Nearly Calm #SOL16

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This weekend I was a soggy, weepy mess.

There wasn't a reason in particular, but I guess you could say it's been pretty stressful since August.

Lindsey (oldest daughter) went back to U of Iowa for her junior year.  She has lots of committments (RA, UISG senator, student!)

I have a new principal.  She's an instructional leader with clear expectations.

Interventions started weeks of assessment, meetings and data collection, 

Allison (youngest daughter) started freshman year at ILStU and has collected new friends and has lots of opportunities for growth (read:  oversleeps!)

Jeff started building my Little Free Library in between weekly trips to the east coast.  He's been away more than home, so the LFL is only half built.

I started a new grad class and twice! my book order was canceled.  My assignments are late.

WHEW.

Then tonight I took a walk.  My phone hasn't pinged with any "Mom help!" messages. 

The sky was a beautiful pink.  Data meetings are finished, I can focus on teaching.

I worked on the door of my LFLibrary.  I breathed.  I had a piece of chocolate (and another).

I realized that I don't need to stress. 

I just need to stretch 
and do my best.
and eat more chocolate
and breathe.

Systematic approach, reluctantly

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When Lindsey returned after a summer of working at the U of Iowa orientation program, we tried to contain her stuff to one corner of the family room.  We knew she needed time and space to decompress from her job.  Being in charge of a group of incoming first years or transfer students, two or three times per week, wears you out.

I decided not to nag her (this is a skill I'm working on) about dealing with her stuff.  I did ask a few questions and encourage her to make some decisions about what she would bring to school, and what she could let go, as she enters her junior year.

Lindsey pointed out to me (very diplomatically) that when her amount of stuff was questioned or looked at with dismay (pointing at you, dad), she got upset.  She felt that we were holding her back from building an independent life outside of our house.

Huh.  I never thought of it that way.

Nine days of relaxing, creating door decorations for her floor, and visiting with friends passed by.  Some stuff got organized.  We realized that moving day (it's tomorrow!) was quickly arriving.

Last night we made a plan for today.  I would not work on homework or go to school.  She and I would pack her stuff and place it in the truck.  No errands, limited phone time, lots of music, no lectures.  We decided to pack item stored in the basement, then the items in the family room, and finish with the clothes in her bedroom.

I'm happy to report that the plan went extremely well.  I let Lindsey decide where to place her stuff in the truck and how to pack most of it.  I was merely the assistant, in charge of laundry, hanging clothes and dishes.  I offered a few suggestions, but that was it.

Parenting young adults is a whole new world.  They want to be seen as functioning grown ups.  We parents want to help them navigate life smoothly, avoiding some of the bigger pitfalls we remember from our past.  Hoping to help them realize what stuff is important.

It's an exciting time around here!  Lindsey's younger sister leaves for college in two weeks.  I wonder how packing her stuff and launching will turn out.

BElive in YOUrself

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Allison showed me a picture on Pinterest.  "I love this quote.  See how the BE in believe and the YOU in yourself is highlighted?  I'm going to make this for my wall."

My youngest daughter loves to surround herself with inspirational quotes and crafty projects.  She's a creative mind amid lots of practical, linear thinkers.  She needs constant reassurance that she is OK and doing the right things in life.

As much as I tell Allison and my oldest daughter, Lindsey, that they are perfect just the way they are and to celebrate their strengths, I've struggled with the my own self-esteem over the years.  My internal voice likes to remind me that I need to work harder to be organized, be leaner, be less of a talker and get things finished!

This summer I have worked on self care.  Reminding myself (like I tell my daughters and my students) that I am human.  I am a work in progress that doesn't need to be anyone but myself.  It has taken me 46 years on the planet (and a LOT of meditation) to realize that it is just fine to be who I am, quirks and all, and be passionate about what I do and what I love.

Wow.  Heavy stuff.  But not really.  I'm feeling lighter and less stressed and more grounded!
Why? How? One big help?

This summer I immersed myself back into the world of books. 

