A message from the heart

I've been back in the village for over a month now. It has truly been an emotional roller coaster for me. From the happy reunions to not getting to say goodbye to some of my kiddos to saying some sad goodbyes to dealing with separation anxiety of having a new class and realizing just how much I am going to miss my old kiddos.

The day that I arrived back in PP , I was lucky enough to see and be welcomed back by one of my very best friends while we waited for the last part of our trio. Such happy times. A little sad , because only a few days later this special friend had to fly back home for a bit. Not having him here was so hard. Not only is he my go to for every possible thing but he is also just such a ray of sunshine. Very very happy because Mike gets home in three sleeps.

Just as I arrived back in the village, I was greeted with many happy faces and hugs but also with the news that two of the amazing boys from my class had left. They had gone with their family to Phnom Penh. Really great for them but selfishly sad for me. These boys were two of the kindest souls ... I will always miss them!

A few days later , the beautiful twins were leaving. Grateful that I had a chance to say goodbye and give them one last cuddle. Their beautiful faces will always be missed.

I find comfort in the fact that these children have good families and will be looked after. Keeping them in my heart always.

Last year I was lucky enough to teach a group of 16 amazing children. I could not have asked for better, even when things were tough , their smiles and hugs made it so worth it. Now it is time to let go and set them free as they go to Grade 3, which is so much harder than I ever thought. Having that fear that I will become old news and not as important to them. Teaching at NHCC allows you a much stronger bond with the kids which makes it even harder when you have to let go. I care so deeply as if they are my very own children. I feel so protective of them , they will forever be my babies, but now they can be my friends.

Okay, here goes ( with tears in my eyes), I want to say thank you for everything you gave me, being your teacher was the biggest privilege. Now it's time for Grade 3 with your new teacher. So beyond proud of each of you. Holding each of you in my heart always! Boy oh boy , I am going to miss you!