The text message arrived this morning, "We'll be in town this afternoon - want to meet for lunch?
My husband and I met our friends Kris & Eric in 1996 when we rented a townhouse next to them. I was pregnant, they had no kids, but we both had Labrador retrievers. Their chocolate lab, Bailey, was sweet and innocent. Our lab, Candy, was full of mischief and vigor.
Over the years, there's we have shared numerous adventures: a cruise celebrating 30th birthdays, sharing dinners, building decks. We've supported each other through the roller coasters of raising kids (them = 3, us = 2), and weathered tough situations: mourning parents and saying goodbye to pets.
A few years ago K & E moved to Wisconsin. They are less than two hours away, but our visits and messages are fewer. The kids now range in age from 25 to 15, two are moved out on their own.
So today we met for lunch, then spent some extra time with two of the kids while other errands were run. We caught up on everything ... jobs, travel, kids, opportunities and bumps in the road.
It's really great to pick up where you left off with lifelong friends.
Last year, all the interventionists and I (reading and math) shared a classroom. We were in the last room down the primary hallway, so many people didn't venture down to see us. The students LOVED that room, with it's bookshelves for dividers, puffy pillows on the floor and some days (gasp!) we used the SMART board.
This year, our kindergarten population POPPED and our intervention team (including me!) moved all the stuff (not the pillows) to our former-computer-lab-then-STEM-lab-now-open-room in the middle of the library media center. We set up the middle tables as "mission control" - a workspace for each of us, facing each other. We designated the outside tables as "visitor parking" for our OT, PT, math coach, orchestra teacher and band teacher. The now-open-room is now called ...
The LIT lab.
Now don't stress about our math interventionist. She's a big reader, too, and LIT lab sounds way cooler than the calculation lab or the equation lab. See what I mean?
This year has been a challenge as we are all traveling on carts. The math and dual language interventionists went with push-down-the-hall, two-shelf carts. I ordered a rolling crate on Amazon. When it's nearing 8:10 and it's time to head to the classrooms we work in (thank you to all who host us!), we roll three across the hallway to our destinations.
The LIT lab is a place of safety. We can close the door and talk openly. There are rarely students in the LIT lab ... only for one-on-one testing or OT time, if needed. It's a purely grown-up space for stuff and us.
Have you heard the song from Moana, "You're Welcome!" sung by Dwayne Johnson? It's become the unofficial song of the LIT lab. We are a pretty accommodating bunch (especially if you ask us!) and we do our best to help out classroom teachers, the library staff (who buys us chocolate!) and each other. When we express gratitude to each other, it's almost always in song.
As much as I hated the idea of pushing in to classrooms (I am a LOUD teacher), it's working. I bring my bookshelf to my students every couple of weeks, or I drag a box of graphic novels with me. I'm forced to stay organized and on top of my materials because my cart is very small.
The LIT lab gives us a place to let out a bit of stress steam, and has made our relationships stronger on the intervention team. You're welcome!
Life is like an orange...
it has so many slices!
Join the fun at Two Writing Teachers
Michelle sent me a text a few months back, "Ruth is coming to Judson University!"
You better believe I wasted no time as I requested a personal day and registered to learn from a guru of helping kids and teachers write.
Ruth co-founded Two Writing Teachers with Stacey. They also wrote a book together, and Ruth has written a few books on her own, including Enticing Hard-to-Reach Writers.
Why was this a special day? I'm glad you asked!
I met some new people from other schools and other grade levels.
Michelle and I got to hang out and be learners instead of teachers at different schools.
My brain was working and thinking and caring about how I was going to get more writing time for my students, and how I could be a better teacher for kids who need the most.
I spent the day tweeting out Ruth's message and gems of knowledge (look on Twitter for #ADAJ18).
(Today my oldest daughter sent me a text, "Mom - your Twitter was LIT yesterday!)
By far my favorite moments of the day were speaking with Ruth and Michelle during breaks and at the end of the seminar. I am sort of a fangirl when it comes to meeting authors. I know they are humans, but they've done something amazing.... write a book!
