So, I was sitting on the floor, teaching Art in Kindergarten. Basically teaching Art in K involves attempting to start by reviewing what we did the week prior and when ONE kid remembers I get giddy with excitement. Usually they just say: "Where is the paint and paper? We want to make something NOW". We were having our dismissal circle, and one very sweet girl raised her hand very solemnly and I figured she DEFINITELY would have something smart and constructive to say, so I called on her and she said:
"Miss Iraina, why are you wearing those pants?"
And I was all like: "What pants, little girl? What do you MEAN? They are black..."
"They are sweatpants."
"No, they are not."
"Yes they are."
"Prove it!" She points at the Nike emblem on the pocket. I told you she was smart.
"Well, what is wrong with that? Sometimes, in your guys' class, I sweat. So, these pants are PRACTICAL."
Other girl: "Like now, are you sweating?"
"No...."
"But your face is all red...."
And again I was all like: "NO, IT'S NOT, kid."
And she said: "YES, your cheeks are so red."
I touched around on my face and remembered that I had put on make up this morning without the added benefit of a mirror and she might very well be right.
Boy: "You ARE sweating, though."
"Well, NOW I am, now that I am being grilled."
"Don't be silly, there is no grill in here...."
Then I remember how I love them.
And I do. Because while all this is going on my little special needs boy, who used to say absolutely nothing and basically just ignored me and the fact that there was Art going on, has mozied on up to me and he is giggling and he keeps saying: "Miss Iraina, Miss Iraina" and I realize he is one of the few little ones who does not call me Miss Lorraina and he holds a picture he finished of something I am extremely fuzzy on, and he giggles hysterically and hands it to me: "Miss Iraina, this picture of the flowers- I made it for you. Just you. And, I imagine it smells like you. You know, like the weeds."
