Reflecting: A year through my eyes

As I sit here in my humble abode , it's hard to grasp the fact that my year with my Grade 2's has far too quickly come to an end. This year has been filled with challenges that have seemed impossible at the time but with some guidance and encouragement , I have been able to achieve so much more than I ever thought possible. This year has also been the happiest year I have experienced so far, so much love , so many hugs and so much warmth in my heart. This does feel like a goodbye in many ways , even though I'll be back next year. Things will be different , but different can also be good.

I remember two months into being at NHCC, I was struggling , wondering if this was for me , if I was the right person , if I could do it. But it was, I am and I did. Part of me considered leaving just out of fear but I am so glad that I didn't and that my love for NHCC and these beautiful children outweighed my overthinking tendencies because that would have been a tragedy. I would have missed out on so many beautiful moments that will forever be engrained in my mind and heart.

My Grade 2 class has been a dream ( well except for when they're not). These children have made this first year just the best year ever. Their hugs, their smiles, their desire to learn. Seeing their growth has been the biggest gift. Starting the year with very little expectations , I can honestly say that each of them have blown my expectations out of the water. Thank you Grade 2 for making me feel loved and respected every day, being your teacher has been the best decision I ever made. You will forever be my original babies. It's because of you that I am so excited for another year at NHCC.

And then there's my friends. My possums.

Hannah, you truly have become my (soul) sister. The amount of times we have cried together. Thank you for opening up my mind to so much more. You have made this year fly by. I can't put into words how much I adore you. Thank goodness we still have another year together ( and hopefully many more).

Mike, you have made this year so great and your constant advice and support is just what I needed. You also give me that tough love which we both know I need on occasion. You add so much to NHCC and we are all so lucky to have you and I am so damn happy that you'll be back next year. Our early mornings have definitely been something that I look forward to ( even when you haven't had enough coffee). You , my friend are just a joy to be around.

Then there's Kimmy, you give so much of yourself to everyone and truly are the perfect example of a selfless human. Thank you for making this year feel so easy. Your energy and presence will be so missed.

I have such a bittersweet feeling that the year is coming to an end. The tests are finished and my classroom is pretty much packed up. I couldn't be prouder of my Grade 2's and how they have soared. I will definitely be that teacher crying at Graduation tomorrow.

Sitting here with all the gratitude possible. What a year. What a truly beautiful, amazing, incredible year.

( A picture from the first day of school).