Summer Start

 The end of my inaugural year of being my school's library media specialist took place last Thursday. Our farewell staff luncheon returned to its traditional location in the library, a colleague came and helped take down my bulletin board displays while I completed my first ever collection inventory (100% accounted for, minus the ten books still "overdue"), and I defrosted the mini-fridge before turning in my key. I returned the next day to retrieve my plants, but didn't need to remain longer.  I haven't been back to the building since, which is notable simply because at this time last year, I had already invested six days of de-shelving, moving furniture, and re-shelving in an effort to rejuvenate the space. That investment produced satisfying results, accomplishing the feel and look of my vision for the library.  I'll continue to advocate for the improvement of the program and collection, of course, but I don't have to live in the space to do it. 

During my decades as a kindergarten whisperer, I wrapped up each school year with a reflective post, a brain dump, if you will. I have yet to feel the summary bug's bite as I type.  The news from and reactions to Uvalde have my attention only after I steel myself daily prior to reading or listening to sources. We have adopted a chiweenie dog from one of Dear Daughter's friends, the friend who saved my life several years ago when she strongly suggested I see a doctor for the pain in my left calf. The Teenager has started driver's ed. My greenhouse has been opened, but I haven't completed its full transformation. I'm typically a project/work-in-progress type of person even over the summer. Perhaps this weekend will see some awakening of drive, of a larger purpose within me.  Maybe this snail's pace is a necessary downshift. Until then, staying in bed with the dog, reading books by Alice Hoffman as well as picture book samples sent by publishers for my review will be enough. Crocheting a square or several every other day will suffice. 

Breathe. Read. Nap. Detox. 

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