•  I downloaded a pile of YA books from the library and devoured them.
• I visited Little Free Libraries and added to the collections.
• I sat under a tree at school each week and handed books to families.
• I worked through two grad school classes for my ESL endorsement and made sure I spread book love through the class discussions (predictable!)
• I attended NErdCampMI in Parma, MI, with my new book-loving teacher-friend (Meghan Hernandez!), surrounded by thoughtful teacher leaders (Cathy Mere!), librarians, authors, and many, many book heroes.

This summer I took a deep breath.  I realized I don't need to BE anyone but ME.
Quirks (clicking pens), habits (eating chocolate), loves (books, music, family), and dislikes (broccoli!).

BElieve in YOUrself.

Little Free Library Dreams #SOL16

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I did it.

I ordered my charter sign for my Little Free Library.  

The one I plan to place in my yard.  

The one I will fill with books for grown ups and little ones and curious neighbors.

I staged a little sign for social media (I wasn't brave enough to leave it in the yard, even just for a while).  

Jeff (my fabulous hubby) promises to build me the library.  He has a workshop full of tools and a keen eye for design.  He claimed that once I got the charter sign, he would build the library around it.  Now he travels every week for work.  I have to be patient.  Being patient is not easy for me.

Meanwhile, I'm working on how I will promote the library (once it's installed) and welcome my neighbors (some I really don't know!) to be involved in taking and giving books.

Some ideas...

• ribbon cutting
• set up an info table next to my LFLibrary during our city's Labor Day festival (lots of people park on my street)
• write up a blurb for our city newsletter
• create a flyer for my neighbors' doors
• sit in my daughter's room and stare out the window at the library, wondering if I'm okay with complete strangers stopping in front of my house 
• talking about said strangers with the neighbors on each side of me (communication is key)

I really have to be patient, and thinking of lots of ideas gets me excited and nervous at the same time.  I'm glad to have the Little Free Library newsletters and website to help me out.

I also appreciate your suggestions!

Just getting started

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My coworker looked at me today.  "You're not smiling.  What's wrong?"
I wasn't crabby (tired, but not crabby), I was just deep in thought.

"You can do it, you can make it 11 more days!" she laughed.

"It's not that we have 11 days of school left, it's that I feel like I'm just getting started!" I replied.

This has been a school year of learning,
starts and stops,
rushing into groups,
finding my backbone,
stating my intentions
and remaining transparent.

I'm here to boost my students
and to help them develop as
readers,
writers,
thinkers
and cooperative, respectful citizens.

It's May and my students are just realizing their potential and finding success.
Their teachers are tired, drained and anxious about
packing up,
escalating silliness,
assessments and
data collection.

I'm just getting started in helping my students and fellow teachers
find their passion and their strengths
as they find ways to minimize their weaknesses.

Sunny Sunday #SOL16

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I read the newspaper each day, scanning for fun activities amid the dreary news and sobering headlines.  On Saturday, I spotted a glimmer of fun:

Lamb and Wool Festival at Kline Creek Farm

Don't even get me started about sheep and cows and chickens and....  no, I was not raised on a farm (just the suburbs!).  I have no interest in working on a farm (too hard!  too stinky!).  I just l.o.v.e. tours and new places and, most importantly, 

I {heart} being OUTSIDE!

Hooray for nature!!

My daughter, Allison, is a fellow adventurer (when the mood strikes her), and her boyfriend Eric will usually go along for the ride.  My husband really wasn't keen on going at first, but then I pleaded and gave him puppy eyes, so he was game.  When I said we could stop for lunch on the way, he obliged.  It was a beautiful day to take his car for a drive farther than his local office.

We had fun exploring the living history farm, watching sheep being sheared and talking with the horse handler.  We soaked up the sunshine and ended up in downtown Wheaton (yes, we visited one of the chocolate shops!) for a snack and some window shopping.

The visit to the farm was a nice diversion from all the chores and Sunday stress that I usually spend all day churning in my head.  Being outside with some of my favorite people made getting ready for the week that much easier.

This ewe is waiting her turn to be sheared.

This ewe is all finished with her haircut!

The Reading Nest #SOL16

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It's April.  We have less than 30 days of school (yes, we will finish in MAY!)

and my little "birds" are flap, flap, flapping their "reading wings."

I, the sweet, smiling enabler, take on a new persona every spring.

My little birds are not very happy with me.

