One Magic Classroom: We Wish You a Merry RECYCLED Christmas!

One Magic Classroom Presents: One Magic Recycled Christmas

A VINTAGE BOOK TREE!

A Mother-Earth-friendly Christmas tree made from recycled books, some vintage aprons for the skirt, and a lighted mason jar with antique baby shoes to top it off!

(Thank you, Kiera's mom, for the book tree idea).

Don't waste your money on a fake Christmas tree this year, my friends - get creative and make use of some old things that most of us probably already have lying around the house. That's right, grab your flashlight and head down to the basement to see what you can come up with. I ended up finding a box of vintage aprons I purchased at a garage sale several years ago and some very old baby shoes. Be unique and make a tree that represents you this holiday season, whatever that may be! So here's a blog post dedicated to making use of what other people consider trash, the very merry One Magic classroom way.

RECYCLED WRAPPING PAPER!

There's no need to fear, the recycled wrapping paper kids are here! Brown paper bags, twine, and newspaper inspire me. So before you head out in the frigid cold to buy wrapping paper, remember that you've already got plenty at home, and it probably arrived at your doorstep this morning.

In case you were wondering, the average American throws away almost 1,500 pounds of trash every single year (1,460 pounds to be exact, and you can quote me on that because I wrote it in a book). Of that 1,500 pounds, there's definitely some unnecessary "baggage" that comes from wrapping paper. Let's not just teach kids about recycling this season; let's actively involve them with it. (Note to reader: there may need to be a "rap" song written about "wrapping paper," and I have a feeling my 3rd graders are perfect for the assignment).

RECYCLED ORNAMENTS!

"Your mom got me a butler for Christmas. Can I name him Poopsie?"

Who doesn't want a butler name Poopsie? And yes, Hannah, you can name him Poopsie. Just tell them Ms. Sprengelmeyer said you can. Any questions, and I'll see them in after school detention.

There's always fun to be had with a box of vintage magazines. This season's assignment only had two requirements: It needs to be "repurposed" from a vintage magazine, and have a "thought bubble" in the spirit of Christmas, of course. Third graders are never lacking when it comes to spontaneity or creativity (sorry adults, but they're just more fun), so have a look at these "priceless" Christmas ornaments below.

"I got a watch for Christmas and I can't read it because I'm so old."

"I baked your Christmas cookies, but I had to eat them!"

"I hate this bird."

"No you don't."

This photo is a classic: the age-old story of being gifted something like knitted underwear and having to act as though you like it. This time, the boy simply isn't having it, and denial is a lovely thing, my friends.

Four easy steps to making your recycled ornaments:

1. Find the perfect picture.

2. Write the perfect message. Weird is good.

3. Paste! Add some macaroni if you're feeling festive.

4. MOD PODGE!

In case you're not familiar with MOD PODGE. I use this stuff all the time. Not only does it act as a type of glue, but it can also give your paper crafts a nice protective and glossy coat (like a brand new car). Remember, we want your ornaments to last after all those years of loving usage.

What you learned from today's lesson:

Sponsored by Kaleb and the Magic Elf.

1. We throw away a lot of stuff.

2. You should use that "egg-noggen" in your head (I know it's cheesy, but it's all in good holiday fun) more often and get creative with repurposing items.

3. MOD PODGE will be your best friend for many craft projects.

4. Make something for someone you love this holiday season. They won't be around forever, but your love will :)

5. Watch It's a Wonderful Life with your family, and tell stories afterwards. People should do those things more often.

P.S. Here's one more card that will make you smile...for the more sinister at heart.