26.5 - Completed

Check.

Today, I finished the first semester of my 26th year.  What a semester!

Along with my normal schedule, I also included trips to visit my sister who has now been in the hospital for 13+ weeks.    From start through today, she is a miracle in the making.

I have enjoyed working with my six classes and getting to know them as the year progressed.  Two highlights?  The two who worked for the 100% and nearly accomplished their goals.  In my eyes, they succeeded.  Absolutely!  Good kids.  They will each go far.  Very.  A sophomore and a senior.  A female and a male.  A Hispanic and an African-American.  Contrasts.  Each the same.  Striving for more.  Just as I am.

This year, we were allowed to create our own units...and they are a work in progress.  Next year, they will be even better.  Guaranteed.  :)  Already, as I sit here, my mind begins planning for 2018...for two more new units, both based on classic texts:  To Kill a Mockingbird and The Crucible.  I most look forward to the engagement that each text will encourage.  Neither have I taught in several years, so, yes, the texts are in my bag, and part of the reading over this Christmas Break, will be these two texts.

My greatest struggle in the literacy classroom?  Covering it all!  Literary analysis, language skills, vocabulary, writing, projects...and...I really do try, though! We covered it all and more...each student blogs and are working on a novella...of My Story, a focus each chooses relating why each is who each is. For each of my five English classes, I am writing beside them.  My novella...may just be a novel!  Love it!

Outside the high school classroom, I taught a college class, further guiding future English teachers to more learn who they are, preparing for the ever-changing curriculum to which each seem devoted.  Together, we presented at the Arkansas Reading Association's Literacy Conference.  Ever since one of my grad professors asked me to present with her at a state conference, I, too, have followed in her footsteps, encouraging...okay, forcing!...my undergraduate students to present, also.  What a sweet detail to add to their resumes.  I just have to think...yes...this will place their resumes a step up from the competition.  I hope so!

Now...before I begin re-reading those classics, I do feel compelled to read a Christmas novel...or two...or five!  Currently, I am reading The Afterlife of Holly Chase, a chosen novel for The Young Adult Book Club within Good Reads.  So far, I am enjoying it...:)

Merry Christmas...and happy break...and enjoy reading!

Rooted in Literacy

This past month (time flies...faster and faster!), I attend the 45th Annual Literacy Conference and had the best of times.  Yes!  Absolutely!

This was my second year to serve on the Conference Committee...what a rewarding experience...that took many hours to accomplish!  BUT...well worth it!

Some highlights:

• On Thursday, I presented with my two students from my Lyon College methods class.  They/we worked on a project for the semester and presented their projects to a group of about 25.  Fun!  Also, this will look amazing on their resumes.  Yay!   
• Also, on Thursday, the authors who participated in the ARA Book Club met with some of the participants.  I am just such a nerd, but I totally loved this!  Danny Brassell, Monique Wild, Amanda Mayeaux, Jonathan Friesen...sweet!
• On Thursday evening during dinner, authors Louis Sachar and Jane Feber sat at our table.  Yes,  I asked about the next book...but made no progress as this is top secret info!  
• On Friday, I hosted a two-hour institute on blogging, a tool I enjoy and encourage my students to utilize.  Although the attendance was lower (as were all the sessions), those there seemed to enjoy and take home some ideas they might implement with their own students.  Yay!
• The time spent with like-minded peers was priceless and always needed. 

Already, I am looking forward to next year!  Join us!

Telling My Story...one chapter at a time...

Several years ago, a group of us across the states read and discussed Penny Kittle's book Write Beside Them...and I was changed.  For the better.  Now, as I assign a paper, a poem, a novella (!), I complete that assignment right along with my students, sometimes finding changes that must be made, sometimes making additions to improve the thinking process.

This year, my students and I are writing a story...My Story...a story about why we are who we are because of...a family member, a hobby, a choice made...or not.  Just short chapters, totaling a novella.  Short chapters, using James Patterson's chapter lengths as a model, for this project needs to be obtainable.  Therefore, we write a chapter at a time, reviewing and editing, deleting, changing, until one day next April, we publish.

For each class, I have am writing a different version of My Story.  When all these pages are totaled, mine may be a novel!

• My Daughter and Two Sisters:  Their Stories
• Family Members
• Hobbies
• Education

This past week, we drafted two chapters, and I shared with them the messiness of drafting!   Some of the chapters, I drafted, sitting here at home in my chair; others I drafted in front of them, with all my thoughts displayed on the big screen via the document camera and LCD projector.

Located in their three-binders for my class, this project is ever with them.  One, that should we have snow this year (yes!), we may continue to add to as the snowflakes fall and as we fulfill a waiver commitment granted by our state department to engage with students digitally on such days that, due to inclement weather, we have to dismiss school.  Win win!

More about this...as I develop this project more...:)

My Favorite Trend: Book Clubs

Last evening, I met with two book clubs...yes, two in one day!

Our local White River Reading Council met to discuss our adult read The Fall of Marigolds (this is also our BHS Reads Faculty Book Club book for the month).  The purpose of this group is to spread the love of literacy within our community.  As I looked around, I noted only teachers.  As I sat, I listened to the discussion about involving more community.  Hummm...on this I need to work!

Later, for the Arkansas Reading Association, I helped host our fourth author/book this year...Danny Brassell's The Reading Makeover.  Using Facebook Video, a new format for us, participants engaged with the author for an hour, discussing his love for reading, his passion for poetry, and his joy in spreading the love of literacy.

For both groups, I wish more, I want more, I see more.  How does one spread the love of literacy? The answer:  One has to be in love with literacy.  This I do not observe from those whose supposed passions are for books and more books.

Why not?

1. Time.  Isn't life just too crazy busy?  After a full day, after checking in to all social media sites, after vegging for just a few minutes/hours, what time remains for books?  The brain just needs a break, right?  For me, this answer exudes too much, too many excuses for not engaging with the text of a novel.  
2. Money.  Books cost.  That is the dollars and cents of this argument, especially the latest and most popular.  
3. Talk-time.  Some teachers treat books talks as a passing trend.  Myself included?  As I think back on the previous five weeks of school (yes, five already!), the number I have talked is dismal, all hidden by the facade of "we have so much to cover today."
4. Hummmm...must stop this list, for I simply see a list of excuses beginning to pile up...larger and higher.

One take-away from last night's book club...read more poetry.  While this may sound as if I am digressing, I hope to connect a love of words to topics and connect to books...and a true passion of mine...yes, literacy!

