We took our GT students to Abilene today to visit the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature and have lunch at Gatti’s. The museum was quite an experience and one I recommend if you like to see the art found in children’s literature. This particular exhibit had some rather interesting pieces. I enjoyed watching them find the odd things in the paintings and discuss what the meanings could be. I admit to laughing a little when one of the students, after examining one painting, turned to me and said, “Mrs. Moore, that’s just disturbing.”
After the tour ended, we visited the gift shop and then left the museum. Spying the fountain across the street, we made our way there. Our journey took the kids to a statue which is based on the book, “Santa Callls” and they all immediately had to pose for pictures. We continued on to the fountain where the kids stood with faces raised to the warm sun, arms spread, and feeling the spray of the water as the wind blew.
My colleague and I watched the kids run and jump and pose in that little park. We laughed from the pure joy we saw on their faces. Later, we watched them devour huge piles of pizza and pasta and desserts. Following their feast, the kids took off for the game room where they could ride a mini roller coaster, drive bumper cars, or earn hundreds of tickets playing games.
I have to tell you, this was a great day. The kids were respectful and answered the docents guiding our groups. They seemed interested in the art on display and impressed us with their insights. This was followed, however, by pure kid behavior. They played, squealed, ran, jumped, laughed, and joked. Once again I found myself grateful for being able to work with these amazing kids. For a short time, I was able to put schoolwork aside and just “hang out” with the kids. I love my job.
Christine Moore currently holds a degree from Howard Payne University and is actively working toward a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. Married with four children, Christine teaches 6th grade reading in Brownwood and has been working in education at various levels for the past 14 years. Her husband, Jeremy, owns a local company that specializes in web design, custom computer builds, and on-location repair called DreamSoft Design at www.dreamsoftdesign.com. Christine welcomes your questions and comments and would love to hear from you!