favorite bits

Each week I think it's fun to round up some of my favorite bits. It's a chance to reflect and celebrate the small moments that make life sweet.

The Nester hosts a writing challenge this month called 31 Days. I am disappointed that I missed the chance to participate in this writing challenge. Over 1500 bloggers have committed to writing on a certain topic for the 31 days of October. Click here to see the general topics. When you click into a topic, you will find all of the bloggers in that category as well as their unique focus on the topic. If I were playing along, my topic would have been CELEBRATE. 31 Days is a great round up and one I'm looking forward to keeping an eye on this month.



Katherine Sokolowski shares her frustration at the end of the day and at the same time inspires and encourages us to keep teaching, to keep doing what we know is right, what we know is best. If you've ever felt frustrated with education, read Katherine's poem for a chance to breathe again.

Videotaping in Christi Overman's second grade classroom.

Brenda Power and Shelly Hafford from Choice Literacy spent Monday and Tuesday video taping some minilessons, conferences, and even a celebration around my home district. Even though school was cancelled (!) on Monday, we still made the most of the day and found some young writers to confer with about their writing. Then Tuesday we packed in the classrooms and the conferences. It was a whirlwind, but so much fun. I've seen a few of the tapes and continue to be on cloud nine! 

I didn't get home from school until 8:30 on Thursday night because of parent teacher conferences. The biggest bouquet of my entire life was waiting for me from Brenda and Shelly. Turns out these flowers (and why Andy may appreciate them more than me) are the inspiration for my slice on Tuesday.

I also got to visit with my friend, Carl Anderson this week. During the breaks in his workshop we talked, talked, talked until break time was over. Carl is one of my mentors and listening to him this week made me realize how much my thinking has been molded by Carl. He was the first person to plant the tiny seed of an idea that maybe I could write a book.

On Friday, I made these. They just happen to be the cure for when you feel like nobody likes you. They launched the Ayres' family into a a happy weekend.

How about you? What are the favorite bits in your corner of the world?