Sad, Angry and a Bit Defeated

The "Governator" signed the California state budget and has made massive cuts to child care programs for low income families. Balancing the budget on the backs of children and those with little means is not the American way. What is happening to this country? Prisons get all the money they need, while education at all levels is being cut to the bone.

Fall

How exciting the last week has been. I have a new office and our ECE classroom has also moved to the recently renovated Nursing building. I have two new groups of students, who are lovely and excited to begin this journey. Everything is wonderful. I still have a stack of books on my nightstand and am enjoying "Tall Grass" by Sandra Dallas. Belated happy birthday to my dear Cassandra, miss you girl.

Where have I been?

Working too hard, moving and getting settled. I have begun reading again and will post my summer list soon. What are you all reading this summer? Last summer I blew through the Sookie Stackhouse books. Now I am looking for some light reading by the pool. I have a copy of The Faculty Club ready to go. I have been reading David Sedaris' books and love him. I also have The Philosophical Baby ready for a read. Suggestions?

Learning and the Brain Conference

I had a great time in San Francisco with my friend and collegue Rachel. Besides enjoying downtown SF, I learned tons at the conference. So much that I am trying to absorb and comment on. But, in the meantime, I met a professor from Arizona State, Dr. Jill Stamm. We not only attended her presentation, but also had the opportunity to have lunch with her. She wrote an excellent book that I purchased and sent to my sister in law. Anyone who is pregnant and looking for a great book that synthesizes the research on brain development and learning for infants and toddlers should pick it up. Here is the link to her book:
http://www.newdirectionsinstitute.org/documents/BrightfromtheStart.pdf.
copy and paste the link into your browser to see her institute and book.