I become the mama robin

who has sat on the eggs in my nest

keeping them warm and safe from predators.

My little birds are chirp, chirp, chirping

hungry for more words,

longer books 

("Can I have a chapter book, please?")

Their reading wings are the strongest they have been all year.

They really don't want to try to fly.

They are too scared, but

I begin to nudge them closer to the edge of the nest.

When they look at me with big, worried eyes, 

waiting for me to help them with a tricky word,

I pause, I count in my head, I prompt them,

"You try."

They can usually get the word, but I'll whisper help if they need it.

Some of my brood are stronger than others.  

They teeter on the edge of the nest,

encouraging their fellow "feathered" friends

to join them in a trial "flight" with a book.

These birds are ready for short flights on their own.

They refuse to wait for an introduction to the text - 

they jump right in and begin reading on their own,

usually leaving the safety of the table for a comfy spot on the floor

where they exclaim,

"I can read it by myself!"

Some birds need a bigger push towards the edge.  

These are the birds that I will welcome

back to the nest in August.

These are the birds that need more meals

of strategies, easier texts and positive reading experiences.

I will always be back at the nest

where the little ones can find me

amid a variety of juicy texts.

From McHenry County

Future Slices #SOL16 31/31

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Wow.  March is over!?!!?  

I've enjoyed reading slices from everyone.

Your comments mean the world to me, even if I'm not so great at replying.

I tried to visit lots of blogs over the month,

yet I know I missed a whole lot of your writing.

I hope you will continue to slice throughout the year on Tuesdays.

I try and write when the muse moves me (or Michelle nudges me)

But sometimes my slices sound like the same old things...

family, chocolate, books, chocolate, funny stories, teaching.

I'm think my future slices will be about ...

• Daughter #1 continuing to be successful in her studies and finding her new roles at college (orientation guide and resident assistant)  not too stressful
• Launching daughter #2 out of high school and into college where she will make good decisions (getting to class on time!) and continue to grow as a young adult
• Husband #1 (LOL) will stay his course of eating well, exercising and being an all around awesome guy
• Teaching and learning with my students 
• Funny stories about the above process
• Books, books, and more books (maybe more nonfiction!)
• The Little Free Library I hope to install in my yard this summer and maybe one at school, too!

Thanks for coning along for the Slice of Life Challenge ride!

Passion for positive changes #SOL16 30/31

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It's election day at the University of Iowa.  The students are deciding who will run their student government today.  My oldest daughter, Lindsey, has been a key part of getting her candidates elected.  When she started college, it was as a business major.  Then she figured out that her passion is more about people and policy.  She then changed to a double major in communications and political science.  She's drawn to others who want to create positive changes for people, the environment and life in general.  

This campaign has been a learning process.  Lindsey has figured out what's important to her, and she inspires the people around her to stand up and speak up for what they believe in.  She and the rest of her party have made solid decisions about their platform: support for students (especially mental health care), safety, diversity, inclusive initiatives, and more.

I know this campaign has been time consuming, stressful and lots of hard work.  I know my daughter has grown emotionally and figured out more of her strengths.  I've worked hard to keep myself from checking in with her constantly and making sure she's eating, sleeping and doing her homework (#teachermomproblem).

I couldn't be prouder of this kid.  I wish her BLOC party (Better Lives on Campus) much success in their endeavors to win the election and make positive changes to the university.

I am running for UISG senator because I see this opportunity as way to ensure all students' concerns are being heard and needs are being met. I hope through this position I will be able to work towards a more inclusive and supportive university.  I'm ultimately working to give back and better the Hawkeye community, a community that has already given so much to me.

Happy birthday, dear friends! #SOL16 29/31

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Today I celebrate Michelle and Karen, my dear friends and fellow book pushers!  

Today they both celebrate their birthday!!!!  How special for my kindred spirits!

Dear Michelle (Piggy to me, Gerald),

When I was hired at Frost, I got a call from our boss.  He wanted me to call and introduce myself to you because he knew you needed a partner-in-crime/reading.  I could tell we would be friends from the first time we talked.  Our strategies might be different (mine more circular, yours linear) but we have the same goals for our kiddos and students: to become independent thinkers who love to learn.  We also share goals for our fellow teachers:  walk the walk as readers and writers!

