hand washing

In a classroom filled with kids and teachers,
it is imperative that we wash our hands
A LOT.
Usually, it's 30 seconds at the sink
with that orange antibacterial goop,
but every once and awhile it's nice to slow down,
bring out the french-milled soap,
and turn it into an elegant affair. ;)

What you'll need:

• soap (the fancier the better) & a fingernail brush in a dish
• pitcher for warm water (Do you remember what the red line says?)
• hand towel
• mat (to organize materials and to catch any stray splashes of water)
• basin
  
• delicious hand cream

As I observed this child washing her hands,
I realized that she was having a special experience.
Not only did her body relax as she concentrated on her task,
but she took the time admire all the tiny details on her hands.
Taking a moment to care for herself became meditative and intimate.

I can't say exactly how this child felt
as she dried her hands and rubbed cream into her skin,
but I can tell you that after I took my turn,
my fingers were literally tingling with joy...
okay, you're probably thinking
cheesy!
but seriously, people,

it was like a Montessori spa!