3:39 p.m. EST We’re about to board. Here’s the crew minus Leslie and Michelle. #wheels up.

2:45 p.m. EST  Now in ATL, my city, my city.

I was feeling a kind of way because only my dad had called me to check in. And was wanting to see my family even if only for a few minutes.

Let me tell you ’bout my people.

My mom and sister surprised me, sent me a text saying they were in the airport but didn’t want me to worry about coming if the window was too tight between my flights.

Um, ya’ll. I ran out of my gate so fast.

Special shout out to fellow DC teacher Travis Bouldin for taking all my stuff while I sprinted out of the gate.

Though my family and I don’t see each other as often as we’d like, I love them and miss them and had to stop short of crying like a big baby because they know me so well. I travel a lot and love it, but really wanted to see them before I left. Yet, I didn’t want to disrupt their day. I know they work and didn’t want to say, yes, I’ll meet you at the airport, then be unable to do it.

So, along with school supplies, a grip of books to give, my clothes, resoluteness and unbending curiosity, I take the love of my family with me. Here’s a poem I wrote for the moment.

family does not say love

1:37 a.m. EST Today, I get to sleep a bit later and my body needs it. After Wednesday’s kickball game against the middle school staff, I am still a bit sore — OK, a lotta bit sore. I’ll update this post throughout the day with where we are and what we’re doing. Right now? Finished packing and in bed. #beautyrest