StudentsXpress Summer 2022

I am grateful for my family because they are so kind and sweet, they also care about everyone. They are always so full of love, my dad can hug me super tight, my mom can make us feel loved all the time, my sister loves playing with me, and I love her and everyone in my family very much.

—Maritza G.

Dear Readers, www.studentsxpress.com Publisher Rachel Switall Magazine Group, NFP Rachel Switall Editor, Art Director, Production Manager rachel@studentsxpress.com Pam McNall Founder, Respectful Ways Social Emotional Learning Program

Cover art by Maritza G.

This issue is all about Gratitude. As I’ve mentioned before, I am grateful to be working with Pam and the team at Respectful Ways. As we move ahead, I look forward to reaching and hearing from more students across the country.

I am most grateful to the students and teachers who have been participating in StudenstXpress over the years. This publication was built on an idea I had that is dependent on the participation of others.

The students have always turned in wonderful work.

And I know I would not have received that work to publish had it not been for the teachers, principals and librarians who collect and turn in the submissions. I appreciate you all for believing in StudentsXpress and being a part of this journey.

As I recognize those who have been with StudentsXpress from the beginning, I look forward to welcoming new schools, teachers and students into the mix as well. After all, that’s what it’s all about— students from all over expressing themselves though their words and art and learning from each others’ experiences in the process.

I hope you enjoy this issue!

—Rachel rachel@studentsxpress.com

Students— When submitting work, please be sure to write neatly.

Spell check does not check names and if they are hard to read, I just do the best I can, so I apologize if I got any names wrong!

Teachers, it always helps if names are written out clearly.

Also, if you’re turning in artwork, unlined white paper is the best.

And please write your name on every page submitted.

Hello students, families, and educators! My team and I are really excited about this Gratitude Feels Great edition of StudentsXpress magazine.

Thinking about the love and admiration you have for another human being really brings out the best in everyone. It takes us out of our ego state, and makes us think about the positive attributes of others— and why we care about this other person, animal or thing.

The gratitude students are expressing through their words and art in this latest issue really shines through!

What’s Next! Our end-of-summer / start-of-school edition is on the subject of: Pride Yourself on Being Courteous. Let’s get off on the right foot next school year with “The Golden Rule”. Why is being courteous and showing others respect important? What good can come from being courteous? Due date for submissions is Fri., Sept. 30th, 2022.

Over the coming school year, we’ll have different social emotional learning prompts for educators to give to their students. From concepts like Let’s Get Along to Do the Right Thing, we’ll challenge all ages to share their ideas on what these SEL slogans mean to them.

Please enjoy this latest edition of StudentsXpress magazine about gratitude. We are grateful for you! :) ~Pam McNall Founder of Respectful Way

Can you find these pictures throughout the magazine?

Thank you!

Contact rachel@studentsxpress.com if your school would like to participate in StudentsXpress.

Sponsored by Constant Contact

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Gratitude is the thing that makes you feel so great the thing that you do to show who you appreciate spread the love stop the hate make sure you appreciate —Edison G. Gratitude feels great because it helps me feel like a great person. I am grateful for my mother because she takes very good care of me. I am grateful for all of the new things that my family buys for me because I have a lot of fun with all my new things.

—Sincere M.

Why I chose my family is that they did so much for me and I love my family.

—Noah C.

MY FAMILY

What I am Thankful for I am glad/thankful for my Parents because they gave me life and they are the reason I am even here so I really appreciate them. Also I am very very thankful for my friends because they always make everything fun to me and always there for me. Another thing I am thankful for is our lord Jesus Christ because He is also another reason I am alive he made earth, my parents, food and many more. I am also thankful for food because they keep me alive and actually not only that, also water is like almost part of food and I am thankful for water because water actually keeps me hydrated and good for my health. I am also thankful for my phone. The reason why I am thankful for it is because it keeps me up late like 2 in the morning lol and also because my phone is needed whenever I am in danger. The last thing I am thankful for is anime because anime is a huge part of my life because most animes are inspirational because of their quotes and stuff like that. Farewell.

—Cesar A.

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I am thankful for my parents and sister.

—Daniya T. Think of this a small town somewhere near the great cornfields of Illinois. Imagine a few kids playing around on Main Street. The kids hear some loud thunder above them. They start to rush around their town. One sees a lightning strike. The wind starts to pick up. They rush into the nearest store. Bob’s Hardware Store. The employee asks the kids what they are doing. They say there is a big thunderstorm happening and they need shelter. Five minutes later someone on the news said, “Stay inside we are in the middle of a tornado.” The kids show so much gratitude to the employees of Bob’s Hardware Store.

They are so happy that they found somewhere so they would not die in a tornado.

—Helen S.

As the wistful trees swayed, the mountains felt lonelier than ever. It had not once snowed or even rained for that matter. The poor old mountains were dry, and seemed to just be waiting for snow.

The mountains liked the way the snow looked, it reminded them of...lace, and when it snowed it was all peaceful. When the first snowflakes finally fell, the mountains almost heard the echo of the snow, promising to bring life beneath its white blanket.

And just then the old mountains seemed to come alive in gratitude. It seems that most life begins when it snows, after all, thirsty roots and seeds gratefully await the water that snow brings.

—Katherine K.

I am grateful for friends. They make me happy.

—Karter G.

Spring/Summer 2022

I am grateful for my family. My family always give me emotional support, and they always help me out when I need it the most! If I’m ever sad my mom, cousins, aunts, or whoever I am with they cheer me up and make me feel better. One time I felt really insecure, and guess what! My mom and most of my family members really helped me out. I think family and friends are the best thing in the... WORLD! Yay to family.

—Melanie P.O.

I am grateful for Ms. Breen.

—Franklin P. Gratitude feels great. It is fun to think about what I am thankful for. I am thankful for my mom because she buys me toys that I really want. I am thankful for good days because they make me smile.

—Serenity J.

I have gratitude for my parents. Without my parents I wouldn’t know how to walk and talk. Without my parents I wouldn’t know how to eat and my manners.

