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.

Still Getting Cards From Students

Posted on January 1, 2023 by Jennie

As I go through my holiday cards today, my greatest joy is reading, touching, and re-reading the collection of cards from former students: Amanda, age 16, now in California Sophie, age 15, still in town Mac, age 8, now in … Continue reading →

Posted in children's books, E.B. White, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, literacy, reading, Teaching young children | Tagged , | 73 Comments

“Devotion” – The (Personal) Backstory

Posted on December 30, 2022 by Jennie

Current movie, “Devotion” The story of Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner in the movie is true.  There’s much more to the story, which involves me and my family.  Really. It happened like this… 1972.  Hubby is an Ensign in the … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, patriotism | Tagged , , , , | 50 Comments

A Message

Posted on December 28, 2022 by Jennie

Surely there is a message here. This must be a sign. I’m excited! Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Inspiration, wonder | Tagged , , | 43 Comments

Merry Christmas

Posted on December 25, 2022 by Jennie

Merry Christmas! Jennie

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, wonder | Tagged | 50 Comments

The True Story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Posted on December 23, 2022 by Jennie

As the holiday season of 1938 came to Chicago, Bob May wasn’t feeling much comfort or joy. A 34-year-old ad writer for Montgomery Ward, May was exhausted and nearly broke. His wife, Evelyn, was bedridden, on the losing end of … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, picture books, self esteem, wonder | Tagged , , | 67 Comments

My Favorite Christmas Ad – Repost

Posted on December 21, 2022 by Jennie

My favorite Christmas Ad, every year. The Spirit of Christmas That’s what it’s really about. This is the year we need to keep that spirit alive. This is the year we need to find happiness. If we are happy, it … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, joy, Love, wonder | Tagged , , , | 70 Comments

Best Children’s Christmas Books – Annual Post

Posted on December 18, 2022 by Jennie

Christmas books are often more meaningful to read to a child after the holiday, once a child has experienced the joy of Christmas.      Red and Lulu, by Matt Tavares is the story of two cardinals who live in … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, Family, Inspiration, joy, picture books, reading aloud, wonder | Tagged , | 50 Comments

A Glow In The Darkness Is The Best Gift Of All

Posted on December 16, 2022 by Jennie

Thank you, Bruce, for posting one of Craig Wilson’s columns.  He was a weekly writer for USA Today, “The Final Word” – what a Christmas delight.  Yes, it is a reminder of how simple and magical the season can be.

Posted in Uncategorized | 24 Comments

Grandma Moses

Posted on December 14, 2022 by Jennie

THEGUARDIAN.COM Queen of Christmas: the wondrous snowy landscapes that made Grandma Moses as big as Jackson Pollock. As soon as I saw this article, shared by the Bennington Museum in Bennington, VT, I knew I needed to tell her story, … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Imagination, Inspiration, museums, quilting, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , , | 72 Comments

Army Navy

Posted on December 10, 2022 by Jennie

This is a post from last year’s Army/Navy game.  I couldn’t say it better, and it bears repeating.  Today’s game was equally exciting.  I must add that next year’s Army/Navy game will be held at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro.  Yes, … Continue reading →

Posted in America, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, Learning About the World, military | Tagged , , | 43 Comments