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successful super summer swap

home / writing / successful super summer swap
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Literally, the minute Maddy and Owen woke up after returning from the OBX, they first ran to check on Golden and Guinea, and then they hit the dining room to check on their big box from Texas.

They worked so hard on their package for their penpals, so they were very curious about what might be included in the letters for them.

  • Pen Pal Package: Maybe inspired by their recent Space Week, or more likely because they’re so close to Houston, Owen couldn’t get enough of the shuttle that his penpal included or the Space Flash Cards–both are like nothing he’s got going on over here.

Add a few postcards, a letter, chalk, and a Lightening McQueen lollipop to the mix, and my Owen was in heaven, ready to book a ticket to Texas to visit his new buddy.

Maddy’s package

Maddy’s letter was more like a tiny book with pictures drawn by her penpal and little notes throughout. It was perfect for Maddy, as was the Tiny Petshop Octopus that was included; she literally sang and danced she was so happy to open it.

She, too, opened a cool chalk holder, Elvis stickers (no joke!), postcards, and pencils–all totally had Maddy hooked.

Little Cora was also kindly included in the package–a small, divided Texas plate was for her, and she loves having something special to use at meals and snacks.

Thank you so much to our penpal family at Digital Reflections!!

Maddy’s thank you notes

Today, Maddy and Owen worked on short ‘thank you’ notes for their penpals. We kept them simple, and although they didn’t feel up to writing much, I still think it’s important for them to get in the habit of composing short notes of thanks after they receive a gift.

I cannot thank Christy or Denise enough for coming up with the cool idea behind the Super Summer Swap.

Any authentic reason to get our little ones reading and writing–and researching and planning–for a purpose that genuinely interests them is what we ultimately strive for as parents and teachers.

At least that’s what this sneaky teach mama strives for over here, and I love it when my bloggy pals help me out in the endeavor!

Thanks for subscribing to teachmama! Have a good one!

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About amy mascott

teacher, mother, dreamer. lover of literacy, fun learning, good food, and three crazy-cool kids. finder of four-leaf clovers | dc metro ยท http://about.me/amymascott
tweet with me: @teachmama

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loved our first @saltvinemd experience 

cannot wait to return!
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Everything we ordered we LOVED. Cannot wait to return. 

(Swipe to see what we ordered!)

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Congratulations to my pal @laura.tremaine ! 

This book WILL:
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I want this book to spark a million This book WILL:
๐ŸŽˆEncourage you to look around at your current life landscape to really SEE your acquaintances, coworkers, neighbors, and friends
๐ŸŽˆFill you with gratitude for the friendships of your past
๐ŸŽˆOffer suggestions for how to navigate the complications of modern friendship
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Are you fed up with lawmakersโ€™ inaction, too? 

Join me & turn your anger into action with @MomsDemand by texting FED UP to 644-33. #FedUp #MDpolitics 
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Tomorrow I will spend time with fellow @MomsDemand volunteers & survivors to demand our lawmakers take action on gun safety. 

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#notonemore #dosomething #useyourvoice

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