What keeps me going

This week we finished the science fair and parent conferences (whoa, what a week!)
Feeling pretty stoked right now.
A few days ago I was asking myself "how are you going to do this?" But I survived. If you're wondering how a highly distraught individual like myself made it, here's how:
I have all the supports I need to get me through weeks like this one.

Let's start with something that I hope you too get your first year of teaching. I call them amazing classroom parents.
That's what I got and holy smokes am I grateful for it. They've made this year such a pleasure and their smiles and genuine thank yous are so appreciated. I had one mom create an adorable outfit for our class moose. Another parent gave our class a brand new CD player after he heard that our old one was skipping. These parents make amazing chaperones and bulletin board designers. Their gratitude and involvement is simply uplifting.

I am also incredibly lucky (and not ashamed to say) that my parents didn't boot me out of the house after I finished school. Living at home this year has been sah-weet. Thanks, Ema and Aba!
Plus, my mom is a teacher too. I wish I could express how amazing she's been. Unfortunately, there are no words that could really articulate how lucky I am for all the lesson ideas, teaching tips, and middle eastern meals she's so good at cheering me up with. 

When I'm stressed out, I get these ridiculous migraines. Literally feels like sharp knives are jabbing at my skull. I had one this week and my amazing staff made and delivered me a cup of coffee. Caffeine is magical because the migraine shriveled away faster than it usually does. So yes, not to brag, but for a first year teacher, I'm pretty freaking lucky to have the best staff in the world. Not only that, but every ounce of advice I've gotten from them has worked.

I also have my boyfriend to vent to when needed. And he always listens. I don't know why he puts up with it, but he does. Thanks, pookie. I love you.

Sorry this isn't exactly advice. More like things you should pray for your first year lead teaching. It's hard dealing with everything on your own, so if you can find at least one person to keep you going, especially when all you really want to do is hide under the covers and sleep for a few months, keep your chin up and remember you're not alone in this.