Colonial Christmas

Whew. We made it. In fifth grade at Westminster, the last week of school before Christmas break is a big deal. It is Colonial Christmas. You don't really get an idea of how big a deal until you've been through it. I'll be better prepared for Ally's turn . . . maybe.

They start in November by selecting an occupation and begin the process of gathering information for a "research" paper. They also draw names to see for whom they will be making a home made colonial gift. Of course you also have to make "tools" of the trade to display during your presentation to the class and then again, to the entire school. And if you are going to be the part, you also must look the part. One colonial school teacher dress coming up.

Closer to the date, the parents are sent home a list of foods needed for the lunch and ways to either help or provide supplies for the activities. I needed a colonial bread and would be sending in supplies to decorate gingerbread people. Easy enough.

The week before the big event, Hayden did her research and wrote her paper. A couple of proofs later, she finished the paper and was ready to make her tools. And the dress was in process. Her teacher sent an email out soliciting more help. Sure, I can make 2 dozen gingerbread people.

Thankfully, the dress was completed on the morning of her oral presentation. Next up the gingerbread people. Oh, by the way, nobody else wanted to mess with the cookies, could I just make all 4 dozen. My exact reply: "What's 24 more? Sure."

By Friday, I was strung out on ground ginger and we had barely finished the sleeping cap for her gift. However, Hayden did a fantastic job with her paper, her tools and her presentation. It was worth all the sweat, sleepless nights and poked fingers to see her smile in her dress!