The Most Wonderful Time of the Year...

Last night I went to Wal-Mart with a good friend of mine.  As we walked into the store, we almost exploded with excitement.  The school supplies were out!  I know it sounds incredibly dorky, but I LOVE school supplies!  When I see the school displays in Wal-Mart, it is a reminder for me that school will be starting before I know it.  Though I really am enjoying my summer break, a small part of me is ready to meet my new kiddos and start teaching again.

My friend and I meandered through the aisles, picking up crayon boxes, examining notebooks, and smelling crayons (you know you have done it, too!).  We were thrilled with the low prices of markers, pencils, and glue sticks, and commented on which pens we prefer.  It was like being a kid in a toy store.  Already, I was imagining students walking through my classroom doors, with backpacks full of supplies and nervous/excited smiles on their faces.  It truly made me happy. 

As if that experience were not wonderful enough, I stopped by a Michael's store today with my mom and sister.  We were in search of some crafts for our church's Vacation Bible School, but my attention drifted as I spied a sign reading, "Welcome, Teachers!".  Immediately, I headed in that direction and began looking at border, bulletin board displays, and stickers.  I found an entire section devoted to Dr. Seuss's books and characters, so I spent several minutes perusing through those items.  After spending quite some time looking through the various school-related items, I realized I was probably needed by the craft search committee I had deserted near the entrance.  Though I left the store without buying any supplies, I made a mental note to come back later when I was by myself so I could spend an adequate amount of time selecting needed items.  I'm already excited about the return trip!

So if you happen to be in a Wal-Mart tonight and notice a person staring in awe at the aisles of school supplies, please don't judge them...they are probably just teachers who have caught a little glimpse into their own personal heaven.