 |
| via |
 |
| via |
I gave my students a daring challenge.
 |
| via |
I asked them to
spool out
a reading assignment
into
a writing opportunity
to
stitch in the details
 |
| via |
unseen
in the story
about the
character's dilemma.
I asked them to think.
I asked them
But one young man responded:
Madame, I can't.
I can't use my imagination...
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| via |
This world is too harsh of a place
for me.
 |
| castles crowns and cottages |
 |
| castles crowns and cottages |
and
 |
| castles crowns and cottages |
set the stage for
problem-solving
to evolve
in a world that
can't believe
but where harsh realities
must bow
to the power
of one who hopes
and spins out
a masterpiece
of
possibilities.
of one who hopes
and spins out
a masterpiece
of
possibilities.
Spinning harsh realities into a masterpiece of possibilities, en français...
ReplyDelete( It only takes one masterpiece to feed the world! )
You give your students so much more than a lesson of language my lovely friend!
Happy November!
~Lynne
w/L
Wish You had been one of My teachers.Poor Boy, maybe He didn't have a Grandma or Ma that cherished and lived with IMAGINATION.A little Sponge Bob would do Him good. Send Him to Me ;)
ReplyDeleteBRAVO..Encore..
ReplyDeletexoxo
Oh I LIKE this!
ReplyDelete"a masterpiece of possibilities!"
Hope does open up a world of possibilities!
a truly magical post, how it delights me....
~ Violet
I hope you point this young man to this post! If he does come to your Blog and sees my comment I'd like to tell him that most of us have difficulties in our growing up years and the only way we've made it into adulthood, sane, is by using our imaginations to build a better world for ourselves. You have been placed, dear Anita, in a most wonderful place to make a difference! The music was exceptionally wonderful, tailor-made for the photos and your poignant words.
ReplyDeleteI love how you challenge your students to stretch themselves to imagine life beyond their current reality of Instagram and iPhones. The fact that you ask them to express those dreams in French, the most romantic language, is even more wonderful! I bet when this young man looks back on his schooling, this lesson will be one he remembers above all others. I just adore your posts, Anita, I get totally sucked in by the music, the movement, the elegant photos and your divinely poetic prose! What a wonderful read to warm my chilly Sunday evening. Thank you my friend! :)
ReplyDeleteExcellent! Perfectly said. Love this post.
ReplyDeleteoh my goOD GRIEF you BEAUTIFUL SOUL. YOU are such a GIFT to our entire world. since there weren't 100 friends before me this time, I read each persons posts after reading one that spoke for me so well, Kim. they are all profound and wondrous! I've had such a wonderful Sunday today with family and friends...this post was the absolute ICING ON THE CAKE you dear HEART! thank you for all your gifts! OXOX
ReplyDeleteBravo! Oh how I wish I could be one of your students. You keep me dreaming and imagining. Love the music and the images of your own……the horse drawn carriage and the clock. Are these antiques. Fabulous! Please, I want to see more!
ReplyDeleteDreamy! I'm so inspired every time I visit your blog, Anita. I agree with the others: You must be an amazing teacher!
ReplyDeleteImagination is everything
ReplyDeleteit is the start of anything
and for someone to say they can't
is such a sad thing, quite a tragedy actually
to get lost in reality every moment of your life.
I am a dreamer and I have a very busy imagination
and I love it ♥
Wonderful post Anita, as usual.
Dear Anita, as a child with very little material things, I found that my imagination could carry me to the most wonderful places, and meet the most interesting characters! I now incorporate those memories into my art. If we can imagine it, it can be! :) have a wonderful week. Xoxo Christel
ReplyDeleteDear Anita,
ReplyDeleteIf anyone could inspire another to imagine it would be you...
Beautiful post dear friend... Loved the music also.
bisous,
Penny
Thank you! Yes, dream, imagine the most amazingly beautiful world--and never discard the dream. That is the quest.
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful gift to us all. Mary
Your photos depict the assignment..............AND what an ASSIGNMENT it is!I hope the young man exceeds ALL your expectations!He is right you know........it is a harsh world.How sad he realizes this at such a young age...........WE SHOULD BE HAPPY.We have all the tools to HELP each other now.........so why are there the ones that always want to fight?Perhaps, they should read YOUR BLOG..............XO
ReplyDeleteDear Anita,
ReplyDeleteYou are such an inspiration, I'm sure that even the young man found his way to the wonderful world of imagination and completed his assignment. Each of your posts is a gift, every time I see an email indicating you have a new post there is excitement as I listen to the music that will embellish your beautiful words and images.
Have a lovely week my talented friend.
xo,
Karen
Dearest Anita,
ReplyDeleteYou are an amazing, amazing teacher to be giving your students a way to make their imaginations soar like that.
I hope the young man knows a joy he will always remember for what you make possible for him through this assignment.
(big hugs)
Et Voila. :) Chills, chere amie...speaking of masterpiece.
ReplyDeleteAnd YOUR photos! YES! This is gorgeous. Every little detail here is magic...as are you.
I do hope so much that those children will realize what a treasure of a teacher they have...and you may have just changed that young man's outlook on life. ;)
LOVE YOU.
xoxoxoxoxo
My dearest Anita,
ReplyDeleteThis post brought tears to my eyes. Please tell Ruben, I did receive his call and as far as I know everything is fine. I have been so incredibly busy so sorry I haven't had a chance to talk. Love you both.
