I've been teaching classes locally here in Arizona for nearly six months, now, and each class teaches me something new! Whether it's how to better communicate with students, which supplies are a hit and which aren't touched, or the best way to teach what I need to get across, I find myself a continuously learning student teaching other students.

It's an amazing thing.

Unlike online classes, where everything is passive and reactive, I get to actively engage my students in the classroom. We can chat and play and share, or I can instruct and try to finish on time. Feedback is immediate.

And that moment when their faces light up and they get it -- I wouldn't trade that for anything.

One thing I have noticed is that I control the feel of the class.

If I'm rushed or anxious or doubting myself, that will color the lesson. If I'm bouncy and excited, we'll have a fun play-date. My style has evolved from the beginning -- laying out supplies across two tables makes it fun to sit and play and exciting to see what we may be doing in class. Bringing journals for students to work in makes them feel like they're getting a special gift.

I certainly learned from my last bookbinding class, and decided to kit the entire project. But not only that -- I decided to make fun envelopes out of paper bags, wrapped the remnant paper strips around them, and tied ribbon around the kits. A hand-written hello! sets the mood: you are cherished, welcome, and going to have fun!

Luckily, there's a Whole Foods across the street; I'll be stopping before-hand to grab yummy treats!

There's still time to join me tomorrow or Sunday to lean how to bind your own journal!

You can learn more information here, or send me an email to let me know you're coming!