I have so much to be thankful for, but this week I feel compelled to take time to express gratitude for the families of my students.  This week I’m thankful for…

• the mom who says, “Of course.” each and every time I ask for her help
• the mom who speaks and moves with gentleness, reminding me to do the same
• the family who prays for me every night
• the father who sought me out at church last Sunday to tell me what a privilege it was to have their son in my class and then bear hugged me.  Twice.
• the grandmother and aunt who emailed me letting me know how our class musical gave their little one a time to shine when she most needed it, when the family needed something happy
• the grandmother who left a voicemail for my administrator telling him that I’m turning children into writers
• the father who came to school early to thank me for instilling confidence in his son
• the family who tells me they love me every time I see them.  From the grandmother right down to the children, they end each conversation with, “We love you, Mrs. McCauley.”
• the father who peacefully agreed to disagree with me because he wants to show his son what respect for authority looks like
• all the parents who gave of their time every week to love my little ones

As I go into the last couple of days of school, my heart is filled with gratitude and love for these little ones and their parents who have made me feel like a member of their families.