tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70940261834286209262024-02-02T10:35:14.187-05:00Smack Dab in the MiddleHeather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-32501152213539830662016-03-20T14:27:00.001-04:002016-03-20T14:28:41.914-04:00ANOTHER SPRING TEACHER BLOGGER MEET-UP<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Take
your PASSION and MAKE it HAPPEN!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">Teaching is HARD. …and let’s be real, we regularly feel
complete </span><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;">underappreciated</span><span style="font-size: 13pt;"> for the time and energy we give to our passion.
…and before this weekend, I was feeling pretty over it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">…but, then everything about this weekend was exactly what I
needed to be rejuvenated for the rest of the school year. I LOVE teaching
and I love surrounding myself with other teachers who LOVE teaching as much as
I do; teachers who are passionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated to what they
do. I cannot think of a better way to spend a weekend! AND, I was
able to spend it with two of my favorite coworkers. Brittany @ [</span><a href="http://niftyinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">Nifty in First Grade</span></a><span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">] and
the event planner herself, Holly @ [</span><a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">Mrs. Ehle's
Kindergarten Connections</span></a><span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">].<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , serif; font-size: 13pt;">EVERYTHING about this weekend was amazing, but here are a few of
my favorite parts…</span></div>
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">Kim Bearden. I really feel like Kim and I should be best
friends, because I really just love everything this woman has to say.
“It’s not what happens to you that defines who you are, it is what happens
THROUGH you.” As teachers we have the opportunity to uplift our students
each day; to inspire them and make a difference in their lives. …of
course that can be challenging when we aren’t feeling all that uplifted
ourselves, so “be intentional about surrounding yourself with people that
fuel your soul.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z1tbtjP-sbA" width="560"></iframe>
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "josefin sans" , serif; font-size: 13pt;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "josefin sans" , serif; font-size: 13pt;">These are just a few of the people that fuel my soul. I
was so blessed to be able to spend the weekend with them and to meet some new
friends as well. …and it is so incredibly lame that we probably won’t see
each other until the next meet-up. (We should probably do something about
that…)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">oh, and I WON $100 gift card for [</span><a href="http://tieks.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">Tieks</span></a><span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">]!! There we so
many amazing sponsors that went out of their way to share some love with
teachers. I brought home some FABULOUS teacher swag, but I am definitely
most excited for my first pair of Tieks. …now I just have to decide
whether I go for the classic black look, or live life on the edge and go for a
fun color.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , serif; font-size: 13pt;">…and then there was the EPIC 80’s party complete with one,
awesome FLASH MOB! (I still think it would have been equally fun to leave
Amanda out there all on her own, but this was definitely one of the best parts
of the weekend!! LOVE YOU, GIRLS!)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , serif; font-size: 13pt;">I am so BLESSED to be a teacher, and this weekend reaffirmed
that I am doing exactly what I should be doing with my life! Take your
passion, and make it happen!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #575757; font-family: "josefin sans" , "serif"; font-size: 13.0pt;">Enter to win some teacher swag of your own and be sure to check
out what everyone else had to say about this amazing meet-up!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-84822752893726605022015-09-01T21:17:00.001-04:002015-09-01T21:19:28.245-04:00TEACHER WEEK: MY MAKE AHEAD SNACK<p>oh. my. goodness. It has been one of those weeks. I know it is only Tuesday, but Labor Day weekend can’t get here soon enough! …it is a welcome relief to take a little break from all things school and share one of my favorite recipes. <p><a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img title="tuesday meals" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="tuesday meals" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttgAgjLpvJBhjb7e0Pav0Gi3s_a0KDjv10g-ZVySLcYte_vQ8euuOUJw9NVwfN4X2rq_Ub-wJ9UJF4KBKHRmDJjQnTIVSAK-UjvGhACu-f9YN5nM5wDDNfEJITNtu5vkIW60VmECBDpw/?imgmax=800" width="270" height="273"></a> <p>DISCLAIMER: If you read my five fun facts yesterday, you know I just bought a house. Before my big purchase, I was living on the drive-thru and snack after snack because I never had time to make it home between school and evening commitments. …so I’m not really used to this whole cooking thing. <p>…so let me share with you my favorite, HEALTHY snack! My best friend introduced me to this stuff, and I am slightly addicted. (I really have no idea where she came up with the recipe, but you can find it [<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/59461657553188673/">here</a>] if you want to pin it.)</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibt0nEdjM-B9bnz7j6OROlIneZl-3JRLP_vO-RkKplzkhO31ZFb3ELjGeD3O4YDZ3mMLvsVo1udBo_a51ABeScqCW1b0gHF0mpWBx6rfiSaJW_lIUV1ULqI1c2M1g93i2Bh0bApQi7Jc8/s1600-h/BlackBeanCornSalsa%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="BlackBeanCornSalsa" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="BlackBeanCornSalsa" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuO6Ee0L9fjCmRSC6rTJNxh1XUdlMJAUa2_pi4vbQuiFwkUyB5Vrk19muUZh8TRg1_FMwYDIK2F-_D8OIVgKi2ye8v3I1U2DfEg3IzAKD8igM6VCiPPaW6bK6ibrvsZPZhSU6qKRmPwsw/?imgmax=800" width="470" height="358"></a></p> <p>The best part: It is incredibly simple to make. </p> <p>1 can of corn, drained<br>1 can of black beans, drained <br>1 small white onion, chopped<br>1 red pepper, chopped<br>3 tbsp olive oil<br>3 tbsp apple cider vinegar</p> <p>That is it! Combine, stir, enjoy, become addicted. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a></p> Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-46810750027800905952015-08-31T20:59:00.001-04:002015-08-31T21:12:25.310-04:00TEACHER WEEK: FIVE FUN FACTS<p>It is like the ladies at <a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog Hoppin'</a> were reading my mind. ...my blog has been a bit neglected lately, and I can't think of a better way to start giving it a little much needed attention than being a part of Teacher Week! <p>I could probably come up with MANY random and ridiculous facts about me, but… <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqsajVbwUA7cxkCNZB_dnCRFHEZv0_kcv5y91ASXl9HR2Hr8Wx39jKTkkxfecJ-KnwVImfLqpEshyRgckN-QdwEtA0Zu-bV9GfWa6xtn_J4VkLjn61lUrH8ShbKs02AIgRQPVwWfybGs/s1600-h/monday%252520fun%252520facts%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="monday fun facts" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="monday fun facts" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWWPxDZHZkq1FpaJMYpwapELolZhyphenhyphenZZFtAofWTMY-iUrlvxVapf9hODkgaMhpOJgAjCsLz7QnVZBi1sjiplC0A4m2LAohCOXwLizJRh_-zRX1-0w2alMVLlY2BPb3-svy7TbZDIBmvV0/?imgmax=800" width="269" height="270"></a> <p>1. I bought a house! ...and it is adorable if I do say so myself. I officially live like two minutes away from school and I am LOVING the twenty extra minutes I get to sleep in every morning. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0pKOcKsyh1bIEassWUmWdlT9x86FlaX74aWtjjQqtyE0Zix5g-lQaYcs-dulwl_FvwPe0Y-b8GcVS_RTJgb0_sdLwxDHqZlPtrhi0NqzJmCx5BEKKSQWkNxtFXXVrfZaM0aE0_BTlJI/s1600-h/House.2%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="House.2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="House.2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWZZYcANe3-tSVfYethi_n58XHJKnL-QhM9nQ756QKU1eXOahyphenhyphenhWqUl8p3kZxuMLEZ2Scdjg8SAEaDLYs6mGVagHvRBZw1Yi8BSo9IQpKbA3CfZuVpgI5s_rRRS6GGvreg292CSmCyGg/?imgmax=800" width="570" height="384"></a> <p>2. #lovemyhsyg. In addition to teaching, I am also the Youth Director at my church. This past summer I was blessed to go on a mission trip to South Carolina with the most incredible group of high schoolers. It was AMAZING and I am so proud of my little family. <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYWrzrPgvZM5I7ONhRFT3DKDGz5-jHQT-iLRR4dUUpnn4gw5xUd6xHyVA7Lu3QdSo2NVfPq9ailWY2larlSCsd9peGA0hy9QlHUFiOdsIIBKldYvXvYBYvYc1HOdDd4LGnUb9R0EBWqw/s1600-h/SCMission%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="SCMission" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="SCMission" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FqwRmN9mdcKzyi-cFHUKvvhUlPZfzqbodQpf1m58ickOMw6CCiK6uw590cE9qnwVBqfMd56xrWXwKw86wdSquyzqu4_RLdBmcSEFA_1diajIUa1jLdHU5K3TuYkyUmWAMSrVH3f3C48/?imgmax=800" width="565" height="415"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mEDSBhb7bk7xDw3mUt5yYqfELRc8F4kffoGrbeKEbCEsCU8dAYPF94JOyt4YEmsC-3Ju6xG9unNXbukQFcihW9kExcfPbGqI4hmf9ptlfmzRSY6GFVVE27vSuwdZxpgCJY2Xw8v2xMw/s1600-h/Seniors%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="Seniors" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Seniors" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNljLuugB1OT33FKE7LWmwsXom5UELtxS6hcrWsP_lDDj-MyP7G5ExtQROLyyCsAtpc_TFyp8NdZN1KZ5stBZUaTtx_n3_D_yGrxYSJS-kXAd5nQKcPULP_7Dn2UIqTUp-kplqiPEQmM/?imgmax=800" width="353" height="270"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87DNnnkX2kf5GWLFuBzB_mgGECkOc8V0WssUk6tyisshr1hwaygHTUhOQ0QIB_fQ1gaAjAL4e7W8Snc5ukMlMbfOusUBAqqFV-fGUfNIPzGBZZgc9se2FmmQzYuV-Cz8ylGTnFWYeP_g/s1600-h/The%252520Girls%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="The Girls" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The Girls" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9NFwEjjnZO8qBxaVMeo_CqwLxvOm2G96vioTRbT3Gri9GCdCHkYiWqi0E2V1VeNcTmM9RFwnrrAkrg5-t4kKQlKOPvXIKy5ASf358w7ZE-YTtgQNZIDo9m1EIEjAzquNZjFQCHs3Ieg/?imgmax=800" width="208" height="270"></a> <p>3. …I am pretty sure I run solely on Starbucks and Dr. Pepper. <p>4. If I weren’t a teacher, there is a good chance I would be a professional sleeper. I’m just really good at sleeping. …or I would be a librarian. …or a professional sleeper. <p>5. These girls are the best! I am so blessed to teach with my wonderful, talented friends. This year we are taking our school by storm to make this year THE BEST YEAR EVER!! Our school theme this year is “Mission: Possible” because we know that with God, all things are possible. On the first Friday of the school year we surprised our students with an afternoon of Agent Training! Among other activities, each student had to have their photo taken for their Agent ID. …and we may have taken over the photo booth for a few pictures. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgFvwixonWWGh70_WxFf8ZFpFFl2d3ZneAm0KcnF2CmumpqKimNJkdOOeNZlAlYhyphenhyphenx3o55tlujbj76Jkw34MaVWZsNGfHMs75iHbhObgpsq-ZB0YVkC7AKQ1RFNKVgl96GkcVmHZSJ7Y/s1600-h/Agent%252520Training%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Agent Training" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Agent Training" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0DU78URbqWYFaUP2jT-kSZqtBFRLFIrS4cJ5OU7DuhuAGMMctHRQQoGEJsEN7DyQ4RP3tLa7oiwj826ZW5DxjXu7pX9nO4cFwbLcltI_flC1zk3Zu3nyfHkJxq6a4YsC7OCTsN9DbaU/?imgmax=800" width="565" height="376"></a> <p>…and that is a little bit about me! If all goes according to plan, I will be back tomorrow with a few of my favorite recipes. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a> Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-74840117503022473382015-06-16T17:18:00.000-04:002015-06-16T17:20:25.770-04:00LIVING THE DREAM! #RONCLARKACADEMY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: none; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hfOJn-YthT2-aFDrD_yPMTkBfIT9hUnM-BYnMfifDOl2hbWRM69H4SkIVdOOG0M-V5-Xh7YKxaPB9_aLrEJyPJwpIkyt86leFepffcp0sdzU6nknlty9BwRq39OKtg8z3pt159pV3Qw/s1600/RCA.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hfOJn-YthT2-aFDrD_yPMTkBfIT9hUnM-BYnMfifDOl2hbWRM69H4SkIVdOOG0M-V5-Xh7YKxaPB9_aLrEJyPJwpIkyt86leFepffcp0sdzU6nknlty9BwRq39OKtg8z3pt159pV3Qw/s320/RCA.png" width="320" /></a></div>
