Last Day(s) of School

Recently our two girls each celebrated their last day of school. It's been a wonderful year for both of them.

Ellie, our easy-going four year old, handled the event with typical nonchalance. On her last day, she had a little party, bid farewell to all her little friends, and took a goodbye picture with her teacher. Fortunately for me, I quickly discovered that my middle child seems to be just as content at home with her family as she was attending preschool. (Phew!)

My first-born has been another story. Lindy's last day of school was preceded by countless (oh-so-many) tears. Her final days of celebration were tainted by the fact that she would soon have to say goodbye to her beloved Ms. Alius. Each night she would spend several weeping moments bemoaning her fate. (I might have been less inclined to comfort her if it hadn't been for one simple fact: I was horribly sad to have to say goodbye to her sweet (and amazing) teacher as well. It's been a tough month for both of us.)

But the day eventually arrived. As the state-required hours were being tallied, the kids spent the morning playing various games and writing sweet notes to their teacher on the whiteboard.

And as the final moment arrived, more tears were shed.

Our daughter has been blessed by this wonderful woman. She went above and beyond to do her very best, every single, tiring day. And it showed. Her students LOVED her. And, more importantly, they also LOVED learning. She showed them endless kindness, patience, and love...all while maintaining discipline and order. Amazing!

Ms. Alius, you will be missed.

Now...on to summer vacation.

(Shudder.)