End of Year parties with the Kids

Both the kids had end of the year parties in the park down the street from the school. Andrew's was on Monday (school got out on Wednesday.) They took sack lunches and played for about an hour and a half. It was pretty fun. I ended up pushing some of his friends on the swings and then playing the outfield in kickball. These second graders are hard core kickball fans. They are very serious about the rules and take the game so seriously. They don't like to get out. There were lots of tears shed when kids were out. I can't imagine playing kickball on a daily basis with this crew, but it was certainly fun for a one time thing. I couldn't convince Andrew to play though.

Marin's class also went to the park on Wednesday. We were not so lucky with the weather. It was sprinkling and pretty chilly. The kindergarteners didn't seem to mind though. Prior to going to the park, we had a graduation ceremony. Marin's teacher wrote a poem about each child that she read and then presented them with their graduation hat and a handshake. She was a wonderful teacher who really understood each child in that class. She created an environment where the kids were able to thrive. Marin's poem was called Marin Who.

Marin Who

Marin who
Is short blond hair
With delicate earrings
Sparkly necklaces
And vibrant bracelets
An accessories queen
With extra headbands, hair bands, and shoes
In her backpack
Marin who
Loves her family
Going to Publishing House
And writing about her mom
And many family adventures
Marin who
Works hard
And always gives her best efforts
With every task
Marin who
Is kind and helpful
To others
Eager to please
A gentle smile
And hand to help
A classmate or friend in need
Marin who
Has a generous spirit
Who I will remember
Because of her infectious laughter.

Thu Truong

What a great poem that really captures Marin. It was so nice to see her move on to first grade. She has really progressed this year. When we were at the park, I spent much of the time giving the kids underdogs. I was pretty tired after doing at least 40 underdogs. They would giggle and laugh each time. Some only wanted to go sort of high and others I couldn't get high enough. It was interesting to watch the different personalities come out. We had pizza and veggies and fruit in the rain. It was a fun day though.

I am so proud of both of the kids for doing their best in school. They are both well liked. They both excel in their studies. What wonderful children I have.