Today, I will find time to read!

What are you reading good?

________________________

In hopes of building our community of readers, I invite YOU to join either or both of the above book clubs!  Please join us!

• White River Reading Council Book Club
• Arkansas Reading Association Book Club

Write Wrong v. Write Right

Originally posted at Secondary English Methods.
_______________________________________

From my student intern (and she is not the first) who questioned why seniors cannot...or do not...write better than they do.  To this observation, I have several responses.

The Argument

1. We teach the "regular" students, meaning that, because of advanced classes, more of the "better writers" may not be in our classes.
2. English teachers are not writers, meaning that we do not practice what we preach; therefore, teachers themselves do not grow as writers and prefer to not model this in front of their students.
3. Teachers continue to teach as they always have, resulting in their students learning (or not) what they have always taught.
4. Teachers do not assign enough writing, and, as the saying goes, "practice does make perfect"...or, at least, more perfect...or not perfect, in this case, as students then do not write much, if any.

Now...take a few seconds, and re-read 1-4.  With whom do lack of writing skills lie?

Your answer?

The answer:  teachers.

Agree?  Disagree?

Pause for a moment and consider...would you write much more for this class than what I have assigned?  Are you writing much now?  Have you grown as a writer because of your college classes?

Now, for the other side of the argument = 

Yes, The Counter-Argument

1. Too many students are happy with a 59.45%.  They truly do not care to learn enough to master any skill being taught.
2. Some students just truly do not like to write.  Yes.  Those beings are really out there.  (Here's where you reply, "Sure glad I am not such a student!")

The Rebuttal

1. Do students truly dislike writing...or have they just not been taught The How?
2. Do these students dislike writing...or have they just not written enough?  Please see #2-4 in The Argument Section.
3. Are we beginning to go in circles?  Not accomplishing much, are we?
4. Accomplishment then becomes the answer.  See below!

The Gillmore Answer

1. Teach the kids to write.  Sentences.  Chunks.  Paragraphs.  Essays.  Just have them write!
2. Find a method that speaks to you, that drives your writing, that helps your students master The Unknown...aka The Land of Writing.
3. This happened for me when I attended my first Step UP to Writing workshop.
4. This continued when I learned about Jane Schaffer's Model.
5. This continued as I read...and read...
6. Are you reading?
7. Interesting, isn't it?  Good writers are good readers.  OR are good readers just good writers?  AND great writers are tremendous readers.  OR are write-beside-them writers absolutely the most ferocious readers? Are we going in circles again...OR are we witnessing a pattern that is true?

The Model

When all is said and done, YOU are the model...every day...from bell to bell.  Your writing skills, with a doubt, directly impact your students.  Every day.  Therefore, be a writer; assign writing; write with your students.  Just write right.

Good luck!

Two Weeks Down...

My 27th year is off to a grand beginning.  Shall I share?

• New Curriculum...in an old sort of way.  For the first time in several years, we have been the liberty to pick and choose and create units and lessons geared towards our students.  I have so enjoyed teaching/leading/discussing Beowulf...gearing up for a discussion about how trends and daily concerns transcend time.  
• Student Intern:  This semester Ms. Jordan will learn, grow, teach...maybe even make a mistake or two...as her decision to teach solidifies within her.  I am a bit mixed, as I always am, about handing over classes to her, for I do enjoy teaching, yet I know someone needs to pay back for those who made these very decisions for me...and, well, having a bit of time to plan and prepare more, that is always fun, as I do so enjoy making and creating lessons!  Welcome, Jordan!
• Methods Class:  Three years have passed since I last taught this class for Lyon College, which means English teacher graduates for our local schools!  A perk of this class is personal, as I am ever encouraged to research and learn and evaluate current literacy trends.  More learning in store for me!
• Awesome Classes:  Again, I am appreciating the dynamics of each of my classes.  This is always interesting to witness each year.  The mix of personalities, backgrounds, interests...all adding up to every class always being unique...while the same, for kids are kids.  Right?
• Clubs:  Student leaders have already been in to question and plan for this upcoming year.  I like that, for, one, this keeps me on my toes!  Two, watching these leaders further grow is just a perk.  They truly are our future;  they make me ever proud.  Also, I am again going to host a student book club and am excited about Scholastic's Teen Book Club options.  Very excited, as I have already begun filling out my own book order!

What are some highlights of your year thus far?  Good luck!

And We Are Off!

Beginning Day 9 this morning of Year 27! Good start already!

Just a couple of quick highlights:

• I am enjoying working with the curriculum our department is choosing for our students.  Eng 12...Beowulf.  Eng 10...Antigone.  Have I said...I love creating lessons?!  I do...in a thematic sort of way.
• Great combinations of students.  This is always interesting to watch as the dynamics of classes begin to distinguish themselves.  Interesting.

More later...really!

Year 27 Intentions: Happy New School Year!

Year 27 begins in less than 48 hours!  Never has a year started that I have not been ready.  Just part of that calling rising up within me, I suppose.

Below...Welcome to Cafe 16!  As I wrote on an earlier blog post, I added a bit more orange/coral to my room, which I really like.

CAFE = Collaborating, Analyzing, Facilitating, Elaborating

I posted these pics on a Facebook secondary English teacher group and was validated for my room design.  Our human natures are just weird, deceptive, and often in need of a pat on the human nature head.  I have received 170+ likes and some complimentary comments...and Open House was fun; loved seeing the newbie faces light up, with one student saying, "And this room will be like this all year?"  Yes.  All year!

Yet.

Those two negative comments.

Then, I read a quote on Facebook (which I cannot find at the moment!) about how many seconds are in a week (604,800),  yet a 30 second negative comment can dominate those other 604,770 seconds.

True.

Which leads me to my Intentions (more attainable than resolutions) for 2017-2018 as I prepare to begin my 27th first day of teaching...

Wait!  Shall we do a bit more math:  13 head start/elementary/high school + 4 college + 27 teacher = 44 first days of school for me!  I like that number!

