This prompt- albeit I am quite a few days late… Feels serendipitous. So I’ll take it as a sign to give an update on my “transformation” and pay homage to some “notable” experiences.

It has been 4.5 months since altering my life journey and I honestly wouldn’t have it any other way. There’s been highs, lows, bumps bruises and obstacles but it’s life AND change! What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger right?

LETS CELEBRATE!

Walking Wednesday becomes available! Such a momentous feeling and experience. Seeing my book come to life and be a real holdable book is so surreal.

First Sales of Walking Wednesday! Pretty sure I shed literal tears. Instantly felt gratitude and genuine joy for the first time in a long while. Each sale and read aloud are a reminder of the difference I am making for children, teachers, and the early childhood community… a huge part of my longtime and ultimate goals!

Reading Walking Wednesday to classrooms- First I have to give huge shout outs to Ann Dingens, Kelsey Wilson, Glenda Doty, Kayla Wilson, Kia Johnson, Abbey Matthiessen, Lynn Sherwood, Erica Colon, Sarah Dickinson, Julie Davis and Torri Chambers- even though you may never see this…. Not only did you allow me into your space in the first place (not an easy thing for early childhood classrooms) but you allowed me to read my book and explore the possibilities of my resources, even if it didn’t fit with your current plans. Your flexibility is greatly appreciated more than you will ever know…. Every classroom I have read to has had their own experience led by their inspiration and desire to create. I’ve watched learning and transformation happen right in front of my eyes that came from reading Walking Wednesday and I have to admit it is a pretty AWESOME feeling.

Collaboration, Inspiration, Creation– These opportunities allowed me to fully participate in Early Childhood in a way I hadn’t in a VERY long time. They inspired motivated and encouraged me to branch out and try some different methods of connection with children, educators, advocates, parents, play groups and whoever else may benefit from my work!

Mentality, Mindset, Personal Growth- All this to say I personally have grown so much over the past few months. After a lot of reflection I have come to realize that I have held myself back because I was so focused on personal growth and digging myself out of the hole I was in. This whole journey started because of where I was mentally and I can officially say I have come out stronger in so many ways. I have been able to change my outlook and expectations to fit with where I am (hard as it may be!). I have come to appreciate the moments I have been given to share opportunities for literacy appreciation, growth and enjoyment and not worry so much about the “numbers” of it all. The sales, the money the “limitations” are no longer at the forefront and I am able to see new paths and doors opening.

So many “notable” experiences, conversations, and little moments have taken place in my day to day. The change in my routine is what led to not only these experiences happening but MY OWN willingness and strength to make them happen AND me being able to fully and willingly participate as well. You may not know but this in itself is such a huge sign of my growth and I am thrilled. I cannot wait to see where I go from here but the thoughts are coming, plans are in the works, and the visions are becoming clearer.

Thanks so much to everyone that has been a part of this journey. Onward and Forward!