New versus Update

I thought I wanted a new blog design to go with my new job. But as I started talking to my blog designer friend Barb (find her website HERE), I realized that I was not quite ready to let go of the old blog design. 

I love the colors, and the fonts. How in the world am I going to find something else that I love?

So, instead of working at trying to get an idea for a new blog design, and looking at pre-made designs, I was grateful when Barb said, "I can do that update." And she was soooo quick!

I love it!

Similar to the old, but ready for the new.

Need a blog design? I highly recommend Barb! Thanks Barb!!! You have made me very happy today. 

Remember--see Barb for your blog design needs!

My Big News

I'm moving schools and grades.

I couldn't be happier! Don't get me wrong...I love my old school. I grew up there. I had my undergrad teacher training there (I was there for 5 years). That school, the families, the teachers and staff, the community will always be my home.

Change is good. It challenges me. Change allows me to grow in ways that I didn't see coming. I'm looking forward to this change. 

Change is also scary. A new building, new families, new teachers and staff. Lots of new to learn.

Yesterday I visited my new room. A KINDERGARTEN classroom, in a school that is closer to my home. It is lovely! And HUGE. And the teacher is retiring, so she is basically leaving me everything. Including the mandated rocking chair. She is so sweet.

Today I finished packing my old room and moved most of it home or to my new room.

Then I went back to my old school. Looked through my closet one more time, grabbed my fish and plants, turned off the lights, locked the door, and left. 

Tomorrow I will turn in my key.

It will be a couple of months until I can get into my new space, so in the meantime, I have gathered some books and I'm ready to make some Kindergarten plans.

Summer Break, Phase One

I'm not on Summer Break. But Phase One is in full swing.

It is time for me to let go. But it is so hard.

These kids. My kids. We have learned together, laughed together, and cried together.

I look at each one and remember a time, a note, or a lesson. My eyes fill with tears. Soon these first graders will be second graders and have a different teacher. I will no longer be the one to accept their hugs and smiles.

I think about all the things I would want the next teacher to know: this one needs lots of hugs; this one is quiet, be patient and consistent, soon you will see her shine; this one does not want to try unless he knows he is correct, again, be patient, he will soon trust you to try, to make mistakes, to thrive; this one wants to know that you are close; this one is a true multi-tasker, watch and see; this one is insecure, water the seeds that were planted and watch out.

But I also know that next year is a new year and the next teacher will discover all this and more. 

So what is Phase One? It is me being really quiet. Soaking in every last bit of firstie goodness that I can. And trusting that everyone (the little ones and I) will be ok.

The Final CURRENTLY, May 2016

I know I'm late to this party. I've been late before. Nobody minds if you are late. They accept you as you are.

This linky party is a special one to me. It was one of the first I joined. I made so many friends here. They have taught me so much!!! That is why I am making sure to join. One. Last. Time.

Not much else to say. Thanks Farley for a great party to start all kinds of collaboration and professional growth!