6:52 AM Hank says in his sleepy voice, “Mommy, don’t go to work today.” I learn that this phrase always stings.
http://rol.st/VRkqHv
7:20 AM Bruce Springsteen and I sing “Thunder Road” on my drive to work. I’m reminded that singing with abandon is good for the soul.
8:05 AM I watch my students trade non-uniform jackets for uniform ones after my earnest reprimand. I feel grateful they didn’t see me roll through that stop sign this morning.
10:45 AM A shy student relays to me that our field trip to Oakland Cemetery inspired a new story. It is these moments that energize me to keep going.
11:40 AM My curly haired friend tells a personal story in a way that only she can. I appreciate my quirky, brilliant team.
4:14 PM There is laundry in the dryer. I choose to crash toy cars together with my boys and recognize that the t-shirt is correct– Life is Good.
6:00 PM Knox devours a plate of waffles for dinner, my father’s favorite. I realize that no matter how long a person is gone, there are fleeting seconds when you think you can still call them.
7:13 PM I curse in front of Hank. Oops. I learn never to curse in front of a 2 ½ year old.
8:30 PM My mother calls and reminds me to write a thank you note to my aunt. I accept that my age does not affect her.
9:35 PM There is laundry in the dryer. I learn that sleep will always win.
Learner, Thinker, Writer: Marilyn Bauer teaches writing to Sixth Graders at Trinity School.
Marilyn, I am touched by your post. Not only can I identify with the sentiments and oxymorons presented, but I also realize that my daily schedule affords me opportunities of awareness and humility. Thanks for capturing them both.
Marilyn,
Amazing how just a timeline of your typical day can be so relatable, touching, and amusing. Sometimes we just need to sit back and look at the “big picture.” Thank you for inspiring me everyday as a teacher. 🙂
P.S. I have two loads of laundry piled up at home…
Marilyn,
Your post was a great glimpse into your day. I also have a better understanding of why your students learn so much from you about writing – I could immediately visualize you in all of these scenarios! Thanks for sharing.
Your experiment read as a testimonial to me. It was from one mom, friend, daughter, teacher to another. Thank you for your honesty. It helps us all to practice empathy.
Marilyn,
So proud that my A-type personality friend is learning to relax, especially with her own precious boys. Maybe her curly-haired friend (with the exact opposite of A-type personality) is rubbing off on her just a little bit. I am so proud to work with you. You are an inspiration to me daily!
Marilyn, this post is wonderful!
And you’re right– I think sleep will always win.
…until the laundry is covering your bed.
You make me laugh! I hope you choose to post one day!
You post made me laugh out loud and tear up. Lots of lessons in an ordinary day– sometimes we just need to slow down and notice them.