May the Muppets Be Triumphant, Always. One More Week to Go with Literacy Labs & Wonderful Memories Were Secured (Kermit, Included)

Still not sure who sent me the random Kermit t-shirt, Rainbow Connection, but I remember singing it in elementary school choir and another 40 years as an anthem to how life should be justified and lived. I'm thankful for he/she/they that sent the shirt and laughed even harder that Shane, my student and now teacher in Milford, came to work today in another Muppets t-shirt. Kindred spirits. 

Fridays are for closing up shop, and the Nature Writing crew secured their final pieces, while the College Essay kids wrote some killer pieces (as they really bonded over 5 days). The Ubuntu crew will be back for another week, and they, too, are making tremendous progress. I continue to realize that center to the CWP truth is a simple fact: I have set out to recreate Brown School in everything I do. It definitely works.

The afternoon slowed down the pace and in honor of National Tequila Day, we ordered from La Cantrina, celebrated Bev's 70th some, and ate burritos. We're having the real party a week from today (which she doesn't want). Leo did present her with the beautiful collection of letters and photographs which will take her several days to get through. It is a stunning book.

My major goal for today is simply to get to Walnut Beach and to plot into sand at high tide, 10 a.m., and to have some of the day in total down time....relaxation.

There were days this week I didn't think I'd make it to the weekend, but somehow I did. It was wonderful to have Dave and Ish to watch Ted Lasso with, and I'm thrilled the humidity broke and we're finally getting June weather.

Yes, there's one more week to go. I'm simply in recovery mode today. I will need a couple days to prepare for the final week. It truly is remarkable work, but it still is hard to realize how much of a one-man show it is for hiring, planning, organizing, and leading with minimal to no support from the University. I remain thankful to K-12 teachers though. They remain the backbone to all good in society. 

I Take the Blessings in the Small Things, Including Yesterday's Ann Burg Visit and the Bravery of Several Young People Sharing Their Writing with Her

I'm fanatical about Ann Burg books, as I think lyrically, but also appreciate historicity. She does her homework, introduces me to ideas and concepts I hadn't known about before, and she simply loves children. We invited her back for our first-ever In All Things - the Nature Writing Lab, and also asked for members of Ubuntu Academy to join us, as they had a fantastic time writing about place in yesterday's workshops. Ann inspired the writers and wondered if they would share theirs, too.

One of the young men from Haiti, only in the country for two years, got his notebook from downstairs and read his writing about a waterfall near his home. It was beautiful...not meant to be poetic, but poetic. Mr. King said afterwards, "I had no idea he had that much language and thinking in him." I always love when young people defy expectations. "I can't believe he read in the front of the room in front of an author and all those other kids."

Wusah. For me, this is the winning. The goal is to have moments like this. 

Meanwhile, I'm not sure what is going on with my joints, especially my hips, knees, ankles, and feet. They seem to be weakening, and the throbbing is really starting to bother me. It's never hurt to walk, but it does now. I'm irked, as not being able to run started to bother me, but now I'm wondering if I won't be able to walk soon. I went in to ask about internal psoriatic arthritis, and the doctor thought I was insane. I left thinking it was in my head, but I'm pretty sure it's not. It really does hurt.

Dave, Ish, and I went to Dockside, since it is their last night in the hood. I've really enjoyed that we watch two or three Ted Lasso episodes each night. It's friendly, fun, smart, therapeutic, humorous, and well-done. I think this is my 5th time going through all the episodes. Ish got me addicted again, and I know I won't stop after they leave. They're heading to Nyack, New York, for the night, but then back to Penn State. 

It's Friday today, which means the campus will be vacated except for the summer camps, which are a combination of enrichment programs like mine, sports, and computer/STEM opportunities. It is something to see all the kids in the cafeteria for lunch. Insane, actually. 

Ah, I'm so looking forward to a quiet, beautiful weekend. The goal is to get my feet in the sand.

Always Thrilled to Host Author Ann Burg at @CWPFairfield. Center of Climate, Coastal, & Marine Studies. IN ALL THINGS - THE NATURE WRITING LAB

We knew that teaching Ann Burg would be brilliant for our first-ever nature writing literacy lab, a new iteration for summer programs at Fairfield University. The Center for Climate, Coastal, and Marine Studies funded ten scholarships, but the program was attractive and another 15 signed up on their own. I knew Dr. Richard Novack was the perfect instructor, and our ongoing partnerships with the National Writing Project's #WRITE OUT helps us to extends all the years we did Reading Landscapes & Writing Nature in collaboration with Weir Farm National Historic Park. Granted, current federal administration defunded programs for National Parks, and so that is no longer an options. 

Yesterday, we asked, "Why aren't we also inviting Ubuntu Academy to the nature writing opportunity?" and we read from Force of Nature, to inspire writing about place and home. It was beautiful to see English-language learning youth sharing photos and words to describe the beauty of their homelands and where they'd go for peace. As Max noted, "Wow. These prompts really have the kids focused in their notebook." Perhaps if we all spent more time writing about location and natural aesthetics, we wouldn't be having these epic storms, fires, and heat. Who needs the planet, though, when you can make money on crypto and with international island hopping to support human sex-trafficking? We are definitely living in a very bizarre time -- one that I hope future historians are able to name. I keep thinking back to the industrial barons of the early 20th century and watching footage of how nothing but making money mattered to them. Humans? Workers? Laborers? Nope. Profit trumped it all. 

