Anchored at Sunrise: Why Some Routines Are Non-Negotiable

Eight weeks after submitting my manuscript, facing rejections and a complete rebrand of my book, I'm discovering that everyone wants flexibility - my principal, the publishing world, life itself. But I won't skip my sunrise ritual. Because flexibility without foundation isn't resilience; it's just falling.

How New Teacher Orientation Opened My Eyes to Who I Really Am

They handed us sunglasses as a symbol of our bright future, but the real vision came from seeing myself through my colleagues' eyes. Sometimes strangers become mirrors.

The Wizard of Oz Skit That Taught Me About Saying Goodbye

Three weeks after getting engaged, I was directing a faculty skit instead of planning my wedding. Here's what playing Dorothy taught me about home, community, and letting go.

Single Teacher Falls for Autumn Instead of Prince Charming: Writing My Own Part II

My tenth graders studied fairy tale archetypes today. The damsel needs rescuing; the hero needs a quest. But I mow my own lawn and fix my own electrical sockets. Maybe my Part II is about falling in love with fall instead of falling for a fantasy.