2017-2018 Intentions:

1. Water off a duck's back.  While I am still learning, I am the veteran.  I have achieved that status.  I know my students.  I know what they appreciate.  I know what they need to know to be "College and Career Ready."  I am the best person in the room to help achieve that this year. Therefore, whatever comes along, whatever is said to me or about me, just let it roll off, for I am the professional in the room.  (That must be a bit what a recovering alcoholic must feel when she repeats the AAA motto:  I am a teacher.  I will always be a teacher.)  Yes!  (First step:  buy a ream of paper to print Day 1 handout for seniors...as we are out...already.  Reminder to self:  water off a duck's back!) NOTE:  A district goal is to go paperless.  Therefore, the "snow syndrome" kicked in...as in at the first hint of snow, the egg, bread, and milk shelves empty in the grocery store.  Goodness!  Water off a duck's back!  (Another side note:  One year, I gave every student a yellow duck, which they named and used as a character in various assignments that year.  Still have mine...except she is teal blue.  Just had a thought:  She shall be my mascot this year!)  
2. Laugh.  Can't life in a school building be stressful!?  Our new superintendent's motto is "Kids First."  Love it.  (Some job descriptions may need to be rewritten.  There.  Did I just say that?)  Seriously, though, as I told The Husband just this week, most of the people in my building are there because they truly want to work with kids.  Blessed, I am.  Therefore, the joy of the job needs to exude from me!  
3. Be crafty...as in make more cute bulletin boards and continue Room Design 101.  Seriously (again), I do enjoy making and creating...those bulletin boats are the only elementary characteristic I embody, so I should have fun with it!  (For those who thought crafty might mean sneaky...well...shhhh...:)
4. Read.  We have new curriculum (again...not sure what number this makes in my 13 years there)...well, not quite new as this is some of the curriculum I used to teach; therefore, I am very...yes, very!...excited to teach some of the texts which I truly think students need exposure.  Beowulf...King Arthur...Canterbury Tales..I know...fun!  These kids of mine are going to read more...just more!  AND they need to read for fun; therefore, I, again, will be buying books they want to read and committing to read books with them.  (Sleep...do I really need sleep?!)
5. Read.  This year, I want to activate...and keep activated...our BHS Reads...the faculty AND the student book club.  I love books clubs, so much so that I hardly have time to read because I have so many books to read!  Where to begin!  Therefore, I am nearly always reading multiple books, a skill I once said I could not do.  Yes, I can.  Just like multi-tasking.  
6. Teach.  When my students leave me in May, they will be better writers, readers, and thinkers.  No explanation needed for this one.

What are your intentions for 2017-2018?  Whether it is just to simply survive day to day (you will) or to accomplish the unaccomplishable (no, that is not officially a Webster word...but it should be)...you will!  

Good luck...and Happy New School Year!

Orange You Glad...?

This has been a busy week of readying my room for Open House, which is scheduled for next Tuesday.  Already! Wow.

I spent much of July traveling and attending meetings and returned from this journey rejuvenated and validated.  Then.  The reality of how far behind I was/am sank in, resulting in my beginning to plot and plan, deciding that orange/coral needed to be a part of my life this year.

Since a significant number of hours are spent in my classroom, I have always enjoyed making this space a place I can enjoy.  During my first years of teaching, I spent hours making bulletin boards, choosing a theme and transforming my room.  Then, several years ago, I was afforded a room makeover, choosing this time a cafe theme, one I have maintained until last year when I began adding some beachy items.  This year's additions are the colors of orange and coral.

To the right is my third set of these letters.  These were an easy switch and an easy place to add to my changing color scheme.  I purchased four 11 x 14 canvases and  painted them...then, dry-brushed some additional colors onto them.  The letters are some of my favorite scrapbooking papers, all of which are decoupaged onto the canvas.  My original layout was for the E and A to be switched...which, of course, resulted in READ being misspelled!   Actually had it placed on the table as RAED...also, had a horrible headache last evening; thus, the lesson is...proofread before decoupaging!  I am fairly certain that everyone will just think I meant for the layout be as is in the pic!  Only you now know the truth!

To give the pillows to the right a face-lift, I purchased a throw and sewed new pillow covers.  I saved some money...but...this material made quite the mess as it shed everywhere as I cut and sewed the sides together.  But...well worth the trouble, as you will see in a picture below.

I have several "comfy" chairs and benches on which I keep pillows, mainly, for the purpose of giving the students a surface for a makeshift desktop.  They seem to enjoy them very much!  I really like how these turned out!

I painted this "Everyone Has a Story" to go with an ongoing project that I want to begin with my students on the first day of school.  I used this theme/idea several years ago (still have that painting...but it is too large for the area I now wanted the canvas, so just had to paint another one!).  This idea came back this summer after I attended a session at the ILA conference on infographics.  On the first day, my students will receive two pieces of paper folded in book format and will be asked to create a table of contents for their lives and to write the dedication page.  Throughout the year, in their writers' notebooks, they will draft the chapters of their lives, as I will also, as I write/create the assignments along with my students.  We will then publish the "books"...that I will need to think through a bit more!

I look forward to their stories, to learning about them and their families, to teaching them the features of a narrative.  I have a book or two I might begin, one with English 10 and another with English 12.  Hummmm...more about that as this project continues to develop.  Sounds fun, doesn't it?

See the pillows again?  Love them!

I added these two lamps to my collection  (have I mentioned that in the entire time I have decorated my room this way, I have only received two negative comments, both people mentioned lighting.  During the day, we only use the lamps...kids love it!  So do parents, other teachers, visitors.  I will leave it to you to deduce who does not appreciate them as much as everyone else does!)  Because these lamps were short (which means they were in my budget!), I asked The Man to build these pedestals for them. Then, yes, I decided to add some of the orange to them!  I am very much in like with them!  (Need to purchase another power strip as the cords will not reach the outlet.)

See those yellow candles on the wall in the photo...yes, I am purchasing new ones to add just two more drops of color!

I am feeling much better about my room being ready for Open House...and when all is finished, I will post a "final product" photo!

"Orange" you glad you stopped by and glanced into my classroom?  I am glad you did, also!  Stop back anytime!

Happy birthday, Harry!

If I could have adopted Harry Potter while I was reading the series...or since...I would have.  He just needed a good momma!

Wish I had time now to dive back into this series, but I just have so many books to read! (Sorry, Harry!)

In the meantime...Happy Birthday, Harry!

Tammy's Travels...Part 2

This has been the best summer of professional development!  I wish you could have traveled with me!  REALY wish you could have traveled with me!