Without my parents I wouldn’t be in school and I wouldn’t have any food. That is why have gratitude for my parents.

—Serena R.

A thing I’m grateful for is having a life and making kind friends and having awesome parents.

—Emiliano O.

I am thankful for my family and food, clothes and my house!

—Alex Q. Carlos A. Gratitude Haiku Gratitude is great.

It Can Be Essentially Good.

So Be Grateful, Please.

— John H. Gratitude feels great because it helps us love everyone. I am thankful for my mom because she takes care of me. And she makes me feel safe and secure. When I have a bad day I remember all the things that I am grateful for, like my phone because it keeps me entertained.

—Matthew G.

I am thankful for my brother because every time I see him he always listens to me whenever I tell him something and he doesn’t just shrug it off.

He gets me things for my birthday, he gets me stuff to eat and we always have a fun time.

He is the best brother in the world.

—Max G.

Spring/Summer 2022

I am grateful for mommy. She loves me so much.

She helps me with my homework.

She plays with me all the time!

—A’meriah H.

Ms. Knight is like a superhero to me. She is nice, kind, caring and sweet.

For example when I did not have a big lunch she gave me a candy cane so I would not be hungry.

That’s caring if you ask me.

And when a kid in the class was swearing won’t say who she said I don’t think I taught you that vocabulary and did not get him in too much trouble.

That’s nice and sweet.

By the way she always remembers her students like when she was on vacation she got me a water bottle since I’m always forgetting it and it made me so happy I had to hold back the tears.

—Petra R.

I am grateful for my mom and dad because they help around the house. My mom washes dishes and my dad waters plants. My dad goes to work and pays our bills. I feel calm because he takes care of us. Buying our food and keeping us with a house.

—Linda G.

I am thankful for my mom because we are friends.

—Alonny M.

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I feel grateful when…

Charles C.

I go with Mom.

—Orlando C.

I go see my grandparents.

I eat.

I go to the birthday party.

—Amazin A.

Riley A. Taylor L.

I go to the birthday party.

—Aasina H.

I sleep!

—Camia A.

I eat.

­—Kennedy P.

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I go to the birthday party.

I am able to read my library books.

–Mrs. Ford

Spring/Summer 2022

I sleep.

—Johnlon

I go to school.

I go see my grandparents.

—Lakenya P.

—Nikira A.

I go to the birthday party.

Henry J.

—Zariah M.

I go to the birthday.

—Madison W.

I eat!

Jamir D.

I go to school.

—Marlon B.

I go to the birthday party!

I go to my grandparents.

—Kathryn S.

Spring/Summer 2022

I go to school.

Li’Anna N.

I go party.

—Zariah M.

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“I caught a mouse for dinner!” Kiki exclaimed, with her fluffy ginger tail high in the air. “That’s great!” Mittens replied. Kiki, Mitten’s eldest sister, always worked hard to keep her siblings safe and protected by finding shelter for them, hunting for food and water, and protecting them from predators. In fact, her birthday was tomorrow. Kiki was currently cutting the mouse into equal pieces to distribute to her family. “Dinner is ready!” she called to grab the attention of her brothers and sisters. All of the kittens gathered together to feast upon the freshly caught mouse. “This tastes delightful,’’ Stormy, the youngest kitten said.

After dinner, they all went to bed. All of the cats were sleeping peacefully except for Mittens. She was coming up with a plan for a surprise birthday party for her sister. Kiki always worked so hard, and Mittens thought the birthday party would be a perfect way to express her gratitude.

The next morning, Mittens shared the plan to all of her siblings, excluding Kiki of course. “I’m going out for a walk,” Mittens told Kiki. However, she was actually going to go hunt for a delicious meal. An hour later, Mittens had caught two birds, and was very proud of herself. When she got back home, she found her siblings (beside Kiki) decorating the whole house. There were balloons, and confetti sprinkled all over the place! Stormy had told Kiki to go outside and try to find a pond to drink water from, so she wouldn’t see them planning the surprise. Mittens cut up the birds while the rest of her family was busily embellishing the room.

Then they heard the door open. “Quick! Everyone hide!” shrieked Mittens. “Good news everyone I foun”Kiki started before she noticed what had happened.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!” Everyone cried. Kiki was in awe.

They spent the rest of the afternoon celebrating their sister’s birthday. They all felt so grateful for Kiki.

—Lara O. Dug woke up at 6:30 on a chilly Thursday. But Dug didn’t care about the cold. It was THANKSGIVING. Dug went downstairs, made some breakfast and went off to Best Buy to pick up some tv’s and ipad pros. Dug then went to Goodwill and donated all five of his new tv’s. Dug then went to Rush Medical Care Hospital and gave away ipad pros to children with disabilities. Dug then rushed home to get there in time for Thanksgiving dinner. It was there Dug said “I am grateful for everybody in here and many others too. I am grateful for the birds even if they splatter me with poo. I am grateful for the water and food that we have to eat on this wonderful night with my wonderful family.”

—Evan T.

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Bria J.

I am grateful for friends. They make me happy.

—Mahugnon E. I am grateful for my teacher and my family. I like doing homework so that I can get even smarter.

My family helps me do my homework.

We also watch movies together.

Gratitude makes me feel great because it cheers me up when I’m down or upset about something. I am thankful for my mom and my dad. I am thankful for my mom because if it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t be here. I’m thankful for my dad because he is in my life. I am thankful for the things my family gives me because other people don’t have those things.

—Nyesha G.

Gratitude floats in the air like clouds It is all around you.

You may not notice but if you are kind Then you will feel it too —Annalise G. I love God because he brought me into the world and I love to be in the world. I couldn’t do nothing without Him. I feel break because I’m talking about it.

I also feel happy because He is helpful to others.

—Dominique R.

I am grateful for my dad because I help him with his things when I get out of school.

—Vanessa C.

Alan S.

I am grateful for my hoverboard.

My parents gave it for Christmas.

I can ride it backwards and forward. It also spins around. It is purple and black. The wheels are rainbow colors.