guys. I quite literally lived my DREAM when I attended the National Educators’ Conference at Ron Clark Academy at the beginning of June. yeah. <a href="http://www.ronclarkacademy.com/" target="_blank">RON CLARK ACADEMY</a>!! …I have spent every day since then trying to figure out exactly how to put into words how truly amazing this experience was. I’m still not sure if I am going to be able to do it justice, but I am certainly going to try.<br />
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It all started last summer. …I mean, I have always been a Ron Clark fan. The summer before I started college I remember reading his book, The Essential 55, and being completely inspired. …but last summer, after I read Crash Course by Kim Bearden, the co-founder of RCA, I officially added visiting Ron Clark Academy to my bucket list. It is, hands down, the BEST professional development book I have ever read. I laughed, I cried, and I learned so much from this book, yet not one sentence was written to tell me how to teach. It was honest, moving, inspiring, and motivating. READ IT!! <br />
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okay. Visiting Ron Clark Academy was officially on my to do list, but I didn’t actually think it was going to happen any time soon. …then, we did it. We leapt. We decided we were going to make it happen. period. [Can I just tell you how truly blessed I am to be on staff with these ladies!? Holly @ <a href="http://http//mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. Ehle’s Kindergarten Connections</a>, Brittany, and Michelle are the most incredible support system. I love them and all of the amazing plans we have for the future! #positiveposse.]<br />
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…so on Thursday we started our road trip. Fort Wayne, Indiana to Atlanta, Georgia is a little much for one day, so we made a detour to Nashville where I splurged on my first Kendra Scott necklace and went on a self-guided tour of Opryland. <br />
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[I know, Michelle is missing, but don’t worry, she catches up with us in Atlanta.]<br />
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This sounds ridiculous, but I had so many butterflies as we rode that shuttle from our hotel to RCA for the first time. I had so many expectations, but at the same time I had no idea what to expect. …well, let me tell you, it blew every single one of my non-expectations out of the water. As we entered the library, and had our picture taken with THE Ron Clark, the music was blaring, everyone was dancing, and we were immediately greeted by the students of RCA. The rest of the evening is a bit of a blur; the students gave us tours of their AMAZING school, we were able to observe some of the BEST teachers in action, and we were sorted into houses. #reveurforlife. oh, and there was one heck of a party in the gym. …and by party I mean a full out concert. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2dNSBXfAk5rvQ_3Wglp9bR5X2el71VUy0rB996_V-ZoC3JpKe3Fb-hX_dcbC4Eqd1RFJWG0jKKrbKQ0xFvtvp_R73LqfsmztyMZRL1EkN2hXT0xZp8vuxGTnzvb1JeaHgOGjG8IW5mo/s1600-h/IMG_1413%25255B22%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1413" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDwOoJXxovSl4HnhpNZ9GMRJpU9rXTrSbcA-IpEorlngql2_4oDfxu_yBFoyOgaL3TdQ6GDejvPHf2mshkb46WmS85FeDxQyEuTrSEYFySyWEEEnImXwsa09GcDyxugiwMfVYq47S9dY/?imgmax=800" height="436" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1413" width="555" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPzyeG5zNkqQU1GgT6N9PXdlGngKlqTpDUlu13t5LuxbNMRkpcz7lSluI-2SZ9jVZXSCtDd3-mYO0Y95rRO-4uLANTAPAPJZdwBZvwlnMT7THvcaqclCHRLtfQ9aoSYk8ZBRZc5ds22CI/s1600-h/IMG_1373%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1373" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeTJlP8c68c1jFlHCeM330wna_6vSuB0ZwC1D3E7x8-a_cTN2BuOYGJkkCeqcw6mJvnIrtP5Ajo13pKzNa-JAdbfO_7pJO3a9CM5xFUorD_zROkDtiDS7pM7ry78-UJ58cLsAuaxMrhtQ/?imgmax=800" height="360" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1373" width="275" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrEiEYBL0iKdj2-xVgmqQVOUgpkJjJ-LeqsplIZQTDpNKW-LJDXfnRt5zsxl2RCZhKp3INGOxFERNT5LGIOijQkA3y6mUjQD03Sn7yDiw29I1srEtJxhE1eJTXLR8UvVqOtECL2JC7vY/s1600-h/IMG_1375%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1375" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTrCY-kUSu9fI63HLSqIsfIPa3EESJ_3YKQC-ZTNLtWio0sF9dIiXfhSKlyoETi4S7v4tscp_V7kUrDH6xzitgldEwjYPjAw2KJamcVnZ1KfkQ-QTv2qfDEyhHX6LPZJbvFxIOTKBClpI/?imgmax=800" height="360" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1375" width="275" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Bj_gokGeO38BCizKTQy7JrFP97D_z8qgJfKbPIy0_3yIGTSNn42KW-gIX5BaXPBXl_dUka2HSw-aFjQgI68hrN735oMr11td5xlwWWZ99tH4jzIUa8yv0qAzo4EXlIFiWHHQGNa1H5g/s1600-h/IMG_1389%25255B20%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1389" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR1POq-92wQk5oWAD1DsLdVBITFxyTtsYxjm0Uu_AA3KKQOjLgyrqj5Vr-ShkQpjqEFFYLP_cYPZwLYM4Z8HT9equcVNsBV2ua6VAgH_0ntzOzTTKIOTten0bnvLuCh1mxfO0nPqo8i-I/?imgmax=800" height="264" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1389" width="345" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYF_oAUxMbRoHyYvmKPl9JQeKklAPUsCQbgmzRb4zj3SZUEZL9-vQxVLl9YowKPhYMomgur7kc_5Lwp3tZvAMOfZroKWvJBKQ3Ve9ZCK48z4UKcnZd_63BO977Jzt83rFiwuQRBZ3UwSs/s1600-h/IMG_1396%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1396" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOb_nEJTp8WUwceT1q3lbMgrxaRQ3Gt8JrhRXvUh7_mWl2G3mA4tg3lMZu52uw6XHED_Hq9CLlRF2M_j6qRn3XgvqssT1OBTfa0zZHKBkR1ofWW1ITDx6zI7J0bOHLqBsqONVsf-JZEY/?imgmax=800" height="264" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1396" width="203" /></a></div>
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On Saturday we attended a variety of workshops, observed students and teachers in action, attended a special viewing of their spring musical, AND became SLIDE CERTIFIED!! …because why should we be taking the stairs when we can take risks and SLIDE!!? …but honestly, by the end of the day, my brain was spinning. I was in awe of RCA’s expectations of students and staff. There was just so much to take in.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPgeYMI86XElPHGtJVC2XLTAcrPpWZ9lRF2YGV0TAOAfDare02wKqqR8N7hNX7aOBy5tFWT9RMJrGjahL9LgmvEdTBjLwiBVvLocC0UejEWCIV-UyhnS6n6P3RwtMBfw0d12ZuwX3LRm0/s1600-h/IMG_1423%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1423" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgfBB45mH5RRFboP5TkdLgcWwQnJq_IsFK1ERURnVaYZaxQ0sQvsHUKV_Rd1CipblfygjlzytAt1EECY1aZAj0c1I-XKKHjaDpABJ6xcDN_r7RTa9ZPFldNTbhvv-kv7s275fT76v1D4k/?imgmax=800" height="285" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1423" width="373" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQD8kjmH4ig2V9YU9enVKc2Lg42nUbKDxNqUnOneSlUpp7PZbYJ6yi5jGDbYlqzpD1ky5ApyZURMjCI7SH_KoEdgO42uwK2Sh9ETW-vm7asLuvxXMZn9Pr_tlPxO46xGn336unezWDidM/s1600-h/IMG_1432%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1432" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4ISaqEeY_R3bSTlWO75lQHvb6NnVimRX53Evu6TwKr5ROjwaWw3rw6NVxemTVKB0SZL-1o_fpYWlySXJ13Pqbud5JD18F-AsWA_v-unYQsv-zPomBl7N7wEA3wP8jVQVNzgmfxE1bhk/?imgmax=800" height="285" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1432" width="175" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVOlpIpzzq9KPPLi8XN5kQEvKlju0EYQXXjIayOkxN9YCyPqtXVs9-KbKgLKZ4Q3VcRo3ULuoxK1SO69WcYibcOaoCK6Bp3ip5V0Y9XoIB4bX8ppZACumIRHnW7duetBe-vEqWVrTCDc4/s1600-h/IMG_1435%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1435" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYl9d4U2Rx5BIHvl3fNc7_-pFAsGu9Mf2EBvAj038etx2um_b3wPWPU1APgCchcvcGPFSjK9SDzgI3d5ohsmXbgozZzI-f-sELvh3mkcco-Y3HpMLvnmV8YIAwnywNnzWHTWxlKOb6zw/?imgmax=800" height="555" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1435" width="555" /></a></div>
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[yes, that is Hope King!!]<br />
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As if everything we had experienced so far wasn’t enough, TAcKy PRoM was Saturday night. oh my goodness. …I think this picture speaks for itself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0tkwft5Ima2k_FsoYmJyTqyDwcArSTxLHT_Lsm5fAVBs76vf1hFTgR_hikCyag4SHivmt68RNqwhJQacepdW5NVQZcENoEzF7tutyRnvmLERIofOd7JrtoP3YG4veuWRDvRdXQwG0Ak/s1600-h/IMG_1439%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1439" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjw4gjtL0MC2xS2_lL7ue3w90OJ13c8nRWL8bPNDb0xkGQFO54Yh89TwV5Z-FhbR4jhVXUPxGvmPrJw4GYlMpA5va-V2lcFOV_vgUYH5hLDfZuzMf-3yvoV2PKsfoW9_DbxpsJF6XK4Mc/?imgmax=800" height="421" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1439" width="555" /></a><br />
…it was our last morning in Atlanta that truly pulled everything together for me. I had so many ideas swirling around in my brain. I just kept asking myself, how do I take this back to my school and make a difference? How do I create this excitement for learning? How do I inspire my students to succeed; to take the SLIDE? …it was like the RCA staff was reading my brain. We spent the morning hearing from some of RCA’s exceptional educators. Wade and Hope King talked about the changes they made at their school after they visited RCA for the first time. Kim Bearden reminded us to seek SIGNIFICANCE not achievement. Ron Clark talked about connecting with the students and making each learning experience an adventure. #bestdayever.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYCsbSXk5pu5YN31vI1UH2x4XiBlSlrp-SI5B2_M0OkTuX_TO3choqSNNjMqElu3AVEXhNHBLVJVzbPIFJWmR-89cvUbD5mEWxeJ_7okn7QsimbD5VRuf_ni9C3rbBaqe9mA2zGII19Pc/s1600-h/IMG_1489%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1489" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjSqIKN7g80vVrEj1FZiGFimUWGF6nbyIBWtOCAFIx5OKduOXpLLgKKnvchzpLDKT60NY_o4ICicOuSftlPHyFHZ3vLu0pfNm-uZFZ2izcfU9bnCpquqzo9aR1L8_W7A6UAq0-yWeVBE/?imgmax=800" height="421" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_1489" width="555" /></a><br />
