Tears of Joy

That is what one of my students said to me today---Ms. McD. You are crying Tears of JOY!!!

This picture does NOT do the flowers justice. I am speechless today for the first time in maybe, EVER? I was incredibly surprised to have my students enter the classroom-each carrying a different flower. The first boy I saw handed me a flower in the hallway and I thought, how sweet! I love gerber daisies. Then, someone handed me a rose, then a dahlia, then another daisy. I am usually pretty perceptive, but I couldn't quite put together why the students ALL had a flower. 

 A few moms were here with a vase and I was a bit perplexed as to why she had a vase...  I still could not put it together as to why, 1.There were parents in my room with a vase and 2. Why students continued to hand me flowers and hand written notes (oops, I forgot to add that part).  Then, Ms. Rowland, said isn't it great? A bouquet of different flowers for a classroom of different students.

POW.

I figured it out. They PLANNED this. Mrs. Hoff handed me a scrapbooked photo album with a picture of EACH student and a letter that was written to me from each of those students. I have to say, that I couldn't hold back the tears or get control of my emotions. I have thoroughly enjoyed my class this year. MORE than I can even begin to say. Even on days that are unstructured, full of messy art, crazy testing, not enough minutes to complete everything we started, I have loved them more than I can express to any of you.

I was also surprised with a very generous gift to Kent Station. I am truly, TRULY grateful and speechless.

I was excited for the move up day celebration that followed after I stopped crying. But, it is very bittersweet. Especially following my own daughter's graduation ceremonies last week. It feels very much like that....bittersweet for the growth that has happened and at the same time wishing for just a few more moments to teach one more thing---say one more thing---have one more memory---or even, just to hug them one more time as part of "mine".

Thank you again for all that you have given me this year. Memories, love, and a chance to make a difference in your child's life. I am humbled. Truly. Humbled.

Thank you again.

Tina McDaniel