June 7, 2016 

Living the Dream

I just realized this morning in a moment of gratitude that I am living my dream. I don't remember the day this dream was born, but it was early in my career,  during student teaching I believe. I knew that I wanted to someday teach teachers. Then in 2009 I earned my Master's Degree from Miami University 's Ohio Writing Project (OWP). The National Writing Project believes in teachers teaching teachers.
Before I had even finished my Masters I was asked to co-teach a summer workshop with the amazing  Michelle Lavey. We've been friends ever since. Our class went so well, that two of our teacher participants have gone on to teach children's lit classes using the same text we chose.
Then in 2011 I was asked to co-teach a poetry class with another amazing teacher and writer.
This past school year I was asked to represent OWP in professional development in another school district. Because these were spread over 7 years, I hadn't recognized them as fulfillment of my dream, but they are.
Last week I again co-presented in another districabout content literacy (reading and writing strategies for science and social studies classes). Today I meet with the fabulous high school teacher I co-taught with to plan the hybrid class we will be teaching together next month for OWP. Today I realized, it doesn't matter if it isn't full time . . .yet, I'm living the dream! An attitude of gratitude really does make all the difference.