love and chicken nuggets

This week has been a hard week, for several reasons.  So rather than go into that, I decided to share some things that have made this hard week brighter...

1)  Sometimes my students make me little cards.  But today I got a really special one.  I had seen this girl working on it for several days.  She's very artistic, so she was working really hard on making it look nice.  And she finally gave it to me today, very proud.  And I thanked her, and took it to my desk to read a little later.  And later, when I opened it, I almost teared up a little.  It said the typical "you are a great teacher", which is sweet.  But the standout line was, "I love how you love us."  That's the main reason why I'm here.  Yes, to teach them.  But mostly to love them.  And sometimes I'm afraid that message gets lost.  Lost in the discipline, lost in my times of frustration and impatience (because they do get under your skin sometimes).  But it was encouraging to hear this girl say that it doesn't get lost.  They know I love them.  And it means something to them.  And it was a reminder to me also, of why I have this job.  Sometimes that can get lost for me in the midst of craziness, and lesson planning, and grading, and observations, and the list goes on and on.   But life slowed down when I read that line.  Helped me to remember what's really important. 

2) On a less serious note... the kids were packing up today, and at least in my class, packing up time is slightly more chaotic than the rest of the day.  So I look over, and one of my little guys was bent over moaning.  And I asked out loud what happened.  And another boy said,  " I think it was his chicken nuggets."  (And he was referring to a body part, and not a food).    I didn't quite hear, so I asked what was said, and another little girl responded, "his chicken nooggets."  Emphasis on the "oo" sound.   Ah, makes me smile.

In other news...
- it is freezing here already. 
- "stupid" is still a curse word to second graders
- pray for me if you think of it.  There is a lot going on before Thanksgiving.  I'm in charge of chapel tomorrow.  Next week a guy comes from the States to observe the whole school for certification procedures.  It's kind of a big deal.  And I'm  one of the teachers that has to participate in a group teacher interview with the guy.  And then I'm supposed to have my formal observation by the school administration next week.  And progress report grades are due.   But it's the little things right?