An Acrostic Christmas Countdown

Inspired by ten amazing, talented, and poetic students. I had the opportunity to teach an after school writing enrichment program for eight sessions. Initially I wasn't sure if I wanted to do it as the proposal was due soon after my Mom's passing but I knew I needed to do something to keep my head in the game. 

To write is a passion, and one I was struggling to find so instead of giving up I wrote a proposal to inspire students to write and decided to focus on poetry. Poetry isn't a strength so I used it as an opportunity to improve my own craft and force me to delve into a little writing 101. I never expected the impact the students would have on me, my writing, and rekindling the spark to write. I'm thankful my proposal was accepted and even more thankful I put one foot in front of the other to move forward and focus on the good. The blessings abound.

To teach the kids about poetry and see them excited to learn, read, and write brought me such joy. Each session recharged me and I found myself modifying my initial plans each week to meet the student's interests and talents. Not only did they write poetry, they illustrated a poem, reading both in front of their families on the last night. The energy and love in the classroom that night was amazing and I believe the next generation of authors and poets is only beginning.

Today's blog is dedicated to them and I hope they keep writing. Without knowing it, God used my passion to write and teach, and my wonderful students, to help me find a piece of me I lost and restore light and love to my heart. I was invited to church by a student and a class of students reminded me why I teach, learn, write, and speak. God knows the way to my heart, I think my Mom would be happy to know I didn't give up and even more tickled to know it was my kiddos at school who triggered the forward motion.  Never underestimate the power of a child.

---

C atching up with old friends

H aving coffee and tea with cookies

R eading Christmas Classics

I nviting family over for dinner

S inging carols around the piano

T asting new kinds of cookies 

M aking memories with each activity

A rriving late because I had to do "just one more thing"

S ales motivating me to get out at 7 a.m.

C lement Clark Moore's Twas the Night read aloud

O pportunities to bless others 

U nwrapping gifts of love 

N ever underestimating the good in people

T elling stories of the past to the next generation

D elivering cookies, gifts, and hugs to brighten another's day

O rganizing gatherings and festivities

W ondering if the miracle of Christmas is contagious 

N estled in with a good book 

Merry Christmas...what poem will you share?