Nancy
Dear ANITA, Your students and parents are so fortunate. Such a sweet and honest comment by this young man and your response was perfect. .. then just pretend and take your time. Children today are so rushed and because of all the modern technology and cold contact with human beings, I believe many loose touch with a softer, gentle side .. which may be part of the problem with the violence in todays society. The best part of this is that .. because of YOU, he has grown.. in mind and spirit. Hope you are had a wonderful weekend beautiful friend:) xxleslie
ReplyDeleteLESLIE! I tried getting into your blog, but it says that "Pretty Petals" is getting a makeover? You are working on a new blog? YAHOO! I bet it will be stunning! Well, I want to thank you for coming by in the midst of your busy building. I can't wait to see what you have to share! Warm season greetings to you my friend...I've missed your luscious posts so much! Happy Monday dear Leslie, Anita
DeleteOh Anita, I adore the ballet and it's music here. All things French and the beauty in collecting your clock, and carriage pulled by European horses. Such stories like yours put my heart at rest. Your last foto of the stage of theatrical arts is my favorite...it's a reminder of all the possibilities we will be entertaining in our up and coming production.
ReplyDeleteSuch beauty you create.
I hope you post your curtain that hangs on your wall covering your TV. When we post our theatres, it will inspire all those who love the theatre, and need to hide something :)
See you soon
Xx
Dore
You are so beautiful. You are always my teacher!!
ReplyDeleteXxx
On se souvient toute une vie d'un professeur qui a enchanté nos jours d'école ...
ReplyDeleteTu donnes à tes élèves le pouvoir du rêve et de l'imagination ... ils ne l'oublieront jamais ...
Gros bisous chère Anita et très belle semaine.
Marie-Ange
Goodness me! A sprinkling of magic first thing on a Monday morning! I now know that anything is possible. The children have just gone off to school and I am alone with my work for a little while. Each picture and every sentence you have threaded together have made me gasp with delight, Anita! Thank you so much for inspriing your students, yes, and your readers worldwide too.
ReplyDeleteLove as always,
Stephanie x
The perfect message for my Monday morning, Anita...problem solving and oh, so many possibilities...you always write your message with such charm and grace...your school children are very lucky to have you ;)
ReplyDeleteHave a good week xx
What a beautiful post!
ReplyDeleteI have 7 amazing grandchildren.....and some of them "used to love my stories"! I say...."used to "because they "used to"!!
I am hoping they will; either remember; or ask me again....."stories" are the best things in life....just my opinion!!!
I love love love this post! thank you so much!
Joli billet Anita, j'aurais aimé un prof comme vous. Quand j'étais à l'école il était plutôt interdit de rêver... Mais je suis passée outre! Il est important dans la vie de garder les pieds sur terre mais il est aussi important de savoir faire marcher son imagination pour justement supporter tout ce qui est difficile et avancer. Et c'est bien, qu'un prof sache apprendre cela aux enfants .
ReplyDeleteLes images et la musique de ce billets sont très belles. Vous êtes un trésor Anita! Gros bisous
Dear Anita,
ReplyDeleteOnce a teacher, always a teacher. Yes, our goal is always to have our students to learn to think, to see beyond the immediate, and most importantly, to learn how to learn independently, guided by their inner voices without having to have external guides. How thrilling to read about your assignment to your students.
Judith
Et pourtant, c'est tellement bon d'imaginer , de rèver , de quitter de temps en temps la réalité pour se plonger dans de doux songes ...
ReplyDeleteChère Christelle, je ne peux pas entrer dans votre blog! Je voudrais vous remercier de vos commentaires ici. OUI, rêver au milieu de la réalité est important pour survivre! Je te souhaite un bon lundi mon amie! Anita
DeleteWhat a sad thing to say and we so hope your assignment opens up a new world for your students where they can dream and hope. We so hope you share what they come up with. You are an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteHave a marvellous Monday.
Best wishes Molly
Dearest Anita, the music echoes the story perfectly.
ReplyDeleteThe young man in your class will never forget you. When he is old and grey, he will still think of you. How I wish I had known you when I was young.
Hugs to you my dear friend, Barbara x
If only every young person you teach and mentor could realise just what a gift they have in you.
ReplyDeleteI love the music ...
M x
I enjoyed that very much indeed; thank you!
ReplyDeleteOne tear in my eye for you and your post!
ReplyDeleteI wish I had a teacher like you!
Thank you!
I am alternating applauding wildly and enthusiastically and wiping away a tear surreptitiously.
ReplyDelete... an enchanting and encouraging and delightful post.
Thank you.
Thank-you for this gorgeous post! Always, Amy
ReplyDeleteAnita, my sweet and wonderful, I just shared your magical post with my dearest!!! Beautiful - could not trust my eyes, HOW similar our hearts are beating. You will know in a few days looking at my post, because there is one element (I just "raconter" the word "hands") that is sooooo similar!!! Yes... could not trust my eyes... you will see...
ReplyDeleteHuuuuuugs to the Queen of magic posts, looove this, your friend Méa
Dear Anita, what a beautiful challenge for your students and the young man not realizing what is hiding inside. From the harsh sides of life, we can truly build beauty if we choose to see. How fortune your students are to have you lead the way, sharing and encouraging their minds to higher places of imagination.
ReplyDeleteLove this post my friend and the music is perfect.
Thank you for once again blessing my day. You sure help along my create spirit.
Sending November Hugs!!
XOXO
L'esprit humain a une grande affinité pour le rêve, qui le conduit sans efforts vers des pays enchantés.(Erasme) coucou chère Ami, sans se concerter nos billet se ressemblent et s'assemblent, l'imagination, les rêves, les pays enchantés c'est un beau moyen d'évasion lorsque la vie, notre quotidien sont morosité, j'aime l'enchantement et la magie..Comme j'aime ton billet de ce jour...Tu évoques la magie, la féerie dans tes billets..merci pour ce joli partage plein d'espoir....Bisous tout plein
ReplyDeleteNélinha
Amie avec un e...LA MAGIE, tu es magiques....
ReplyDeleteYour students are indeed blessed to have you as a teacher, Anita - beautiful as always…
ReplyDeleteBut isn't it just so true. Make believe and imagination are what fuels a child through to adulthood. Without that, where are they? Do we give kids a chance to use their imagination in this day and age?
ReplyDeleteHi again Anita. Thanks for your comment.