May you see this birthday as just a number.  You will continue to refine your beliefs and stay on the path to greatness.  You will always be my mentor, and of course, I will lend you an ear anytime you need to vent your frustrations (you are also such an awesome listener to my stories).  May we continue to share lots of laughs, books, daughter talk and trips that include books!  (Eric Carle museum is on the bucket list!  One day!)

Big hugs, 
Chris

Dear Karen (Ivy to me, Bean),

When we first met, I envied your binder.  It was a Title I meeting, and you had everything at your fingertips.  I quietly watched as you shared your opinions and data with a firm, clear voice.  I loved to hear you switch into Spanish and greet all your friends with a hug.

When you came to Frost, I remember welcoming you and feeling like you were home.  Your selfless kindness and willingness to listen and share has been so valuable to me.  It's been "fun" to shake our heads at our teenage daughters' "adventures."  May we stay strong this fall as we send B and A to college (WAHHHH!) Keep up your tireless crusade for kids and continue working hard to push our fellow teachers to be their best.

Big hugs,
Chris

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Many feelings #SOL16 28/31

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Confident.

That's how I felt as I walked behind Allison, my high school senior, today.  I watched her long strides, walking with purpose, talking with our friend, Kelsey, talking details about college life at Illinois State U.

Quiet.

I stayed quiet as Allison met with an advisor about accommodations.  She asked the questions and got the answers.  I politely answered direct questions and made small talk with the advisor about iPad apps.

Proud.

I feel proud of my daughter.  She's overcome some challenges to get to this campus.  She will have to work hard to keep up with studies, social life and time management.  I think she can do it and so does her dad and the rest of our family and friends.

Grateful.

I'm grateful for friends that will hold me up as I send my baby to college this fall.  

Tired.

We walked 6 miles around campus today! I can't wait to soak my feet tonight!

Together #SOL16 27/31

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This year

I missed the egg hunt, the lamb cake, the kielbasa.

I missed having my nephews run around the yard.

I missed cleaning the house (not really) and hiding the baskets.

I missed helping Jeff cook and mess up the kitchen.

*** yet***

I gained an opportunity to be with my whole family, in one town, spending time together.

I gained a chance to see my oldest, in the middle of a stressful week.

I gained quiet time with my youngest.

I gained good conversation with my husband.

It was worth it

This year.

Road trips! #SOL16 26/31

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The laundry is done, the bags are being packed.

We are heading out on a mini road trip!

This weekend we will visit Lindsey in Iowa City.

On Monday we will visit Bloomington to take an closer look at Illinois State U.

Can I limit what I pack?  

Nope.  

Games, computer (MUST SLICE), two pairs of shoes, comfy clothes, dress up clothes, tooooo much!

Gotta run and hit the road!

Learner Supports #SOL16 25/31

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My husband, Jeff, comes from a long line of teachers:  both of his grandmothers, his great-grandfather, his mother, and his sister.

Jeff works as a management consultant.  His forte is food and beverage distribution.  While working with a client, he realized that the warehouse managers were having trouble visualizing product movement.

As a consultant, Jeff is there to help the client improve their business operations and bottom line.  He is there to make his clients successful.  To make them successful, sometimes it takes some specialized tools.

Imagine my surprise when the coffee table was covered with a mini warehouse one evening.

"Did you get my nephews a new toy?"  I asked.

"Nope.  The warehouse guys needed to see and touch the warehouse.  They don't get it," replied Jeff.

He had ordered a forklift, a worker, pallets, boxes and a telehandler in miniature.

"This is way too CUTE!" I exclaimed.  "You a such a teacher!  It's manipulatives for your kinesthetic learners!

"It's important for them to figure out how to scan a pallet full of mixed products.  They need to see it.  It's not cute, it's a tool!" was his answer, with a smile.  (He is one goofy guy!)

Jeff spent a few hours that week creating slip sheets from paper, cutting a variety of boxes from wood and painting them different colors.  This was all to help his client visualize and better solve their issues.

Today we visited his office and I had to snap a picture and tell the story of his miniature warehouse.  I'm glad my husband is willing to get (cute!) tools and help his clients be successful.

