My eyes burn from reading short stories all day. I've got some kind of sinus thing going that has resulted in a three day long headache that won't go away and all I want to do is get to class tonight to see everybody. I really enjoy seeing you all each Thursday and will miss everyone next week when we have the time off. So, in the spirit of the season, I decided to post why I am thankful for each of you...

Heidi - You keep me laughing. I love your razor sharp wit and wish I had the intellect that is required to be as funny as you. You are a great source of support too. What would I do without you.

Alex - Whenever I'm wracked with worry I think of you. Not because you worry me, but because you are a model of peace and calmness. You have an amazing way of keeping things in perspective - something I deeply admire.

Brad - So quiet and unassuming. You exude confidence. I love the well placed humor you infuse into our class. Thank you.

Wendy - You are always so bright and positive. I look forward to seeing your genuinely warm smile. Plus, you love my kid and remember her after two years. That's incredible.

Joe - It's always nice to know that there is another English teacher slogging away out there. I enjoy hearing your perspectives on teaching and learning. I need to poke my head out of my middle school cave once in a while.

Carleen - You have a natural and easy kindness that I think people are really drawn to. Combined that with the logical math teacher side of you, and you are that rare person who sees things as a whole. We are lucky to have you working for our union. You get the big picture.

Roger - Gourmet snacks and endless scientific wisdom! Now there is a combination that can't be beat. You are always willing to listen to me and I appreciate that. I know I can be a whiny baby sometimes. Thank you.

Sarah - I feel like if we were soldiers you would be the exact girl I'd want in the trenches with me. You are infinitely trustworthy and honorable. I'm glad we're friends.

Mellissa - You are the spice in my life. You are the rock star I want to be. You are bold and fun and make me realize what it means to really live one's life. And, I can't forget to thank you for Aidan. She's a one in a million kid.

Andy - I can't think of another man I know who is more nurturing and thoughtful and intelligent. The kids at Semple are so lucky to have a teacher like you to look up to. We have some great laughs too.

Karen - A woman with the rare combination of intellect and artistic heart. It is so reassuring to know you're in this class with me. I hope I don't drive you nuts with questions and queries. You just know so much. Thank you for putting up with me!

Hale - You seem to be good at everything you do. You are honest and candid - two great qualities in any human being. Like Andy, you too are the perfect role model for your students. I hope they have some small understanding of that. Hopefully they say thanks once in a while.

Steve - I can't express enough how much I appreciate your flexibility and patience with me. This process of coming back into the world of being a student hasn't been easy for me. Thank you. Some day, when I grow up, I want to be as easy going and well versed in all things technological -like you!

Have a great Thanksgiving holiday everyone. Your friendships will be among the many things I am thankful for this year.