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Tuesday, November 29, 2022

#sol22 November 29 Cabbage, Onions, & a Good Book

 

"Why do you always bring us books, Meme?" he asked with a tone that put books in the same category as a gift of onions or cabbage.  "I don't like books, I don't like A, apple, /a/, and I don't like to read," he said in a huff that made my heart sad, even if I wasn't surprised.  

I grew up in an era when books were pretty much the only escape from real life and the only way to learn new things. These 3rd decade of the 20th Century children just ask Google if they have a question and have infinite avenues that will entertain them.  Yet, I know that reading and writing are still at the epicenter of learning and living, even if it's the 21st Century!

"I think you might like this one" I suggested holding the new book so that his name, along with his sister and brother's name's were in the title.  I did not read the title, but his big brother recognized the family names and appeared a wee bit interested.  The big brother moved away from his Lego-building, holding onto his build in progress.

"This one is me, this is you," the big brother concluded as he read the title and they opened the book and began to explore the pages where they were heroes and heroines.  "This one is where we are hiding!" they said excitedly as they scanned and explored the book the same way they would go after a box of chocolates. 

I hung up my coat, picked up the baby, and returned to find the reluctant reader, his siblings, and his father lost in this new "personalized" book.  I wanted to interject something about the magic or power of books.  I was tempted interject that THIS was why I bring so many books. However, I  acted as I would have if they were suddenly eating onions or cabbage and enjoying it!    

PS This time I used Wonderbly but I am neither endorsing the site or the books. The payment part was  tricky and they kept trying to double charge me until I corrected it manually, but the book is cute.  

PPS Thank you to TWT for continuing to sponsor this site and encouraging me to document the small moments of life. 






Tuesday, November 22, 2022

#sol22 Thankful, Grateful, Concerned, and Hopeful, too

 

Thankful
It's been a while since I blogged but l am thankful for a most special "reader" who nudges me to blog,  the opportunity to share with the next generation of teachers, and a tiny miracle who will be gracing our table (along with her parents, grandparents, siblings and cousins) this year (even if she is not yet eating food).

Grateful

I am grateful that I pulled myself out of my solitude and into the cold weekend where I found a bit of holiday spirit,  I'm pretty sure my Mom was smiling as we sipped clam chowder and I'm pretty sure it was not just luck that I won a 50/50 raffle at the Community Orchestra's Holiday Concert, because I never (usually) win.


Concerned

I must admit I am (and have been) concerned about the many hate crimes, blaming words, and destructive behaviors that attempt to pit one group against another and paralyze our nation.  I must admit I am devastated about the continuing gun violence that shatters lives and families while stealing the peace our forefathers hoped they were working towards. 


Hopeful

Finally, I am hopeful that I will make the time to reflect and write more often.  I am also hopeful that each of you who finds themselves reading this blog post finds some peace and joy during this week of reflection on our many blessings even amidst our many challenges and strife.  I am hopeful you will take the time to count your blessings and open your heart like those Wampanoag Native Americans we celebrate this week.