Noisy Day Silent Night

Friday marked the last day of the fall semester, as well as the beginning of our Christmas break.

It was a half day for the students, and as usual, downright crazy! 

While many of my students' families do not actually celebrate Christmas, they do use this time to travel. Some were going to Japan to experience snow and skiing. Others to a more tropical Asian setting.

Several students were traveling to North America to celebrate with their extended families. One to Canada, a couple others to the United States of America.

But, for many, Christmas will just be a normal day. Our party would be their only Christmas celebration.

Needless to say, excitement filled the air. 

Earlier in the week, I had  shared one of my favorite childhood Christmas traditions- caroling. I told of bundling up in coats, hats, and mittens to battle the Ohio winter. Of walking through snow and huddling around unsuspecting friends' doors. The reward, of course, being cookies and hot chocolate afterwards.

Throughout the week, we practiced several traditional carols- Silent Night, Joy to the World, and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. While we had recently experienced colder weather, the expected high of the day was 73 degrees. Despite the bright sunshine and warming sun, several showed up with the necessary gear. It was quite interesting to see bulky winter coats,  fuzzy warm gloves, and comfy toboggans.  Hushed giggles and whispers followed as we tiptoed into the library, the first stop of our roaming concert.

Not only did my students love sharing the good news of Jesus through song, the audience also seemed to enjoy the "interruption".

I truly enjoyed the experience, as well as my students. I am positive caroling will become a 2nd grade tradition in the coming years!