Friday, December 16, 2011

Russell Hoban

One of my most favorite children's author's has died.  Russell Hoban was perhaps my first favorite author, and the adorable badger, "Frances," my first favorite character.  I have such fond memories of listening to my parents read about Frances nearly every night.  I loved the look Frances' dad gives her when she has come into their room for what seemed like the hundredth time.  As a child I often wondered why Frances was a picky eater, I loved, and still love food, and could never fathom eating just bread and jam every day. Also, since it is Christmas do not forget it was Russell Hoban who also brought us Emmett Otter...a classic Muppett Christmas special.  Whenever I weed I often come across some of Mr. Hoban's lessor know works.  Many times the copies are very loved and are taken out to make room for new books in better condition.  I must admit, that those books don't make it to the discard box where students can choose what they like.  I just add them to my collection so I can continue to share them with others.  I never really thought about it, but perhaps Mr. Hoban had some influence over the way my life has turned out so far.  Please raise a slice of bread and jam to Russell Hoban!  Thank you for so many wonderful stories and memories.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Thing 1: Blogging

I am so excited to be taking a class that is forcing me to blog.  I have set up several blogs but fizzle out after a few posts.  Who am I?  I am Erin Jankowski, and am the librarian for Menands School (K-8, we don't have a high school).  I am here because I love technology, getting my colleagues to use technology, and having my students look amazed when I teach them something cool they don't already know how to do on the computer.  I am hoping to discover some great new tools, and to discover new and interesting ways to improve upon the tools I currently use.  In addition to my job, I love to cook, read, and take photos.  You may see some evidence of those other things on this blog.  I have found that my cooking and photography skills have help to attract both staff and students to the LMC--Offer food and they will come.