If you have wondered why I haven’t posted, I can tell you it’s because life got in the way.

R’s father is sick, and so he and little R raced down to Melbourne to be with family. I am here holding down the fort alone.  My job picked this very time to become a political nightmare, and I have spent most of my last teaching week feeling sick to my tummy and anxious over events I can’t control, can’t change, yet have no choice but to be a part of.  Thank goodness it’s over, and thank goodness I have had a year of wonderful children and wonderful (for the most part) parents.

Who showed their appreciation muchly. I am in possession of MYER vouchers, massage vouchers, umptydoo boxes of Godiva chocolates (I must have mentioned something once!) 3 mangoes (yep, the kids know me well, I am a sucker for a mango). I also received a glamour shoot voucher with complete make up, hair and shoot and one free portrait of my choice. AND from another person, a voucher for family portrait. Many Christmas decorations, much smelly stuff (which I have enough of over the years to keep me stink free until I am 97) Maxwell and Williams china, some CDs and other cool stuff.

I am always in awe of what people gift to us early years teachers. Some people spend a fortune. And it is never expected, but so appreciated.

I cried. (of course). And next year I start again.

Speaking of Santa, over on Aussie Bloggers, Kin hosted a Secret Santa, with the theme ‘Stationery’.  I was the lucky recipient of one of these little groovers.

Don’t know who from though, they have not outted themselves yet!

To see what I gave, you can go here.

I was a bit risque with my recipient, he is a male and buying men’s stationery is bloody hard! Fortunately, he has a sense of humour and all was good.

Now, this little Santa’s helper is going to have a swim, a long shower and open a glass of red. Think whimsically of my ‘babies’ as they move up a grade, eye off my chocolates, and get ready for 6 weeks off.

I really earnt them this year.

I hate committees.