memories, endings & new beginnings

Almost 10 years ago I was lucky enough to spend a semester at the BYU Jerusalem Center. It was only 3 and a half months but they were some of my favorite months still today. Ever since I have loved everything Middle Eastern, including camels. A few years ago a cute little book store opened near our cabin. What was for sale? This guy below...

It is real leather, totally overpriced, but had the cutest little ears and eyes that I just couldn't resist. I bought it. I had no idea what I was going to do with it but I bought it and loved it! It sat in my bedroom for a few years then when I started teaching he joined me in my classroom for the last 5 years. At the end of each year we have a class auction where I bring all sorts of things for the kids to bid on using up their class money. This year I debated on selling the camel. What in the world would I do with it at our house? A camel themed nursery? I love camels but probably not that much. I text Ben in the middle of the auction and said just tell me what to do, keep it or sell it. He gave me the answer I was hoping. He told me to sell it. As soon as the camel was up for bid he was sold. The boy in my class who got it was so happy. I had a hard time giving him up but knew it was for the best. So the camel is now an almost 5th graders. I'm sure he'll have a good home for at least a year or so until the boy forgets 4th grade and forgets how much I loved the camel. So the camel is gone. It was just the beginning of a lot of changes in my life. Today, my last day of teaching, marks the end of a big chapter in my life. As much as I love teaching my 4th graders I can't even explain how excited I am to begin teaching our little baby girl. I know she will make the next chapter in my life wonderful. I love Ben so much and can't wait to have our own little family. I know I will always remember my good old days but I also know they don't compare to my time with Ben so far and won't compare to our future together.