—Peyton D.

I am grateful for my food and water.

—Annabella O. Spring/Summer 2022

Keagan Y.

Hi there my name is Chicken Wig and this is a story about a girl named Zoey. Zoey was never grateful for anything she was a typical rich girl that had anything her heart desired. But one day Zoey got a surprise that shocked her. Her parents cut her off of there bank account she was mad but after a while she became a better person and was grateful for everything.

—Andrian P. Gratitude feels great to me because it makes me feel good to know that people like, love, and care for me.

I am thankful for my mom and dad because they make and buy things for me. I am grateful for my toys because they are very fun to play with and they bring me joy.

—Jaycean C. Some time ago I was going through some really bad mental health issues and I felt alone. But one day I had a sleepover with my cousin she is 17 so I thought I could talk to her so I did and then she opened up to me. That day I felt like I belonged.

—Camila B.

***

I am grateful for my family.

I love my family and my family loves me.

I love my family because they give me kisses!

I love them more than life!

Gratitude is showing that you care about things or people and you should show gratitude so people feel good about what they did for you. A time when I was grateful was when my mom got the new house and we said ‘’thank you for this big beautiful house.”

A time when someone showed me gratitude is when I cleaned up the whole kitchen and my mom and my dad thanked me, I was proud of my self.

—Aiyanna M.

Spring/Summer 2022

It’s been 15 weeks. No spaghetti for me. I’m starting to want it. “Papyrus, can I have some spaghetti?”

“Apologize first.” Papyrus said. “Okay, I’m sorry. I should be grateful for spaghetti.” After that, I was more grateful and it paid off. And that’s the end.

—Maci F.

I am grateful for my dad because he needed surgery. He broke his knee and he was resting in bed. He tried to walk too soon and had to go back to the hospital. I am happy that he is home so we can spend time together.

—Kachan A. I am grateful for Miss C. for teaching us fun work!

—Carson H.

I am thankful for my life and being alive. I am also thankful for my family, friends, home, food / water, animals, and everything.

Friends: Ava, Gabby, Carolina etc.

Family: Mom (Michele) Grandpa, Grandma, etc.

—Violeta C.

“Sans? Sans! Wake up you lazybones!” WHAT? Oh. Sorry. I lost control there. Hi. I’m Sans, a skeleton. I think I’m really punny. HAHA! “SANS I’M WARNING YOU IF YOU DON’T COME AND EAT THIS SPAGHETTI RIGHT THIS INSTANT I’LL-” That’s my brother Papyrus.

“Never fear, Papyrus, I’m coming to taste your spaghetti!” I stood up and walked into the kitchen.

A bowl of spaghetti stood in front of a chair. I tasted it. “That’s very-good.” I said. “But why do we have to have spaghetti all the time?” Papyrus sniffed. “You should be more grateful for it!”

I am grateful for the people in my life that make me laugh and smile. I am grateful for the people that love me. I am grateful for the people that for me would walk miles.

—Valentine P.

I love my dog. I play with him.

—Liberty B.

Thankful for my cousins. Because he nice to me.

I am writing about Sgt. Stubby of WW1. He was a stray who was found starving on the streets by Robert Conroy. He was taken in by the 26th Division.

He must’ve been really thankful to Robert Conroy because Conroy saved his life. He dies at the age of 10 from old age in Conroy’s arms.

—James K.

Poem of Graditude I am grateful for love, I am grateful for peace.

I am grateful for everything. No matter if someone has something I want, I am still grateful for everything I have. I am grateful for my family, my mom and dad.

My brother and cousins are the best people I could have. I am grateful for everything.

—Rishav C.

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One day I was at my house waiting for my grandparents. I really wanted a new guitar because mine was broken and I tried to fix it many times. So when they came they saw I was looking online for guitars. My grandpa said “let’s go to CME (Chicago Music Exchange) to look at guitars”. Then we got there and I went to my favorite part of the store. It had guitars like Kramers, EVHs, and Jacksons. I played the Kramer a lot. Every time I went I played the Kramer. My grandpa said “do you want the Kramer” and I said “Yes, I love the Kramers.” Then we bought the Kramer and I was so thankful that I asked if there was anything I could help him with. We finally got home and since then I play it every day.

—John C. Kamryn J.

I have gratitude for my family and having a roof over my head. I have gratitude for these things because most people can’t have these things. I also have gratitude for my friends and dog. I have gratitude for these because I have amazing friends and a mean but adorable dog! Thanks for listening —Devon H.

Jakobi B.

Elena C. I am grateful for my dad and toys. My dad plays Super Mario with me. He brought me a Power Ranger set because I like to watch them on TV. The Recipe of Gratitude Cake I am grateful for my teachers.

I am grateful for them because they teach me.

They help me learn things I do not know.

I am very grateful to have such amazing teachers!

I am thankful for my teachers because they always get me through a tough time when I am having a tough time and also my family. And a thing is my bed it got through me a lot of tough times.

—Ethan G.

Dominick R.

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ThanksGiving story!

I am grateful for everything I have. About 5 to 4 years ago my family were saying what they were thankful for and then it was my turn to say what I was thankful for, then the PROBLEM comes BOOM! I start to cry for no reason I thought I had to do a whole speech I got so overwhelmed so then I cried.

—Keydi R-P

Ingredients: At least one deed of good from the other person, feeling of thankfulness, and for a special good deed they did add ½ tablespoons of sugar; 1 cup milk 4 cups cream and 2 cups flour, then add in some of your favorite spices and some softened butter then mix together and add ½ cup water, then bake until golden brown and there you have it a Mini Gratitude Cake!

Serving sizes: 1 (to make large cake multiply ingredients by amount of people and extra for seconds, thirds etc) (decorate how you like it doesn’t matter BUT make sure you spell out Thank you for ____ (whatever you feel gratitude for/who) — Siobhan T. Gratitude feels great because it helps me calm down when I am upset or angry. I am thankful for my reading teacher Ms. Jones because she is a great teacher and she helps me learn. I am grateful for my school because I have made a lot of friends at school.

