In Remembrance

A year ago today, we lost one of the most amazing women I've ever met. Janice Carrender was my teaching partner and next-classroom neighbor. It was her first year of teaching, and she was so incredibly devoted to her students. Her infectious laugh, hysterical sense of humor, and constant, thoughtful planning were just some of her best attributes. She was taken from us much too soon and unexpectedly on Valentine's morning of 2007. Today we remembered her beautiful spirit.

A tree was planted last spring in her memory.

This poem reminds me of who she was and what she stood for:

Think Like a Tree

by Karen I Shragg

Soak up the sun

Affirm life's magic

Be graceful in the wind

Stand tall after a storm

Feel refreshed after it rains

Grow strong without notice

Be prepared for each season

Provide shelter to strangers

Hang tough through a cold spell

Emerge renewed at the first signs of spring

Stay deeply rooted while reaching for the sky

Be still long enough to hear your own leaves rustling.

Janice, you will forever be in our hearts.