I wonder if you're ever like me and stop and look at your children and think, "When did they get so tall?" or "When did you suddenly learn how to do that?"

I've done it with my own kids regularly, but I've also spent a lot of time lately looking at our Bobs Farm children thinking, "How can you have grown and changed so much, seemingly overnight?"

Of course, it isn't overnight, though. It's the result of days, weeks and months' worth of minuscule yet essential moments that accumulate to create a massive impact that all of a sudden seems noticeable. 

One of the greatest joys in my job is watching a child do something or hear them say something that I reflect on and think, "Wow! You couldn't do that when I first met you, but now you can! How impressive and exciting is that?"

One of the aims of these newsletters is to help families capture moments in time so they can reflect and appreciate these important moments in their child's life. They provide an opportunity to share in these moments in some small way, even though we can't always be with our children. Hopefully, these newsletters help provide talking points for you to have deeper conversations with your children about the things they are learning at school, but also the experiences and relationships they are building.  We trust you enjoy seeing and reading about their day as much as we enjoy guiding and supporting all of these children in their education.

Last week, we showed special recognition to our administrative and support staff through the annual SASS Appreciation Week. We know all schools genuinely appreciate all of the support staff that work in their schools; however, at Bobs Farm PS, it seems just that little bit more special, as these staff members literally are life-changing for us all! 

Caroline in the office not only carries out the role that multiple staff are employed for in larger schools, but she always does so with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. 

Mrs Allen has joined our Bobs Farm family this year in dual roles. As a qualified and experienced teacher, she has been employed at times to replace Mrs Burns when she is away, although Mrs Allen has also been a fabulous replacement as an SLSO for Miss Ella while she's been on her big trip. 

Of course, we also have the beautiful Miss Ella, who is just now returning to us after trading her NSW winter for a stunning European summer. We are so grateful to have her back, though, as she has been greatly missed by us all. 

Then there's Miss Kris! What would we all do without her? As clever little Mirra told us last week, Miss Kris is very good at 'communicating with Mrs Hodgson'. She's also, in the words of the children, "very kind" and "helps us with our work". She "helps us put our socks and shoes on" and "helps us get our medication".  Miss Kris is certainly a one in a million!

Lou, our fabulous cleaner, has been on personal leave this term, but we excitedly welcomed her back last week.  We've missed her greatly, as we appreciate all the time and care she puts into ensuring we all have a clean and hygienic place to learn and work, not to mention we also enjoy her company. 

Rounding out our incredible SASS team is the indefatigable Hodgy. Aside from his full-time job serving our country in the defence force, he manages to find time to also keep our school grounds looking immaculate and overall just adding to the positive vibes we have at Bobs Farm PS. 

We also want to make honourable mention of our equally indefatigable P&C members who again served delicious meals to students and staff for our Book Week celebrations, canteen meal deals and cake stall. We appreciate their fundraising efforts but, more importantly, their willingness and generosity in ensuring that children get to experience some of the joys often only available at larger schools, such as the opportunity to buy meals from the canteen and purchase Fathers' Day gifts. 

As you read through this newsletter, you'll find all sorts of updates on things like our recent Book Week celebrations (including lots of photos), Jump Rope for Heart fundraising progress and upcoming events. Please be sure to also follow our school Facebook and Instagram pages for regular updates and reminders. 

We hope all the fathers, grandfathers, carers and supporting figures in your lives had a happy and enjoyable Fathers' Day on the weekend. Whether your gifts were bought or lovingly crafted, I hope they brought smiles and happy memories. 

I also hope you're enjoying this warmer, brighter, more colourful spring weather recently, as I have been. If you're a bushwalker and enjoy spring wildflowers, I can highly recommend getting out and exploring the Tomaree Coastal Walk, which is currently bursting into bloom. 

Enjoy reading this edition of the newsletter and seeing some of the many fun activities we've been enjoying lately. 

Mrs B

PS...GOOD LUCK to Mrs Hodgson and her Nelson Bay soccer team in their big grand final tonight! We'll all be cheering you on from near and far. 

PPS...Don't forget to jump on Flexischools to order lunches by this Friday afternoon, ready for the following Tuesday's meals. 

PPPS...Also, please remember to keep toys, trading cards and collectibles at home. We will host a games and trading afternoon on the last day of term.