Classroom magic

I'm currently reading a book about a thru-hiker trekking the Appalachian Trail. Hikers have this phenomenon they call "trail magic," when they unexpectedly receive some kind of food or drink. I've decided that teachers should have "classroom magic." Last week I was blessed with two wonderful, surprise gifts. I think any teacher will agree that a surprise cup of coffee and a free homemade meal feels magical!

And then there are also the beloved Valentine's Day gifts. This is one of my favorite gifts ever. The love is practically oozing out of every possible nook and cranny.

I am quite amused by the students' most recent writing piece.  We read a story about some characters who had a rule that stated everyone must work together and do their part. The students were asked to write about whether this rule would work in their home or classroom. I’m sure their parents would not be as entertained by their responses as I am, but I'm just tickled that they were honest and didn't just write what they thought I wanted to hear!

“Yes at school we do and at home it’s a no because we never do for some reason.”  

“I don’t do chores because I’m lazy because I don’t like chores.”  

“It wouldn’t work at home because people would get bored from working and they may not want to.”  

“In our home it would not work because we always fight and argue.”  

“It wouldn’t work in our home because we don’t ask we just get.”  

“It would not work in my home because my brother and sister are not good at following rules.” 

However, there were a few blessed souls that thought it would (or possibly would) work.

“It would work because then everybody would have a chance to share and do everything that they want and work would go faster.”  

“In our classroom it might work. Our classmates and teacher can help each other out! At home maybe. But! First get rid of fighting.” 

Regardless of what these dear kiddos say, I'm sure their parents do a fine job of teaching them to work together and do their part!

Full/super/blue moon

The beginning of February means the end of winter, according to one student. (I wish.)

Perhaps it had something to do with the full/super/blue moon, but there were some interesting conversations taking place in our classroom during the last week of January.

• One boy, after taking entirely too long in the bathroom, informed me it was because his favorite stall was taken, so he decided to wait until he could use it. 
• I overheard the whole class debating whether Miss Weaver is a chicken or a hen. (I don't know. I don't want to.)
• Some of the students were discussing what they might name their children some day. There were suggestions such as King Edward and Nero. One student - "Sam" - said, "If I ever have twins, I'll name one... Sam, and the other one... Sam!" 
• I often tell the students to make good use of their time if they're finished with all their work (read a book, practice multiplication facts, etc.). One day I noticed one boy had his head down on his desk, so I asked him to come help me with something. Later, he asked, "Is taking a nap making good use of your time?" (Absolutely, it is!) 
• We started a new unit in writing, one where they get to be a bit more creative. I am slightly uneasy about teaching it, because I like more structure, but after the first lesson, one boy exclaimed, "Now you're making us like writing!" 
• A couple sweet girls blessed me with some encouraging notes. I love how the one reminds me, above all, to love God!