Inspired Watching the Morning News: Adam Grant

How often can you say that you felt inspired by something you saw on the news? It seems that happens less and less often these days. In fact, that’s part of the reason I started writing this blog. I wanted to create content that was positive, helpful, and inspiring. But earlier this week, I was inspired by the morning news. Actually, it was the Today Show, which you could argue is not strictly a news program. But it does cover its share of sadness, contentions, and destruction. My posts are often inspired by something I read or hear in passing Read More

If You Can Read This, Thank Your Teachers

May 8 is National Teacher Day. It’s a day to celebrate, give thanks for, and acknowledge the teachers in our lives. Our school celebrates teachers all week long. Personally, one day or even one week doesn’t seem like enough. Teachers do so much for our kids, our families, and our communities. Too often, they are given too little pay, too little credit, and too little thanks. In addition, they are frequently asked to take on issues and responsibilities way beyond their job descriptions. Nevertheless, teachers continue to work hard, champion our children, and help build and strengthen our communities.   Read More

Love On a Leash: My Rescue Dogs

I love my rescue dogs! Sure, they are messy and needy. Yes, their breath could smell better and their idea of personal space is ridiculous. But they are the most loving creatures and I get to share every day with them. They are happy to see me no matter what. They forgive my mistakes (oops! was that your tail?) and never seem to notice if I’m having a bad hair day. I am grateful to have these loving creatures in my life and in my family’s life. In case you weren’t aware, I am an animal lover. As a kid, Read More

It’s a Small World After All: A Blogging Experience

How many times have you had an experience that confirms to you that we live in a small world after all? It happens to me several times a year and probably more than that if I was really paying attention. I had an experience recently that, once again, made me realize that the world is much smaller than it often seems. I’ve been publishing the My Cup of Cocoa blog for a little over a year now and have made contact with people around the world through the blog and connected social media sites. It is amazing to me that Read More