okay. …so, here are the things I am taking away from my trip to Ron Clark Academy.<br />
<ol>
<li>Next year my room is going to be THE place to be. I already kind of love my classroom, but I plan to add a few extra personal touches to take it to the next level. “It isn’t fluff. It is the first step to engagement.”</li>
<li>I WILL put in the extra time to transform my classroom for some of my favorite units. …I’m not exactly sure how, but my classroom will look drastically different when my students show up on that first morning of my Picture Book Production unit.</li>
<li>I will be AWESOME!! …let’s face it, teachers are entertainers. If I want my students to buy into their education then I better be ALL in with them. I will definitely be using some different “call and response” chants in my classroom next year and if I can get my short little legs up on our desks without breaking myself, that will happen too!!</li>
</ol>
okay. #longestblogpostever.<br />
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Ron Clark Academy was AMAZING!! …really, AMAZING doesn’t even begin to describe it. …and since I didn’t get a good picture with Kim Bearden, I fully intend to go again!! <br />
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go. seriously. Just make it happen. It will be so incredibly worth it! <br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" />Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-50663386222369024452015-05-03T00:07:00.001-04:002015-05-03T00:08:59.166-04:00IT’S CURRENTLY MAY!<p>Hello May! The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and summer is FINALLY right around the corner. …what better way to celebrate than linking up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/">Farley</a>. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitclXxsW2tRZlnb8eT_QH2rMcA9SKu6iiP2Ncj3Ap9Kp49hOCaIiO4v__-6pZPPS877wRzf6JkvuqyBrflp-5ZhmDfc4k8p4rbfgZKa3fwwRE_Xx_zqxfBG1QC03KeF1UtP8ySBUGMwEE/s1600-h/Currently.May%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="Currently.May" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="Currently.May" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ44_LTCXkSmnBJx7Pm5gKsSYmvSxm-TQhk6KJhEAYhbzfZg7g-eOPyR2nf5bbxAHEPIr9S8EhVuHyV3yANEAKlPDv02Y2plfs38C7Qd1Ft5lHIYR-PWdV7e-Q8n-GcZKi2PgI4egNAAY/?imgmax=800" width="595" height="788"></a> <p>LISTENING: ...I blame my best friend. She got me hooked over spring break when I spent endless hours at her house working on the yearbook. Now every time I come over we marathon as many episodes as possible. Mr. Fitz is super hot, and A is a bit terrifying. <p>LOVING: While I LOVE my job, I love summer and sunshine! <p>THINKING: I am so unprepared for this Outdoor Education trip. Each year my 6th graders and I ditch the classroom and make our way to Camp Lutherhaven for a two-day camping extravaganza. ...wish me luck!! <p>WANTING: I repeat, I LOVE my job, but I am ready to enjoy my summer. ...and I have so many exciting things to look forward to... <p>NEEDING: There are still so many things that need to be accomplished before the end of the school year. It is hard to believe that I only have eighteen days left with my lovely 6th graders. <p>YES, I am going to Ron Clark Academy for the National Educator's Conference!! I am beyond excited! ...and the best part is that I get to go with the best coworkers. [Brittany @ <a href="http://niftyinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/">Nifty in First Grade</a> and Holly @ <a href="http://www.mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/">Mrs. Ehle's Kindergarten Connections</a>] <p>...I always have high HOPES for a relaxing summer of lake time, sunshine, and hours of napping in the hammock. ...but then when summer actually hits, it is one thing after another and before I know it I am setting up my classroom for another year. ...of course, if my DREAM comes true, it will probably cut into my lake time. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-67227834589783409142015-03-30T00:00:00.000-04:002015-03-30T00:00:01.080-04:00NINJA BUNNIES $1.00 SALEThe Ninja Bunnies have been going crazy in the stores of some of my favorite Indiana Bloggers. TODAY and TOMORROW we will be offering all of the fabulous products listed below for ONE DOLLAR.<br />
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THREE of my favorite products are listed for only $1.00 AND my [<a href="http://smackdabinthemiddleschool.blogspot.com/2015/03/genius-moments.html" target="_blank">Genius Moments</a>] on sale!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Genius-Moments-Brain-Building-Question-Cards-for-ALL-levels-of-Blooms-Taxonomy-1758324" target="_blank"><img alt="Brain Building Question Cards.Middle School" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrVaxI2e-Kpwe9oeEUYHUmIdhLXybvp-lKyvgXGjEJR9dSSq3OcjJEoXH0z8nm3EecAB4r4MMjH0ROc-aqm9agYz-pbrzBqOe2hl7Uf5suF1IrcQLqSoCk9FAGTpUqxpfUIu5wkzn2Wc/?imgmax=800" height="220" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="288" /></a><br />
Check out my previous posts on [<a href="http://smackdabinthemiddleschool.blogspot.com/2014/05/hop-to-more-organized-classroom.html">My Spectacular Substitute Binder</a>] to learn more about the binder that has repeatedly saved my life. You can also grab my Skittles Probability Study. It is the perfect, tasty way to introduce the difference between theoretical and experimental probability, OR a great, quick review. …and let’s be real, YUM! AND, who doesn’t need a set of task cards to review adding and subtracting decimals!<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Skittles-Probability-Study-1326669" target="_blank"><img alt="skittles probability" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUJlXffQ0kDWkoTp87A-UgBvuqN2gxoRH_QDiPFR6AWSKj05ro-rxtlMWmfNG_4Sl_B5Qkknf2BcihXQkHQXjLS9PD3KpUxgReJY9QlGkkWLb_O7HRSReK7mdqJPvUEMdShxitr1U4fc/?imgmax=800" height="180" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="skittles probability" width="233" /></a> <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spectacular-Substitute-Binder-1232000" target="_blank"><img alt="Sub. Binder Product Image" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2kcIqt7PJWcrt7loscu6X2l7I4dwXZCNCjJUkxpiBIRtUBFgkhWnUIZsIJfr_nignoM5-nYK77J7XFQS-0EGVGqOHCcZu8Ed-P9eeTRKuGdGNoiiHCLSCFFNHxqV7izLfRP8gORh61L4/?imgmax=800" height="180" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Sub. Binder Product Image" width="177" /></a> <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Adding-and-Subtracting-Decimals-Task-Cards-1204761" target="_blank"><img alt="Adding and Subtracting Decimals Task Cards" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4jG4TZi31C6IfY64z_x-3BXT_Ag6YE7a_lgWKIffLhOA5VQGtVwWXv8r8gKl_MGMHwhS2_P7PhgWwxFcDYLX92nOh2LoxrfaCX5w4qhi72WyiC5zVPxV278xW0JUx0p_BozvmAm_p0g/?imgmax=800" height="180" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Adding and Subtracting Decimals Task Cards" width="211" /></a></div>
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Last year, fifty-four teacher bloggers gathered in French Lick, Indiana for a relaxing weekend away. This year there were over one hundred teachers from all over who came to be a part of this INSPIRATIONAL event. <br />
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Everything about this weekend was exactly what I needed to be rejuvenated for the rest of the school year. I LOVE teaching and I love surrounding myself with other teachers who LOVE teaching as much as I do; teachers who are passionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated to what they do. AND, I was able to spend it with two of my favorite coworkers. Brittany @ [<a href="http://niftyinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Nifty in First Grade</a>] and the event planner herself, Holly @ [<a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. Ehle's Kindergarten Connections</a>].<br />
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On Friday night we decided to explore the West Baden Springs Hotel. …I love me some history, and it doesn’t take much to understand why this hotel was once called the “eighth wonder of the world.” …and we are pretty adorable as well, if I do say so myself.<br />
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Saturday. The Main Event. …a teacher tool swap, technology tips and tricks, round table discussions, and a pajama party!!<br />
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The teacher tool swap was broken into grade levels. I loved the opportunity to spend some time with my “middle school” girls. There were so many brilliant tools. I think there is a good chance that I will be investing in a stapleless stapler very soon. yes, that is a real thing. My favorite part of the day was the round table discussions. I grabbed so many great, simple ideas for increasing student engagement, getting myself more organized, and making the most out of the iPads in my classroom. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUW3kubie7513eNIoou7IMoQ62d7yWb4v9VbQCPsAbKJGECP5JcPdwFfUQBbSsXpk_FDeWBX8FnbxYM_1hD5a4hdNTcPMCD2ymPoUD2HrpC6G5n57akpo93S6mg5GupDbny30C3Thn9jI/s1600-h/girls%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img alt="girls" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCtaDpMIqZgYvelO4yvDdTOG-MV1byvsNEkyyENK5w8GPW1Rorjpe08wzcpeJeYnjtDzYKYBuXSLxpikGWEnUjQOKBOjLHDMTWbJhEVnJc4aOVzOeGPOF1zwNwmSn7KHOrVr02Fhmong/?imgmax=800" height="340" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="girls" width="435" /></a><br />
oh, and we got to take home some really fabulous #teacherswag!! [Keep reading to win your own Spring Teacher Blogger Swag Bag!]<br />
