Miss Magnuson

Way back in 1969-70 Miss Magnuson made a great impression on me. Miss Magnuson was a 4th grade teacher who wore clogs and long tunic vests like Rhoda Morgenstern and had bright red hair. She was the coolest teacher at St. Mary’s.

I had art class with Miss Magnuson. She introduced me to Neil Diamond as she played the Gold album during class while we created Mother’s Day gifts and Christmas presents for grandparents. Cherry Cherry, Brother Love’s Traveling Show, Holly Holy – the music released our creativity. I’ve loved Neil ever since, and always think of Miss Magnuson when I hear him.

Miss Magnuson also, over several classes while we were working (and Neil Diamond wasn’t spinning on the record player), read to us the story Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. As our clay was being sculpted into little pinch pots or as colorful masterpieces were created on paper with watercolors my favorite teacher read out loud the adventures of Charlie Bucket and four other children as they toured the ever mysterious chocolate factory of Willy Wonka. Miss Magnuson wove the story of rags to riches, good versus evil, wise Oopma Loompas, and the magic of imagination and won the hearts of her students. As they used to say in ’69, she was really groovy.

So what if it's a children's book? Snuggle into your favorite chair with it, a creamy Wonka chocolate bar, and a glass of wine. While you're at it, embellish your glass with one of these great little charms. The set of six charms can be found at my shop and feature Willy Wonka, Charlie Bucket, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregard, Augustus Gloop, and Mike Teevee.

Thanks Miss Magnuson, for the inspiration.