Author Archives: Jennie

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About Jennie

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.

Dolly Parton – R.I.P.

Posted on August 26, 2026 by Jennie

I grew up in West Virginia, and Dolly Parton grew up not far away in Tennessee.  Country music was big for both of us where we grew up.  Dolly’s songs and voice will forever make me smile. But there is … Continue reading →

Posted in books, children's books, Community, Early Education, Giving, Imagination, Inspiration, Library, literacy, picture books, reading | Tagged , , , , , , | 39 Comments

My Summer Books

Posted on August 24, 2026 by Jennie

I delight in discovering new and wonderful picture books every summer.  Many I find at the Eric Carle Museum’s bookstore, as they’re often the one to have the best books.  Some I discovered through a fellow book lover.  We share … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Book Review, children's books, Eric Carle Museum, Library, literacy, museums, picture books, reading, reading aloud, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 51 Comments

Jerry Pinkney – His Art and Fairy Tales

Posted on August 18, 2026 by Jennie

I was fortunate to see the current Jerry Pinkney exhibition at the Eric Carle Museum.  His art is extraordinary both in color and detail. Some years ago Jerry was a presenter at the museum.  I was there!  I got to … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, picture books, reading aloud, The Arts | Tagged , , , , , , | 61 Comments

Reflections

Posted on August 14, 2026 by Jennie

I understand how Monet felt about reflections. They tell a big story. He saw the world above when he painted his water lilies. I see the world above, deep in my pool when the sun has set and allows reflections. … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, Nature, Peace, wonder | Tagged , , | 43 Comments

Visiting the Eric Carle Museum – The Best!

Posted on August 10, 2026 by Jennie

Every visit to the Eric Carle Museum is a new and exciting adventure.  I always discover something wonderful.  Yes, it’s that good. When I arrived I headed to the Art Studio.  I wish every elementary school teacher could visit and … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Book Review, children's books, Eric Carle, Eric Carle Museum, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, museums, picture books | Tagged , , , , | 64 Comments

More Fish – Inside

Posted on August 7, 2026 by Jennie

Our pool boasts over 50 fish, from hanging on the fence to sitting on the ground, and perched atop fence posts.  I’ve posted the fish before.  You may not know that we also have fish on the porch. They’re like … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Family, Inspiration, Nature, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , | 59 Comments

Oh, What a Sky!

Posted on August 3, 2026 by Jennie

The sky went on forever, looking just like the photo, spread across my world. It was ominous. I couldn’t stop looking, and imagining. I saw stories. I saw mystery. I saw wonder. Thank goodness I looked up. Look up and … Continue reading →

Posted in E.B. White, Expressing words and feelings, Imagination, Inspiration, Mother Nature, Nature, Poetry, Quotes, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 71 Comments

Billy Elliot

Posted on August 1, 2026 by Jennie

For my fellow bloggers in London, or close by, I’m excited that my dear friend’s grandson has the part of Billy Elliot.  Big Wow. Over 700 boys tried out, and he was the only American who made it.  He is … Continue reading →

Posted in art, England, Inspiration, music, play performances, Singing, The Arts | Tagged , , | 44 Comments

Milly’s Farewell

Posted on July 27, 2026 by Jennie

This card was passed out at the memorial service. It’s an odd thing to say that a eulogy was inspirational.  Yet for Milly, how could it be anything less?  And, it’s unusual to laugh out loud at the words the … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Community, Death and dying, Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Inspiration, Love, Peace, quilting, The Arts | Tagged , , | 61 Comments

I’m Here!

Posted on July 25, 2026 by Jennie

I was the last to bloom, but I’m here. Can you tell how happy I am? My leaves are outstretched like arms reaching for the sky. Winged Victory! Jennie was the first to see me. She told me flowers are … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, flowers, Inspiration, Mother Nature, Nature | Tagged , , , , | 63 Comments