Saturday, April 28, 2012

I Needed to Remember


She was as articulate 

and effervescent

as I recall.

via

While she gushed with

teenage accolades 

 her companion

silently reminisced

via
about the

spArkLING moments

they had spent in my 

fourth grade French class.


via


What I heard Annie saying

with her voice

resonated louder

in

Marie's 

moist red eyes.

And then I knew.



via


I knew that

I needed to remember 

what I had

meant to 

them as children

unknown source

and how that experience has 

affected their young 

womanhood.

via

For just one hour later

I would learn

that this year

some HIGH

parental expectations

had not been met.


via

Thus is the life 

of a teacher. 

I Needed To Remember

because the

Sparkling Moments 


via

as well as 

our misjudgements


are part of learning

who we were

who we are 

and who we are 

expected to be.


via












105 comments:

Palomasea said...

Beautiful....
:)))
Back soon,
Love you!!!
xoxo

Tara Dillard said...

You put into words what I get. Same but different medium.

Someone who's 'gotten' my books, & it's helped them. When they meet me they want to let me KNOW.

It ALWAYS includes touching. A lot of times tears. Smiles too.

Garden & Be Well, XO Tara

SuzyMcQ said...

.I don't know how you knew.... I am a parent whose high expectations were dashed. Whose pronouncements came round to nip me squarely in the behind. Life lessons continuing to be learnt despite almost sixty winters under my belt. Years do not experience make........

Laura @ 52 FLEA said...

Lovely and thought provoking...
We all need to remember and sort out the lessons that life offers us.

YONKS said...

Megan handed in her final university project yesterday. She has surpassed every expectation I was foolish enough to have. We cried together. A blank canvas awaits and she is fearful. What lessons do I give now?
Have a great weekend dear friend.
Di
X

Seawashed said...

Anita I just had to tell you that the first photo and I think the sixth are Haleigh from Making Magique blog. She is the daughter of Jermaine French Kissed blog and just began her own business in Paris called Rebelle. I follow her and her Mom's blog. She is the sweetest girl and doing such big things at such a young age. You would love her style and her newly purchased apartment in Paris.

Kathysue said...

You are absolutely amazing. I love your words! Happy weekend,
Kathysue

Burlap Luxe said...

Beautiful!
You add just the right sparkle to our thoughts, dreams,and inspirations.

xoxo
Dore

Rattus Scribus said...

Dearest,
I think you know how I feel about the current culture and its impact on education and teachers who are expected to be God: to magically create a wall between the classroom and the rest of the world, so that only children can enter it and the giant tsunami of self-centered consumer culture that chases them dashes into nothing. Then, magically again, the classroom is actually a place of learning and the instilling of humane virtues, and not just another place where the teacher is a disrespected and dehumanized customer service rep and parents, politicians, business people, and even children are the customers who are always right.

In our consumer-customer-is-always-right education, all roads lead to the teacher to meet tailor-made demands coming from endless quarters. Meanwhile, we NEVER address our cultural problems, for that would mean that the customer is frequently wrong and actually has to change their lifestyle habits.

I think those two teenaged girls (who were once 4th graders in your homeroom) who went out of their way to come and tell you that you were the best teacher they ever had and how you were there for them when the world was crashing around them, shows that you have been a grand, even life-giving teacher.

Perhaps one day, some of your currently dissatisfied customers may realize that you were the best bargain they ever had.

Love,
Ruben

mermaid gallery said...

Your choice of words and images are always soothing to the soul....yes we must remember...because that is who we were then and who we have become....

Unknown said...

We all have our own journeys...my Lillianna is on hers...how blessed I am to be a part.

Beautiful words.

Thank you <3

Angela said...

What a beautiful and poignant post. Even in midlife I can remember the amazing impact certain teachers had on how I felt about myself and the world around me. Seeing your post reminded me of them....thank you!

Unknown said...

Anita,
Once when we lived in Hong Kong this wonderful inspirational Entertainment Director was in charge of sparkling activities and adventures for the children. He inspired and gave my girls countless fun and memories. One day I met him and he was discouraged and soon leaving where we lived, I told him this...

"You have given my girls and countless others beautiful inspiration. You have left your handprint on their hearts forever."

You see, the grownups often have forgotten what is truly important. The children matter and they will grow up to be sparkling examples of your beautiful inspiration.