Staff meeting fun #SOL16 24/31

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Working at an elementary school can be lots of fun.  Besides the fun quotes from the kids, the grown ups you work with can make your environment enjoyable. (See Sloth Week Silliness).

Our principal is a great guy - he tries to keep our staff meetings moving along.  It's best if he can get someone to keep the notes while he talks because it's tricky to do both.  I usually volunteer to take notes so I can keep my brain from wandering off.  I like to keep in the conversation and have some fun, too!

Today I created a Google doc and our principal displayed the doc from his computer on the smartboard.  Someone asked me if the Google doc showed live updates, I replied with, "Hi Stephanie!" on the doc.  Later I was changing line items as we went along, adding smiling faces and symbols for a bit of fun.  When we talked about signaling your class for attention, the 4th grade team suggested "BooYah, Grandma!" so I made sure that was in big print on the screen.

Another way to have fun at a staff meeting is to have a book giveaway.  For our reading night, we spent some building funds on books for our students who attended.  I brought a pile of books to our staff meeting today.  It always makes me smile when people get excited about a $4 Scholastic paperback.  

My favorite way of having fun at staff meetings is to play Kahoot!  I've made little silly quizzes at Kahoot.it during the meeting (as a review).  Then we all pull out our cell phones at the end to play.  It's always surprising when some of our quietest staff members become the most competitive!

You have touched our heart #SOL16 23/31

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One of our first grade teachers went on maternity leave in January.  Her long-term sub, Mrs. M., is just lovely.  She's organized, kind, and very patient with the kiddos.

Tomorrow is her last

Today I walked into the first grade room (I pull groups three times each morning - I'm a regular visitor) and told Mrs. M.  that I would be taking her friends.  I told her she would understand later.

I beckoned to a few friends that I usually don't take, and whispered to them in the hallway,

"Today we are making a secret surprise for Mrs. M.  Tomorrow is her last day."

They beamed and made "Os" with their mouths.  (Six and seven year olds are usually not trusted with secrets.)

I walked each group (this took 30 minutes!) to my room, explained the project, helped them make their mark, then walked them back.  They all assured me they would not tell Mrs. M about the project.  (I saved the usual announcer for my last helper.  Smart, right!?!?)

Later, I brought the project back to Mrs. M and the kiddos helped present it to her.  There were hugs and happy tears and shouts of joy.  Of course I don't have a picture - this morning was all about getting Mrs. M her present.  (Here is a pic from Pinterest to give you the gist.  I had the students put their fingerprints in a heart, then sign their names on the bottom.)

Image from Pinterest Link

We will miss you, Mrs. M!  

Please take care! 

We hope to snatch you up to teach in our building soon!

Chocolate #SOL16 22/31

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Ask anyone about my favorite sweet (family, students, strangers) and they will tell you it's chocolate.

My favorite holiday is the day AFTER Valentine's Day when the chocolate is on sale.  (No, not really.  I will pay full price chocolate any time).

I've become a bit of a chocolate snob over the years, but I've always preferred dark chocolate.  Semi sweet chocolate chips do fine in a pinch, but hand me some Dove Promises, and I'm your BFF!

My students think it's especially funny that I admit to loving chocolate so much.  They expect grownups to tout the benefits of vegetables and fruit.  "Chocolate grows on trees," I tell them.  Then I explain the cacao bean and tell them I dream of planting a cacao tree in my yard.

Sandra Boynton is one of my favorite illustrators and authors.  I have loved her work since I discovered a button in college with a hippo trying to hug a cake ("I never met a carbohydrate I didn't like!)  I was SO excited to order her new book, Chocolate: The Consuming Passion.  My husband laughed when he saw it in our online bookstore cart.  "The kids will love that one!" 

Well... this book will not be going to school.  It's for grown ups, and it's all about chocolate, so I will be keeping it for myself.  Unless you want to read it, but then I need it back!  It really is a sweet read!

Image from Amazon.com

All this writing about chocolate is making me crave a bit of dark chocolate.  You, too?

It's Monday #SOL16 21/31

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It's Monday.  My students were pretty calm today.  I got some of my toughest customers to read today.  I had a great conversation with my 4th graders, activating their schema on U.S. monuments and symbols (kids were leaping out of their chairs!).

