We have had a great start to our year here in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. It is so exciting meeting new faces and getting reacquainted with old ones. As part of our introduction to our classes we have everyone jump up and grab a smile when their name is called and sit back down in pretzel position. Because children are so excited about our classes, they are already wearing a smile before I even arrive. As I was leaving my first class last week, I began thinking. Did I start my day by reaching up and grabbing my smile? Something so simple, but very effective. Sometimes we have so many other things going on in our lives we forget to think about our many blessings and what makes us put on that happy face. I was also reminded of these blessings this past weekend as one of my LPCW students, who is also a close friend, lost everything to a house fire. Forunately they are safe. I will see her in the morning in class, and I hope reaching up to grab a smile will help make her day!! So as you start your day tomorrow, take a little of our LPCW curriculum with you. Think about what puts a smile on your face, and put it on as you leave for the day. We are sending you smiles and good wishes from Charlotte!

Ms. Stephanie