I have been teaching preschool for over forty years. This is my passion. I believe that children have a voice, and that is the catalyst to enhance or even change the learning experience. Emergent curriculum opens young minds. It's the little things that happen in the classroom that are most important and exciting. That's what I write about.
I was a live guest on the Kelly Clarkson Show. I am highlighted in the seventh edition of Jim Trelease's million-copy bestselling book, "The Read-Aloud Handbook" because of my reading to children. My class has designed quilts that hang as permanent displays at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia, the Fisher House at the Boston VA Hospital, and the Massachusetts State House in Boston.
Our neighbor kids (age 4 and 6) who love to visit and swim, think eating in the pool is the coolest thing. Only pizza, no spills. All of the adults are out of the pool to eat. They don’t know what they’re missing. 😀 Maybe I’ll play the song for them.
‘She’ (yes, ‘she’) won’t let me leave the house without it. Picture Jen Clampett and his floppy wide brim hat.
I haven’t been very active on WP as you’ve probably noticed. I just seem to concentrate on finding the words for a story or to respond to others’ stories. I know it’s the Parkinson’s and that’s just one of the issues, getting motivated and staying focused. I’m still exercising regular, 3-4 times at the Y for early morning vigorous water walking (6 am, or so), Friday morning boxing class for Parkinson’s, and I walk the dog every evening, 1-2 miles at a decent clip. Exercise is the best medicine to fight P. I feel good. My left foot shakes but as long as it’s in time to the music, then I’m okay. I still read your stories but don’t always comment.
I hope you’re having a relaxing summer and enjoying more time with Steve. I suspect that you’ll be back to school in fall. You’re a special person and the kids need you. You know I think you’re awesome.
Take care, Jennie,
Steve (the Curbside Classroom know it all)
Steve!! I love hearing from the Curbside Classroom who actually DOES know it all. 😀 Thanks so much for your news and update. It sounds like you’re doing fine and keeping the P under control.
I had eyelid surgery (droopy lower lid) after school was out and am finally able to get to the pool and relax. Summers I try to tackle big jobs, and purging the basement is on the list. We’ll see.
The west coast grandkids are coming for a visit mid-August. Still waiting to hear about the east coast grandkids. I really miss the days when they were 4 or 5 or 6.
I have been tempted to sleep in the pool on a raft. On the worst heat days I keep my wet bathing suit on. It’s on now as I’m typing this on the porch. Yes, the basement feels like Alaska!
No, he did not. It was lasagne, easy to eat and not spill, but a bit tricky for him to get it into the pool. Next dinner will be pizza with our neighbors and their kids. We’re stayin’ cool.
“When they visit” is the operative phrase. Sigh! I miss the days when they were 4 or 5 or 6, and they live so far away. Yes, the pool is great, and our neighbor kids love it. That keeps us young and happy. 😀
No, I did not send it yet. The heat wave sucked the life out of me. No AC, and it was too hot to go to the pool until dinner time. What a treat to eat in the pool! My overdue email and updated draft is top of the list today. The heat wave finally broke. 👏
Me, too. These steps are popular in above ground pools. Ours is a traditional in-ground pool. Even though our pool has ladders, these steps are the best.
It is the best! I love my Yeti water bottle; I’m so glad you have the same one. Okay, here’s my Yeti tried-and-true, if you like white wine: At the end of the night, I put my Yeti with the end of my wine and ice in the freezer. The next evening, I have a small frozen wine & ice mixture, which is perfect for pouring the new wine. Brilliant!
Even though I cannot swim, I am jealous of your pool. It must be lovely to sit out the heat there!
Best wishes, Pete.
It is a lovely oasis, whether we’re in the pool or not. Thank you, Pete.
I know the pool is one of your happy places, Aunt Jennie. Enjoy.
😍
I love it! I read in our pool but I haven’t had my dinner in it, yet. Perfect song!
We have big wide stairs going into the pool; perfect for sitting and eating (and reading!) Love the song, too!
❤️😀
You must be a neat eater! Someday I hope to experience a pool/culinary adventure like this…
It is a delight! Our big steps going into the pool are perfect for sitting to eat, so no messes. Best to you, Will.
I love it! Rest assured about my inner child. She has been making faces at her husband’s trail cam in the back yard.
Hooray for your inner child, Liz! 😀
😀
This sounds like a great plan, Jennie
Wonderful! Creative and fun.
Thanks, Ally!
somehow I can’t picture Jennie the preschool teacher eating in a pool and listening to Heat Wave.
Our neighbor kids (age 4 and 6) who love to visit and swim, think eating in the pool is the coolest thing. Only pizza, no spills. All of the adults are out of the pool to eat. They don’t know what they’re missing. 😀 Maybe I’ll play the song for them.
Wow too good have a wonderful time Jennie ❤️
It is! Thank you, Kamal.
Keep it cool, Jennie. This heatwave seems to want to hang on.
Will do, Dan! 😀
That looks wonderful. I have a pool but no bathing suit anymore! You’re inspiring me, Jenny.
There’s nothing more refreshing than dunking in a pool. I’ve been known to go in with my clothes on…go for it, Jacqui!
