Only in Michigan

the first annual Dembcznski Family Reunion was celebrated in Sodus, MI this summer. i had one weekend to fly out and join in the fun... catching fireflies. eating sweet corn on the cob. exploring the orchards by 4wheeler. these are the sights you only see in michingan:

brothers shooting soda cans

sisters parading in grandpa's overalls

boys fishing in the pond (and yes, Gramps driving the 4wheeler.)

babies playing slot machines

and all 10 family members together around one table.

Marshmallow Madness

the first day of school was full of nervous jitters and curious children and shy smiles. i challenged their shyness through silly name games and team building exercises. my students were given a mission to work together in teams and create the highest marshmallow structure they could, without ever speaking a word. (yes, they got to eat a marshmellow too.)

each of my 25 fifth graders brings wonderfully unique characteristics and challenges to my classroom. some students speak only spanish. some are reading at an 8th grade level. others cannot read at all. holding the future of their lives in my hand is quite terrifying. so hopefully i challenged them. and scared them into working hard. and inspired them to want to.


who knew marshmallow was spelled with an 'a'?