Things Kids Say

You know that "kids say the darndest things"...

1. At recess Friday afternoon--

Student: "Mrs. Bartel, can I go get an ice pack for my hand?"

Me: "What happened to your hand?"

Student: "I bit it."

Really? You bit your hand? I really wanted to say all that, but his hand hurt, so I decided to be nice and let him get an ice pack.

2. After school on Friday--

Student: While patting the messy bun on my head, "Mrs. Bartel, you finally did your hair, it's beautiful."

She thinks that my normal hair (which isn't fancy, but works for me) needs a pony or something... And has told me that before.

Moving on...

Yesterday was Kansas Day and we celebrated semi-big in first grade. Some pioneer learning and dressing up.

Now I leave you with a few pictures of our fun...

Magic #2

Yesterday was The Day.

The Day.

The day that I dreamed of when I was little, and in the summer and all the days in between.

The day that the stars aligned. Everyone had enough water, breakfast, chai tea and sleep. The little minds assimilated all of the information that grown ups have been patiently, eagerly giving them. And they read.

Read words. Fluently. With confidence. 

Tears dripped from my eyes. Smiles across all the faces. And I witnessed a six and seven year old realize they could do it. Without me.

More magic in first grade. Pure magic.

January 2016 CURRENTLY

2016!

Thanks to Farley and her monthly party.

Today is such a great day. For reflecting. For dreaming. But before I get to all that--how about some explanations...

Listening--My house is quiet. Everyone has an electronic devise and are plugged in (not proud of it, but it is what it is).

Loving--On the Saturday of the start of this break, I created a list. (Thanks to Alison at A Teacher's Best Friend for a wonderful post on thinking and being intentional.) Mostly the list gave me permission to rest, and fill my soul with good things that get depleted during the throes of the school week/year. So, as I come to the end of my Break, I am loving how I feel: rested, refreshed, and grateful.

Thinking--Nothing more needs to be said. I planned on doing it sooner, but some other stuff took priority (rest, refresh, gratitude).

Needing--Sometimes I just need my BTPSM (best teaching partner soul mate). Hoping that can happen soon. Check out this article... Teacher BFF or BTPSM in my case for a smile.

One Little Word-- I think this year will take some courage. Good things are happening, and hard things are happening. So, I will fill up my courage cup and do the best I can in every situation.

Do you have a word for the new year? I think this is the first time I've had a word. My wish is that my word can guide me and keep me grounded. 

Here's to a great 2016!!!

Hop on over to Farley's place and read some more Currentlys.