From Trepidation to Relaxation in 5 Days!

I know, I know. I haven't been on here for a while.
Ooops! Sorry! Life happens!

So, last Thursday I had a training class for my new job. I had to learn the correct way to restrain a child when he tries to attack me. I was told by the social worker, in a chipper voice, "Oh, after the first quarter, they are over it and get on with school."

Sure, they are "only" 5th and 6th grade, but guys, I am only 4'11"! They will be my size of bigger!

But Miss Bethie, didn't you say you have a para in your room?

Yup. It is great that she takes it upon herself to do all the grading, but rumor on the street, she doesn't like to move from her desk and she is elderly.

The social worker then tells me that I have parent issues. They suspect one has Munchausen syndrome by proxy, and since I am in the trailer, she'll just walk in when ever the mood hits her. She also hates all the other parents in my room, and has a lawyer and an advocate for every meeting--and there are a lot of meetings.

I am hating my life. I sit there smiling stupidly and say in a perky tone, "Really? Well, I have been in the field a long time and I just go with the flow most of the time."

Monday I went to my school and finally met my principal, assistant principal and, the most important person in the building, the secretary. I met other staff members, as well, and everyone was lovely. I really liked my principal who was very reassuring, even though he felt the need to tell everyone, "She taught in St. Louis City District! She's ready for us!"
He was adamant, though, that I am a staff member, even though I am working through a co-op, and that he understands that normally my kids get in trouble because the "regular" kids use mine as scapegoats and like the antagonize them. I would have hugged him--but both principals are my age and nice looking. I don't want to get rumors started this soon into my year!

I am feeling better. Much better. And when I see my trailer, that is actually quite cute, roomy yet cozy, and well stocked with teaching material, I am a happy girl. The secretary told me she can procure just about anything I need, just ask, and I was given keys to my trailer and the building. Seriously. They gave me a key to the entire building!

Today I got a massage. A free massage, except for the tip, of course. I had a certificate. After having some of my fears laid to rest upon meeting my principals, I was able to love my massage and finally, for the first time this summer, RELAX.