Return to school.

Although it remains to seen what the lasting effects are, I feel like I may have turned a corner today in my mood. I decided to take a trip into work and see everyone. I really miss everyone and I also knew that everyone seeing me would serve them as well. Sue and I decided to stop by one of my favorite restaurants (Smokey Bones) first because everyone knows that steroid boy has to eat like every 2 hours! We shared and appetizer and sandwich (big mistake). We did get our own desserts though!

We went over to school and went into the main office, where we were surrounded immediately by teachers and secretaries. It was so great to see everyone and hear again how many people are supporting us through this. This school community is like no other. We went to the principal's office and he brought us in. Greg Murtha is a wonderful man and principal. I have always admired him especially for his abilities as a public speaker and motivator. He seemed so happy to see me and was also excited to get me down to see the kids...he really wanted to be a part of that which I thought was so cool. I spoke to him about my plans for a gradual...very gradual return to work. Although he supports whatever decision I make, his concern is that I try to do too much and I get sick and have a setback. I have those same fears and I will continue to monitor my strength and conditioning this week to help me make the best decision possible about working 1 period a day starting on Monday.

I felt a little awkward at first seeing the kids. Although they seemed happy to see me, there was an uncomfortableness about it. This is normal. I do look a little different with my head shaved, a little heavier from the steroids, and the left side of my face still partially not functioning. As the time passed, and the student's day ended, they and I loosened up and I loved just being among them...watching them, listening to them, etc. It was interesting to see a few of them who had no idea what they should say to me, but still came over and expressed their love and support. As the time passed, I started to feel a little depleated in the energy department. I thought I was getting tired, but it was really just the emotions of it all that I think did it. We said our hellos and goodbye's to the kids and fellow staff members and Sue got me out of there as soon as she could. I'm glad she came because she knows usually before I do, when I need to move on.

On the way out of the parking lot, somehow we got on the topic of wanting a sweet ice tea from McDonalds. I convinced her to stop for me and since she was already going in, maybe she should get me a couple of hamburgers, french fries and hot fudge sunday! MMMMM.....hit the spot!

I enjoyed the rest of the afternoon and evening and I felt like my mood had been better since going over to work. I interacted a bit more with the kids and enjoyed watching them play. Here's to more days like this one!