NCTE Celebrations

Celebration Saturday has been on my mind during my busy week, I continually tried to remember every little moment. I found myself taking a photo or jotting down notes on my phone. My week started crazy busy but not unlike any other teacher preparing to leave their classroom to attend NCTE. But add on progress reports into the mix, and it felt like a ball of yarn all twisted until I sat down on the plane early Thursday morning.

#CentralOhio strong + Mary Lee and Franki
who had NCTE meetings to attend.

            My first celebration was time to talk with friends and colleagues from all over the United States. Instant conversations started as I rode to the airport with Mandy, and we saw Gretchen and Julie sitting at our gate. I was off and running. Time to talk early in the morning when I received a text from Tara asking do I have some time? The answer is always “Yes!”  Late night talks with the best roommates not just about school, but life. Afternoon conversations with friends who I only see once a year. Such a privilege to have the time to talk.

    Supportive colleagues around every corner at NCTE. As I figured out which sessions I wanted to attend, I always use the index to search out friend’s names.  I always learn something new or this year I felt reinforced as I listened to several of the presentations. And it’s even better when you’re presenting and all your friends are sitting at the first two round tables.  Collaboration was around every corner. Eating meals, sitting next to the beautiful Christmas tree, walking around town and yes even drying my hair in the morning.  Perfect time for friends to share.

Presenting with my NCFL family and sharing an amazing meal as we continue our conversations both personal and professionally. I celebrate that Chris Lehman has joined our WONDER GROUND team as we launch our next initiative for Wonderopolis Educators. Every time I listen to him speak he is always focused on similar areas: family, students and the importance of strong instruction in the classroom.  As I reflect on the overall sessions, these three areas along with the importance of sharing your story will be a part of my take away moments.

    There are so many more stories to share, which was the theme of NCTE 2014. My stories the past several months have been living in my thoughts and typically not reaching the keyboard. I am choosing (OLW) to slow down and reflect on my take away moments. But I am energized and excited as the calendar turns to December on Monday. Thank you for celebrating with me this week.  And thanks to Ruth for being one of my first inspirations in writing about my story.  Here is the roundup link for this week.