Back to School--Again

Monday, I went back to school again.  It was great to be back.  I had an excellent sub who kept the kids in line.  They were so happy to see me.  It was much better coming back this time because now I know my kids and they know my routine.  It was a much easier transition. 

Today is Thursday and they finally noticed the incision line on my neck.  One kid said--You have something on your neck.  I told him that is where the doctor fixed my neck.  So another boy said--The doctor cut your neck!  I said--Yes, but then he sewed it back together!  They were satisfied with that.  It was probably a much funnier conversation in person.

I feel great.  The voice is fine and holding up in work.

The Power of the Smile

The other day, I received an email about smiles.  It reminded me that I had wanted to write about this topic and never did.  I know that in a previous entry I wrote that I smile more now.  And that is true.  For a long time before I was diagnosed, I stopped smiling as much as I used to.  Everything seemed like such a big deal and I just didn't smile as much.

When I was sick and being treated, I tried to smile even when I didn't feel like it.  It let everyone around me know that I was OK.  A smile is like a gift to those around you.  It can take the worry away from those who love you, it brightens the day of strangers, and it makes you feel better about yourself when someone smiles back at you.

Now, I smile all the time.  And I notice that people notice it too.  Of course passing strangers will smile back.  In school, I've been called "smiley" and told that my smile will be missed while I'm gone by other teachers.  It is so amazing how people respond to the smile.  I know it may not seem like such a big deal to everyone, but it really is a gift to others.

 

Daily Reflections

If anyone is interested, the web site for St. Therese is now offering daily reflection email.  The link is:

http://www.littleflower.org/devotion/reflectionemail.asp