In January 2020, did what many people do every January. I chose a word for my year, my word was CREATE. Now, as the year comes to a close I could focus on the things that I didn’t create in the middle of a pandemic or the things I did. Much of what I created, in and out of the classroom, was made for comfort and to find joy in a time when routines and structures were changing so rapidly, making way for new routines or habits that I need right now. Here are some things that I have created and bring me joy in 2020:
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A sourdough starter that I keep feeding and trying many different recipes with, King Arthur Flour recipes never fail me.
- A chocolate chip cookies from a recipe that I have tested and changed. I love to bake and share.
- New routines and fun habits with family.
- More comfortable spots inside and outside to work and read, paint really can change how you feel about a room.
- A classroom with strong relationships, that values student voice and choice.
- Hands on opportunities for my students to learn, even while virtual.
- Opportunities for my students and me to connect with people through interviews (1 a week since the beginning of October!)
- And finally, blogging is something unexpected that I created this summer, this blog is a place where I can reflect on teaching and learning in my classroom, and sometimes add a little personal reflection too.
All of these are the good parts of 2020 that I hope to bring with me into 2021. As for my 2021 word, I don’t know if there will be one or what it will be. Do you choose a word for the year?