingphilistine]

Congrats on the leap forward! Sounds exciting and I can't wait to see your art! (Beautiful back-to-school knit, too!)

[Jessica]

Glad you wrote that you checked the art supplies before putting them on the knitting! ;) The vest is going to be awesome! And I am *so* glad to hear your Dad is finally home. What a relief!

[Kim]

Good luck in school. Art Therapy sounds like an excellent and creative field. I am looking forward to seeing your school projects. Glad your Dad is home now.

[Ariel]

Very glad to hear your dad is home now and that you're enjoying being back in school. I totally agree that one appreciates school more after being out in the real world for awhile (it's hard to believe that for four years all I had to do was *learn*!). And I hope you'll be sharing some of your creative classwork with us!

[Liz K.]

Malabrigo vest? Luscious! I made a sweater from Malabrigo, and it has held up beautifully, knit at a tighter gauge and with light wear. It has developed a halo, for sure, but is has not fallen apart with huge pills as Malabrigo's reputation might have you believe.

Thanks for keeping us posted on your dad. I am relieved that he is out of the woods.

[kelp!]

Good to hear about your dad!

Art therapy sounds interesting, for sure. I'm also a computer scientist that's been yearning for a change as of late. Can't wait to see your artistic creations!

[Brenda]

Great news all round! Looking forward to seeing your artwork and that vest--the colors are wonderful.

[Tanya]

Its great to hear good news about your dad.
The classes sound exciting! I know what you mean about it meaning more now than when we were in school the first go'round.
Love that sweater...it is on my list!

[stacey]

yay that your dad is better! that is great! sounds like you are so much happier. I have that dread feeling every sunday also. makes coming to work on mondays not so fun....glad you are making a change!

[Jean]

Good news all around! Your art classes sound amazing. I'm sure we'll love to see your art class projects as well as the kntting.