Sigh, I don't know if I can do it all!

KSParker2012

So originally my wedding was in September, I teach 4th grade and I would be able to be with my kids for a whole month before leaving.  Well since our venue "closed" we had to find a new one quickly, and I made it for August 24th, not thinking about school starting exactly one week before.  I am starting to freak out.  How am I going to do all this wedding stuff AND prepare my classroom?  My fiance even said last night how stressed I am going to be which really upset me.  I just feel defeated.  I have the goal of finishing everything wedding related one month before so I can focus on my kids.  I don't want them to feel second to this wedding, because they are my first priority.  Idk i'm just very frustrated and thinking that this is going to be impossible.  I also don't wanna be mean during the wedding cause I'm stressed...ugh prayers, advice, etc. would be much appreciated! 

spazticrexe

It seems like, from what you're saying, that you've practically been going alone on planning. I don't think it's all that uncommon, but considering the circumstances, a role reversal seems to be in order.  Maybe you can prepare for the wedding up until its time to prepare your classroom. Then, at that point, hand everything over to your FI. It seems odd he would mention how stressed you're going to be and not offer any help (maybe he did and you didn't mention it though)

smilesavy

My advice is make lists.  I have about 10 different post it notes of things that need to get accomplished.  It helps me see everything on paper and prioritize.  And I get a huge sense of accomplishment and it motivates me when I check things off.  I also gave my FI a list.  I put it on the fridge (knowing that is where he would see it most).  He is fully capable of handling things and I know mine doesn't do things that aren't asked of him.  So if you try and take it all on, he will expect you to.  But if you ask for help and put it into a visual (men are very visual) he will complete them. 

rgomez27941

Don't tell yourself you're going to be stress. Just keep saying, "this is fun!" Don't speak any negativity or stress over your wedding. Keep detailed to do list daily. YOU CAN DO THIS. Stay organized, ask for help where you can and delegate. Stay positive!

star623

I just wanted to say that I admire when you said you put your "kids" first.  Teachers don't get the credit they deserve a lot of the time.  Working with kids, I know you can handle anything and you'll be fine when it comes to organizing it all.

Best wishes for your wedding and the new school year!!!

rungirl12

I am guessing you have your entire summer off, so I think it is very manageable for you to finish wedding planning & prepare for next school year since you at least have the "luxury" of not having to work.  I agree with PP in that making lists is essential and will let you know exactly where you are in the process. You can do it!!

KSParker2012

Thanks for all the support I knocked out some more stuff today, and I think if I keep doing a little bit everyday it will all fall into place.  And if not OH WELL! LOL I have the big stuff that is needed.

libby2483

I am also a teacher, and I have similar feelings. We are getting married August 18, going on our honeymoon from August 20 to 27, and then teacher inservice starts on August 28! Not to mention we are buying a house this summer, too, and we are living with my grandma as we search for one. So I definitely understand where you are coming from. To keep myself stressfree, I have lots of lists: househunting, wedding, and school. I'm trying to do a little bit each day, so I don't get overwhelmed in August. My goal is to have everything ready to go in my classroom a week before the wedding. Just stay organized and make a timeline so you don't get stressed at the end.

dawnp917

I agree with making lists.  We have a Google Docs spreadsheet that FI both use to update things.  There are some things that are date dependent so there is a column for the date when something needs to be done - like we can get our wedding license anytime after June 7th, follow up on RSVPs after July 4th, etc.   Putting the things on the list we also have a column for items that don't need to be completed.  There are some things that we would like to do but if they don't get done nobody will notice.  For example I want to make ribbon bows for the aisle seats & OOT guest bags not sure that I'll get those done these are a much lower priority.

Figure out what is most important and get those things done if the other items don't get done don't stress your wedding will still be amazing.

LibbyC730

A lists and B lists are helpful and I definitely like to have daily lists when I have time off from work.  If I tried to everything I have left to do I would give up immediately!  By breaking it down and setting small goals each day, I get a huge sense of accomplishment when all of these tasks are finished in "just one day!"
Is there anyone else that can help with classroom prep?  Maybe if your 'maids are over helping with favor assembly, you could recruit them to help decorate the classroom, too!  Maybe some coworkers would be willing to help out with class prep, too?  Good luck and thanks for being a great teacher!

saraschilling88

I agree with PPs to make lists and delegate things!  If you can get help with things like Libby suggested I definitely would have people help!

I also agree that you sound like an amazing teacher, and I'd love for my future children to have a teacher like you who cares about the class!  You can definitely tell between a teacher who cares, and a teacher who's only there for a paycheck..

Good luck with everything and have a fantastic summer!!