Karen

"Create Beauty" said...

This is a beautiful post.

In his comment, Ruben really put into words the school situation
in a way I hadn't consideredn that was an eye opener! What an environment to work in. An uphill battle for sure.

And yet, those 2 teenage girls, and countless more that you may never hear from, have been touched by your SPARKLE, and you have inspired beauty and a creative spirit and so much more.

Your handprint on their lives will be eternal.

Bless you dear heart!!!!
~ Violet

Denise said...

You Anita are the kind of teacher that We each had in some part of our education that touched our hearts as to who We will become.You may always be joyful for that,even many years from now when you look back.I know you touch their hearts.

Wicked Faerie Queen said...

Just lovely my dear friend. Trials and Tribulation is part of the Jouney that shapes us as human beings.

lovely weekend,
Sue

Kerri said...

Gosh, I'd have loved to have you for a teacher! You are so inspirational to adults, I can only imagine your inspiring gifts to children of all ages.

Have a sweet weekend :)

xoxo
Kerri

Peeters Liliane said...

Sweet friend how are you these days? Beautiful post that you wrote. You are a beautiful woman with a heart made from gold!!!
Hugs,
Liliane

Jen Beaudet said...

Beautiful post! I love what your husband wrote.
I hope that teachers regain the respect they deserve, it's not an easy job.
Have a wonderful and relaxing weekend! Hugs:)
Jenniferxox

Sandra van Doorn said...

Teachers aer so precious, they help build our youth that hope fully turns into wonderful adults... Anita i think you’d be amazing as a teacher:)
love that last photo so much,
xo sandra

Simplement ... said...

Des images ravissantes qui font rêver ...
La tour Eiffel qui clignote me fait signe, viens me voir me dit-elle !
Alors peut-être
Gros bisous belle Anita
Marie-Ange

The enchanted home said...

Breathtaking once again Anita! Sooo agree a teacher has the power to change a life and a mind in a very profoud way. There are two teachers who I sill remember who made such an impression on me....it is truly such a noble profession and any child lucky enough to have been taught by received a gift that they will only understand once they are an adult and understand the value of such an experience....so beautiful!

LeeAnn at Mrs Black's said...

I can credit my teachers with so much that is dear to me in my life, and I owe them a great debt. My love for animals, wild places, books, music and art. All nurtured by teachers who cared and wanted to make me understand what joy these things bring to us.

fee @ chipper nelly said...

Oh Anita - that's made me feel sad - as I know what a special teacher you are. I hope you aren't being hard on yourself and are following your own advice (you DO need to remember)?
Lovely that those girls came to you. When our 2 teenage foster daughters left it was under difficult circumstances - and someone said 'when they have a family of their own they will do many of the things you have taught them...even if they don't even know it was you who taught them'. The same will be said for your students.
Sending love across the pond
fee x

Red Rose Alley said...

Dearest Anita,
We always remember that one special teacher that we had while we were in school. Mine was my second grade teacher. I know that if I had you for a teacher, I would always remember your warm heart. I can just see you smiling at me when I asked you a question, as children often do. This little girl in the turqoise dress is so beautiful, and that last picture...I LOVE IT! Thank you for teaching the minds of these special little ones for so many years. You have started them on their way for preparing for this big world, and kids nowadays have so much to deal with. Have a fun weekend, my dear friend. Me and the girls are going wedding dress shopping. I do hope I find the perfect dress. I will let you know.
~Sheri at Red Rose Alley

Pam @ over50feeling40 said...

As always, sweet Anita, you beautifully communicated something that this teacher needs to also remember! God will send the encouragement just at the time it is needed the most!

BirgitW. said...

Bonjour ma très chère Anita,

Je voudrais dire : MERCI pour TOUS! Le Paquet d `americain est arrivé aujourd `hui - un jour de fête pour moi - un Paquet au bleu...j `aime beaucoûp.

Je cherche les mots pour expresser ma Joie - toutes tes Objects d`Art sont plus, plus belles et beaux et magnifiques - l `oiseau - les cartes - tes cadeaux pour moi ( les savons et la poême - Merci ma Anita - les mots manque...) YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL - what else can I say ? Having such a friendly contact to you is a great gift for me and YOU MADE MY DAY!!! De tout mon Coeur je te souhaîte un bon Dimanche et un Printemps avec plus des heures contente et Joie de Vivre - Je pense à toi - I think of You - Ich denke an Dich - ta Birgit - l`amie allemande

It's me said...

