Musings from a middle school reading specialist. I encourage my students to read, talk, write, and have fun!
I parent two amazing young-adult daughters with my husband of 30+ years.

March 12, 2016

Volunteers #SOL16 12/31

It's the annual Slice of Life Story Challenge!
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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!)

   

8 comments:

  1. Volunteers make the world go round! Congrats on raising a humanitarian! Being impactful and understanding the potential for the impact are great feelings. So happy for you both.

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  2. Volunteers make the world go round! Congrats on raising a humanitarian! Being impactful and understanding the potential for the impact are great feelings. So happy for you both.

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  3. Kudos to you and Jeff for raising such caring daughters! Just awesome! Hugs

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  4. Super that you have raised two thoughtful generous children. (My stepson graduates from U of Iowa in May) Yes, A LIttle Free Library is perfect for a teacher! Great idea.....maybe a boy scout would like to build it for you as a service project then you would just stock it and monitor it!

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  5. Such rewarding and fulfilling work for both girls - you should be very proud of them. So many people will benefit from their willingness to volunteer. Looking forward to seeing your plans for the Little Free Library.

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  6. How wonderful that your daughter actually got up early hahaha in order to serve others. Serving others is something we do everyday as teachers and mothers. You have taught your daughters well.
    I can't wait to hear about your free library!!!!! Please write more!

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  7. Yeah for both the girls! So proud of their generosity and thoughtfulness of others. Can't wait to hear more about it. And YES to the Little Free Library ... I know Jeff can help create something perfect!!!

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