(This is going to be a strange segue, but bear with me....)
One of my favorite writer-podcasters (Kelly Corrigan) recently lost her mom. She told those of us on her email list how profoundly impactful it's been to have a support system of listeners/readers from around the world sharing this burden with her.
...and I think the same goes for sharing celebration.
It's not that I consider my birthday to be that big of a deal, but I *do* believe in celebrating the little things in life.
There's something about having a network of Teacher Friends - like you! - to share fun things with. I hope you know how sincere I am when I say THANK YOU for being here.
Four years ago, I was still thinking, "Who am I to attempt to offer anything to this profession?" Fast forward to today and - even though Imposter Syndrome is still a total drag - I have a growing collection of evidence that I do, actually, have perspectives worth sharing.
Thank you for listening to the podcast, for reading these emails, and for engaging with me on social media. Thanks for the DMs and the email replies... I've lost count of how many times they've kept me going when I've wanted to give up.
And to those of you in the Patreon Community? Sigh. I have no words. I just adore you.
Basically, I am nothing but grateful today.
So - cheers to 42 years! May we find joy in the memories, hope in the future, and contentment with the here-and-now. And - may we do it all together. We're so much better that way. ๐ฅ