I also spent time working on a few college essays, although much care takes place with each one and it's hard to get to all of them (this, of course, is frustrating). I'm always amazed at the stories young people put together as a way to sell their talents to the next phase of their lives. 

I have two young men from Fairfield Prep, and I know it gets a bad reputation from time to time because of the actions of a few. For me, I'm always inspired by how well that school invests in young men to be well-rounded, focused, dedicated, and mature. They impress me and I'm lucky to have two again this year. The kindness instilled in them is transparent. 

I managed to leave my phone on campus, so wasn't able to join Dave for dinner with Val, Jen, and Ish. I did get into my ginger chicken, though, and to do a grocery run. I'm not going to let this be a rant about the self-serving cashiers or the lack of employees (as it's been a theme of my entire week). I will say that drove home wondering, "Have we really become this crass and vapid as a species?" There is no longer ANY customer care. It's like the nation has given up....my opinion, we should be ashamed of ourselves.  There is so much satire needing to be written and demonstrated. 

It was the best of times. It was the worst of times. I most definitely is the most preposterous of times. 

But it's Thursday, and we have much to accomplish today and tomorrow. So back to I-95 I go. 

Wonderful to Have College Essay Back in Our Summer Line Up and to Work with Kim & Dave Again on Super-Achieving with Upper Classmen.

I admitted to Dave post-teaching, yesterday, I could have come directly home and slept until this morning. I was wiped out. We had crazy storms and rains: some of the footage is just wild. Dave saved the afternoon, however, by suggesting pizza for dinner which saved evening energy (even if I crock-potted chicken for another day. Dinner at 5. And then storms moved south (which was lucky, because the ground is saturated with water).

Karal, however, would not go out to pee. She has a thing with rain. 

The college essay crew got going yesterday and it's nice to read the first drafts and to watch so many of our adults mentoring and guiding the drafts forward. I love when they start cranking our material, giving us words to appreciate and mentor them. 

One young man in Ubuntu Academy drafted his essay, too, and I was blow away by the craft, yes, but also the content. Before migrating to the U.S., his father was murdered. They lived in Mexico and he was baking a cake. His father called to say he loved him and the next thing he knew a call came to report his death. He's been in Bridgeport for two years and I couldn't believe his talent with English.

The Nature Writing camp has had some issues with the "nature" part of the writing, but we've made some progress through compromise. A majority want to get outside to think, but there are the resisters (and when kids have cellphones, they call their moms. Their moms drive to campus to get them, but then they change their mind). My words to both parent and kid, "Um, this is a bit much. I'm not sure I'd leave work because of the wild whims and sporadic nature of a kid." I felt bad for the mom, but the girl turned around and seemed to figure out a way to survive in nature camp without any interest in nature. 

C'est la vie. 

And just like that...we have a Wednesday. Hump Day it shall be.

We're Back. HUMAN 2026 (although our theme this year is different). Mr. King Sporting the Back to Ubuntu Academy T-Shirt. And They're Off

And I was out at Michael's at night to get Modge Podge so nature writing can create forest animals from fall materials. I did not, however, get the bug spray. It takes a lot for me to go into a Walmart or Target these days. I hope I will be forgiven.

Day one of the older kids had us singing how much more fun it is to work with older kids. Of course, it never goes completely septic and there's always issues: inappropriate remarks, kids texts with boyfriends not in the program, resistance to trying....mom signed me up....but we get through it. We returned to the Tully for lunch, too, and although they increased the price per kid by $3 this year, the choice/selection/and quality decreased by 150%. They make a killing off the back of summer camps. I hear dinner costs are even worse. They will be hearing from me, but I know it will do no good. This is the way of corporate food chains who have taken over college cafeterias.

The Nature Writing Lab - In All Things had a successful day, and the long hikes Rich took them on received minimal complaints, although two young women complained and sat on benches until they returned form their trek. That's what happens. 

Hoping for a smoother Tuesday (with more sleep) as Sunday night was rough (always is the night before new programs begin). Although I want to be in rooms working with kids, I spend most of my time taking in parental emails and calls, while answering the needs of teachers. When I'm running the teacher institute, too, they have to interrupt that course to have their immediate needs met. 

I'm used to it. What I'm not sure about any more, is how exhausting it all is and if I can keep up. This human is getting old. 

Onward. Week Three of 2026 CWP Summer Programs: Bring on the Older Kids and Lunches in the Tully. We Got This.

I'm so thankful for the team that's been created over the years because I can trust the process of the work as we roll it out. Biggest worry for me today is the buses picking up kids and dropping them off. It's always spectacular when the contract (and the re-verifications) actually mean the buses will show. At times they don't and you wan to pull out your hair.

