Today was a tough day. Nothing seemed to go right. If you know the classic book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, you know what I mean.
Version 1.0.0
It started with drop-offs. Children who never cry cried. For a long time. Parents who rarely stay stayed, for a long time.
We played outside and made mud pies, which was wonderful, until we had to clean up the mud.
We had a special guest, and children had to be reminded many times to pay attention. She is a seasoned teacher and the children love her.
Before rest time, Naomi does wonderful mindfulness and affirmations with children. They look forward to it. Well, today was not the day, and she had to stop.
Next is chapter reading. Today was the second time all year that I had to close the book and say, “I guess there won’t be any chapter reading today.”
At the end of the day, this is what I found:
When everything seems wrong, there’s always something wonderful. Always.
Jennie
A Teacher's Reflections 
Love how you found the bright spot, Jennie! Sorry about the horrible, terrible, no good, very bad day! They happen!
Yes, they happen, and that bright spot made the day!
A silver lining moment. Thanks for sharing, Jennie
It was, John. Many thanks.
😊
Priceless!
That’s a lovely end to a stinker of a day Jennie. Big hugs.
Yes, indeed. Thanks, Teagan.
Oh, that is so sweet. It makes up for all those LIMAS!
It does! Thanks, Luanne.
One of the mysteries of teaching is how these off days come from out of the blue for no rhyme or reason. Then, just as quickly, the next day is often tremendous. Children have a great sense for when we need a little pick me up. I’m glad Ruby gave that gift to you.
They really do, Pete. It’s amazing how quickly a bad day becomes a good day. Children are so intuitive. They pick up on everything.
Thank heavens for Ruby! Better day today fingers crossed 🤞
Thanks, FR. I’m sure it will be.
Two thoughts
Every teacher will meet a Ruby -Maybe not every day. .
And wonderful to read that mud pies are still on the curriculum.
Yes, and yes. Thank you.
That really saved the day!
Best wishes, Pete.
Yes! Best to you, Pete.
What a thoughtful gesture from Ruby! You and her parents have taught her well. I hope today is a better day for everyone.
She was so thoughtful! And yes, she has been taught well. Today was terrific, which is how it happens.
I’m glad today was a good day in the Aqua Room!
Some days, you need Ruby (or someone like her) to put things right again.
Yes! 😍
Loved the story………it’s a love story with oneself…….
Thank you.
Hi Jennie, I imagine the children were out of routine due to the long weekend and Memorial Day. There are always silver linings … always!
You might be right, Robbie. And yes, there are always silver linings.
🤍🩶
A bright star in a dark day! Bless Ruby.
Well said, Darlene, on both counts. Thank you!
As a former teacher, I remember that not all days are perfect, and some days can be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day like Alexander’s day. But, like what happened to your day, Jennie, there is always a bright spot. You just have to find it!
You said it well, Cathy. I know you like this book! There’s always a bright spot on the bad days. Finding it is the key.
There’s always a day that just feels so bad that going to Australia seems like the best thing to do. I love that book and the note you found at the end of the day. Perfect!
I love your comment, Deborah. So true! I knew you loved the book. And yes, the note was perfect.
Hi Jennie, Yes, wonderful teachers find these moments!
🥰
I know about those days and if children are feeling them, that’s a huge deal. There is a lot going on out in the universe energy wise and everyone I’ve spoken too feels it but can’t explain it. You were all wise enough to not blame the children and follow the flow. I think I will hunt down a copy of that book to put in my window when I’m having one of those days. It will explain so much. I love the note. Just too sweet for the end of a bad day.
You are the wise one, Marlene. No one is to blame, not really. I think the universe sometimes throws things at us. The book is perfect for when you’re having one of those days. And the note was really wonderful!
It seems even the pre-schoolers are feeling that end of the school year feeling. My middle schoolers most definitely are, as am I!
Children are the wise ones, and they sense when there’s change. I think the day was par for the course. Last week was a pip, and I’m sure it’s the same for you.
Fabulous story, both yours and the No Good One, LOL. I’m glad you have a Ruby. This is a story you will always remember. You remind me of my teaching days. I had a couple of those days in my career, and the kids are so understanding – even the ones who are usually naughty.
Beautifully said, Marsha. Many thanks, and I’ll always remember this story. Children really are very understanding.
Yes, they are! 🙂