writing workshop

Making Plans

One of the things I've become sensitive to is how difficult it is to have so many priorities vying for our time.  We all agree it is our duty to prepare students for success outside of our classroom doors.  On one hand (as is evident from the pressure we feel), one of the things our students must be… Continue reading Making Plans

stories

If you have a few minutes

In the clickey-click way of the Internet, I found myself here.  Storypeople is filled with whimsy, some art, stories and poetry that will make you smile.  I found myself lost in Storyland. The Wonder of It All Sitting there in your pajamas & all the time in the world & if I could keep any moment… Continue reading If you have a few minutes

olw

Happy 2010!

Wishing you a year filled with good-stuff.  What WORD will you live in 2010?  Here's mine:

holiday · writer's notebook

The Power of Place

The more I write and collect stories, the more I realize the power of place.  Thinking about a place can jog all kinds of memories -- even ones you forgot you had.  This past year I have turned to place as a starting point when writing and collecting ideas.  I've been impressed by the memories… Continue reading The Power of Place

writing workshop

Intentions.

A few years ago I began thinking of New Year's Resolutions in terms of intentions.  As opposed to resolving to do things, I intend to do things in 2010.  This seems to make New Year's Resolutions more do-able.  (Isn't it funny how language makes an impact on how we view things?)  Will you join me… Continue reading Intentions.

writing workshop

Holding On to Good Ideas . . .

My apologies for a short (and late) post.  My six-year-old came down with a nasty stomach virus on Saturday.  She was back to normal by Sunday afternoon, but then it attacked the remaining four of us on Monday.  The good news is it hit us all at once and we are back to normal in time for… Continue reading Holding On to Good Ideas . . .

writing workshop

A “To Be” List

Last week as I was trying to keep everything straight, I made a "To Do" list.  I was reminded of an article my mom shared with me about a year ago about a woman who started concentrating on "To Be" lists instead of "To Do" lists.  The gist of the article was about living in… Continue reading A “To Be” List

olw

One Little Word 2009

For the past several years, Stacey and I have chosen One Little Word to live by for the year.  (This idea came from Ali Edwards.)  My 2009 OLW is delight.  (In previous years I've chosen; grace, genuine, & give.)  I've been spending some time reflecting on what I've learned about delight and how it applies to… Continue reading One Little Word 2009

awards · blogging

Woo-Hoo!

Thank you, readers, for your support of Two Writing Teachers.  The EduBlog Awards were announced last night and . . . Two Writing Teachers was selected for the Best Teacher Blog 2009! Ironically I don't have the words to express our gratitude for your support and encouragement.  Thank you. Thank you.  Thank you.

writing workshop

Anchor Charts

Anchor charts have been on my mind lately.  I believe they can be a powerful tool in Workshop, yet I think I haven't quite tapped into their power.  Therefore,  I've been considering these questions: How should anchor charts be created? What makes anchor charts most useful to students? Do anchor charts lift the level of… Continue reading Anchor Charts

writing workshop

“Hi!”

For the past six years I have been talking with a student in our school corporation.  The conversation has been completely one-sided because he has cerebral palsy and isn't able to communicate with words.  However, as the years have rolled by, he has learned who I am and will respond to me. He uses a motorized wheel… Continue reading “Hi!”

writing workshop

Pressing On.

Sometimes I find my resilience cracking when it comes to standing up for meaningful, authentic instruction.  I get tired of being judged and questioned and badgered.  Thankfully I'm surrounded by people who encourage me even during the rough patches.  Not just in this online community, but also in the real world.  One (of the many)… Continue reading Pressing On.