short week at school

It's officially winter break!! YAY!!! Although I don't think it's quite hit me that tomorrow night, I'll be sleeping in VA. Weird.  When I went home for Thanksgiving, I was more than ready to go home, but this time, I feel like I could go for another month before having a break. Regardless, two weeks off is always welcome.

I guess the biggest event this week is that it was BEN'S 14th BIRTHDAY yesterday! I don't want to get all cheesy and say that I remember when he was born (because I do) because I know that Ben would just roll his eyes, so I won't.  I do have to say, though, that Ben is one of the coolest people I know. He's definitely the coolest 14 year old I know (and I now know quite a few).  Not only does he have impeccable style, he's also hilarious.  Ben has always thought he was about eight years older than he really is, but his maturity is definitely moreso than what I had when I was his age.  When my parents told me Ben was a boy and not a girl, I definitely cried, but now, I wouldn't want it any other way. He keeps me in check and is one of my favorite people.  Happy birthday Dobs! Love love love you!

This week at school has been filled with catching up from last week and trying to fit in some Christmas crafts.  It's not as bad as at Halloween, though. The crafts are much more manageable and they seem to be able to be done without a lot of help.  I'm glad I won't be there on Friday, though, because I'm sure it's going to be wild. The kids are going to be going crazy. They were really cute today when I said goodbye. I got pummeled by a group hug and lots of goodbyes. As crazy as they make me sometimes, I'll definitely miss them.

Last, here is a letter from a student at another school.  They wrote this to a Corps Member serving in their classroom as a thank you for helping them with reading.  It really puts in perspective what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Dear (CM name),


I knew the moment I laid eyes on you that you would help me become a better reader.  Thank you so much for helping me be a better reader than my dad.


Love,
(insert Student Name)


A little perspective as I go on break and think about my kids.  I pray they have a safe, happy and healthy Christmas filled with love and surrounded by loving people because that's all any of us need.  Merry Christmas!

"Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas."

-Calvin Coolidge