When I lived and taught in Augusta, GA, I ran into parents and students constantly. Especially at the grocery store. And, it did not matter which day. Usually the encounters were quick and cordial. However, there were times when parents wanted to have an impromptu parent-teacher conference with you near the frozen foods. That wasn’t ok. But, that was the nature of this community. People lived and died in Augusta, and, their personal, professional and social lives intersected. Teachers and students attended the same church, socialized at the country club, etc. This made relationships between teachers and parents too closely connected for my liking. Anyway, a lot of one’s ability to maintain a balance largely depends on where she lives. It was also difficult to be a single in Augusta, as it is *very* family-oriented. In hindsight, I would have been much happier in ATL. Anyway, I have since found my way back North, and enjoy life – both personal and professional – so much better.

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