All I can say is, "WOW!" OLQP really knows how to celebrate reading! It has been an amazing week! Doors became book covers. Classrooms were transformed into perfect places to pull out a good book: campsites, the beach, and even a castle. Books came to life as favorite characters walked the halls. After prayer, a middle school student read a book that was tied to an author study to the student body each day. D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) was enjoyed by all - whether the students were curled up on a blanket or sleeping bag with a book in their classroom or outside under a tree, it did not matter. What could be better than a glass of milk and cookies to enjoy while you're reading? Student Council members furnished the treats, and they delivered! It all may look like fun and games from the outside, but the activities were actually research-based and curriculum driven.

     A love of reading is a gift to be passed on from generation to generation. When I was growing up, my mother would read books to us. I have wonderful memories of the "bedtime routine" when, after prayers were said, Mother would climb into bed and read to my sisters and me. One book that she read to us was the life of St. Therese of Lisieux. It was a beautifully written biography that told the story of the making of a modern day saint. I was not yet in school but remember to this day the lessons of St. Therese- offering little sacrifices for the love of God, doing things for others, and loving Jesus and wanting to serve Him. The version that was read to my sisters and me can still be found at Ignatius Press ( http://www.ignatius.com/Products/STR-P/saint-therese-and-the-roses.aspx?bCategory=TCH!VISN) This and many other beautiful biographies are available to share with your children.  Many of these books have tests that are available on Accelerated Reader as you can see on the website. Filling your home library with quality books that inspire virtue and share the Faith is a great gift to children.

     This school year, students will be coming home with a summer reading list. Plan your own D.E.A.R. time, enjoy some good books, and make some memories to last a lifetime!

May God continue to bless all of our OLQP family!