End of hiatus

This article scheduled to appear in March issue of National Science Teachers Association publication "The Science Teacher" is one of the six, yes SIX publications that I've managed to write and publish between last spring and now. I've also moved into my new home. It's awesome. More awesome than I ever imagined, so much fun sewing new drapes, completing projects, getting things JUST right - I love it because it's mine. I love the things that are in it - remembrances of loved ones that are near and far. And Ella loves the yard. We are in heaven :)

I have traveled much, shared much with students and colleagues, worked very hard, am writing new grant projects, waiting to hear about one I helped to submit (3 million dollars!), mentoring new students and graduating students (one of my students got into a PhD program at the Illinois Institute of Technology - I am so happy for HER!), students that have graduated and published. Yes, published a few months after their graduation!!! It is so gratifying being here and doing what I love!

I was elected to the A&M Chancellor's Academy of Teacher Educators by my university. Its a huge deal - only one person gets nominated from each university in the A&M system. I get some $ which is nice and a big medallion to wear to graduation. Regalia stuff. I'll post a pic when I'm decked out. I can't believe it - an award for doing what I love. Again, I am filled with so much gratitude.

This article regarded work I did in rural Falfurrias, Texas. It was a ton of work and preparation. Everyone asked "why". I said, "because these kids and these teachers need something to celebrate -- why not science?". We did. Huge celebration of 90 preservice (future) science teachers who (very begrudgingly) drove 90 miles each way to spend the evening with Falfurrias high school students, elementary students and their families. Everyone was learning about science, and about going to college. It was a home run! I analyzed the data, wrote the article during spring break last year, the National Science Teacher Association liked it, and here is the result after several revisions.

And now? There is much posting to catch up on. New plants to put in as the coldest weather we have had in 27 years did a real number on our tropical plants. And,  in 2 weeks Annie and Audrey are coming to stay with me for a whole month. YES!!! SO much to look forward to, work to do, more writing, students who need help, and a woman who wakes up filled with gratitude, looking forward to a day that will be different than the one before.

Thank you God.