I recently registered for the RiseUp Summit which is a free online conference for Christian educators in both public and private schools. Click here for details. You can join live from October 22nd-23rd and On-Demand from October 21st-26th. Pass the word if you know someone who might be interested!
It’s fun to add a little whimsy to your garden! As I did in my science classroom, I look for ways to add surprises in unexpected places. Still searching for a turtle, a sundial, and rain gauge. The hummingbirds have brought me such joy this summer, I might just add one of those too! The poem below was in my grandparents’ garden.
My husband and I drove through Wisconsin this summer, and we found the variety of trees differed from the trees native to Atlanta. I especially enjoyed learning about the cottonwood tree. This massive shade tree grows along rivers and lakes. They belong to the poplar family and are among the fastest growing trees in America. They are easily recognized by their wide trunks. The name “cottonwood” comes from the fluffy white material that surrounds the seeds each spring.
When I was chosen to be the science coordinator seven years ago and tasked with creating a science lab, I began with an empty room. Creating an inviting, engaging, learning environment has been such a labor of love.
As I looked around the room one last time before I closed the door and took the first step in my new chapter, I thought of the classic story, Good Night Moon, in which the character says good night to all the items in his bedroom before going to sleep. I laughed at myself, as I said good-night to all my favorite spaces and materials in the lab, and thought of all the young scientists who have shared this room with me. I already miss them!
Wishing all the mothers out there a very happy Mother’s Day! I’m grateful for my miracle daughter and my own mom who could not be a better role model. Looking forward to spending time with both of them this summer. Click here to watch mothers in the animal kingdom.
I wanted to let my blog community know that my mom celebrated her 90th birthday on January 30th. I am so blessed that God chose her to be my mother! I made a video to celebrate with my family over Zoom, and I thought I would post a few of the photos of my beautiful mother here. She was also a teacher. Thank you for letting me share my heart with you.
I fell backwards onto the sidewalk as I greeted children during carpool. The result was a fractured wrist.
As I’ve attempted to rest and ice my wrist, I’ve reflected on the lessons this new challenge offers, a practice I’ve tried to do when life unexpectedly takes a turn. No matter what happens, I’ve learned that there are always blessings to be found. Although this is very minor and really just a nuisance, I am practicing for when more serious life events occur because they will. Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts with you.
I feel grateful that this fall was not more serious. I could have easily hit my head on the sidewalk. I quickly realized the need for two hands. I wonder if I have ever thanked God for my hands and feet. Thankful too that the holidays are approaching and I will have time to rest at home. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18,
I immediately felt more empathy for my mom who has gnarled arthritic hands which make even the simplest tasks difficult. She fell last year and her broken ankle required five pins and a steel plate to repair. She was alone in the hospital for days. She almost never complained, but I can only imagine the pain and the feeling of helplessness she experienced.
One of the upsides during these Covid days has been the innovation I have witnessed. Hasn’t it been astonishing to watch the creative ways people have solved problems? Challenges create opportunities for change, discoveries, and inventions. I have had to become a problem solver. How do you open an envelope with one hand?
I have also tried to simplify which isn’t easy given the holidays are approaching. My daughter and her new husband are driving here from Chicago to spend Christmas with us. They haven’t been here since last December, and I wanted everything to be perfect! I know that isn’t why they are coming, but isn’t it hard to let go of that desire?
So that brings me to the reminder that it is alright to ask for assistance. There will be more hands here now that will be ready to help me cook, wrap, and address cards, as well as complete all the household tasks.
Labs will be simpler this week, but I have some fun and easy ideas that will keep my young scientists learning. There will be time for the explosive labs when we return in January, and I work with a supportive staff who is already asking about the ways they can assist me.
So, as I sat icing my hand, I watched the array of birds at my suet feeder. Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10.
