Habit of the Week ~ Looking Back

Looking Back .....

 
"An ounce of memory along with an ounce of courage launches brains forward and pushes on to great achievement." Bob Bourgault, Principal Almond Acres Charter Academy 

“Everything we do seeds the future.  No action is an empty one.” - Joan Chittister

                                       

This week I thought it would be fun for the students to remember Chester stories, lessons learned and moments remembered. The students were amazing! What magnificent memories! Hands popped up everywhere with Chester memories from these past weeks together.  And their journal writings reflected so many great Chester lessons. Some students even snuck in a few memories that I was unaware of .....  Like the 4th grade boy who could not go on a field trip because of a yucky awful painful headache :( . He lay in the office with hoodie over his head, resting for most of the morning.  His memory of that day, petting Chester. He wrote that Chester was the best part of his day. (And I thought we were just checking in at the office for business reasons :)  )

This day of LOOKING BACK will be a day I will look back on with fondness....... remembering that what we do truly makes a difference. Seeds planted. 

I will also remember this day for another reason ---- THE CHICKENS.                                                                       

This was the day the chickens hatched in first grade! 

Upon entering  Mrs. Feil's classroom and hearing the excited whispers of "Guess what...the chickens hatched!",  I thought  it would be a good idea for Chester and me to  check out these new little chickies FIRST THING, you know, before doing anything else.  :)      This was not a good idea at all.  Not even.

While the teacher was wrapping up a morning teaching time, Chester and I tiptoed over to check on the little freshly hatched peepers who were nestled and sleeping in their snuggly-warm hayfilled box. We were so quiet and they were so quietly snoozing away as we peeked our heads over the edge of the box. Chester's nose twitched....hmmm new smell in first grade.

And then one of the little peepers made a peep. 

Chester's ears immediately perked, his tail swooshed like a propeller going round and round,  and his eyes were glued to baby chicks.  If he could have spoken, his words would have been, "CHICKENS, Wooohooo, PLAYYYYY TIMEEE!"

The students giggled.  And giggled some more. 

Rut-roh.  If I remember back correctly ... bird/chicken & chase are possibly two words that go together in Chester's mind. 

I gave Chester a tug. "Let's go," I said cheerfully :).  I of course expected him to be his dazzling obedient self and follow me.

Ah. Nope.

Chester did not have on his listening ears. Except for peeps.  

I pulled out a treat.  
Not interested. 
One student said, "I think Chester likes baby chicks more than Girl Scout Peanut Butter Cookies!" 
Well, true that! Great thinking back by the way :)  .

The students laughed some more while Chester demonstrated what NOT LISTENING looks like!

I said..."Chester, watch me !!!  [seriously that was a joke]  Chester, it's time, heal, follow me!" ( I do not recommend this next action at all)  And I drug him away from the chickens, luring him with treats.

We at last made it to the other side of the room. While students giggled and teacher was LOL.

Chester settled a bit. Mostly. Sort of. 

I began to talk with the students about the current silly moment that we were already LOOKING BACK ON (giggle giggle) ... and then then  kiddos shared more 'thinking back' moments from weeks past with their best-dog-buddy Chester.   

Of course every time the chickies quietly peeped, Chester loudly WOOFED.    This happened a lot.

He was so bonkers. And so silly.  And doggone funny.

Mrs. Feil  was so gracious......telling me how laughter was the very best medicine for her soul on this particular day.

And Chester did create a new unforgettable memory for the 1st graders to look back on!

And I learned a lesson.....Note to self:  When there are little chickies in the room, do not take a bird dog to see and sniff FIRST.  Wait til  end. 

Habit of the Week - Leadership

Leadership - A person who guides, directs, inspires a group

Once again, throughout the weekend, I pondered The Habit of the Week. Without a doubt in my mind I knew the story I would share with my AACA students  ~~

At school this week, 1st to 4th grade students inspired Chester and me

 with words they used to describe a good leader:

 trustworthy, honest, kind, responsible,

 fair, respectful, patient, keeps a promise, hard-working.  

These words described Chester's hero perfectly, 

a Super Star Leader in Pet Therapy 

 ~ Podley ~

Podley Eugene Gerth
Pet Therapy Superstar, Extraordinary Leader

When Podley came into the world, no one thought he would live, let alone be a Pet Therapy Hero and Leader.  Podley was born barely breathing, with only 3 legs.  And since no one expected him to live.... he was wrapped in a towel and set aside in the corner of  the room.  After all the puppies were born and quietly resting next to their mommy,  a tiny whimpering-sound came from beneath the towel -- and it was discovered that this little boy puppy who had been stuck in the corner, was actually alive and well and HUNGRY and ready to live.  He had a destiny!

