Today was officially my last day of teaching. I’m not sure how I feel about this. Being the planner that I am, I have known for about six months that my last day would be May 8. So why am I not more excited, prepared, ready, or relaxed about the whole thing? I had a challenging class this year and have always thought that I’d be doing a dance on my last walk to the car. Today, not unlike most others, was a challenging day behavior-wise so you’d think that I’d hit the door when the bell rang. I found myself talking to teachers I don’t usually talk to, hanging around with the kids a little longer when they were waiting for their parents, and checking my email just one more time before I shut down for the night. While this year was met with challenges, it was one that taught me a lot. Although the kiddos could be stinkers at most times, they each had something unique that I will probably remember for a long time. What a mixed bag we had!! Maica was a wonderful partner both in the classroom and with baby duty each week. I truly could not have gotten through this year without our weekly conversations about what was going in in the classroom. What is it they say, misery loves company?! 😉 So as I walked to my car with my arms filled with flowers and a special card from the kids, I realized that this is it. I’m done. When you meet me and ask me what I do, I’ll say ‘I’m a stay at home mom’. Wow, that feels weird! I am prepared for this transition to be a little rocky as I find my nitch and figure out just how to be “only” a mom. I have the most supportive husband who constantly reminds me that this isn’t my decision, but it is our decision. He reminds me that this is the best thing for our kids and that no one else can do what I do. So while I adjust to my new role in life, I have an amazing support system of my husband and mother/mother-in-law reminding me that this is going to be the best time of my life. Teaching has been good to me, but now I think I’m ready to find my fulfillment in teaching my children to be smart, loving, well-adjusted little girls.

I think I’ll enjoy the next few weeks practicing my new skills on this little stinker!