Category Archives: Inspiration

John Howell’s Trilogy of Books

Look what arrived today! John Howell’s fabulous trilogy. Hubby has demanded ‘first dibs’. Dear John, Thank you for writing great stories, as books are the result of  stories that need to be told – because your heart and mind told … Continue reading

Posted in Book Review, books, Giving thanks, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, reading, storytelling, Writing | Tagged , , , | 145 Comments

11 Years – Wow

I never realized back then, 11 years ago, that my fellow bloggers would become my community – true friends. I am forever thankful for all of you.  You are my family. Happy Anniversary with WordPress.com! You registered on WordPress.com 11 … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Giving thanks, Inspiration, Kindness | Tagged , | 86 Comments

Jane Yolen – Happy Birthday and The New Book

Jane Yolen is one of the most esteemed authors of children’s books.  Her dinosaur books are extremely popular and familiar to many. She turned 86 this week, and I was invited to her birthday party! In order to tell you … Continue reading

Posted in Author interview, Book Review, children's books, Eric Carle Museum, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, museums, picture books, reading aloud, storytelling | Tagged , , , , , | 67 Comments

The Poet’s Dog – Reading it Again

When The Poet’s Dog was hot off the press nearly ten years ago. I was eager to read the book.  I loved Patricia MacLachlan Sarah, Plain and Tall, yet I never expected to be so moved by this book.  I … Continue reading

Posted in Book Review, chapter reading, children's books, Dogs, Heart, Inspiration, joy, Kindness, literacy, Particia MacLachlan, reading aloud, wonder | Tagged , , , | 68 Comments

Robots!

Children love robots.  They’re a great introduction to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) learning, and robots are very cool.  I invited our local Groton-Dunstable High School Robotics Club – The Robotomies – to visit the Aqua Roomers with their robots.  … Continue reading

Posted in Early Education, Giving thanks, Imagination, Inspiration, literacy, robots, School, Teaching young children, wonder | Tagged , , , , , | 80 Comments

Gloria and Zeb to the Rescue

Gloria has been a bit lonely this year.  The children love her, yet she spends much of her days sitting on the couch.  I see her smiling at the children.  I wonder how her heart feels. We’re learning about Africa.  … Continue reading

Posted in behavior, geography, Gloria, Inspiration, Kindness, Love, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , , , | 107 Comments

Remembering the Little Things

The little things are the big things in life although we often don’t see it at the moment. You never know when the things you do will be meaningful or important to others. Goodness always carries the right message. My … Continue reading

Posted in behavior, Expressing words and feelings, Giving, Giving thanks, Heart, Inspiration, Kindness, Student alumni | Tagged , | 64 Comments

Family Photo Collages

Our first parent event at school is Back-To-School Night.  We have a meet-and-greet, parents connect with each other and with teachers, and we talk about our philosophy and curriculum. Then, parents make a family photo collage for their child.  It … Continue reading

Posted in behavior, children's books, Early Education, Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, joy, Love, picture books, preschool, Teaching young children | Tagged , , , | 69 Comments

Happy New Year, Gloria!

Hubby:  “Jennie, did Gloria have Christmas with an Aqua Roomer?” Me:  “No, she did not.” Long pause… Hubby:  “And you didn’t bring her home to have Christmas with us?” He was right.  I felt terrible.  Gloria was alone at school. … Continue reading

Posted in Gloria, Inspiration, joy, Kindness, Love, reading aloud | Tagged , | 65 Comments

The Best Christmas Ad – My Favorite

I will share this Christmas ad every year, because… it’s that good. Christmas is about family and friends. It’s a time to smile and remember. Yes, remember. Because in the end, it’s our memories that stick with us. That’s what … Continue reading

Posted in Expressing words and feelings, Family, Inspiration, joy, Love, music, wonder | Tagged , , | 74 Comments