As Podley grew, he had all the wonderful qualities of a great therapy dog.  Qualities that made not only a super therapy dog, but an outstanding leader! Loving, kind, never a mean bark :), trustworthy, respectful,  fair, playful, patient, strong, hard-working. In spite of difficulties, he had a never-give-up attitude, with an eternal smile on his face and wag in his tail.   When Karen Gerth met Podley, it was love at first sight.  Not only did Podley become Karen's treasured pet, he became an outstanding Therapy Dog, and he inspired an entire Pet Therapy Organization in Pennsylvania (KPETS).

Podley became Chester's hero and leader.

Podley had a special way with the people he visited. When children and adults saw ALL that he could do with his 3 amazing paws & pawsome attitude, they were inspired to follow Podley's lead.  

There was a special little girl Podley visited regularly.  He helped her in so many ways ~ especially in learning to be brave, to trust, and to love.  In fact, Podley was the very first one that this sweetheart had ever hugged.  On the day she reached her tiny arms around Pod's soft furry tummy to undo his vest, a hug was born with her safe and loving friend, and her heart opened a little wider to give and receive love..  

As Podley grew older, a  time came when  he could no longer visit his treasured friend.  It would take a very special dog to follow in Podley's pawprints.  And guess who was chosen to be her next pet therapy buddy.

Chester.  

Chester knew he had big paws to fill.   How could a 4 legged dog be as wonderful as a 3 legged dog? Chester could never be Podley, but he could follow Podley's leadership....and be Chester.

The day arrived for Chester's very first visit with Podley's friend. We walked down the hallway to her room. Peeked through the doorway. Chester swished his tail and calmly walked to her side. She reached her hand out to him, and gently touched his head with her pointer finger. Eventually her little arms reached around his tummy to undo his vest. She nestled her cheek against Chester's warm furry back. And Chester smiled.   Podley had taught him well. 

....................................

I shared bits and pieces of this story with each class we visited. An unforgettable moment came in 2nd grade. Truth be told, I  have a very special place in my heart for red-heads :) ...  and in 2nd grade there just happens to be  a cutie-pa-tootie little red-headed treasure.  I would describe her as sparkley. She just sparkles.

After sharing Podley and Chester's story, she was the first to raise her hand for questions and comments. And I noticed for the first time, (honestly I'd never noticed this before), one of her little hands had a thumb, and 4 teeny nubs, in the place where fingers usually grow. She waved her hand, hardly able to contain her enthusiasm ,  "Podley and I are alike, it's hard for me to grip a pencil with this hand, and it is hard for Podley to walk,"   she said with smiles and exclamation points!   I don't remember my exact response because I sort of had this lump in my throat, but it was something about how she and Podley had all the qualities of amazing heroes and inspiring leaders.

Before leaving the classroom,  our sweet friend read Chester her journal thoughts for the day.  She gave me permission to share them with you:

 "Potle was a good dog. 

He led the way for Chester. 

Potle can not walk (very well).

 I can not grab. 

Potle was adorable. I wish he was here now. 

Potle I will always pray for you."

I think sparkly AND adorable describe our little red-headed friend just perfectly. 

Habit of the Week ~ Commitment

Commitment - A promise to do or give something

One of my favorite moments this week was sharing time in a 1st grade classroom,  hearing their thoughts and ideas about this b.i.g. word commitment.

Chester and I took our spots in front of the students....and I asked the question, "Who can give me some ideas about what commitment might mean?"  Hands popped up everywhere.

It means keeping a promise, even when it is hard.

It means doing what you say you will do.

It means sticking with something, even when it would be easier to quit.

Seriously -- these little first graders have such HUGE hearts and BRILLIANT minds and INCREDIBLE wisdom.  Tears welled in my eyes as I listened to their heartfelt responses.

And, with these dazzling definitions ringing in all of our hearts,
I went on to explain about my commitment to Mr. Chester.  


                                      


First, I showed the students his puppy picture!  Of course we all oohed and ahhed at his cuteness. Who wouldn't want to bring home this bundle of love?  Next, I explained that bringing him home meant I was making a promise, a commitment, that I would take care of him faithfully for all the days of his life.   Even on days when I was a sleepy head.  Even on days when it was cold and blustery and rainy. Even on super-hot days. Even on days I was sniffly. And on days I could not be with him, I promised I would find a super-subsitute who would take really good care of him.

What emerged as I shared about my commitment to love and care for my best-canine-buddy, was a beautiful picture of  what happens daily in the lives of students at Almond Acres Charter Academy  ~~ a commitment to educate and care for the whole child: Heart, Mind, Body, Soul.

Together, we discovered how my commitment to Chester, takes really good care of his Heart, Mind, Body, Soul.

