What I learned in middle school today...

Today was my first day back with my 6th grade kiddos after two weeks of missing their hilariously sarcastic, sweet, and brilliant little selves. I don't think most of them knew I was coming back today, so it was awesome to see the surprised looks on their faces when they walked into the classroom! I got so many hugs and "You came back!"s. It reminded me exactly why I'm doing what I'm doing. :) Even though I'll only be with them one day a week for the next 3 or 4 weeks (and then 4 days a week until winter break! *happy dance*), I'm ecstatic that I'll be seeing them every week now.

In the eight hours I was at the school today I learned a lot:

1. Sixth graders will let you know when you're being unfair, intentionally or not. Having to field questions like "Why does so-and-so not get "homework opportunity" when you gave me "homework opportunity" for doing the same thing?!" really allows you to take a look at how your actions are perceived.
2. Not all teachers are always nice or tolerant.
3. A lot of teachers are, though. I met and worked with so many kind, giving, and helpful teachers and faculty members today.
4. Students will over-share.
5. I will have to bite my lip to keep from laughing quite a bit.
6. I will let myself laugh even more.
7. Sixth graders can be more thoughtful than you could ever imagine.
8. This is going to be so. much. work. Success will not happen easily, but it will happen.
9. I am so ready for this challenge.
10. Teaching young adolescents is certainly a labor of love, one I accept gladly.

As I lay on my couch eating my weight in chocolate resting and relaxing after a long day, my heart is so full of love and joy that I'm finding it difficult to contain myself. Today was not perfect, nor was it full of only happy experiences. There were difficulties. But it was exactly what I wanted, and so much more. :)