Monthly Archives: July 2025

MacDowell – An Artist’s Dream

Posted on July 30, 2025 by Jennie

MacDowell For all the artists out there; writers, painters, musicians, sculptures, film makers and more – there is an artist retreat open for you.  Really! It all began in 1907, founded by composer Edward MacDowell and his wife, pianist Marian … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Inspiration, literacy, wonder, Writing | Tagged , , , | 88 Comments

Cloud Watching – Messages

Posted on July 24, 2025 by Jennie

This cloud appeared late afternoon. It was one bright streak coming out of a gloomy gray cloud. What does that say? Nature always gives us messages in their art, telling us to look and to think. So I looked, and … Continue reading →

Posted in E.B. White, Imagination, Inspiration, joy, Mother Nature, Nature, wonder | Tagged , , , , | 72 Comments

Gloria in the Heat Wave

Posted on July 20, 2025 by Jennie

Our neighbors came over for a swim after dinner.  Things had started to cool down and the sun was behind the trees.  Their children love us, and of course follow me everywhere.  6 and 4 year olds do that (thank … Continue reading →

Posted in behavior, Diversity, Gloria, Imagination, Inspiration, Love, young children | Tagged , , | 91 Comments

Heat Wave

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Jennie

What do you do in a heat wave? Eat dinner in the pool, of course. And sing and dance to “Heat Wave.”   Stay cool.  Listen to your inner child.  Always! Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, Love, Mother Nature, music, Nature, Singing | Tagged , , , , | 80 Comments

Making History Come Alive For Children – Part 3

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Jennie

History is an abstract concept for children, so if I can link something tangible – like me – to history, perhaps they can have an understanding. At the end of the school year we read non-fiction chapter books.  Little House on … Continue reading →

Posted in books, chapter reading, Early Education, Family, Gloria, history, Inspiration, literacy, preschool, reading aloud, reading aloud, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , , , | 46 Comments

I’ve Lost Hubby

Posted on July 11, 2025 by Jennie

I’ve lost hubby to Dan and Willow’s new book, Poetic Justice. Isn’t that wonderful? Jennie

Posted in Book Review, books, Giving thanks, literacy, reading | Tagged , , , | 77 Comments

Making History Come Alive For Children – Part 2

Posted on July 7, 2025 by Jennie

As I read one of the classic children’s books, The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton, it turned out to be an unexpected history lesson.  This wonderful book begins with a charming little house on a hill, living through days … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Early Education, history, Inspiration, literacy, picture books, preschool, reading aloud, School, storytelling, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 63 Comments

4th of July

Posted on July 4, 2025 by Jennie

This is a repost. The 4th of July – America’s declaration of independence.  I teach children about the American flag, and patriotism.  It’s important.  Best of all, children often lead the way.  Their interests are the springboard for the best … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Inspiration, military, music, patriotism, School, Singing, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , | 43 Comments