And as it happens every year, December 25th appears on the calendar, which I think is a good thing . . . because we all need some Christmas in our hearts to remind us of our spirituality; of our connectedness to the human race; and that despite all the pain in the world, love triumphs over all.
Just the idea of giving gifts to others - using thoughtful decision-making, looking for exactly the right present, and keeping the secrets of the gifts within my heart makes me happy. I also enjoy reflecting on some of the favorite gifts i have given through the years - ones that were such surprises, that I still remember the expressions on the receivers' faces! None of those gifts from Christmases past were anything too expensive, and some were even handmade. It was the thoughtfulness and the love that made them special.
Besides gifting, Christmas reminds us of the importance of family and tradition. Many ethnic groups have their own delicious specialities, which make an appearance just once a year at Christmas. Add in shiny decorations, a live Christmas tree in the house, and small excited children awaiting Santa's arrival, and Christmas magic abounds.
I wish you much love this Christmas season - not only the receiving of love, but the giving and sharing of love. Enjoy your family and extended family, and if you know someone who is going to be alone, invite them into your home to share your Christmas magic. I know the pain of losing a spouse and being alone, and no one should be alone on Christmas when there is so much joy to share.
I agree with Bob Hope's quote: "My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others." He should know, since he spent 50 Christmas seasons entertaining our troops! https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/bobhope/uso.html
Love is what Christmas is all about. I wish you lots of love.
As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. Rittman Publishing, LLC ®
GRADY GETS GLASSES was the winner of Best New Children's Book 2016 from The Authors' Zone. For more information about The Authors' Zone, please visit http://www.theauthorszone.com/submissions/
Visit Dede's webpage 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!
Elementary teachers in Western Pennsylvania and beyond - I am willing to come into your classroom in person or as a virtual field trip through a group called Field Trip Zoom. Check them out! http://www.fieldtripzoom.com/
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!
Please like Dede's new page Grady Gets Glasses for updates about her children's book. https://www.facebook.com/gradygetsglasses?ref=hl
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