Well, here we are! Blog name is namesake: my first book is called The Best of It: a Journal of Life, Love and Dying. My father published it as part of the company I’ve inherited since his death.
My mother died of heart disease when I was 23 years old; the book chronicles her journey through her illness. It’s been more than 30 years since I lost my mother, and we learned some things then that I try to apply now. Here’s an excerpt from the book, which still speaks to me about my life today.
There truly was glory in moments when Betsy would smile and ask us to step closer; we had brought the freshness of outdoors in with us on our coats, in our hair. There was glory in coming in from an early snow, laughing, hands bright red with cold, to give her the first pressing of cider from a tin cup.
Interested in our books? Contact is here: b00ks@homeostasispress.com
Really, I want to share that. The Best of it, for me. What’s your Best? Maybe we can share sometimes. Thanks for stopping by.
The Best of It 
Hi! Just read your comment about read alouds, what are your picks for 5th grade?
Wonder, by Patricia Palacio, is at the top of my list for 4th and 5th grades, and I just read Hold Fast, by Blue Balliet. This one explores homelessness and is a real eye-opener for students. Paired with Langston Hughes’ poetry, you have a winning combination. The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis is another great book. For students in 4th and 5th I look for coming of age books, and those that challenge students’ thinking about the world around them. I hope this helps!
I just read Wonder and Because of Mr. Terupt! Both great reads!!
Hi, Barry Lynn,
Thanks for commenting! I had heard of Because of Mr. Terupt but I just looked it up. It looks very interesting (I moved to Vermont in 4th grade and “diverse class of students” certainly describes me and my friends!), and now I’ll have to add it to my list.
Hello.
This is your nephew, Kyle.
I have tagged you for the Infinity Dreams Award.
If you wish to participate, you can find my post including the rules here: https://42pairsofshoes.wordpress.com/2016/04/05/mile-91-the-infinity-dreams-award/
If you do not wish to participate, that is perfectly fine–I am just giving you the option.
-Jack
Sorry so slow to reply! I’ve had some deadlines. I’m honored to be tagged, and I like your questions. I’ll have to decide if I feel I can participate, but if I do, it will be a nice easy to jump-start my postings again.
That’s just fine. I have been awful about posting consistently on my blog as well.
If you cannot participate, it’s not a big deal, but if you can, I will be looking forward to your post.
-Jack