A few years ago I noticed that my family Christmas tree was becoming inundated with teacher ornaments.  Each one was so special to me, and I couldn't imagine not hanging them, but they really were taking over our tree!  I decided to put up a second tree- my "Teacher Tree" - perfect to display all of the ornaments my students have given me over the years.  

           It brings me such joy each year as I place each ornament on my tree.  I have ornaments from children who were in my class over 25 years ago!  The above ornament is from a very special student, Lori.  Every single year I think of her and I can't help but smile when I think of the sweet, little 10 year old girl she once was, and the beautiful woman she has become.  It warms my heart!

   
     I also love when I get an ornament from a student that goes with the class theme.  I have ornaments from so many themes, including one from the penguin year, the lighthouse year and the fish year!

   

     There are so many days when I feel overwhelmed and exhausted by my work.  The moments I have that remind me of why I do what I do are so meaningful to me.  Taking a moment to think of my former students always inspires me to keep on going and to do my very best for each child that I am blessed to teach.