Talk about a crying mess!

This morning, my fellow colleagues and students caught me totally off guard.  Before the bell rang for first period, our principal called us all to the gym with no explanation.  I was called to the center of the gym floor and handed a money bag full of student and faculty donations totaling $735!  I had absolutely no idea, but my Bulldog family had been raising money by selling baked goods and Dr. Enuf's, along with accepting other donations.  Well, this momma, who tries to maintain a pretty tough exterior around these almost grown children, lost it in front of everyone.  Good thing I was already running late and didn't have on my normal amount of eye makeup!  

Randy and I can't possibly thank each person who gives to Izzy's cause the way that he or she deserves, so my simple, overused thank you will have to suffice.  As for today's surprise, I am so blessed to have my Bulldog family.  I can truly say that no matter how difficult things get at work, whether through policy changes or confrontations in the classroom - which are few and far between - I know I am surrounded by people who will care for me and support me.  That fact alone comforts me.  

For my students: bless you.  I hope you will always have that giving heart to provide for others.  A student in my fourth period said it best:  "Look out for others, and they'll look out for you."  How true.  

For my co-workers: I've learned so much from so many of you.  I've learned patience.  I've learned when to shut my mouth.  I've learned when to take action.  I've learned empathy and compassion.  You all are my second family, and I am grateful for more than just this monetary donation.  I'm grateful that I work side-by-side with the best people in this business. You are an inspiration everyday to our students, and working hard to help Izzy is another testament to your commitment to molding the minds of our current students.  They see how much effort you put into community support, and they learn how important it is to take care of others, including our own.  That's more powerful than any information in a textbook.  

I'll remember this morning as the most humbling experience of my lifetime.  

Lastly, a big thank you to my mom, sister, and nieces for helping in these fundraisers.  They baked plenty of goodies for bake sales at school.  

My goodness!  Izzy has so many people who love her.  What a blessing!