Blessed

As Scott and I anxiously await Leah's arrival, we can't help but acknowledge God's blessings through our friends and family... and even my students.

Through various baby showers, friends, family, and co-workers have showered us with items for Leah. I think both of us (me and Scott) have been floored by everyone's generosity. We can't thank everyone enough for all that they've done to help us prepare for Leah's entrance.

But most surprising has been my students' response. In an earlier post, I mentioned how every teacher enjoys being validated and appreciated, whether through a kind word or a thoughtful email. Recently, my validation has come in the form of my students welcoming Leah. Just reflecting on their thoughtfulness makes me smile.

I've had three former students stop by with gifts for Leah. Whenever Leah plays with the purple teddy bear or the pink penguin, or uses the handmade blanket, I'll think of Andrea, Marco, and Meghan.

And when Leah plays with her Ocean Wonders Kick & Play Gym, I'll think of my fifth period class. But there's more to it than just the play gym. Let me explain...

It seemed as if everyone was trying to keep me from heading back to my classroom too soon after lunch yesterday (I usually make it back just before the bell rings to dismiss the students from lunch). I supposedly had a phone call from my husband (who NEVER calls me at work), but when I picked up the phone, no one answered. Then, one of my co-workers engrossed me in a conversation. Finally, I made it to my classroom just before the bell. However, before even entering the room, I knew something was up. After all, my co-workers were standing outside their classrooms (and a few of my former students were, too) ---they're rarely outside their classrooms-- my door was closed (I leave it open when we go to lunch), and the lights were off. As I opened the door (just before the tardy bell, mind you), the class flicked on the lights, jumped out of hiding, and yelled, "Surprise!". Pink balloons and a "Baby Shower" banner decorated the front whiteboard. Sitting on a table covered with a pink tablecloth were a cake (homemade by Flavia), brownies, cookies, and baby shower favors. In addition, the students had stacked cards and a few gifts under the table for me to open.

I was so touched by their thoughtfulness. Even now, I get all teary-eyed re-living the moment. They were so excited about the shower and about surprising me. They couldn't wait for me to open the cards and gifts, and of course they were eager to break into the goodies. So, for a few moments during class, we could relax, eat, and just visit without worrying about SOLs or Romanticism.

My friend Jeanne and I have talked about God kisses, and this was definitely one of those. Through my students, God has reminded me that what I've given and done in the classroom has not been for naught; and even though I won't return to the classroom after Leah arrives, I know that I've left an impression on my students... and they on me.