January 3, 2016

• Three gratitudes: 1.—Winter Spice herbal tea; 2.—Finding a great article to go with tomorrow's lesson, and I don't even have to make copies because of technology; 3—Facebook
• Exercise: Only 15-20 minutes of walking in the frigid temps.  I have to find a better plan.
  
• Meditation: Prayed a rosary with intentions for a peaceful and productive week ahead for all teachers and students returning to school.
  
• Random Act of Kindness email: A message.
  
• Journal about one positive experience in the past 24 hours:

Two flashback moments occurred when I logged on to Facebook today.  First came an old photo of me with my dear college friend Paige and two of her friends from home.  In the picture I'm doubled over with laughter, and all four of us are rocking some big late-eighties hair.  I have no memory of where we are or what is so hysterical, and I guess that doesn't really matter. The shot is symbolic of that time period in my life—the spirit, the adventure, the joy.  And any memory with Paige brings a smile to my face; I'm thrilled that I'm connected with these three beautiful women. 
While commenting back and forth with that college photo, I noticed a friend request come through.  I recognized the name immediately, and for a teacher who has shared a classroom with over a thousand students, that means something.  I clicked her name, and oh, that profile pic!  One single glance at that now thirty-something face, and my world returned to the halls of Proviso East High School.  Janessa was my star—she loved to write, and she always had an opinion to not only share, but support!  I adored her spunk.  The second I "confirmed," a post appeared:  "Mrs. Magradddddyyyyyy!"  There's something about knowing that someone just thought of you.  You become aware of being special, appreciated, remembered.  What a wonderful feeling that is!  So glad to be reconnected, Janessa! You  made my day!  :)  (I always forgot to get my pic taken for the Proviso yearbook.  I think this is the only one there is.  I'm so young... )

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