Thanks to Ruth for sharing her thinking with the crowd, and for letting me know she appreciates my "playful spirit." (Even if I do think that's code for I was a bit silly at times) :)
I spent yesterday visiting three schools. When I pulled up to the first school, I was early. I drove around the neighborhood, just to calm my nerves.
Two of my friends are transferring schools after many years at one building. Their plans were to check in with the office staffs, scope out classrooms and walk their new buildings. I was just along as a support person, but I couldn't help feeling jittery for my friends.
Once we got to the office, my first friend introduced herself to the secretaries and sounded confident. The two of us stood behind her smiling. "Brought an entourage, huh!?" laughed the secretary.
"We're her team, her tribe!" I chuckled.
We toured, we checked out rooms, we compared schools. We relaxed. We eventually were brave enough to knock on the conference room door and introduce ourselves to the new administration.
After smiles, introductions and handshakes, we left school number one. We decided the visit was a little awkward but worth the time. We then drove over to school number two.
At school two, we reconnected with staff members from other schools and checked in with the office staff. The second school was fun to tour because we had more confidence. We shared some laughs and jokes with the custodial staff. My friend who will be moving to this school began planning furniture placement.
The final school I visited was the one I left two years ago. It was really sweet to catch up with the secretaries and AP. As I closed the door firmly behind me, I confirmed that my decision to leave was right for me.
Now I'm ready to help my friends transition to new schools, new staff, new students. They are both bringing their vast collection of books, which they will find to be a bridge to making new connections and friends. I will be there for them when they have celebrations and struggles, just like they have for me.
My friend Wendy from high school publisher her first book last week. HOORAY! YIPPEE! I attended her book signing at the Barnes & Noble near my school.
Our group was a party of six: Sue (HS friend), Michelle, Nick and Sarah (work friends). We enjoyed dinner and drinks before going to the bookstore. It was fun to mix a group of young (<25) and seasoned (*ahem*) and teachers and non teacher for laughs, conversation and book love.
When we arrived at the bookstore before the event. We hugged and visited with Wendy, hoping to calm her nerves. Mona, another friend from elementary school, was right at the entrance. A few more HS friends came through and I snapped a few selfies (I'm really no good at them!).
It was really fun to catch up with some book-loving friends, and see Wendy at a table signing HER book. I couldn't wait to get to school the next day. I had told my 4th and 5th graders that I would be attending a book signing of a "real author!" Although the book YA romance and geared to high schoolers, I promised my students I would show them the book.
The next morning I hosted a group of my fourth graders. Usually there are four girls and one boy, but my lone gentleman was not at school. I showed the girls the cover and Wendy's signature and note in the front. One of the girls wanted to start reading it (yikes!) but I gently recovered the book and flipped to the back, and summarized the"About the author" information. E asked if they could hear some more so I flipped to the acknowledgements. I scanned and pointed out how authors like to thank their families and publishers and others that helped them with the book. All four girls were crowded around me, and all at once. I saw it. My name. In the acknowledgements.
*gasp*
I have to admit, my eyes started to tear. I was overcome with emotions. At first the girls watched me in shock, and then I explained what I had found. They squealed. E jumped up, "YOU'RE FAMOUS!" We decided to show Mrs. Hernandez, our library para. The girls had to nearly carry me.
I explained to the girls that this amazing thing had happened to me for two reasons (I think). One, I've tried to be a good friend, and 2) I read one of Wendy's books and provided some feedback.
I'm so humbled to be mentioned. I'm such a little speck in the writing process, and I was truly happy to help my friend by reading!! My heart is so full for Wendy. She faced a bunch of waiting and rejection and realized her dream. I'm so glad to have her as a role model for the readers and the writers in my classroom, even if I don't hand them her book...yet. (I'll make sure their high school has a copy!)
Join the Slice of Life Challenge Write every day in March Write from your heart. Two Writing Teachers
I met Beth in 1973 when our parents bought new houses on the same street. She lived on one side, and I lived on the other, three doors down.
