- that's MY cat!!! It's the amazing and wonderful Chloe!! What a magnificent animal!! So cute! So sweet! Yeah Chloe!!
- This photo was taken in my house!!! Yes, MY house!! Scary, right?? No need to worry. This lovely student is friends with my daughter. They were hanging out (with Chloe, apparently) last summer.
- Speaking of my daughter, this photo includes her, looking hilariously grumpy (and with an apparent squished head). Sadly, she insisted that I crop her out of the photo. Boooooo! (Oh well, she'll never know if you ask me to see the photo at school)
- The other living being in this photo is the fantastically special Blaga!!!!
And today is the fantastically special Blaga's birthday! I am hoping that she has a great, great day. She deserves it. She is a kind and thoughtful person. Each and every class, as she is leaving, she always says "goodbye" to me. Every day! Even on days when I'm grumpy or angry or irritable. She always says goodbye. It's a small gesture but it has become a very special part of my day. What will I do next year when entire days pass by with no "goodbyes" from Blaga? I don't like to think of such things (maybe a photo posted by my door with her waving at me?). I will really, really miss her...
I remember last year when Blaga's class had a TOC when I was away. When I returned I found out that the TOC and Sophia K had gotten in a "little" argument (something about a cell phone, right SK?). And I remember how angry Blaga was about it. I think she may have even given the TOC a piece of her mind. While I don't condone berating VSB teaching staff, I do remember being touched my Blaga's loyalty to her friend. I believe, in the four years that I have taught Blaga, that this was the only time I have ever seen her angry. She is truly a gentle soul. And - obviously - a good person to count as one of your friends.
Have a great birthday Blaga! I will ALWAYS remember the date of your birthday (for obvious reasons). And, every October 5, I will think back to that kind and generous girl who I got to teach in grade 9, 10, 11, and 12. Lucky me!!
Thanks for being so awesome, Blaga!!