Pink Giraffe Musing

I am an art teacher.  I know lots of teachers.  My children will have 16 teachers combined this school year.  And yet, I don't think I fully realized the impact of teachers until recently. In some ways,  teachers have a lot of power.  They have the power to inspire, encourage, and build up; or to the power to tear down and destroy.  I like to believe most teachers aspire to be a catalyst for positive change, growth, and lifelong success. While I am a teacher.  I am also a mom.   My daughter is growing up before my eyes.  These days the growth is less physical and more emotional and intrapersonal.  She is becoming a person.  A real grown up person separate from me.  She has thoughts about her life and future that have nothing to do with my thoughts ( I don't know about you but this came as a shock to me !).  She has dreams and plans beyond the seeds I have planted in her head.  Sure, I see my hand in it. ...

To the teachers and staff of Still Elementary, who have loved my family so well: I want to thank you.  I really want to more than thank you.  I want to hold a banquet in your honor.   I want to do something spectacular.  But, all I have for you are these words, a hug, and some flowers from my son tomorrow as he walks the halls of Still…..one last time. We started our journey at Still Elementary in 2008, when my daughter began 1st grade.  Sadly, it will end tomorrow when my son finishes 5th grade.  The past 7 years of teaching, learning, creating, and growing are something to celebrate indeed.  The investment of your time and talents into the hearts and minds of my children is definitely praiseworthy.  But, for me and my family, you have done so much more.  You have loved us and held us through some hard days.  You have cared for us far beyond the duty of any educator.  You have prayed for us in our darkest hou...