Overwhelmed

Yesterday was more than overwhelming - I don't think there is a word to describe how full my heart was when I closed my office door.

It had been an afternoon of last goodbyes - to staff and parents and to "my" kids.  

At noon I was summoned to the staff room where the administration and all the teaching staff had gathered.  My principal made the presentation - talking about how most of the staff didn't know the real "me" that I keep that "me" pretty well hidden.  But that she had considered herself very lucky to have been given a glimpse of the "real me" - the me that worked hard for the kids - put the kids first in all things - that cried when they cried and rejoiced when they succeeded.  She had me in tears.......... it's funny how I always thought I kept my deepest feelings buried so that no one would/could see ......... but she had seen it - recognized and valued it.  

Then they presented me with the biggest EVER gift basket - filled with cookies and treats and liqueurs and bubble bath and big thick towels......... and 2 gift cards that will allow me to purchase anything I want for the new house.  

I think I am a very lucky woman - to have worked in my chosen profession for so many years and walked away - head high - proud of the work I have done.  

Then two of my best friends at school "kidnapped" me and took me out to dinner... we spend 3 hours feasting and laughing and talking / gossiping.  It was more than a little difficult to say goodbye when they dropped me at my car.  

And so the year winds down.  Next week I have some paper to clear up - my office to empty and the door to lock.

It has truly been a good run!