There Is Nothing Better Than the Smile of a Published Writer When They Receive Their First Publication (Thankful to @mcwalker39 for Sharing)

Mom's a writer and @writingproject educator (and in some odd way, she brings a bloodline to Dr. Kristen Turner who I adore). (Does that make us cousins or siblings?). And then I learn that his mom taught his summer teacher when she was in 9th grade. Either way, last summer, the amazing Sammy joined Little Labs for Big Imaginations to write under the leadership of Jessica Baldizon, Abu Bility, and Stefania Vendrella. I was working with teachers, and only heard from Abu about the amazing work being accomplished in our program for 3rd-5th grade writers as we returned home every night. 

Then, when all the final products were sent to me, I was fortunate to bring the hard work to a close, publishing the young people and the teachers during the 10th edition of POW! Power of Words. I am forever grateful to the U.S. Postal System for their quick deliveries. It took less than 24 hours to get into the homes of some of our students. Amazing. 240 pages of well-crafted bliss!

You see that bookshelf behind Sammy. Well, there's a special place for his copy of POW! for it to be placed (and join his mother's work from a few years ago). Or if he doesn't want it there, he can place it on his personal bookshelf with all the wonderful books he accumulates as a reader and writer.

All of us who teach, who work with young people, and are always fascinated with writing processes adore moment like this. We understand the power of words and the importance of bringing final products to publication. The culmination is what makes it special --- having a book delivered...well, that's just extra-special.

Shoot...every journal article, book chapter, blog, poem, or video that comes out to celebrate CWP work and share m scholarship makes me happy dance around the kitchen. Perhaps I'll get Sammy's happy dance, too, especially when he shares his writing with this year's teacher.

I get it, Sammy. That is a smile of accomplishment and pride - one I hope you get addicted to, share with others, and help to spread the word about the importance of written communication. You are a published writer now and you should tell every one. 

It's all of us together.

You, your incredible mom, and all the wonderful people you've yet to meet.