Happy to Be One of the Gang!

As I read my classmates' blogs my first thought was, "Wow, am I long-winded!" I missed the "short and sweet" boat! Of course, my darling husband of 19 years has been telling me that for 19 years! J

My second and more pertinent thought was, "Wow…these people LOVE teaching, love kids, are striving to make learning make sense for their students and are committed to what they are doing". I'm so impressed and thrilled to be apart of something so worth while.

My previous graduate work was in the field of Educational Counseling, so it won't surprise you that I have been fascinated with the interaction and dynamics of our group. I am already impressed with the group's willingness to share, the quickly-developed environment of comfort and safely and the cohesiveness of our group. My favorite experience happened at the end of class, on the last day of our first week (or in other words 'last Thursday'). I volunteered to bring treats in for the following week (that would be THIS week, for those of you who are keeping up). One of my fabulous classmates said, "Yeah, but just bring them in for OUR group not those others." I assured her that that was my intent! I loved that already there was a feeling of 'unity' amongst us.

I am a firm believer in the power of a group, or in other words "a community of learners". I hope to see our community continue to develop in the direction it has already taken. I see that happening as we continue to:

1. Foster a safe environment to share ideas and thoughts.
   
2. Take responsibility to be "contributors".
   
3. Be willing to give honest and respectful feedback to one another.
   
4. Bring in treats every week.
   

I take seriously my role in our group and will strive to do the aforementioned things. I look forward to our common experience.