Need inspiration? Wish you could have been with me this morning. It was Grandparents Day at my grandaughters elementary school. Along with the end-of-month assembly where they gave out citizenship awards for “caring”, we were invited to our granddaughter’s classroom where we were allowed to observe their regular Friday assignment. This weekly assignment involves having each child write sometime during the week and then read their “story” or essay in front of the class on Friday.

The common topic for the assignment was “autumn leaves”. I was impressed - almost 100% participation with some well organized and written stories. The image I will take away from that experience is the one of a young boy who had to tack on extra sheets of paper to complete his “extra effort” story. There he was with arms outstretched above his head reading the last few lines on the bottom of the second extra sheet of paper (Everyone agreed he need longer arms!).

Think he will be a writer for life? I hope so - how about you?

On a more personal note - two items: first, my grandaughter was recognized as one of the citizens of the month for “caring”. She received a certificate and a plastic medallion that was attachable to her back pack. She was very proud of that and put it on next to the several others she had received in the past. Interesting how we can be motivated to do good things for so little. Kids too!

Secondly, the real highlight of the day was in Hannah’s classroom when the grandparents were introduced by each child. When it came Hannah’s turn, she said, “This is my Grandma and my “Spoofer” Grandpa. One of the great blessings of my life is the relationship I have with this beautiful, intelligent, creative young lady. The “Spoofer” part? We have a good learning time sharing our observations and stories with a bit of imaginative and playful “spoofing” (exaggeration or double entendre wordplay) to see if the other person is listening well enough (and smart enough) to “catch” it. Yes, this from a second grader - and even before that. Marvelous and very enjoyable.

She writes well - think there is any connection?

Well, enough for now. Thought a bit of 1st rate 2nd Grade writing and “front-of-the-class” story telling might be a bit of motivation for you.

Be well and enjoy the holidays.

- Val

PS: Is there a child in your life who could use a bit of writing or story telling encouragement? Think about it - a few words at the right time or maybe a “high-five” at the appropriate time? Mentoring?