#celebratelu2014 Finding Joy in My Happy Place

It's June and I guess my husband it right: it's a tough month for teachers. This wrapping up and packing up and preparing for next year while making every moment count....it's a busy and stressful time of year. So this celebration, like my writing this week, will be brief while I celebrate and remember this small moment. One of my colleagues walked by yesterday as I was doing what I do every day, sitting with kids, sharing books. I'm sure I was glowing with pride as I listened to this shining star proudly read.  As I glanced up, my colleague said softly, "I love to walk by this room.  It's such a happy place."  The student, oblivious to the visitor, kept on reading, engrossed in the tale of some dog named Maisey.  The colleague offered to snap a photo (it's APPR binder season). As I looked at the photo later, I realized I could not share the magic of a six year old who had discovered the magic of reading without showing her smiling face; however, I could share that my colleague had captured my "happy place." As I glance at this photo, I am celebrating:

• Possibilities for learning even when there are obstacles along the way
• Progress made possible with assessment-guided, differentiated instruction
• Professional reflection (even if I am not fond of paper filled binders)
• Passion for teaching that has not grown old
• Pillows (rescues from an abandoned sofa) that provide a platform for grounded learning
• Phones that capture moments in time
• Pride that I can still get down (and up) to meet my students wherever they are!  

Thanks Ruth for reminding me to stop, celebrate, and remember these wonderful small moments.