I've been participating in Slice of Life, started by Two Writing Teachers. I love the challenge of composing a piece of writing at least once a week about life or teaching.
We got another snow day today! I've sliced about how much I love this "real" winter, and I'm continuing to be amazed. I may not like the fact that we've had record snows and temperatures this winter when we're making up days in June, but for now it's wonderful. One of the reasons it's wonderful is that I've been able to spend down time with my daughters. Miami University, where my older daughter goes, instituted a "J Term" this year, giving the students an extra term for study abroad and taking extra classes. She decided not to do either, so she was to be home for six weeks. She has a part time job at a retail clothing store, so that was good, but I know at first she thought six weeks was going to be an awfully long time to be at home. However, it's turned out to be great for all of us. With the extra snow days and full two weeks at break, we've been able to spend time together without the stress and demands school places on all of us. Libby has been able to read lots of books, spend time with her boyfriend and hometown friends, and relax. My younger daughter, the senior in high school, has been able to take advantage of sister time, read for pleasure instead of for AP classes, ski, watch old seasons of "Grey's Anatomy" with Libby, and enjoy her last year living at home full time. I know this snow has to stop eventually, but for now, it's been a joy to live life slowly and fully. I've been able to spend extra time blogging, reading, writing, lesson planning, and working on Choice Literacy articles and the book project with Megan. I do feel badly for my husband who doesn't get to stop with the snow, but even he's been able to enjoy family time more.
Later this afternoon when the roads clear up a bit, we'll be joining my teacher friends that live close by and teach in districts that also canceled school today for a snow day. It's tradition for us to get together when all three schools are off to eat, talk, and hang out when it's not too bad to drive (they live in the same neighborhood, but I have to drive a few minutes). I hope all of you who don't get snow days in your job are safe and sound. I know everyone doesn't get this benefit. For those of you who do, enjoy and savor it. The busy days of spring are right around the corner!
Even Ben, our dog, is happy that everyone is home! Here he is hanging out with Katie. I was looking for a book on the bookshelf behind the couch, and when I turned around, this is what I saw. I was so happy I had my phone in my pocket!!
Spending time with your girls and working on projects sound like a great way to use the gift of these snow days. Love the traditions that develop with friends. We used to meet at the local diner for pancake breakfasts on snow days. Fortunately we could walk to the diner.
ReplyDeletePancake breakfasts sound delightful, too! :-)
DeleteI like your attitude "for now it's wonderful." You have taken the best approach - enjoying the slowness, the snow, the time with your daughters and meeting up with friends.
ReplyDeleteLive in the moment, right?!
DeleteSnow days when they happen are the best. But sometimes it's hard to remember that in June! Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteYep - maybe they'll figure something out and we won't have to go extra in June. ;-)
DeleteI sounds as though this was wonderful bonding time. These moments (even six weeks' worth of moments) come few and far between as they get older, and so you are wise to make the most of your "for now", Holly.
ReplyDeleteI agree!
DeleteWe had another snow day too! Please don't take this wrong...but you know how they have pictures of people who look like their pets? I think this would be a good one! Especially the way they are hanging off the back of the couch and the hair/fur has that curly look! I think it is adorable! Please don't be offended! :)
ReplyDeleteHa - no offense taken. I agree with their curly hair and pose! :-) On Halloween, Katie dressed up as a cowardly lion, and they looked exactly alike! ;-)
DeleteI do love summer in Maine, but I have to agree, snow days are the best! My husband is a school secretary in the town where we live and I teach in the next town. Sometimes we all get a snow day together! So glad you have been able to spend more time with your girls.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great day - and I love that you get together when everyone has the day off. Fun!
ReplyDeleteI loved that pic from FB too, Holly. So glad you're having a wonderful time with your daughters-special to capture all you can. Have fun with the teacher friends too-what fun!
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