School's Out! AND A Special Birthday..

Finally... it is over. It was a VERY bittersweet day. I could not wait for most of them to leave, we have had enough of each other for now.. a two month break will hopefully bring back refreshed spirits and a new beginning.

But "my boy" had me in tears most of the day. In middle school, they have the graduation ceremony during the day. The 8th graders come in only for that, along with their parents, and then they leave right afterwards. So the morning was uneventful with my 6th & 7th graders, we played a few games, chatted for awhile, and waited for the graduates to come in. When he got there, he was smiling that big grin that I love and looking as handsome as ever in his new suit. I pinned on his boutonniere, took some photos and sent him on his way to the ceremony. I don't often get to attend the ceremony, since I have other students still in class during this time. So I sat at my desk and wrote him a letter. I want him to know how proud of him I am, and remind him of how far he has come in the last three years with me. I had so much I wanted to say to him, and knew it would mean more to him if he had my words on paper. So I wrote. By the time I finished the ceremony was over and he came back to say goodbye. He was solemn and didn't say much. He handed me a gift and a card that I will treasure forever. I put the letter in his pocket and told him to read it later. I cried, he gave me a big hug, I made him promise to continue to fight the challenges in his life, and to always be aware that he does have a family and that we will always be around when he needs us. It was heart wrenching when he left.

When I met with his caseworker last week for our final meeting, she promised to keep in touch and provide me with updates to his case and his progress. (which she doesn't really need to provide) But this woman, who has become as much a part of my life as him, is an angel that I will also miss greatly.

So it is over.... SCHOOL'S OUT FOR SUMMER!!!!!! I can't wait to go to bed and NOT set an alarm.....

Today is also My Nan's Birthday. She is 81 today. I love this woman more than she will ever know. She is a strong, beautiful woman that I cherish and a part of my best life memories. She is Julia's namesake. My wish for her on this birthday is that she is filled with love, happiness and health. I pray everyday that she will be here to meet her great-granddaughter so that Julia will know the amazing woman whose name she will carry on.

Happy Birthday Nan, I Love you Always!

~G'Night