Today was the first day back to school since Christmas break. I guess we are still in a honeymoon phase, once again, because the little darlings were actually quite well behaved. And I say that with all of the understanding in the world that, like myself, they were probably just still exhausted from all the eating, sleeping, playing, napping and holiday activities. Ask me again, in a few days, how well behaved they are!
My day consisted mostly of getting back on my daily routine. It all started yesterday afternoon, when it suddenly occurred to me that I had to return to school. Crap! Like a responsible adult, I went to the store this weekend, planned meals, went over the weekly events calendar and did some pre-planning. When what I really wanted to do was throw myself on the floor and throw a full fledged kicking and screaming toddler fit! "I don't want to go back to school tomorrow!!!" I really enjoyed Christmas break and spending all my time at home with the kids. We had a great time just lying around, snuggling in our jammies, eating, napping and eating again.
Last night, I got my act together and after dinner I made lunches, laid out the kids' clothes for the morning, got meat from the freezer for tonight's dinner out to thaw and packed all my things. I knew that this morning would be a rough adjustment, so I was trying to think ahead. Look at me, being a savvy, organized, bitch! So, this morning went pretty well. The prepacking seemed to help us ease into the dreaded first day back. Everyone made it out the door, fully clothed, combed and fed on time. I actually left for school on time and was a little early. (Savvy, organized bitches rule!)
I tried to avoid seeing coworkers for as long as possible. Not because I don't like them, but I needed to avoid the How-was-your-break chit chat. I needed to make sure that I was completely ready when the students walked in the door. (I really wasn't quite sure how I had left my room before break and I was worried that I did another one of these.) Well, alas, my room wasn't a mess and I had, in fact, left it in a rather organized fashion. My lesson plans were done, copies made, January books prepared, Christmas decorations were already taken down and the January calendar was already done. Savvy.
The morning ran smoothly, even when I got a new student about 45 minutes after school had already started. I rolled with it and had her all set up in a matter of minutes. This return from Christmas break was much better than just three years ago, when I learned the hard way, not to leave your classroom in a state of disarray before break. I did find out that I am loosing one student and possibly another. And it's a bummer because they were a few of the sweet ones.
The day was rather smooth and I even left at a reasonable time. Thinking ahead, again, I ran to the store to get treats for Luci's class for her birthday on Wed. No more running to the store at 9:00 the night before! I think I'm getting better with this stuff as I get older. Being organized has become a necessity with two kids, a job and hectic schedule. Hell, with the roll I'm on, I might just get this house in order soon! Well, maybe!
What was your return to work after the holidays like?
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