Making Waffles in the Dark

I teach a Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature class at our homeschooling co-op. These kids are some of the most creative and funny teenagers on the planet. So when they requested a waffle party for our last day of classes, I smiled at the quirky request.

Until 4am this morning, when I woke to begin making several dozen from my mother's best recipe. I frowned when I realized we were out of eggs. Through bleary eyes, I made the drive to the mini-mart, groaning all the way.

But there is something miraculous about making that batter. As I measured, sift, separated, and folded, the smile returned. This was a silly little labor of love for my students.

My students. There is something almost unfair about teaching the kids at our co-op. Kids that are quirky individuals, passionate about books and music, yet consider adults friends. I love having a class that not only looks you in the eye, but steps up to the challenges of the course and want to exceed it, as a group.

This morning, however, I don't want to focus on the coursework. I am just thinking about these amazing students. From all my classes, over the years. Today is the final day of this year, and the final day for a dozen amazing seniors that we graduate this year. I've literally watched these kids grow up, and have shared so many laughs and triumphs along the way.

For them, pre-dawn baking is my pleasure.