Meet the (oh, so grateful) Teacher

I woke up this morning with a feeling similar to childhood Christmas morning.  It's Thursday of "teacher work week".  So, why the excitement as the day begins?  This evening we have Meet the Teacher, a very common event throughout the country during the month of August, but it is one of those "duties" where everything I love about my job is on full display! (Last year, I missed this while I spent time with Dad in Grand Junction's ICU as reports from doctors became painfully grim.)  With much joy, this evening I have the opportunity to meet precious children who I will teach as they begin their school journey.  Tonight begins a relationship with the families where the goal is to work together to help their children grow in so many ways.    I am very grateful for this brief window (of one year) to invest in the lives of such incredible children.  The year goes by so quickly, yet, it gives us a rare blessing to encourage, instruct, nurture and rejoice with precious new friends.  As I meet these new friends of mine, with their shy and nervous smiles, I consider myself honored and privileged to be their teacher this year!