Beautiful...just like you my dear friend.....love that last picture......love you....take care happy weekend.....looooooovvvveee....xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Blessed Serendipity said...

Hello Anita. We are constantly learning about ourselves and each other and hopefully growing from all of life's experiences. There are and were special people that touched my life and had a very strong impact on the person that I am today. We ALL have gifts to share with each other. Isn't that why we are all here? I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day.

xo.,
Danielle

A Tale of Two Cities said...

What a gift you must have given them so early in their life, and how blessed you must feel to hear their gratitude and that you made a difference! Teachers--what an enormous responsibility they have, and parents--we can only pray to God that we do a few things right along the way.

Apple Blossom Barn said...

Oh Anita hold onto the words of those young ladies, said to you,they mean something, YOU have made a special impact on their life, when you have a great French teacher she does not just teach you a language she introduces you to the beauty of french living,
I adored my french teacher a real lady and a true inspiration!

Have a lovely weekend

Denise
xxxx

Bumpkin Hill said...

I know cherish those sparkling moments my granny and mum shared with me, it's not always easy to hold onto sparkle so thank you for bringing it back to me for a magical moment. Catherine x

Deana Sidney said...

I have to say, it gives me a wonderful sense of accomplishment to reflect on some of the kids I've mentored in the art department. They have gone on to success and I see some of the best of me and the things we shared in their work today... that and a strong sense of who they are which is what you need to nurture in all students. Make them see who they are, not mirror you.

Still, it feels like something of me will go on... and that I did a few good things.

helen tilston said...

Dearest Anita

Another spectacular post. Ruben's thoughts on the subject of teaching are echoed by many of our teacher friends.

I know in my heart that you have made many, many positive differences in the lives of your students. Sadly it is often years and years later that the benefits are recognized and the harvest is reaped. Mrs. Hogan was my favourite teacher between age 8-10. To this day I still say to myself "how would Mrs. Hogan suggest I handle this"I will give a hint 'always take the high road'

I know you will sparkle and glow and be a beacon for all who meet you.

Helenxx

Nella Miller said...

Dear Anita, there is no doubt in my mind that you have not only caused those children you touched to sparkle, but indeed to shine! Your boundless energy, enthusiasm and love of all that is good in this world, would only manifest itself, a hundred fold, in your profession ! I would love to have spent a single hour in one of your classes....your gift is there to receive, please never doubt that ! Much love, N.xo

Wendi @ Classic Chic Home said...

Anita, it must have been a pleasure to hear from those you have taught and mentored that you made a difference in their lives. But, your spirit MUST tell you that there are countless others who feel the same way.

It is our calling, each and every one of us, regardless of our profession, to purposefully act with the intention of creating a positive impact on the many lives we touch.

You are indeed, a fine example and a true inspiration.

Wendi

http://bitsandpieces-sonja.blogspot.com/ said...

There are some very special teachers in my past to, and I see today's world of teaching so differently. It would be so discouraging to pour yourself into your students and have so much conflict in the process.

Hold those 2 girls close to your heart, THEY are one of the best reasons you are a teacher.

xo

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

So many expectations placed upon us....how do we satisfy everyone of them..impossible!!! Our little next door neigbour boy started school...wasn't keen at all till a teacher took him under his wing and all was well in his world..then she got another job teaching an hour away as it gives her permanency in the system...little broken hearted boy...he went shopping with his Mum and bought her a gift...But what could she do Anita? She will have touched his Heart forever but I'm sure all will be well..Teachers are touched many times over too I believe...A beautiful post dearest...Much Love and Cheers to you on this very Autumny weekend...Dzintra xoxo

Hearts Turned said...

Beautifully expressed, dear Anita...as always. There is always an abundance of SPARKLE to be found here...thank-you for that...

Julie

C'est moi Claudette said...

I've said it before, and I'll say it again.... I would ALWAYS remember you if you were my teacher. Let other's perish.
I love you
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
xoxoxox
oxoxo
xox
xo
x

hi-d said...

You are so humble and gracious in taking the good with the bad, Anita! I JUST KNOW you are and will continue TO BE an amazing teacher to past and present students as well as future subbing.