ReplyDeleteHowever I was wondering why you (and I think it is not only you)
are not seeing my new post http://roomsofinspiration.blogspot.com/2014/10/gorgeous-attic-bedroom.html.
Sorry to give you the link here in comments section
but most comments on me are directed for my previous post.
Sorry I was just wondering if there is something wrong with my blog.
God bless, and have a nice day. ♥
Anita, What a beautiful, powerful message you gave to your students - and to us. November with it's short dark days and buckets of rain can be challenging if viewed from the wrong perspective. But if looked at through the lenses of gratitude, playfulness and happiness, it's magical. Thanks for the reminder to use our imaginations to find the best in every day! XOXO
ReplyDeleteAnita,
ReplyDeleteLovely post and enjoy sharing in your creative sense of play. I applaud you for your enthusisiam and desire to install beauty and realization of ultimate possibilities in your class. I love your challenge to your students (high school correct?) a challenge in writing to imagine. But I was so taken by your young man's reply "This World is too harsh a place" ... There is something deeper with your student that needs to be explored ... For that to me is a troubling statement. Perhaps he carries sadness where a young mind should see the beauty and promise of a future.
Enjoyed seeing your photos of your carriage, as always an inspirational post.
xoxo
It sounds like your student needs a little inspiration.....a Speedy inspiration!if only some of my former teachers were like you I might of had a better experience when I was a child in school,lovely as always Anita,Speedy is chewing a box right now to the music,xx Rachel
ReplyDeleteYoung people seem to be so deluged with instant internet games, apps, etc. that they no longer take time to use their own imaginations and just play and have adventures! I love your assignment, your help and encouragement to your dear students whose lives are so much in your hands Anita!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
It is MEEEEEEEE my friend...I made it over to say HELLO. I am home nursing my back today and so what better opportunity than to visit my sweet dear friend. I have missed you so. The good thing about my kindergarten students is that they still have plenty of imagination....where and when does it disappear? I know everyone has it at some point....the world got in their way I guess!
ReplyDeleteHope you are very well....life is zooooooming by and our sweet little Micah is 4 mos already! The JOY of our lives. May your November days be filled with many blessings! Love always
It is so important to be able to go to the wonderland of imagination every time reality is too harsh, this is a very important skill to teach our students!
ReplyDeleteOnly you could so eloquently talk about turning harsh realities into fairytales and willing oneself to make something happen. One of the things missing in this generation, they expect everything to come so easily to them....so many lack that "fire in the belly" that I am afraid their parents had. Dare to dream.....I have always believed in the power to do it and make them become reality!
ReplyDeleteWowwwww speechlesss.......what a post !!!......love you my friend......always and always.....love love love Ria...xxx !...<3!
ReplyDeleteWhat a GREAT assignment and a very important life lesson for All!!! I hope this young man realizes you have given him more than he could have ever realized. This was a forever gift in so many ways. Have a lovely November, Dearest Anita ......A+....<3
ReplyDeleteAlways gorgeous, always dreamy, Anita! Perhaps your students should take time to peruse your lovely blog. They could not help but be inspired.
ReplyDeleteHello dear Cynthia! Thank you for coming to visit! I didn't see a blog for you, so I am answering here. I wish my students would visit my blog, but they're too involved with their own social media! Thank you for your kind words here! Happy November! Anita
DeleteAnita, I do not have a blog, but I have posted on F/B, and it is well received by those loved ones of mine that I know would share my feelings. I am always touched by the beauty of your words, the music and images that you share with us. Thank you!
DeleteOh Anita, it breaks my heart to think of the young man saying "this world is too harsh of a place for me." Indeed, it can be, I have seen this first hand myself. But you told him to try to imagine. It's much easier if we make believe and dream, isn't it? You used some of your sweet pictures to tell your story today, and I loved them. You must be a gentle and good teacher, trying to teach these young adults that while the world may be harsh at times, it's still a beautiful place to be. Love Loved your post today, dear Anita. It touched my heart very much.
ReplyDeletelove,
~Sheri
So beautiful - the words, the photos, the combination of the two. Very inspirational...you students are blessed to have you.
ReplyDeleteDear Anita,
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, your photography is absolutely gorgeous! I have visited this post 3 times in the last few days because each time I enjoy it even more. This post is so meaningful to me in so many ways, my friend. With all that the world faces today, hope is one of the most important things we can promote and you did it in such a beautiful way. You never fail to amaze me, Anita. You have magic in you, sweet lady. xoox
I really like this post, Anita. It's timing was perfect for me. I've just been conversing with colleagues about the low morale many people are experiencing, whether it's because they have seen a raise in a while, or because political institutions seem unable to bring people together and function, or the American dream seems not as believable for many people, etc. In this context, the little boy's sentiment, "life is harsh" is a common one. And yet, if we give up on imagination and play and dreaming, then our goose is cooked. I think in the sourest of times, imagination and play are all the more important.
ReplyDeleteLove
R
Where would we be without our imagination. Lovely post. Merci!
ReplyDeleteMiss Beautiful...as usual all your words and images stand out...but perhaps because of the quest I am on, documenting my travels within 822 the last four years...one word alone stood out to me and that word was hope...I know we are kindred spirits who live in magical places and I know you have gone down the hope path gripping tightly to your imagination-- as you have done what I have been doing. I can hardly believe my journey is at least at a rest and I can just enjoy for a bit. It is due to you and the inspiration that you provide not only me but many...that jiggles the imagination when the hope is buried...and whispers...hang in there!
ReplyDeleteThis was beautiful. And so true your reply, 'Then all the more reason.'
ReplyDeleteDear Anita, I'm so thankful you exist. Your posts, more than anyone's inspire me and give me a place to breathe...I just love them. Hoping this fall has been a good one for you. We are expecting a chilly day here in the southwest tomorrow. It's my first real fall and winter in decades...I'm excited.
