Author Archives: Julie Hooker

About Julie Hooker

I'm a teacher, writer, and editor. In addition, I'm an animal rescuer, yogi, and friend.

Rules for Engagement

Posted on December 4, 2021 by Julie Hooker

Rules for Engagement 4 December 2021 Okay, I have to admit that I don’t love Brene Brown. By that, I mean, I don’t love her the way other people love her. During the pandemic, I bought Willie Nelson’s Letters to … Continue reading →

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Hope –it’s a survival trait: 28 November 2021

Posted on November 28, 2021 by Julie Hooker

In these difficult dark times, we need hope more than ever. Goodall claims “hope is contagious.” I hope so. She explains that hope is survival trait. I just started reading the book this morning. I’m hoping it helps me survive … Continue reading →

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Heart Failure, 27 November 2021

Posted on November 27, 2021 by Julie Hooker

On Friday, September 24th, 2021, little Willie was diagnosed with heart failure. On Saturday, September 25th, Ray insisted we drive to Moab for Steve Prescott’s Celebration of Life. Dr. I. Ray Thomason (iraythomasonmd.com) insisted on playing his guitar that day. … Continue reading →

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My Defensive Line is Strong

Posted on November 27, 2021 by Julie Hooker

27 November 2021 2021 put all of us on the defensive. Trying to navigate trauma — a pandemic, violence, racism, careers, and, of course, personal letdowns. On January 14th, Bob O’Connor left our world.  When I paid tribute to my … Continue reading →

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If you need something, ask

Posted on November 27, 2021 by Julie Hooker

A few years ago, I realized that there were a lot of issues inside my classroom that could be managed if I just asked — or, even better, if my students asked. Time wasted and off-task can be minimized if … Continue reading →

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Etiquette and Ethics with Vaccines

Posted on July 5, 2021 by Julie Hooker

Etiquette and Ethics with Vaccinations I read Kwame Anthony Appiah’s column for The New York Times addressing ethical questions for ordinary folks each week. I have questions about etiquette and ethics regarding Covid vaccinations. Yesterday, on the 3rd of July, … Continue reading →

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Maude (2006-April 5, 2021): Your Head is in the Stars

Posted on April 5, 2021 by Julie Hooker

Gray kitty. You blew into the neighborhood behind REI 15 years ago. Jennifer told me about you. Her neighbors “adopted you.” When I met you, I saw that their idea of adoption was leaving the garage door open a few … Continue reading →

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Mikey — You Were Always an Angel

Posted on November 9, 2020 by Julie Hooker

In 1985, Santa was good to me. I was 15 and received paisley pants, a v-neck sweater, and chunky long pearls to match my big bangs sprayed high with AquaNet. Dad and I visited Uncle Roy and Aunt Patty in … Continue reading →

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Be the ONE to Give What Someone NEEDS

Posted on October 21, 2020 by Julie Hooker

Close to Christmas time, my 5’4″ towered over Iris Durfee, the smiling squat Princess of Treasure Mountain Junior High School — a veteran teacher filled with creativity, passion, and love. Mrs. Durfee was a force in the classroom. Students learned … Continue reading →

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Teaching the Greatest Generation

Posted on September 25, 2020 by Julie Hooker

‘Disturbing’ lack of Holocaust knowledge in US popped up on my Facebook feed the other day. . I re-posted noting, “this is why we must continue to teach books like Night.” A mom, a friend, and a tremendous advocate of … Continue reading →

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