Sunday was a low-key day as the guests slept in and I had time to write in the morning. I visited Jerry at 10:30 for a haircut, walked home, and then proceeded to game-plan the day. Dave went to get bagels and was readying to play pickle ball at the park with Ish, Ger wanted to walk 20 miles towards the rising sun, and I simply took Karal for our own. Then the World Cup came on and I began to meal prep for the posse. 

We ate in rounds but everyone was fed. Laundry was done. Dishes were put away. 

My day will start early because I never made it to campus this weekend to set up for the three literacy labs operating simultaneously. The good news is that we'll be eating at the Tully and that's a big relief, as we don't need to chase the younger writers around lunch. Older kids tend to recreate on their own time, unless we do team building activities with them. 

I'm excited to see In All Things in action and to meet them, the college essay kids and this year's crop of Ubuntu. Also great to have Val back on Mt. Pleasant, as she came to reunite with Dave and Ish. 

Okay. Another inhalation. We got this. 

Weekend Visitors, Transitions, Movies, World Cup, Good Food, Ice Cream, Naps, Wasp Stings, and Life in General. Mt. Pleasant for the Reporting

I heard from Ger that he was in the U.S. from Sudan for a few months and that he'd be taking the Metro to stay with me for the weekend. Dave and Ishmael also arrived for College Essays and In All Things, the Nature Writing Lab. In short, Karal was in her full glory with all the company and her extra-spastic self. 

I opted to make the Crandall special, triggering Lossine to call me from Syracuse wondering where his bowl was. I spent most of the day shopping and cooking, but only after finishing the summary of the Little Labs that just were. Great week, and the montage is what I'm truly after. 

We were doing the math and it was three years ago when we were all together in May, when Ger spoke at a Writing Our Lives Conference. He also came to Justin's wedding to Juliet (and now they have Juniper...the latest extension of family in Memphis). Nothing sits still.

Missing form this photograph is Ishmael who was playing online game with friends. Karal, of course, was central to the evening driving everyone nuts for attention. 

We had a rainy Saturday a many storms when through. I was thankful for a day of cleaning before welcoming guests and doing the entertaining thing. 

Always love having company and to share Mt. Pleasant with friends. The time flies too fast. Way too fast. And changes come much too quickly. 

Waka Wake Waka. Gotto Channel My Inner Fozzy the Bear Comedian Routines with All Three Walkers at Once. The Magical Minds in Stereo.

Slid into Friday afternoon thirsting for down time. I wanted to mow, and get out of the house. Brought Rico's gift over (random act of kindness), got dinner, and went to bed knowing that there is no need to wake up until I do. 2 weeks of the 6 a.m. alarms has me remembering years of teaching in Kentucky when I was at school by 6:30. I would never want to return to the exhaustion and impossibility of those days.

CWP was also fortunate to get all the Walker Boys at once this year. Their creativity has passed from one kid to the other and I see the youngest pinches it all together. They are three of the most creative, hilarious, free-thinking, happy kids I've ever met. Hilarious, too,  to know they are CWP-Fairfield teacher-leader Dr. Michelle Caruso Walker's kids. For years I wondered how she kept her home contained, because the boys are walking cinematographers and artists. They've been making movies with their toys since I met them. I hope they maintain this comradery throughout their lives. 

I've heard from Ger that he's coming by, and Dave and Ish will be on their way for the literacy labs next week. Will be a busy household and I'll need to spend most of this morning in preparation. Cooking will align with the weather, I suppose, because I'd much rather have a barbecue than have to do indoor cooking...we'll see what comes this way.

Week 2 of 2026 Literacy Labs has come to a close and the next two weeks focus on older writers (which makes for a different pace to the day). For now, however, I'm enjoying the weekend without the ongoing energy, planning, and implementation of young writers, grades 3-5. We made it both weeks, bursting at the seams, with minimal incidents. Ideally, I like to cap at 25, but over-the-weekend and a glitch in the registration system brought 30 to us....somehow we managed, and I'm actually more grateful that the work went forward was minor hiccups. 

But it is tiring. And I'm getting older.

Throwback to Argh-uments in Week 2, Simply to Subdue the Maniac Tendencies of Rock-n-Roll (Super Excited) Little Labbers.

It's normal to feel exhaustion by week 2 of literacy labs, and I'm trying to channel 180 days with this age group as I do every year. 3rd graders are very young, and many of them are pampered (if not babied) at home, so getting them on task can take quite a lot of coaching, guiding, repeating, and supporting. The majority of kids are ambitious and hardworking, but there are always some that need a lot of extra hands. My favorite maneuver is the falling out of a chair as if stretching one's back, with legs sprawling forward and long whines, "This is boring." 

I would find it boring, too, if I was in 3rd grade and had no grasp of my letters or how to formulate words. Most of our kids fill an entire notebook in one week, because all they do is write, but we have those (really only 1 or 2 per year) that don't even know how to hold a pen or pencil. It's hard for me to imagine how they will catch up to their peers. 

We also get amazing kids like Chris (pictured here), who pulls himself to the side so he can work on his writing and not be bothered by the one or two wild-n-crazy kids. A majority get the work done, so they can play later. But there are those that just want to play the entire time. A couple can handle both all day.