1. National Board Academy...need to review my notes for our plans for Arkansas, as we have an online meeting tomorrow evening...making those plans happen!  This could be such a powerful group in our state...in many areas.
2. ILA Conference...am already looking forward to this meeting next year.  When my friend Julie brought me on board the Arkansas Reading Association, and ever since, she has consistently used the word network.  I am seeing that word come to pass.  Meeting and greeting and learning...again, need to review my notes...taking much of what I learned into my classroom...including that energy from this conference.  A very good thing!
3. Midsouth Google Summit...I learned more about Google (especially Google Sites...which I like) and I presented using Blogs as a tool to write WITH our students.  We concluded the 1 1/2 session by agreeing we need a full day next year to dive into this tool!  (Traveled to Trumann for this summit...on my way home on the second day, I received a text that my daughter had been in a wreck...she is fine!  Bless that girl!)
4. Council Leadership Institute...then off to Searcy to work with my Arkansas Reading Association friends/board members in preparation for CLI.  These ladies inspire me.  They work so hard and are so committed to being a part of this organization.  Then, on days 2-3, another 40 ladies joined us.  Much was accomplished as the county reading councils planned for 2017-2018.  Yay!
5. Laying the Foundation/Literacy, a part of the National Institute for Math and Science...four days of meeting with literacy teachers from our district.  Much...if not most...of this content I use already...or at least had heard of...but...BUT...reminders are powerful.  Everyday I committed to use something this year.

The total of these five?  If I include one day of church in there, these meetings added up to 19 days straight of meetings.  Back to back.  No overlap.  Amazing!

The power of these five?  I am taking them into a new/different curriculum this fall into my classroom.  Yes, again, we are switching curriculum.  Honestly?  I am not sure what number this one is (I do know this will be the third for one teacher is who beginning his fourth year).  While we have met several times and worked on the UbD docs in preparation, I have been a bit resistant (as we had a new superintendent joining us and not knowing what changes he might ask), BUT no noted changes, so I am feeling a bit more excited, for we were given many liberties as we plan for this fall:  to choose from three curriculums, which results in much liberty!).

As I begin my 27th year of teaching and as committed as I am to education, I appreciate anyone who respects what I bring into the classroom.  I am a veteran teacher.  There.  I typed it.  Yes, I am.  :)

The timing of the above five...and this "new" curriculum...well...just seems timely!  I do so love designing lessons.  Love it! (Grading it...not so much!)

So....so...off of here:  Time to finalize my classroom...then to dive into the above five...no, the above six...the blending of all I have learned this summer...with a different curriculum...and my 26 years of experience.  Go, me!

Happy New School Year!

Tammy's Travels

Hello from Orlando, Florida, where I am attending the ILA Conference with several friends/peers from the Arkansas Reading Association...after having just returned from a National Board Academy in Las Vegas.  Fun!  Excited!

This a first time to attend both of these conferences so much learning is occurring!

At the NBAcademy, we networked with representatives from 34 other states and developed a needed plan for state of Arkansas affiliate.  I am looking forward to progress within this organization.

Now, at ILA, we are here, also, to network for our upcoming conferences and book club and to brush up on my nerd skills (not much help needed in that area!) as I am excited about the line-up of authors here at conference:  Carol Jago, Ralph Fletcher, Kylene Beers, Robert Probst...and!  Am very much looking forward to the next four days!

Then, when I return to my home state of Arkansas, I will attend a two-day Google training, three days of Council Leadership Institute for leaders across our state in our reading affiliates, and four days of in-service for school...all back-to-back (with just one day off)...wow!  Yes, now in that back-to-school mode!

More about all this in the next few days!

Year 26 Reflections

Such a blessing to acknowledge this number of years in education.  As Year 26 comes to a closure and before I begin thinking too much about Year 26 (already planning!), here are some thoughts:

1. I have blogged little this year for a couple of reasons:  1) we were still immersed in a curriculum of which we had little choosing, which would have resulted in too much negativity on my part, and 2) I was busy!  I enjoy blogging, though, and, again, am committing to adding my input here.
2. I had the best of classes this year.  I still work them hard.  Maybe too hard?  I begin to think so, until this year I received the highest of compliments before school was even dismissed when several entered the door, after having tested for two days, saying, "Mrs. Gillmore, we aced that test.  You had us ready." (We'll see...sure hope so!)  Another added, "I was going to take Comp I and II my senior year; now I think I need to take your class so I will be ready to write for college."  Okay.  Thank you.  Good kids.
3. For the first time, I taught Teacher Cadets, still a fairly new class and move in our state to encourage students to be come teachers, for we have such a shortage of teachers in Arkansas.  The TC's seemed to enjoy the class (received college credit for the second semester), which involved much application...and no tests or extended papers.  Good news!  All ended the year more affirmed than ever that teaching is their correct career choice.
4. New curriculum coming in 2017-2018!  During the last week of school, our curriculum coordinator met with department and brought the winds of change and new beginnings, after which we met and began the process of selecting essential standards.  We have committed to meet in a week and build the units.  Yes.
5. At semester this year, my daughter switched English 12 classes and became my student.  This was a good move for us.  Making more precious memories.
6. I baked at least 75 boxes of brownies this year.  Don't think that is exaggerated by one box.  These kids will work for food!  "We want some of your brownies."  They would work, and I would reward.  Recipe:  purchase two boxes of any brand of brownies from your local grocery story.  Pour ingredients into mixing bowl.  Stir.  Pour into a greased 9 x 13 pan.  Bake for 31 minutes.  Yum!  Easy!  Cheap!
7. This year I taught three sections of English 12, two of English 10, and one Teacher Cadet class.  I enjoy all levels.  The hours fly by.  Then the weeks...months...until I sit here on my first Monday morning off from Year 26 typing this...reflecting.

What is a highlight from your year?

Now for a few weeks of "down time"...then the fun begins again.  Okay...now for a busy summer...more about in the next post!

Summer Begins!

Year 26 is in the books!  Wow!  Now, summer begins!  A summer of reading begins!

May I share my reading plans?

• ARA Book Club:  New!  In this one, we meet and read books with authors...LIVE!...in a private Facebook group page.  This summer, we are reading Jewell Parker Rhodes Towers Falling.
• BHS Reads:  After some discussion, we have settled on our first read:  A Court of Thorns and Roses, the first of a trilogy, each of which contains a retelling of some fairy tale.  Those in the club are discussing summer reads...not sure if we will finish the trilogy or choose other titles.  
• Paper Chase Book Club:  June's book is Death Comes to Pemberly.  Then in July I host book club with the novel Lowcountry Boil, the first in a series.  I do so enjoy meeting with this group of ladies and chatting about books.
• Book Love Book Club:  Penny Kittle is hosting an online book club, during which four books will be read.  So far, 400+ from across the land have signed up.  Cool!
• Online Bible Cafe Book Club:  Each month, this group reads a fiction and a nonfiction book.  I have purchased the three fiction:  Sarah Price's First Impressions, Lauraine Snelling's Someday Home, and Jane Kirkpatrick's This Road We Traveled.
• NCTE Reads Book Club:  For the first time, NCTE is hosting a summer read during the month of June of Teaching Reading with YA Literature by Jennifer Buehler.
• Talks with Teachers:  Each summer, this site host three books (fiction, nonfiction, and a book for teachers).  The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead will be this summer's fiction read.  