It's Monday.  My youngest daughter doesn't feel well.  She was on an emotional roller coaster yesterday.  Up early, didn't sleep.  I'm almost as tired.

It's Monday.  I got up a tiny bit late (see above), but I left the house near 7:00 a.m. and flew past two high schools, their parking lots completely empty.  The local schools are on spring break.

It's Monday.  I had to go to the grocery store after work.  Must. Get. Coffee.  I look up and see that the moon is full.  "It's a silly wives tale," you say.  Perhaps you don't work at an elementary school.

It's Monday.  A beautiful pot roast was in the oven when I got home.  MMMMMMMM.  So grateful for my Chef Jeff!

It's Monday.  My students requested books from the public library.  I spent 30 minutes browsing the non fiction section.  Who knew there were books on zombies in 001.49??

It's Monday.  I'm finished with my slice.  Now I'm off to read and comment on other slices.  Not a bad way to end a Monday!

Focus, learn, do well #SOL16 20/31

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I told my dad that I am taking more grad school classes this spring.  I plan to get my ESL (for sure) and special ed (maybe) endorsements in addition to reading and elementary teaching licenses.

"I wondered if you were going to start a doctorate program," said my dad.

It's not that I mind taking classes to improve my teaching.  I don't.  I just don't think a doctorate is what I need.  I'm come to the realization that teaching reading in elementary school is right where I want to be.  To better serve my students, an ESL endorsement is key (many districts agree).  Special education courses will help to become more responsive to students' needs.

Right now I want to focus on what I can do to make a difference for my students.  One grad school class at a time hopefully won't take away from my family and fun time.  I do wish a class would require little less time on the computer (oh, my neck!), but I have to be smart about stretching!

I have lots of room to grow as a learner, teacher and colleague.  I have lots of skills and strategies I can share.  Right now, that's what I'll focus on.

Slow Saturdays #SOL16 19/31

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Saturdays start when I wake up and decide to venture into the kitchen for breakfast.  I make a coffee and froth the milk so it's fluffy and scramble some eggs.

I open the blinds and read Friday & Saturday's newspapers as I listen to the birds chirping.

As I sip my coffee slowly, I take note of all the fun things to do in the paper, wondering what I should put on the calendar.  (We should get tickets for Aladdin the musical!  I must tell Allison about the Family Pet Expo!)

Laundry is started, sports scores are noted, and Twitter is checked.  Today I ran some errands and cleaned out my car.

Jeff likes to get lunch out on Saturday, and then we'll take a drive somewhere.  Today's adventure took us to the outlet mall (purses!!!) and then a side trip into Geneva.

Snack time!  I enjoyed a decadent mocha and a few bites of apple pie at the All Chocolate Kitchen.  We won't need dinner until much, much later tonight.

Now that the girls are grown and managing their own calendars, I relish my slow Saturdays!

"I got a BOOK!" #SOL16 18/31

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Last night was my inaugural family reading night at my new school.  Yes, I've been a raving lunatic leading up to the event (can you spell S-T-R-E-S-S?) and I appreciate all the help and support from my students and fellow teachers and staff.

Today we tallied up the punch cards turned in during the reading night.  Then we counted up the books I ordered (thanks to my principal who spends money on books!).  Yes, it was going to be an exciting morning.... there were enough books for every student who attended the reading night to receive a book to keep!

My coworker Jill and I set up the classroom like a bookstore.  Mo Willems, chapter books, books in Spanish, and nonfiction titles were spread out for easy browsing.  We had the fourth graders come first (pickiest readers - I get it!) so they had first pick.

During little commercials in the classrooms yesterday, I told students they had a chance to win a book.  Today I wish I could have snapped a picture of their faces as we told each group that all of them had won a book.  It was magical.

Kids spent time just walking around and staring at the books at first.  I then told them they should pick them up and browse - just to make sure.  Some friends made deals to read their books, then swap so they could read another new book.

Giving books to kids will never get old.

Celebrate Reading / Celebrar la Lectura! #SOL16 17/31

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We did it!  A little idea of a reading night to celebrate reading turned into the real deal.

Many staff helped before, during and after the event to make it run smoothly.