And it's summer. The priority is to have fun with writing, and that is what we aim for. We couldn't go outside because of the Canadian smoke (so thick and gross), and we have five too many this week (although it truly has been going remarkably well). It's tight and we feel every minute maneuver of every kid.

And kids cry. Not like the older ones who have tougher skin. Monitoring 4th grade friendship battles between girls can be something. Lucky for me, I have elementary experts on board (and parents) who know the territory much better than me. 

One of the more interesting items of the day was a simple soft, squishy toy toss, that should have been a no-brainer. There were several young men, though, who had no idea how to toss a ball underhanded or how to position their hands to catch a ball. It started me to think that many kids don't have siblings at home and with the onset of technology, they might not know how to play anything like we used to as kids. Tossing a ball, though, seemed like an easy lift. Nope. Not for the few. 

A majority of the kids want us out of the way so they can write. The same kids who can't hold a pen also can't toss a ball. They equate with one another. Also should say 5th graders, as pictured here, are more on the game of writing camp. The 3-5 works, but the differences between 3rd and 5th are remarkable. 

Bless any and all who teach K-3. It's something.  

Keeping the Rockstar Series Going, It Seems a Good Morning to Shout Out to Max & Emmi. They Are Excelling in All Ways. It's a Joy to Watch.

Last year I told them they look like the brother and sister team from Escape from Witch Mountain. With this year's Acoustic Lemonade theme, the two look more like ABBA. Emmi is Danish and Max could definitely pass. I'm saving the kid photos for a video we'll produce for parents on Friday. They are really cool and I don't know what I'm going to do to top it next year. It's been such a fun theme.

Max looked up at me today, too, and said, "Oh, I hit submit for the CT conference in the Fall with you and Emmi." I remember sending him the link and adding my contact name, and I didn't know he was working on it. Another win for him, our team, and CWP if it is accepted. That would be cool.

The Little Labbers worked on dialogue today, and took a tremendous liking to the A-Z challenge to tell a story in dialogue using every letter of the alphabet as the first letter of each line. In fact, in the afternoon when we gave them free writes, they started writing more. Well definitely enough material from this crew.

I'm also thinking about how one of my teachers in our summer programs came up through CWP as a kid. All the teachers have been a student of mine, especially as National Writing Project teacher-fellows. Many of them are now sending their kids to the program. It's wild to see it all (with knowledge it could be even bigger if there was more support, but also with dreams to do less and have more down time for me). I guess that is the trouble with a passion (tied to economics of supporting a site at Fairfield....I have to keep the business running).

It was miserably humid yesterday, and then the Canadian smoke started bellowing in. Definitely felt extra-terrestrial. I came home to watch England flub their lead in the World Cup and was surprised that the humidity broke when I took Karal for a walk. I was only going to go around the block, but the cool air felt so good that I took her on the longer one. The smoke seemed to have lifted, too, although I believe today is suppose to be worse. 

Promoting Adele's Someone Like You as a morning project. We shall see how that goes! Nodding back to last week's piratically argh-umentative workshop for a short bit.

And, of course, traffic.

Get Wigs, He Said. Find Funky Glasses. Buy Those Blow-Up Guitars and Mics. Go Acoustic Lemonade & All the Joy of Summer Programs

It truly is hard to keep up with all going on with CWP literacy labs: author visits, collaborative writing, drafting, editing, sharing, videoing, and finding happiness with writing processes. The Little Labbers couldn't wait any longer and they go into the costumes. It will have to be the daily routine now, because they want to be dressed up for their writing. This is my fault. I take total blame, as I was the first to pull out the toys and begin to improv. 

We had a Blues Fest yesterday morning and every kid had to write a blues song about their vices, including broccoli, parent rules, bed time, music, sisters, and brothers. I modeled mine after I-95 and rainy days a kid's perspective. Some of them stood up and performed the real deal. It was hilarious.

Max and Emmi split the labbers into age groups today and it was interesting to see how they tackled tasks, grade by grade, as kids split into sections. We have Scarlett this year, too, who is able to take the reins from time time.

After the labs, Max received notification of last-minute edits and a proof for the upcoming publication. We stayed after some to work through their new portal. It's always weird when you have to try something new. I came home to watch Spain/France in the World Cup, then took Karal for a short walk (phew...humid), before heading to the grill to prepare more food. I love to cook but it is very cumbersome to justify the time it takes out of the day.

Hard to believe it's already Wednesday, Week II, but we're off for another humpday (and morning traffic).

Week II: Take the Mic - Acoustic Lemonade Seemed Like a Good Week to Order Motley Crüe Wigs and To Rock Out with the Little Writers. I'm All In

The first of them were awaiting me upon wake up. Others arrived in the afternoon. The last of them will come tomorrow. I figured it was a great time to get some rock-n-roll wigs and afros to go with our musical theme of telling stories, writing podcasts, making music, and switching up the narratives in our lives. 

I woke up wanting to go back to bed, but needing the new kids with the rock star motif had me a little excited for the game plan...and we only began to blow up the instruments and microphones. We are going full-blown heavy metal with our props (and prompts) this week. I'm not sure how well Max, Emmi, Genesis, and Barb are doing with my quirky ideas, but they need to be all in. This is the way. 

