Happy 4th of July! At this point in my life I see it as a signpost that marks the halfway point of my summer. I am well aware today that in a little over a month, I go back to my job as school librarian in Carrollton Farmers Branch Independent School District. There are a myriad of things that are different about this 4th, however. First and foremost, this coming school year will be my last as a professional educator (not that you ever stop educating). I launched my career in February of 1971, so I've spent considerable time educating young people. My first class of fourth graders are quinquagenerians now (there was only 10 or 11 years separating us). Despite taking time off to be with my own babies, I've still guided kids in every decade since 1971. It's been a rewarding adventure. Regardless of all negative attention education gets these days, I wouldn't change a moment of interaction with my young students. I take great pleasure in hearing and reconnecting with former students. It is amazing the things they remember about their year with me. The end of this school year will come with a bittersweet sadness, but also great anticipation of what will come as I embark on retirement.
I've been busy sewing this summer. Lots of projects in the works. Counting down the days to the start of school means I won't be able to devote hours on end to my creations. Here's a picture of one of my most recent.
I am working on some shirts to give away as prizes to students in my summer reading contest. I am also creating some decorations for my grandson, Robbie's first birthday. Goodness these remaining summer days better pass slowly.
Modano is the other reason for summer to stretch on. No, not Mike Modano, although I do like him. So much so that we named our new puppy in his honor. "Mo" is a delightful yellow lab mix. His parentage is somewhat mysterious as we have no idea who his father was. Our dog trainer rescued a pregnant lab and she gave birth to 9 puppies. Mo was the runt of the litter--but size isn't everything. What he lacks in stature he makes up for in personality. He is the sweetest, friendliest and most willing to please dog I've ever owned...well aside from my sweet Bella. They are getting along quite well, with Bella taking on the role of big sis with gusto. I will miss not spending my days with them when I go back to work.
Summer allows me to spend time with my beautiful grandsons, one almost 12 and one about to turn 1. LOVE our movie dates with Dylan and being able to care for Robbie when he isn't feeling well enough to go to daycare is wonderful too. Both are handsome boys who light up the room with their smiles. In addition, I've gained a granddaughter in Ellie, my son-in-law's daughter.
Much as I'd love the summer to last and last for the three reasons I've already mentioned, I am hoping it flies by too, bringing us closer to hockey season! CAN. NOT. WAIT. for that first game on October 9. We have tickets for 22 games and I am going to love every single one! The new line up of players should guarantee a fabulous season and get us past the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
