I ended my first day back to teaching yesterday feeling like a boss. Rather, like a dumb boss.
Teaching Tuesday pt.1

I ended my first day back to teaching yesterday feeling like a boss. Rather, like a dumb boss.
These principles that have been so prevalent in years past, are almost non-existent this year due to how differently school and our classroom function this year. This is a realization I didn’t make until very recently and now vow to change for the remainder of our time together. We can no longer gather and drum (and really get close and talk) the way we would have in the past, but on this last day of Kwanzaa that recognizes Imani (faith), I have faith that I will ensure my students are not denied these foundational principles of being (specifically as Black learners but as members of humanity as well), independently and together as a community.
They said 2020 was the year of vision, clarity and focus. They were right, and for this, on the 2nd last day of the year I’m grateful. I give thanks for 2020 allowing me to clearly see my Nia, my purpose. I know why I’m here, I know what I’ve got to do and I continue to be excited for my journey.
A dear friend who I don’t think I’ve seen all year long just dropped off a Christmas gift for me. In the gift was a handwritten note that warmed my heart. Despite the chaos of the year, thoughtful actions and gestures keep making their way to me. On this 3rd last day of 2020 I give thanks for thoughtful gifts. I’ve received all year long and I’m grateful.
Grace has been a common theme for me this year. Mostly in terms of me thinking I didn’t have enough. Grace kept popping up in podcasts I’d listen to, books I was reading, shows I was watching and conversations with friends.
Consistency is hard for me. But on this 6th last day of 2020 I give thanks for my consistent efforts to be consistent. It’s been a recurring theme for me this year; trying to form and maintain healthy habits for self. And of course, it hasn’t been easy. But as the year has progressed, I’ve gotten better and any progress no matter how small must be lauded.
One of the highlights of the 2019-2020 school year was being accepted into a leadership program with my teacher’s union for BIPoC (Black, Indigenous, people of colour) women in Ontario. Only 20 women are accepted for the program each year and I’d applied once or twice in the past, but wasn’t successful. Finally, it was my turn, my time. Or so I thought.
Today is the last day of school before the break. Baby boy had to isolate for 10 days due to cold symptoms which means mama's gotta stay home. Since I've been away from my students all week, I decided to do a quick google meet with them during snack time. I'm glad I did because after the break we may be under a full lockdown again. Likely, if last spring is any indication, I won't see many of my students faces again. Not for a while, anyway.
Lately, baby boy and I have added a four minute yoga session by Moovlee Monkey to his bedtime routine. Sometimes I’m the only one doing it, but I’m not complaining. More often than not, it’s the only movement my body does for the day, and it feels so good. It’s amazing what goodness can be packed into four minutes.
I’ve always loved the moon. As I age, my love for the moon increases, especially as I watch my little guys fascination grow.