Today's emotions

Ambivalence. The moments at work where I feel like I'm making a difference in a child's life are wonderful. But they're just moments amidst vast swathes of time where I'm either bored or annoyed.

I haven't yet heard whether or not I've got a place on the university's graduate teaching programme. If I don't get a place, I'll have to do some serious thinking about what I want to do next year.

Sadness. A dear friend is getting married this summer in Florida, and we have had to accept that we simply can't be there. I feel intense sadness about this; I would so love to be there to share in his happiness.

Awkwardness and guilt. The sellers of House A called this evening to let us know how outraged they are that we have pulled out of the deal. I am quite pleased with the way I handled the phone call. On the one hand, I do feel for them - I would also be upset in their position - and I let them know that, and apologised. But on the other hand, I also let them know that we found their list of exclusions completely unacceptable. Interestingly, staying cool on the phone was a skill I only developed when I had to negotiate with the world's worst insurance company (Lifewise of Oregon, if anyone's interested.) An unforeseen benefit of those particular trials and tribulations.

Stress. I had a slew of phone calls to make - the endocrinologist, the solicitor, the estate agent, our landlord ... Very difficult to find the time, since I can't make personal calls from work. It did all get done in the end, though.

Tranquillity. I enjoyed walking to the library this evening after supper. I am loving the long summer evenings and the freedom of not having to bundle up in a coat and scarf anymore. And as I sit here typing this, my view is of apple blossom and new green leaves, and I can hear the birds chirping in the garden.

Enthusiasm. I'm slightly surprised by the way I'm suddenly returning to devouring good books instead of nibbling on fluff. Maybe I am reading so voraciously because I'm not really being stretched enough at work?

Apprehension. We got our date for Emily's pituitary MRI - it'll be on June 6. It is a fairly routine check, but I'll feel better when it's all over and we're sure we have nothing to worry about.

Relief. We don't have to pay for the MRI. Last time we had to cough up $2500 dollars upfront.

Amusement. Sophie's latest joke :

Knock knock
Who's there?
Oddley hee
Oddley hee who?
I didn't know you could yodel!