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<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvz5AzKr7XDolZ2UzYfpqxblK4614COSVfUDDrvo9blsbTy5-kUYwnQDLSJHhoXjsQ50CckDvMaUiKmiMRlx-JuNnKGglQVmY3NVS2NyCCidg228qT6SnYip90zrjOPmEbiD7y4O1fZO0/s1600-h/_DSC0750%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="_DSC0750" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWj7v0X1VQq8nmHMfO27oMW4tOve-M9Gbug1ENYTETREStc3zBmtZh6d52vICK1I4xH9B_hJFsvAANnmIoaZ2qbI7PZU1BGc2EoKUoCCWyqTcFEWjh6gMgTEggko7UD81trRHxzaxje68/?imgmax=800" height="180" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="_DSC0750" width="260" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2K5F07TD0qXtWT1vn984opsFDVu-L-VSbw_7CoJ_raRZyuTktuB7Uo4Ym-ZAKKKvU12hvl3oWbK5DB_VRXyprTaE8MZm3S3b1yP7C_25M3BShvsqW_Y4SqOxPzPKhDbTsh37qnT_oCE/s1600-h/_DSC0753%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="_DSC0753" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_0Eb6kEnIJR1X4h2nq3eFijMm565cBzGNjJNK9Xky0PhlslzCAUkLEZYh3hi8NPBh5s2WrwzF8i78pLpnq-pyoxCyFMlQNqRoUkZCmKOuDTzHiAjx4cQmEO2ZFYGvAXjzwLX0Uk47rjQ/?imgmax=800" height="180" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="_DSC0753" width="260" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFXGNDHa7JVgootCJb0sortHIoJNiGx-ckLQP7782UvsQ5lze41P2gEsIuO5Bv0rcojMuKh89Oz6NkD8talIpjTPwLM7fq3wauM2owLm8KFNaATdMMuhoW7CJ3nr3f0wb9ZdowbytEJw/s1600-h/planner%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="planner" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAD39bk7yyqSsYECX2Va3nNEOz6E88YaLVRw8pOApWZH_ehGdNkA0VH2okPIy8RLudCe7AvVuyGY0wYK_WEKVkT9d0cTl1TC5nIj_o8CkTdPRs_jI-kdmvOSRZy92uBGuBnJe1gX79daY/?imgmax=800" height="185" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="planner" width="144" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIaEAA0-CKPrcUEb-vIlcEsS_N6K-Wgea3tLSODoovKPEd7m8gO3rXf60Dv1ebViVhMMI0At4f6RzLLsgExC9-5EWqKk8R20ONsFYJNzGqCKoQtuOuCCyKE0MY492GTi_iF-kgvKroOA/s1600-h/_DSC0756%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="_DSC0756" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh6De2BtgKpsj4xssDGnw1e42Efct2DZ6uTjcnLkOps1Fn2Mk9x1NCInvgrFFMXTCVzx-U9jIktzMNpEQ55PWt5gj6Ee6dHgzAAJZydT1dsXWanFwvTfo_UvPSaV9dUm_g6NmNsAjwP5U/?imgmax=800" height="185" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="_DSC0756" width="377" /></a></div>
As if that wasn’t enough, [<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TeachersPayTeachers" target="_blank">Teachers Pay Teachers</a>] and [<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoNoodleGames" target="_blank">GoNoodle</a>] sponsored a pajama party so that we could be INSPIRED all evening. …everyone who brought a business card, walked away with someone else’s card; someone to encourage and uplift in the coming months.<br />
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<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQPXpbnwmcGY9b0izNRObNZYTteh-B4T5vPhlj7h_MW2_G6X-sig5JWAc4-4uNzn7JMcdJb6rh0OExDq7R8mm1W-l5FDuPTYifLdbVDUhxUj-eXn9D-zIkypjhaF8IXBjV3ZLRe3TP1PQ/s1600-h/pj%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img alt="pj" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicyKnFj3AXx2W7IVahC_mjqd-gnUx9Nrd-fpzv64luhZczKmS_rFF484L8cG46Su9QuuG3asUOcwDhv3h8wK4ljWsPVhqN2UXnn4fjzJ6Ws1TV0gFT8o_efsCxCxebypCZo2YyZ_7_S0U/?imgmax=800" height="320" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="pj" width="369" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">“A key to growing as a teacher is to keep company mainly with teachers who uplift you, whose presence inspires you and whose dedication drives you.” –Robert John Meehan</span></strong></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><br /></strong></span>
I feel so blessed to have been a part of such an amazing weekend! <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" /></a><br />
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Spring Teacher Blogger Swag Bag</div>
<br />
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="7ceb9ad038" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/7ceb9ad038/" id="rcwidget_l03xtx7m" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Our students NEED to brainstorm and discuss ideas! Talking in the classroom is a good thing!! <p>To be more specific, teachers should be intentionally challenging students by asking a variety of questions that enable students to use their reasoning, critical-thinking, and creative-thinking skills. An EXCELLENT way to do this is by using Bloom’s Taxonomy of multi-level questioning. If you are a teacher, you probably know all about Bloom’s taxonomy. …or at least you remember hearing those words once or twice when you were in college. <p>I spend a lot of my day asking a variety of questions to further understanding, but do I truly ask questions that require a higher level of thinking? …not always. I mean, if I am in the middle of giving instruction, I can’t necessarily know if I am actually hitting ALL SIX types of questioning!! <p>…so what are GENIUS MOMENTS? <p>In my classroom, I refer to the unexpected “extra moments” that I find within my schedule as GENIUS MOMENTS! You know what I mean, the three extra minutes you have before the bell rings, or the four extra minutes you have because your students finished their center rotations early. If you are like me, you don’t want to waste one, single minute of classroom instructional time! I turn those extra, unplanned moments into GENIUS MOMENTS! <p align="center"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Genius-Moments-Brain-Building-Question-Cards-for-ALL-levels-of-Blooms-Taxonomy-1758324" target="_blank"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Brain Building Question Cards.Middle School" border="0" alt="Brain Building Question Cards.Middle School" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrVaxI2e-Kpwe9oeEUYHUmIdhLXybvp-lKyvgXGjEJR9dSSq3OcjJEoXH0z8nm3EecAB4r4MMjH0ROc-aqm9agYz-pbrzBqOe2hl7Uf5suF1IrcQLqSoCk9FAGTpUqxpfUIu5wkzn2Wc/?imgmax=800" width="460" height="350"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Genius-Moments-Brain-Building-Question-Cards-for-ALL-levels-of-Blooms-Taxonomy-1758324" target="_blank"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Brain Building Question Cards.Middle School.3" border="0" alt="Brain Building Question Cards.Middle School.3" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWr9d9k5Ok3NM-Sc_MkLkoGYMFQYaveYlbSAJWwq8BLq7z58Oz68lmRsP8Nz72lSaBm-f37q0_yY5JVl5tKGxzIDif30tq86Yw5AQXPOh7xpM9wKRlL3cj_OVDu9LL-sL5gNf3VyE-A6I/?imgmax=800" width="260" height="200"></a><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Genius-Moments-Brain-Building-Question-Cards-for-ALL-levels-of-Blooms-Taxonomy-1758324" target="_blank"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Brain Building Question Cards.Middle School.4" border="0" alt="Brain Building Question Cards.Middle School.4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggVkVZS_Fbhuw0Qh9OHUoS3KQSAQXSyt-aSFahfWdvYTEh1lSEjbHZS8eL72QaGLQVfNY-pNlVZ1otxZk-Zw9pks7GNO6JgLEk4JBUSjexU4qiUB9V4_iYbCTrVYpdJC-OYsOhNR2QKxI/?imgmax=800" width="260" height="200"></a></p> <p>[<a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mrs. Ehle’s Kindergarten Connections</a>] and I are working together to bring you a variety of tools, all based on best practices, that can help you make the most of those GENIUS MOMENTS! The Genius Moments: Brain Building Question Cards are one of those super-simple, yet very impactful tools! Check out the Middle School Edition [<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Genius-Moments-Brain-Building-Question-Cards-for-ALL-levels-of-Blooms-Taxonomy-1758324" target="_blank">here</a>] and find Mrs. Ehle’s Primary Edition [<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Genius-Moments-Brain-Building-Question-Cards-All-Levels-of-Blooms-Taxonomy-1739222" target="_blank">here</a>]. </p> <p>…and be sure to check back for more tools that you can use to turn your unexpected extra moments into GENIUS MOMENTS!</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-53540650523390588752015-02-14T11:57:00.000-05:002015-03-01T11:58:33.536-05:00THE VALENTINE’S SURPRISE<p>“Create moments that will have a lasting impact on children's lives." -Ron Clark <p>It may not be the most educational moment that takes place in my classroom, but it is definitely one of my favorites moments! <p>…while student teaching, I had the best cooperating teacher ever. She went above and beyond to share her passion for teaching. She was an expert at creating moments in and out of the classroom. ...and if I am being honest, I totally stole this moment from her. <p align="center"><font size="7" face="FISHfingers">[The Valentine's Day Surprise]</font> <p>I love using Valentine’s Day as a unique opportunity for parents to remind their children how much they love them. I provide the construction paper, the streamers, and the opportunity for parents to sneak into their child’s classroom the evening before Valentine’s Day. Parents provide the sweet treats, the love notes, and the creativity. <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKr1HLnU41a6QQp0ajIwWgleWaeTat8BroY1mStCw9eAaBaivvgqtXfU5s2MfozZkJibUP7PmSpUeG9GhaUFRkxGOBm86fPFyHYfqEGld7P1tTrSAboOQsnhU_ZmaN7O9zkKux-ZMfdk/s1600-h/ValentineSurprise.1%25255B12%25255D.png"><img title="ValentineSurprise.1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="ValentineSurprise.1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielHw6OCy9T9slXvHfjYulGRoucnHSwmMaBWCWFTRYYeSQGEwWf1VF71vDNTG0TkJNFNtJ3nXLrtJ9MZK485bYA8jOi0iBnRMp3LotNHJ7fMEOB2NbERAXcv2Fl2u9CCRDsOQk4jUNqjM/?imgmax=800" width="199" height="275"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZQeFXdhC7cynyYHdY3Dvngti-15huvEWpgQCVorxp0iXiMPoj8Vm4pIvZMn6YyFk2ZC3qr1HK74tM0kDYon7FRvodgPy0EpkSl0RVGflBCvEkF_hyphenhyphen7rT3-yjfHh3g28OFLUZUYz_QxM/s1600-h/ValentineSurprise.2%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="ValentineSurprise.2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="ValentineSurprise.2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4n0mKYpeLeCOBU2XSsesRCJu1SuEqnG55hfA1xaMqrXIAtWE958EZDU8P4TvuC9wIv9VtAo64YlbSoZ8mII-Y_fYHeo1smk7eHNTYKihh1i0cTbjQBN5Am-0KptSzbPAAPNYN0jMZGU/?imgmax=800" width="423" height="275"></a></p> <p>…because I teach at a small, Lutheran school, most of my students know it is coming; that only seems to increase their excitement! I love the looks on their faces when they see the Valentine's explosion that seems to take place in our classroom overnight. They smile from the moment they walk into the classroom, until I send them home on a sugar high that afternoon. <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkL4iqAdZ2J_JJwpAJPpbn06ekO2ttJywCNjWDn3me2RFfybkIWl4z7RsquRbFI4YZ07wKeJ7AciBs-pH0kB_bcogLWEuY-hqpDiUB4makgpouYE6py6E3CNEiyVfrKQX1xSa-ZsgybE/s1600-h/ValentineSurprise.3%25255B12%25255D.png"><img title="ValentineSurprise.3" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="ValentineSurprise.3" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiwFSOtHwLoP7q2P8mfdnzoug-I2HUUhfdN7fruF7c46RIV_FKVH-IVXowbbgKNnQ3IM4oU5qE-LxwmPaJZFvp4TGrcP7mxUbSTj2dx7A8N9Co7Voas2l17DS_YR71G1dioUm8ZgGcx8/?imgmax=800" width="264" height="354"></a></p> <p align="center">…and these beautiful flowers from one of my students made me feel loved as well. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-37022203779182524172015-02-03T20:08:00.001-05:002015-02-03T20:11:40.284-05:00IT’S ALREADY CURRENTLY FEBRUARY<p>…well, it is that time. