Next Project: Cherry Hand Pies
Photo by Amy LV
Students - Last week when my husband and I were driving home from the Rochester, NY Public Market, he pulled the car over and said, "Let's stop at this roadside stand. I've always wanted to stop here." Lo and behold...hand pies! There were all kinds of goodies from vegetables to fruits to jams to cookies and big pies and small hand pies baked by the Amish. We each got a glazed blackberry hand pie, and it was one of the best things I have ever eaten. I could not stop talking about all of the times I have loved hand pies (those peach hand pies at a soccer game made by Stacey's mom!) and all of the times I have vowed to try making them. Well, I'm making them now. Above you can see the start of my first attempt. And I'll post a picture of the finish later.
Sometimes a moment is so surprisingly sweet that it is better than anything you could plan or imagine, the best kind of prize. Today's memory is sweet for me in many ways. In the pie way, of course, but also in the surprise way. And by writing about it today, I am able to enjoy it yet again...and to share it with you too. I do wish that I could finish baking these hand pies here and pass them out through the screen. Please know that I would if I could.
This summer, I recommend paying close attention to small events that bring you unexpected joy. Simple things that when given attention become big things. Then, write about one of these so that you can live it again and again. And others can too. If a memory is tapping at your memory door now, go ahead and write about that one. A prize you didn't know you could win.
If we look, we can find a small prize in every day. Let's do that looking.
And now...a Poetry Peek!
Today I am grateful to welcome Teacher Raina Mehlman and her second grade poets from Seely Place Elementary School in Edgemont, NY. For the past several years, I have been fortunate enough to write ekphrastic (poems inspired by art) with the second graders at Seely Place, and I am honored to host these thoughtful poems today. Please notice the students' writing choices around point of view, line breaks, and wordplay. These poems grew from students' impressions and imaginings as they each studied one art postcard (chosen from hundreds) and immersed themselves in a new world.
Click the Lower Right to Enlarge Slideshow
It is wise to consider that art inspires art. So if you are not sure what to write or draw or sing today, follow the lead of these students. Look at art. Listen to music. Read someone else's words. And you, too, will take a journey. Perhaps one of these poems will inspire one of your own. Thank you again, Raina and poets.
Jan is hosting today's Poetry Friday roundup over at Bookseedstudio with a beautiful photograph taken by her daughter and a life-reminder quote. Each Poetry Friday, all are invited to share poems, poem books, poetry ideas, and friendship in this open and welcoming poetry community.
I wish you a snippet of wonderful surprise this week. Be open enough to let it find you.
xo,
a.
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