As is island tradition, we also went caroling to the homes of a few of the elderly islanders. The students sang a handful of songs and we handed out bird feeders and cookies to each house. It was a beautiful and much appreciated tradition. Many members of the community showed up and took part in the singing. The students were freezing and tired by the end, but they were troopers and did their best at each house. Check out this great video of us singing!
The final day before break in my classroom we had a big, all-day party. The morning started off with "Books & Toast." "Books & Toast" is another island tradition in the classrooms. The entire elementary wing declares a pajama day and the students spend the whole morning curled up with blankets, pillows, and good books. They read in groups or solo, depending on their level and who does/doesn't need reading assistance. Meanwhile, the teachers serve up a variety of breakfast foods, with the main course being some seriously fancy toast options.
After our morning of reading, we spent the afternoon watching "How The Grinch Stole Christmas" (the original version), having relay races and playing games in the gym, building (cheater) gingerbread houses, and enjoying a gift exchange. I always try to do something homemade for my class each year. This year, I filled quart-sized mason jars with all the ingredients to make peppermint brownies. It was a hit!
I left the school on Friday afternoon feeling completely exhausted. Normally, Cody and I travel for the holidays. This year, we decided that we would stay put and try to get a little r&r. It's very nice to not be spending my precious break in airplanes and rental cars, zooming from one location to another.
Your turn...What some of your holiday traditions?
Currently listening to...You've Got A Friend In Me - Randy Newman
Do you teach at a public school? What grade? I was a public school teacher for 15 years. Enjoy your break - I know it's well deserved!
ReplyDeleteYes, I teach at a public school on Beaver Island. I teach 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade and have a whopping nine students (up from the five I had last year). It's quite an interesting teaching assignment :)
Deletesome of my traditions include tree and ornament decoration! I also like to make home made hot chocolate! This year we are taking a little time to ourselves instead of having family over. I love this post and I also like the idea of peppermint brownies! Happy holidays! I look forward to reading more from you!
ReplyDeleteYummm...homemade hot chocolate is a wonderful tradition! Thanks for stopping by the blog! :)
DeleteI loved making gingerbread houses out of our milk cartons! That definitely takes me back!
ReplyDeleteI know, right?! That's one of the things I love about teaching. I am constantly reliving favorite activities from my childhood.
DeleteOur lives are in chaos right now. But, it's all about family for me. Family is home.
ReplyDeleteI love that! My husband and I travel a ton and move every few years. I like to say, "always at home, wherever we roam."
DeleteOur tradition is to make cookies for our neighbors and we also helped out a family in need of Christmas presents this year. It's a great feeling to help others.
ReplyDeleteGiving back to others is a wonderful tradition :)
Deletepajama day was something my kids on the last day of school before winter break. Amazing how excited kids can get over wearing pjs to school.
ReplyDeleteTeachers are excited for it too...it got me out of khaki pants for the day!
DeleteOne holiday tradition we have is to put the tree up the Saturday after Thanksgiving. We always do it, while listening to Christmas Carols.
ReplyDeleteWe always listen to Christmas carols while we decorate too!
DeleteOne holiday tradition we have is to put the tree up the Saturday after Thanksgiving. We always do it, while listening to Christmas Carols.
ReplyDelete