ReplyDeletep.s. I never got your email...shall we try again? trustyourstyle@gmail.com
xoxo Mary Jo
Merci beaucoup Anita pour votre message.
ReplyDeleteCe post est magnifique! je l'ai relu deux fois, et j'y reviendrai. Il me touche énormément, la musique et les mots, l'imagination et la beauté face à la dureté de l'existence, ce sont des choses qui m'habitent en permanence.
Vos étudiants ont de la chance d'avoir comme professeur quelqu'un qui leur apprend à penser et à cultiver leurs émotions.
Ce doit être très inspirant pour eux.
Passez une très bonne journée,
marie-paule
Hi Anita,
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for trying to visit my latest post.
Yes, there are some readers who said they can't see my
latest post too but there are many who can. Anyways,
maybe there was a glitch on my last post
and besides I enjoyed going back here and I still find new
things to love from your post through my revisit.
Did I tell you that I was once a teacher?
I am actually a professor in college
before being a stay at home Mom with a little
business on the side. And that pic of a teacher
and her students really filled me with delight
as it brought back memories. It is a rewarding profession,
even now I am in contact with my former students
and I am always happy to know that I have contributed
a lot or a little (whatever) to their success. Carry on my friend and inspire
because teaching will bring you much joy even in the years to come
when you are not practicing it anymore. But you know what they say,
Once a teacher Always a teacher.
http://roomsofinspiration.blogspot.com/
Oh Anita how I would love to be student in your class...I would learn so much......A lovely post which I'm sure gave much inspiration to your student.....
ReplyDeleteWarm Hugs to you, Dzintra xo
Hello Anita...so sorry to come by late...what an amazing teacher you are, your students are so very lucky to have you...a stunning, poetic post as always thank you for your inspiration and imagination ;) xx
ReplyDeleteImagine my joy Antia, when I came over here to get my morning C.C.C. fix and I find the newest
ReplyDeletepost, and it is all about imagination and play !! :-).......life is so grey without it!!
And ohhh the music is so befitting! Have a wonderful day today!!!!!!
XXX OOO Many many blessings, warmth and love, Linnie
I do agree with you "Miss Lovely One"!! ;-) ...imagination, play and creativity IS a God given gift, and we are so very BLESSED to be able express it through so many venues and also the people we touch!
DeleteYour playfulness is an encouragement for so very many, even in some of your most serious of words or blog posts you manage to skillfully and strategically place a piece of that magical playfulness!!!!!
Now for the roaming "Mousiekin/or Penniekin" you do MUST WARN her of the dangers that will lurk in the form of a snap trap....or worse...... she must flee!!! :-D
Heeee
XXX OOO
Hello, SNOW? 17 inches, trees snappin and poppin, no power in most of maine. Thank God I have an auto Generator.
ReplyDeleteAbout your beautiful post. I am now singing----- Imagination is funny
It makes a cloudy day sunny Makes a bee think of honey Just as I think of you -Imagination is crazy Your whole perspective gets hazy. Starts you asking a daisy "What to do, what to do?" SNOW Yep!!! 17 inches, unheard of for Nov. 1st.
Read more: Ella Fitzgerald - Imagination Lyrics | MetroLyrics
Faith, hope, love...harsh realities always bow to these, always.
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by.
I stopped by yesterday but could not comment at the time.
Hope you received my email last week, the one with possibilities. ;)
Much love!
Wonderful. Imagination lifts us from the ordinary. The difficult. And into a place of hope, possibility, and beauty.
ReplyDeleteLucky students to have you as their teacher, Anita!
xoxo,
Lin
Dearest Anita, Thanks for your visit and comment, always love to see you in magical blogland! Water? Possible reason is that your mind is saying you're only skimming the surface, plunge deeper and explore all your unlimited potential. I'll email you later tonight with what I've been working on for our linked Christmas theatre production. Wishing you a happy day.
ReplyDeletexoxo
Stopped by again to leave my direct blog commenting link because I deleted google plus. Yay. ;)
ReplyDeleteI love your clock, and your carriage too. Did you purchase them that way, or did you alter them?
They're dreamy.
xoxo
A beautiful post, Anita. And your answer to that young man was perfect. There is much pain, suffering, anger in our world. But in our imagination we can find whatever we choose if we only let ourselves.Your photos give us much to contemplate and work from! Lovely!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful . . . yet sad! I am glad you are infusing your lessons with curiosity, wonder and imagination.
ReplyDeleteMy mind thinks in strange ways and I wonder if you know the story of Adam Steltzner http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adam_Steltzner
We heard an interview with him on NPR. He was one of those kids who no one ever expected to amount to anything. But one evening, he spotted Orion in the sky and noted that it was in a different place. It got him wondering . . . he went to college . . . and is now an engineer with JPL and was the head engineer on the Curiosity Rover.
Chère Anita,
ReplyDeleteJ'adore ton monde de rêve,
fragile comme tes danseuses,
habillées en voiles argentés,
d'une beauté insaisissable...
Je te souhaite des jours plein de lumière...
http://youtu.be/KxGVZ5xiqNs
Ce qui fait le désert si beau
est le fait que
quelque part
il cache une source
Découvre l'émeraude
en toi-même
le rêve
que personne
ne peut t'enlever
Entre la lune et les étoiles
je vois ton sourire
et je sais
que je ne t'oublierai jamais...
Oh là là, cette chanson que vous m'avez donné de Youtube....ce sont des anges qui chantent ici! Les paroles de Shakespeare, la voix paisible et votre poèsie? Ce soir, je rêve encore et encore pendant que je regarde la lune....."How sweet the moonlight." Merci chère Troebadoer!
DeleteBon soir Anita , in Holland it's almost bedtime .
ReplyDeleteYour post is so special.
Your student is very brave to confess he is unable to use his imagination.
He must feel very safe in your class to dare say that .
As a teacher I always knew THAT is WHY I loved teaching . The studentes who do not fit in easy......
