Last day of school

September 2010

May 2011


It was the last day of school today. Amazing how much life has changed since we started- and how much hair Madeline has finally grown! We loved the kids' teachers this year and are so sad to see the end come.

I love my husband for many reasons and this is one. He took the time last night to write a sweet note to Jack's teacher who has been so instrumental this year, one where he learned so much. Clay wrote exactly what I was feeling but would never get through the tears to say to Ms. Tricia. I am putting it here as a keepsake but also for any of you that teach- so you may know how much you affect children's lives!

Dear Ms Tricia-

We just wanted to add our own "thank you" to all those you will be receiving today. We thank you for your smile, your heart, your friendship and most of all your desire to teach and inspire Jack. We really feel blessed to have had you in our life this year. You have been more than a teacher and have effortlessly found ways to love and get to know Madeline and Virginia Ann, too. We thank you for every big smile, warm hug, kind word and short note. Your contribution will not soon be forgotten.

Jennie and I believe in the notion that "it takes a village to raise a child" and with Jack being our first, there are so many things we just don't know about and are learning as we go. We both come from loving families and have those experiences to reference, but not having any of them nearby causes us to rely greater on our "village" to help show us the right way. We feel especially blessed when we encounter those who are willing to inspire, love and teach our children. You have been a key "villager" for us this year. Jack can now write his name, count in order, identify shapes, spell his friends' names, tell me about fire trucks, dinosaurs, bugs, animals and fish. He also better understands his role as a brother, friend and most importantly a child of God. And it may be a stretch, but he seems to be starting to see himself as not just a member of a family but also of a community. It warms our hearts to know that he learned these things while in your care.

So before you finish celebrating the end of the year and begin your summer break, please know that we value your role as a teacher. Your contribution to our son's life has not gone unnoticed. We thank you for making the choice to teach and having a desire to do it so well. You are a gift to those who know you and a treasure in our life. We wish you the very best and hope to stay in touch.

Our most sincere thanks,

Clay and Jennie Councill