CURRENTLY--January 2016

Happy New Year from this teacher who has returned from my family's beach holiday rested and more ready for whatever 2016 holds in store!

I hope this post finds you feeling more relaxed as well, and looking forward to seeing the smiling faces of your students on Monday morning!

It's been almost three weeks since I posted here.  Too long.....I know.  The hectic pace of of the last days of school before holiday break, followed by the siren song of the Bonita Beach sand, sun, and surf diverted my focus.  I am back now though, with a promise be more present and focused in my content here this year.

What better way to get this blogging party started than to join Farley's monthly CURRENTLY celebration!  Be sure to check out all of the other thoughtful reflections {HERE}!











I have to admit that holiday re-runs on The Hallmark Channel are my background entertainment as I blog this morning in anticipation of tonight's new movie premieres!  Call me a sentimental fool if you will, but they are pure escapist fare for me when I am at home hibernating during the winter months!  Rosie and I cannot wait for Unleashing Mr. Darcy later this month!  It's a modern-day spin on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice that involves DOGS! Woo hoo!











This Christmas my family was blessed to have all but one of the fourteen Boney cousins present and accounted for on Bonita Beach!  Thanks to the magic of Photoshop though, my son was able to include himself in this great group picture!  Such a happy and blessed crew!












Last summer I had the opportunity to share my passion for wordless picture books with fellow teachers and librarians at the Mazza Museum Summer Institute.  Next July, I will enjoy another opportunity to present a Tanny McGregor-inspired workshop there with my friend Emily from Curious Firsties.   Together we will be "Reading Ninjas" as we share authentic, concrete ways to help children make comprehension connections to a variety of literature.  I can hardly wait!












Waking up to these views over the past two weeks provided me with a much needed respite from what has been a rollercoaster ride of a school year so far.  My plan is to return over some long weekends in the months ahead and/or during my spring break.  Florida is truly my tranquil place to re-charge and reflect.  I am fortunate to be able to get away to the "family compound" for quiet time that is very therapeutic and refreshing.














This bin is just one of MANY that is full of way too much holiday stuff.  I also have MANY like it that are full of school stuff.  It is just past time for me to do the "40 bags in 40 days" challenge and sort, pitch, donate, and re-organize both at home and in Room #2.  Wish me luck.....especially you fellow "pack rats" out there!











Choosing just "one little word" as my goal for 2016 was difficult.  Confidence, change, and bold were contenders.  This word...featured in two of my favorite songs and a Disney movie title... embodies all three I think....







from Disney's Brave





 by Sara Bareilles





As always, I thank you for stopping in to share my stories and songs.  May your new year be full of promise and all good things.  Keep calm and continue to teach your children well.....




8 comments

  1. So envious of your beach vacation but very happy that you had most of your family there. I too had a wonderful and relaxing holiday and am looking forward to greeting a new group of kids on Monday.

    Cheryl
    KinderIrick

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    1. So glad to here that your holiday was restful too, Cheryl! May Monday's smiles from your students get your new week off to a great start!
      ~Jennifer

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  2. Hi! The 40 bags in 40 days challenge sounds great. I am in for sure. I also love the way you've done the CURRENTLY.
    Happy New Year!

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    1. So glad you like my CURRENTLY format, Janine! I just had to find a way to use my new Melonheadz Lucy Doris set! I just love her! May 2016 be full of good things for you!
      ~Jennifer

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  3. Your little tags are precious!!! I definitely need to declutter too!

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    1. Lucy Doris and her brother Franklin are my favorite, Haley! Today I went to school and sorted all of my Holiday books and printables. Feeling pretty proud of myself! Now to attack my two small Christmas trees and get them packed away!
      ~Jennifer

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  4. I love your word! Being brave can be so hard. Best of luck the remainder of the school year!

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    1. I am going to put the words "BE BRAVE" above my desk at school and on a plaque on my wall at home. I figure that together, my students and I will persevere and have courage!
      ~Jennifer

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