Cleaning Classroom for Checkout

So I had to give in to the nostalgia and snap a few pics when I finished cleaning tonight. I was physically at school from before 5:00 a.m. this morning until after 6:30 p.m. this evening. The rags are now bleached, washed, dried, and folded. Students can sign up for our CLASS REUNION in August (it's really a work party). The shelves are all EMPTY so they can be moved for new carpet (what a pain). And of course, I thought I should photograph the OLD carpet which was new in 2000 when I helped open the school. I remember how crisp and fresh everything was (but our school still looks great thanks to our amazing custodians). I was so happy to have matching furniture instead of the 23 different styles and colors of chairs I had in my classroom at Alpine Elementary. And then...my commencement address sits on my desk in the form of picture book presented to me by cooperating teacher when I student taught through the University of Montana. I cry every year. I love these kids so much! It is tough to say goodbye. I love Yellowstone as well, but it is always a summer without children. A month or so ago a student asked me what my favorite day was out of the whole year. My answer was, "Back to School Night!" Until then.