The school year ended with a bang! We all enjoyed the final assembly and the teachers and I put on a bit of a farce song. We sang to the tune of "The 12 Days of Christmas" but changed it to the 10 years of schooling. I was Grade 3, of course, and I belted out this somewhat operatic version of my words, "When I was in Grade 3 my teacher said to me, I'm in love with Batman, and line up properly." It was supposed to be a joke, to entertain the older kids. However, the reception I received afterward was amazing! I was told I was on my way to becoming an opera singer and all the like! What fun for me!

We had to say good bye to Richard as well. We all pitched in and bought him a cashmere sweater to remember us by. It's something he'll use all the time and think of us every time he puts it on. I said a few words, thanking him for his energy, his dedication to me and my projects. His accolades and all the encouragement he had provided for me. I feel, under him, I have grown as a teacher. It is a wonderful feeling to feel so supported. Initially, when he'd approach me about anything, I always assumed I was in trouble! He immediately recognized my "guilt complex" and was very careful as to how he approached me. Soon, we were just prancing into one an other's office and exchanging ideas, photos and the like. I think I have only myself to thank for, for the guilty conscience. It does spill over, even when you know you haven't done anything! I have felt the similar support from so many people this year. Richard, Donna, and especially Sue. She sent me a cute note saying she has seen how I am with my students and knows that I am going to be one heck of a teacher. That made my day. Plus, it's still something to strive to achieve. I know I'm not the best teacher around, despite what my students say! I have a ways to go, and many experiments to undergo. I tried a few experiments this year. Some of them worked out amazingly, others fell flat. It's a learning curve for me, and I feel I'm already on the arc, upward!

As for last night, once again, oh what a night! My last day being a first year teacher! I went out by my self and read my book, had some pizza. Then I went to the Grand Khan. I had a beer and read, but this woman sat across from me and was constantly cracking her gum. I got annoyed, I suppose being a teacher and hating gum, anywhere, so I decided to leave. On my way out who should I run into, but all the other teachers! They called me over, I had a beer with them and then a couple who I haven't met yet and I decided to go out dancing. These two are probably the best married couple I've ever met. They are still so in love after 2 years of marriage and happen to be some of the coolest people I've ever met. That is what I strive for in a relationship, that unabashed loving and acceptance.

Regardless, we danced all night and had a great time! I have never been to the place we went, which is called "Strings." There was a live band and I danced with my new friends, and once again, made some new ones. I even got a phone number! Dare I call?

This morning, I have to admit, I'm not at my best. I hardly slept, but seem to be on that school clock still. I think I need a nap!