From full time mom....to full time teacher...

Ellie and Reid's mom in with some pre-school thoughts. I really can't believe that I begin my teacher work day tomorrow...and have Open House to meet my class tomorrow night. I jump into teaching then on Tuesday. I will be starting year #12 which is also hard to believe. How do I feel about this? I have very mixed thoughts as I sit here. I will miss these 2 little buggers more than I can even fathom right now. But, part of me is excited to get back into a routine, and get into the swing of things. I do truly love my 4th graders, too.

Being home since November has given me a true appreciation of my own mom. She was a full time mom from the time we were born. I do think that being a full time mom at home is harder than going to work at times. I have a true admiration and appreciation to all of you stay at home moms...including my own. There is nothing better and more fulfilling than being at home with your kids, and in my opinion, nothing harder!

I have been blessed beyond measure to have had the last 9 months at home with Reid and Ellie. I am truly blessed that I was able to spend every moment with them doing the best things in the world....reading, coloring, learning letters, laughing, snuggling, library time, swimming, play dates, staying in jammies until late in the morning at times just because, taking walks and bike rides, swinging at the park, picnics on the front porch, and watching Reid and Ellie become great friends as they watch and learn from each other. Reid has taught Ellie how to be patient, caring, and compassionate towards the needs of others. He has taught her that it's okay to be different, and that love is such a powerful emotion. Ellie has taught Reid how to laugh harder than I could ever imagine. She taught him how to clap all on her own. Reid admires his big sister so much, and I have been so lucky to watch their relationship grow and change over the last 9 months.

I am so glad that when I drop them off at Jen's tomorrow that they will be in good hands. I am glad that I will not have to worry about their safety or well being. Will I be sad? I think I will miss the little things that I have become so used to as I have been home. I can't believe that I will be sending Ellie off to preschool in 2 weeks, either. Life sure does move fast. I am ready to meet my new bunch of kids, and will be excited to welcome them to a brand new school year, but I will also miss the sound of Ellie and Reid's laugh throughout the day. A new chapter is starting...and ready or not....here it comes! Take good care of them for me, Jen.....and to the 24 parents that are sending me your 10 year olds....I promise to take good care of them for you. Here we go!