focus

Focus is an art.

Living in the moment is an art.

I've been struggling to do these two things this year, as I constantly have millions of thoughts running through my head.

This past week, I've had two moments in which I felt super "in-tune" (if you will) with what was happening: first, spending a wonderful evening with even better friends. Second, attending one of my  favorite singer's concert.

I'm not sure what made these instances so special, but figuring out how to transfer that energy to all moments has been my most recent challenge - particularly in the classroom. I know that my class deserves that - plus, it makes my days run a bit smoother!

softball

I don't think I've ever before held a bat. I'm pretty terrible at throwing balls. So naturally, when the opportunity presents itself to coach the girls softball team at my school, I volunteer.

Naturally.

I'm most excited to work with my girls from last year, girls who really hold a special place in my heart.

I've also YouTubed, Wikipedia-ed & Googled the sport, but I'm pretty sure the real learning takes place on the field. Can't wait for practices to start this week??!

Side note, spring break came at a perfect time, per usual. I've had time to breathe mentally from the daily grind. I took the day today to clean out my teacher bag, & got a few smiles out of some treasures I found:

81 days left of this school year...HOME STRETCH IS NEAR!

clean slate

"Ms. Castro, me puede llamar Sebastian en vez de Juan*?"

"Umm...claro que sí."

At the beginning of the school year, one of my 6-year-old students decided to change his name a few months into 1st grade. I went with it, as did the rest of the class, & learning went on, normal as usual.

The confusing & comical moment in which he asked me for permission to do so always replays in my head. This child made it so easy to change something so important in his life - his name - & everyone was so accepting of it.

I wonder what life would be like if all changes were this easy to make.

By the way, I want to be called Queen B now...


*Names have been changed.