Parents and kids had smiles as we punched holes in their "reading passports," keeping track of what rooms they visited.

Read alouds, book browsing rooms, Book Flix in the computer lab, create a bookmark and become an author.

73 families attended!

My feet are sore, my cheeks hurt from smiling, but I'm so very grateful to all my coworkers and students.

The celebration finishes tomorrow morning as I pull passports from each classroom and students win A FREE BOOK!

#schooljoy

March Gladness #SOL16 16/31

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Two Writing Teachers

Even though it was pouring and windy and gross this morning, I don't mind March... that much.

Of course, it's busy - this week includes lots of student meetings and family reading night on top of my regular schedule.  Does that stop me from getting way too exciting about basketball and competition?

Nope!

We have a family competition connected to the March Madness basketball games.  Each member of the family picks one team per region to win.  The person who picks the team that goes the farthest gets a restaurant gift card.  If I'm the winner, I usually make the kids read a book (tee hee) or deep clean their rooms.  

This year Lindsey is away in Michigan on a service trip with spotty internet service.  Since she was not able to participate, I asked her friends, Mikayla and Emily, if they wanted to be part of the fun.  

We decided to make our team picks on Monday night.  Jeff was in charge of making Skype work  to chat with the college girls.  Allison called from her boyfriend Eric's house (just across town) and they joined the process.

It was a blast chatting with Emily and Mikayla.  We had tours of their rooms (unexpected!) and made snarky comments about Emily's beloved Spartans.  Allison relished in picking teams that weren't quite the tops seeds while Eric tried to overrule her decisions.  Mikayla and Allison were bummed that their current and future schools didn't make the cut.

Need to find a reason to chat up your kids and their friends?  A friendly competition does the trick. 

 

Friends #SOL16 15/31

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Two Writing Teachers

This week, more than usual, I'm realizing how incredibly lucky I am when it comes to friends.

Friends are checking in with me to make sure I'm not too stressed.

Friends are offering to bring extra snacks when it's my turn.

Friends are writing super sweet comments and slices.

Friends are bringing coffee to class.

I'm surrounded by wonderful people that I'm proud to call my friends. 

From Quotesology.com

Life's Little Problems #SOL16 14/31

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Two Writing Teachers

Today's slice is inspired by Amy Krouse Rosenthal's book, This Plus That:  Life's Little Equations.

From Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Alarm clock + dark = "It can't be time to get up!"

Toe + shoe + dark = ouch

Cold floor + feet = brrrrr

Warm shower + (shampoo x 2) + soap - soap = squeaky clean

Cheerios + milk = breakfast

Headlights + rainclouds - rain = foggy drive

467 students ÷ (2 buses + 100 cars + lots of walkers) = traffic

Smile + "Good morning" = coworker

Daylight savings time change + first graders = tricky

Read alouds + all intervention students = all better

Clock + 3:15 p.m. = guilty

Clock + 3:20 p.m. = over it + get in car + drive home

Husband cooking + snack break + comfy clothes = pure happiness

Fashion #SOL16 13/31

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Two Writing Teachers

Today I spent a fun day with my youngest daughter, Allison.  We had a quiet morning until we realized we had lost an hour of our shopping day due to Daylight Savings. (Grrr - tomorrow will be rough!)

We snarfed down some crackers and cheese to hold us over and headed to the shop full of prom dresses.  Yes, it's only March, but it's fun to get to the shop within a week of its opening.  The selection is great and it's not terribly crowded.

I was amazed (as usual) at the vast variety of shapes, styles and colors.  It would shock me if anyone left empty handed.  There were rows and rows in all sizes, every color of the rainbow (plus all the metallics), and styles including mermaid, a-line, trumpet and ball gown.

Yup, I'm one of those people.  Addicted to the fashion shows, especially on TLC.  I will not say no to watching "Say Yes to the Dress" or "What Not to Wear" or my new favorite, "Love, Lust or Run."  I'm by no means a fashionista.  Allison thought about majoring in fashion merchandising or purchasing for awhile, but to us, fashion is a hobby.  One we watch and find interesting from our couch!!