 

I  FEED him everyday. And give him FRESH WATER.         BODY

I LOVE him. Everyday I give him hugs, affection, and kind words.   HEART

I EXERCISE him. Everyday he gets a walk, run, or bike ride.    BODY

I  TRAIN him. Everyday I teach him good manners and
                                          help him to be a good citizen !    MIND

And putting all of these together -- nurtures Chester's   SOUL

Thank you First Grade, you are wonderful students and teachers. 

Chester and I love you!

Habit of the Week ~ Patience

Patience: To accept or tolerate delay or problems,  without becoming annoyed or anxious (or barking or going bonkers).

What in the world do Peanut Butter Girl Scout Cookies have to do with PATIENCE?  Most 1st, 2nd, and 4th Graders at Almond Acres will be able to tell you the connection ~~  because it has to do with their buddy, Chester.

Here's the story~
When Chester was 2 years old, he met a Jr. High girl with long brown curls named Melissa.   During the three years that Chester helped Melissa with her physical therapy, they became best friends.  BEST FRIENDS.   One day Melissa, who just happened to be a Girl Scout,  brought Chester a gift. Melissa knew Chester loved peanut butter .....  and so she brought her best friend a box of Girl Scout Peanut Butter Cookies.  His very own box!

Before Physical Therapy started, Melissa gave Chester a sample bite. Chester went BONKERS. He climbed up in her lap, stuck his nose in the box and wanted more cookies. A cookie monster for sure.

It was time to get to work, not time for cookies.  Melissa needed to practice balancing.  Chester needed to practice patience. She set the cookies aside, stood tall and strong on the blue disc, and threw the green tennis ball for Chester. Chester started to run after the ball, then urchhhhhhhhhh, he stopped. He sniffed. He ran to get the box of cookies.  And Melissa fell over laughing.

Chester was not being patient...not one little bit.

Melissa's Mom hid the box in another room.

Melissa threw the ball again.

Chester ran after the ball.  Then urchhhhhhhh, he stopped. He sniffed. He ran through the doorway and stuck his nose in the Girl Scout Cookie Box.  And Melissa fell over laughing.

He was not being patient, not one little bit.

Melissa's Mom put the box of cookies in another room and shut the door tight.

Melissa threw the ball again.

Chester ran after the ball. He stopped. He sniffed. And sniffed. But this time he could not smell the cookies, so he ran to get the ball and brought it back to Melissa.

We all cheered and clapped.

Obviously, Chester needed to learn about patience when it came to Peanut Butter Girl Scout Cookies. First work, then cookies!

Here is a picture of him today.  Look at the progress he has made!

Watch me .... Good boy!

Wait

Okay!!!!

Deeelicious

 P.S. Thank you to Chester's 1st grade friend, who just happens to be a Girl Scout, who brought him a box of his favorite cookies today.  Of course we opened the box right away, and of course it was the perfect time for a taste.    Oh Happy Day!

Sensational 4th Grade Moments

In one of the 4th grade classes, 2 brave students volunteered to help Chester.  It's been awhile, but my buddy was going to demonstrate "over" and "under" --- using two human-bridges-on-hands-and-knees.  It took a couple of tries, and a whole lot of laughter, but it wasn't long before Chester soared over, and scooted under his two new friends, incorporating ALL 5 SENSES in the remembering process. Sensational!

While Chester was working on remembering exactly what "OVER/UNDER" meant, I remembered another Chester story ....which of course I had to share with the 4th graders.

I was speaking to a Cub Scout Troop and their parents, demonstrating this very same trick. I chose a volunteer from the back row ~~ an eager little Cub Scout in crisp blue uniform.

I asked him to get down on his hands and knees and make a bridge for Chester. With a few giggles and silly expressions, he quickly made a dazzling bridge. I commanded Chester "OVER!"  Chester ran, jumped, planted his front paws on little Cub Scout, sort of using him like a spring board,  and flattened him like a pancake. The crowd erupted with laughter, the smashed cub scout got to his feet, a little embarrassed but thankfully no harm done.   I looked at Chester (who was sort of smiling) and whispered, "What is up with this smashing the cub scout thing??"

Because Chester needed to make things right with his little buddy, and do the trick correctly,  (strive for accuracy),  the courageous Cub Scout somewhat reluctantly made another bridge.  I once again gave Chester the "OVER" command. ...The Cub Scout braised his arms and legs, scrunched his eyes closed --- and this time Chester soared like an eagle over his little friend, not even touching a hair on his head.

The crowd roared --- Chester took a bow, the cub scout sprang to his feet and took a bow!  We shook paws and hands with our brave new friend, apologizing for Chester's mistake and thanking him for being such a terrific and patient helper.

