Sparkles on my face.

I was looking at myself in the mirror after work today and noticed glitter sparkling above my eyebrow. I love the sparkles on my face. I love working with kids everyday. I love being greeted cheerfully "Hi Miss Kate!" when I walk into the room. A few years ago I was working in the nursery at Crossroads and there was a little girl that was crying inconsolably. We tried everything, to no avail. A mother came in to drop off her little boy, he scampered away apparently either over or hadn't reached yet the seperation anxiety stage yet. She bent down to the crying girl and held out her arms saying simply, "do you just need a hug?" To be honest, after listening to her scream, I was not feeling the whole hug thing - but that was exactly what that girl needed, some comfort and love. Sure enough, a few minutes later she was off playing with friends. I have remembered that lesson taught by a wise mom and at my school, when I walk into the room, they look up from what they are doing, waiting expectantly me to come over and give them each a hug, to smile and make a funny face, to rustle their hair or kiss them on the top of the head. I love how their favorite place is sitting in my lap and I literally have to peel them off of me. I love when they lay their head down on my shoulder and just rest there, needing a break from the constant play and noise of the room. I love their questions and when they run up to me, jumping into my arms and completely trusting me that I'll catch them. I love the adoration in their eyes - it goes both ways. I adore little Nico and his pudgy little body. I adore Ryan and his sweet face and constant need to share his thoughts even though I can't understand half of what he is saying. I love Cole's pride on his face as I clapped for him when he put the last piece in the puzzle. I love Tommy how he leans into me when I sit next to him. I love Jacob's precious smile and hilarious sense of humor that never ceases to crack me up. I miss them when I'm gone and can't wait to see them tomorrow. I love having sparkles on my face.