February 2 is a big day in Pennsylvania - it is Groundhog Day in Punxatawney, PA, and has been for 135 years. Usually, crowds of people stream into the tony town in central Pennsylvania, and lots of fun activities are held for the town's biggest day of the year. This year, 2021, because of the pandemic, events were virtual.
I look at Groundhog Day as the first sign that winter is on the way out. If the groundhog sees his shadow, it is 6 more weeks of winter; if he does not, spring is just around the corner. Either way, winter is with us for another 6 weeks - but we can see the hope of the coming of spring!
This year, with people working from home, kids going to school online, and no one having anywhere to go, I feel like every day is Groundhog Day. I don't always know what day it is; I am in my "around the house" clothes, because that is where I am going - around the house! I stopped to see a friend briefly today after a dentist appointment. She has been quite down, because she is usually active in sports and groups and nothing is going on. I took her some homemade chicken soup, because in my world, chicken soup makes everything seem better. We talked about the whole "Groundhog Day" feeling, and I said that at least now, an end is in sight, and we will be moving more quickly toward spring.
Take heart, friends, that days are getting longer and temperatures will soon be heating up.
Hang in there - we can do it! "No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow." English Proverb
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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