This past Monday, Bob and I woke up to the best and most needed news: emails from our respective jobs announcing a snow day. The universe had a funny way of giving us exactly what we need, exactly when we need it. Monday was a gift. After a long holiday break, rest was a priority. Therefore, we spent the entire day at home, attached to our separate work laptops, watching TV. We didn’t even talk that much, but being in each other’s presence was enough.
My History with Snow Days
I have a long history with snow days. Growing up, my Dad was a school superintendent. As such, he was in charge of making “snow day” calls for the entire school district. Getting an email from work about a “snow day” immediately transported me back to being a little girl – especially watching him weigh tough weather decisions.
During tricky weather situations, my brother and I would listen intently from a nearby room as our Dad spoke with other school superintendents in the area. We’d hear him weigh the pros and cons, the challenges for parents, teachers, staff and of course – the students. These conference calls would last for an hour, often longer, with each superintendent weighing in on the decision.
On one instance, while he was on the phone, my brother and I silently chanted from the other room, “Snow day, snow day, snow day, snow day!” (slowly getting louder as we said it while he was on the call). Another time, we were jumping in our living room between couches yelling loudly for all of them to hear. After that, I’m pretty sure my Dad took those calls from his office on another floor – lol!
Lessons about Snow Days
While snow days lead to cabin fever for parents and children, childcare issues, extra school days added for teachers…. safety comes first. One of the first things I learned about snow days from my Dad is, “A superintendent never wants to be the first to make the call, and he/she especially doesn’t want to make it alone.” Hence, why they decide to hold those conference calls. If one district closes, most others will too. If a big district stays open, similar ones follow suit.
Now, whenever I see “snow day” school alerts on the news, I know superintendents have carefully evaluated all options. They take the responsibility very seriously. No matter what decision is made, parents will call, email, and leave voicemails to complain. Students are thrilled (obvi), but superintendents are always an enemy in the parent’s eyes. In the end, my Dad’s best lesson was – the safety of staff and students is #1. He would listen and respond to every parent message no matter what. Yet, in the end, he always stood by the decision, since it was rooted in safety.
So parents – try to give your schools some grace on snow days (or lack thereof). They’re just doing their best : ) And bosses – think more like a superintendent. If local schools are closing, consider closing your office too. After all, there’s an army of smart and deliberate educators behind those snaw day decisions!
Now, speaking of the opposite of snow (lol), today’s post is from our trip to Miami a few weeks back. I brought along this gorgeous fuchsia lace ruffle dress – definitely a new favorite! I found it fits true to size, and it’s also available in petites! Lastly, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post to read all of my favorite links from around the web!
Dress: Eliza J Fuchsia Lace Ruffle Dress {c/o} // Bag: Staud White Shirley Bag // Eyewear: Céline
Shoes: Tory Buch Clara Bow Mules {also here} // Jewelry: Julie Vos Florentine Hoops
Dress: Eliza J Fuchsia Lace Ruffle Dress {c/o} // Bag: Staud White Shirley Bag // Eyewear: Céline
Shoes: Tory Buch Clara Bow Mules {also here} // Jewelry: Julie Vos Florentine Hoops
Some of My Favorite Links Around the Web
- Travel hacks from A to Z. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this Bloomberg article stat!
- Major congrats to Ana on the launch of her new site and her line of handmade blankets!
- This multicolor stripe sweater just arrived, and I’m pretty sure I will be living in it from here on out!
- Here’s what to watch on Netflix this December.
- How darling are these pink slippers?!
- InStyle editors were shocked that this cream won their Beauty Awards.
- My favorite earrings are now made in three colors!
- The Queen doesn’t like the word, “pregnant.” Here’s the phrase she uses instead.
- Gorgeous satin maxi dress – seasonally appropriate, effortless and the epitome of chic!
- Floral winter coat goodness. Adore the print!
- So obsessed with this pink embellished dress.
Recently on Style Charade
- Beating the winter blues with this amazing colorful suit and coat
- Florals on florals in London
- Designer deals to add to your cart and closet this holiday season
- The best gifts for any toddler in your family
- Keeping warm in this bright pink down jacket
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