Write your story!

"We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day." ~Edith Lovejoy Pierce

How will your first chapter read?
Happy New Year to one and all! Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010!

Holiday Cheers!

Hey! Hope everybody is enjoying the holidays and relaxing! I've been sick with a terrible sinus infection and bronchitis. I'm taking antibiotics and they seem to be doing the trick; I am much better than I was doing a week ago.

I got my very own laptop for Christmas! I'm finally getting to use it since Abe's been working on loading programs and getting it all set up for me. It's a Toshiba--really cute and small. I am going to love this...sitting on the sofa, watching the t.v., and playing on my laptop.

Well, I just wanted to wish you all Merry Christmas, good health and loads of happiness in the New Year!!

New Little Beasley

Jeremiah and Andrea welcomed Kinsey into their lives a few days ago. All are doing well. Jeremiah is on FaceBook for those of you who would like to see the videos...she is adorable!

Hello from a good friend....

I saw Janet Walworth this evening at a meeting we were at and we talked a bit, she was wondering who I see and keep in touch with. She says hi to all, sends her best. Martin's birthday, late October, of course, was difficult. I continue to be in awe of Janet and her loving heart, strength, and her beaming smile! On my drive home tonight I found myself in deep reflective thoughts, and giving thanks for the people that God has put in my life. I have no eloquent poetry, but am indeed blessed by our Ames family.

Sound Success

Has anyone else found some success with using popular songs as a timer for "mundane" activities in the classroom?

I tried using the song "Fireflies" by Owl Moon (with lyrics, without lyrics) as an auditory timer for students who were cutting out their word sorts and it worked like a charm. There seemed to be less chatter, more quiet focus. The task was also completed faster compared to when I just put my online timer up on the screen during the previous week.

One final benefit: There is something eerily peaceful about listening to a class of fifth graders whispering along with a song like this.

I'd love your suggestions if anyone has any...