The End of a Chapter

I turned in the keys to my classroom yesterday.  I was really excited because I had finally finished the monumental task of cleaning out the room.  There were definitely other feelings present, though.  After nine years of teaching third grade at the same school, I no longer have a room to call my own.  I can't just let myself in the building anymore.  Of course, I'm welcome to visit.  As a visitor.  It's just so strange.

I haven't been able to teach since December due to bed rest/babies, but as I spent too many hours at the school this week, it just seemed so natural.  That's what I do. I walk up and down those halls, greeting familiar faces. I attend faculty meetings.  I hunt for worthwhile resources.  I teach a group of students all year.  We clean and pack up the room for the summer.  Repeat.  Only not this time.  My resignation letter has been submitted and another teacher is taking my place.

It's a very coveted place.  Being a part of the third grade team is where it's at. I've worked with the best group of women over the years.  They're the hardest ones to leave.  Yes, I'll miss the kids, but I just love my team.  I couldn't have asked for better people to work with.  They are amazing.

I didn't realize how much I was going to miss Meridian until I watched a video from this year's 6th grade graduation. It's not just about the boy giving the speech.  It's about all the people in the school who worked together so that he and his classmates could feel proud to call Meridian their home. So, thanks for everything, Meridian. You have taught me so much.   

And finally, two lists:

Things I'm Not Going to Miss

1) Long hours

2) Parents who aren't supportive

3) Squishies (ridiculous toys they sell at school)

4) Grading

5) Tests, tests, tests

6) Sub plans
7) Rainy Day Schedule

Things I Will Miss
1) When kids 'get it'
2) Playing tether ball at recess
3) Field trips
4) Good news/bad news sharing time
5) Lunch with other teachers
6) Gift Cards
7) Kids getting upset when I close our chapter book during read aloud time
8) Meet the Teacher night
9) Dancing like a fool in front of my class
10) Seeing how much kids can improve

It was a great teaching career.  Now, for my next chapter-teaching these cuties:

Three Months

12 May 2016

Dear Daughters,

Three months old! It's hard to believe that you're getting so big. You are both much more alert now. You love to stare at the ceiling. Nobody understands why. You are also starting to smile. It's the best! You even have little dimples now. 

We are excited that you are spitting up less. You still get us good on occasion though. This morning E spit up on Dad right before he had to leave for work. He changed his shirt and then you spit up on him again! So, he had to change one more time before going to work. I was laughing so hard.

Today your Grandma Jones brought over your beautiful baby quilts. She has been working on them for months. She worked on the hand stitching part over time while watching you as I took some short naps. And what did you do to thank her? Well, L had a diaper ‘blowout’ that got all over Grandma’s pants. She had to wear my clothes while hers dried outside. 

You are starting to sleep for longer amounts of time at night. Dad and I could not be more ecstatic about this! We love taking care of you, but we also like to sleep. :)

You two really are so amazing. I just love you so much. You are so sweet. I can't get enough of cuddling with you. I know that's something that I will miss a lot when you're older. 

Love ya!

Mom