Dear Friends,
2020 was a disappointment in so many ways. The pandemic dictated that we attend meetings and weddings via Zoom, eat take out alone, spend Thanksgiving and Christmas in the company of just one's housemates (if you are lucky enough to have housemates), and trade in the glamour of night life for the comfort of pajamas. Sadly, many lost their lives and their livelihoods because of COVID-19. Like most other people, I do not care to repeat this year.
On a more positive note, and because I always look for the good, some families have become closer during this quarantine. Parents who are accustomed to traveling have had ample time to become reacquainted with their spouse and their children. Cooking skills have been practiced and honed to perfection. Board games and puzzles have reunited families, and gratitude for the small things in life - going to the movies, eating out, family members, and playing sports - has increased exponentially. Everyone learned how to be a part of the Zoom culture. The clothing coffers of local charities are overflowing from the "big purge" of the quarantine. Home improvement stores have tripled sales because people suddenly had the time to do the projects that have been putting off. Gardening sales swelled, as we stayed close to home and closer to nature. The number of rounds of golf played in 2020 numbered 50 million more than in 2019. It seems that we have realized that we need less, and that others need more. It is good to see 2020 end, and begin anew with 2021.
As we sweep 2020 out the door, I wish you a happy new year!
Visit Dede's web page for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics.
I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books. Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self. However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37 years. I remain inspired!
Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book. I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading. Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
Connect with Dede!
Twitter @dederittman
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