Teachers have one of the toughest jobs EVER, especially in today's society where there are so many outside influences and distractions. You play not only the teacher role but parent, nurse, friend, role model, psychologist, hall monitor, classroom referee, coach, artist, entertainer, encourager and the list goes on and on. You are wearing about every hat imaginable.

What a serendipity for those 2 young teenagers to tell you how much you meant to them. I know there are TONS more out there like them...but all too often we don't tell people the good things. I'm so glad they did.

Have a wonderful weekend my friend. And thanks for always being a "sparkle" to ME.

Love,
Heidi

hi-d said...

p.s. I love Ruben's comment. Wow!!! Very eloquent!

lyon de clarasvals said...

I am sure you are as wonderful a teacher in the classroom as you are on this blog. What Ruben said was spot on.

Aldy said...

Beautiful and inspirational thoughts as always, Anita. I love every single word of this post :) And I hope you're enjoying the weekend!

Hugs <3

Such a Wondrous Place this Faery Space said...

My friend, you are a gift to this Universe. I want you to feel that down to your little toes. You are a gift. I will leave this message that my friend always tells me when I feel low...
"Remember you are loved." Blessings always, Amy

francis said...

love your new post Anita .
Sending you lots of sunday-afternoon good wishes and a big hug too !

koralee said...

Morning dear one...you are a precious gift to your students...your school...and all of those that love you so much! Teaching is a very hard job .....you can not make everyone happy all the time..you have to do what is always right in your heart! You do need to remember what you meant to your students as children ...you did and do bring sparkle into the lives of so many....YOU ARE A BLESSING!
Hugs and love for a wonderful Sunday.....remember so many Love you just how you are xoxoxoxo

Martina said...

Dearest Anita, i think, in school work, parents can be one of the hardest things to deal with. After all, you are the magic teacher and some "muggles" don't approve of magic ... The kids certainly catched some of your sparkles and that is, what counts! Chees to a lovely and wonderful sunday!

Splenderosa said...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, precious Anita...

Karena said...

Ruben, and many others are right Anita. In your new life and adventures; look back and realize how many young souls you touched! More than you will ever know!

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena

♥ Mary Janes TEAROOM said...

I have just read Ruben's words of wisdom Anita and agree completely...a teachers job has become almost an impossible one...I am full of admiration and I can only imagine what a wonderfully inspirational teacher you must be!
Hope you have a happy week,
Susan x

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Dear Anita
So sorry I am late.. Out of town enjoying the company of my children.
Beautiful post my dear friend.
I know that you have left an everlasting imprint on the hearts and minds of your young students… One that they will carry throughout their life… They have been truly blessed to have you as a teacher.
Bisous, Penny

Rae said...

How beautiful you put your words together, they flow like soft sweet scented wind upon ones face! You are so very kind, what a teacher you are!
I do hope you are feeling much better dear friend...lovely tender post!!

Anonymous said...

Absolutely perfect!
Two words pop out for me here, misjudgments and expectations. Oh, how depleting and life-robbing they are...BUT...how we grow, and how we learn to recognize who we truly are. You, Anita, are a work of art, a beautiful blessing.
It's good to travel this journey with you, love.
MUAH!
Marcia

Kerry said...

I couldn't agree more with what you said. It's so true, it always amazes me when children return, all grown up, but yet, still children and they recapture what we meant to them.

ps. Happy Birthday!!!
xo
Kerry

Dawne Boynton Polis said...

You have written a beautiful ode to your teaching, Anita. You are surely in that bittersweet place of wanting to leave, but not wanting to go. I was just reading today that every poem has a hidden line. Thank you to Ruben for supplying it.
Have a very GOOD week, and go give those kids all the sparkle you can shimmy out!!
xx
dawne

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

Beautiful post you have shared today, and I know you must be an amazing teacher. The children are so lucky to have you, with all the inspiration and knowledge you share.

Do hope that you are having a lovely weekend and wish you a happy new week
Hugs
Carolyn

lisa Moran, Bilancia Designs said...

I can only imagine the lives you have touched with your incredible kindness and contagious enthusiasm. You are the teacher young adults think about with sincere gratitude for making such a difference in their lives.
Sending lots of love your way, my friend.
I will be back with an email soon. I am SWAMPED with weddings right now...
XOXOXO

Julie@beingRUBY said...