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhan2N62nuHloEK1kO2SrFHZo2rUvhebwF_Rqyd0befKSCaz9IXoJC3oYXHBhIktwQOVarFx21c62TM5CvQRaKWjAQF0r6yzLR5NkQgipfFbYUVbPsIPL_E7U7iFmb6CV1o2j0Z0npaKjU/s1600-h/February%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="February" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="February" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJooAV-rTUCK025xWvjR8JeUkZmB-2DPnAE0P3skpQA11McdTfbHZPEjtnvFdZ0G9XVqJG0S-nqXOM0pr8ML7RdFA7KGIdFM3Z9fcQ13HGn7fJoHb5vV8vnCq9PPTNX4CADJSLXQ-L3GQ/?imgmax=800" width="596" height="788"></a></p> <p>LISTENING: I enjoy sports way too much. IU is playing Wisconsin, and I am hoping for a small miracle. Go Hoosiers!! <p>LOVING: guys. You need a heated mattress pad. It is my current favorite material possession and it makes winter slightly more bearable. <p>THINKING: Both my fifth and sixth graders took math tests at the end of last week. Despite the extra day that was added to my weekend when we got twelve inches of snow on Sunday, they still have not been graded. …so little motivation… <p>WANTING: I rode on a four wheeler for the first time this weekend. It was exciting and now I want one. <p>NEEDING: …I want nothing more than to visit Ron Clark Academy. I have basically wanted to visit for ever, and then Kim Bearden had to go and write the most inspiring book ever, Crash Course, and then my best teacher friend went to RCA, and now I am just so jealous. It will happen. I will make it happen. …it will. #slidecertifiedplease <p>okay. I am the most indecisive person ever. I just overanalyze everything and make myself miserable whenever I have a decision to make. It is ridiculous, but I can’t help it. <p>I always love linking up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley</a>. …but hopefully I will manage another blog post between now and March… <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-56986817272241237252015-01-01T11:16:00.001-05:002015-01-01T11:21:36.627-05:00IT’S CURRENTLY JANUARY!<p>I think one of my resolutions should be getting back into the habit of blogging. …so what better way to start than linking up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Farley</a> for a little New Year fun.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3V59UqyU3dY5AYc7rEJooDJd7jEPyXeZImTkpWldmk3m-jqP0oL2QA45QIPzPVadOr8sxJFEXNuNPRI59qxpDW2WCTSC172nBRDzbuXuEcjoiztLIC-WWeN-GuSl-GJUnaUZBbTisbyM/s1600-h/Currently.January6.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Currently.January" border="0" alt="Currently.January" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZp4S_tXonniMTkDQCxwAmH8xZdQ2wXvwmI9Z_AOboI3aQnamYkL4Ee9vDaBG8bDksiMMOnLQG1PTCxrZIM3yItrckXPyXyH_n165Dj5Q33mDgNiNlwhUwaYFvVOQYtD2zO0KBaiJtrpw/?imgmax=800" width="596" height="788"></a></p> <p>LISTENING: I tend to be way more productive when there is background noise. Since Spotify starts when my computer does, we are kind of like a little team.</p> <p>LOVING: I’m not necessarily spontaneous, but I couldn’t resist spending New Year’s with a great friend. …and considering I still haven’t finished scrapbooking pictures from college, a New Year’s Day Scrapbooking Marathon will be the perfect way to spend today.</p> <p>THINKING: I am bad at spontaneity because I overthink everything. …although there is a strong possibility I would have done absolutely nothing on my to do list today if I was home, I can’t help but think about the long list of things I should be doing to be ready to head back to school on Monday. blah.</p> <p>WANTING & NEEDING: …I really haven’t done anything that I promised myself I would do, so an extra week of vacation would be excellent. (Last winter that actually happened. Thanks to that not so wonderful Polar Vortex, we had five snow days in a row that resulted in an extra week of break. I didn’t really appreciate the additional hour that got added to our school day for three weeks to make up all the missed school, but I never grumble about a good snow day.)</p> <p>YES, I really do need to make more time for ME; a happier, healthier me this year.</p> <p>MAYBE, I will be able to resist that quick stop at Starbucks on my way to school. …but it is just so tempting. I WISH, I did more traveling. …there are just so many places to go and things to do.</p> <p>Well, Happy New Year! </p> <p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-83538552713368890622014-12-31T16:07:00.001-05:002014-12-31T16:07:11.830-05:00SPRING TEACHER BLOGGER MEET-UPMarch cannot get here soon enough. I am beyond excited for the 2nd Annual Spring Teacher Blogger Meet-Up in French Lick, Indiana!! You don't want to miss it. <br />
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<img alt="SchoolgirlStyle.2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76oCzlBtUW8hKYkZvfhF9SWNEANIAN-I5EoFFzSVM2wJFDzRsK5ZS02C4j3d31TpXDniDrNrVbaPiWBVL6DZDZsAUbX93pM91OuMXbHziNsCp6-uBGzFEKg72Zdi7dUjNdltbYBiTuqU/?imgmax=800" height="238" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="340" /> <br />
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Thanks to a gentle shove from the wonderful Holly Ehle, I had just started blogging when I attended last year's event. ...and by just started, I mean I had a really cute blog design and one post. This meet-up was exactly the inspiration that I needed. ...not just to take blogging to the next level, but to take teaching to the next level. I was rejuvenated and reinspired to attack each day with enthusiasm. <br />
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Don't feel like you have to be a blog expert to attend. OR that you even have to be much of a blog stalker. If you are a teacher and you need something to get you excited about teaching, this is it. …so, visit [<a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/2014/12/spring-teacher-blogger-meet-up-2015.html" target="_blank">Mrs’s Ehle’s Kindergarten Connections</a>] to learn more and sign-up now. <br />
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<div align="center">
<a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/2014/12/spring-teacher-blogger-meet-up-2015.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Mrs. Ehle's Kindergarten Connections" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmjnFjdq2MlIJlpGzlWFOzC9mixY4CTWR_7nP8yvhQq4_TD6IOB1a9w8GYAv345mprOrc0eKt95d7gwmhC7zU6zxKEMEt9Aa1wzBm6WTgbumJ8LmyVFOwkqDyo0_wymrS4TSsBdlUAz0/s1600/Button.png" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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It is just way to enjoyable to browse the many pictures of the lives of others. …so I am linking up with [<a href="http://teacherytidbits.blogspot.com/2014/12/top-10-insta-pics-of-2014.html" target="_blank">Teaching Tidbits</a>] to bring you the top ten pictures of my year on Instagram. </p> <p>(oh, and if you don’t already follow me, click [<a href="http://instagram.com/heatherding/" target="_blank">here</a>] to start.)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://teacherytidbits.blogspot.com/2014/12/top-10-insta-pics-of-2014.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3KGU6Jm8kfTpHotuwvXWOgk0nl5ytZc3JYrI5lmRsRbuwqOdhaQB2a1Jh3YA30I97_vJvkr74911CFdIjAWamm8lQZ6Mj9U2kw19uQRRqgBN88gokxXZuIAjzFvREP-lep0-LHgFWL5c/s1600/top+10+insta+pics+button.png" width="420" height="480"></a></p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7Eq6nU1Y6tFzl4d3juDGMensImmdMHk6m_dHfYjx4lyYxAK50UqQP0nxr2W8VuHWMdnXaF_di2xaNflZs_WVWbsN_PLvZ8sYEmA2w_naXY0cSCFIbKRzIQYG4vbvaIcTq7gifQG-yjw/s1600/insta+10.png" width="175" height="143"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikOT5pqRVkxflevu4qJ_LW3L-VBHHUQjId5DBjDTC5hyphenhyphen9h1MmOGSd-aTb8zjJmLj1kgthbP6NPP3Ju0LEGJCzaZJjPY1Xu9XZRTnSsTZer-b0IED0OF7O3v1oevOxpvasJOA42-CNA23Y/s1600-h/image%25255B63%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyAw06NdhJ27PiRTc-VKhIekLT0xaSSTnYVRNSKBtDXcGfIa36J8aOWbstGjkcFVZpdNhjRMvzoxMjKzglC426377xnvQqvOTl6J2C-4I4qeZHuemlnKJutZ8N-Zpsf4zFaVt9_aN2dE/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="338"></a></p> <p align="center">the family @ Sacket’s Harbor</p> <p align="center">This past summer we made our way to upper state New York for a vacation that there is a good chance only we could enjoy. We spent the weekend along the St. Lawrence Seaway enjoying the Antique Boat Museum, Antique Boat America, Boldt Castle, The Boldt Yacht House, Alexandria Bay, Sacket's Harbor. ...basically, heaven.</p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7CKGsXp3Sgpe3jcbyWpbPPKB3F_dLGGQ1XO1Nnwy5TWhybKJrXr5LjQnicdEaMBkPnxEZZS2TXau-S8TQazhbZGMc62BLFZ9To1vnFSIW1mILHEllH_KT0UbvuCwErzfFe2mRrVCdsA/s1600/insta+9.png" width="175" height="143"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ85qymA5tWLyytMAFSvn8e47IKSWeCRI9K6lkfl6lk9Dh3_pMco_9xfhu4B2rDD89qndoFLaIRZ0s_2wYMy1tLNfeELCI3W-eVYMOjIAZcDfLFY1ANrq-XatlvpP_widb9589Y_yqwVo/s1600-h/image%25255B64%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirn8cJsBv4pOnINO4AT7P_ZtX1jnNre2ZsE99cmk-OaolVHyokIHdbDuF6I6al64ahbfnaJo4AY3N4BuTR26V48t4JUANp_HImC5MNUYqE0ArTKpcYUDHiP58zryLVHZywJ56x5t_dgGA/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="341"></a></p> <p align="center">life is better at the lake. #lakehairdontcare.</p> <p align="center">There is nothing better than a day at the lake, on the boat, with my book in the sunshine.</p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkk-ILJNb8r_dY-TqxoHaHAYMSaJ71To0Of1O-Nby9xBfaUacyjq7Bu0j3sWf0YXwZlIRcztyIrVCYXBp5aNCSGfSzTqJbBs9AtWpRecA9OIEZRO9k_qwgAbMVeP1mtw5SokKVlfrXiGA/s1600/insta+8.png" width="175" height="143"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu-eYESZgTZQP6s-kkAOwAIBVYfrCQfnirXJkEKdUKxMRvnDe32A6C3oXWvxJJ2FdDBcyiRc-nW1ZYO01YmQY8upcI1lkm6-51c-PgbORwTcBb0YTi_eb54I0E1uVa5g5gX5Q7PY2Fg7U/s1600-h/image%25255B65%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKU26VuMEAXj9pTE8-j_SlA8-fHX1l7nEnwiAChlYyewbVC_X4tlPjwc2CyXxMC49SATGHe8XL03GffgTzgnTSftIer9Fmifpi578Az2YOOWY8X7HRHqIyQEdEJG3MfC3QKqysw7r-miA/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="340"></a></p> <p align="center">Here is another one from our trip to New York. We took a slight detour on our way to Clayton to stop at Niagara Falls. I love that you can hear them before you see them.</p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd52VJBGdhpXqLa4BEIksJv_ocb9cQoVxD5OKy7Y-pDlPzseIh6_e-iUbWCdEiW3853uFx4rpMyryjV8UDhPQPKuYRg2WBhEN2Lt2WKE5dfR9xKpzSnF_yMiCQ0YMMXo9Lo7l_-SGdw1A/s1600/insta+7.png" width="175" height="143"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8mtpQ289P875dKVa5DZr7KuQAxuX4IZnKJqvAzjpq_Gjn9koj0APPF_l_hfKhClJ4Eiov9UdTQdSMPpFy5Gc_ALOFrzhE84xa_-0LgstyFX5JIi2J5jLOOZxqFFYLdhZ-Rlgz8-HXz2M/s1600-h/image%25255B66%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6Ssy7IuA5c8fhetqvYMnJUO3zKgOKiZgssjhYkX0Xykx4mdsZCDaJgMHTnGsmxCyehvsp6aoio-cmlwiFmw-RLwjYOP2-MH86Zi5mBaFRuatRRvKg3qJB2OgTY12M51TeX9GgfEDVV4/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="339"></a></p> <p align="center">yep.</p> <p align="center">Reading is my favorite. I don’t always make time for reading during the school year, but I typically make up for that lost time on breaks and over the summer. Hello, Harry Potter. </p> <p align="center"> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnIbDCBI0SWZVb1KyrhqysmmT_uXpnDOHjqOcHnDy-Lxkibl6yOzC9-JCgvhWwxvz5S6TwuAnB8F-6IAWJSp2Grl02giE7tqtCzSnWW4gKKHa5u5PJ9y4fEcQXGWI8Z5bEWjsGz5NTRM/s1600/insta+6.png" width="175" height="143"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZBxiwIiKRKBB5JcPO6LQhS7ReScTp4nQ1WdTBqJ_WhWl7pOKJCBS7Ugc6ZQDckhGKa-FQE4MMryxLdjIeZeNGQlyWxBnz4AHozex8zzZilNQiXkzWJDhpUCxOPkFjIN8dOnBYwPGp9CE/s1600-h/image%25255B67%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8XtuMNNQI2DPP3OLMy2RctVMlC1xxQGqysOTeEii26eSBGFpitWV9lhLZFjywMpmic3aqMnnKgzOCgnw75YReBRAXiNBIYR67PSi1ZNn3EsSwG-cF0AvUJpdErRtJzUslixMLQQ2_Ww/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="343"></a></p> <p align="center">rake and run with la familia.