Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Last week, I was stressed.  Like had a full-blown panic attack for no real reason stressed.  If people only knew what it was really like to be a teacher.  I love the kids with all my heart, and if that was the only part of it, things would be fine.  But the sheer amount of planning and paperwork and just stuff in general sometimes makes me wonder if I am in the right place, the right profession.  I don't really know what I would do if I wasn't a teacher, but I go through phases of feeling really adrift.

But my weekend was pretty much the best remedy ever for all of that.  Being with some of my favorite people in the world, particularly with The Chicks, is that kind of restorative.  Maybe it's just that laughter is good for the soul.  Maybe it's the middle of the night grilled cheese making dance parties.  Perhaps the Wheat Thins or singing along with the band.  The wine didn't hurt.  But from the moment we were all together again, that weight lifted off my shoulders.

It didn't hurt that it wasn't just a reunion of my favorite girls.  There were some of my other favorite people with us at various points, as well.  I got to talk to Crys and find out about Little Navajo.  Tara's brother and sweet girlfriend were in.  Timmy showed up.  It was enough like old times that it was fun, but it's also fun to watch everyone grow up too.  There's something to said for the familiarity of old friends, old stories, new memories.

It was just what I needed.  And we aren't done yet.