Monday, June 23, 2008

Packing Up

It is bittersweet to leave what's been our home for three years. We're in the midst of saying goodbyes, packing, cleaning, and eating at our favorites places one last time. On Friday I had to say goodbye to my students and coworkers, who I may never see again. It was such a touching time to have sharing with them what they've meant to me. I gave my kids an ice cream party and handed them awards. When I finished, they came up to me and gave me letters they'd written to me. I read them aloud and grew teary. At the end, some of them gave me hugs. One of my students that I've had for two years who is on the autism spectrum, walked up to me and said, "Mrs. Bintz...I'll miss you." He voluntarily wrapped his arms around my neck and I boo-hooed. I can't explain how precious it is to have a student who does not usually show any affection to do that. I have loved these kids and pray that I can have a job similar to this. So, it was hard to say goodbye. I'm so thankful God gave me this opportunity to work with these people and kids.
Now, Jason is helping another friend move out and we're nearly done packing things up in here--as pictured below:

We're very excited to begin our new chapter in life. Please pray for a safe trip as we drive 1300 miles! For those of you in the South...we are truly looking forward to seeing you again and more often.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Spring time in Boston

During Memorial Day weekend, we went to Boston's EarthFest with friends. We just relaxed by the Charles River and listened to bands play at the Hatch Shell. We girls got up and collected lots of yummy free food from the Earth Fest vendors like salad, trail mix, granola bars, drinks, etc. (Don't worry Southern friends--we still love fried, fatty food too!) Spring is a time Boston loves to celebrate the first glimpses of warmish weather. Maybe the warm air will be here to stay soon--but we'll be missing that New England summer this year as we head South in just ten days!
Me and my sweet husband

The girls with the Free Food bags

Me, Jason, Megan, and Adam and Jessica

The crowd:

Field Trip to Plimoth Plantation

I had the privilege of getting to go with the third graders to visit Plimoth Plantation. (http://www.plimoth.org/) The third grade teachers made sure that I didn't leave Massachusetts without seeing this site. It was a wonderful experience--I think I enjoyed it as much as my students, if not more. We spent time walking around a mock 1627 village of Plimouth and talking with the Pilgrims, and walking in their homes as we watched them making their food, clothing, and homes. Then, we got to see a mock Wampanoag village. Here are some pictures of the sites.
The 1627 Village

One of the Pilgrims shared with us about life on the plantation and his journey getting there.

A Wampanoag wetu

A Wampanoag showing us how they built their wetus.