In yesterday’s post, I shared how nervous I was about returning to work after being on maternity leave since Thanksgiving break (thank y’all for your kind words and encouragement!!). I was worried that I couldn’t recall my 145 students’ names. When I suddenly panicked, “what if I forgot how to find my classroom???,” Kyle reminded me I make it just fine throughout the summer… and that I’ve been in the same classroom for five years (LOL). Here are some highlights from the day:

Moment that made me laugh –
Me: HEEELLLLOOO! WELCOME! I’m so glad to see you!!!
Student: Heeeeeeyyyyyy…… did …. did you … Ms., did you lose weight?

Moment that made me feel cared for –
Teammate: Do you want me to make us that pico and avocado with chips mix that I make us? Like when you were pregnant??

Moment that made me feel guilty for feeling a tinge of pride –
Student(s): I mean, the second sub was cool, and she did try… but like… The work was soooo easy, just fill in stuff, copy the examples on the top. I don’t know, you actually teach.

Moment that made me feel proud –
Past student: Aye, I ain’t been seein’ you, you just come back? My brother said you was pregnant, but I didn’t believe it.
Me: Yes! I had a whole ‘nother baby! You, where you been? You disappeared on me.
Student: Damn, another kid, huh? Well, I just got back – got outta county last week. I’m done with that stuff, decided I gotta graduate. So I’m back, got a job.

Moment that reminded me 10th graders can be compassionate –
I shared the news about my grandfather. They were absolutely silent.

Moment(s) that brought me pure joy –
Picking up Elías and Gabriel from daycare and reuniting with baby Mateo.