HAPPY BIRTHDAY MRS. MULLEN

As room Mom for Brennen's class, it is my job to coordinate the class parties, help plan the school carnival, help out in the class when the teacher needs it, etc. The one thing I enjoy most about being room Mom is that I get to spend a lot of time in the class room observing and watching Brennen, the friends he chooses, his respect and attention for his teacher as well as for those classmates around him. Today was one of those days when I was able to observe him and his peers. It just so happens that today was his teachers birthday. He has a phenomenal teacher this year. We couldn't be more pleased with the progress and success he has had with her. He has a teacher that has truly invested in him as well as the other 21 students in her class. In my opinion, Mrs. Mullen ROCKS! :)

As room Mom, I was responsible for collecting a secret donation from all of the parents with kids in Brennen's class for Mrs. Mullen's special day. We have great parents that donate often and are very active in the classroom. His school in general is lucky. Parent participation is very hard to come by. However, with his elementary school, they have an over abundance of parents willing to help and give which I think is incredible! It was no different for Mrs. Mullen's birthday gifts. Parents donated money and I did the shopping. She filled out a sheet at the beginning of the year for me that stated all of her favorite restaurants, favorite stores, favorite colors, hobbies, etc. Therefore, it makes my life much easier to know those things when it comes time for Christmas or birthday gifts for her. We were also able to rent out the school sign again on behalf of her students in the class. (photo at top)
One of the other room parents, Jerlyn, was sweet enough to grab the kids some cupcakes and Mrs. Mullen a key lime pie (one of her fav's) for me so that they could all celebrate together. Thanks Jerlyn. You were a huge help today. I soooooo appreciate you.

With the money that was donated by the parents within the class, we were able to get her a $50 gift card to Bonefish Grill (one of her favorite restaurants), a $35 gift card to Barnes and Noble book store, a beautiful vase of fresh spring flowers and a happy birthday balloon, as well as an AGD bracelet from my inventory that read "I will make a difference." I told her that on those days in class when she feels tested and tried, she can look down at the bracelet on her wrist and have it as a constant reminder that she is making a substantial difference in these kids lives.
ABOVE: Here are the kids enjoying their cupcakes during her birthday celebration

ABOVE & BELOW: Her flowers, gift cards, and bracelet
So....HAPPY BIRTHDAY MRS. MULLEN! We just love and adore you. Thanks for all that you do for our children and for us as their parents. You are very appreciated.

Have a beautiful birthday and make it the best one yet.