Farewell



Today is my last class at Packemin.  Although I retired in June, I have been back, teaching a morning class for the community college.  This was my way ease out of the high school.  And, I have to say, it was the right thing for me to do.

Being back on a daily basis for the past three months showed me what I should have known all along, that I did the right thing by retiring.  I still get goose bumps when kids from last year gives me a big grin, a hug or tell they wish I was their geometry teacher this year.  But, people like Norm were right, I don't miss it.  I think I am going to like not having to leave my warm bed on cold mornings to face the ice and snow and rain. I am not going to miss the feelings of big brother watching my every move and I am certainly not going to miss the icy cold stares from Mr. AP  (Thankfully I didn't see him very often.  I leave before he is probably out of bed in the morning).  I won't even mention all the PD I won't miss.

I was at Packemin for almost 27 years and I walked out in June the way I walked in, alone.  I'll do the same today.

Back In The Saddle

I was sorry I decided to go back to work.  Planning a lesson is not fun.  And then, when I had to turn down a trip to wine country because I had to work I really got pissed at myself.

In spite of all this, when the phone rang asking me to do a coverage today before my class, I immediately said yes and then kicked myself again as I had to put away my Nook and head out the door to class. But, when I walked out of the door with that familiar bag thrown over my shoulder, my mood changed.  Instead of a weight, I felt wings.  I walked into a class of primarily freshman, remedial math students who were eager to start their college career.To have an attentive group listening to me and to watch the expression of a woman who finally got it was wonderful.  My only regret was that I would not be with that particular group again.

After a quick dinner with my husband, I went back to teach my own class.Two and a half hours later, I walked out, exhausted, wondering how I ever managed to teach nights after working full days and feeling great, looking forward to my next classes on Wednesday, two at my new school and one here.