Feeling loved

I headed into work for the first time since having my baby. I was worried that I would have mixed feelings. I love my job and the kids that I have worked with (both past and present). It is truly a home away from home for me. On the other hand, I am loving the time that I'm getting with my little one and look forward to having the rest of the year with her.

Today, my oldest son was performing on stage. I wouldn't miss that for the world...so off I went with my brood this morning. With A only being 2 weeks old, I wanted to try and stay away from the germs. I hid in the staff lounge until the assembly began and then slipped in to watch T. Just like every other parent, I beamed while watching my son...proud to claim him as my own. He rocked out with his air guitar and air saxophone, and I smiled and giggled along with the rest of the crowd.

As I was walking back to the car with A, I was stopped by a parent. She oohed and ahed over A. We chatted about life briefly and then she asked what my plan was for next year. I honestly told her that I haven't decided what my plan will be for next year. There are so many things to consider and I still have time before my deadline hits. She encouraged me to take a year off to enjoy my children.

"You'll be welcomed back with open arms when you are ready to come back. You are one of the VIP teachers here.", she said with a huge smile on her face.

"You are so sweet.", I replied with a new hue of red in my cheeks.

"No really, I've heard that from several parents and have experienced it myself. I'd be delighted for you to have J again in the years to come. "

I thanked her for her kind words and headed back towards the car...a smiled plastered on my face. Teachers may not get paid much but what we lack in monetary value, we make up for in love from our parents and children. I am so blessed to work with amazing children and their families. And even more than that, I am blessed to love what I do and to be excited about the career I have chosen.