In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb

When I taught Kindergarten, I incorporated arts and crafts activities whenever possible. They allowed my students to explore, be creative, and just have a little fun. Each month brought different themes and projects: pumpkin paintings in October, triangle trees in December, colored eggs in April.

And then there was March.

Sure, in the middle of the month we tackled pots of gold, green clovers, and St. Patrick. We also started talking about the arrival of spring and collected small milk cartons for a planting project.

These were fun topics, but I always looked forward to March’s In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb lesson. It was the one where we discussed how March can begin with wintery conditions, but end with the promise of warmer weather. During the first week, we’d make orange and yellow lions and use yarn to create the manes. Then, we’d hang them on the wall as if March was saying “Rrraaagh! I’m here!” and “You better keep those mittens handy!”

Finally, during the last week, we’d use white cotton balls to make the cutest paper lambs. They would get hung as well, with hopes that their fluffy faces would speed up the arrival of spring.

I thought about these memories yesterday, the last day of March. I left my house early and headed to New Paltz, NY for an appointment. As I drove, I took in the blue skies, smiled at the sun, and opened my sunroof for the first time this year. I thought, March is definitely going out like a lamb.

Suddenly, I was brought back to my classroom and imagined those little lambs on the wall. I smiled even more thinking about those little Kindergarten hands, covered in glue and yet so determined to cover every inch of the paper with cotton.

It’s hard to believe that it’s been six whole months since my last day of school and the start of this journey. I’ll admit, the road hasn’t always been easy. To this day, its direction is still being confirmed. The decision to move forward, however, was the right one for me – despite how fondly I look back on my days as a teacher. It’s a part of my life that I continue to learn from and value each day I spend on this new road.

***

Speaking of roads, I parked near this one after my appointment yesterday.

I got out of the car and took a quick stroll around New Paltz’s Main Street. Lined with small shops and restaurants, Main Street was also bustling with people who were out enjoying the day.

I veered off onto one of the side streets and was met with some more storefronts and a few houses.

Shades on, I snapped a shot in front of a vibrant, brick wall.

Then, I looked up.

Across the street, I saw this cool mural on the side of a building. That building ultimately became my breakfast spot.

Hello, Main Street Bistro.

I was brought to a cozy table near the window. As I sat, I felt the sun shining through, adding some extra warmth.

I decided it was an iced tea kind of day.

Breakfast came: a skillet called The Nomad. It was pretty much scrambled eggs served over hash browns and topped with tomato, avocado, and swiss.

And bacon.

It was a colorful, delicious dish. I never thought avocado and eggs were supposed to be in the same vicinity, but they worked so well together. Yum.

The last day of March continued to be very lamb-like well into the evening.

Just before sunset, refreshed and hungry again, I headed over to a friend’s house for dinner.

To celebrate the beautiful day, we took to the barbeque and grilled up some shrimp kabobs.

The rest of the evening was spent sharing stories, laughs, and some wine.

Needless to say, it was a perfect way to end the month of March and toast what’s to come.

***

Spring is the season of new beginnings, and I’m excited for the changes that will unfold over the next few weeks. I’m also grateful for my memories in the classroom – they keep me grounded, motivated, and determined to create something new…just like those little hands covered in glue.