—Channeon F.

I am grateful for my teacher, Ms. Hall.

I love that she’s our teacher. She helps us learn to read and learn math and about rights.

That’s why we love our teacher, Miss Hall!

There once was a penguin named Bob. He was around the age you should be going to college. On day there was a really big snow storm and he was afraid be might miss the big project that was due today but luckily the street cleaners came in at just the right moment and saved his grade. Bob ended up getting a 98% due to the paper getting a little wet from the snow. Bob felt lots of gratitude to the street cleaners because they ended up saving his grade so he ordered a massive pizza and had a big pizza party with them. From then on everyone was happy with pizza. The end —Henry G. Senoria O.

I am thankful for my family. They always give me a hug when I get home from school.

Spring/Summer 2022

Bob woke up to the loudest, most horrible noise known to man: his alarm clock. He got out of bed, slayed the horrible beast that had woke him up, and brushed his teeth. He went downstairs, ate breakfast, and set off for work. Bob did not like his job. He worked in an office writing newspapers. He had some friends at the office that he chatted with often. However, this was not the part Bob didn’t like.

Bob was just plain bored of writing newspapers all day. Bob did not work well that day, he slacked off and did not complete what he was supposed to.

Unfortunately, this lazy behavior resulted in getting fired. He was not fired because his boss was bad, in fact, Bob was friends with his boss. He was fired because he was not completing any of the things he was supposed to be completing, which resulted in newspaper delays. Bob found a new job at the lumber factory. He started his job the next day and felt uneasy when he first arrived, due to the loud sounds and abnormal amount of suspiciously buff people. He was like a drop of oil in a vast ocean. It was hard, grueling work, chopping the logs and lifting them away all day long. That night he realized that the newspaper company was the best job he was going to get, and when he was offered a spot back in the newspaper company, he accepted without hesitation. From then on he was thankful for all the supporting friends and the kindness of his boss who offered him a spot, even after he was fired.

He never failed to complete an article again.

—William G.

My family —Alex B.

On Thanksgiving, my parents, my cousins’ parents, my cousins, and I were going around the table saying things we are thankful for. We listed a bunch of things and the most common things were “A house, a family, a car, food, warmth, money, and education.” After that we had a very nice dinner.

Always be thankful for what you have!

—Rhea G.

I am grateful for being alive. I am also very grateful for my family. I am grateful for everything my family and the world gave me till this day. I am grateful for my parents letting me reach my dreams and my goals. Thank you.

—Andres M.

Jaquez P.

I am thankful for my mommy because she gave me a toy.

The thing I am grateful for is my Family because they always take care of me and always do the best for me and my brother when I need them. They make me sad but they tell me that I always want the best for you and I always know they mean it. They buy me stuff and I’m grateful because my family is the best thing I could ask for.

—Mariano R.

Spring/Summer 2022

Emma B’s comic of Bum-Bum-Bum! Gratefulness!

—Emma B.

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Oh, gratitude, To not have it, would be quite rude, I love gratitude, and you should too, Gratitude, oh, gratitude.

I am grateful for my sister!

Gratitude is used all over the land, You shouldn’t sound as rough as sand,

Today I was looking for my ipad and I couldn’t find it. My brother saw me looking and decided to help me. He found it and I was so happy. I showed him gratitude.

—Ryder M.

If you care, you’re ever so grand!

Gratitude, oh, gratitude.

Why, you ask?

“It’s ever so hard, It’s easier to buy a car!’

Tsk, tsk, tsk, are you silly?!

You can have it willy nilly!

Love, laughter, happiness, and joy, Give someone greatness, give one a toy.

You know, gratitude is love, young boy,

No matter how much we argue!

Klara B.

Gratitude, oh, gratitude.

Gratitude is all around, my friends!

Gratitude will be there till the end, Friendship will always be able to mend, Gratitude, oh gratitude.

—Nari B. Hi!!! I’m Bridget. I will tell you who I am grateful for, my dad. I am grateful for my dad because he has been there my whole life. Ever since I was 11 months old my dad has been there to take care of me. He always makes sure I am happy and safe and healthy. He makes sure I have fun and if I need help he is always there for me. On school nights he makes sure I get to my mom’s house on time so I get enough sleep. I love my dad and I am super grateful that he is in my life.

Who are you grateful for?

—Bridget P.

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Alani M.

One day my mom heard me say that I left my nintendo at my cousin’s house and then my mom went to get it for me and I was very grateful that she did that for me.

—Blake S.

Chester I. I am grateful to have Camila and Natalia because when I was unhappy, they came and comfort me. They are amazing! They also cheer me up by them telling me funny jokes. I will always have their backs and I know they have mine.

—Anelisse D. Once upon a time…

There lived a dragoness Who wanted to be a girl scout But despite the many times she tried They never let her in.

Tired of begging Her primitive mind raced to formulate a plan Eventually she came up with Draggy…make…kookies!!!

So she made some cookies and gave them to the girl scouts The smiles melted off their faces.

They spit it out and they gagged and gagged So the dragoness tried again This time she added sugar Instead of salt The girl scouts tried them Here and there appeared grins a mile wide She was welcomed and loved Into the girl scouts She was filled with gratitude For her tiny brain Who had come up with such a brilliant plan.

—Mehin Q.

I am grateful for my life because of all the things I have!

I am grateful for my dad because he can cook really fast.

—Tysean

Some things I am grateful for is first my two best friends. They both make me laugh and smile and keep me company. Another thing I am grateful for is my family they care for me they help me and they love me. And the last thing I am grateful for is K-pop music.

I have listened to a lot of music but K-pop music makes me want to dance and sing.

—Paola M. I am grateful for my friends like Analyssa, Max, my sister Diamond, and my friend Ethan. I am grateful for them because they are always there for me when I need especially my older sister and my friend Ethan because whenever I feel down they are always there for me when I want to vent to them.

—Devin Z. I am grateful for…

School and teachers because it makes me smarter and one day I will be smart just like them.

