Images Literary and Arts Magazine

Caitlin Fong 4th grade

Images The editorial staff of the Chandler Images Literary and Arts Magazine would like to thank all of the students who submitted their writing and art to the 2011 edition.

There were many superb and exciting entries. We tried our best to select work from both the lower and middle school. Unfortunately, we could not publish all the pieces that were entered. We hope that you enjoy reading the poetry, stories, and essays.

The photographs, illustrations, and cover designs are also expressive and creative.

We feel that the combination of writing and visual expression is powerful, and we hope that it pleases you.

Sponsor: Donna Dretzka Synthesizer: Bob Kondrath The 2010-11 Editorial Staff: Sam Hood Hudson Fega Cailin Beadles Roland Lam Gabriel Salazar Jordan Jones Austin Richards Tyler Moffat Joseph Heupler Emily Wright

Phillip Ma Kelly Hsu Dylan Gomez Samantha Rivas Claire Stanley Brandon Kawada Mallory Neithart Theodore Rosenfeld Jonah Sacks

Cover design by Anna Gong - 5th grade

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Images My People Reach down and touch the ground, Feel the dirt and earth run through your hands, This is the earth that I come from A nation so young And the land with so much to tell Feel the joy from that earth The laughter of so many people And feel the pain in that earth The blood of so many who gave their lives And feel the sun The sun that has burned the earth with its mark And under which people have labored And see the people The people who work hard and long And it is these people who work that I come from The people that may not be perfect But who work for what they want These are my people Who come home tired and hungry But who make a difference every day These are my people Peter Culpepper 8th grade

Coreen Grant, 7th grade

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Images My Paradise Looking out into endless miles of bright blue sea Sea turtles Dolphins Multi-colored fish All swimming in peace Without a care in the world The warm water gently washes over my toes The smooth sand makes a blanket over my feet Salty air fills my nose after every wave The warm sun beats down on my neck But as time drifts by me The air cools The waves silent Shades of pink and orange Drape the sky I am getting hungry I can taste the Pork Pineapple Rice And mango In my mouth I feel a sudden burst of excitement I feel my hips swaying to the beat of the drum Boom Boom Boom But as night falls My legs begin to weaken I fall into my bed With white sheets And plush comforter I fall asleep to the sounds and Smells of my Paradise.

Monica Maceo 8th grade

Dolphins - Donnan Laudeman - 4th Grade

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Images La Cañada Memories of playing in Memorial Park in the summer with my sisters.

Of reuniting with family friends during the annual Memorial Day Parade.

Of spending a fun afternoon in the town’s bookstore.

Of eating at the same restaurants every week.

Of walking my dogs around the block.

Of eating ice cream at Penguins with my dad on a lazy Saturday afternoon.

Of going to a store where everbody knows my name.

Of relaxing by the pool on a sunny summer day.

Of walking to Descanso Gardens, spending the day learning more about nature.

Of spending Sunday mornings listening to stories at Penelope’s.

Of a small, tight-knit community where I always feel safe and welcome.

My hometown, La Cañada.

Kaley Liang 8th grade

Henry Whitford - 3rd grade

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Images Summer An endless stretch of baby-blue sky And clouds white and soft as whipped cream on pie The sparkle of sunlight on a gently flowing stream With moss on the gnarled roots of a tree Emerald-green grass in between my toes Sweet scent of flowers tickles my nose The warmth of the sun seeps into my skin The sound of leaves rustling in the wind A gentle breeze rushes through my hair And birdsong echoes through the air My heart wants to leap out and soar To peer down with the sun at the whole world Shaya Naimi 4th Grade

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Serena Lee - 1st grade

Images Big Oak Tree So tall And solid So old And wise So weathered And secure Big oak tree It sprinkles me With leaves and sticks As the wind Shakes its ancient branches Big oak tree It waves to me And creeks with delight As a grandfather would To a grandchild I smile Feeling special I stand taller In hopes to gain His respect

Madeleine Pearce - 4th grade

Connor Greenwood 8th grade

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Images I Am Me I used to be a rose bud Stuck beneath the brush But now I am a full-bloomed rose Glimmering in the sun.

I used to be a raindrop Lost, alone in the sky But now I am a rainbow Strong, bright and beautiful.

I used to be oblivious to all the horrors around me the poverty, the pain, but now I am aware and doing my best to help.

I used to be a puppet Controlled by those around me But now I am the puppet master Of me, myself, and I Erin Williams 8th grade

Chloe Daniel - 4th grade

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Images The Land of Corn I come for a farm, where Indians roamed the land, traveling by horse, The land of corn, Cuidad de Maiz, the cows graze freely on endless plains, the horses run wild I come from a town where everyone knows everyone.

The Sunday gatherings where we would come together to share our faith, The laughter that filled the streets, the stories under the moon, the flea markets where one would buy fruits and vegetables, I come from a land where all is considered family, traditions and customs make me who I am , proud, proud to me, proud to Mexican.

Marlene Guzman 8th grade

The Shredder - Carson Smith - 4th grade

Images of Grandpa’s Old Garden Waiting for spring when all the vegetables and fruits grow.

Unlimited amounts of watermelons, peaches, apples, and oranges, Calling to me.

Vegetables to bring home.

The freshness of the mint and basil tingle my taste buds, The aroma of leeks to put in hot bowls of soup, And lemons and limes to brighten the flavors.

With anticipation, all the grandchildren run into the garden.

For when the garden grows, It is a sure sign of spring.

Michelle Chen 7th grade 9

Images I Came from, I Come from, I Will Come from I came from a world embraced with communism No personal religion, no personal wealth, no personal anything. . .

I came from a door that separates present and past With old memories and new animated stories I come from a colorful world now Not just black and white I come from a beautiful now with differences Not just plainness.

I will go to the next world after this With unknown secrets that have not been resolved I will go to a world that is unique I hope to share stories back in the one before it.

Victor Ma 8th grade

Hayden Tapert, 7th grade

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Images Gauntlet with a Velvet Glove Went to boarding school at seven Scrawniest of all kids Blossomed with adversity Like a cactus flower Mast of Kung Fu Fluent in four languages Japanese, Chinese, English, and Spanish Amazing with scissors Calligraphy sprouted for its tips Eningeer turned businessman Magician, chef, artist and more Always wore a smaile Warm as the ten o’clock sun Survivor of brain surgery Never out without a cap Grandma’s constant companion Complete only when together Like a chopstick to each other Despite her black moods Were dark as inky clouds Supported her with tender strength For years after her stroke To the end he stood by her Strong as a boulder Yet gentle as a lamb Lost him in 2006 Grandpa I want to grow up To be just like you.

Roland Lam 8th grade

Rhiannon Calhoun - 3rd grade

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Images What Is Orange What is orange? A Koi Fish is orange In the waters of Japan.

What is green? An ogre is green.

This is a person who is grumpy and mean.

What is brown? Dirt is brown, A plain color that may make you frown.

What is white? Paper is white, Letting you imagine an exciting sight.

What is red? A rose is red In a peaceful flower bed.