We attended kindergarten together. We played all sorts of dress up games, forcing my brother to be her husband or pizza guy or our pet dog. We rode bikes, swam in our backyard pools and sang Billy Joel songs at the top of our lungs.
In 1979 (mid-4th grade) our parents both looked for new houses. Would you believe they bought lots on the same street in a new town? They didn't even find out this exciting fact (Beth and I squealed!) until each had put down a deposit.
My brain is a spinning top filled with ideas, music, books, words and worries.
Beth has a great way of clearly stating what needs to be done, she has a great flair for decorating, and she's generous with her time and advice.
In August, Beth moved to Arizona with her husband, cat and dog. When she was here in Illinois, she was a 30 minute ride away. We saw each other pretty often for dinner and other fun events. I'm so glad for the internet, texting and good old phone calls to connect with my friend, especially when I get super wound up about life.
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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Today I traveled an hour away to see a dear friend. We met in 1993 at a marketing firm when I worked on the help desk and she was part of the computer purchasing team.
Carol and I are friends who won't see each other for months, yet pick up where we left off. She's got a great attitude and no agenda. Whatever we decide to do, minute-to-minute, it's great. If she has a better idea, she will offer it. No biggie if you want to do something else.
Our conversations run the gamut from husbands (every wife needs a little venting time to truly appreciate her hubby), to kids, to home repair and HGTV, to cooking (or baking - it's more fun), to family drama.
I like spending time with Carol because as much as she's a great talker, she is a great listener. She lets me think out loud and dream and problem solve. When I say I shouldn't complain about small problems when other people have big problems, she tells me,
"That problem is big to you. You are allowed to feel however you need to feel."
Carol has seen all sides of me: techy nerd, out-of-state resident, new mom, career changer, software widow, mom-to-teens. She continues to be a friend, and nothing I do or say will change that.
I'm glad to have her in my life, especially when she sends a fun text message. She reminds me to live in the moment and appreciate what is going well.
Karen and Michelle and I have an ongoing group text message.
These ladies are my reading resource buddies at work.
They are my friends.
This year they are my lifelines.
If I need...
a book
an idea
a minute to whine
or
to celebrate,
they are there.
Sharing
Listening
Thinking
Typing as fast as they can.
It's pretty awesome
to have two coaches at my fingertips.
Friends.
Confidantes.
Book lovers.
Learners.
Thinkers.
Silly emoji users. (That's the best).
Last week I found this quote on Pinterest. It sums up how I feel about Karen and Michelle.
They are my tribe.
My oldest daughter, Lindsey, had a very interesting end to her senior year of high school. This spring she played her third season of varsity lacrosse. The team was meshing beautifully and working well together, but many injuries, illnesses and concussions plagued the team throughout the season. Excitedly, the girls entered the playoffs. In the first 17 seconds of the first game, Lindsey got possession of the ball. She turned and fell. Pop! The athletic trainer's years of experience led him to believe (correctly) that her ACL and meniscus were torn.
You can only imagine the rush of emotions that followed. While her leg didn't really hurt (but her knee was very swollen), Lindsey's heart was broken. In her mind, she had let her team down.
The girls took their grief over Lindsey's injury and turned it into a force. They played their hearts out. We spent the evening in the trainer's office, and then we heard the news. The team had won the game!!!
Lindsey commented later that week that she was awestruck by all the positive texts, tweets and hugs she received from her teammates and friends. #DoItForLRay was their hashtag. Lindsey and I talked about how she found out, through a terrible event, how much her friends cared about her. We decided that people need to hear caring thoughts, especially when things are going right.
The next few weeks went by in a blur: senior picnic, senior breakfast, prom, a trip to the beach, and graduation. All with a wrapped knee, and a smile on her face, once she decided to make the most of the situation.
Three days ago she had surgery to fix her knee. The texts, snapachats, and visitors are helping keep her spirits high. It's not the summer before college that Lindsey imagined, but I think she will look back and treasure the time spent with her friends.
Yesterday was my best friend's birthday. Beth is the kind of friend that everyone needs in their life!
