It's Monday!

What a fabulous start to the week!  I just finished two incredible books.  The first book seems to be getting a lot of attention and there is good reason, for sure.  Absolutely Almost is such a memorable book and it will stay with me for a very long time.  I am already thinking about the students I can share this book with.  It would be absolutely engaging read aloud.  I would love to hear the conversations and reflections as children listen and read this book.  Linda Graff beautifully tells how kids and adults can feel inadequate and self-doubting and how our relationships can help us to see the world and ourselves differently.  Albie, the main character, is completely endearing.  

I loved how the author of West of the Moon, Margi Preus, craftily wove traditional stories into this story of two sisters trying to find their father in America.  The folk stories intertwined are magical and help the main character  find her way through difficult times, survival and a start to self awareness.

Two very different stories but so happy that I was invited into both books!

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If not for Franki!

What an honor to write about YOU Franki!

Oh, how exciting you make our lives!  Your high speed energy, your ability to get momentum going for almost anything, and your quick thinking enrich my life!

If not for you Franki, I would never have had the beginning I did in Dublin.  A district filled with young energized, innovative teachers - where you took a lead and encouraged so many of us.

If not for you Franki, I would not have had all these of years of learning and growing at the Dublin Literacy Conference.  What a gift you have given to all of us.  From being on the committee with you many, many years ago, to simply attending, the conference never disappoints.  

If not for you Franki and Mary Lee I would never have tried a blog.

If not for you Franki, inviting me to a tech gathering, I would never have tried Twitter and connected with so many incredible teachers.

If not for Franki, I may have never stayed connected to so many of our dear friends.  You have a beautiful and gifted way of bringing people together and helping us to stay connected.


If not for you, I wouldn't have tried running (Go Team Pumpkin!) or remembered the joy of yoga.

There is so much more that I love about you.  Franki, I love that we have discovered that little village in Italy that holds roots for both of us!  Love your family and have enjoyed every minute of us talking about our girls as they have grown over the years.  A conversation with you stays with me and inspires me. Simply thank you for all you do and for all you are to so many. Much love to you Frances!  (Or is it Francis?)