What is yellow? Blond is yellow The color of the hair of one of my fellows.

What is pink? My brain is pink something that helps me think.

Jinho Myung 3rd grade

Ian Hamilton, 7th grade Orange Is. . .

Orange is an autumn pumpkin Orange is a number 2 pencil It’s poppies waving in the breeze It’s Mojave Desert’s sand Orange is a bearded dragon in the month of May Orange is a fierce and scary tiger catching all its prey.

Jinho Myung 3rd grade

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Images

Dying Flower Winter arriving Cold nipping what used to be a bud Closing wings, just trying to stay warm But losing color and strength, More and more for every tick of the clock A miracle, the life it has lived Fading, fading, Sucked into the howl of the night.

Mira Conyers 7th grade

Yumi Balthazar - Jaya Sadda - 3rd grade

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Images My Hometown The laughing, the splashing in the neighborhood pool The jokes and the giggles, walking home from school The smell of those daffodils, the bloomed once a year All those fun times that bring great cheer This is my hometown It is the lock to my key And the setting to my story All of my fondest memories I’ll never forget those snowy afternoons Where we zoomed down the hill The frosty wind in my face The brilliant exhilaration Those were the days Those carefree days Back in my hometown, Gathersburg, Maryland.

Erin Williams 8th grade

Jaya Sadda - 3rd grade

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Images How Much Do I Love You? Grandma, you are enjoyable and loving You always buy me toys, making me full of joy You cook delicious Chinese food that I really like eating We go to the park with Tracy and Champ We also play together I love you Grandfather, you are wise You are also responsible and hard working We play with your cat and teach it tricks I also enjoy sitting down and watching television with you I love you I remember - you came to visit, and I was so excited I remember - we lived near you, and we would visit you I remember - I was little, and I held your cat by its tail in mid-air I remember - I crawled into your dog’s house and locked myself in there I remember - I went on the ship with you, and I wore your captain’s hat I remember - we ate at a restaurant to celebrate your birthday, And I made you a birthday card that said, “I love you!”

I always enjoy my time with you, and I hope you enjoy your time with me, too.

Most importantly, you need to know that I love you forever.

Madeleine Chiu 5th grade

Dexter Renick and Kyle Gangi - 4th grade

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Images I Can See I can see The world so high With cherry blossoms That touch the sky.

I can see people Some rich, are poor So unfortunate I can see The world swirling around With winds that never touch the ground.

I can see The world so high With cherry blossoms That touch the sky.

Caitlin Wackerly 2nd grade

Andrew Rosenfeld and Kyle Gangi - 4th grade

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Images

Weather Haikus Rainy Day

Snowflakes

It was raining hard Rainy Louisiana Pouring down on me

In the cold, cool air Tiny, white flakes slowly fell down As the clouds rolled in

Sohni Kaur 6th grade When Purple Strikes

The beautiful soft flakes Twirled as they fell onto my nose And Softly melted

Driving in the car Raining with the power of fists Purple lightning strikes

As laughs filled the streets They fell faster and faster And made many smile

Dean Johnson 6th grade

Alyson Lo 6th grade

As the Thunder Crashed It was cold and wet, And the trees were bent over As the thunder crashed People were hiding And the whole world went quite As the thunder crashed Rhiana Boyles 6th grade 17

Images The Black Floor Floors of trash speckled our oceans, A layer of disgust And in 20 years nothing but trash, will line our sea.

A piece of trash today, An animal’s life tomorrow, The sand drifts through the hourglass, As the littering disease spreads, Waiting to explode.

All around us we see it, and say nothing, Our silence is just as deadly as our pollution.

Sam Tufenkian 7th Grade

Matthew Gamboa - 2nd grade

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Images Past, Present, Future I was a spark of a fire That destroyed the beautiful forest I was a tiny sand particle on the beach That made people happy by stepping on me I was a flashing light in the city That makes the world beautiful at night I was a light beam from the sun That makes the world shine again But now I am one of the shooting stars who can carry the world I am the 26th artist of artists of Haiti With Justin Bieber, Akon, T-pain, P!nk, and Kanye Wst I am one of the prayers for Japan Hope that they can reach the finish line I will be an old man Who will be musing through the great memories I will be in the earth And the next generation will be the fire Victor Ma 8th grade

Leon Kuo - 2nd grade

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Images Dancing on Stage Nervous, Waiting off stage.

Waiting for my moment to shine.

Seeing the light, Blinding me like a deer in headlights at night.

My mind is blank The music starts.

I hear the audience clap.

There’s no turning back.

I feel sparks rise from my head to feet.

Ready to show them my love of dance Feeling the beat of the song.

I knew the dance all along.

Feeling like a princess In my sparkly yellow dress I’ve accomplished the night of my dreams.

Olivia Taverner 8th grade

Starry Night The flickering stars Dancing in the bright moonlight Singing goodnight kids!

Grace Hitchcock 3rd grade

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Images I always love winter the most you can be warm sitting by the fire eating cookies and marshmallows actually, roasted marshmallows and fruit cakes and ham then going outside to play with the snow and make snowmen and have snowball wars and make snow angels and ski then go inside to drink eggnog and hot chocolate and eat more marshmallows then go to sleep Hudson Fega 8th grade

Candles Hanna Barakat - 6th grade

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Images A Hike to Remember

A Hike

Fresh air surrounds us No urban area in sight Mountains to my left Hikers to my right I scratch my leg I feel an itch Goosebumps all over my body Dirt between my toes Our meals are ready Canned food And rice And crackers And lots of granola Singing with friends And laughing And crying And growing in ways Never imaginable Rigid sleeping Rolling and feeling a sharp pang Adventures Like no other.

Caroline Wolfe 8th grade

I’m so excited. A hike! A hike!

Here it is, the fantastic trail.

I’ll run it from start to finish.

Halfway there, I’m so tired.

Maybe I should quit right here.

If I look far I can see the end.

Maybe I won’t quit here.

Walking and running up to the finish And what do I see?

Just a hill to climb.

Now I really see the end, With a hill or two in-between.

Now I’m here with a nice waterfall and nice, cool rocks.

I’m happy, I never quit.

Now it’s time to walk back.

While the sound of the waterfall hits the rocks.

Chloe Daniel 4th grade

Rowena Harvey - 3rd grade

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Images My First Step on American Soil Got my luggage, Walking down the aisle of the airplane.

Going past though the door of mystery, Let me in!

The smell of fresh air.

Different people from all nations.

The light blue sky.

A whole different language flowing through my ears.

The music, On the radio.

No skyscrapers.

Just houses, And low buildings.

Arriving at the hotel, Walking into the room, Finally lying on the bed, And waking, What a nice sleep!

