Since the moment I met my mother-in-law, we talked about books. We would speak of various characters as if we had actually met them and knew them like we knew family. I loved that about her. She was always exposing me to ideas and events that were new to me. She used books as breadcrumbs to show me the way and expand my thinking.
Category: growth mindset
Sitting With Darkness
Now, she’s gone, and I’m trying to find my way in the wake of this darkness. How do I walk on towards old age? How do I live fully with joy and optimism while holding pain and anxiety at bay?Â
One Little Word – Zest, 2025
I keep thinking about the perfect word as my touchstone for 2025. In the past, I’ve chosen: remember, purpose, and settle. Those are important words and they kept me set on a definite path the last three years. This year, I searched for a word that would reflect who I am now at the beginning of 2025, at the precipice of my 69th year.Â
Christmas Tree Memories
The one symbol of Christmas that I have always loved is the Christmas tree. I loved the anticipation of buying it and bringing it home, decorating it, and watching it light up the winter darkness. To tell the truth, I didn't really even care much for the presents. The tree was present enough for me.
A Jury of Our Peers: Part 2
Exercising my civic duty is not as exciting as I thought it would be. Mostly, it is waiting and trying to keep myself entertained. I purposefully did not bring my laptop, and I’m trying not to engage my phone. I want this day to be more reflective and in the moment. I spend too many days rushing around from one task to the next. Today, I have an opportunity to stop and reflect.
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Exercising my civic duty is not as exciting as I thought it would be. Mostly, it is waiting and trying to keep myself entertained. I purposefully did not bring my laptop, and I’m trying not to engage my phone. I want this day to be more reflective and in the moment.Â
A Lark and a Prayer:Â Music in the Classroom
Last week, I was reminded of the importance of music. This reminder came in the form of a six-year-old girl named Lark.
Grateful Harvest: Baking in Kindergarten
This week, I had the treat of baking with kindergarteners. We transformed their four small Halloween pumpkins into a sumptuous dessert: Bread Pudding in a Pumpkin Shell! To my surprise, there were requests for seconds, thirds, and even fourths!
Showing Up
I have shown up for kids for forty-six years. It is my greatest achievement – this showing up – this putting intentional time into something as important as children. I love watching children grow and develop. I like being the one who cheers them on through the struggles.Â
Finding Tranquility in a Cup of Tea
When life gets more hectic than I wish, I turn for moments of solace. Those moments often include a steaming cup of tea. As soon as I put the kettle on, I start to relax.
Word Dancer: Literature, the Arts, & Education 