It's Real.....

Today I filled this out. It's the first time it's felt REAL. 

At one of the schools where I used to teach, the preference sheet had a blank where you could check "I plan to retire at the end of the ________ school year." I always wanted to check that box.

But then what would my statement have said?

I don't know how binding these documents are. The school district doesn't HAVE to offer you a position just because you get one of these forms. And I think January is a little early to ask most people to declare their intentions for the next school year.

But this person?

Not so much.

I had tears in my eyes as I filled out this form. But believe me, they were tears of JOY. 

Not that I hate my job. I'm not miserable, homicidal (most days), suicidal, disgusted, burnt out, angry, or frustrated. At least no more than 99% of the rest of the teachers in the nation.

I'm just ready.

And now it's real.