Kindness Makes the Best First Day Ever

Some of the most amazing teachers don’t ever get to stand up in front of the class. They don’t get to use the staff lounge or open gifts of appreciation at the end of the year. They are teachers who masquerade as students who have special needs. Dawn Bolstad is passionate about working with students

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ISO Tattoo Artists

Once again breast cancer is giving me the opportunity to experience something I never really knew I needed to experience. This time, I’m researching tattoo parlors. Are they even called “parlors” anymore? I have clearly watched too many movies, because when I think of a place that does tattoos, I think of a dimly lit,

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A Houseful of Bobcats

I’m terrified to have large groups of people in my house. Small groups are fine, but a guest list over six gives me the cold sweats. I love people, but I love them more one-on-one. I don’t worry about the prep work. The cooking, cleaning, that’s all fine. I make the kids do it. Joke!

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Kindness Eases Growing Pains

My little girl’s shoulders slumped as she got in the minivan. “The whole team was invited, Mom. I was the only one not included.” Seventh grade is hard. I know, I did it once. I’d go from elation to desperation and back again in five minutes flat. My poor parents. Later that night, with Jordan’s

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THINK about it

I know I’m supposed to keep my eyes on today, but I’m just so excited for tomorrow I can hardly stand it. Tomorrow I’m going back to school! Elementary school! The principal is allowing me to speak to all of the students (kindergarten through sixth grade) at the all-school morning meeting. What a perfect place

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He Loves Them More

My niece called me from college last night. She’s a freshman and wanted to Facetime to show me her new dorm. She is beyond excited, but I wasn’t shocked when she admitted there were some tears as she moved into her new home. Kate called them happy tears. “I’m just so excited, Aunt Nicki!” She

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Why I Agree to Be Uncomfortable for Kindness

Why do I do this to myself? I could have said no. Why didn’t I say no? They’re going to eat me alive! My introverted self is verbally attacking the ambitious dynamo part of my personality. You see, go-getter me signed up for something that is now making me a little sick to my stomach.

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