Victor Ma 8th grade

Sarah Smith - 3rd grade

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Images The Crush

My Roots

Looking, wishing he would turn around When he does, I turn the other way Dragging your fingertips between the roots of your hair Feeling sweat on the back of my neck Rubbing my toes against the tip of my shoes Everything is silent Hoping to get another look He is gone Feeling annoyed with myself I pick the dirt from beneath my fingernails Maybe I will see him again I secretly keep an eye out for him God has answered my prayer He walks kicking pebbles in front of his feet My heart races It beats to a favorite song I feel the sweat On the back of my neck Beginning to form Walking closer towards him, He begins to lift his arm And eventually waves My fingers twitch It feels as though my body shuts down Not wanting to seem rude I nod He continues to wave Even after I pass him When I turn around The cool crisp air Hits my nose and forehead I realize he was waving to a buddy My steps begin to speed up The backs of my shoes Rub against my ankles I turn back around My last chance But he is gone Wishing I had never fallen for a guy I brush it off And decide to erase it from my memory

I come from women Loud, crazy, strong, respected, and honorable women I come from a place with no privacy Where mothers, sisters, and cousins know everything I come from honesty And sometimes, too much of it A place of sharing and spreading I come from sharing Whether a funny story or a sad reality It all comes to play at the dinner table I come from helping Something as simple as helping apply makeup To reconstructing a broken heart Most importantly I come from caring Friends and family that never seem to fail me From warm hugs and lots and lots of love

Jasmine Johnson-Bowles 8th grade

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Alyssa Evans 8th grade

Ava Delarossa - 1st grade

Images Down by One “30 SECONDS BRAXTON!” I look up at the scoreboard The crowd is on its feet The loudest I have ever heard them This is what I have dreamed about 29 28 27 No need to look up to see the time left The crowd is shouting it 26 25 24 I dribble the ball past half court Time is getting slower 23 22 21 Coach is saying something But the crowd is drowning out his voice 20 19 18 This is what we dreamed about The rest of the season depends on one stroke of my hand 17 16 15 Both teams are on their feet It is impossible to rest at this point 14 13 12 Excitement and fatigue are battling inside of me No winner is in sight 11 10 9 8 Time is slowing down 7 6 5 4 3 2 The shot is up 1 I’m hit so hard I don’t know where the ball went EEEEEEHHHHHHHH The ref’s whistle goes off “TWO SHOTS” Braxton Williams 8th grade

A Fire Is Started Persisting in endearment But surrounded by hatred Always questioned Never trusted Is love intended Or control Yet, I am always hers Or his Never theirs A fire is started It burns on me I feel the air I feel the flame It destroys me I am weakened And only water can save me She heals me Soothes And can always smell My burns Caroline Wolfe 8th grade 25

Images Darkness Silky darkness, gloaming, glooming Cold as fire and warm as rime And the darkness is unbroken, Unperturbed as like a newborn Knowing nothing of the earth Or sea and land, or space and time Darkness is there, cool and soothing Accepting all, refusing none Receiving all living being in kind To sink into its void of slumber Providing rest and peace of mind Simple relief from thoughts’s inferno Wherein the fires of despair And spint, and greed, and hate are quenched Interlude from world of strife I chance to just drop out of life And rest in slumber’s peaceful halls The darnkess provides all Matilda Berke 6th grade

Long Ago Now dust cover the bones Of the mighty ones Who ruled the earth In days far gone And lived through years of trial Lacking civilization Now all that’s left to tell your tale Are dusty bones turned rock by fossilization How you survived We may never know But the shifting sands coer The last remnants of Long Ago Matilda Berke 6th grade

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Images Ocean Blue The ocean, Filled with children’s commotion, Some days, churning, frothy water, And temperature getting hotter.

Othe days, the water flows with graceful ease, And the wind blows a mistry breeze, When the sun shines on the sand and waves, The beach is what a child craves.

Sand castles, surfing, snorkeling too, There are so man things at the beach to do, Sand so wamr and soothing, That bear feet love smoothing.

When the sun sets, we gaze up at the sky, To look at brilliant colors that make one sigh, And when the sun fades and the people are gone, The creatures of the ocean come out to frolic before dawn.

Fish swim under the sea, Crabs and seagulls rest in the shade of a tree, The Ocean full of sea life commotion, A frothy, turquoise, bubbling potion.

Yes, it’s a wonderful ocean, Always in motion.

Keep the beautiful azure sea alive, Let the plants and animals thrive.

A place for you and me to play, Until the end of the day, The colorful, cerulean ocean, so true, Oh, so brilliantly blue, Our ocean!

Kami Durairaj 6th grade Sahale Greenwood, 6th grade

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Images Boats for Feet I used to be six years old and short like a shrimp, but now I am fourteen years old, five foot eight inches tall, and can easily peer over my mother.

I used to be totally dependent on my parents as my guide to what is right and wrong, but now I make important decisions on my own.

I used to be afraid of heights, but now I am much braver and can peer over the edge of a cliff, or ride to the twenty-second floor in an elevator without letting fear or vertigo get the best of me.

I used to be as slow as a new born puppy, but now I am as agile as an eagle.

I used to be pretty clueless about how to get ahead in the world, but after attending Chandler School, I have learned that it takes a lot of hard work to acheive your goals.

I used to be an average basketball player, but now at fourteen years old, I have worked really hard to become a highly competitive beast of a player.

I used to be afraid of the baseball when I stood up at bat, but now I face my fears and swing for the fence.

I used to have very small feet, but now I am a teenager and have boats for feet.

Gabriel Salazar 8th grade

Pet Dog - Blake Neithart - 3rd grade

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Images Phoebe A baby girl crying with Tears rolling down her cheeks And red eyes Dogs crowding over her And licking her face Mother breaking through the crowd And swooping the baby up.

She feeds her with the bottle Of baby milk Cradles the newborn baby in her arms Pats her head, and Looks in her eyes.

Mother humming And the baby closing her eyes.

In the cradle, the baby is sleeping Soundlessly With her favorite horse I see My new baby sister.

Autumn Snyder 8th grade

Ava Alms - 1st grade

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Images I Am I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

am courageous like a lion feel the heat of the South in my veins move fast like a fox wonder at the stars hear sounds of the birds strive to reach my potential see opportunity all around me want weekends to last touch greatness thrive on the adrenaline of competition hope for peace dream of playing basketball try to do my best hope for happiness am courageous like a liong

Gabriel Salazar 8th grade

Kaley Mitchell - 6th grade

Shaya Naimi - 4th grade

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Images I am the small black beetle, crawling over the desert sand with the sun beating on my back, I am the tiny moon jelly, undulating is the deep blue of the ocean, I am the milky kite, circling overhead keeping one eye on prey, and one on predator I am the tangle of weeds in the garden, a nuisance but beautiful in its own right, I am the needle of a pine tree, surrounded by so many others, I am the scale on the lizards that warm its back and give warmth and energy, I am the stone from the ocean, round and smooth from abrasion, I am the coral of the tide pools which is rough and colored, My eyes are the shells of snails, spiraling down and down and never ending My hands are the bricks of the wall, which build the city from the ground, My ears are that of a jackal, hearing the sounds of the desert night My thoughts are that of the deep blue ocean and the clear blue sky.

