TOP REASONS SUMMER, 2013 WAS MEMORABLE

Summer is about to depart with the commencement of Labor Day.  With that passage, schools start in New York.  The changing of guard from summer to fall is too quickly approaching.  My blog this week celebrates summer one last time by commemorating my 10 top reasons that Summer, 2013 was memorable.

Reason #10

“Fun Days”:  These days have been interspersed throughout the summer, making sure that I mix fun and pleasure with work.  On my fun days I go to movies, paint my nails, get my hair done, take long walks or long baths, read a book…Do anything my heart really desires—all for the sake of fun and play.

Reason #9

Restorative Yoga:  The most relaxing, centering and meditative experience ever.  An hour-and-a-half of pure bliss.

Reason #8

A trip to Chautauqua to hear Billy Collins and Paul Simon:  They had a conversation about poetry, music and life.  Very inspirational.  Add to that a few poems by Billy Collins (including my favorite poem—“The Lanyard” and a few songs by Paul Simon.  Not to mention a great friend to enjoy this with—quite a lovely day and evening.

Reason #7

 A dear friend’s son’s wedding:  He was my daughter’s first friend.  It was so nice to be a witness to the love he shares with his new wife.  And my daughter and I took notes, as we are planning her wedding that will occur next May.

Reason #6

My daughter is moving home:  The boxes have begun to appear.   My daughter is in the process of moving home to save money for a wedding and to prepare for the day.  Something to look forward to this fall. 

Reason #5

A trip to Chicago with my son and daughter:   We visited the city and walked many miles, enjoying the architecture, a beautiful shoreline, Navy Pier, water taxis, and deep dish pizza.  I also found a tea company that I love.  Argo Tea—best iced tea I ever had!  Green tea, a ginger mixture and sparkling water—Yummy!  I wish I had the recipe!

Reason #4

Lake fun and festivals:  I have spent more days than I usually do by the lake, enjoying boating and time in the water.  Add to that a couple of lake shore festivals with a friend.  What could be better?

Reason #3

Co-teaching a literacy coaching class with a dear friend and partner:  This is a class I have taught alone before but with a partner—so much fun.  She added her creativity and a bit of quirkiness.  We worked off of one another and each of us was better for it.  The class also benefited.   Inspirational all around!

Reason #2

Re-aligning what I am going to do when I grow up:  My position last year changed again and I have been exploring what I want to do in the next few years in terms of my career.  This is still coming together and it is moving in a direction that I am happy about—one where I can share my gifts and give in a way that makes a difference.  More will come about this in the coming year, I am sure.

Reason #1 of top memorable events during the Summer of 2013

I have completed my 50^th blog post.  In March I thought that blogging was something foreign and possibly more than I could handle.  I wrote every day in March and almost every week since then—sometimes more than once.  This has been such a rewarding experience.  Not only have I given myself a space to write and have grown as a writer and a teacher of writing through my blogging—I have also met a wonderful and inspiring community of writers.  Your words and your support of me and of my writing has made such a difference to me.  Thank you.