Just because...

I'm convinced that receiving a "just because... gift" is one of my favorite kinds of gifts! Birthday and Christmas gifts are awesome, don't get me wrong, but they are expected to an extent! A "just because... gift" takes me by surprise and is completely unexpected and wonderful! Whether it's a piece of candy, a nice sweater, or a bag full of apples, it just plain makes my heart happy!

Today, Nicole (above), one of my 5th grade students proudly offerred me this "just because" ring that she had handmade for me with her own beads! And just like clockwork, my heart melted!

I love being a teacher!