Peter Culpepper 8th grade

Kaley Mitchell - 6th grade

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Images Earthly Connections I take a seat next to the unusually swollen creek, I close my eyes for I have no more need for them, I bask in the ancient magic of the canyon, I set the bottom of my didgeridoo atop an old log, elevated over the gurgling snow melt, I correct my posture, this encounter is important, breathe in – breathe out, I begin our discussion.

The didgeridoo begins to sing, propelled by spirits, the haunting vibrations travel through the un-refined sand and awakens the beetles, the melody travels swiftly across the roaring river, the resonance bounces between the massive granite boulders of the dried river beds, reserved for flash floods, the hum weaves through the fragrant eucalyptus trees and bizarre yucca cacti, I eagerly await nature’s response.

The song echoes back to me, distorted but graceful, I have made the connection, and interpret my new found wisdom, I realize what he is telling me, and feeling humbled, to this higher power that has recognized me, I stand up, and begin my hike home, as I tear myself away from spiritual experience, as to not overstay my welcome, I travel back to the world of material with my didge across my shoulders, planning to expand my skills as it is my new found vocabulary, the aboriginal devise of communication, farewell, till next time, earthly connections.

Connor Greenwood 8th grade

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Images The Eye of the Tiger The The The The The The The The The The

bright green grass screaming kids excited parents pink and whit polk-a-dot uniforms happiness on the little faces scrapes on the knees from falling look on my dad’s face when I score a goal tired looks of early morning coffee in the parents’ hands smile of my face from winning my game

Taylor Bauman 8th grade

Bump, Set, Spike I always love beach volleyball The hot sand beneath my feet Cool breeze coming from the ocean Looking at the opponents on the other side Watching the toss for the serve fly up And the contact of the serve The ball is over!

I pass the ball And it is perfect My teammate sets it While the other team is getting ready to pass the hit, I spike as hard as I can Score!

Cailin Beadles 8th grade

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Images Cold Night The skiff streaked across the glassy sea, turning the dark water in its wake to milky foam. A loon keened its mournful cry. Twice more it called – then all was silent, save for the rhythmic thrumming of the boat’s engine. Then, even this noise ceased, as the boat smoothly glided to a halt, in front of a rather nondescript clump of reeds. An omnious shadow moved slowly through the eater, gaining spee as it went, rising gradually from the murky depths where it had lurked, waiting. . .watching. This went unnoticed by the owner of the skiff, a man, who was, even now, under the pretense of fishin, keenly gazing deep into the waves, past the ripples and the silvery baitfish darting below the surface, until his eyes came to rest on a gleaming iron object, half buried in the thick mud that blanketed the bottom of the estuary. He smiled grimly. With a covetous gleam in his eyes, he began to slip on a crude mask. Suddenly, he noticed ripples heading in his direction. “Strange. . .” the man muttered, under his breath.

Glancing up from the object of his interest, he stared suspiciously into the tightly packed reeds that he had anchored next to. There was no movement or sound, except for the eerie swich of the reeds in the wind. “I know you’re out there – and I’ll you – even if I have to chase you to the ends of the earth to do it!” the man gritted between clenched teeth. Returning his attention to the gloomy water, he stared hard, hoping to find what he was looking for. “By God, I lost it again!” The man bit his lip in frustration, but as dawn was nearing, he started paddling away, not wanting to risk any noise from the engine. A hiss issued from behind him. Instinctively, he straightened up. Fearfully, slowly, he turned around, and a chill ran down his spine, suddenly conscious of the cold, yellow, reptilian eyes facing him. “Easy now. Staaay back,” he warned, as he began to draw his gun from the pouch on his back where he always kept it. The creature saw the steely glint of moonlight catching on the barrel, and moving quickly, it seized the boat in its monstrous jaws, overturning it into the murky abyss.

There was the sound of a shot, a smell of gunpowder, and the limp body of the serpent slid silently into the water – leaving behind it a smashed boat, a smoking rifle, and bloodstains on the water. All was silent. It had been, indeed, a cold night.

Matilda Berke 6th grade

Sahale Greenwood - 6th grade

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Images Awaiting in the fungi, A round and blobby sight. . .

A mushroom sits patiently Standing still in the dead of night!

Just waiting to be plucked, Plucked and pulled, and washed and cleaned. . .

This eerie piece of fungi. . .

It’s much more than it seems!

Grew up in piles of Manure and dirt and darkness. . .

Its now ready to be diced, to be chopped, And cut with that knife that’s the sharpest!

Sautéed, or sizzled, In sauce or soufflé, This clever, cunning mushroom, Can go every many ways!

Innocent spots and cute little Waves in the wind, This quick-witted flop of a fungi, Will simply make your head sping!

You either like them, Or hate them, I’m really somewhere in-between. . .

You either despise them, Or you adore them!

Their dark brown fans quite velveteen!

Oh, mushrooms, My mother love you, My father hates you. . .

Whatever shall I do?

You’re a mushroom, mushroom, So clever, so strange. . .

Should I like you?

Should I hate you?

Oh what’s a girl to do?

Sabrina de Brito 6th grade

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Images

Who I Am I am the mist in the mountains, always looming overhead I am the leader in the pack I am the strongest sequoia tree amonst the others in the forest I am breeze of a summer’s wind I am the stripes of my button down shirt I am the fireworks of the 4th of July I am the one to set the example for future generations I am the modification in your factory settings Sometimes I am the one to fall just short I am the programmer of my own system Kevin Murray 8th grade

Kevin Murray - 8th grade

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Images Tempura Bar Fourteen seats in a row The last two on the right in a slight angle The coveted corner Where my family was always seated Party of four The end place next to the wall With the slightly stained and worn paint on the wall A most familiar sight My spot ever since I was born Almost every week We share our much-anticipated dinner At the Tempura Bar At the Thousand Cranes In the New Otani Hotel In Little Tokyo Our favorite drinks would come without any verbal exchange The kind managers, waiters, and waitresses Who could read our minds Every need and want anticipated Yama-San A fixture of the establishment Master chef turned friend over the years Behind the long bar showcasing seafood, vegetables and more Sound of ice cubes colliding in the mixing bowl of tempura batter Coated pieces gone into sizzling oil The extra, extra long chopsticks Pulled the irresistible morsels Out of the deep frying pan Onto the delicate paper in front of each place setting

A few grains of delicate sea salt from Japan Sometimes a squeeze of lemon too Other times, tempura sauce with dikon But For me Never, never any ginger My favorite The delicate, butterflied, boneless Japanese Smelt Fish Cannot wait to taste The thrill of the contact With my front teeth and lips Of the piping hot food The faint smell of hot oil The almost inaudible light crunch of the feather light batter Now like snow Enveloping the juicy fish Chased down by Dobumushi a matsutaki mushroom broth With a drop of lime juice It fed more than my stomach It warmed my heart and soul Like my early childhood A thing in the past Remains only My longing and The irreplaceable memories.

Roland Lam 8th grade

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Images What Am I I I I I I I I I I I

feel like a square in the middle of circles. feel like a small bird traped in a large cage. am as lost as hiker without a map. am as quiet as a midnight forest. am as loud as the crashing waves on the shore. am like a wolf ; I need a pack to survive. am blooming flower in a dew-dropped meadow. feel like an un-tuned guitar. feel like a ghost; my voice is rarely audible. am like an eagle, flying independently.