They need you . They learn ! And the other students learn as much from this as they learn from you .
They learn from eachother too.
And you also are an inspiration to all of us .
Thank you so much ! Have a SWEET november my friend .
Sending you hugs from Singapore, dear Anita! You have created another absolutely beautiful post!! xoxo
ReplyDeleteGifted teacher extraordinaire! To inspire the magic and creativity is wonderful, to give the key to unlock the door is genius. This post resonates with me and reminds me a the other side of life, of my colleague who does a writing project with students in juvenile hall in Butte County. Some of the students end up becoming award winning writers, in local contests, due to the depth and breadth of their work. It tends to be dark and haunting, like so many of their lives, or a ray of hope. All of it is real, real life. His project is Write Your Truth and the link is http://writeyourtruth.blogspot.com/. Just a thought if you are ever desiring to illustrate a different side of life in class to get those fires burning ;). How fortunate your students are to have you as their leader in learning. xx
ReplyDeleteHello dearest Anita!!!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is my favorite post yet; what a cool post and I am loving the starry photos!!!!! How are you? It was cold and rainy today but we've been having many sunny days hence the ups and downs of autumn weather. It's a great excuse to wear coats!!!!!
My dad had his 4th cancer ablation treatment at Mayo in AZ this past October. They took 11 biopsy samples during the procedure. All came back benign but he still has to go back in January for another ablation treatment as the nodules on his esophagus are still present. He will need these treatments for the rest of his life to combat the cancer cells but because his doctor caught it so early and he was treated this may lessen the number of continued treatments he will need going forward; we hope this is the case!!!!
My parents are coming for Thanksgiving this year; we are so excited!!!! They will be back in Chicago this week.
How is the weather in MN? Hope you're having a splendid week!!! I envision you looking like a chic Audrey Hepburn wearing stylish coats and boots to school.... Wish we could meet for coffee dear friend....
Sending love & hugs,
Shannon
Hi Anita,
ReplyDeleteYou have the GIFT of imagination...and what a gift that is, that you can share IT with your students. I think it's sad that some do not know how to imagine. I hope that boy finds that freedom to do so...you are an amazing teacher! Your students are BLESSED to have you.
I love hearing about you and your students. Hope you are having a good week my friend. I finally posted photos from Halloween of the boys. :)
Hope your November is off to a good start!
Much love, sis!
Heidi
Dearest Anita, sorry to be so late to see your wonderful post! My Mac had been given a great "revamp" this weekend, that interrupted my work. And now i need time to establish everything again ... But it was needed! Love your images here - the fairy dance one is great! And love the challenge for your students. How did they respond? Hope you feel fit again and send you hugs for y lovely midweek!
ReplyDeleteYou have a most wonderful gift of imagination and in this world I do believe it is a treasured gift to have. Lovely post dear friend. Lovely!
ReplyDeleteThat just broke my heart. Imagine a child who feels they have no imagination? I wonder sometimes if the realism in video games and films and toys has taken all the imagining out of childhood. It's already there. You don't need to turn a box into a fort. You just buy a fort of play in a perfect virtual fort that someone else talent and imagination has made for them
ReplyDeleteBless you for encouraging children to dream and imagine. It's not much of a life to look forward with out it.
Imagination is wonderful and such a gift. We all deserve to dream and imagine. The fairy dance is awesome! What a truly lovely post, full of beautiful images. I wish you the happiest of November.
ReplyDeleteYes, use your imagination and set the stage!
ReplyDeleteSuch beautiful pictures as always, I can gaze at them for ages and the music...bliss!
Such beautiful words Anita! I hope your student listened to your wise words and writes you a beautiful story, full of dreams of a better world. Don't know what I would do without my dreams. I don't think I would be feeling as good as I do now. Gratefulness and dreams keep me going :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you for your sweet words on my blog too. I enjoyed reading that you and your husband are as avid tea drinkers as we are. Hope we will be able to drink a cup of tea together one day!
Have a lovely day!
Madelief x
A truly beautiful post dear Anita! A wonderful challenge you have given to your young students my dear. May they learn to dream-and hope-and live!
ReplyDeletesending hugs...
Hi Anita, the best part about returning to a post is, to see something new, to realize another idea, to be inspired for another day while I end this one.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much!!
So nice to see you today. Have a wonderful evening.
Hugs and Blessings
How lucky are your students! And, What a beautiful enchanting post!
ReplyDeleteThank you. What a lovely way to end the day!!!
Big hugs and light to you!!!
Oh yes I agree, it's important to get lost in our imagination at times and to dream a little. So many lovely, dreamy images here but the one which I absolutley love is the one of the ballerinas. Just wonderful!
ReplyDeleteYour students are so lucky to have you! And so are we! You inspire us all, Anita. What beautiful words and photos! Merci~
ReplyDeleteI am in absolute "awe" of your beautiful posts. As your words settle in my soul, your images take me far away to dreamland.
ReplyDeleteMuch much love, Rhonda
Bonjour Mon Amie! You never cease to amaze me with your gifts. You are such an inspiring teacher! Your students will never forget you Anita! To get them to dive inside their imaginations, and create.... that is unforgettable and they will take that memory with them forever. XoXo
ReplyDeleteBonjour ma belle,
ReplyDeleteWhat a delightful thing it is to use the imagination. It has a great connection to dreams, it's where dreams come from actually. Imagination makes us complete. I hope you are well and enjoying the cool crispness of fall dearest one!
Love & blessings, Edie Marie
Dear Anita,
ReplyDeleteSo lovely to be back and to see your gorgeous post - really speaks to me and it is so dreamy.
Your students are so lucky to have you as their teacher and thanks for all the inspiration and encouragement you give us all.
Also appreciate your kind note you left me, thanks so very much.
Have a happy weekend
hugs
Carolyn
Hello my dear friend, thank you for your visit and lovely words. You are one very special lady. xx
ReplyDeleteAnita,dearest...............