Today we'll be singing the blues and I'm excited to see what they are able to do with the prompts and models. Truthfully, all they need is find words to rhyme, and the repetition practically creates the song for itself....just follow the patterns. Whether or not they will sing (I did....I-95 Blues and Rainy Day Blues), but only time will tell us if it is well received or not. I'm like the gray and white hair. I used to have brown locks like this, although it turned white once I went short and I have Never had curls.

The red-headed one was perfect for Shane. Kids (they're so silly) we're like, "Wait. Is that your real hair?" - it did look authentic on him. We already gave him a backdrop for his performance. It's going down and I'm singing, "a little nonsense now and then, relished by the wisest men."

Will be interesting to see how the kids take off with this, and I'm even more excited to kick-start possibilities with Ubuntu Academy and to see how they do with the big hair and musical instruments. We shall see, as only time will tell. 

Okay, excited to bring the new materials to the kids today. It's the little things in life that keep me going. 

I'm Taking the Photo from Chitunga and Channeling It for the Rest of My Summer. Sunsets, Adirondack Chairs, & Being Outdoors

Aw, Monday morning again. That means I need to get out of the house as early as I can to see what the traffic insanity will be for the day. Heading to week 2 of the 2026 Young Adult Literacy Labs, continuing both Little Lab for Big Imaginations and Novel Writing II - Plot Matters. We have piqued for number of kids we can serve...rooms are at capacity.

Sunday was spent catching up with Syracuse, answering parental emails, talking with parents, and prepping for the week. I also weed-whacked but the battery died and now the charger isn't recharging the battery. Frustrating. Also grilled and meal-prepped...walked Karal, of course, and then trimmed all the bushes and trees.

I also spent time on campus getting copies, setting up for the new week, adding materials and supplies, and doing another BJs run for snacks.

We'll be altering our lemon theme this week with the little ones so kids who are staying will have an extended experience in week 2: At the Mic: Making Acoustic Lemonade. I went a little overboard with props for the week. Rocker wigs should be here by tomorrow.

Chitunga sent this photo from Iowa and I saved it as a reminder to channel the calm and beauty in the world as I move throughout the chaos of summer programs. The only thing missing from the photo is water, which is a must for my calm....still, beautiful photo. 

Ai Ai Ai.....wasn't it just the beginning of the weekend? Back at it once more....and he's off.

I Hear You're Making Buttermilk Chicken (an Indian Dish) and I Respond, I'll Match You with Bombay Potato Aloo. Let's Wreck These Stomachs.

Actually, we all went neutral with the spices. Only a minor burn. Great meal with rice, onions, potatoes, naan bread, baklava, and flavors to watch England defeat Norway in the World Cup. I'm always for the underdog but England deserve this, especially with Bellingham. The better team one.

I spent most of the day closing out the summer programs that just were, and keeping contact with parents saying goodbye and parents coming in. I'm thankful for the Little Lab team: Max, Emmi, Scarlett, and Genesis, who were on top of the writing and videotaping all week, including the commercials the little labbers wrote. It's tedious work, but pays off in the end. By the time I finished with that, I needed to get outside for a walk. It was one of those day with all the seasons in one. The humidity couldn't figure out what it wanted to be.

I think the biggest accomplishment of the day, however, was actually grocery shopping for my house. I've been buying for the summer programs and haven't wrapped my head around ordering for my house, too. That is why I attempted the Potato Aloo, to see if I could match the spices I always love. Naan and Indian Butter Chicken, coupled with the potatoes, are beyond favorable. We did well. I will give myself a B/B+ for the first time. 

I believe today is a repetition of yesterday in terms of weather. I also know it is warming up this week which is always a joy (sarcasm...I like the cooler temperatures). I need to grill and meal prep for five days. I need to repot indoor plants with fresher soil. I need to clean the garage. 

So, off I go.

When Life Gives Us Lemons, Crandall Looks for Lemon Ice to Share with Others. 1st Week of 2026 Literacy Labs (Check)

I am simply happy to be waking up on a Saturday, without anything to do until 5 p.m. (World Cup game). I definitely have slept less this week, simply in anticipation of the work the next day. I always want the best experiences for students, teachers, and families.

While the older kids had fancier ice cream, I went with our week's theme and gave them Lemon Ice. Both groups presented material and celebrated their accomplishments. 

The day ended, we cleaned, I gave Mateo a ride home, and then I went Pam's with leftover pizza, so I could get Karal out of the house. She loves any chance she can get to be out of the house...she hates being excluded.

Came home. Chitunga called and we caught up, and I vegged out. I plan on vegging more today. Perhaps a little weed-whacking (if it's not raining) and that's about it. I need to clear my head so when Sunday rolls around I can think about all needing to be done for Monday.

Luigi's does a nice lemon ice, but once you've had Micalizzi's, it's hard to have anything as delicious (and it's a local thing). Laughing. They were on sale at Stop-n-Shop and worked just fine.

Sliding into TGIF with High Five to My Teachers for a Fantastic First Week of Developing Character and Using Our Imaginations.