I love your advice , we have a heatwave … But no pool 💜💜💜
In our ‘before pool’ days, I’d put on a bathing suit, get in a cold shower, and stay in the bathing suit while sitting on the porch. It’s delightful!
That’s an excellent idea Jenny I am going to try it 😁😁😁😁
It really works! Let me know how yo make out.
I will Jennie 💜💜
😍
Perfect solution!!!
Yes!!!
Hi Jennie
Thanks, we do it in the sea right now 😉
Keep cool
The Fab Four of Cley
🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂
You have the perfect spot!
Great idea. Just don’t spill your food.
Haha! The steps are wide, so no spills.
Looks inviting. Big glasses but where’s the big hat (sun protection)?
I had the big hat on earlier when there was sun. 😀
‘She’ (yes, ‘she’) won’t let me leave the house without it. Picture Jen Clampett and his floppy wide brim hat.
I haven’t been very active on WP as you’ve probably noticed. I just seem to concentrate on finding the words for a story or to respond to others’ stories. I know it’s the Parkinson’s and that’s just one of the issues, getting motivated and staying focused. I’m still exercising regular, 3-4 times at the Y for early morning vigorous water walking (6 am, or so), Friday morning boxing class for Parkinson’s, and I walk the dog every evening, 1-2 miles at a decent clip. Exercise is the best medicine to fight P. I feel good. My left foot shakes but as long as it’s in time to the music, then I’m okay. I still read your stories but don’t always comment.
I hope you’re having a relaxing summer and enjoying more time with Steve. I suspect that you’ll be back to school in fall. You’re a special person and the kids need you. You know I think you’re awesome.
Take care, Jennie,
Steve (the Curbside Classroom know it all)
Steve!! I love hearing from the Curbside Classroom who actually DOES know it all. 😀 Thanks so much for your news and update. It sounds like you’re doing fine and keeping the P under control.
I had eyelid surgery (droopy lower lid) after school was out and am finally able to get to the pool and relax. Summers I try to tackle big jobs, and purging the basement is on the list. We’ll see.
The west coast grandkids are coming for a visit mid-August. Still waiting to hear about the east coast grandkids. I really miss the days when they were 4 or 5 or 6.
School will be here way too soon!
Best to you, Steve
Enjoy! 😊
Yes!
The best way to beat the heat, Jennie.
Absolutely!
unless you sleep in the pool that’ll only work for a short while.
I always slept downstairs where it was much cooler. A good nights rest helps keep one sane during these heat waves.
I have been tempted to sleep in the pool on a raft. On the worst heat days I keep my wet bathing suit on. It’s on now as I’m typing this on the porch. Yes, the basement feels like Alaska!
Did hubby join you after he took the vid?!? Stay cool, lady.
No, he did not. It was lasagne, easy to eat and not spill, but a bit tricky for him to get it into the pool. Next dinner will be pizza with our neighbors and their kids. We’re stayin’ cool.
I imagine your pool must be a big hit with your grandkids when they visit. What’s better than that? Food in the pool. Way to go, Jennie!
You haven’t sent me your updated draft of the book yet, have you?
“When they visit” is the operative phrase. Sigh! I miss the days when they were 4 or 5 or 6, and they live so far away. Yes, the pool is great, and our neighbor kids love it. That keeps us young and happy. 😀
No, I did not send it yet. The heat wave sucked the life out of me. No AC, and it was too hot to go to the pool until dinner time. What a treat to eat in the pool! My overdue email and updated draft is top of the list today. The heat wave finally broke. 👏
Beautiful share
You are welcome Jennie.
😍
Looks like a good idea! Stay cool, Jennie.
Thanks, Stevie!
💖💖💖
😍
Wonderful videos, Jennie. LOL, the pool looks inviting, and the company looks delightful. Hugs.
Thanks so much, Teagan! Glad you enjoyed this. Hugs!
that heatwave song was AWESOME to go with your pool shot
🙂
It’s a great song! I’m so glad you liked it, and the cool pool shot. Thank you!
🙂🙂
❤️❤️❤️
Engaging read
What a sensible option during the heat wave! I love your pool steps – such a good idea:).
Yes! It really works, and is a welcome place for dinner in a heat wave.
I’m surprised not to see more pools with such steps.
Me, too. These steps are popular in above ground pools. Ours is a traditional in-ground pool. Even though our pool has ladders, these steps are the best.
I agree!
🙂
Looks divine! And I have the exact same cup and color as you. 🥰
It is the best! I love my Yeti water bottle; I’m so glad you have the same one. Okay, here’s my Yeti tried-and-true, if you like white wine: At the end of the night, I put my Yeti with the end of my wine and ice in the freezer. The next evening, I have a small frozen wine & ice mixture, which is perfect for pouring the new wine. Brilliant!
Oh fab Jennie! Thanks for your tip! Cheers to Yeti! Lol 😍
I’m glad you liked it. Yes, cheers to Yeti!
💜
Looks great! I hope it was a no cook dinner too.
Definitely a no cook dinner night! Lots of fun.
We’ve both been lucky having pools this summer, Jennie. I have really enjoyed it this year.
Yes we have! What a delightful everyday staple our pools are, right?
I also get to see my grandkids more because they come over 3 or 4 days to swim.
That’s wonderful!