¡a jugar!

It was a fairly normal week at school, but I think my favorite moment was today's play time.  Often, play time consists of the kids all doing their own things:  one practicing guitar, one playing violin, one doing homework, two riding bikes, and a few catching grasshoppers and lizards.  But today was a school-wide play session in the courtyard—the kids were laughing and running, footballs and Frisbees were flying. 

At first, I was a mere observer sitting at the picnic table nearby.  I was soaking in the sun and enjoying the display of carefree exuberance before my eyes.  Then Gaby walked out of the play closet with two Styrofoam “swords”—one pointed in my direction.  

Apparently, I was being challenged to a duel.  I’m not one to pass up a challenge. 

It was the duel of the century—complete with severed limbs, decapitations, sneak attacks, CPR, and miraculous healings.  It could have been a movie.  

My first year here, I was always outside playing with the kids, but recently I don’t get out as often.  I seem to be in my classroom getting ready for the afternoon or supervising the punishment of children who forgot their homework.  Today reminded me how much I love playing with the kids.  It’s the kind of interaction you just can’t get in the classroom.