HI dear Anita
I'm sure it is both an honour and burden to know you are impacting young lives.. and from the sound of it for the better.. It's so important to dream big when we are young.. and when we are older also!!

Lovely tribute to all teachers... and love that aqua chandelier in the banner shot.. could do with one of those!! hehe

Have a lovely week and continue to inspire!! ciao xxx Julie

Bluebells and Lavender said...

I've just discovered your beautiful eloquent blog via Art by Karena. Your paper art is BEAUTIFUL and I'm hopping over to Etsy to take a closer look - those paper slippers are lovely! Have a great week. Sharon

Barbara said...

A dear teacher is never forgotten, Anita. Even at my age, I remember the positive influence of different teachers in my childhood.
A bigger lesson is to have faith in your ability....you can't ever please everyone.

desde my ventana said...

A new great lesson from you Anita, another fabulous post
Have a lovely new week

Muchos besos

Cecilia

Leslie said...

Anita,

Such beautiful words here and you speak the truth. How lucky those children/young adults are to have YOU as their mentor and teacher.

Enjoy the start to a new week!

leslie

Pura Vida said...

gives me chills, the photos, the music, the sentiment.

Martina said...

Dearest Anita, thank you for visiting! I hope your chocolate cake tirned out wonderful and you can make something lemony this week. Only sweet things on your plate i hope - and on mine - tee hee! Tom. is a holiday here, yeepee! xox

Anonymous said...

AWSOME POST:) I really like your blog and I want to follow but I dont see twitteror FB in here??

If you want some swedish decor inspiration, you can check out my blog:)
Have a great week.

LOVE Maria at inredningsvis.se
(Sweden)

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Anitaaaaaaa, I just read your comment on Francis' blog, I did sent you a message through Etsy!!! Go check it out mon amie, will copy it ... love

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Saskia April 28 2012 7:28am EDT
Bonjour ma tendre et elegant amie, Your gorgeously aqua wand arrived safe and sound! I just love it, Anita, it's even more pretty in real than on the picture. It's on top of my black piano. The perfect spot!!! The beautiful and most of all heart touching card made me speechless for a moment. You truly are an artist, Anita. I think you're so brave for daring to follow your heart and make more time for creating art from September on.
Thank you for adding your magical touch to my home, the wand and card will be treasured for ever.
Now you go and enjoy your morning latte, it's Saturday! WooHoooo, we have rain, BooHooooo but inside the sun always shines.
Much love
Saskia xxx

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Have a happy last day of April and a lovely start to le mois de May!

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hello dearest Anita...
Another sparkling, beautiful post!!!!!
Happy Birthday!!!!!! How was your special day?
I hope you had a wonderful birthday!!!!
It was VERY stormy here all weekend- there were tornados (luckily none touched down) and tea cup size hail!!!! The news showed large hail bouncing off the Arch- that was a sight to see!!!!
I'm seriously thinking of writing a book. It would have lots of photos, will be non fiction, and not a novel...
I don't know anything about publishing a book; my husband has a few contacts at work who are published authors & he's getting advice.
I think my idea is a good one and will be about fashion...
I'm excited!!! Hopefully it works out. If not- it will still be a cool adventure!!!!
Hope you had a great weekend!!!!!
Love & Hugs!!!
Shannon :-)

Anonymous said...

Stopped by to leave you a hug here too. Still wiping my tears of joy.
MUAH!
Marcia

Jennifer Vance said...

I saw the giveaway link on the side and just wanted to let you know I really enjoyed reading your little about you,Anita! :)
And I did see your comment on my blog,just didn't get to respond back to it.I think I ended up getting the flu right around then,that's probably why.Almost well now,though! :)

Yola Thorp said...

Cute photos.

xx,
www.yolathorp.com

koralee said...

Good evening sweet friend....how was your Monday? Ours started with pouring rain and is now ending with sun and birdsong...pure joy.
Keep your fingers crossed for sun tomorrow my friend as we are off to the grade 4 and 5 track meet...it is a busy day.
Hugs for the rest of the week...xoxoxo See you when I get back.

savvycityfarmer said...

lots of sparkle here, my friend

hope your spring is shaping up to be grand

as always
moochas smoochas

Fete et Fleur said...

And that moment is what has made all of these trials worth it. I am so proud of you! I love you dear sister! I'm practicing my photo skills. Come take a peek.

xoxo,
Nancy

Ann said...