</p> <p align="center">In addition to teaching, I am also the Youth Director at my church. #lovemyhighschoolyouthgroup. This fall we wandered the neighborhood near our church raking leaves as a way of sharing God’s LOVE through our actions. …don’t worry, we raked after we threw them in the air.</p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydTxEhQtWkOmEq-8tlil8HQvkuN1Yh3NSDot4GBT2BbXFqWF7k2AAHyKqweIwuTnQYzOCJyD43rTOxxbRUK-pEb_DygOwXAE41d_opqkKvlnhOAssKgH4EIiLH6lA1X9sSV4O-T7yD_U/s1600/insta+5.png" width="175" height="143"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoABFFVxTFwkkM24QzgrCf2jALfjrLo4i0IxgoVd62lf-ODAFGVQrusGedDzo6d_Bkizge6t0HbzQZT70jn1-WXdp59_OT0jOPigW4pC3LNqAkUIt4bi0JaHKby0jyGTVT9M1dgFpgUvI/s1600-h/image%25255B68%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8hYaQqolz5Q-abU8uj1BOQtJFeOifLVXDKKNugTdmRhUoIJJOGHfRPiOxoQOk0kzSCGnPtfHKwQBjWEWLtV51GPYOxdG6eDYyZPi7daopW5JJTyXegK7W_jcBE7fyVqA7PNqbeFTIk4/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="340"></a></p> <p align="center">My first group of LOVELY 6th graders are all grown up and off to high school. oh, so proud of this incredible group. I love you guys!</p> <p align="center">…the caption is fairly self-explanatory… </p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvQ8mAyi5CnVLodPqEUTgspTPhZ3VSfo3yChinxwlDgYFsbz5XUQjCt5k29LD70zql8GhZahrH5uoBWoK2_doo2rozOG6PQTaitQLvwB66p4C2AdODDXnEhm_SJBdgbUEk2d6l98npLE/s1600/insta+4.png" width="175" height="141"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkK_BsOeRR0PbmS739ECv1JFcWgP_CLH8aL6v0MsHu6GwSnX5iIaQRUI3N5pdUaDgVthrnXC2NJlg2LigSf5LuojXAlVd-pwjBw73o_w9J4a9HdDzECK1cUReva3Bsxra6kkREFlxTBU/s1600-h/image%25255B69%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPH9M2s0-nYRoN7l1-FxB48qHHq7cm3oH5TwR3H147RS2OVG3cC81uK7K6M7-P1rJXGtcU6fw_fkM138jLWEHg4bj2A1Ug7MqRPjGWB1ajj2jheuVeM1HzviLNDwMpl08soW94k-hpVo/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="341"></a></p> <p align="center">nerd day. I’m a natural.</p> <p align="center">I am so blessed to teach at a Lutheran school where I am able to live God’s LOVE and share it with my students. My favorite week of the school year is National Lutheran Schools Week. It is full of spirit days and fun ways of celebrating the blessings of His LOVE and Lutheran schools.</p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLY6BCbvt9nXkknyDfiLqRWlX3B_5HEje0DGk1GdLTc5drzHcKJ1fbr1pim68Z2lY6-nodhdH-MRrR8WXT0L2xlgJIAFJPNe_EdQ9dAZ6umk963-7X4_RrX9_BZL12_holD4ziRAi5X20/s1600/insta+3.png" width="175" height="141"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoMT1W1R-JHDJGiCxk6H0-sh4pYXObFxKoZanmwGem5JVITzAOm96roF9Zos1W-2YJqy2nC416F044kkB496zwHJMfjaXJvDLP8R6GyMjhF6GBBJyA90ionedYtVeWnpQpAhuTE2N3zg/s1600-h/image%25255B70%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJqw5Wb35Tgz9G33Py1l7uyOOFjCdU9YEgX-jeqoCCpxjRraNv05LlcBjVkaWGZega_SZJ2L1o_ZW58-qNmk01EBuijQ-7HQYjQORfDygJ-7_PwDAZsm0vy50xZjWgnq5PEltSIVwL24/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="339"></a></p> <p align="center">I am so proud of my la familia. #nogreaterlove. #costaricamission. #forcedit.</p> <p align="center">…if I start talking about this trip, I won’t be able to stop. Read all about it [<a href="http://absolutelynogreaterlove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a>]. </p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO42fZqbpJDysPBarLPksRr1WMwb1jE0p0Qyt3gYV7QivpuzCVfEXPfFDV81gUWP2YFiFpDTfo1gcBW4pRrQIqttrFM-ejaYYVKdIprLilXJ1Jqkv4WcziPplqj3QdzPc6hjD6yEiWZvE/s1600/insta+2.png" width="175" height="141"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85G2FJpqhEbsj66PMCsI4M7ukC9yNeugNcVgXuGQ3JBuGbmqbFtzRq7uTDh2swFLuB0_tuffNnycGozPGzZmSSYOl1kOTshUqfF7SjfZUiNN5ii6fcc5vgjTCcvV1pU2K2C2qe0xttso/s1600-h/image%25255B71%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP79sFAmOnSpdsChQhi1coo5RPL34y4NY38cmfM6qn8nfxOnXSMVBn39cDpo7gmd4J225mQFXOhf1KVcfqE8won8aEj7N7-EVH0cPBHPgLGDbizcSQTgbUlk7Tq_vXmLEYp4JaxjZrkwc/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="343"></a></p> <p align="center">aunt Heather and Henry bonding time. …those lips…</p> <p align="center">My best friend had this cute thang in October. It was probably one of the most traumatizing days of my life. Both momma and baby are now fine and healthy, but complications during a c-section put my best friend in the ICU on a ventilator. I feel extremely blessed to have both of them in my life. …and clearly he loves me.</p> <p align="center">...and…</p> <p align="center"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_KbuL8amNUENUcpNQG0LRXTlr37ZLWSCatMeo-SeWylofbPlnQC5NUGLvH4jytBbflK5-84_LPhT8rUsKsn28eYlLDYeHMQrdbja_hCUP5qKkRP_XqZji8ge1VrCCaj0WlSPkBBUKWE/s1600/insta+1.png" width="175" height="141"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjtZb9Zbpbt6AJfjyanLVeJ16_pLxly36V63asULLO1Zu4BzsxVIJzshAf12u7XB-o5lE6LX9XSAay_cKt1yAeAnWnbsLJk6DFSD7bwpo7SDTH4ZKmXA1lQJx1KPGDcxFtpIncicqx1Y/s1600-h/image%25255B72%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSJ7u0MnSdXAZHd6KeBEAr-kUQS7pRPSAhykqrsA5MqMqAA3MZ9CsBA8ydxNQQFnVs55jn0FtqzQ5AciNSCO7G1g-3OiCM8fU-0vXvcO0gzTz6E3IGSIkW04jsGDmZHDfE8XkSR9Irxk/?imgmax=800" width="340" height="339"></a></p> <p align="center">I just couldn’t stay away…</p> <p align="center">I guess when you hold a small child people are more likely to like your photo. </p> <p align="left">There they are. The top ten pictures of my year according to Instagram. Looking back on this past year has reminded me how truly blessed I am. I have a loving family that supports me in all that I do, fantastic friends, my dream job, AND I can’t wait to see what this next year will bring.</p> <p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-24505295412680926862014-11-26T22:51:00.001-05:002014-11-26T22:57:54.587-05:00TIME FLIES…<p>How? How is it almost December?!? We are already passing out midterm reports for the second quarter of the school year and my last blog post was my classroom reveal. This is not okay. <p>I kind of don't even know where to begin... <p>While I feel like I am in constant need of a nap, my year is off to a fantastic start. Here are just a few things that have brought a smile to my face recently. <p>First, I love my students. Each year, as June approaches, I can't help but start to pay more attention to the fifth graders down the hall. ...and if I am being honest, last year there was a whole lot of anxiety as I thought about what the future school year would bring. Although I call them my little hurricanes, and while they are the noisiest silent class I have ever met, they always manage to brighten my day. <p>oh, Origami. On Wednesdays and Fridays, the middle school students at my school participate in an elective program. This semester I decided to teach origami, and I was shocked to learn how many students had no idea how to make a paper airplane. We promptly resolved that small crisis and recently had the First (Possibly) Annual Paper Airplane Launch where prizes were awarded for the Farthest Flight and the Most Unique Design. <p>I have decided to experiment with Interactive Math Notebooks this year. I am still sticking with the [<a href="http://smackdabinthemiddleschool.blogspot.com/2014/04/fantastic-math-cheat-sheet-organizers.html" target="_blank">Fantastic Math Cheat Sheet Organizer</a>] for my 7th grade students, but I decided to attempt notebooks with my 5th and 6th graders. It is definitely an experiment, and I already have a growing list of things I want to do differently next year, but, live and learn. If you have suggestions or resources, I will take 'em. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbsnV2Z25vRvS7j1_tSMPg-dw_CJG6V6ASUOMA6a-q162FYqP_apsZladYi1R_fc5sXs8b4L5op2LJqxllSx45lFA4-L7d9M1EQT1fM7x0krVtBcjfnlvtMLnM_KcdK4IecKdIW887SY/s1600-h/MathNotebook%25255B7%25255D.png"><img title="MathNotebook" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="MathNotebook" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCl0y4V7cJesiRs08J-Xqkjj7BsHch1ghARBVb-aTdDOgCZZUpeXiOQGtkaQ5JFGPMzQj8v2Aate0i7s18eyfaoi9dmsPGgeEw3lYuCCIjK8Ab6Ak_mBMSwMxcAQ4jxA7J9PZ6K2Z3IxA/?imgmax=800" width="260" height="340"></a> <p>I have prep time!! Yep, for the first time in my teaching career, I have more than forty-five minutes a week to plan at school. Thanks to our fantastic, new gym teacher, I have THREE forty-five minute plan periods a week. ...it may not seem like much to some of you, but, oh my goodness, it is wonderful. <p>…and as of 3:35 p.m. today, I have a four-day weekend to enjoy. Hello, naps! <p align="center"><font size="5">"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever."</font> </p> <p align="center"><img style="float: left; display: inline" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" align="left"></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-89630888636192432272014-08-12T21:44:00.001-04:002014-08-12T21:50:38.993-04:00MY CLASSROOM REVEAL<p>Well, school starts tomorrow. Yep, TOMORROW! </p> <p>It has been a bit of a crazy summer... After a few too many sixteen-hour-days at school, my classroom is looking fabulous and I am oh, so ready for my lovely 6th graders to walk into my classroom in the morning. </p> <p>Here are a few of my favorite spaces. [Let’s be real, many of us spend more time in our classrooms than we do at home, so it is important to love it.]</p> <p align="center"><font size="5">Classroom Library</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SRd5EZ_ZJKN6A4COJBK8zrAd7h7xkCAPx-uiol3-mAwyQCj-eYHlg0h5TpG3jMNEaDFlRF56y6-Cx_ostlLT1N9i7_FTCpxO7xt-HxVXL2nFg-NHRq336osUfsQrtKjc4ioVyVaLAzE/s1600-h/ClassroomReveal.1%25255B6%25255D.png"><img title="ClassroomReveal.1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="ClassroomReveal.1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NazWzxNQQFW6o4g7psnQ_IAxFVmgfHmzfzyssV_KZctkwr9zE5kGd9Vx1Tlp0F1phjpzfpmHZnwuudWYnkr0cmPiHeqbsdj_BVrpKTJkW9xuFl6J85SdzXO20D_RxEgCmXWpjYruW0U/?imgmax=800" width="315" height="400"></a></p> <p>When I first started teaching, I had a huge classroom library. …seriously, huge. I really liked having such a large variety of books accessible to my students, but it was hard to manage and it took up entirely too much space. Luckily, my school has a fairly awesome library, so a few years ago I decided it was time to downsize. BAM. My Gutter Book Case. I love that this solved my space issue, and that the book covers are visible. I rotate in new books each quarter and use Book Retriever to keep track of when books are checked in and out. </p> <p align="center"><font size="5">Star Students & the Homework Board</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6h-WsIPQOGBrroaCFozuwSbqxXHan-szGqaXTi6Rae6_e6zzt4wezamBFF8CRbFP9U3K0CUJkU6jgtuEjLRMXnvogXkKLcYGfsFaLHzf7VP_v7JXtszXCYHBEx4sqbRHO3aVbeDdhi4/s1600-h/ClassroomReveal.5%25255B5%25255D.png"><img title="ClassroomReveal.5" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="ClassroomReveal.5" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3yCWg4Cy1pC_qGPKbZfrgz6WEUvo_jenCvrkCF5ynRrm4mx2UfkbZ-GN5VdJS8PcGJnY-XvNcGKxUlaLVrp7c25GBjgICuZ5u9-rerRuAMDyXtuTT3iOgdHHvpDNOpddcT1c_p7GHKQ/?imgmax=800" width="272" height="340"></a></p> <p>I love to display student work. The smile on their faces, even as big, bad 6th graders, when a piece of their work is put on the Star Student Board is so worth it. …I keep it simple. I know some of you have some super creative ways of displaying students’ work, but I just staple it up and switch things out when more space is needed. </p> <p>oh, and my classroom calendar is a wipe-off! My students LOVE writing all of the different events that are important to them up on our shared classroom calendar. …and it makes it was easier for me to know when I should show up to a sporting event. We always start the year with a little chat about respecting each others additions to the calendar and it never seems to be a problem. …there was one year where they started a Happy Hug Day each Friday…</p> <p align="center"><font size="5">Math Corner</font></p> <p>I LOVE math. It is definitely MY favorite subject. This corner is dedicated to math; white boards, markers, erasers, rulers, and math sheets. …and a lot of colorful posters that are constantly changing and used as references while we tackle different concepts. [Be sure to check back for more information about my student erasers and math sheets. They saved my life!]