My inspiration..."The Book Lady (aka Dolly Parton)"

Original Photo Credit: Shawn Miller/ Library of Congress

Imagination Library

NPR Post

I haven't blogged in several months.  I have taken some time to step back from social media to simplify life.  However, I think writing about "The Book Lady", aka Dolly Parton, is the best place to jump back in.  

For most Americans, Dolly is known for her legendary career in country music, beginning in the late 60s.  My husband and I were fortunate enough to hear her in concert at Red Rocks in 2016 and then visit the Country Music Hall of Fame that same year.  In the CMHOF, her dress, shoes and scratch paper with the words to her iconic song, "Jolene" were on display.  Such a treat to see and experience!

However, for millions of Americans age 5 and under, Dolly is known for sending one free book a month (60 all together) to foster the love of reading.  Her program, Imagination Library, started locally in her hometown in Tennessee and was started to honor her father, who was never given the opportunity to learn how to read.

This weekend, I once again began searching for a Dolly t-shirt (I have wanted one for a long time) and came across the above quote from her.  She may be the queen of country music, but her leadership in business and education for young children sets her apart even more.   Dolly knows who she is and lives her life to the fullest.  Her purposeful life is not only a gift of entertainment for the world, but a gift of early literacy skills for young children.  She dreams big and works to fulfill those dreams.

In my own life, I have many dreams and so many of those involve educating early learners.  It is hard work, but it is worth it.  I hope all of us can look to Dolly for inspiration.

One final note, it is going to take years for those sweet preschoolers in this picture to realize the event they got to participate in!  Oh how I would have loved to have been there myself!!