What a day

I really love my job. In fact, Mike says that I have an unnatural enjoyment of my job. I do wake up like most people and wish I didn't have to go - but it's mostly because I LOVE to sleep. I enjoy my job because it is very rewarding - very sad and stressful at times but VERY rewarding.

Today I took 30 kids whose families are struggling financially to get new winter coats, warm clothes, socks, underwear, and shoes. I will be taking about 15 more next week to do the same thing. This is always one of my favorite days all year. It is very stressful because we are leaving the building and something could always go wrong. But I feel so good that these kids are able to get some nice clothes that they feel good wearing to school.

Many of these kids are not able to get new coats each year and have to resort to wearing their old coat that is dirty or too small. Their clothes are often dirty, too small, or worn thin. Being able to get a few new things is such a self-esteem boost for them. For example, one boy that is new to our school this year has a "don't-bother-me-attitude" much of the time. Once he had tried on the new clothes, he was all smiles. What a change!!

Well, many of kids that went with me today have gone to this in the past and the organization that does this for the kids usually gave them new backpacks in addition to the clothes. This year, they chose to forego the backpacks in order to provide for more kids (which, I think, is a great thing). But many of my kids were expecting backpacks and are really in need of a new one. So, I called our PTA treasurer to make sure if I purchased some bags that I would get reimbursed - and I will. So, thanks to our PTA these kids will still get what they need!! What a great day - stressful, busy, tiring - but FANTASTIC!

TLA