Overwhelmed

     Sixteen years ago I accepted a job that has brought me in contact with some of the most amazing people I have ever known.  Nine teachers had to shift their job responsibilities to help cover my job, and they did not blink an eye.  When I apologized they just stated this is what we do.   But there are so many other places of work where that is not the culture.  My students have dealt with this with some of the most strength and courage I have ever known.  I have gotten some of the most strong squeezes today from students and some of the most kind words of support.  Then I walked into my friend's room and literally saw way too many gifts and cards to help send me off.  I was blown away! 

    Right now I am sitting staring at the table that is overflowing with gifts and cards that people spent the time and effort to put together and honestly just overwhelmed. I am continuously questioning what I did to earn the love, thoughts, and prayers of all of these people.  I had so many people in the past few weeks reaching out and I am so beyond thankful it is insane.  

    It was strange to walk out of the school today knowing that I would not be back this year.  It was hard to give some of the hugs I did knowing I would not see some of the students again.  But here we go.  It was hard to say goodbye to some of my friends.  Lots of tight hugs today...

    We have just over one week and the countdown is really getting real.  A week of spoiling my babies and spending quality time with them snuggling and giving them all the love in the world. One more test at Rush and one more at Elmhurst.  Then it is time.  April 1st, can not come soon enough and it can also slow the heck down at the same time.  Conflicting emotions over here if you can tell.  

    I love the people I work with and the students I teach! The quote that is ringing in my head today "Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength while loving someone deeply gives you courage."-Lao Tzu