Kylie Paddock 8th grade

Ravi Durairaj - 6th grade

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Images

Collision I come from an overseas terrain, Where culture and technology collide, From this collision, Colossal skyscrapers rise, These towers deflect every ray of sunlight, Yet, there is no darkness in this land It is past midnight, The ocean of people flood the streets, The honking of horns deafen tourists Screaming street vendors shriek, selling their cheap goods, Yet, there is silence in this land, Past the skyscrapers and technology, Past the vehicles and hordes of people, Past the clouds of billboards and the cluster of spot-light red taxis, A culture is embedded in this city, From the cultural ideal of acting insanely and getting a task complete, To the ancient belief of Buddhism and a spiritual nirvana, This is where I come from, This is where my ancestors once lived, This is Hong Kong.

Gary Lee 8th grade

Ella DesHotel - 3rd grade

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Images What a Life Dogs roaring with anger outside, Tackling each other.

One sister singing And the other babbling.

Parents fighting Baby crying Eli being annoying as can be.

Cat fights Screams.

No quiet Just noise in And out No peace, Just eruption I ask my self How did I come upon a crazy family like this?

What a life!

Autum Snyder 8th Grade

Max Caragozian - 4th grade

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Images

Megan Hsu - 5th grade

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Images A Life Worth Living I come from the flesh and blood of hard workers Where goals are only achieved with perseverance Where fortune is only gained with a little elbow grease And where having a career is the path to be successful.

I come from a place where city life is a great distance Where my best friend is my horse Where my bedroom is the suite next to the lobby I come from a family with a Ma and a Pa I come from a family where I am the solely child.

I lived in a time much different than yours Where communication was only verbally with your kisser Where boys and girls played together outside Where letters were written and texts were not sent.

I come from an era much different than now.

I come from a family of hard workers I come from a family of love.

Caroline Wolfe 8th grade

Manya Lalwani - 1st grade

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Images El Pulgarcito de America Smallest country in Central America, At least that is what the map says.

He is not alone, For I am the smallest at school, too.

The only place I feel free Nothing compares to the grassy ďŹ elds, The serenity and the warm breeze The only place familiar to me where freedom makes the rules A taste of both, City life, And country life The spring rain falling On the newborn calves And with ďŹ erce thunder screaming in the mountains The place I love to call home The place I am proud of American-born, but Salvadorian at heart My adoptive home country, El Salvador Marjorie Hernandez 8th grade

Zara Castillo - 4th grade

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Images I Used to Be a Child I used to be a child, lost in my own world, speaking a language no one understood; but now I am no longer a child but a young adult waiting to discover the world.

I used to be quite, reserved, afraid to express myself and receive disapproval; but now I have a free spirit, running with the wind.

I used to be in the shadows, not knowing the world around me but now I see the dangers and I also see the beauty of life.

I used to be self-centered, only thinking about myself but now I put others in first.

I used to be a dreamer, dreaming of my future but now I realize I am the future.

I used to believe there were limitations but now I believe you can accomplish anything.

I used to be petrified of failure but now I see it as an opportunity to learn from my mistakes.

I used to be afraid to let go and fly on my own but now I think what is the worst thing that can happen, it’s my life, my mistakes.

Life is too short to be afraid.

Marlene Guzman 8th grade

Courtney Gangi - 2nd grade

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Images Poem of My Life Like the sea Calm and peaceful Filled with life inside Whipping together a hurricane when in rage Unique like a red rose In a green bush A caterpillar Waiting to discover the world Hoping to make a change As actors do in movies Making my own choices Like the river must choose in which direction to flow Filling every page of my life journal With new beginnings Searching for the missing puzzle pieces Trying to make the most of my life Marjorie Hernandez 8th grade

Emily Sam - 2nd grade

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Images Oregon

Where I Come From My roots Deep within me From inland to sea In Armenia Beautiful lakes To giant mountains To streams in the thousands I always admire my country Of Armenia Interminably changing And adapting to my new country My new home Yet always remembering my heritage My old home My favorite home In Armenia Arthur Ter-Zakarian 8th grade

I always believe that nature speaks to you seeing that green from the trees and yellow and the lime moss and the sunshine breaking through the leaves and birds mingling and the gleaming water flowing along the bank the sharp wind against my face and the mud beneath my shoesq and ducks and water bugs and mush sand and cool air all along the trail Carlo Taglioretti 8th grade

Mountain Village - Andrew Rosenfeld - 4th grade

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Images Where I Come From I come from a place where the sun and the moon never set A place where the sea is a pool of chocolate milk No fear of drowning in sweet paradise A place where the clouds are beds of cotton candy Eat away gravity I come from a place where the night and shadows live together A place where love drowns and sorrow lingers Fear to express and the unknown eats you alive A place where expectations are held high A time for me to fall I come from a place where night and day are two personalities A time to let go and do anything my heart pleases Moments of memories that never fade until the end A cloud that follows my every step and rains above my head No room for a mistake But oh how I love to dramatize Expand the truth a little Open mouths and wide eyes A twinkle in mine And the story left unsaid Alison Chi 8th grade

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Images Wild Animal Park Last summer my family went on a trip. I screamed when I got there. We stayed the entire day. We left around 5:00. So let the story begin. . .

I went to the Wild Animal Park with my family. The weather was hot like a pepper. I did not like it. My head started to hurt. I also went to a really cool petting zoo.

I raced in like a rocket. I got to feed the goats. The goats also tried to eat my hair. There was one goat who only had one eye.

Well, you’ve seen the goats. Come see the monkeys. There were two boys and one girl.

First, I saw the boys swinging. Then I saw the girl. There was also a baby monkey. He was as cute as a marshmallow.

I told you about the monkeys. I became hungry. It was lunch time. At about 11:00 we went to a burger and hot dog place. Mmmmmmm. I got a kid’s meal and so did my sister. It had a drink, cookies, and a hamburger.

We went on a train ride after that. It was fun. There were many types of animals there.

Some of the animals are endangered. The train ride was fun because we got to take lots of pictures. The train ride had a long line. It went by really fast, though that’s because the train was really long and held many passengers. Speaking of long, the train ride was long, too.

Right after the train ride, we saw a lion sleeping on a car. It was pretty funny. He was snoring so loud. Lots of people watched him.

He was also a full grown lion. He must have weighed 1,000 pounds! You don’t want to wake him up. His mane was so long. I bet no one cut his hair. He also had really sharp claws. Those things were like knives. Did I tell you how awful he smelled? He smelled like dog poop! Let me tell you, I almost three up.

Now let me tell yo about the birds.

There were so many. One had a Mohawk.

There was one really rare bird. I do not know the name, but it was cool.

Soon we had dinner. We got tired and went home. When I got home, I fell asleep.