Here's the rest of this story....  Right before leaving, the Cub Scout Leader approached me.  He went on to tell me that the boy I had chosen for the "bridge trick" just happened to be a young man who struggled greatly with bullying other boys in the troop.  While rubbing Chester on the head, he grinned at me and said, "Do you think Chester knew?"

I don't know if Chester knew :) , but I do know this little Cub Scout had a wonderful teachable moment ~~ hopefully he had ears to hear and eyes to see.

Chester, you are a  Sensational teacher. 

Some Encouraging Words

 After weekly visits in January, some feedback from the teachers...

“It  is great to know that you will come in and join in with whatever is going on that day. I know my students love seeing and petting Chester. It is nice to have you here during math since many kids feel stress during math, it makes it very relaxing. Thank you so much for taking the time to help individual students where they are struggling.”

“WE LOVE BOTH YOU AND CHESTER!  I have wonderful writing samples from some of my most reluctant writers when Chester is there to listen to their writing!  Chester is both a fun and calming addition to our class on Wednesdays, and even my am parents love seeing you both.  I have some emotional kiddos and the morning works great for us because Chester changes their disposition and sets them on the right path for the day!   Thank you for being a wonderful part of 1st grade!”

“We just LOVE having you and Chester visit.  Every day I get a, “Is Chester coming today?”

“Would you come everyday? :) ...”

Students….

A handwritten note from a  first grader (The note came tucked inside a paper airlplane, crayon-colored inside and out with hearts, a rainbow , green green grass, bright blue sky, and a happy golden retriever. ) 

Dear Chester! I really look forword to seeing you. 

You worm my heart.  

I love having you come to my class room.  

With love….

 Chester is gathering a collection of straight-from-the-heart drawings from his kids. Pencil sketched golden retriever masterpieces  ~~  We treasure each one. 

California Earthquake Drills

California Earthquake Drills

We weren't  in 3^rd grade for more than 10 minutes...  when the surprise Earthquake Drill began~~ Chester had already enjoyed his "rub my belly and scratch my ears" time  on the floor with Ms. Chase, and we were settling into the classroom schedule for the day.  Oh, and Kai and I had shared our hugs!

Sidenote ~~Ms. Chase is a golden lover, and has been in love with Chester since the day he stepped paw on campus 4 years ago --- and she has been waiting oh.so.not.patiently for the day when our grandtreasure, Kai,  would be in her classroom and Chester would perhaps  visit on a regular weekly schedule.  This has been part of the deal each year -- if Kai's teacher would like Chester visits, we would come for regular visits, if not, that was okay too.  Truth be told, Ms. Chase would like Chester to live in 3rd grade furever. 

As I said, we had only been in class a short time, and we were settling in to listen to some "How To" presentations by students....

When……….all of a sudden….. the announcement came over the loud speaker that the school was having an EARTHQUAKE DRILL.  This means duck and cover under the desks until the coast is clear.  Immediately the students stopped what they were doing, scattered, ducked under desks and tables, covered their necks and waited quiet-as-a-mouse.     Chester and I, of course, ducked and covered too, though his hiney and tail stuck out a lil’ bit from beneath his 3^rd grade desk. (pretty sure mine did too :) )

It was soooooooooo quiet.  

A minute passed.

And then...

We were instruected via loudspeaker to line up at the door and head out to the track field. Straight lines, no talking.  Chop Chop.

Chester and I pulled up the rear.

There was a pre-schooler visiting 3^rd grade.  He and his Mom were helping 3^rd-grade big brother with a presentation. Mom and big brother happened to be outside setting up for  a class presentation when Earthquake drill began.  Pre-School brother was inside  with 3^rd grade students.  Little Brother was not so much interested in walking in line out to the playground without Mommy and Big Brother.  

However….you know…. Chester was in 3^rd grade too.   

And so…. I handed Little Brother Chester’s leash. “Wanna walk Chester?”  I whispered.

He smiled, took the leash. And off we trotted.

The whole school was lined up in their classroom lines out on the track. It took quite some time for everyone to be accounted for.

Chester lay down, waiting patiently in the 3^rd grade line-up. He was counted too.

All students, staff, and D.O.G. were safe and sound.

The horn sounded, and we were free to return to class.

I sort of felt like we bonded that day,  and officially became a part of the school :)

PS  ---   Big Brother and Mom reunited with little brother, and finished setting up their presentation.  Presentation was demonstrating how to pitch a baseball into a huge net. Big Brother is a SF Giants' Fan through and through. And an amazing pitcher.     Chester got to watch, chew on a baseball, CHASE baseballs, and hang out with his Kai AND his 3rd graders, not to mention get a belly rub  and ear massage, and lay quiet under a desk for a whole minute. Life is soooo good in 3rd grade, pawsitively!