Good-byes

Life is full of good-byes. This past week at the dayhome, Jaret said good-bye to a little girl named Maya. She has been at the dayhome with him for a number of months. When she first started coming, he wasn't quite sure about her. He wondered who this little girl was and why she was here, especially when he was perfectly content with the other friends he had made. Then he began to warm up to her and really enjoyed spending his days with her. So much so, that they would both give each other a big hug whenever one of them went home for the day. It was so cute to see. On Wednesday, Jaret gave Maya a little note that he had coloured and a book as a going away gift. It was the most adorable thing, seeing him go and give her this little gift and seeing how excited she was in receiving it. It truly melted my heart. At the end of the day, they gave each other some big hugs and Jaret gave Maya a kiss on the cheek. So, it was good-bye - for now. Until some playdates are planned for the two of them.

It was also good-bye for me this week as another school year ended. The students last day of school was on Friday. We spent time on Friday in encouragement circles. It was so touching to hear the students compliment each other. The compliments were sincere and really were a true refelction of each student's character. Friday night was our awards night where teachers present awards to every student in their class for their Christ-like character. Each award that was given out seemed so appropriate for who the students are, the person they are, and the qualities they are developing. It was a wonderful way to end the year. I truly felt blessed. And as always, it was hard to say good-bye, to the students and the parents.

Over the last few days, we have been so thankful to have Terry's mom visit. She and Jaret both enjoyed spending some one-on-one time together while Terry and I were at work. Nettie joined Jaret and I at his last swimming lesson this week. She had fun getting in the water with him and seeing how much he enjoys the water. He really loved the slide and couldn't get enough of Gradnma helping him up the stairs so he could go down over and over. It would have been even better if I would have done a better job at catching him. The second time he went down, he went right under the water. However, this didn't seem to phase him one bit and he wanted Grandma to help him go up the slide again! Today we dropped Mom off at the airport to return home, so it was another good-bye. But, we are looking forward to seeing her again in July when we spend some time in Saskatchewan.

We have said good-bye to spring and summer is here. The days are longer - I love how late it stays light. It truly does feel like summer with warmer weather, longer days, and school wrapping up. Hope that you are all enjoying the longer days and are anticipating the excitment that summer will bring your way.

~Jenn