ReplyDeleteHELLO!:)*
Absolutely adore your new post,it speaks to me so very much!
And all your images with ballet,oh my...........HOW enchanted beautiful and really touching:)*
Thankyou for saying these words,my dear friend!
Oh,what should being lucky peoples all your students!!!
Xx,
V.
Anita I am back and reading your very special post once again. Do you have any idea where the gilded clock if from?
ReplyDeletexoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Sadly my French classes were never liked that! You should have sent him over to your blog, he would have found so much inspiration here, Sarah x
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, the music with the dancers of the ballet... and courage words...
ReplyDeletegroetjes van Marijke
Ooh, just magical! You certainly have the luckiest students dear Anita and you are a wonderful and constant inspiration to your many, many readers too x
ReplyDeleteWishing you a wonderful weekend!
Susan x
Such wise words and what a beautiful post. You are a wonderful teacher my friend. I wish I had a French teacher just like you when I was in school. It would have been much more interesting to learn French.
ReplyDeleteBonne nuit,
Janet
Oh Anita, As a child I sat infront of a tall radio, it had speakers covered with fabric. Every weekend I listened to my favorite program. "LET"S PRETEND" Remember there was no such thing as a Screen. We had to imagine as the story was told. I hate to say it but some of that was lost with todays world. I used to sing the commercial CREAM of WHEAT is so good to eat.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful music and post. yvonne
This blog is ALWAYS "a masterpiece of possibilities"... you always surprise me, and give me new food for thought. I can only imagine that this young boy feels the same. Good for you Anita!!! :)
ReplyDeleteAwww, the magic of being a student in your class. They are lucky to have you! You are such an inspiration! A beautiful post with a lovely message. xx
ReplyDeleteDearest Anita, are you enjoying your sunday? I hope so! I've been really busy these days, because i friend came to stay over for a few days. Today i cleaned, worked in the garden and experimented with chocolate making ---- next sunday i will host a little "Art & Chocolate" event - am exited! I wish you a lovely Nov. evening and a super start to your week!
ReplyDeleteI as just checking to see if You had a new post and I noticed that You only have 3 more until You reach 2000 viewers. Amazing ! Now,how will You celebrate? Maybe it calls for a dinner out and a toast. Love across the miles and a hug-Denise
ReplyDeleteWAS
DeleteJust Beautiful!!! I love that you give kids a different, positive message each day and your readers too!! xo
ReplyDeleteAnita, I have just not had much time for reading or commenting….but this is too beautiful to miss! The words and photos! As a teacher, your words meant so much more….we need to train them to imagine! xo
ReplyDeleteHello beautiful Anita!!!!
ReplyDeleteHow are you? Well the cold weather is here!!!! We're supposed to get snow this weekend!!!! That's a bit early.
My parents will be visiting this Thanksgiving.
My friend's boutique had a big holiday event- I bought some Acne olive colored leather pants, a Rag & Bone black jacket with gold metallic lapels, a vintage orange fur shrug, a Erica a Dunk statement necklace, & a bunch of other great stuff!!!! I love the special holiday sales!!!!
How is school?
Hope all is wonderful and you're staying warm in your chic coats and stylish boots!!!!
Hugs,
Shannon
This post is so magical, dearest Anita! What a joy it is, to have you as a teacher..............it makes the world so much better! And to be here and listen to your words, and to see all the beauty, makes my heart sing! Thank you so much and have a wonderful week, my dear friend,
ReplyDeletewith love, Jade
OMG
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful post!!!
I found you through serendipity (AKA The Vivenne Files).. And your blog it's pure magic....
I understand that you are a French teacher, aren't you???
I use to have to dream jobs as a child either librarian or french teacher!!!
But you know life have other plans for me...
Anyway thanks for sharing this beauty
regards from Spain
Isla! HOLA! No puedo hablar espagnol! Thank you for coming to visit me via Vivienne Files! I am so happy to meet you and that you enjoyed this post. I am leaving a reply here since I see you do not have a blog?
DeleteMany thanks and wishes to you in Spain for a lovely holiday season! Anita
Oh Anita, thank you soooooooo much - your lovely comment made my day! You always take your time to be such a good friend! To be here in your world makes happy and strong.........so I love to come back! And how great, that you like the horses.........every day when I walk with Sheila, we only meet horses (a lot of them). Have a wonderful day,
ReplyDeletehugs Jade
I have been on your blog for quite a while now enjoying your lovely words and beautiful pictures....as well as the music :) I am a happy new follower of yours.
ReplyDeleteHave a delightful day! Hugs to you!
Thank you for visiting, Anita. You are most definitely among the few beautiful souls who inspire me to extend my temporary blogland visa. ;)
ReplyDeleteThank you for letting me know that the link to Lynne was incorrect. I've updated it. Her post is here: http://dreamson34thstreet.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2014-11-11T07:07:00-08:00&max-results=2
Have a lovely day, friend.
xoxo
I absolutely love this post!!! :)
ReplyDeleteHello Dearest Anita :-D
ReplyDeleteI am so glad that I finally have my computer back!!
I was so glad to see you over to see what the Mousiekins were up to hee hee!
(they were glad to see you too ;-D )
I hope that you are having a wonderful week andit is filled with JOY !!
Blessings, love and warmth, Linnie
I h
So wise, Anita. That is so what children need. To imagine, to believe, to create.
ReplyDeleteThey are blessed to have one so masterful as to inspire them so.
Hugs,
Patti
Bonjour dear friend,
ReplyDeleteI just had to stop in and soak up inspiration and beauty. I love this post.
bisous!
Your essence of peace and tranquility positively radiates from your post my dear Anita. We must never lose our childlike qualities. Why must we learn to fear and to hate and lose our innocence? Bliss and Serenity and Joy are Possible...