Have to stop!  No more!  Well...we'll see!

Now, for the total...and how many do I own and still need to purchase?

• 15 total...with more to be added.  Hummm...can I do this?
• 11 purchased
• 4 to buy (see last two bullets)

With all this in mind, I need to complete my current read of When the Morning Glory Blooms for the Online Bible Cafe Book Club's May read.  

Just writing this excites me...for I dearly love books...and has given me an idea...or two...for our faculty book club.  The trend seems to be to host book clubs using a group on Facebook; five of the above seven use this format (mine other two meet face-to-face...and that is a beautiful thing), but time often is our enemy with hectic schedules and such.  BHS Reads already has a Facebook group page....hummmm...:)

What are you reading this summer?  Diving into a To Be Read pile (mine just grew!)?  Happy summer...and happy reading!

Top Ten Gillmore Extracurricular Clubs

Below is one of the weekly blog assignments my students were assigned...that I wrote with them.

_____________________________________________

Type a three sentence introduction. (Startling Statement)

Queen of extracurricular; that is I, who I have always been.  High School.  College.  Then back to high school.  These clubs are part of the reason that my vocation is also my avocation.  This I wish for everyone.

In no particular order are ten of the clubs in which I have participated while teaching at Batesville High:

1. BHS Reads:  BHS Reads is a book club I created several year ago for teachers.  We have read everything from fiction to nonfiction...adult to young adult.  Currently, we are choosing our three summer reads; the first of which will be A Court of Thorns and Roses.
2. Paper Chase Book Club:  A few years ago, I joined our local book store's book club and have so enjoyed getting to know these ladies.  For June, we are reading PD James' Death Comes to Pemberly.
3. ARA Book Club:  This book club is brand new!  Very excited to see where this endeavor will take us.  In this book club, the author(s) join us for some/all of the meetings, the next of which will be Jewell Parker Rhodes as we discuss her novel Towers Falling.
4. Beta Club: This one is my baby.  This past year, I was recognized for having sponsored Beta Club for 25 years.  Wow!  Time has flown!
5. Student Council:  For a while, I also helped sponsor Student Council and enjoyed the activities and conferences we attended with this group.  One club, though, really is enough!
6. Drama:  During my first year at BHS, I was taught drama...sort of.  We even brought two productions that year.  Very amazing...considering my lack of background.  :)
7. Debate:  During that first year at BHS, I was also given the debate team, for which I also had a class.  I quickly learned that what I thought was debate was not quite what this class would work to accomplish.  We traveled.  We competed.  I learned so much!
8. Yearbook:  During that first year...and for several years...my students and I designed and created the yearbook.  Someone more analytical than myself might conclude that based on 6-8...I was either being encourage to leave...OR...Mr. C. certainly had confidence in me!
9. Student Book:  This one should have fallen after #2, as out of BHS Reads came a student book club.  With a bit more emphasis, this group could be much more active.  Need to work on that next year!
10. Project Unify:  During year one of the organizing of this group, I worked with them; then after a year two or so, I faded out of this one, as others, much more capable than myself, took over!  I learned much at Special Olympics and partnering with these students.  Very powerful.  Very.

Conclusion (Refer to the Introduction)

Clubs keep me young!  Forever young?  Working with students, assisting them as they develop as leaders, watching them grow, finding themselves and who they one day want to be, this is just one of the many perks of teaching.  Blessed I am!

Here, I wrote with my students for their weekly blog post.

The Topic:  Find an image on Google, link to the photo, and write about something on which I connect.

_________________________________
This picture reminds me of the cute skunk that lived in our barn last year and then birthed babies...right in the path to feeding our horses.  The Husband, being the kind human he is, simply left the mom there to raise her babies.  Then, one day, she was gone.

This reminds me of...

NPM #7: A Good Friday

In celebration of National Poetry Month...celebrating the Spoken Word...

A Good, Good Friday

A four day week, for little did snow did the clouds release.
A four day week, an extra day to our weekend increase.
A four day week, a Good Friday to celebrate:
No school.  This day the Lord sin did dominate.

On this Good Friday, I remember...
The walk.
The women.
The seven sayings.
The body gently placed.
All my sins forgiven, grace and mercy interlaced.

On this Good Friday, I remember...
My job is not finished.
My salvation joy again replenished.
My love for Him never to be diminished
His Light, His Love, His Grace...never extinguished.

On this Good Friday, I remember...
...to spend time with Him.
...He gave time for me.
...for today He gave His Only Son.
...this He did just for me.

Yes...this is a Good, Good Friday.

NPM #6: I Am Reminded

In celebration of National Poetry Month...writing the Spoken Word...

I Am Reminded

Two meetings, back to back,
Of thoughts, insights, comments, none do lack.
Two meetings, both of which focus
On Him, learning and rejoicing, girl time a bonus.

Then, I am reminded of a prayer now answered.
A need identified when friends seemed to have scattered.
Happily married to The Man, in him such delight.
Yet...
Girl time needed; they seemingly having taken flight,
Each busy with life, drifting, moving, changing.
Emails, texts, calls, no longer exchanging.

So I prayed.

I asked.

Girlfriends to return.  Girlfriends to rediscover,
Needing girl time and relationships such to recover.

This evening:  two meetings, girlfriends greeting.
Some new. Some old.
All precious.
All part of a prayer answered.

Bible study. Women's Ministry Team.
On them, I have learned to lean, to glean, none foreseen.
His timing perfect.  I, He did not neglect.

I am reminded.
Prayers He answers...
If only one asks.

NPM #5: Memories Making

National Poetry Month...celebrating the spoken word...

 Memories Making

A weekend spent with five,
Celebrating Jesus Christ alive.
Women of Joy...and 4,000 women.
His Spirit in these totally brimming.

Memories making,
Water turned to vodka and bourbon,
Oooopsss..not really,
A waiter's humor determined.

