footprints in the sand

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Lake Woodruff

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song of praise

On your birthday I sing your praises

Which might get to be a repeating story

If not for all your new accomplishments

Bringing ever greater feats than before.

It is truly remarkable how you are thriving

Teaching elementary school students

Getting their attention and respect and affection

Giving them the precious lifelong love of learning.

I don’t have the skills needed to do that.

I hear about you doubling up last Wednesday

Teaching two classes at once different lessons

And I am overwhelmed at the thought of it.

As a first year teacher maternity leave substitute

Anyone would expect you to be struggling.

Instead you get the highest praise from everyone

Students, parents, teachers, administration.

You have been selected with two colleagues

To present at a major teacher conference this June

In your first year already appreciated for what you know

Achieving recognition far in advance of your years.

I am so proud of you but there’s more.

In the coldest February since 1934

You are alone in our house taking care of it

Keeping everything together while we’re away.

Living completely on your own for the first time

Doing everything to keep your life going

Keeping up with your friends and family

While doing this job that would consume others.

For sure we’ll be happy to be back home in April

Enjoying your company in springtime

Marveling at the capable person you are

Happy to be part of your life.

St Augustine Beach overcast windy walk

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