Today I read a Facebook post from Nanci Steveson, one of my favorite middle-grade authors. She asks us to remember that we have so many important and wonderful things that happen outside of our “daily grind.” Like “skies to gaze at, ponies to pet, stories to write, children to hug…ice cream to savor, music to dance to…toasted marshmallow, letters from home, and dancing naked in the rain.”
Although this is part of Nanci’s personal list, I think we could all make a list of those important things. Today I wrote about buying a dress. I have not bought or worn a dress in many years, so buying one was a huge step for me. I worked hard this summer on taking care of me, and buying this dress was a little reward for my accomplishments and an act of bravery.
I invite you to take some time this weekend to explore those important things in your life. Or maybe something on Nanci’s list has sparked writing idea for you. Whatever you write, I hope you come back and share your thoughts with us.
Leigh Anne is about to start her 15th year of teaching, her 8th year as a middle school language arts teacher. As her summer winds down, she is looking forward to meeting and sharing books with her new students.
Three Teachers Talk 
I read this on Friday but did not write right away. This post made me think about being present in the moments of each day and not just going down the To Do List. By being present, I noticed many treasures. I usually walk through a park by my house but this time I took out my earbuds to enjoy the sounds of nature and I stopped for 10 minutes to sit upon a rock and enjoy the sounds of water bubbling around rocks. What a difference!! I recorded a list of things I noticed in my journal. Some were- a bright yellow fuzzy caterpillar I almost stepped on, being reminded of a childhood joy of pixie sticks and the comfort found in a hug. Thanks for the reminder to be present and slow down to see how amazing our world is.
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I have one week left to my break, so your post remained me to add in some fun “must do” time in the week ahead, even though I already feel my body stressing about online school.
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Leigh Anne, your quickwrite reminded me that I really haven’t taken time for me this summer. I committed to a project. I was weaseled (use loosely) into entertaining my daughter while she was home, because she was “bored”, and lately, I have been consumed with helping her get an apartment in Austin. I have been physically and mentally spent most of my summer. Prayerfully, after Sunday, when we move my daughter from apartment to apartment, I will be able to relax and focus on me. Thank you as always for the invitation to write.
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