Coolest Gift Ever

Each December I get all kinds of gifts from the families of my students.  This year was no different…except that I quite possibly got the coolest thing ever. 

My students have picked up on the fact that I go to Starbucks most every morning.  As a result, several of them chipped in and purchased me a rather large Starbucks gift card.  

It was a very pleasant surprise! 

One very smart boy in my class also picked up on the fact that I am somewhat of a “Gadget Geek.”  If it’s an odd gadget (especially anything technology related) I am going to be extremely impressed with it.  

So anyway, this boy got me a Swiss Army Flash drive.  

That’s right I said Swiss Army! 

As you can see in the photo, but would probably have guessed anyway, it has the usual small knife, small nail file and small scissors.  In addition to these Swiss Army Knife regulars, the familiar red background shield with the white cross symbol is actually a push-switch for a flashlight and it has a pop out ball point pen to boot!  

However, the big news was the fold out 1 GB flash drive!  Very cool! 

I know what you’re thinking and it’s the first thing that popped into my head as well.  

Next time I’m lost in the jungle, I’ll be set! 

That’s right, not only will I be able see in the dark, and write notes in my tree-bark journal, but I’ll also be able to store all my important data, quickly and safely fold in my flash drive and still have time to get my knife ready to hunt or protect myself from any hostile predators. 

 

I am in heaven baby!

The Power of Suggestion

The power of suggestion can be mighty strong… 

I’m always joking around with my students.  I firmly believe that if a child enjoys being at school then the possibilities for learning are endless.  

A couple of years ago I told my class that I was the world of math scholars, I was the world’s leading authority when it comes to improper fractions.  I told them that in college my roommate and I started the National Society for the Advancement of the Understanding of Improper Fractions.  (NSAUIF)  I went on to say, that for the last 10 years I had been the president, but that I had to step down, because I wasn’t able to teach and do all the things a president needs to do. 

I had no idea, but they bought it hook, line and sinker! 

I forgot all about my fabricated society until sometime the following year when one of the teachers in fifth grade who had a few of my students spoke up at our faculty meeting and said, “I learned today, from my students, that Mr. A is the former president of the NSAUIF!”  

As it turned out, one of my former students had tried to enlighten his teacher about the facts concerning improper fractions and he cited me as the school’s only true authority on the matter. 

For me, that was loads of fun.  Especially since the teacher he was arguing with is the person I go to when I have math questions.  

But it got me thinking. 

 If while joking around I could simply suggest something to my students and have them believe it, then what else might I be able to suggest? 

I decided this year to tell my students at every chance I have that they are the most gifted math students I have had in years.  Don’t get me wrong, none of my students are low in math, but a few do struggle.  I just wanted to see if some of their problems where all in their heads.  

So that’s what I’ve been doing for this whole year.  

Every single day I praise their math skills.  I go on and on about how incredible they are.  I even go so far as to make it seem like some big secret I’m not really supposed to tell them.  And I think I’m beginning to see some individuals who have never really liked math gain some confidence.  

Last week, we took a district math assessment.  

My students knocked it out to the park!  

 

Yep, the power of suggestion can be mighty strong…

Adobe Abode...

If you’re heading to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and you want somewhere to stay that is truly a “home away from home,” then Adobe Abode is the place for you.  

I’ve lost the exact count, but we’ve stayed at Adobe Abode at least six different times over the past seven or eight years and wouldn’t even consider staying anywhere else.  The warm, inviting atmosphere combined with the comfortable rooms makes you feel at home right from the start.  

With museums, all levels of dining and the charm of the Plaza all within walking distance, it’s more than easy to plan each day’s adventures.    

But what good are a comfortable bed and a great night’s sleep without an incredible breakfast!  Luckily, Adobe Abode has all of the above!  I’ve never gone away from the table hungry, and I’m always extremely pleased with my meal. I believe that even if the accommodations weren’t incredible, which they are, the breakfast would keep me coming back. 

That brings us to the owners and staff…both TOPS!  Whether it’s Andy Duettra, the owner, or one of his wonderfully trained staff members who are serving you breakfast, they are very helpful with things like restaurant recommendations and basic city information.  And they are all fun people to be around. 

Give Adobe Abode a try…and you’ll be hooked for life!