The Agony of Defeat

So for those of you who haven't heard yet....Rory was the winner of our checkers tournament.  I'd like to say that it was a close match, but he had me on the run the whole time.  As many of you know, Rory and I have been spending our recess time lately playing checkers and it has turned into a sort of grudge match...friendly of course.  I have played a lot of checkers against a lot of fourth graders, but I have officially met my match.  During our recess matches, I have held a slight lead, coming from two games down.  It is because of this that I officially challenged Rory to a best of three tournament to be played during our game time at our holiday celebration.  The stage was set....I was ready to send the message that I am the Checkers Champion of the Universe.  Apparently, I am not. 

As is my way, I try to look at the outcomes of events in my life and see what I can learn from them to improve myself as a person.  Here is what I learned today:
1.  Never challenge Rory to checkers.
2.  How to win gracefully.

Even though I did not win today, I learned a valuable lesson from Rory in how to win like a true champ.  After Rory delivered his final blows to my poor little checkers pieces,  he naturally celebrated and showed his excitement....as he should have.  It was how he did this that impressed me the most because it was all good natured.  It was at that moment that I was actually a little thankful that I didn't win, because I probably would have done something like "IN YOUR FACE, RORY!" and then proceed to get everyone's attention and make an announcement of my victory.  Boy, would I have looked stupid.  So today, I learned a valuable lesson, and for that I am very thankful to Rory.  You are a great kid, a great opponent, and a fantastic winner.  Well done, my friend!
On a different note, I would like to send an enormous "thank you" to everyone for the incredibly thoughtful gifts I received today.  From beautifully decorated cards, beaded bookmark, delicious cookies, picture frames, books, and even a note box made from elephant poo, I am truly appreciative.  By the way, the elephant poo note box is an awesome example of how to reduce and reuse!  My new Jack cookie jar has found it's place; safe in my kitchen where no cats or children can cause it harm.  And Rory, if you're reading this, your gift is under my tree, where I said I would keep it until Christmas Day.

Big thanks to all the families who were able to join us in our celebration and made the day even more special.  You are an awesome group of parents and I thank you for teaching your children to be equally awesome!

Thanks again to everyone and as this will more than likely be my last post of the year...I wish all of you a very safe and happy holiday.  Enjoy every minute with your loved ones and be sure to let them know how important they are to you.

King me,
Mr. Fletcher

How Cool Was That?

One thing I love about running the spotlight for Mrs. Hoyt's concerts is that I get to stand back and take it all in.  I may have one of the best seats in the house!  Last night's concert was fantastic.  You ALL looked absolutely incredible and as always, I am amazed at your talents.  You made your families very proud....and your teacher!  If there were any backstage "butterflies" it certainly didn't show, as the way you presented yourselves as musicians, both vocally and instrumentally was inspiring.  If you are already this good, I can't wait to see what you have instore for the spring concert!  Great Job!


Shining a spotlight,
Mr. Fletcher

Me and My BIG Mouth

It's not a huge secret that one of my biggest pet peeves is seeing cars with wreaths on the front of them during the holidays.  It is even more annoying in April.  I apologize to any of you reading this if you adorn your vehicles with wreaths during the holidays.  Personally, I'm not a fan.  So imagine my delight (horror) as I looked out my classroom window this afternoon and saw this:

That's right...my sweet, innocent, little Element, who has never hurt a fly was accosted by some "elfishly" clever practical joker.  In case you are wondering, those are indeed antlers and a red nose, in addition to the lovely wreath on the front.  I guess I have been asking for it.  I'm kind of surprised it has taken this long.

So to my funny friend who so graciously decorated my ride.....I'm watching.  And plotting.  Well played, whoever you are!

As of right now I am declaring a new pet peeve........I absolutely hate it when people give me hundred dollar bills!  (Hopefully some will come my way now)

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'Tis the Season,
Mr. Fletcher

I Wish I May, I Wish I Might

In the spirit of the season, let's take some time and share some of our favorite things about the holidays that we celebrate.  I'm sure we each have some special traditions or things that we enjoy the most this time of year.  Maybe it is the thrill of the hunt for that elusive item you want to get for someone.  Maybe it is the time that you get to spend with family and loved ones you only see this time of year.  Whatever it is, take a moment and share it with us.  Here is mine:

When I was growing up (and still to this day) we had a kind of ritual on Christmas day where my family and I each opened one present at a time.  We would pass out the gifts under the tree to each person and then we would go around in a circle so everyone knew who the gift was from and what the gift was that we were opening.  Each person would open one gift and then the next person would go and then so on.  When I was a kid, it was absolutely tortuous.  I just wanted to rip into my gifts as quickly as possible.  As I got older, I really began to appreciate this tradition when I realized how excited I got when someone opened a present that was from me.  I was able to watch their reaction (good or bad) and feel that rush or excitement you get  when that gift you are so proud of giving is finally received.

It is a tradition that I plan on carrying on in my own family as my children get older.  It gives you a chance to thank the giver on the spot and gives you the gift of someone thanking you.

If you don't do this in your family, I say try it for one year and see if you notice a difference.  I certainly have.

Looking forward to your traditions,
Mr. Fletcher