Time to cut the wick

To be honest, I didn't want to get out of my warm bed early this morning and put on four layers of antique garb, trudge up a muddy path, hold my breath past the pigpen, and cut the wick, stir the wax, and play at being a chandler for 96 fourth graders.

Today was my first day back to work after winter hibernation, and I always grumble while searching for my buckle shoes in the dark. But once I get there...

...I remember why I love this job and the children with their questions. Like today - "Are you comfortable wearing that junk, lady?"

I love the tools of my trade - today, a candlemaker

and the smell of wood smoke

and still rooms

and the company of other history geeks

Every year I say "This year - I'm quitting. I'm too old for this." And when the day is over, I say, "Well, maybe next year".

Thanks everybody for your kind words and prayers. I'm feeling much better.