The Shivers

“Let’s tell scary stories,” I said. “OK,” both Sara and Nathan agreed. So I went first. I thought I was doing pretty well, building up to the exciting and shivery climax. “Mem, that’s not scary,” one of them said. “Wait, wait!” I protested. “I haven’t gotten to the really good part yet.” Then when my […]

Rain

Rain

At last, we’re getting much-needed rain. To say “much-needed” doesn’t really describe the state of dryness we’ve been in for a long time. I don’t think we had any rain in September and here it is, nearing the last of October. I’m just grateful for it. The trees and grass surely are, too. Fire danger […]

Falling Into Fun

Happy first day of fall. In kindergarten rooms across the nation, I’m thinking there are changes. A fall decoration, doubtless, adorns the door. Inside, children and teacher step into a new unit on autumn. I enjoyed teaching math, science, reading, and art in units. The children and I would look for signs that the season […]

Star Spangled Cat

Star Spangled Cat

In honor of the birthday of our National Anthem, I re-print my story about the cat who helped Mr. Key on his endeavor.   Star Spangled Cat By Blanche Day Manos “What?” I screeched. “Go to sea? Are you crazy?” Every one of my gray and white hairs stood straight up. Reggie laughed. “You look […]

The Mystery of September Rain

The Mystery of September Rain

What is it about a gentle rain that is calming, soothing, and better than a lullaby for putting a person to sleep? Rain dripping from leaves and eaves, thunder rumbling softly in the distance, September, tucking the world in, a soothing backdrop to sleep. Nighttime rain is comforting; daytime rain is exciting. Why? Children know. […]

A Tattle Here, A Tattle There

A Tattle Here, A Tattle There

Did you ever hear just a tad more than you wanted to hear? Or, have you thought, You know, I could have lived my whole life and been quite happy not knowing this? Tattling gets old mighty fast. Young children in school will sometimes tattle on others, and in adults, tattling evolves into gossip. And, […]