Sarah Smith 3rd grade

Kyle Gangi and Andrew Rosenfeld - 4th grade

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Images I Come From I I I I I I I I I

come come come come come come come come come

from from from from from from from from from

long hours at school and weekends that are too short tiring soccer practices and hours of homework parents that work their hardest to provide for me teachers the devote their time to educate friends that I know will always be by my side neighbors who look out for each other a generation that is the future of America a school that is hard work, but worth the struggle in the long run a world where I determine my own future

Kayla Crinchlow 8th grade

The Departure The moonlight shone – reflecting off the waves Making all the night as bright as day As one sole gull keened mournfully And we put out to sea – we could not stay I looked back at the swiftly fading land The beloved place where I’d been born And gazed upon those mighty rolling hills – The endless, golden fields of stubble shorn A milky path of foam lay in our wake And sparkling stars gleamed brightly overhead Their light streamed out to grace the darkened skies As toward some unknown place our small craft sped And as we sailed away, across the seas I dreamed about the land I used to know Where I once played, and frolicked there, upon A summer’s day, one dusty long ago Matilda Berke 6th grade

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Images I Am From I am from moat that separates the glacier from the final rocky pitch of the summit.

I am from the conveniently placed flat rock over the deep, blue, oxygenated, pool full of hungry brown trout.

I am from the slot canyon between the ancient boulders of Joshua tree.

I am from the small, unkempt, soccer field that I play ultimate on every Sunday with all of my friends in the area.

I am from the rubber of bike tires, carrying me home from my friend’s house after a tranquil Saturday afternoon.

I am from the curve of the wave, bending over me, as I stand on my board, feeling proud and accomplished.

I am from the top of the wave behind a current, paddling ferociously to reach the small sandy beach on the other side.

I am from the vibrations produced by the aboriginals during their didgeridoo ceremonies.

I am from the small canyon a few blocks from my house, full of fish, snakes, quail and plants that make you question your own theories of nature.

I am from my home, with a loving mother, father and sister, who support me no matter what.

Connor Greenwood 8th grade

Jonathan Potter - 4th grade

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Images My Neighborhood My neighborhood is mostly occupied by elder and strangely active old folks with the exception of a couple teenagers. The styles of the houses are usually Spanish or craftsman.

The neighbors tend to be amazing, sweet, and caring to everyone around them. Although they are old, they are very active and participate in community service opportunities as much as possible.

Several months ago the line of oleander trees that ran up and down the street filled the neighborhood with bright splendid colors. Sadly, these trees got a disease and all died. The next month everyone went out on a Saturday morning and planted new trees all along the street.

All the neighbors are very involved in gatherings, like the block party that goes on every other year. At the top of the street, a huge party takes place biannually where there is food, drinks, tables, and even a bounce house for the younger kids. This is where I have met all my neighbors. It is a great opportunity to meet new people and even get to know them a lot better.

Even though most of my neighbors are sweet old people there are still the Sterlings. The Sterlings are like the Radleys. Everyone in the neighborhood is scared of them and does not like them. They always refuse to take part in the community gatherings or the block party.

Hudson Fega 8th grade

Ulltimate Skateboard Park - Ryan Waldheim - 3

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Images My Loving Aunt Jean My aunt’s name is Jean. I call her, Nona. She is a pastor at my church. She also does a lot of community service, too. She lives in Pasadena, California. She is American and has a little bit of African in her.

I have a great relationship with Nona because I see her almost every Sunday. After church, I always go to her house. She is very kind. She is kind because she does a lot of community service. She is also very giving. She is giving because she donates a lot of time to the church. Nona is fun because whenever I go over to her house, she plays Uno with me. One special memory I have of Nona was when we cleaned the garage together, and we found many old pictures of my grandpa, Nona, and me. Another special memory was when Nona and my family went to see the Rose Parade together. It was a special memory because it is the one time of year that almost all my family come together. Another special memory was when Nona, my family, and I went to the beach. That is special because we only get to go once a year, in the summer. Nona put her feet into the water and got out because it was too cold. We also had lunch together.

Nona, you are the best aunt ever. I think you are fun, generous, and kind. I love you so much.

Bryce Burch 5th grade

Madelleine Pearce - 4th grade

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Images Where I Come from

Giant Pandas I come from the islands, but not just any island.

I come from the waters clearer than glass.

I come from where the water feels fresh on the hand.

I come from where you can catch fresh bass.

I come from where the sun shines bright.

I come from where land is small but culture is loud.

I come from where I show bravery and might.

I come from where I stand proud.

I come from Jamaica.

Storm Scully 8th grade

Where I come from: Has no written history Just oral From the giant canoes That forced our pasts to be erased That brought us to 300 years of misery But the irony is that now My ancestors’ sacrifice Gave me a better life Better than people that stayed behind in the homeland And I will never forget their sacrifice And I will forever be respectful Braxton Williams 8th grade

The Swimmer - Carson Hasbrouck - 4th grade

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Images My Grandpa’s Cottage I remember going to my grandpa’s cottage near a lake in Wisconsin. My family would visit him every year during summer. I remember the first thing I would do is get out of the car, sprint to the dock, and gaze at all the bluegills that swam underneath the small aluminum dock. After staring for several minutes I would return back to the car, get the luggage, and unload it in my room in the cottage. After unloading I would go up to grandpa and ask, “Grandpa, can I have some bread to feed the fish?” He would smile and nod, then give me a piece of bread. I would quickly snatch the bread, run to the dock, and rip the bread into small bits and drop them into the water and watch as the fish slowly emerged from out of the mysterious dark waters to grab the bread.

I remember in the afternoons my brother and I would sit with our toes slightly in the water watching the sunset. These are my favorite memories of when I was a kid. I can clearly picture sitting on the dock with my brother Grant.

At night the whole family would eat at the dinner table and then after we would usually play solitaire or cribbage. I remember how much I hated cribbage and how my mom would be mad at me because I would be constantly complaining about how boring it was. I remember waking up at 5:30 with my mom to get in the canoe to go fishing. She had said that in the morning it was the best time to catch the big fish.

One day at around 6-6:30 my mom and I were near some lily pads when I cast my rod and I got a huge bite! I quickly tugged with all my strength, and I hooked it! After a couple minutes of reeling and careful maneuvering on my mom’s part, I caught the fish. It was a huge pike!

Those were the days I used to love. I remember how sad I was every time that my family had to leave. Every summer I look forward to visiting my grandpa and staying in the cottage for a week.

Hudson Fega 8th grade

Aaron Van Blerkom - 3rd grade

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Images The Depressing Ending Once there was a rabbit hopping away in the woods. Then, it heard a rustle through the bushes and out came the slimy and impatient snake. He laughed his evil laugh, then said, “Hello. My name is Evil Mike — I mean Mike. And, I‛ve come to eat you — I mean, uh. . . have a dinner with you. I‛ve seen that you don‛t have friends, so I came to be yours.”

“That‛s very nice of you. May I ask where you live and what you eat?”

“I live in 2000 Woody Shadows Evil Place, Snake Village, 91307.

I eat. . .I‛ll tell you later when I meet you. It‛s a surprise.”

