Goodbye to an Old Friend

That's author Beth Finke and her seeing-eye dog, Hanni, during a guest reader visit to Mr. Groves' class at Faraday last year.

It's hard to believe that it's been three years since I met Beth and the fabulous Hanni at a Barnes and Noble book signing. And even harder to believe that Hanni is now retired. We're so grateful to Beth for sharing Hanni with the SitStayRead students and we wish her lots of fun times and good belly rubs during her retirement.

You can read more about Hanni's latest life phase on Beth's blog post. And we'll be sure to keep you posted on the new canine partner in Beth's life. Wishing all the best to Hanni, Beth, and the new addition.

What Are You Thankful For?

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Of course food is a big part of the reason--turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie. YUM! But I also like the reminder to be thankful.

Today I am so thankful for the time I get to spend with the wonderful SitStayRead students, volunteers and dogs.

Usually I'm in the office, but last week Bandit and I were last minute subs at Lowell School and got to read with Leonardo (seen here) and his classmates in Ms. Cavallery's room. As you can tell from that big smile, we had a great time.

Then today I helped out at Hendricks Academy--our very first SSR school. I always love going back there and it was a joy to see the excitement of the kids as they read with the dogs and volunteers. There was a substitute teacher today and she went out of her way to tell us how impressed she was with the session saying, "You really keep the kids engaged."

Many thanks to everyone who makes SSR possible. I hope you have a very happy Thanksgiving. I'll be thinking of you tomorrow.