We met when we were four years old. We lived on the same street, but I had to get across the street and walk past a few houses to get to her house. Kindergarten was with Mrs. Maki. We got to play "house", sing songs, and celebrate graduation with a pinata!
Our moms started a Brownie troop for us and many other girls. We had great times playing with Barbies, riding bikes, and spending long hours on the swing set. At the end of 4th grade, her parents found a new house in a town a few minutes away. My parents were looking for a new house that spring, too. The universe wanted us together... our parents (unknowingly) bought houses four lots away from each other on the same street!
Throughout the years, we've been very close, traveled in different circles, had a variety of other friends and interests. This hasn't stopped us from picking right back up where we left off, every time we talk.
Beth is caring, kind and selfless. She's organized, thoughtful, and gives you just enough of a push to get you going when you're stuck. She can handle the most stressful situation with ease and poise. You may think she's a pushover, but she's far from it!
Happy birthday to my best friend, 40 years and counting! Thanks for always being there for me and my family. You are a treasure!
After finally finding all the *&^% paperwork for our taxes (Grrrr!), I jumped in the car to visit my friend, Carol. We worked on the same floor at a marketing firm back in the early 90s. She was in a numbers job and I was on the help desk - the perfect place for a new teacher who was afraid to set foot in the classroom.
Carol and I have been friends for a long time, but we don't see each other very often. We have similar shopping styles (wander, touch everything, only buy on sale) and we are givers - she enjoys sending notes and funny "how ya doin'" texts, I like to coordinate nights out and make lots of phone calls.
I drove the hour to her house and we had lunch. In a matter of minutes, we had caught up on everything from family drama to favorite vacations to teenagers. We simply talked and talked and talked. We decided that our husbands are annoying but we love them dearly (really they are awesome - they picked us as wives!).
It's fun to spend the afternoon with a friend who doesn't live nearby or work with you - they bring fresh perspective to your life, and confirm or redirect your feelings. It's also important to spend lots of time together in the purse department... just because it's fun!
It's funny. As a teenager, I used the phone. A lot. We had to get call waiting the day it was available in 1985 because my grandfather tried to call our house the night I had one of my 2 hour talk fests with a friend. Grandpa was a patient guy, but that busy signal put him over the edge.
If you needed an ear, you called me. I would listen and talk and talk some more. I made phone calls when I babysat, letting my cousins talk with my friends. In high school, I got math help over the phone, and I've done some serious major matchmaking, too.
As much as I chaste my teens to "Put the phone down and get your work done!" I'm guilty of a lot of phone and screen time myself recently.
During the past two weeks I've managed to reconnect with six people I haven't talked with in months or years. It seems like the months between Christmas and Easter become a quiet time around here. There's no family birthdays to pull us together, and the weather makes us want to stay inside.
I've had some news to talk about, so my friends and family have been calling, or I've been reaching out via email. I've also had some friends pop up and make comments on Facebook, out of the blue. I've asked for them to check their calendars and find time for us to catch up.
Spring reminds me that no matter how long it's been since we last talked, today is a good day to start again. Some of us will be able to pick up where we left off. With others, it will just be a one-time conversation, then we'll go back to our busy lives and reconnect in the future.
It's important to keep in touch with the important people in our lives.
My youngest made a positive transition from junior high to the high school back in August. She made the pom squad, had the right class placements and knew lots of people because she's a friendly, outgoing, silly kid.
Now that spring has almost sprung, poms season has finished. She has more down time. More time to think and text and chat. She spent two weeks feeling down and dark. Her grades slipped, she felt alone, she didn't know why.
We attended a meeting a school. Talked about more providing academic challenges. Discussed changing a few things so her peer group would be mixed. She needs positive, goal-minded people around her.
This week she's been more positive, more willing to try new activities - those usually out of her comfort zone. She's mentioning new friends. Girls that are in band, and involved in the community. Girls that accept her silly, upbeat nature and don't call her weird.
I'm hoping my youngest will continue to find the right people for her circle of friends. She is a loyal friend, but she continues to be let down and sometimes shunned by others.
I truly hope her new friendships bloom, and she will grow from her experiences.
