I wake up every morning at 6:30 a.m.

Whether I had a full night's sleep or a horrible time closing my eyes and dreaming, it doesn't matter. I'm up.

Sometimes I go into work at 8 am; other times I go in at 12 p.m.

But before I clock into my summer job as a summer camp counselor, I'm already ready for what the day will bring me.

Working with children was not my 'Top Ten Things to Do Over Summer Break' when I was younger, but as I grew older, I found I had a knack for it. And every summer, I was working with children.

This summer is no different. I work with kindergarteners, all the way up to sixth graders, with many experiences to look back on with glee. Like the time I was walking down the hallway and saw one of my younger "sunshines" (I call everyone sunshine, actually). I called out to him and asked, "Are you being good today?" and without missing a beat, he replied, "So far." (As if there was more mischief to be had later on.) Or the time I was given a gift from the twins (who had grown on me significantly) followed with two sweet hugs.

But, I don't set out to get gifts or look for a laugh every day I work. I go into my job, which I love dearly, and set out to love on the children in any way I can. Sometimes their version of love isn't hugs or public affection. Sometimes, it's just listening to their stories or helping them with a project. Sometimes, it means caring when you see the tears well up in their eyes or when you see the bug bite they've been itching all day -- so you offer some Cortisone and a Band-Aid. Or, in the case of this summer, dressing up in a black dress and shoes in 100 degree weather and helping them have a funeral for their friend Amber, the unlucky popsicle stick that met her demise on the art room floor. (And by funeral, I mean with a casket, a pit dug for her to be lowered in, and a lovely ceremony complete with flowers and a snack for the reception. My kiddos can be so extra.)

I have younger kids who ambush me with hugs (older kids too) and some who just want attention. To be completely honest, I spoil whoever comes into my job. Whether it be with extra lollipops or just a hug and a "Good [insert any time of day here], sunshine! How are you?" I might be the reason for a few headaches in the evening. When I leave work, I'm exhausted, but I love my job and I always go home knowing that it was a good day.

If you can leave your job every single day, even if you got yelled at and smacked and pushed around, yet you still love the people you work with and work for, you might love your job too.