What’s Next?

I walked into school with Peter today. We talked about the end of the March Slice of Life Challenge. Yesterday, I reflected that the writing came easy this year. Peter disagreed. “It’s because you put way more thought into this!” I teased him. But honestly, his writing is so intentional and thoughtful.

When I got to my office, there was a mason jar filled with flowers. I stood, still holding my bags, fumbling with the card-eager to see who had left the flowers. It was Dawn. I dropped my bags and walked down the hall.

“I didn’t get you flowers but I’ll hug you,” I said as she stood for an embrace.

Later, I was back in my office chatting with our math coach and assistant principal when Elizabeth, a paraprofessional stopped in. She dropped something wrapped in a ribbon, also with a handwritten note.

Today, after a month filled with writing…and reading- these handwritten notes filled my heart. And so, I’ve decided to give myself a challenge (Yesterday when I was stuck with an ending slice, Dawn commented that I’m always good with a challenge…). In the month of April, I’m going to try and share one handwritten note- intentional and thoughtful- each day.

I’ll let you know how it goes.

Published by Jessica Carey

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I'm a mom of three daughters and a literacy coach in CT. I love to learn and share with others.

16 thoughts on “What’s Next?”

  1. THIS is a marvelous goal and I must admit I feel like you were reading my mind. MY OWN goal for April is to send one CARD a week! I am just horrible at getting cards sent even if I buy them……

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  2. This slice spoke to me. Years ago, I started writing notes to my students each week (I think I even wrote a slice about it last year), and the benefits (on both ends) were so great. Now that I’m out of the office, I miss doing so, but feel overwhelmed to write a note to every teacher I work with. I fear I might forget someone and hurt some feelings (which is silly!)
    But when I remember how it feels to give one of those notes, I can’t wait to start again. So, thank you, Jess, for the great reminder. I’ll join you in this challenge!
    Also, thank you for connecting again this year in the comment section. I’m so grateful for the time you invested in reading my slices and commenting. I look forward to staying in touch!

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  3. This slice is brimming with gratitude in every direction. I remember last year when Ana and I read your blog and whispered to each other, “did you see how those teachers got so many of their colleagues to slice too?? Imagine at our school…”

    Then, this year, Ana made it happen — and it was one of the best experiences ever, connecting so many of us in ways we hadn’t been before.

    So: thank you! For that inspiration, that chain reaction you set in motion. It’s clear from these notes that you’re someone whose passion reaches others — both near and far.

    Looking forward to reading more on Tuesdays!

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  6. I think your writing is very thoughtful and intentional…maybe you just find thinking and intending a bit easier. Maybe having less time to spare makes writing seem urgent but somehow easier. Whatever the reason, I like your idea of thoughtful and intentional notes.

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  9. What a lovely story of the abiding connections within the writing and school communities – and what a compelling new challenge! Thank you for your dedication to the craft and to supporting all the Slicers through your work with TWT.

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  11. What thoughtful notes! I came across a list of “16 letters you should write” that printed from somewhere online. I need to get writing!

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