—Evan L.

Thanks for all my brothers. They be nice to me.

—Taegan L.

Spring/Summer 2022

Today I will be telling you about a time when I was really grateful. On June 1st, 2020 2:00 AM my house was lit on fire. My Mom and Dad heard it and they woke me, my brother, and my sister, up. We got out of the house as quickly as possible. When we got outside and the firefighters came I was really grateful to be healthy and safe. 2 years later I’m still grateful nothing happened to me or my family.

—Andrej B.

I am grateful for my entire family. And that can include room 252. They make me laugh a lot! Sometimes they can make me mad or sad. But then we all work it out.

And I don’t talk to everybody, but they all are so sweet and kind. And some I knew from of my old schools! I just love how they make me feel different emotions. And my family at home make me feel the same way. Everyone makes me feel so good.

—Amaya B.

I am grateful that my parents looked on the dog website the night that they did because otherwise I would not have the amazing and wonderful dog I have now and that when I wake up I get love from him and when I go to bed every night he is right there with me.

—Brea N.

I once had a time that I was grateful for just a simple thing: life.

I was thankful for it because without it I wouldn’t have experienced and encountered my family, my friends, and anything related about life. So when I was scared of growing older that I was thinking about this I was scared I wasn’t thankful about this. Later on I talked to my parents about this and they helped me and I could rest easy at night and create my own mini-dreams if I were still awake so I could fall asleep. And now I am thankful for my life because people can help you get through things that you don’t appreciate because you saw its bad side, instead the people helped you by making you see its more wonderful side.

So all of this I was thankful for and goodbye.

—Jhugo C.

demon rat

Gratitude feels great because it makes me happy when someone treats me good. I am thankful for my sister’s boyfriend Josh because he is always nice to me. When I have a good day it makes me grateful because not every day is a good day.

—Miyana Y.

Art, paint and 7 foot rats.

—Natalie P. I am grateful for my sister because she takes me and my cousins places. She does everything for us. I also feel grateful for my mom because she takes great care of us. She is strong and beautiful. I feel delight inside myself because of these two great women in my life.

—Kennah S. I am grateful for my mom because she tells me to try my best. It makes me feel happy inside. It also feels great when she tells me to try my hardest.

—Nala K. I am thankful for Tenoch because he is a good friend to me. He always makes me laugh even when I feel down. It’s good to have a friend that hangs out with me so I never feel alone.

I also am grateful for Logan because when I ask him if we can play Xbox and stuff, he always says yes. I wish there was some way to repay him for how friendly he is.

—Jayden S.

Spring/Summer 2022

I am grateful for my parents and all things they do for me they make me happy but I’m also thankful for my dogs because they’re always there for me and they make me happy.

—Aiden B.

I am grateful for my mom and dad. I am grateful for my comic book character Squarehead.

—Aidan F. Aaron

What I’m grateful for is having a life, a family, food, shoes, and games I am grateful for these items because I get to use them and/or eat them every day of my life.

—Cristopher T-A

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Gratitude pie

I am grateful for my God and Jesus because God made us and Jesus died for us.

—Journey W.

1. A pint of thankfulness 2. A teaspoon of love 3. A quart of friendship 4. A tablespoon of helpfulness 5. A cup of caring 6. A pinch of kindness 7. A heep of good deeds

I am grateful for my brother because he told me how to play chess and help me on everything I needed help on and can watch JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure with me.

—Arden T.

BAKE!

I am grateful for…

• My sister • My Mom • My Dad • #4 (dog) • My grandma • The world • My teachers • Who I am —Marisa G.

Help someone out, do a good deed!

Add a pinch of kindness, and 1 cup of caring Mix all of the ingredients into one beautiful pie, put it in the oven and wait for it to rise!

When it’s done, don’t keep to yourself.

Show it to the world and give a slice to everybody!

—Alice L. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for life.

I am thankful for my phone and video game.

—Jamari F.

I am grateful for my grandma because she bakes me cookies when I go over to her house. I’m also grateful for my sister because every time I’m sad she calms me down and gives me a hug. This makes me feel very cool and loved.

—Lylah C.

Xivi

I am grateful for my Mom and Dad, my iPad, my TV, my Xbox, my bed, my family, my house, my pets, my skateboard, my bike and my food.

—Tristan C.

Hector A. I am thankful for my parents because they don’t let me do things that can harm me. They try to make me do habits like eating vegetables and not playing too much video games so when I am older I have all these good habits that will make me healthy. And I am thankful for my older siblings even though we fight they protect me and help me like many times when I was younger when I nearly died or got lost they find me and they save my life multiple times.

—Bryan O.

The person I am thankful for is my brother because he helps me a lot and he is sometimes kind but I still love him no matter what. And I still love him.

—Miranda D.

I am grateful for my house and all my clothes I am grateful and I hope everyone knows I am grateful for my family and friends I’ll be grateful for these things until the very end —Isabella L. Natalia C.

Warren T.

I am grateful for Elena, my BFF! I am grateful for raptoårs!

Klara B.

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I’m thankful for my family because they did so much for me so I will do same for them because they are my family and Snoopy my dog is family too.

—Andres H.

I am grateful for my mom because she understands me and when I need help I go and tell her for advice even though I am sometimes mad at her I still love her I am so happy I have a mom because some people don’t have moms so if you have a mom go hug her and tell her how much you love her.

Spring/Summer 2022

I am grateful for my mom and my dad because my mom makes food and my dad works hard to make me happy and I am thankful for food.

—Kristopher

The things I am grateful for is Parents, Food, Friends, House, Siblings, and my pets and for everything. The reason why I am grateful for all of this is because I know that all of this is important to everyone in the world. Also the reason why we need all of these things is because maybe in your life you’re going to at least need them once.

—Joelliane D-R

I am thankful, me and my sister. We are playing.

—Nolva O.

