So Much to Celebrate...So Little Time!

Thank you Ruth for inspiring me to always look for the celebrations in life! 

Ending the school year is like running a marathon! I'm at the 26th mile...only two-tenths left and like a marathon (or so I imagine, I've never run one) there are ups and downs, especially so close to the finish line. Exhaustion is setting in with all of us and worries about changes in routine and the unknown of next year. The anticipation and excitement to reach the end, to complete the goal, and to begin a season of fun, relaxation, and freedom also hovers. Focusing on the good helps me so much during the craziness of the end! Here are some reasons to celebrate this week...

*Encouragement. I've been reminded this week of the power of encouragement. On Friday, I had the privilege of being the guest blogger at Two Writing Teachers blog and I wrote about notebooks. The comments and emails and messages that I received humbled me. Reading the words of encouragement from teachers and friends I respect so much...well, that made my day...week...year! A couple of those people even suggested I take this topic and turn it into a book. Hmmm...encouragement. It's powerful!

*Students, compliments & fancy pens.
If you read this blog or know me, you know I have an obsession (some may call it unhealthy) with pens. My students are well aware of this too. At the end of every year, I like to take some time to have us reflect and show kindness to each other. The form has been different every year. This year I borrowed a simple form from my friend Lee Ann...blank piece of paper, name at the top, sit in a circle, exchange and write a compliment. I upped the ante with the fancy pens. Students started reaching for their pens and pencils and I told them to put them away. They looked at me quizzically and I turned and reached for a container with my fancy pens. They GASPED. I heard them GASP. "We get to use those?!?! Really?!?!" I laughed and nodded and shared my fancy pens. The compliments were meaningful & heartfelt & so special!

*Friends. Family.
Last night I enjoyed dinner with my friends, who are like family. My Framily?!?! We celebrated Sean's 16th birthday. I've known Sean his whole life and seeing him grow into this thoughtful, kind, funny, sweet young man is a privilege. I sat next to Kevin (the sweetest twelve year old you'll ever meet) and we laughed and giggled through dinner. There's nothing like ending a crazy week with those that know you and love you so well.