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I knew I had to have this shirt from Pippi Post as soon as I saw it, because there is not a lot that compares to finding a favorite new book! It says, "I like to party, and by party, I mean read books." If you have not visited the Pippi Post Shop, you MUST! Use my link now and you will be amazed at their adorable 'bookish' merchandise!   

You may have heard that the phenomenal, vibrant, truly delightful creative genius, Iris Apfel, has passed away. She died yesterday at the age of 102. I have followed her life and career for as long as I can possibly remember. She was a powerful woman who represented style, but so much more. She showed us all that we can express ourselves as we see fit, and that our ideas are worthy, simply because they are ours!

March is Women's History Month – commemorating and encouraging the study, observance and celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture, and society.

Why a 'One Word' and not a resolution? For the past five years, I have greatly appreciated the process that choosing a one word requires. It is all about reflecting on the past year, with all its joys and challenges, and intentionally deciding how I want to spend my time and energy going forward. My One Word is 'enthusiasm' because I know that when I am at my best, it is because I have a vision or cause that I am passionate about. My one word is to remind me that life is short, and that I can and should focus on the things that matter, and in ways I can truly make a difference. Making a difference, to me, always requires a dedicated mindset, clarity, and great enthusiasm! I especially like the use of the word 'enthusiasm' in the following quotes:       

Yesterday I created a self-affirmation mirror for my new kindergarten classroom, and I was surprised at all the positive feedback I received on my social media posts! Many people thought it was a much-needed addition to a classroom, and someone even said, "Every child's bedroom should have one!"  I agree, but self-affirmations are not just for kids, so here are some great holiday gifts that will allow you to bring positive messages home to a little (or big!) one you love:  

It's been a busy weekend for me as I am soon to be transitioning from being a school administrator in a small town to a kindergarten teacher in the inner-city district I began my career in, which also happens to be in the school I met my husband in 23 years ago. Can you tell I'm excited?!

As I look back at my week, I find myself thinking about our youngest learners. Children who come to the school for the first time, whether it's for pre-school or kindergarten, truly require a special kind of care and attention. All of a sudden, they need to listen to others, play with others, and set boundaries with others. They are expected to complete tasks and learn skills, and hopefully they will receive praise and positive reinforcement from their teachers. They need this emotional support to inspire their self-confidence and to get them ready for more learning. It is important for all children, but especially our youngest learners, to be in a setting that is safe and inviting. They need to know that it is acceptable to experience different emotions, and how to express them. I feel that when we put the time in to help children self-regulate, whether it is through individualized plans or school-wide initiatives, we are then doing our best to lay down the best foundation for authentic learning.

November 13, 2023