This is a fictional story* When I was younger, I had always liked my grandmother’s cooking. She made wonderful dishes and treats, but as I got older I stopped eating her food as often. I have regretted this for some time now but even now I will never forget her cooking. I regret not loving her food more and not learning many of the dishes she made. I am most importantly grateful for the wonders my grandmother had made for my family and I hope for you to know to be grateful for what you have.

—Eliza D.

I am grateful for my dog Mambo he is very fun to play with and the cutest puppy on earth. I love him and I am glad he came into my life. He is funny and sweet and I love him a lot. I think I got very lucky with him.

That is what I am grateful for.

—Sebastian P.

I am thankful for my friend because he is kind and if I ask him for help he will help me and he is a good friend and if he sees me sad he will come to me and tell me what’s wrong and I tell him why I am sad and he makes me happy and when it’s time to play he tells me if I want to play with him and I say yes and we play.

—Efrain G.

Spring/Summer 2022

Once upon a time, I was walking down the street and then I saw a pigeon. The pigeon was looking at me and flapping its wing and squicking. I looked at the pigeon and then I looked next to it and I saw a puddle. I thought to myself for a second and then thought that that pigeon just saved my life. I thanked that pigeon and walked away. I will never forget that pigeon.

—Lily T. Catalina I’m thankful for my friends. They were always there when I needed them. We hang out, tell each other jokes, play games and talk about what’s going on.

That’s why I’m thankful for my friends and I hope you are too.

—Hudson D.

Wyatt T.

Javier A.

Gratitude is special, being nice makes not only you feel special but it makes the other person feel special.

You want to be nice to people if they do something nice for you. Sometimes gratitude can just be sending a friendly email to a friend or it can be a poem but for what I know it gets people closer together and that is special.

—Emma S.

Erick A.

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At 6:30 am Doug woke up. Today was Thanksgiving.

Doug planned to show all the people in his life gratitude. He started by buying coffee and donuts for everyone in his office. After work ended at 4:00 pm he went to a homeless shelter and donated everything in Walmart and $50,0000. After that he went home and made his family dinner. At dinner he asked his 2 kids what they were thankful for. They both said birds so he donated $3,000,000 to helping endangered birds. Then he saw a homeless man on the street and he donated everything he owned to him. That night he had nothing but he was happy. In the morning everyone who he did things for gave him 1 million dollars so he was rich but then he gave it all to different charities around the world. So he may not have much but he was happy.

—Nevan B. I am grateful for my mom because she buys me stuff. I live in her house and now it is my house. Without her I would be nothing. If I’m not grateful I might not have the things I have now. I appreciate her.

—Janyla W.

I am grateful for my mom cause she does everything to help me and she really cares about me. And my best friend Carlos cause me and him are very good best friends.

—Jordan B.

Gratitude feels great because it helps me calm down when my siblings upset me. I am grateful for my mom because she feeds me every day, and I have a bed to sleep in every night. I am grateful for my house because it is my shelter, and provides heat when it is called.

—Kimia L.

I’m grateful for people who trust.

—Santiago A.

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Noel I.

Gratitude is great because it makes me feel happy. I am grateful for my mom because she helps me with my homework. I am also grateful for her because she help me clean my room. I am grateful for school because I learn a lot in school.

—Wesley W. When someone gives me something, I have great gratitude. When someone helps me out on something, I feel great gratitude. A tiny nice gesture to someone will make them feel gratitude. Now ask yourself, have you made someone’s day?

—Levi L. I am grateful for my parents because they help supply my needs and wants. We should be grateful because we need to care about people and things. I am also grateful for my school because they help me learn. I feel happy because these things help me succeed in life.

—Zachary H. I am grateful for my family and friends because my family is very kind to me and they help me live a happy healthy life. I am grateful for my friends because when I feel lonely my friends invite me over to play they also are kind to me and that is why I am thankful for my friends and family.

—Eduardo F. Gratitude feels great because you can lose what you have at any time. I am thankful for my mom because she helps me whenever I need it. I’m grateful for school because I can learn at school. I am also grateful for my house because it is my shelter.

—Devon T.

Thankful for Granny.

—Terry

Thankful for my mom. Mom bought me shoes.

—Nasilva I am thankful for my friend Derick because he is always helping me.

—Ja’Hari F.

Emiliano V.

Spring/Summer 2022

Hi, my name is Eloise. I’m 9 years old and I go to Solo Elementary. Yesterday I met someone named Mat, I saw him at school today as he was walking to class. I smiled at him and said “hi” he said hi back. I told him my name and then we walked into class. When I came out of the classroom talking to my friend Alesha about dance class, a mean looking older kid came up to me and picked me up by the head and dropped me on the ground. Mat came up to him and said “Teo stop” ( apparently he knew the kid). Teo just walked away laughing. Mat asked me if I was okay, I said that my head kind of hurt and he walked me to the nurse. From that day forward I felt gratitude for Mat. —Zoelle L.

I am grateful for my family and my friends and my cousin. Why because they care for me and love me and being kind to my family and help each other and happy to people.

—Joaquin R. Gratitude means thankful and appreciative and to return kindness. Most people would be thankful to have a roof, water, and food. I have gratitude for having a roof or house, clean and healthy water and good food made by my mom. I’m also thankful because I have a happy family and nobody has passed away recently. If someone smiles at you, you should always smile back, just like you would always say thank you if someone does something good for you or if they think they did something good.

—Nicole G. Gratitude feels great because it makes me feel special. I am grateful for my mom because she takes very good care of me and my sister. I am also grateful for my dad because he cooks very good meals. I am grateful for my house because it keeps me warm.

—Sapphire F.

What I’m grateful for is my mom and my dad because my mom sometimes gets me money so I can buy whatever I want at the store. I’m grateful for my dad because he gets me anything I want.

—Tyler F. Gratitude Matters “Hey sweetheart” my dad said. “What’s up?” I said. “I got this package in the mail. Did you order anything?” my dad said. “Not that I know of, but I can open it.” I said. “I have to get work, love you” my dad said walking off. I opened the package, not looking at the box. “A phone?” I said. I was on a call with my friend, but she didn’t think much of it. “Hmm, looks normal,” she said.

