The most wonderful time of the year...

I can't help but hum this tune when the school year comes to a close and I assess the loot that was received by some of my students. Now, to give you a little background, I work for Annandale High School, one of the most diverse schools in the county. The majority of my students are Korean, Vietnamese or Middle Eastern, all of which are extremely generous cultures.

Now, I am conscious of the fact that this issue poses a bit of a paradox, as it is not appropriate to accept gifts in my profession, and yet it is considered offensive to these cultures to decline a gift. So what does one do? So, I accept them all. In fact, receiving gifts and gestures of gratitude from the students I work with is truly a favorite of mine...not only does it feel good to be appreciated, but the gifts come in all shapes and sizes and at times provides miles and miles of comic relief! At anyrate, throughout the year, the gifts that I receive range from ethnic cakes and treats to $50 Starbucks gift cards; I know! What am I going to do with that kind of money at Starbucks?! But I manage...multiple trips to get hot chocolate or buy the latest Starbuck's CD! In years past, I have received some very interesting gifts. A small sampling: flexible rubber magnets of stick figure Korean children...hmmm, OR super sparkly hair clips...these remind me of the princess barretts that I used to long for when a little girl. But by far, one of my favorites was a beautiful silver Christmas ornament that I received 4 years ago from an ESL student; the ornament said "Our First Christmas, 2005". Hilarious! Much to its dismay, the ornament later became a white elephant gift and was given a new home.

This year was a banner year for end-of-year student loot (gifts)! ....a size 10 flapper outfit (dress) from one student, and the most sparkly, fringy purse I've ever seen, from another student! Mauri and I had way too much fun capturing these most prized gifts on camera.Not really my style, but perhaps I could wear it to a funeral?

Definitely room in there for one more!

I am secretly in love with the purse....seriously! You just may see me prancing around town with it soon!