Memories making,
Three floors a Diet Coke searching,
Alusive, far-reaching.
$4.50.  No, not a joke.
This one I so enjoyed.
All 450 pennies spent.  Yes.

Memories making,
Three of the six,
Eleven floors climbing.
Huffing and puffing.
Puffing and huffing.
Every step in timing, now heroines to us.
They did it!  All the way to the top!  Yes.

Memories making,
To Steak and Shake,
Signs ignoring, easing on in.
The other four friends?
Watching, quietly, as Brenda and Linda
Escorted back to the door
To await seating for six.
Giggling girls.  Friends galore.

Memories making,
Again a Diet Coke I requested.
This time the waiter said, "No."
I said, "Okay."
"No, no liquor I can allow you to take."
"What?!"
Misunderstood dialects.
Diet Coke.  Daiquiri.
I suppose the sounds are similar.
One Diet Coke he delivers.
Yes.

Memories making,
Pizza.
Chic Fil a.
Joe's Crabshack.
24 Carrot Cupcakes.
Rib Crib.
Full. Stuffed.
For of food, we definitely had enough.

Memories making...
Joyce, this trip her third.
Brenda, purchaser of cupcakes.
Linda, this trip her first.
Brenda, the quiet one.
Codi, the young one.
Me, the bossy one?
What?!
No!  Yes.

Memories making,
Starstruck by Liz Curtis Higgs.
I tweet.
She tweets.
Still starstruck more as on stage
She shares the wisdom granted to sage.
With her we laugh,
As God's Word she brings on His behalf.
I, a nerd, happily
complete.

Memories making,
Elevator riding with Jennifer Rothschild.
Her Dr. Phil, her cane.
Only later, two plus two,
Do I add; do I connect.
Starstruck then again by Jennifer Rothschild,
As on stage the Word she shares,
Bringing all closer, all to tears.
I, a nerd, happily
complete.

Memories making,
Praising, worshiping, singing.
Angie Smith.
Liz Curtis Higgs.
Sherri Burgess.
Jennifer Rothschild.

Memories making,
More tears shedding, though none are sad.
Hands uplifting, for delight in Him to add.
Voices raising, mixing with others, praising.
Spirits receiving, listening to speakers, amazing.

Memories making,
With friends...closer.
With God...closer.

Until April 6-8, 2018,
From these memories I shall glean.

NPM #4: Despite and In spite

Celebrating National Poetry Month...with more spoken word...

Despite...

Despite a delayed beginning,
Fulfilling an academic need,
Traveling, relationships imprinting,
Stopping, starting, moving.

Despite a delayed beginning,
Deflating tire at rapid speed,
Calling, tow truck arriving,
Repairing, tipping, inflating.

In spite of delayed beginnings,
Challenges faced and defeated,
Focusing, speakers motivating,
Inspiring, challenging, leading.

Session 1.  Women of Joy.
Blessed. Blessed. Blessed.

NPM: #3 - Off Broadway

Celebrating National Poetry Month...with more spoken word...

Off Broadway

Today, I reflected on the joy of going to Broadway
There, to see a friend, a star if you may.
Many hours spent observing, reflecting, and sharing,
For this friend was definitely one for caring.

This Broadway actress many roles did perform.
From gatherings, laughter, and meals, one was never forlorn.
No one minded more the limelight,
Playing roles, including a singer, a help-mate, such a delight!
For a time, the role of mayor was hers to transform,
Changing hats, literally and figuratively,
All colors, sizes, shapes, her personality displaying literally.

Then, her show left Broadway, moving south.
Memories and flashbacks followed then by word of mouth.
Facebook becoming the link
As days, weeks, months passed in a blink.

This morning, though, for just a mere second
I pretended that to me she did beckon
As I drove down Broadway
Choosing to forget that no longer may we play
At plotting and planning
At calling and chatting
At mending and making
At forgetting and friending,
But...
That show did off Broadway go,
Only after receiving, though, star reviews in tow.

Thanks, Glenda, for being such a superstar,
For being a friend, for that you definitely are.

NPM: Poem #2 To Stress...or to Rest

Today, I write...for my own National Poetry Month Challenge, as I have accepted The Sonnet level...or fourteen poems this month, one every other day.

StReSs!

Just have to say,
No one has time for this.
Others I must delay,
For added tasks I must list.

Good people.
Good friends.
Earning doubly.
Decisions to defend.

Mastery.  Not a goal.
Perfection.  Not a goal.
Domination.  Goal.
Oppression.  Goal.

Result:  Depression.
Result:  Anger.
Result: Disgust.
Result:  Not disappointed.

To be disappointed,
One must miss the expectation.
No expectations.
No disappointment.

Too much stress.
Not good.
Not healthy.
Too much stress.

Decisions to make.
Decisions to take.
Decisions to share.
Decisions to care.

Rising above.
Rising beyond.
See that water?
Rolling off that duck's back!

Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Repeat.

Time to de-stress.
Refocus.

Now focus.
Choose passion.
Choose mercy.
Choose grace.
Choose love.

Love as Jesus loves me.
Love as Jesus loves others.

Choosing the gods on which not to stress,
For my God chooses me to de-stress.

Tonight, I pray.
Tonight, others pray.
To love as Jesus loves,
Which brings...yes, love.

And mercy.
And grace.
And hope.
And peace.

Breathe in.
Breathe out.

Tonight, I pray.
Tonight, others pray.
To love as Jesus loves,
Which brings...yes, love.

Everyone should have time for that.

Just a thought:

The letters S T R E S S rearrange.
RESTS...minus an S.

She RESTS.

Yes.

NPM: #1 The Perfect Design

That time of the year has arrived again...National Poetry Month. For several years now, I have attempted to write a poem a day throughout this favorite month of mine...and found this quite the task, as this month also remains quite the busy time of the year as I finish up with four classes of seniors.  Thus, we shall see...yes?

Therefore, this year I am committing to writing a poem on the odd numbered days.  This seems a bit fitting, as some might consider this challenge a bit odd!

If you are reading and wishing to take the challenge also, join in!  Here are your options:

1. Challenge 1 - The Epic:  A poem a day...yes, everyday!  You choose the topics and types of poetry you prefer.
2. Challenge 2 - The Sonnet:  A poem every other day (evens or odd) and write at least 14 days this month.
3. Challenge 3 - The Limerick:  A poem at least five time, for you are just here to have a good time and learn about yourself as a poet (aren't well, though?)
4. Challenge 4:  The Haiku:  Three poems...as short as you would like them, for you just prefer to dabble a bit and tryout this challenge.

