My heart races as I realize that the roses are blooming outside and the sky is finally blue. The rain is gone. I long to be. Be outside. I secretly wish I could play hookie tomorrow, and a little grin pushes up the sides of my mouth before I can control myself. I long to be done telling students to close their mouths and be silent. Pay attention. Finally I feel like I'm not behind in grading or lesson planning or that there surely must be something I'm behind in, and I must reign in my excitement and keep it simply at a sparkle in my eye or I may scare off the natives with my loud laughter. I might jump out up off the floor and start spinning. I want to paint my nails bright pink in celebration. Why have I not been swimming yet? When was the last time I saw the stars? Reckless joy fills me. Content and more. Excited. Eager. Ecstatic. Proud. School is nearly out. Done. My first year of teaching.