Pencil Problem seems Solved!

I bought a bunch of pink pencils--bright, bright pink ones. I showed them to the class, and asked that no one else buy pink pencils like mine. I also told them that I could not afford to give them any more pencils. They are welcome to borrow a pencil for the day. I explained that "borrow" means to use for a while and then return to the lender in good condition. They evidently listened, because I still have all of the pencils. I do have to (usually) ask for their return at the end of the day, but I'm willing to do that. No one minds returning them, and I get an unsolicited "thank you" from most students.

This may be the best pencil idea I've ever had!

It's sad, the things that make teachers happy. ;)