</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaJOvnTX1OTRGTTzo9uHFSamxWxd8WkO518aPLkbt4_g0955_c_qx9uGEXrLBZzn03FoopnWhmAIi3yoX4HLKJepZldpvWaDJ9uGfqFivjjLqKWmAMfASN7j8_ZBJtZ3wJa8Mkkx2jIXs/s1600-h/ClassroomReveal.2%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="ClassroomReveal.2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="ClassroomReveal.2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij764yX7nyQgsV8vg286UyD_pl-gZS1hDacjTwfOyF91wQHjnSgZGmdyNYi_esAMqWOpTyLMLcl4u5I5COLIpVjrlrfBKpei1oBLEMYKjxPoIvJLONtudGLYAocDAwhWjLjTrthtwQqtQ/?imgmax=800" width="303" height="400"></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="5">Homework Center</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4TggyNN7KF-bqkHmek1-xh1A1zVZwG9k7scMhU86UdJTud6MCbuUVEFFlpNVAzbGTtC3yMp0HGRmb0JBbxOqRR2zxS4-Pkh440VsD1PxSQisl6E7zv9PYmUYpZJU1z62Bj2LY7GDfIc/s1600-h/ClassroomReveal.4%25255B8%25255D.png"><img title="ClassroomReveal.4" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="ClassroomReveal.4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEr9HYHU64J1cwm7YXs_PQs7jRFLOjp2Y_2W8WTWNgmZh6C9i2Mmd6NAeWs4M3EiKgPRVBTw5_u_s3IXoCBUESahpDQ1KsP3fMvLWwc2VTDmKV3dZ3MPqeWjNkIz9ygTwpnyxk4L8JRqg/?imgmax=800" width="300" height="471"></a></p> <p>oh my goodness. I keep everything in this corner. First, this is where my homeroom students turn in their homework each morning. Although I teach at a school that has a departmentalized middle school, I still have the 6th grade students for a variety of subjects each day. I like collecting all of the homework they owe me first thing in the morning. Students can also find the weekly Task Slip, our Devotion Schedule, a Class Schedule, and the all important Lunch Menu. </p> <p>I also keep quite a few things that are useful to me. On that pull-out tray I have containers with craft sticks with each student’s name, my timer, and a stapler. I also keep each grades’ nametags easily accessible for changing seating arrangements. </p> <p>and finally…</p> <p align="center"><font size="5">My Desk</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdzFFLW93AFfRo_w95dK7vHqjyV0LemQYeevlZ6OdjHS3lD4dXuW9YbJHoBOKpL2Idtt9fPfs1PxYuYmall05E95dnHEQ4hsezplmsfZ0mGc-0ccjI9jUmuAHFYUAY2KnuSp25d5ublg/s1600-h/ClassroomReveal.6%25255B5%25255D.png"><img title="ClassroomReveal.6" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="ClassroomReveal.6" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpuNZ9X407Ggvr7lq9yGU901x2BobdYqxwWdUFH7FzZnSGEWL2IQAkxpmgkjEtIGE7OPuKsIerGyhD4RcvMRnfI4rZdyfIgQVRt5BPSani1fxNqmftMYT5rfLSvuoaM6DMPdgOVvlE7rk/?imgmax=800" width="305" height="400"></a></p> <p>Although I rarely sit down, when I do, my desk has to be functional. [<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spectacular-Substitute-Binder-1232000" target="_blank">My Spectacular Substitute Binder</a>] is always ready in the tray behind my computer, I have my desktop calendar ready to organize all of my meetings, and my paperclips are patiently waiting to meet my every need. </p> <p>…I am sure it will take all of three minutes tomorrow morning for my classroom to look more like an explosion than anything else, but I can’t wait. : ]</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a>/</p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-37139644561572388742014-08-07T22:19:00.003-04:002014-08-07T22:20:52.835-04:00THE PIRATE'S LIFE FOR ME<span style="font-family: inherit;">okay. I am getting a little jealous of all these pictures everyone is taking with THE pirate himself, Dave Burgess. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I didn't attend one of his seminars this summer, but I did just finish reading his book, [<a href="http://daveburgess.com/" target="_blank">Teach Like a Pirate: Increase Student Engagement, Boost Your Creativity, and Transform Your Life as an Educator</a>] and I cannot wait to pirate it up this school year. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWazlbyh85N5dyPwXS2AK4F49VFfs8zHWJA6qH4J3feHfoelmFiyltqt7HW0Mva3h7RUs2Xttq7yeUTSLSbN2YcXZzx1pVo6LBnCgllze59pHvztc1Mkd9lN_xmrOv7PTI-GL5VYkCS1I/s1600/TeachLikeaPirate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWazlbyh85N5dyPwXS2AK4F49VFfs8zHWJA6qH4J3feHfoelmFiyltqt7HW0Mva3h7RUs2Xttq7yeUTSLSbN2YcXZzx1pVo6LBnCgllze59pHvztc1Mkd9lN_xmrOv7PTI-GL5VYkCS1I/s1600/TeachLikeaPirate.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"It doesn't matter how much material you teach, it only matters how much is received."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My copy is now littered with notes, highlighted text, and hook ideas that are applicable to what I teach. This book doesn't just tell you "what" other teachers do, it explains "how" you can make it work in your class, with your curriculum, all by asking the right questions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Read it, figure out exactly what PIRATE, stands for, and WANT to be GREAT. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"To ascend to the level of greatness, you have to be on fire with passion and enthusiasm."</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">[no, I was not asked to write a review; these are just my fabulous opinions. You're welcome.]<br /></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" /></span></a></div>
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Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-74350168640557514032014-08-05T14:16:00.001-04:002014-08-06T13:13:07.572-04:00WORDLESS WEDNESDAY: BACK-TO-SCHOOL<p>I am once again linking up with Miss DeCarbo @ <a href="http://secondgradesugarandspice.blogspot.com">Sugar and Spice</a> for another Wordless Wednesday. "In the world of teaching, a picture can say it all!"</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjblSrylDaXtWWYalUyqFe9bjRmplgaK_2KRJPx0bPIYJa22BxCMBTMSsxZz9je6HB5p0koV2_a-33zyERWw00YfIeKw49Tll7xM4XqZKa_c2CNA-ge4Rk8C35WvmwJwkT7HMZ17TqpQ/s1600-h/WordlessWednesdayLinkyPic%25255B5%25255D.png"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="WordlessWednesdayLinkyPic" border="0" alt="WordlessWednesdayLinkyPic" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKXP_Su0b9D1VrM_jAFXlqSdxTU5wWkz4OxQrlYFJSiLrXbKmvJynjxUI34Na86DyUwpx_L1_4CrvP-t13JIXs5yCtFO8g2jlBBQGd7cYCO99Eh8YjHsobniy4nbd70qa7gz7spMZYO9M/?imgmax=800" width="502" height="327"></a></p> <p>I am back at it. On Monday, teachers reported for Back-To-School meetings. After a long day of working in the classroom, [<a href="http://mrsehleskindergartenconnections.blogspot.com/">Mrs. Ehle</a>] and I decided it was necessary to spice up the workroom with a bulletin board makeover!! …just a little way to spread some positive energy as we head back to school. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR7Uv5kamplzUzNzMeBXkVn6IphC2oPp1ME8Yz_J7CjD6on6WvUF4xCuzo1KqFB7rfRwo1By08oeY2P81g0DIZOVJJka5rPU0ZYN8VFoGwa_rH_TxxXNCaYwqXkSnBjudRx3PsrOh3TG8/s1600-h/TIC%25255B5%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="TIC" border="0" alt="TIC" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOKFnpox6YIxgyA6cOmbjt-wa0EHdEGpumqmaD88bn7W8uquxCCvamHNE4sTnUmFa9EHYuOo4Z8oFgUkFzQ0H4VmUVY9_urHcYwmUjiV1bN1yJo-dOzRgDpWAYT9sX-kexh0FHz66PMpk/?imgmax=800" width="350" height="300"></a> <p>AND, you have to love how adorable this board looks thanks to all of the fabulous products CTP has to offer. Be sure to check out some of their new, trendy products [<a href="http://www.creativeteaching.com/">here</a>]. <p> <p>What do you do to improve the mood and spread positivity around your school building?! <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-25268423445470925892014-08-05T13:42:00.001-04:002014-08-05T13:44:45.046-04:00LET’S CELEBRATE<p>I'm not exactly sure when it happened, but I have reached so many milestones this summer!! <p>I now have over one hundred-fifty Facebook fans, over one hundred followers on Bloglovin, more than fifty Blogger followers, and I am on my way to one hundred follwers on TpT. [SMALL VICTORIES!!] <p>I started blogging in March, because I love being surrounded by inspiring, passionate teachers. This journey has been so fulfilling and a huge source of encouragement, motivation, and positivity; in one word, I am feeling BLESSED. Thank you!! <p>...so LET's CELEBRATE. Not only is [<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Heather-Volmerding" target="_blank">my entire TpT store</a>] on sale for the Back to School Blast Off Sale... <p>I also have this fabulous [<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Partner-List-Printable-1374525" target="_blank">FREEBIE</a>] for you!! <p><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Partner-List-Printable-1374525"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Partner List" border="0" alt="Partner List" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjog_j-g3Tt4zQ78NlesOtS610tcwMfV8gtWUs7ooyYxvWIy6I9R9j9VAtWGB62VWqcyDmxDTMVKzyjEX-zZBMkmi-z0EjELR4FdGczxJK0ePpa6B54XIA3j0cunITHxUdvUqUHAoA7_94/?imgmax=800" width="357" height="280"></a> <p>Partner Lists are amazing!! They make it so much easier to assign partners throughout the school year AND, getting your Partner Lists set up is a great way to get students up, moving, interacting, and having fun during those first days of school. Check back soon for more information about the many ways I use my Partner Lists in my classroom.</p> <p>oh, and my celebration wouldn’t be complete without a blog makeover. Megan @ [<a href="http://www.abirdinhanddesigns.com/">A Bird in Hand Designs</a>] in AMAZING!! </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png"></a></p> <br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iDHQnrffJDs%2FUxCkSQZ6kiI%2FAAAAAAAAADw%2FEcxvB_0JG1c%2Fs1600%2FSignature.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-12922831979100701422014-07-16T00:00:00.000-04:002014-07-16T00:00:01.702-04:00CHRISTMAS IN JULY $1.00 SALEDid I just hear the words POLAR VORTEX to describe these crazy, cool summer temperatures in Indiana??! The weather forecast for this week seems to fit… It’s an Indiana Blogger’s Christmas in July $1.00 Sale!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUppF62dNl_A_1G8V1m88_kkEBzNIo7j0EZAgCroAjxf2SJRlscFeiBbPi_0J3lSdDuKYZiCFqO6oIagmlvq9h8v5SJAyPbgAFD8sGnUMJn8ojAJX30eXF-eAxaH6UlSsxR4qchn7GQhI/s1600/Christmas+in+July.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUppF62dNl_A_1G8V1m88_kkEBzNIo7j0EZAgCroAjxf2SJRlscFeiBbPi_0J3lSdDuKYZiCFqO6oIagmlvq9h8v5SJAyPbgAFD8sGnUMJn8ojAJX30eXF-eAxaH6UlSsxR4qchn7GQhI/s1600/Christmas+in+July.jpg" height="281" width="400" /></a></div>
