Who wouldn't love the excitement on kids' faces when they come to the classroom and see the snacks on the table. The carrots and cookies were there for a reason. We had a picture book publishing party.
The students had a choice to read their books out loud themselves or let me read. I love reading the student writing out loud, playing with the expression, making the characters come alive.
Pride and joy, a bit of timidness, all mixed together, when the authors introduced their creations or heard their own story with my voice. A fox and a pink beast, a bear saving animals from a forest fire, ants on an adventure, space dogs, mermaids and sharks, race cars, a panther and camels, fish escaping from the belly of a big fish, purple sheep and volcanoes - we got to know new characters.
Seeing the listeners as attentive and engaged as with any read aloud made me smile.
The student had shared their stories with their parents during the student-led conferences already. This party was for us, our small writing community, safe and with treats. Next week we will get together with Grade 1 who also recently published their stories. Sharing and celebrations matter to writers.
Today is a publishing party here too. Writing a slice of life for 31 days in a row is a magnificent reason to celebrate. Finding time to write on busy days, not quitting, sticking mostly to writing narrative slices form my day - I am happy. I played less than previous years, the texts are mostly with similar structure, I didn't improve my writing quality as I had wished, I wasn't as light and humorous as I had planned, I did minimal revision, but this is ok. I have collected meaningful moments from school and home, showing what matters in my life, and looking back I can see what a wonderful month March was. Reading other slices touched the strings of heart and inspired. And every day when you, my dear reader, visited me and left a comment, your kindness made my world lighter and warmer. Thank you!
Let's celebrate!
Today is a celebration of a job well done! We crossed the finish line and are richer in our hearts for the journey of the month. Thank you for all the kindness you left each day for me.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way to celebrate! I know they'll love sharing with the first graders, too. I know you make your authors feel so appreciated:)
ReplyDeleteA celebration with the reading of their stories. I can hear your voice as you read and your expressions take on their writing. I can see the smiles on their faces thinking "that's what I wrote". It's been a great month for us slicers too. I've enjoyed reading and sharing. Thanks for your comments over the month - they are greatly appreciated.
ReplyDeleteI count on you to inspire me every time, Terje. and this final post is no exception. A publishing party for your students, and you reading their words is simply awesome. I used to read a piece now & then with my students, but except for celebrating with words, we never had a publishing party! Thanks for all your ideas and your clever sharing of your life. I enjoy every word. See you on Tuesdays!
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspirational conclusion Terje. Such wonderful synchronicity. A double celebration. Thank you for sharing throughout another March marathon.
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspirational conclusion Terje. Such wonderful synchronicity. A double celebration. Thank you for sharing throughout another March marathon.
ReplyDeleteTerje, I think it must be the year six fix. I had many of the same sentiments you did. I'm happy I wrote every day, but it just felt different this year. Here is what I do know: I'm glad I'm on this journey of life with you - even if we are worlds apart. You amaze me with who you are as a mom, friend, teacher, dancer, ice skater, photographer, tea-drinker, dessert eater, reader, and yes, writer. Thank you for sharing your world with us. Thank you for sharing your comments with me. And congratulations on another year! Woo hoo!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the picture book publishing party too! What fun!