Summer Skies

August 30, 2013 Photo of the day: "Pink Skies"

The clouds were pink in the brilliant morning sun.

"Pink sky in the morning, sailors' warning!"

 

As the day grew balmier, wisps of gray

mingled among the fluffy white clouds.

By late afternoon, the sky grew dark...

and storm clouds twisted overhead...

until the rain streamed against the windows.

After the deluge, the skies cleared

and the billowy, white clouds returned.

By evening, the sky was pink again.

"Pink sky at night, sailors' delight!"

Around the Mulberry Bush

August 29, 2013 Photo of the day: "Mulberries"

The first time I wore my new shoes, I avoided my usual shortcut across the school lawn, fearing the morning dew would ruin my suede flats. Ironically, the sidewalk was covered in fresh preserves that stained my soles crimson. The tree above my head was heavy with glossy black, red, and peach berries. I was tempted to taste one, but decided it was more prudent to take a picture. Research revealed that these lovely mulberries make delicious tarts, jams, wines, and tea.  Oh well, better safe than sorry!

On the Horizon

August 28, 2013 Photo of the day: "On the Horizon"

At the end of our three teacher in service days, I find myself feeling thankful to work with so many inspiring, caring, and creative educators. These past few days, I have had the opportunity to work with several teachers who have left me feeling inspired, appreciated, and energized! Even more remarkable is that dozens of my colleagues chose end their day together on the deck of a local pub, sharing ideas and enjoying each other's company. Later, on my own deck, I watched the sun set, feeling the blessed exhaustion that comes from knowing that today I worked hard to make a difference. Tonight, I offer a prayer of thanks for the bright new academic year that is just on the horizon.

Dappled Apples

August 27, 2013 Photo of the day:  "Dappled Apples"

I've walked down those stairs hundreds of times, yet never noticed the apple tree. Some days, I search and search for something interesting or inspiring, while some days, something catches my eye when I'm not consciously looking. Sometimes, I take several pictures, attempting to capture the optimal angle and light, while sometimes I snap a quick photo and am thrilled by its spontaneous beauty!

Open House

August 26, 2013 Photo of the day: "Open House"

Welcome students, parents, colleagues, readers

to the new PHS Technology and Literacy Center

I may no longer be teaching French, 

but I'm still a francophile. I spy...

2 Eiffel Towers, a map of Paris, a Metro ticket....

Reflecting on Summer 2013

August 25, 2013 Photo of the day: "Reflection"

Sunday evenings are always bittersweet. The weekend is winding down and the realization that Monday morning is imminent sets in around 5 o'clock. No Sunday evening is more arduous than the final day of summer vacation. 

This afternoon, we visited our nephews who were undeniably apprehensive about going back to school tomorrow. They swam and played but were noticeably melancholy. Although, they are excited to see their friends and to learn new things, it's hard to give up those deliciously lingering summer days.

As I prepare to return to school tomorrow, I am reflecting on the past ten weeks in anticipation of that inevitable question: "How was your summer?" Actually, it really doesn't feel like I ever left at all. I presented at a conference, taught three technology classes, worked to complete my Google certification, and spent several days each week helping teachers with their tech plans for the new school year. We need the engine serviced and our mast rewired, so we haven't been sailing at all. Aside from a four-day 4th of July weekend in Sturgeon Bay, we didn't get away or take a vacation. We didn't go to the outdoor or watch the Perseid meteor showers. We only had one bonfire in May and hardly grilled out or had picnics on our deck. I did read a lot, but mostly books for the American Lit class that I am teaching and Pewaukee's summer book club selections. So, since it hardly feels like I left, I guess I'm ready to go back :)