Treasure From Christmas Parties Past

I should be bustling around trying to get everything ready for this weekend. Instead, I feel like I've been put into slow motion and can't quite get anything done. You would think I have all the time in the world to finish laundry, wrap presents, shop for snacks, go to the library, take in the trash, and pack. But I don't have all the time in the world. I've got tonight.

Blame it on the day. The day before Christmas Break was one of my favorite days at school. That and the Last Day of School, of course. The day before Christmas Break, though, always brought parties and cupcakes and candy canes and presents for the teacher. And I've got to admit that last part was always my favorite.

The things a student gives their teacher. Doesn't really matter if it was third grade or junior high (and I've taught everything in between), those gifts can get pretty interesting. I've got coffee mugs and ornaments, pretty pins and Christmas stockings... once I even got a shark's tooth in a box. I always labeled everything so I wouldn't forget who gave it to me and have every card in a ribbon-tied stack. I think the best part was always watching their face when I peeked in a gift bag or read a card aloud. Every kid wants to feel special. I hope I always made them feel that way.

And that's that. I can hardly see for trying not to cry now so I best move on. I miss those days, but I thank God I had them.

It's time to focus on the laundry.