My current favorite children's book is The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson.  I love this book because it emphasizes the power of being brave to tell our unique stories.  The first day of school is The Day We Begin to create our classroom community and see the beauty of connection, understanding, and compassion towards others' perspectives and experiences.   When I am not teaching, I love to spend my spare time reading, traveling, playing board games, exploring nature, and enjoying my friends and family. I have two cats and two kids who are both Allen Eagles.