Conclusion of The Christmas Barn

The cold wind blew their leaves away. The three friends shivered and wished for day. “We can’t just do nothing,” the raccoon said. “Come on, squirrel and chipmunk. Let’s go  a bit farther. Maybe we’ll find food.”      Sighing, the squirrel straightened up and took Chipmunk’s hand. On they went, through the cold night. They […]

The Christmas Barn

The Christmas Barn

This is a repeat from last year. I hope you enjoy it. The Christmas Barn The 200-year old barn was empty and lonely. No longer did horses stamp their feet inside his walls; cows didn’t warm the stalls with their breath; no sheep snuggled against each other to sleep the night away.      The barn […]

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 […]