One winner from each category will be awarded a prize!  Just post a link to your blog in the comments below (or in any post in which I publish a new poem).  Add another comment when you have completed the challenge.  I look forward to your endeavor and the spirit behind the challenge being met.  Good luck!

Check back here also.

The Perfect Design

Placing photos, fonts, colors, text.
Creating a design, using beauty, no less.

Catching that gulp before escaping,
Memories for me are shaping.

The numbers adding up,
Thirteen years in school,
Seven in elementary,
Three in junior high,
Three in high school.
Plus...
Many friends, both girls...and boys.
Four heart surgeries.
Selfies galore.
Countless assignments.
Several grades of various letters.
Equals...
A soon-to-be alumna of Pioneer Land.

Of this girl I am proud.
For me she has wowed.

Her teacher I am.
Her mom I am.
Her friend I am.

This design so perfect,
Heart and lung, to man, a defect,
To her family, simply, a miracle, no doubt.
God's Grace forever we will shout.
Healing, growing, overcoming,
Smiling, laughing, becoming...

This design so beautiful,
Presenting to friends so suitable,
Wishing her years of success,
Standing by her nonetheless...
As the last events begin...
Prom, Banquet, Graduation...the end.

Wait!

Home she stays,
Loving her mom and dad always.
A teacher she plans to be.
Following in her mom's steps quickly.

Shhhhh...
Don't we all one day become our moms?

Shhhhh...
This secret we shall keep.

Placing photos, fonts, colors, text.
Creating a design, using beauty, no less.

Catching that gulp before escaping,
Memories for me are shaping.

My girl...a worker, a Christian, a senior.
My girl...of her I am a believer.
Talking about My Girl.

Working with Professionals: Such a Good Thing

Last evening, I participated in a conference call with fellow National Board Certified Teachers in Arkansas as we planned for the upcoming state conference in May.  Working with such professionals inspires me, motivates me, validates me.

Of concern, in our state right now, was the attempt to push through a bill that would have drastically affected the stipends NBCTs receive in our state...with mine being completely cut.  Ouch!  But...thanks to this group of leaders the bill was changed...not perfect...but so much better than the original intent.

From this experience flows two thoughts:

1. Experience is of little value in our state.  After year 20, I maxed out on our pay scale.  In what other profession do businesses no longer grant raises?  That's right, with the exception of a 1% raise (how low can you go?!), I have not received a raise, not even a cost of living increase, in six years.  Yes, that does something to you.  THEN, my national board stipend was nearly stripped...or washed out to sea...to continue that above metaphor!  For the first time, I felt old.  Dear friend, 50 is just too young to feel this old!  Seriously!
2. On a more positive note, this group of officers and board members do make an impact in our state.  As a newbie to this board, this is the message I want to share with other NBCTs.  Had this group not requested a meeting, had this group not vocalized their concerns, had this group not insisted upon a compromise, this bill would have quietly passed, for never was the input of this group requested...nor wanted, is my thought.  Yes, there is power in the voice.  Very thankful for this group of leaders.  Very.

With these thoughts in mind, I so encourage you to become involved in a professional organization.  Find one that stands, that pushes you, that validates who you are as a professional.

I often attribute my professional growth to this group and my involvement in my other professional organization, the Arkansas Reading Association.  Through them, I learn, I am challenged, I am stimulated...yes, I grow.

We have experienced little professional growth in our department in the last few years.  For instance, I work with a three-year English teacher who has attended one professional conference in the those three years (and that one was not initialized by the district).  Unfortunately, his professional growth has been stunted. 

Note of Clarification:  I am not saying that I cannot grow from working with my peers.  I do.  I learn from the newbies as we share ideas, methods, choices.  Some I utilize; some I allow to continue floating out to sea!  :)

There's just something about meeting and greeting with professionals in your co-op, your state, your nation.  A classroom can be a lonely place...oh, the irony!  Therefore, all the more reason for peers to meet and grow.  Absolutely!

In what professional organizations are you involved?  Are you active?  Just on the roll?  (I am also a member of ASCD...one of those roll members because I appreciate the membership professional book benefits!)

How have your professional groups encouraged growth within you?  Let's keep growing!

For the Love of Challenge

For the last few weeks, several students in every class have been challenging me to the most pages read contest.  One read over 3,000 pages.  In his words, "I usually watch a movie.  I just didn't.  I read instead."

I read, also.  Then, I slacked off, wanting some of them to win.  Several I beat...two, including the one above, beat me.

What is it that makes us just love a good competition?  Whether the extrinsic reward of "beating" others or the intrinsic reward of achieving, competition pushes us, motivates us, compels us.  While negative consequences may occur as some get left out, some seldom win, the positives seem, in my experience, to outweigh the negative.

This competition was a win-win.  The students read.  I read.

And the winners?  Sweet treats on Valentine's Day...aka, Gillmore Brownies, which resulted in my baking 11 batches of Double Brownies = 22 brownie mixies, 5+ cups of water, 11 cups of oil, and 44 eggs.

Yes, they are sweet kids...figuratively...and literally!

We'll not tell them that I had planned to treat them to this favorite treat...shhhhhh.  :)

Grade Sheets...and Such

In my English 10 classes, I handed back a recently written three-chunk paragraph and asked them to create a grade sheet determining how much each component/part/sentence would be worth.  I heard...

• "We made this worth too much."
• "This is hard."
• "I am just going to wait on Mrs. Gillmore to give us the points."

Interesting.

Should do this more often...before they write.  I know this.  Why do I not do what I know I should?  

You know the answer:  this assignment came to me on the spur of the moment...and it was a good one...of course!  Then, as they began handing them in, I knew...I knew they, too, had written on the spur of the moment.  Thus, today...we slowed down, worked on a common grade sheet, and then took the time to rewrite, this time earning the points on the grade sheet.

Good day in English 10.

Literacy Giants...or just too biased?

Living in this country is such a privilege, one we cannot appreciate, for we have always been blessed in such a way.

With that said...

Throughout my 26-year career in education in the literacy field, I have come to admire and respect and somewhat faithfully follow some of whom I refer to as the Literacy Giants.  I purchase their books, read their blogs, "follow" and "friend" them on social media, and attend conferences just to hear them speak...and maybe even obtain their autographs!

Until.

This election.