ReplyDeleteDrar Anita.... Visiting You is like stepping in to a fairytale!And a Wonderful Disneymovie!and a beatiful Dream.All at once!Wonderful post,You are so good with pictures...,and I can tell you're having fun and playing with Them :))))
ReplyDeleteI wanted to answer You a question You Asked me on one of my posts...You Asked if we had a storm,since it could look like some building parts we're brøken.I have to tell You,I actually saved these parts from an old house They demolished (unfortunately
) so I am so glad I manager to save some of the beautiful Details.I am raining the parts at our house here,can't wait :))
My Kind of playing ;)
It will make a Lovely entrance to a little house we have next to our house,today only
Y used for storage But I hope Someday I'll open a shop there,with all kinda of new and old treasures!You see,I Don't work,since I have Fibromylgia and it seems like Lupus too!So I want to "manage on my own" withouth welfare and this is my chance ,giving me the possibility to work When I am able to.
I hope you're well?
Looking forward to Christmas decorate I am sure,can't wait to see your Christmas posts!!!At the moment I am actually putting up some wintergarden branches on our veranda,a little bit early But I thought I'd take adventsglede of the beautiful weather!all things done is good!
Thanks for all Lovely comments from You sweet friend !!!
Tovehugs :)
Hello dear friend, thank you for coming to see me today. Looking out of my window I can see nothing but grey sky and rain but your sweet words always bring the sunshine. xx
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your lovely comment about the Grand Mosque. Your visits and opinion are always appreciated!
ReplyDeleteHi Anita! How are you? Thank you so much for visiting me this morning. You are such a kind friend and I do appreciate all of the thought and effort your put into corresponding. I hope you have a fun weekend planned! We are ONE week away from moving back in and having a kitchen again. There will still be LOTS to do but I/we are totally exhausted. This entire ordeal has been a real stressor on EVERYTHING. Take care my friend! xxleslie
ReplyDeleteDear Anita,
ReplyDeleteSo good to see your visit this morning... Thank you so much for your constant encouragement.
bisous!
Dear Anita - just beautiful November waltz. So relaxing to listen to the music and read your words. Thank you so much for this wonderful time I enjoyed here. Hugs!
ReplyDeleteAnita, I have written a comment several times, and yet when I hit publish the comment disappears. One more time...If it disappears again, I'll send you an e-mail.
ReplyDeleteOkay, it's working, I must have done something wrong. This post is as lovely as you are. It's a very important post, because it reminds us what a different world our youth is growing up in. Our's was a sweeter time and perhaps created an atmosphere easy to dream in and certainly to let our imaginations fly. We need more teachers like you, who have the ability to help our children have hope. You are not only an inspiration to your students, but to us. You are such a pure heart, never change. Karen
ReplyDeletei love the things you share with us
ReplyDeletedance
magic
beauty
imagination
it all touches my heart, you do
Bonjour Anita,
ReplyDeleteMerci pour votre message. Je pense que vous définissez très bien une notion qui m'est chère, c'est qu'au-delà de la décoration, de l'esthétique pure, il y a, ou il doit y avoir une réflexion plus profonde sur la vie, un regard attentif sur ce qui nous entoure. Je crois que tout est lié, la beauté, les émotions, le présent et le futur, les bonheurs de la vie et une réflexion sur la mort.
Merci encore de votre fidélité et de vos encouragements.
Très beau dimanche, je vous embrasse,
Marie-Paule
Giving inspiration to ones imagination
ReplyDeleteis one of the finest gifts of all !
You are a wonderful source of inspiration to your students ,
of this I am certain my friend.
Thank you dear Anita for following me where ever I go. xx
ReplyDeleteI know you must be the most wonderful French teacher. Though I could not read most of this post...I cannot look at the photos that move they make me feel dizzy...your heart is full of beauty. So happy you get to travel to France with them this Spring! A dream come true for you, I believe.
We love imagination, plus to be in inspired is such a joy. You inspire so many of us Anita. Hugs
ReplyDeleteDearest Anita,
ReplyDeleteBlowing you a kiss all the way from Rotterdam to thank you for your kind comment on my blog. Hope you are well and enjoying autumn to the full. We are having some grey and misty days, but they do have their charm as well. It makes one feel a bit melancholy, but in a good way :-)
Have a good week!
Madelief x
This world is too harsh of a place for me to use my imagination. Now there is a statement from that young man that made me sad, because if there is one thing in this world that we need more to deal with life is imagination. And I love your answer to his statement. It was sensitive and so true.
ReplyDeleteTruly magical, Anita! Your students are so blessed to have you in their lives to make life more beautiful… and show them the possibilities! Warm November blessings, my friend! ♡Dawn
ReplyDeleteDearest Anita , november is halfway and autumn overhere in holland is very soft and beautiful .
ReplyDeleteI want to send you some words overhere and sometimes wish i could write in dutch .
Wishing you a happy week .
coucou Anita, encore un joli post de ta part pour le plaisir des yeux, je l'adore, vraiment ton article est un cadeau pour moi.
ReplyDeleteJe viens de voir chez Nélinha que tu vas aller en provence pour l fête des 12 desserts, oh la là... tu êtes chanceuse, j'adore la provence, j'ai ma fille et mon petit fils dans cette belle région de la France et je vais souvant.
Je te souhaite un bel aprés midi
gros bisous
rosa
http://rosa888.canalblog.com/archives/2014/11/17/30957219-p50-0.html
Hi Anita, stopping by to say hello and wish you a wonderful week. It is cold but we are predicted for a warm up back to the 60/70's.
ReplyDeleteIt is crazy to be in the 20's for about a week and then warm again. However the cold has placed me in the Christmas spirit!!
Love visiting the beautiful post once again.
Hugs and Blessings
YOU DOLL YOU...I don't know if I have already said this...but...you are so treasured. your words, your thoughts, and your KNOWING(s thank you dearly Anita. I bet your students and studies are keeping you busy as a bee (in summer, that is;) oxox
ReplyDeleteI wonder if your students know the excellence that stands before them to challenge their imagination and intellect. Oh Monsieur Germaine, my well meaning college Professor of French did not excel in that area....