I turned on the phone and noticed it had a pin. I tried to unlock it, but nothing worked. So I then decided to wipe off all the data.

I set up the phone, not using my actual information, but alternative ones just in case. Little did I know, I didn’t know the dangers. I then had to hang up because my mom just got home. “Hey mom” I said while holding the phone. “Did dad buy you this?” my mom said. “No, I found it in a random package” I said.

“Where is it?” my mom said. “Behind me” I said. My mom then looked at it and noticed something super peculiar. “Um, angel, this has no returning address…”

“What the..” I said. “Stop using it, right now!” My mom screamed in horror. “Okay, jeez..” I said. “Show some gratitude!” my mom said. “Sorry..” I said.

The next morning my mother called my name out. “Yes, mom?” I said. “Look,” she said. The news reporter then said, “This man got a free phone? Quite lucky, right? Nope, right after he put in his sensitive information, everything got hacked, even after wiping the data off the phone. “Thank you so much mom!” I said.

The End —Natalie E.

Spring/Summer 2022

Friends: they always have your back.

—Oliver S.

I am grateful for my mommy because she takes care of me. She feeds me and gives me stuff. She irons and washes my clothes. I am grateful to have a helpful mom for my sister, brother and me.

—A’Lante H.

I am grateful for my dog. When I was in a pool drowning and she went to my mom barking and wouldn’t leave until my mom followed her. My mom saw me and rushed to save me. I feel both happy and excited because she saved me and I feel she could save others.

—Zariah B. Gratitude feels great because it makes me feel good about myself. I am grateful for my mom because she is the best mom I can ask for. She feeds me every day and she puts a roof over my head. I am grateful for my iPhone 13 because I have a lot of fun on it. I am also grateful for my dog Bella.

—Miracle I. I am grateful for my mom and dad and why I am grateful for my mom is because she helps me a lot and why I care about my dad is because he cares about me.

—Sofia P. I am grateful for electronics because it gives me stuff to do and it’s fun. It also helps me talk to my friends online and helps me bond with people.

—Tenoch G.

I am thankful for my dogs because they make me happy. I’m also thankful that I have Netflix and can watch JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.

—Johan M.

I have gratitude for the weekend.

Yes it helps my mood, gratitude.

I have gratitude for loved ones.

For it helps my groove, gratitude.

Yes, gratitude is a thing for you dude.

—Jacob B.

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Gratitude, Oh Gratitude You love me and I love you I actually don’t really know Gratitude, Oh Gratitude, If rats had gratitude Would it be called ratitude?

If giraffes had gratitude, would it be called giraffeitude?

If leaves had gratitude, would it be called leafitude?

If pop-its had gratitude,would it be called pop-itude?

But alas, we’ll never know But alas, we can still grow In both gratitude and kindness But alas, we can still conduct a science experiment But alas, it will be a great achievement In both the science world and the animal world Do animals have gratitude? (Not including humans) —Isabel U.

There was a stray rabbit called Billy. He was out scoping the grounds for some leftover veggies or some plants to eat then all of a sudden a huge net came and scooped him up. He tried vigorously to bite the string but it was too tough. Billy was taken into a van and went to bed. While Billy was sleeping he woke up to a sudden jerk and the van door opened and a scruffy looking man came and took him and threw him in a cage in a dark room full of whimpers. Billy saw bright eyes look at him but could not make out what it was.

Then the light came on and Billy finally understood everything there was animals in cages scared to death, shivering and whimpering. A man who was as thin as string beans stepped in and said. “Let us start the experiment.” Billy hadn’t a clue on what was happening but a mouse said that the man would steal animals and do tests on them. Then a knock was heard and the man opened the door and it was the police and they had seen animals missing so they put a tracker on all the animals they could find and the tracking led to the factory. The thin man was speechless and half the animals smiled and exposed little beeping trackers.

The police took the men and all the cages and went to the forest where the animals were released. Billy was overjoyed and was filled with gratitude. The End —Amaya R.

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Long ago in a thriving village there lived a young three year old princess named Tallandria. Tallandria was always very kind and whenever she got a gift she would thank the person who gave it and give something in return. For she felt very bad for just taking the gift for free. Well, a couple of days later the queen, Tallandria’s mother, gave birth to a young girl named Eliyen. King and Queen Merwyn were very happy and they decided that they would give the throne to both Tallandria and Eliyen when Eliyen grew to age 13. So both Eliyen and Tallandria grew to be beautiful maidens. But there was a single problem. As Eliyen grew her greed grew to and once she learned that if she’d been the only sister born she would’ve owned the whole kingdom she decided to get rid of Tallandria. Every night she would hatch an evil plan only to learn that it hadn’t worked. Well, soon enough, she came of age and the girls split the kingdom in half, one side for Tallandria’s people and one side for Eliyen’s. Eliyen was a very selfish queen and made all of her villagers do work for her and build a castle as they starved and grew poor. Each person was only paid one single cent a day, this was hardly enough for food but Eliyen only cared for herself. On the other hand, Tallandria’s village was thriving! She paid each person about 34 dollars per day and each person was very happy. They constantly gave her small gifts and trinkets and she thanked them and gave them something in return. Well soon, Eliyen’s villagers got very, very sick with hunger and two of them died.

I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for my family because they make me happy.

—Bella S.

Tallandria decided to sneak food into the village but she couldn’t get caught or else Eliyen would get very mad. One morning she was heading to the first house when she heard Eliyen’s voice. “Well, well, well. Sister.

I thought I told you to leave my village!” Eliyen’s voice rang out like a lion’s, causing everyone to turn their heads around. “I’m sorry, Eliyen. But your people were sorry and this is my way of repaying them for being so kind to me and you all of those years back.” Eliyen growled at Tallandria’s words and said, in a growling voice, “I’m banishing you from these kingdoms and taking over yours! My people are too scrawny and weak! You have the count of three to leave! ONE, TWO, THR-” She was cut off by a loud voice in the background and whipped around to see many of her villagers standing there, glaring at her. “I can see what you think of us despite everything we’ve done for you! You have no gratitude and you will pay for that!