It was another productive day with art museums, adaptive potato-survival game, and author guest Patricia Park. I laughed when I stopped by the novel lab post their field work and found this very Grannie Annie-like creation upon the table. Here's to great characters.

We also took the littles to the Walsh Gallery and I have to say 25 3rd-5th graders did much better than I anticipated they would, although 15 minutes was about as long as they could go before wanting it to end.

Highlight, too, was hearing from author Patricia Park, as we've been using Ambrosia Lee Drops the Mic with the middle and high school kids. The students kept her an hour with their questions, but they were thoughtful. Hard for me not continue once it ended. Their questions and her responses got me thinking about many things. I also heard from Ger today, as he's back in New York. He shared what's going on in Sudan and it is not good - there should be tremendous humanitarian concern for the ways Salva Kiir is killing Dinka people in Akobo. The pictures he shared were some of the most gruesome photos I've ever witnessed. 

By the time I got home, I realized I needed to close my eyes. Although I didn't fall into a deep sleep, I did keep them closed for two hours while I listened to the World Cup game. Of course, Karal needed to lay on my head and begged to go for a walk throughout those two hours.

We'll be the only program in DSB tomorrow, as the University sends staff home at noon, but most choose to work their morning shift from home. In other words, it will be quiet.

I am, however, looking forward to the weekend...it's always nice NOT to have to report anywhere.

After Work Mini-Renunion Party (& Throwback) at Walnut Creamery in Milford. A Wonderful 15 It's Been.

Wednesday was productive at CWP: from the writing, to the workshops, to the games, to the humor, to working through first drafts. Emily and her son, Theo, had a date with Walnut Creamery. Tebben joined us and I was like, "Holy 2014, Batman." They were students of CWP, became workers of CWP, and one of them now teaches For CWP in the summers. It's wild. So much life happens when you get older, and I feel as if I freeze my students at the age of when I had them.

And there's Theo, of course, who will one day be a student of our labs. Crazy train.

Karal and I got a long evening walk in, and I mowed the lawn in anticipation of three days of rain ahead. 

Ah, I somehow found myself watching Worst Neighbors Ever on Netflix. The stories are crazy-crazy, and the way it is presented is wonky, but somehow I'm captivated. I think it is because the stories are just too wild to actually believe, but they're all true stories. I recommend it. It's very alluring. 

Also got to see Jessica at a campus event. Although she no longer teaches for CWP, her fingerprints are on everything we do. It always brings it back to how time flies as fast as it does. It weirds me out at times. 

Day 4, Week One today. Inhale. Exhale.

Day 3 of Week 1: Taking Advantage of the Walsh Art Gallery at the Quick Center, to Inspire New Ways of Thinking About Character and Storytelling

I love the ways CWP's stellar teacher-leaders navigate campus space to bring students the best we have to offer. It's always wonderful, too, when the curators of the art exhibits have material that speaks to the summer programs. This year's For Which It Stands was perfectly operational for all our programs, and added a nice flare, as this week's Novel Writing I - Character Matters reported to me. I was busy doing my pirate argh-u-ment exercises with Little Labbers when the photos started coming my way. It quickly inspired me to think, "Wait...all our programs should visit."

We had another nice day of cool air, which was even better when I finally walked Karal at 6 p.m. (needed to clean up after kids, deal with a menacing kid who locked his cellphone in a locker and couldn't remember the digital code he put in to charge it....good news is that campus ITS is used to college kids being idiots, too, so they solved the issue quickly (with angry mom in tow wondering why he'd do something so silly).

Youth is wasted on the young. 

Today will be some dialogue exercises with older kids and much conferencing to see where everyone is with their writing. All hands will be on deck for the little kids to type Thursday/Friday. I also have the first mute kid who, I realize, has also been silent on the page. His parents simply want him to have the social experience, and he's come a long way. Yesterday, he nodded his head that he would talk to his friend he made and tell him what he wants to be written, and that I can be in the room with them to put it to page. We'll see how this goes. I had a 9th grader once why had dysgraphia and that's how we use to operate. He'd kvetch with friends and I would record. The issue was not with his intelligence....it was in finding the way for him to communicate in a way that works for him.

Finally, years ago I wrote an 'argh'ument song to the tune of Let It Snow. Yesterday, Scarlett (an intern I hired for the summer who is a voice major at Dickinson) led the kids in a rendition of the song. It was amazing. I'm going to get her to record it for me! I'd love to make a video of the kids and their argumentative essays with her singing as part of the show!

Onward. Time to make the donuts.

Shhhh. Knock on Wood. Day One of Year 13 of Young Adult Literacy Labs (the 1st 100) Went Swimmingly Well. So Much Rain, Though. So Much Rain.

Amazing how we went from Amazon heat to Noah's Arc downpours. Driving home from the 1st day was almost like skipping across the lake. So much water dropped very quickly. But I came home and used the rain as an excuse not to go to the grocery store. I'll likely regret that when I wake up a little more rested, but the thought of getting wet and cold before going to bed did not appeal to me much.