ReplyDeleteHello beautiful Anita!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe holidays have begun officially!!!!
My husband & I had a party this past Saturday and my parents will be arriving for Thanksgiving soon.
We had snow on Saturday & Sunday!!! That's unheard of around here for November!!!!
How is school going?
We are full throttle into coat and jacket season!!!!!
Hugs,
Shannon
WOW! This was... incredibly beautiful and moving, dear Anita! How I love my visits here....!
ReplyDeleteYou are such a wonderful teacher and a great source of inspiration and wisdom for your students... and your blogging friends. I adore the first photo; in fact, the entire collection of images in this post is magnificent.
These last few weeks have been busy and demanding, I couldn't manage to find time to write on the blog and visit my favourite bloggers. I can't believe the winter is already here (Toronto is covered in snow) and Christmas is just around the corner.
Thank you very much for your warm words on my blog; every single comment of yours in a gift to me.
Love your way
Your little student is correct that the world is a harsh place, it seems to get scarier by the day. All the more reason, as you so wisely expressed, to IMAGINE. I am a firm believer that one must find their own peace and happiness in this world, despite the madness all around us, by continuing to dream and create. Finding delight in the smallest of things, and keeping our eyes and mind on that which is good and beautiful and wise, keeps us from going into a dark tunnel. It is sad that a young child has to carry such a heavy load, I am glad you are his teacher.
ReplyDelete9
Dear Anita, thank you for sharing such a sweet memory on my blog today. How I wish you and I were friends back then. I’ve been reading reports about your weather, wrap up warm xx
ReplyDeleteA beautiful message, Anita! From a beautiful heart. Wishing you a lovely weekend!
ReplyDeleteKirsten
Hello dearest Anita! Thank you so much for coming to my chocolate post! The event turned out to be really lovely. Although many people couldn't come, there were still enough to get the party feeling going. I had prepared 5 differnet kinds of truffle and chocolate creations, cupcakes with chocolate cream, hot applejuice with cinnamon and for the evening a hot, spicey soup. my hiusband lit a fire on the terrasse and it ended rather late. I sold 2 paintings, which made me happy!
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear you're having a good time as well. I heard about winter and chilly weather in the USA and have been thinking of you. But knowing you, i know you'll make the best out of it!. Yes, the festive season is approaching fast now. Isn't thanksgiving now, this weekend? If so, i wish you a fantastic time. So much to be grateful for in this year, in this life. I'm grateful for your friendship and your sweet attention and loving comments always! Happy weekend and chin chin to LOVE and to LIFE ! xox
hello,
ReplyDeletecame back for another visit to your magical realm
so lovely and inspiring ~
sweet weekend to you ~
Just beautiful
ReplyDeleteIt's beautiful post, gave me goose bumps all over.. so touching so real. We have to imagine something beautiful something better to survive this cruel world... I would listen and read it over and over again.. loved it totally with love Janice
ReplyDeleteAnita it would be sooooooo FUN if you came to hang out on the farm!! You would love sweet Lottie! Hee how fun!!
ReplyDeletePapa Mousiekin has not been making hard cider for years now, but says that he will make a special batch
of "The Recipe" just for Tea Rat for when he should stop over to the farm!!
How is the snow out your way? My Hubby works in Buffalo NY and they got hit mega hard!
Sending warmth and thinking of you regularly, much love ,Linnie and the Mousiekins
Good morning, Anita!
ReplyDeleteI'm popping by this snowy November morning to tell you that my little surprise was waiting for me at the post office this week! We only drive to town once a week, so I had to wait for it... but such a sweet surprise! It will be in my photos for Dec 5. I am sooooooo excited to see what you and the others will be sharing!!!
Much love,
Lin
Good morning lovely Anita. Yes, we do all have so much to be thankful for. Our lives can be so busy, but somehow we manage to give thanks where needed. It's going to be a beautiful day today here. I hope you have a relaxing Sunday....
ReplyDeleteHello Anita,
ReplyDeleteHow lovely that you are teaching children to follow their dreams and to use their imaginations. I sometimes wonder if many children are allowed enough time to develop creative and art skills these days, life is too fast for them and demands academic achievements rather than creative ones. Your post is beautifully put together with ghostly images and film clips, accompanied with heartfelt words. I would have loved you as my teacher when I was a child. I always got on well with the art and more creative teachers at school.
Warmest wishes,
Jo. xx
Happy sunday dearest Anita, and thank you so much for your reply! Am thinking of you, sitting by the fire, having it all cozy and warm while the world outside shows it's white and icy, but nonetheless beautiful face. Here, it's been quite cold too, but we're still far from snow i think. Everything's been hidden under a white and golden mist today and while we walked along the river, it looked awesome. I know the beginning of winter is a tricky time for health, so take good care to get enough rest and let your body adjust. So nice that thanksgiving is approaching this week, bringing light and a sense of festivity.
ReplyDeleteThe german isssue of KidsLife is now in print and i look forward to see, what it looks like. I will send copies for you as soon as i have them. The german E-mag will be published in the next 2 days and the english one in the days to follow. I'm planing to have it up on Magcloud, so an english printed version can be ordered as well. Warmest wishes for a splendid evening, M.
Sending warm thoughts for your day! Hoping that you and your Ruben enjoy your feast and thankfulness with joy!!
ReplyDeleteLove Linnie and the Mousiekins and Penniekins :-D
Bonjour Anita. I finally made it over to this beautiful blog of yours, the magical space you have created for you and your readers. I loved this post, in more ways than one. I know you must be "une enseignante extraordinaire," and your students are lucky to learn not just le Français, but about la vie as well under your tutelage. I hope you are enjoying le début of the Holiday season. A bientôt, Anita. Veronique (French Girl in Seattle)
ReplyDelete