I didn’t think I worked that hard this week, but apparently my body has filed a formal complaint. Everything hurts, my cane has made a dramatic comeback, and on Thursday, I came home from work and immediately powered down like a laptop at 1%.
What a crazy, busy week at school! I packed up my classroom, sorted through the end-of-year clutter, and even started working on lesson plans for next year. But the true highlight of the week was watching my eighth graders graduate.
It is always bittersweet watching them move on to high school. I feel like a proud Grammie cheering them on, but at the same time, it feels as if my little cubs are wandering off into the big wide world. They are ready, of course, but that does not make it any easier to let them go.
This graduation was especially heartwarming because I had the chance to visit with a former student from my very first year teaching at the middle school. His niece was in my class this year, and somehow, we did not make that connection until graduation night. Seeing him all grown up, with a sweet wife, two adorable little boys who look just like him, and a business of his own, truly touched my heart. I was so proud of the young man he has become.
Now I have two more days of school left. I will spend them attending meetings, finishing up odds and ends, and working on lesson plans for next year. After that, I am looking forward to summer, rest, and some much-needed time to recharge before another school year begins.
I am also excited because I have made a few plans. I am looking forward to camping, visiting with friends, and enjoying a slower pace for a while. And underneath it all, I feel a little spark of anticipation, as if something new and exciting is just around the corner.
Life is good. Oh and go Panthers!