That is so lovely,
and all those skirts and hunter boots are lust worthy.
You always have amazing images.

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Thank you so much dear Anita for your lovely compliments on my latest bag...this one is for my daughter and she has no idea yet of it! I'm so pleased you like it...all the best with making one for your friend...love Dzintra xox

carolyn bradford said...

What a wonderful way of expressing what so many of us feel! And yes, it is so true that so many of us have been touched by a teacher in a way that made us excel and I so wish I had taken the time to go back and tell them! I hear from parents all the time about how my own daughter impacted the lives of their kindergarten age children and it means the world to both of us! I'm so glad I found your blog through Karena…I look forward to stopping by often!
Carolyn Bradford
VintageMulberry

Maria said...

Anita ♥
We learn anew each day ~ there are those that we affect and those who cross our paths that stay with us for a short time, others, forever *

Remember that on your head lays a crown of righteousness ~ bejeweled with the gifts, talents and soul-beauty that are especially yours. There are things about us that sometimes, those whom we work next to day after day, know nothing of. Sometimes, those across the country, across the oceans know more about these aspects of us than do those so close at hand... Yet, every day we share bits and pieces of ourselves.

Please know, that you teach here ~ in this quiet place ~ this beautiful place where we gather ♥

Anita, you are so blessed to have such an understanding husband. I would like to ask if I can share his comment to you, here in this post, with some friends of mine... He wrote so eloquently and passionately about teaching. Few know how hard it is to teach. It is such a pouring out of self...
In this culture, we often times want "microwave results." God is not in a hurry... His story of creation is still unfolding in each of us ♥
I am blessed to know you and others that live "a bit on the fringe" of this "microwave" culture.
God bless you, Anita!
always,
Maria

Paula said...

BEAUTIFUL and SO thought provoking. I LOVE your writing and the images - well, they're just breathtaking. x

jerilanders said...

Anita, I am sure, quite sure, that the lives you touched in a positive and marvelous way as "teacher" far outnumber the "doubts" of a parent or two. I will never forget my 2nd grade teacher, he had a huge influence on my future life as an artist. I still remember his happy, round face, his even happier last name and his words of encouragement. Just think of ALL those students who adored your class, I'll bet there are hundreds!

PS. 3 blonds and a Mexican! Hah! You are so funny! If you had been with us, we would have had an even bigger BLAST! Gosh, I would love to meet you and PENNY>

The BUTT'RY and BOOK'RY said...

Anita,
I am sending you a GREAT BIG GIGANTIOUSIO HUG of HUGS for always giving the BEST of your BEST in everything you DOOOOO!!!
It just spills out of you!!!
Your a BLESSING and that is that!!
(it out weighs any expectations by far) ;-)
Blessings HUGS and LOVE, Linnie

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

Lovely...your post sparkles this morning!

hi-d said...

Hello Anita,

Thanks so much for stopping by. And I hope you are having a good week! You have GOT to be getting SO giddy for school to end! I am happy for you! You asked the other day if I would homeschool Maximus. I am not sure...if we can afford it when the time comes, I'd love to be able to send him to our Church's school, Lord willing. We'll see what happens.

Okay...have a good evening my friend...and I better go get started on dinner. Funny thing, is we're having chicken!!! hahaha...don't tell Kooky, okay? :)

God Bless You!
Heidi

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Dearest Anita
I am so sorry I have been quiet on my end.. Creating, creating and creating some more... Have not been on the computer for a while.
I wanted to stop in and thank you so much for all your beautiful visits and thoughts.. I carry you in my heart every day.
Bisous, Penny

d e l i g h t said...

A beautiful and touching post! It's always a pleasure and delight to visit you. I hope your life is going better and in a good direction! Thinking of you!

wendy said...

YOU have some amazing comments here girl.
Ah the struggles of a teacher.....SOMEONE is always Not Pleased.
Want things done "by the book"
and are afraid of "reaching our for creativity",...and "expanding their minds"
I could go on and on
BUT, I say this: the students that thank you are the ONLY ones that need to be heeded. And I am sure there are many many more out there that may have not actually VOICED to you the impact you had on their lives.
That's what I'd walk away with as a teacher....

francis said...

and than there are days .....coming and going and I am a bit lost .....
Wishing I could come to your kitchentable and have coffee and ask Anita .....what do YOU think about....
Friends are important and I have been bad in friendships for a long time now.
I have been doing things on my own for far too long .
being so busy with my family and my job ...... too tired for more ....
That's not good ....I know that now......
New friends came into my life through blogging .
Very special friends I have never met in person and yet they feel so close .....
There's this magical space where we meet somewhere in the universe
I guess close to where we once were before we were born .....
Friends and friendship ......
Thank you for Yours ! from the bottom of my heart . X

La Petite Gallery said...

