Two events to make me feel better when I start hating my life later this week:

Last week, one of my crazy, obnoxious ringleader boys in Period 3 suddenly remembered it was Teacher Appreciation Week in the middle of class. He said, “Hey, I should say something nice to you, huh?” I restrained my shock at such a possibility and let him continue. He then announced, in front of everyone, “Well, I’d have to say that you are very, very, VERY patient.” I laughed. He was serious. I’m so impressed that he recognizes how shocking it is that I let him back into my classroom every day (and I’ve only screamed in his face that one time…).

Then today, I let some kids stay afterschool with me to finish a project for another class. One girl was working really hard at making something work, and I gave her some materials and offered a few suggestions. She didn’t end up using anything from me, but ultimately figured it out on her own. When she finished, she asked me to take a picture of her and the project, because “you’re the only teacher who believed I could do it.” Then she asked for a hug. I felt like I was in a Lifetime movie.