I think the most intriguing aspect of fashion is the psychology behind it.  Perhaps people feel like it's important to look like a fashion model - thin, angry, angular.  Then we have more curvy models (hooray!) featured.  Women especially are caught up with the size printed on their clothes, and we can't help but feel inadequate when the number is two digits.

The good news about today is that I saw more smiles than frowns.  Even when girls tried on a dress that wasn't the style or color they wanted, the salesgirls and moms were all smiles.  The music was upbeat and the lights made the sequins sparkle.  The salesgirls were complimentary with every single dress my daughter and the girls around us tried on.  When some girls didn't want to step out of their dressing room, the salesgirls went over and provided positive feedback.

It's all about feeling your best and wearing clothes that you love.  If you're into fashion or fashion psychology, I recommend Stacy London's book, The Truth About Style.  She is so supportive of women wearing clothes that accentuate their positive attributes and make them feel good.

from Amazon

Volunteers #SOL16 12/31

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Two Writing Teachers

The text message read, "I'm basically visiting for spring break!  I'm in Illinois right now!"

My oldest has a keen sense of humor.  Lindsey is traveling from Iowa to Michigan to spend her spring break in the service of others.  The U of Iowa has eight Hawkeye Service Teams across the US providing manpower to local nonprofits.  I'm proud of Lindsey for giving her time this week.  I think she will benefit from the week even more than the people she will assist.  I can't wait to hear all about it, especially the work she will do with a group who works with children to help them publish their stories.

This morning Allison and her friend, Jillian, headed to their high school to work at Cupcakes for a Cause.  The special education department holds this event each year to benefit a local foundation. As someone who is usually dragged out of bed each morning, Allison surprised me by getting up early (!!) to set up the event.

I'm very proud of these two.  They both chose to help others.  I sometimes feel like I could give more through an organization, but I can also forgive myself for taking time to know my students and figure out my new job.  Serving others comes in waves and should be one of our priorities.  So many people benefit.

(Hmmm.  Maybe I should write up my Little Free Library plans today.  I hope to set one up in my yard this summer.  More slices to come about that process!)

   

Friday doodle slice #SOL16 11/31

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Two Writing Teachers

Today is Friday!  Since I'm still pretty wiped out from this week, I decided to slice with a doodle.  I had a pretty full day, now that I look back at it.  Wishing you a relaxing evening and productive (or restorative) weekend!

Toast #SOL16 10/31

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Two Writing Teachers

I'm thankful it's Thursday.

At 12:00 a.m. took a call from the oldest (she's feeling overwhelmed)

At 5:00 a.m. the birds were happily chirping.  Woke up.  Draggggggged out of bed.

Arrived at school, taught, ran around, read, wrote, updated Google docs

DRANK 3 CUPS OF COFFEE!

Hosted afterschool club - couldn't find snack, one crying child, nine excited newbies

Dinner, groceries, Twitter chat, laundry.

Time to SLICE!

I will catch up on comments tomorrow... I promise!

(Thanks for letting me vent.)

Hello Kids.com

I'm TOAST!

Sloth Week Silliness #SOL16 9/31

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Two Writing Teachers

I work with two self-professed, Disney-crazed special educators.  30-something Michelle,  "Mickey," and 20-something Michelle, "MZ"  are my partners in crime.  They are a great team, and I'm happy to pop my 40-something head in their room for a laugh.  They keep me centered, lighthearted and sane.

The reason I mention our decades is that I've found that fun has no age limit. This is important to note when looking for friends in the workplace.  

Last week, Mickey was carrying around a small stuffed animal sloth.  She encouraged me to watch the Zootopia movie trailer featuring the sloth that works at the DMV.  Holy cow.  Hysterical!  We lovingly joked that one of our students moves at the same pace as a sloth.

From this website

Since we started talking about sloths, I now see them everywhere!  I've been a bit frazzled this week, so I started searching memes and GIFs of sloths.  There was even one on TV!

From this meme website

  

I dubbed this week Sloth Week (move over Shark Week!) and I've been sending sloths to Mickey and MZ all week.  When will Sloth Week end?  Maybe when I run out of pictures of this smiling, fuzzy, tree-dwelling mammal.

The moral of the story is.... find something each week to help you smile, even if it's something... very... silly!