At least Tallandria was helping us to stay alive! We will sentence you to death you witch!” “Wait!” Tallandria yelled, causing them all to freeze, “I know that you are all very mad at her but she’s still my little sister, and I’m thankful for that. I say that we just banish her from the kingdom and keep her alive.” The villagers debated this before agreeing and Eliyen was thrown out. Now the kingdom was completely thriving and as Tallandria’s parents passed away, they knew that their home was in good hands.

THE END! —Nora K. Evan D.

The Recipe For Friendship 2 1/2 cups Kindness 2 Tbs Respect 1 3/4 cups Helpfulness 1 1/4 tsp Forgiveness 10 cups of Gratitude —Kyle M. I am thankful for video games. If I didn’t have video games I would be very bored and after school I would have nothing to do after school. I can talk to my friends and play with them through video games .

—Nicholas K.

I am thankful for the internet for keeping us together during the pandemic.

Spring/Summer 2022

What is gratitude. It is feeling grateful for what you have. We usually do this on Thanksgiving but really you can do it anywhere. There are many things to be grateful for. Your parents, the vaccine and all the brave workers who work in a pandemic. You can be grateful for teachers, your country, or even your ipad. There is always something to be grateful for all you need to do is to find it.

—Daniel G. I’m grateful for my family, I’m grateful for my friends and I’m grateful for life. I’m also grateful for the world.

—Zoe P.

Feather woke up to the first rays of Moonlight. She got up feeling excited for today. Today she was picking blackberries for her mother, Almond! Feather stretched her snowy white wings and dropped into the sky, soaring through the air. She went to her family’s secret blackberry patch and picked as many berries as possible before she wrapped them into a leaf. Then she started flying back before she bumped into a falcon. Feather fell from the sky and landed in a heap of icy snow. Pain crawled through her and she lay in the snow for hours to come.

“HELP!” Feather screamed, trying to get up.

She finally was able to crawl onto her talons without landing face-first into the snow. Feather heard a tiny skittering noise and tried to turn around to see what it was.

“Do you need help?” a soft voice said before a beautiful silky horse with soft feathery wings and a swirling golden horn stepped into Feather’s view.

“Yes please,” Feather said wondering how a magnificent creature like this one could ever existed.

“I’m Evergreen,” the horse said softly before gently sniffing Feather.

“I’m Feather,” Feather whispered, feeling a bit scared of the horse.

Evergreen inspected Feather before she said, “You have a broken wing Feather.”

“What will I do?” was all Feather could say, she was never going to return to Almond with berries now.

A gaping hole tore through Feather’s excitement and before she knew it tears were soaking the snow beneath her.

“Now, now Feather.” Evergreen said, reminding Feather that the silky horse was still there, “I can heal your wound easily.”

Evergreen touched her spiraling horn to Feather’s broken wing and immediately after a flash of light Feather was flying again. It had only occurred to Feather

Spring/Summer 2022

I’m grateful for my mom because she is the best mom and I love her. I am excited because she takes me places and she loves me. She tells me every time she drops me off at school that she loves me.

—Jamaunia J.

I’m grateful for my mom and dad because they take care of me. They feed me every day. Also other people do not have moms or dads. I feel sad because other people don’t have parents. I feel grateful for my sister too. We are a family.

—Irvanna G.

that she had forgotten to thank Evergreen when Feather woke the next day. She was going to visit Almond today and hopefully she wasn’t late. Almond wouldn’t mind if Feather took a quick detour right? Feather dropped back into the air and angled her wings in the direction of the place where she fell. When she reached it Evergreen was nowhere in sight.

“EVERGREEN?” Feather called, feeling a bit sad at the possibility that she might never be able to thank the silky horse.

“Feather?” Evergreens soft voice rang out around Feather and the silky horse touched down in front of Feather, “Oh Feather, you should really leave. I need to help my family find food. My family is starving. Its hard living in the Arctic.”

“No, wait Evergreen!” Feather called as Evergreen started to fly away, “Wait! I have a idea!”

“What?” Evergreen called.

“Well, my family has a blackberry patch that never runs out even in the winter.

“Wait, really?” Evergreen asked landing beside Feather.

“Yep, I have to show my gratitude somehow.” Feather said before taking off into the sky.

They reached the blackberry patch before sunset and each of them collected as many blackberries as possible.

“Thank you so much Feather,” Evergreen said, pulling Feather into a hug.

“Thank you too Evergreen.”

“Why?” Evergreen asked.

“Because you’re my friend.”

Evergreen smiled and flew off into the sunset and Feather flew toward her mother’s meeting area.

“Mother! I’m here!” Feather said landing before a giant willow tree. Hundreds more snowy owls arrived pouring out berries, nuts, and insects of all sorts to the tree.

Finally the tree spoke, “To my snowy children. Thank you for your gifts. I hope that I can see all of you grow

into beautiful, strong, and kind owls.”

Then the mother tree spoke her deep earthy poem in her deep earthy voice,

“Young owls and old, I thank thee for the gifts you bear, Make sure that you may always hear, Those who need your help, Deserve more than kelp, For kelp may be strong, But its helpings are very wrong, Kelp wraps you up in ways you seek, But short cuts are only a tiny peek, To the future you may hold, Let your past unfold, May you always find a way, To help those that need sunlight today, Let the sun shine through the rain, And trees grow to restrain, The cold the winter brings, Is nothing to what we’ve seen, I express my gratitude, May you always have a good attitude, Forget memories that we withdrew, Because feelings always stay true.”

Leaves floated down all around the owls, leaves of all different colors shining with happy memories.

“THANK THE MOTHER ALMOND! “Owls shouted out all around Feather but Feather was fixed on a shining leaf that had landed on her fixed wing. A happy memory swirled around on it of a shimmery horse and snowy owl.

“Thank you mother.” Feather said looking up at the willow.

She could’ve sworn the willow said, “Thank you for making a friend.”

THE END —Meya K.

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