Many heartfelt thanks to everyone. I echo the sentiments of these last blogs. Mindy, I too have never been so anxious to read books. Merrilee, the most compassionate person I have ever met, I also feel this class has changed my life. Kris, I wish my algebra teachers had been wise enough to include writing to learn. It was great getting to know you (and your horses), keep on pacing! Missy, thanks for being such an inspiration. You will overcome the shortsightedness of administrators that mistake all change as good. Patti, I am so glad you are you, (even if you are the teacher's pet)! Don't forget to send me Jodi's email address. Bev and Kathy, I look forward to collaborating with you at H.H., I have a whole new respect for you as teachers and now understand why our school is so successful, despite the hurdles and pitfalls of senseless mandates. Lois, it has been my honor to get to know you. I am in awe of your fortitude and deeply admire your teaching expertise and compassion. Don't ever retire! Marlene, you are the voice for your school, so knowledgeable and articulate in matters of education. I know your students need you in the classroom but our profession needs more brilliant, caring teachers like you to be a catalyst for change-no matter where that takes you. Speaking of educational reform and matters of job security, Matt, I am so glad we have strong minded and intellectual union leaders like you. I will definitely get more involved as I have "caught" your passion. Just remember to stay positive and united we will grow stronger. Jayne, you brought so much insight and fun to the mix. I will eternally smile and say "how nice" and always think of you and your passion for books and teaching. Talinn and Deb, thanks for all your hard work, especially the behind the scenes "stuff" that enabled this experience to go smoothly for us. Don, I wish I could have had a high school teacher as dynamic as you-of course with your influence I would probably be an English teacher now with lots of papers to grade! :) Sue, I loved your personal essay! The letter format was perfectly riveting and I know your father IS proud. Stop by for coffee, I only live one half mile from Hocking College. Chris, what can I say, you are a writer! I want credit for "listening out the corner of my ear" when you get published :), and I am hoping we can also collaborate more this year at Hocking. Can't wait to go to our writing workshop in New York. Lastly but in no way least, Sherri, you rock!!!! Sorry, but your genius leaves me at a loss for words. I know we will stay in touch, in the mean time keep "walking" that beagle even if he tries to pull your arms off! Simply,
THANKS, for taking on the writing project and bringing this much needed and appreciated venue to we appalachian-ites (more formal term for hillbilly or hillbetty-got to be politically correct here) You go cowgirl! I hope to see you in in your class in September. Many, many thanks to all. May God bless.
Jackie