Then Evil Mike went to his cave and told all his friends. His friends chattered and said all together, “How about the fastest snake gets the rabbit?”

“Okay,” Evil Mike agreed.

One snake said that he was allergic to rabbits, so he could be the judge. Luckily, the rabbit heard the whole conversation and moved to a faraway place, far from the woods. At 5:12 P.M. the race started.

First, Evil Mike checked if their dinner was hopping in the woods. No rabbit! No dinner! No happy endings! No nothing!!!! He quickly told his friends, and one of his friends joyfully said, “We should hunt another rabbit down, so we won‛t be depressed anymore.”

Evil Mike sadly said, “But, those rabbits are very rare to find in Woody Shadows Evil Place. They only come on Rabbit Eve.” “But, you always promised that we would find a rabbit! We‛re NOT going to be your friends anymore.” So they left, and Mike lived sadly ever after.”

Caitlin Wu 3rd grade

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Images My Loving Grandparents My grandma, Sandy, was born in Seoul, The capital of South Korea Was born in November Bringing love and joy My grandma had to carry her brother Up a seventy mile bridge To escape the Korean War. My grandpa, James, Born in Pyongyang City In North Korea In September Is as strong as the oxen who carried him south United with my grandma, so strong My grandpa escaped from North Korea He fought in the Korean War To make South Korea separate from North Korea He got shot and still survived My grandparents came to Seattle, Washington With my mom and her two brothers My grandparents now live in Los Angeles While at Griffith Park Riding horses and going on rides Eating ice cream in the hot sun So I can have some fun While in Palm Springs At the cool hotel Swimming and eating french fries We go to the arcade Battle each other in Guitar Hero We go for the weekend I love them so much That I cannot express my feelings My best memories are with my grandparents Bringing wisdom to my brain Bringing joy to my heart They love me, and I love them even more!

Lauren Park 5th grade

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Images The Best Grandparents Ever!

My grandma‛s name is Yo, but I call her Nana. My grandpa‛s name is Tony, but I call him Papa. They live in Altadena. Nana‛s hobbies are cooking and solving puzzles, such as Sudoku. Papa‛s hobbies are fishing, working in his backyard, and watching ESPN Sports.

Nana is very kind and considerate. Whenever I ask her to make me dinner she is ready to make my favorite, a baked potato. But, she also makes other foods because my brother, Prescott, wants meat all the time. Nana also picks me up from school and makes me the appetizers on the weekend, such as yummy bacon, delicious eggs, warm sausage, and sometimes spam, which goes great with Papa‛s pancakes. I love Nana, mostly for her generosity and loving heart. My mom tells me that what my grandparents give and do for me now, is not anything like what they did for my mom and her two brothers when they were growing up. When I want, Nana lets me spend the night with her. I stay up late to go on the computer or watch television.

Papa is always making me “Mickey” pancakes on the weekends, which I help him make, but he does most of the work. He also picks me up for school, helps me with my basketball, and takes me on vacations. Papa never yells or gets angry with me. If you asked what I see him doing the most, it would be working around the house, driving in the car to see me, or watching ESPN Sports on the television.

One of my memories of Papa was when he took me to McDonalds, and then we went to Eaton Canyon to eat the food. We would sometimes see snakes, and my brother and I would cross the tiny river there. When I picture Papa he is wearing a beautiful Hawaiian shirt that Nana gave him. He wears beautiful clothes every day to work. I love him, especially because he is very kind, caring, and is always looking out for me.

There are so many reasons why I love Nana and Papa, but if I had to choose one it would be that they are always there when I need them most. Even if I don‛t think I need them, they are there in the stands right next to me. I think I have the best, and I mean the best grandparents ever! Nana and Papa, I want you to know that I love you with all my heart. Even if I do not say I do, I want you to know that I do love you with all the love my heart can hold, I always have and I always will.

Sarah Johnson 5th grade

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Images Responsibility Responsibility is one of the six pillars of character. One example of responsibility is taking care of what you are supposed to do. Although there are six pillars of character, responsibility is just one of the many qualities that make up a good person. For example, if you were told to babysit someone else, then you have the responsibility to look after that person. If a person didn’t have responsibility then it would be hard to trust them. Responsibility will help you in life with many things such as if you need to get work done or if you are a quarterback on a football field and you need to know what to do.

Responsibility has lots of importance in life. No matter what, you will have to have at least a little responsibility some time. Responsibility is what helps you through school. Responsibility also helps you in being a parent and throughout adulthood. It also helps you in your teenage years with acne (and dating). Another example for responsibility is if you are the pitcher for your baseball team in an inning, then you are responsible for most of the inning.

I think responsibility is the most important of the six pillars of character because you cannot choose not to have it. You have to have it sometimes. Although others may have a different opinion of which pillar is best, I think responsibility is. Without responsibility, it would be very hard.

You would never be able to turn in your homework on time and you could not wake up in time for school or a job. You also could not brush your teeth and wash your face every day because you would not have responsibility. It would be good if everybody could be responsible. To me, responsibility is very important and I hope the reader has learned something from this article.

Max Rosenfeld 4th grade

Amanda Schaller - 4th grade

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Images I Used to Be Caroline and Now I Am Ms. Wolfe I used to be a child, learning how to walk, taking my first steps, depending on others; But now I am a teenager, expressing myself, and heading off to high school.

I used to be a kindergartener, watching the older kids walk by me, wishing to be like them; but now I am an eighth grader, looking down on the younger children, wishing I could go back to the day when my biggest pain was falling down and scraping my knee.

I used to be self conscious, always worrying about what people thought of me, but now I am confident in myself.

I used to be quiet, never wanting to be heard, never took the chance to stand up for myself, but now I am loud and speak when I want to, without holding back.

I used to be afraid of taking chances, but now I know that is the only way to live.

I used to be paranoid about the choices I made in life, but now I understand that everyone will eventually make the wrong decision.

I used to be a dreamer, always wanted to be a princess, always expected life to come easy; but now I am a girl leaving in reality, wanting an occupation that is actually beneficial, learning everyday that you have to work for things that you want in life.

I used to be self-centered, only caring about myself; but now I feel more gratitude watching others smile around me.

Caroline Wolfe 8th grade

O’Meara Riley - 4th grade

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Images One of My Best Friends My dad’s cousin, my friend, a cook.

He is very sneaky.

I went on a cruise with him.

And the boat was very creaky.

We’ll stay up late and watch the movie, Ratatouille.

Which makes us hungry again.

I wish he could have visited for my birthday.

When I turned the age of ten.

Well, that’s the story of Godpapa Ernie.

He is a very good lad.

I know he feels the same for me.

But when I leave, I’m always sad.

Both of us are good friends.

We always kid around.

I love to be around him.

At bedtime, there is no sound.

We like to go shopping.

Ice cream is a must.

Godpapa Ernie sneaks behind and scares me.

Hopefully, he’s a person I can trust!

We go eat at Parker’s Lighthouse And have a big, nice lunch.

Whenever we have some fish n’ chips, They always make a crunch!

