~HB ADVENTURE~ – Page 426 – "If you don't see the book on the shelf, write it." ~ Beverly Cleary

August 19, 2009

The Very Best of Friends

When Sparky is around Sydney becomes a very different dog. Gone are the five hour naps, the lap-neediness, and the interest in the every move made by either myself or Barry.

Instead she fixates on Sparky trying to entice a game out of him by hitting him with her left paw or body slamming him with her tubby rolls. He ignores her for the most part, but every so often he’ll rally enough interest to sprint around the yard letting her chase. If Sydney is really lucky, Sparky will chase her and all her badgering will have paid off.

When Sparky left Sydney started whining and barking at his getaway car that was headed back to Camp Janet. It was really sad, but now she’s back to her five hour naps, lap-neediness, and interest in our every move.

Poor little pup.

August 18, 2009

B,D,A

BEFORE:

DURING:

AFTER:

August 17, 2009

Goodbye, Johnny Bob

Last year I had 22 students in my class and this year, as of now, I have 26 kids coming my way. As the first day of school creeps closer and closer, I wonder where I am going to put these 26 six year olds. I have exactly 23 desks.

Our imaginary student, Johnny Bob (named after one of Junie B. Jones’ stuffed animals), typically sits in the unfilled desk. Each morning after taking attendance the student that sits next to Johnny Bob announces his absence and as a whole class we express our concern for his education, since he’s always absent.

Sometimes Johnny Bob’s desk gets used by students that need extra space or just need a break from their current desk. Johnny Bob is the type of student that doesnt’ mind others working in his area. He’s a model student. I’ve had kids from previous years come back and inquire about Johnny Bob’s attendance. (Has he started coming to school? Do the ‘new kids’ know about Johnny Bob? Is his desk still the same?)

Come September and the beginning of Musical Chairs, I’m going to take a moment and think about Johnny Bob and what he represented: lower class size, a whole class inside joke, extra work space, comic relief and an opportunity to help my students understand the importance of attendance.

I hope Johnny Bob can come back to Room 2 next year.