I have three drafts of updates from the past two weeks– both abandoned because I didn’t like the direction they took, I was too tired or apathetic to make sense, I couldn’t put the energy I wanted to in. I will update briefly: last week was very difficult to get through, but I got through. This week is three days long but today I had a sub to go observe other teachers (blessing!!). Between observations, one of my students who is painfully quiet all of the time pressed a folded piece of paper into my hand. Sunday I saw her sing with two other students in a youth choir an hour away at a wonderful Baptist church. Here is what it said:

A Story About Mrs. Lampinen

There once was a lady named Mrs. Lampinen, she was always nice, well-dressed, and cares about everybody.

Mrs. Lampinen showed that she was nice. She showed nice by teaching us, and getting us our education. Also, she gives us second chances, so we can fix our behaviors. Mrs. Lampinen is so nice. I love her.

Mrs. Lampinen, comes to school every day well-dressed. When Mrs. Lampinen comes to school, she has on some cute clothes, and shoes. She dresses real nice and pretty.

Mrs. Lampinen, is a very caring lady. She cares about our education. Also, she cares because she wants us to get our education we need. She’s always caring for somebody. She’s a supurb teacher.

I love Mrs. Lampinen, because she’s nice, well-dressed, and cares about everybody.

Love you!!!!!!

(The last line is about six lines tall.)

And that, my friends, is why I refuse to let my apathy or bad attitude or frustration get the better of me. That is why I teach (For America).