He gives me my favorite cereal, Which happen to be called Corn Flakes.

He might want to eat something else.

But I want Corn Flakes, for goodness sake!

We like to watch a movie, Particularly a comedy.

When the lights go out in the theater.

It’s so dark, we cannot see!

I can’t wait to go visit Godpapa.

We always have a great time.

He always cheers me up a lot.

And his food is definitely fine!

Godpapa Ernie, I love you lots.

I’ve liked you since the start.

You are such a terrific friend.

And you have a wonderful heart!

Nicolas Medrano 5th grade

Kyle Gangi - 4th grade

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Images My Fantastic Trip to Hawaii One hot summer day, my Mom came to my room with my Dad at her side. “We have an interesting surprise for you and our family.” My older sister and I stared at four pieces of white paper that she had in her hand. She showed them to us. Guess what? They were plane tickets to Hawaii!

Next thing I know, I’m packing items into my blue suitcase. We arrived at the American Airlines terminal three days later. We had dinner there. After that we went into a fast, grey plane. My parents took two seats in the front, so my sister and I sat together in two leather seats. We watched a movie using my dad’s computer as a T.V. During the five-hour plane ride, we had many snacks and drinks, such as grape sodas, chocolate candies, caramels, and other tasty foods. It was so fun, except that was only the plane ride! That meant that when we were actually in Hawaii, it was going to be super fun.

We finally arrived. We stayed there for three days so we went swimming in a big pool every day, using gross sunscreen. We also went to a nice restaurant. We had lots of fun. Then we went back to our medium sized hotel room. We did that every day. We went down giant water slides! There were small ones, too. On the other hand, the big ones were great. Cool!

Every day we would look out the balcony. The view was incredible! We were way up high, and we looked out as far as we could see; there were a bunch of beautiful trees of all different kinds. It was wonderful to be way up there.

My family shared a room, except the cool thing was, the employees gave out great toy octopuses. The toys would crawl down walls. Creepy, I know. Toys are like that these days. It is very weird. Some inventions are like that. Also, they gave the adults nice Hawaiian necklaces with flowers on them.

Every day this is what we did: breakfast, pool, lunch, pool, dinner, bed. Also, we swam in the ocean!

I saw two female dolphins jump out of the water. It was so beautiful! They jumped so gracefully! Luckily, my mom had brought her old camera. “Always be prepared!” my dad had said earlier. My mom took a picture.

She said I could keep the picture. The dolphin that was closest to me had a glint in its eye.

We also saw interesting statues made out of steel showing famous people that you see in ancient history books. Then it was over. We went on a plane and traveled home. That is my great memory of Hawaii. Nice times. Well, that is all. Our adventure was done.

Sarah Smith 3rd grade

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Images Like a cougar, mysterious and secretive Like a drawer, I am creative Like a bear, lazy but powerful Like the weather, I am always changing Like a volcano, I have a temper I feel like a leaf, hanging solemnly on a branch Like a sudden crash of thunder, I am loud Like a lion stalking its prey, I am determined I feel like a hyena chuckling loudly with its pack Hudson Fega 8th grade

Blake Neithart - 3rd grade

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Images Bird’s Flight A hummingbird; soft and sweet Buzzing swiftly in search of nectar, Gracefully levitating in the air, Wings flapping up and down in a bubbly beat, Watch the hummingbird, so delicate and quaint, Fly into the sky, as far as the eye can see, Spinning, fluttering ever upward, Buzzing cheerfully as it ascends, Into the blue sky, Hummingbird soaring on a bright spring day, Soaring higher and higher, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring!

Soaring as swift as the wind in spring.

An eagle: fierce and brave, Swooping down upon its cowering prey, No mercy, no sympathy, A cold, bitter heart.

Spreading its wings, Screeching a petrifying call, Caaaaaa! Caaaaaa!

A terror to behold, The eagle valiant and fearless, Swooping down, Into a deadly embrace, A vicious grin and sharp claws, The screeching, screaming eagle, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring mightily in the sky, Feathers spread in pride, A glint of evil in his eyes.

A blue jay; merry and free, Gliding up in the blue sky, Chirping bits of a melody, Tweet, tweet, Beautiful, little critters, Blue as the sea,

Cheerful, with spirits as bright as the sun, Spiraling through the clouds, Shimmery feathers spread proudly, A liberated soul in the tiny bird, Forever joyful, Eyes wide with excitement, Heart beating fast as it glides through the sky, Feeling the wind rush by, And the sun beat on his back, Oh, the blue jay, young and jovial, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring, Soaring!

Soaring elegantly in the sky, A beautiful bird, ruffling its feathers as it dances, Enlightened, all day.

A sparrow; sad and mourning Dull and gray, sulking in the shadows of the trees, Moaning a wistful melody, Fluttering faintly under dark clouds, A delicate bird, With drooping wings and sorrowful eyes, Filled with sadness. . .

Perched on the limb of a willow tree The sparrow sways along with the tree in the breeze, Hidden in the dark, Huddled in a nest, Weakly singing a melancholy tune, Chirp. . .chirp, Its head limp.

Etched with sorrow, Sparrow mourning in the cold, Flying half-heartedly, Soaring, ah, soaring, soaring. . .

Soaring, Quietly in the clouds, the sparrow waits for spring.

Kami Durairaj 6th grade

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Images I used to be lacking a best friend, but now I have two amazing friends.

I used to be short and weak, but now I am taller and stronger.

I used to be alone and forlorn, but now I am surrounded with by people who care.

I used to be carefree and relaxed, but now I am stressed out and tense with anxiety.

I used to be misjudged by others, but now I am more open, letting people understand who I really am.

I used to be afraid of bees and roller coasters, but now I am afraid of getting a bad grade, and I am still afraid of roller coasters.

I used to detest the thought of loving a boy in fear of getting the horrible disease called “cooties,� but now I am drawn to the thought of a fantasy love story like a moth to a flame (I now easily fall for those cheesy love poems).

I used to want to leave Chandler, but now I abhor the idea of leaving the only school I’ve ever been to. I do not want to leave my friends and the teachers of my past and present, with whom I think I have created a bond throughout the years. I will miss Chandler so very much.

Kylie Paddock 8th grade I Used to Be. . .

I used to be fragile, and let people put me down But now I am strong and am confident in whom I am I used to be negative and never and never looked at the bright side But now I am open minded and positive I used to be selfish and took life for granted But now I am appreciative of every blessing I am given I used to be dull, everything was black and white But now I see color and how unique this world is I used to be boring But now I have fun because I realize I only have one life, and I need to live it to the fullest I used to fight with my brother and never appreciate him But now I see how blesses I am to have him in my life I used to be scared to take chances But now I am bold and willing to have new experiences I used to try to be someone else to please others But now I am Monica, and confident in of who I am Monica Maceo 8th grade

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Images

Shaya Naimi and Uma Durrairaj - 4th grade

Alaysia Barker-Vaugh - 4th grade

Uma Durrairaj and Shaya Naimi - 4th grade

Mia Pippert - 2nd grade

B