1 mile: Today while I was running, I reflected back on the tiny little voices before lunch who told me..

Mrs. Amoscato...I don't even like recess...

Can I just stay in the classroom with you? I can even do work..

Though probably not a good decision on my part, I let them stay in because I am pretty sure I used to be that kid

my brother as well

who really disliked recess in elementary school.We played soccer outside and even then

the ball was stolen or someone showed poor sportsmanship or would make the teams uneven so we were on

the losing team. Recess was certainly a time of dread not necessarily dreams being fulfilled on the blacktop..I get it

I much preferred hanging out in the classroom

reading a book or playing a game. 

I thought about the classroom today and the importance of creating a home

a home that always has an open invitation

A home that doesn't say "no" or "I'm too busy" or "recess cuts into my planning period" but a teacher who says

"of course" or "I would love to talk to you" or "if this is your place of comfort then my door is always open..."

An open invitation means the classroom is a home where anyone is welcome at any time

and if this turns vulnerability and dread into family..

well-it is serving its perfect purpose