Category Archives: Giving thanks

One Voice

Posted on July 4, 2023 by Jennie

My final thought today on this Fourth of July is we are one.  No one is alone.  We all work together. History is filled with these moments that make me proud to be an American. This song says it all. … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, music, patriotism, Singing | Tagged , , | 30 Comments

Sam the Eagle Scout

Posted on July 1, 2023 by Jennie

Sam was my preschooler many years ago.  He always had a smile and enjoyed playing with friends.  Sam’s mother was careful about finding the right preschool for her boy.  When she visited the public library, she found The Groton ABC … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Giving thanks, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, self esteem, teaching, wonder | Tagged , , | 59 Comments

Over the Rainbow, Under the Water

Posted on June 22, 2023 by Jennie

To the five survivors of the submarine braving great depths in the ocean to explore the Titanic, today there were rainbows in the water in my pool. Underwater rainbows. You have crossed the underwater Rainbow Bridge. Bless you. Jennie

Posted in Death and dying, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Nature, wonder | Tagged , , , | 29 Comments

Reflections on a Wonderful Year at School

Posted on June 14, 2023 by Jennie

Today was the last day of school for children. There were tears, hugs, resistance, and a multitude of emotions from children and families. It’s hard to say good-bye and thank you, all at the same time. Two families thanked me … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Giving thanks, Inspiration, preschool, School, Teaching young children | Tagged , | 54 Comments

Never Forget…

Posted on May 29, 2023 by Jennie

Memorial Day is a day to honor and remember the brave men and women in our military who have died. It is also a day to thank those who serve. Never forget to thank a soldier or a sailor. Never … Continue reading →

Posted in America, American flag, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, military, patriotism, Teaching young children | Tagged , , | 53 Comments

A Magnificent Photo Each Day

Posted on May 6, 2023 by Jennie

I have followed kevinwanderlust for a long time.  He posts one photo a day from around the world, and every one is magnificent, something that sticks with you.  Here is yesterday’s photo: The Milky Way, Canterbury, New Zealand I hope … Continue reading →

Posted in art, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, The Arts, wonder | Tagged , , | 32 Comments

Amanda Books at the Public Library!

Posted on April 21, 2023 by Jennie

Thursday is my Read-Aloud day at the Groton Public Library.  When I arrived, the head children’s librarian was beside herself. “Jennie!  Jennie!  The Amanda books are here!” And then she showed me all the books.  Wow!  Nine books. Of course … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, children's books, geography, Giving thanks, literacy, reading | Tagged , , | 77 Comments

Pen Pal Valentines

Posted on February 5, 2023 by Jennie

Valentines for our pen pals who live far away in England and Michigan, love and friendship made by hand. Jennie

Posted in art, Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, Writing | Tagged , , | 37 Comments

Elvis, and Martin Luther King

Posted on January 16, 2023 by Jennie

When Martin Luther King died, Elvis Presley was devastated- along with everyone else.  He was scheduled to perform a few days later, and he was troubled.  He stayed up all night and wrote a song, and sang it instead of … Continue reading →

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, music, Peace, Singing | Tagged , , , | 52 Comments

Remembering My Mentor and Hero, Jim Trelease

Posted on January 5, 2023 by Jennie

Jim Trelease visiting my classroom. Jim Trelease, the man who put reading-aloud on the map as #1 for children, has died. I had his million copy bestseller book since my kids were little. When I heard him speak at a … Continue reading →

Posted in Book Review, chapter reading, Early Education, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Jim Trelease, literacy, Quotes, reading aloud | Tagged , , , | 119 Comments