Dream of my Dad

My father passed away a few months back of heart failure while battling lung cancer.  He entered the hospital and never left.  I was there when he died, holding his hand. I also spoke at his funeral, both of which  helped greatly in the grieving process.  The other night I had a dream that I was at a camp and when I went to turn in my luggage, there he was, helping people get settled in.  We talked for a while and he told me about the places he was going to be going next.  Then, I gave him a big hug, told him I loved him, and walked out to go to my cabin.  When I turned back, he was gone.

I woke up shortly after this at about 5:30 am and sat in the bathroom and cried uncontrollably for about 20 minutes.  I realized at that moment how much I miss him and that he is gone for good, at least from this earth.  I also realized that he is now where he wanted to be, with Jesus, and is no longer in pain.  That is a comfort, but its still hard and I guess it will be for some time.  I miss you,
Dad.

3 more days

It is hard to believe that there are only three days of school left.  This is one of those years that I really don't want to stop.  It has been a tragic year, as I lost my Dad in March. It has also been a great year in that I am halfway through my masters in educational administration.  Plus, I really like my students this year.  While that should always be the case, sometimes its just not so.  This year it is, though, and I will miss them when summer comes.  We are finishing up the year with a dissection unit.  The students are excited and working hard even with just a few days left. 

Just the other day, I saw one of my former students who was graduating.  It reminded me of why I do what I do.  As a middle school teacher, I have the chance to impact kids at a vital time in their life.  Hopefully, I do in a positive manner.