The day I had been looking forward to but not looking forward to is here. Today is the day I dance for the last time with the group I've taught for the last 9 years. How do you separate from something you've been accustomed to for 9 years? These girls and their parents have become my family. Usually when I dance, I listen to the song over and over just to make sure I know all of the words, pauses, as well as go over the choreography in my head. The difference today is I couldn't do all of my normal practices because I couldn't stop crying. I got to the church and sat in my car to get myself and all of my emotions together.

We all met like we usually do and began getting ready. Some had to put on mime makeup while others just had to get dressed. As we are getting dressed someone says, " Janelle, Rob is here." I replied with, "Rob who?" They said, "Your brother, I remember what he looks like." At that moment I was like Rob didn't tell me he was coming and as soon as I made that statement Rob entered the room with his girlfriend in tow. Surprised is an understatement. At that moment, my immediate thought was my Mom would be so happy to know that we still support each other even though she's not physically here to see it.

As I reflect on the last 9 years of my life I have to admit that I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute. As stated in an earlier post I have always wanted to be a teacher and these last 9 years have been me living out the #1 dream on my list. The last week of school went by like a whirlwind. There was so much to do in a so little time. We had our 8th grade Social, our 8th Grade Moving On Ceremony and since we are a 6-12 school we had our High School graduation. Each one of them brought so much joy.


The social was such a sweet event. Our students dressed up in their finest and they were looking good. It was so great to see each and every one of them acting mature and looking the part as well.