The kids were oriented to programs, and all were engaged from start to finish. I have one couple who signed their kid up for the program and who chose to do their vacation in the area so he could attend. They said they were reading about the work (where? I don't know) and they can't believe I do so much for young writers in southern Connecticut. The kicker is that they're both economists at Northeastern in Boston. Totally different field and state. Yet, here they are. I will never know how they find us, other than she said she contacted me last summer about possibility having her kid attend. He was great. 

I also love to see the teachers come into their own, leading with the magic of great teaching, and truly caring about what the kids put to paper. The other fascinating part is how devoted and dedicated all the kids are to their writing. We definitely get the kids who would like spend the day writing with or without us....it's just with us they are in the company of others.

I'll be doing an Argh-ument workshop with the little kids today, which always makes me happy, because it's one of those workshops where you see lightbulbs going off and kids WANTING to put their pen to page. Yesterday, I told the story of Sisyphus, and how he was cursed to bring a lemon to the mountain top only to see it fall again. This 9 year old goes, "Don't you mean boulder," and I'm like, "No. I said lemon. When life gives us lemons..." 

Well, they got it from day one. We make lemonade..

And we do need to make lemonade It's a no brainer.

Bring On Four Weeks of Lemon Jokes, Puns, Lemonade, Lemon Stories, & Writing for "When Life Brings Us Lemons" - We Kick Off this Morning.

Yes, the humidity dropped, but I was rather sweaty moving over 250 books to Dolan, art supplies, another 250 writers' notebooks, and all summer material. It took one trip from my house (unloaded) and another three trips from my office. Let's just say I've been chiseling away at the supplies for months because, by now, I realize it's a one-man operation in the summer and the likelihood to get help from my school has less than a zero chance. By now, I plan backwards for all of this, but it's all good. It only took about five hours and I've mastered the use of using a table with wheels. It makes the whole process a lot easier because it rolls just fine. 

We'll be in two labs this week: Little Lab for Big Imaginations I and Novel Writing - Character Matters. Obviously we're featuring  The Sea of Lemon Trees across programs, but we're also using Poetry Comics, Ambrosia Lee Drops the Mic, and Force of Nature...simply because they will give us much bang for our buck. Amazing books this year and I say it's definitely intentional on the 13th iteration (I need to write all of this up...I say it every year). 

Max, Emmi, and I when out to Sweet Basil for dinner. As soon as Max suggested Thai, I knew I was on board. I wanted Pad Thai, and even though I planned to save half for lunch today, I couldn't resist simply pigging out at the restaurant. 

They're calling for pouring rain, so it will be an interesting morning getting everyone settled into the right locations. I just hope it isn't a downpour. Off I go...wish us luck!

First Cosmos Bloom of Summer...Always a Reason to Celebrate, Especially When They Reseed Themselves & Going the Party on the 4th.

Hamburgers and hotdogs yesterday. Corn on the cob. Blueberry & raspberry cobbler. A couple more Wold Cup games. A drenching hike. Rearrangement of furniture. Visit with Beth and Dan, followed by dinner with Leo, Bev, and Pam. I love summer eating, but I'm stuffed. I laughed, too, because when we left the beach everyone was pouring in for fireworks: kids, lawn chairs, coolers, and sparklers. I'm like, "Do these people not know that severe thunderstorms are 7 minutes away?"

I guess they didn't. By the time I got home the skies opened up, the winds were crazy, and the booms and lights of fireworks were replaced by the storm. We need the rain. I welcome that. I also have invited the cooler temperatures, too, to return. It looks like they will be with us for a few weeks.

When I stated my day, I noticed the first cosmo bud looked like it wanted to kick open. By the time I left for the afternoon to feed others, she was like, "Yo, world. I am here." I love the colors they get...almost doesn't seem real.

Today will be full-fledged physical Crandall, as all rooms need to be set up for the summer programs. Lord knows Monday is crazy enough welcoming the kids. The first days are the hardest days.

I had to laugh last night because during the storms, the front door flew open and Karal jumped. Instead of barking, she flew into my hip and remained there the entire night. I would have thought she'd attack in such a situation. Nope. She came to me for safety and comfort. It was somewhat comical. 

Alright. Time for Sunday on campus. Have a great 3rd-day of the holiday.

Another Great Meal: First Attempt at Mt. Pleasant Mussels and Grilled Salmon for a World Cup Friday Night Before the 4th.

I'm taking advantage of having cooking time and trying my hands at new goods. I've been in love with eating mussels out and I wanted to try it on my own, not believing how cheap they are to buy. The heavy cream and leeks were more expensive than they were. They were a hit, but I didn't quite get the flavors that Kathy got on her back porch, nor what they do in restaurants. I think the recipe I followed was short on the liquids, so the sauce wasn't as abundant and flavorful. 

I didn't take Karal for a hike, but I got my own in early and I was drenched. It was reading 103 degrees without the heat index. Even at 10 p.m. it was 90 degrees. Hello, Kentucky.

You have to give it up to Argentina, too, even though cheering on Cabo Verde was fun. They hung in there. They gave all their heart. There is no shame, especially against Messi and his team. They powerhouse at every second (I don't know where they get the energy and perseverance from).