Where sides seem to be enemies.  Where one is a deplorable if not on the right side.

I will not apologize for who I am...an educated, white woman who lives in the South who does not go barefoot and have only once been pregnant in my 50 years.

I have read their posts, nearly all political, all alienating approximately 50% of their readers.

I read...and read.

Then, I began to mute and hide their posts, for I do not read their tirades to change my political views.  I read to grow professionally. Of this, I so wish these Giants would remain cognizant.  My not purchasing their books will not break their bank accounts, and, honestly, should one ever happen on this post, certainly, the response would be a further attempt to belittle me.

I so hope I am wrong, for I want the Literacy Giants to continue making money off of 100% of their readers, followers, purchasers of paper products (and digital ones, also...just enjoyed that alliteration!).

Part of the privilege of living in this country remains having diverse opinions.  Goodness, people, we haven't agreed since the founding of this nation.  Before that even.  When this opportunity no longer exists, what will we have?  Not America.

I love America.  She is I.  I am She.

Disagree with me.  Accept me.  Work with me.  Teach me.

Do not shut me down.  Do not shut me out.

Please remain the Giants you are to me. Help me to continue to grow professionally.

Thank you.

Blogging 101...Or 107?

This year, my classes are blogging again.  Has been a while, for our department abandoned this tool some time ago.

This past week, each student created his/her own blog...and the engagement was 100%.  Totally.  Maybe this comment summed up this assigned task:  "This is fun.  Why can't we do more things like this?"

We can.  As in one post a week kind of fun.  :)

_________________

We have now begun week three of blogging, with my assigning topics, sometimes a single topic, sometimes allowing choice of three, planning ahead, announcing today that Writer's Notebook will become a house of topic choices.

So far?  HUGE success, with the students posting, thinking, discussing.

In another week or so, the goal remains to take this to the next step:  creating dialogue online via the comments.  Using the links to each class, each student, the writers will be assigned two blogs to read and add comments.  Using the lists of blogs, the students will rotate through the list, the end result being they read and comment on all the blogs this spring semester.

__________________

As much as we love social media, why not utilize a tool or two within the classroom?

Tell me...what teacher does not enjoy a quiet classroom...with every student engaged...type, type, typing their thoughts?

Just cool.

2017's My One Word

The below post was written with and for my students in my English classes.
_____________________________________________________________


INTRODUCTION:  My one for 2017 is diligent, continuing a now seven-year tradition from which I have gained much more insight about myself.  In what ways do I need to become more diligent, more conscientious?  I suspect in many, including personal and professional ares of my life.

CHUNK 1:  In some ways, some would say that I chose this word.  Maybe I did, for as the month of December rolls around, I do begin thinking of what my next word will be.  I think.  I read.  I ponder.  I listen.  I read some more.  I awake at night...and think.  This time, no word came.  Until.  Until New Year's Eve...about 10:30.  Then, I knew.  My word would be diligent.

CHUNK 2:  I would say, though, that diligent chose me.  So how does a word choose me?  Hummm...it just happens.  (I know...I am not supposed to use the word it.  That's right...counting on my student NOT reading this!)  So how does a word choose me?  I just feel that nudge, that conviction.  When I think of another word...and I did...my brain just immediately shifts back to this word.  As I assigned this to my word choice to my students, this method worked for some of them, for before I was finished, I heard some saying, "My word is..."  Words do choose people.  Ask them.

CONCLUSION:  For these reasons, I look forward to the results of this word diligent in my life...both its impact on me and the ways in which this word will affect others in my life.  From my previous years' experience, I know this is a life-changing experience...if taken seriously.  Just the other day, a lady shared with me her word...and then her two previous words and the impact they had had on her.  Awesome!













Some harbingers that might suggest this word's success in my life would be...

2017's Intentions

For several years now, I have written Intentions...instead of resolutions.  The beauty of an Intention?  This word gives one the grace to try again, which I often do not find with a Resolution.
  My previous post reflects on my completion of the last year's Intentions and based on that reflection, I should intend to list some of last year's Intentions again!

Here goes...all 17...in no particular order!

1. Read more!  Last year I read 39 books...11 of those completed in the last two weeks of the year.  That's right...I went through quite a spell of not reading at all.  Not good.  A book lover, as myself, an owner of many books, as myself, just not just purchase books to sit on a shelf.    Thus, this year, while realizing the commitments within my life, I intend to read a book a week...not a total of 52..but one book per week.
2. Read the entire Bible this year.  I completed my first read...but that took me two years.  
3. Write more...here...and on my other blogs.  May just be short posts.  Better some reflection than none, as I put off writing what I hope will be extensive thoughts due to lack of time.
4. Continue involvement within my professional memberships.  These groups brought immense professional validation within my life last year.  A blessing beyond measure.  AND the friendships I treasure. Again, a blessing.
5. Witness my daughter graduate and begin her first year of college.  Wow!  
6. Practice my markswomanship.  I have said this in the past...but I want to do this!  AND this means spending time with The Man.  Yes.
7. Learn what this year's My One Word...diligent...has in store for me.
8. Continue involvement in two book clubs:  Paper Chase Book Club and BHS Reads.  AND this will result in 24 of my 52 books!
9. Be more hospitable by inviting friends and family into my home.  I do and have hosted events at school and within my church, but inviting persons into one's home is just more personable.  
10. Continue my women's Bible Study Group:  Making Choices for Him.  This past year we concluded out meetings with a Christmas dinner at my house.  Fun, food, and fellowship.
11. Be blessed as I witness the growth of  those within my Sunday School Class; this class has grown some this year in numbers.  I like them!  Great people.
12. Be ready to walk through open doors, to leave alone doors that are locked to me, and to enjoy simply looking through a window should be what is before me.
13. Be creative...whether through making quilts, painting on canvasses, or finishing cutouts prepared by The Husband.
14. Push my "kids" in all my classes (high school, college, and church) to learn just a bit more than they thought they wanted to learn.
15. Be timely, arriving on time, if not early.  To sit and wait for a meeting to start is a waste of time during which I could be accomplishing something else.  That's right...I have never thought I was one to run late...I was just always multi-tasking.  Right!  BUT those observing my arriving late do not know what I just left...they just see me as late.
16. Attend events, concerts, conventions that ensure that I continue to grow and learn.
17. Spend more time with my side of the family and appreciate the gift they are to me.

There. All 17 Intentions.

Good luck to me!

Now, to read for a bit.  Yes, see numbers 1, 2, 8, and 10!