Although our brief, fleeting little Fall Break will be missed, I think we (the students and I) actually missed each other a fair amount. Today was fabulous. Not as in one of those overpoweringly inspirational days, but as in one of those in-sync, perfectly fluid, calm, and well-ordered days. Such days are very much appreciated in year 3.

I think the kiddos appreciate them too. I know they love structure, and I loved them for acting pleasantly within the one I designed for today. Even A Certain Student was respectful, engaged - he did his work quietly, praise be! - and volunteered (mostly) appropriate questions and comments.

Despite my good humor at the end of the day (6:30pm; 12 hours after its start), I still could not fathom joining my friends at a local micro-brew for a drink this evening. It’s so strange to imagine the days when that would have actually been a conceivable notion: to go out for a drink on a week night. No; a noisy bar is hardly competition for a shower, a hoodie, and a book - delicious luxuries anymore.

Now the challenge: stay on top of my game, don’t stress, and sleep peacefully.