Anita, I am 75 and I remember some of the Teachers that made a difference in my Life. Mrs Vale
in my High school years and my Journalism Teacher. If you were my teacher I would always remember you, You my Dear one, are like the good Fairy.

Nezzy (Cow Patty Surprise) said...

I always said the students are easy, it's the parents that are hard.

I'm sad to say we have many parents not bein' parents who expect the school system and it's teachers to 'take up the slack'.

Dear heart, one can never make EVERYONE happy all the time and yes...just bask in the glow of the hearts that have lit up under your watch of their education.

I can only imagine of the hearts you've touched and the seeds you've planted along the way. Your students are blessed to the moon and back to have crossed your path!

Please don't let one back apple spoil the journey for ya!

God bless and have an awesome day sweetie!!! :o)

morikomidori said...

you are a wonder! my dearest Anita, i have missed you. i'm paying a rare and fleeting visit to blogland with hopes that someday soon i can be here more regularly. i honestly think of you each day, but life has been keeping me from the internet lately. am now going to read through more of the posts i've missed. their magic always inspires and lifts my spirit.

warmest hugs xxx

morikomidori said...

darling, i missed your birthday!!! i hope it's not to late to wish you many, many happy returns. how beautiful you are in your pictures!!! such warmth, poise and grace accompanied by a sense of fun. i have always thought you totally magical!❤

Carol said...

Beautiful words and lovely images.
Carol xx

Anonymous said...

OH, Anita, just when I thought I couldn't love you anymore. Bravo! xo

francis said...

YOU'RE
PRETTY
MUCH
MY
MOST
FAVORITE
OF
ALL
TIME
IN
THE
HISTORY
OF
EVER
*
have a wonderful weekend Anita !

Splenderosa said...

Don't Let Anyone Dull Your Sparkle.
This is my new mantra.
I love it !
Come see my Derby outfit over at my place.
xx's

Martina said...

Thank you for visiting today Anita! I just bought me sea-salt and lemons to make the scrub ;) Maybe post about it again soon! Weekned is close now - have a fabulous time dear! Have you planned anything fun? xox

michelle said...

Good evening dearest Anita! Thank you so much for visiting me, I always love hearing from you. I hope to one day open an Etsy shop. I am loving getting lost in my painting and healing and just finding me. Your post is so perfect for me, I just love it. You always know how to reach into our hearts and souls with you words, such a gift my friend.
Love to you and enjoy your weekend!
xoxoxo

Nikki said...

Lovely post as ever, you post the most beautiful pictures!

Red Rose Alley said...

Just wanted to say good morning, sweet friend. I absolutely love your Header. I think I am going to go with the turqouise dress favors instead of pink, because is there anything prettier than turqouise? She's going to have a Paris theme. Her shower is in August - when do you think I should order them? Love you,
~Sheri at Red Rose Alley

Joy Tilton said...

Those "sparkling moments of childhood" remain in our hearts... remembering special teachers just like you along the way as I read this post!

georgia ~ gi gi said...

How wonderful that they took the time to let you know how wonderful you are!!!!! Just think if everyone did!
Beautiufl post for a very beautiful soul!
much love
gi gi

Ivy and Elephants said...

Hi Dear Anita,
You know that I have experienced all that you feel and more. Know that just like our Savior, if you only reach the one lost lamb, it is precious and worthy. The classroom will be a little colder, a little drearier, and less inspired without you. But I know that your light will continue to shine and glow brighter in your new venue.
I am sending you a big hug, not because you need it, but because you are one of the sweetest persons I know!
Patti

Anonymous said...

indeed...
sparkling
and
not so sparkling
they are
moments
that do
leave their
lasting
image of us
and lessons
of the heart.
blessings
....
and you are #14
so two are ahead
of you with their
forty days....
i would plan for
summertime
art and prayer.