gifts

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“That’s some present!”

We were honored to reunite a first grade sister with herIMG_3386 big Army brother this afternoon.  He’s in training and home on leave for a short time…what a happy reunion!  As one young friend noted, “Now that’s SOME present, Mrs. Van!”

It’s ironic then that we shared a special poem today during morning message.  Written in 1943 during WWII, this particular gift was special indeed:

The lights are dim, but atop the tree a star is shining bright;
For in spite of closing darkness, it’s Christmas Eve night.
Small hands clasp at a doll’s soft curl, and small eyes open wide;
And a small heart thrills with happiness at the presents side by side.
But dear little one, the things you have are more than those you see;
The gifts at this Christmastime are not placed upon the tree.
A family close in love and JOY, the care that they each give;
The promise you shall always have, this country in which you live.
Each may have some presents, but yours are more precious dear;
For you give love and hope anew by simply being here.

It is true in this season of JOY for those who believe that it’s more fun to give than it is to receive!  The blessing of giving should be freely shared, not just now, but throughout the coming year.  As we get ready to close our doors for a holiday break, here’s hoping you take time to enJOY a wonderful season of hope, peace, JOY, and great love.  You are greatly loved at LaRue Miller Elementary!  🙂

Note:  We are on holiday break Dec. 21 – Jan 6.  Students will return to class on Tuesday, January 7, 2014. 

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Wrapping up a wonderful week…

“In seed time, learn; in harvest time, teach; in winter, enJOY…” so says William Blake and it’s most definitely been a week wrapped in JOY!

Mrs. Stanley, Mr. Kyle, Mrs. Bass, and I loaded the white “sleigh” to IMG_1976deliver gifts for over 200 angels to Manna House today.  Our LME families really go above and beyond in their service and care of others in our community.  Many of our LME families themselves will benefit from the generosity shown by so mIMG_1980any.  Thanks for showing and sharing by your actions the greatest gift of giving back to those most in need!

Our third graders delighted us with their amazing Broadway Santa musical last evening to a packed crowd.  The singing, acting, dancing, and jokes were simply sublime during this truly DSC_1139demanding show!  Bravos to our parents who cleverly costumed every single child–what extraordinary creativity!  Special thanks to our learners, their classroom leaders, and our specials team for sharing the beautiful gift of music with everyone this holiday season!

As we wrap up this week, here’s a question to ponder:  “What gifts do you give to others during the season (or the year) that do not come packaged in a box?”  As you know, it’s not about the physical gifts during the season; the other ways we choose to give (time, talents, service, etc.) are sometimes much more treasured than items wrapped in pretty boxes and tied with ribbons or bows…

We are blessed at LME with the gifts you and your child bring everyday to our learning community.  EnJOY a festive weekend wrapped up with those you hold dear!  🙂