I believe storms will come through this evening, as the high temperatures for the week ahead are a good 20 degrees cooler. Something has to disrupt this heat run. I keep watering the pots, but they are fighting the elements to stay hydrated. It's brutal, especially for those plants in the direct light all day.

Forecast for today is Hoffman hotdogs. We shall see. I just want it to cool down, but if I'm 2/2 on the grill, I might as well make 3/3. 250 years ago, the narrative out of Great Britain was handed for the U.S.A. to begin their version of the story. Of course, that it a tale, too, that differs from the Vikings who came before them and the indigenous people who were barbarically pushed to the side. I still like to believe in the democracy I learned throughout my schooling and interactions with the diversity of the nation. It's been a 180 from that understanding in the last several years, but I'm still hopeful the vision for what this day is supposed to stand for will return to the discourses of the nation.

And Thus Beginneth a Long Holiday Weekend, Even with the Atrocious Heat & the Busiest Time of the Year Around the Corner

I readied the classrooms for our arrival. I also sorted supplies in my office and got all materials ready to be transported. I wish I got it all done yesterday, but with the temperatures the way they are I figured it was best to wait until it breaks this Sunday. We're getting there.

I came home and got more materials together, worked on writing projects, and then decided I was going to cook on the grill. I bought goods for tomorrow, too, but last night I barbecued chicken and then made a lemon, pea, parmesan summer pasta salad. Pam made an Asian salad, and all together left the best tastes in the mouth. The 30-minute pasta salad was as easy as it claimed to be, and the flavors simply popped.

Beth and Dan invited me over for evening fireworks, as it was Stratford's turn and they live on the marsh side of the Housatonic estuary. Across the way from them is the beaches of Stratford, so they have a great yard to get a fantastic view, but you don't get all the noise and crowds. It was nirvana.

At one point, my colleague Michael said he wanted to get a good photo of his kids, but before he did, he sat down, and I was able to get a photo of him, too. The bugs were absurd, but the company was fantastic. Obviously, the night sky was also lit it up in celebration of 250 years (a short time) of this American story we're telling ourselves (with numerous interpretations of how it is supposed to be). 

Yes, the heat was bad. I was drenched from grilling, and I didn't get Karal out for a walk...too cruel. She played some in the backyard, but the heat got to her quick and she wanted back inside. Two more days of it, and hopefully it disappears for a while. 

Well, There's One Way to Save a Penny. No Summer Uniforms for Workers. But When Life Gives You Lemons, Well...

Truth is, I have t-shirts and hats for the teachers this summer to accompany the theme When Life Gives Us Lemons. We hope to carry forward writing, where students think about making the best out of sometimes horrible moments or times. I ironed on the lemons, which gave me an excuse to watch afternoon World Cup games. I also loaded up tubs we'll need on campus, as well as books that go along with the theme. It also goes with The Sea of Lemons, which were' using with older kids to inspire conversations and to model writing. 

I wish I could say I did much outside the house, but I'm already being dramatic about the temperatures. I was back from a walk this morning by 9 and said that was enough for me. Of course, today and tomorrow are supposed to me much, much worse. And I have this morning to start loading the car and moving items across campus. I will be wearing bandanas to soak up the sweat.

Also worked some on a grant and worked on a dossier review some more. But other than that, it was a mental day of online work with World Cup in the background....except for when I ironed patches onto hats (which was boring....30 seconds each side, but it felt like forever). 

Okay, let me exit and enter the sauna. It is time. 

I'm Guessing the Sailors are Delighted by Heat Indexes of 110 Degrees! At Least That's What the Pink Skies Said Last Night.

Rich, Shane, and I met for summer planning last night for dinner at Dockside. It will be fun to work with the two of them this summer, as I think they will find themselves compatible as co-teachers. It's our first nature writing lab for kids (although we've held teacher workshops on the environment for several years). After we met, we walked out into the parking lot to see the sky wildly delighted, I guess, for the heat wave that cometh beginning today.

Also unpacked orders for summer on campus and at home, as everything seemed to arrive on the same day. We are good to go for summer. Just need to add kids.

Finally, met with students I'm doing independent studies with and set a plan of action for summer. They are on their way for reading, thinking, and writing.

Oh, and I have decided the Pay-by-Tolls are a scam. Twice now, I've gotten additional $4 bills to be paid online. I have money in the account, so why doesn't it deduct. There are several of these tolls and the charge me. Well, it turns out that some tolls don't work with the tolling system. That, and even if my license has been OAKPF7 for 15 years with no issues, the Mass Turnpike says that particular toll is reading my license as 0AKPF7. The 'oh' is a 'zero' for that toll, so they wanted me to switch the license online to match their one toll. I told them, if I do that, then all the other tolls are going to be after me because they've been find with that 'O' - Only Attallah Knows Poetry Flows 7 days a wee. The woman wanted to argue with me and I couldn't believe (a) we were having the conversation we were (after waiting for customer service for over an hour and (b) the lady was being obstinate that she sees a 'zero' and not an 'O', and I'm like, "I've been doing this trip for 15 years (3 times a year). The issue just began this spring." 

Yeah, AI is a good thing. Remove humans so they never have a chance of being, well, humane.

Well, hello, July. that came quick.