Teacher Leaders

My week in DC was a complete whirlwind! I did so much, met so many people, learned so much that I don't even know where to begin. Here's what I can best remember.

1. I'm not a people person. Loud, abrasive people are super annoying. They don't even have to be on the soccer field; I will still recoil from attention seekers. 

2. I've never been more excited to see my boys and hear country music blaring from Tootsie's than I was today. 

3. If I lived and worked in DC, I would need a completely new wardrobe. I'm certain Ann Taylor would be my new best friend.

4. I'm not the only one who has a strong opinion about education. I'm not the only one who has been stifled for so long that our voice has almost been silenced.

5. There are still good people working in DoDEA headquarters.

6. I have the best job, the most meaningful job in the world!

Missing Mom

I'm TDY this week in DC for a teacher leader conference for DoDEA teachers of the year. I had not been gone for seven hours when Keagan called. "Mom, Dad messed up the potatoes. When are you coming home?" 

Last week Keagan came to my room crying. I asked what was wrong and he told me I just couldn't be gone for a week. "Who will help me with my math homework? I have an A. I can't risk losing my A because you aren't here to help me." I reassured him he would be fine, but then he said, "I can't eat pizza six nights in a row. Please tell me you are cooking all of our meals and putting them in the freezer."

The poor guy misses me, or maybe just my cooking. It's good to know I'm missed. I wondered if the boys would be able to handle my absence. The multiple texts I receive every day have almost convinced me that I'm irreplaceable. 

Tonight I had dinner with an old friend.

DC was perfect tonight. Beautiful pink sunset. Ducks in the water quacking. Friends by my side. And I briefly thought, "I could totally live here again." Be assured that feeling was short-lived. But I'm enjoying every minute of my six day visit!