Welcome to third grade science. We had about 10 of these little “friends” living with us for a week. About one a day died (cycle of life, kids) and they smelled so bad I sent the rest home as pets (yes, pets, not dinner). It’s interesting to see the different reactions the kids have to them. Some are terrified (including me) and some love them and would sit and stroke them like a cat. 

We are learning about similes and this is what one student wrote. Sure, he can’t spell my name but its the thought that counts. 

The life of any visitor to my classroom. Come!

So when the aforementioned student transferred last week, I started crying at school. I have had a long relationship with this kid and I couldn’t control myself. I left the room but the kids still knew what was going on. Several teachers told me the next day that kids in the school were wondering why I was crying. Then the next day, I received this little pile of gifts: an apple IN A BAGGIE, chocolates, a crochet rose and a bookmark (the other side is decorated with my name). Then today when talking to a parent about another incident the mom said “also, my son is really worried about you, he said you were crying?” Oh dear I am terrifying children with my inability to control emotions at school. At least it shows how sweet and perceptive they are. 

One of my favorite/most challenging students transferred today. That inspired me to finally draw another comic. This is something he said last year. <3

The next is a card from the same student who gave me the vintage Bulls pin. This time he gave me a dollar.

Me: “I don’t need this dollar, the card is enough”

Student: “It’s ok, I got like two more at home.”

<3

Ok so I know I’ve been horrible about posting but to sort of make up for it, I will give you a Christmas double bonus. As a teacher in an area of poverty, I often get some pretty interesting gifts. Mostly they consistent of Ferrero Rocher which Walgreens carries and I eat them all winter happily.

I am posting for you two of my favorites today. The first is “Be…kissable: seductive bubbles shower gel.” And no this is not from the student whose mom always asks me “tienes novios ahora?” (do you have boyfriends now?). The back of the shower gel reads: “make him blush with this sassy scent that inspires the flirt in every woman.” Do I come across as desperate?

Remember when things were this exciting?! This does not even convey how much this kid was freaking out. To quote Knocked Up: “I wish I loved anything as much as she loves bubbles.” Take time to find joy in something small today :)

Best gift ever! It’s a vintage Bulls championship pin. We’re talking a minimum 8-peat here Bob…