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TODAY and TOMORROW we will be offering all of the fabulous products listed below for ONE DOLLAR. On Friday morning, all of the products will go back to their regular price, so grab them while you can!<br />
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I have TWO of my favorite products listed for only $1.00 AND my [<a href="http://smackdabinthemiddleschool.blogspot.com/2014/07/standards-stress-relief.html" target="_blank">Indiana Academic Standards Checklists</a>] on sale!!<br />
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Check out my previous posts on [<a href="http://smackdabinthemiddleschool.blogspot.com/2014/05/hop-to-more-organized-classroom.html">My Spectacular Substitute Binder</a>] to learn more about the binder that saved my life this past school year. …as much as we don’t want to think about it, we will be back-to-school before we know it. Get your Spectacular Substitute Binder ready NOW, so that you don’t have to panic when your fabulous kiddos sneeze on your favorite pen.<br />
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You can also grab my Skittles Probability Study. It is new to my store and one of my favorite probability lessons. This Skittles Study can be a tasty way to introduce the difference between theoretical and experimental probability, OR the perfect quick review. …and let’s be real, YUM!<br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Heather-Volmerding" target="_blank"><img alt="Slide5" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtItSbUD12xZnSnQQC0qVCFnuS6ybscCa-iIM10lEEUIVq_6qhHji2gpWD5EsejUIG-03uTS6Qt9b160zNjYOvNiXq23n_2KGjH5E9eLSSXFZNfyafqd9rcwligTe0rcYPSpnm_BWV8Ek/?imgmax=800" height="175" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Slide5" width="190" /></a> <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Skittles-Probability-Study-1326669" target="_blank"><img alt="skittles probability" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOGVllHfM5RBe7YQzJAKh0TUqGuYcGzgeVgy2uZH7_0Enag-v1Gwz6ZuI-xXpBY4rbTCvHsuyYUnpHNX-F1tykhCA4tDedFly6ATrtPU85T8cz9_nMHG0_Biq_jXowHo612vuwgJjC6Aw/?imgmax=800" height="175" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="skittles probability" width="193" /></a> <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spectacular-Substitute-Binder-1232000" target="_blank"><img alt="Sub. Binder Product Image" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NZrHusK3OZuLuns2TAZJfQ0skh7w1pjpXjq8_9ZJ9lqFY4HQZS0nQzcic37IrPLpXsAf0sied3PGHljkUxzwunXXz5LQ4y7yxHz0-zxz0Fsd3iLHfKCHNXJ3Oydn3NElFofRn3RO-fc/?imgmax=800" height="175" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Sub. Binder Product Image" width="182" /></a><br />
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Start browsing below and take advantage of these fantastic deals!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" /></a></div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-85962492774993224312014-07-02T20:59:00.001-04:002014-07-02T21:03:26.363-04:00IT’S CURRENTLY JULY!July??! Already!?! How did this happen?<br />
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…at least I managed to remember to link up with <a href="http://ohboy3rdgrade.blogspot.com/2014/06/july-currently.html" target="_blank">Farley</a> this month!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-jzBI7hrkofhe-4wRs8f59e_FmGAnAAUuRRNO-RJqW4g4bomdvR_ilf73aThnWQE6-8jbT8jcT3X_Seot6Wc5rs0TEPAqLDFakH67kkns-fKOQMU7pL4AkcXCMbhn1YjcCAwqUYupZHk/s1600-h/July%252520Currently%25255B10%25255D.png"><img alt="July Currently" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8gNxeZsvO-ksiCekuGimRswNPed_aWoZGOhPOYAW_pcvq3A59VDczBCuvyCRh7GIWLZPS5xIufvClcZIo4VOeJRLzZVgxbqTj8U6DZ9PSAeDTJbb_vjt1drF6r3UivrHTGxw0tAz5C4/?imgmax=800" height="500" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="July Currently" width="375" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><br /></u></span>Although it is hard to believe it is already July, I am LOVING summer. I have been spending much of my time, reading, relaxing, enjoying friends and family. …and I have actually been pretty productive.<br />
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Tomorrow I am off to Wisconsin where I will meet up with one of my best friends before continuing on to Minnesota for another friend’s wedding. I can’t wait!! It is going to be one excellent college reunion. AND, I will get to see my mentor teacher from my first teaching placement. #bestweekendever. <br />
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…then I will be directing 100% of my energy toward the Costa Rica Mission Trip I am planning for later in July. Busy, busy, busy! <br />
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If anyone wants to help with my To Do List, let me know!! : ]<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" /></a>Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-17020580750309026922014-07-01T00:37:00.001-04:002014-07-04T11:21:16.883-04:00STANDARDS STRESS RELIEF<p>okay. I am going to put it out there. STANDARDS STRESS ME OUT. ...maybe that isn't totally accurate. It isn't teaching the standards that stresses me out, it is the documenting that I always tend to ignore and then just skip. </p><p>As an Indiana Teacher, we are ditching Common Core next year and using the Indiana College and Career Ready Academic Standards. (...that are really quite similar to Common Core, but okay.) ...I will also be spending a lot of my time curriculum mapping during the upcoming school year... </p><p>...so I am renewing my efforts to pay attention to the standards and document when I teach them. </p><p align="center">My Indiana Academic Standards Binder </p><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AEheeXxP_0ZapQcH9mpL7J3hudtUK2fXyJ4FI3vvwJBh9bqak2sNV4SGljqvVjklBAZlGHSXRWzTz786prUO4H5k5UmGaMsWHVGslrRVjhb3JnBdILCZ-EHBNPJkwOk7sA3SKAUPL-o/s1600-h/INStandardsBinder.1%25255B5%25255D.png"><img title="INStandardsBinder.1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="INStandardsBinder.1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZNJpn2rNS3RlWY_C6ZKZtyBpV-SaQb4RlYa-fH2mLBD1-eqJGMiuPurC8uL7TTApSU63oaTCbWpEfrhq6tE65y83TtN8zHhHgIwj2WnmGraRfYa7ZN1pRFX7e6tSSNVhgjmtVp6Vfqk/?imgmax=800" width="334" height="380"></a> </p><p>I spent quite a bit of time last week organizing the standards into a table that will allow me to note when I teach each standard, when I assess each standard, and record any notes. I am going to pair my checklists with the Common Core Pacing Guides since they are not yet available with Indiana's new standards. ...fingers crossed. I am really hoping this is a step in the right direction. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUlyLj9Xpsx2PBLOBLxIEU8LHTsakhdcw1Rnz22rwZDOu7uZybDmly3iBXMHi4YVMgMEs6O93hODauEuk0l8p0P0LgJscyAzHj5fj9wiDhIbTiJu_ZdL3xA_QQDS5AmwRVh4qmpT9zYo/s1600-h/INStandardsBinder.2%25255B6%25255D.png"><img title="INStandardsBinder.2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="INStandardsBinder.2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQolH2zbhx5M7VnzLJ2qHOEHiVfeG3XqKzsNEiSje9X5f8HKG_ZOtiv10WJb8PwHcwQg6qPUNlCdgd19_s9cQyp3jE3q6vfldQPkVLLQGeb1kWjuQ5MPTsx3MvOK3pqQSBtKolCJYtus/?imgmax=800" width="334" height="366"></a> </p><p>Indiana Teachers, I have made these fantastic checklists for all grade levels and you can find them [<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Heather-Volmerding/Category/Standards-Checklists" target="_blank">here</a>]. They are even ON SALE through the holiday weekend. HAPPY 4th of JULY!!</p><p>How do YOU keep track of standards? Is there something my binder is missing? I would love your suggestions... </p>Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-80458134920118667342014-06-30T19:50:00.000-04:002014-06-30T19:51:54.803-04:00ANOTHER MONDAY MADE ITI am so glad I discovered these "Monday Made It" link-ups with Tara at <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">4th Grade Frolics</a>. I found myself actually looking forward to Monday! ...it was a strange feeling... <br />
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<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/2014/06/monday-made-it-summer-week-5.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Monday Made It 1" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoT3Zf5K-_hypPRZiUnYYRedGkakWR8RMB27YpcI666HV72FsnrxYd6espf6W6vueGVr7HvhSRvw7l5NNHRVghNk51tqjG3J7L5yGQid2xbF3yWQsDVJN2cJIy4LQVIeLpav5HxUUKzA/?imgmax=800" height="300" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Monday Made It 1" width="300" /></a> <br />
It was kind of a slow week.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBTnkYp2PeDMFYPwTuCd4LgqEXWmPmnZTfn__dKYcVRhDxj1GcKnh5VmWP2wkFfVySkks77T1ITtzDJJC5XuO9WvsK0MEKzwPPbMUaa1QdhexQD4s-vT3owBhnicPh2fCuVBDNKjgpCo/s1600-h/Button%2525201%25255B4%25255D.png"><img alt="Button 1" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbae2WfECXX9jRT3pNKqV_VKj7nHWUlibAtrSQohtdqF8BydTvk3yw8CbmJmvuUFhyRXx_xxX4GMr33v6DLoS2Yub2BJZd0HsgiLGCjHGmBdQHhgEdn2EY6j1MXqQd-hsVtqpCuXq0RUw/?imgmax=800" height="150" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Button 1" width="150" /></a> <br />
...much like last week, I spent a lot of time "making" myself relax. I "made" my way through quite a few books on my summer reading list. Looking for Alaska by John Green and Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walters were my favorites this week. go. read. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGKbPZ-UKu-OuMRoziOlfuEu-InTZVhxy7by8I_DTO4WFObRn-rL-pUhacKjkDP6Dsmia3zuZdLyE992ymBWNPSF-88nBZ4b6JqkjKWf0b-Dn2lpD19qQYDDYmGcwMpjpF6Cy3Dbk3WgY/s1600-h/Button%2525202%25255B4%25255D.png"><img alt="Button 2" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITwNr7s0BcnR0yUJO5AYy___B7u3asjnRuzWyu_Ip_9dZl3lQ81oxm5QUlQlq6X0G1xpbT1Bqpe5XjEehmWDlWwxBcXC5RnPpf6EhMmcSWT_kFConKwl4YEtNMpsoAWuPdGbex8609zA/?imgmax=800" height="150" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Button 2" width="150" /></a> <br />
yummm. I kind of hate raw peppers and onion. UNLESS, they are in this delicious Black Bean and Corn Salsa. My bestest friend introduced me to this stuff last summer, and I am slightly addicted. (I really have no idea where she came up with the recipe, but you can find it [<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/59461657553188673/" target="_blank">here</a>] if you want to pin it.) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfVKkrd-c0ybvCqhbgFte8l-t7aDv2kdKnNMEjmt6t8nCma1clnMs5iFwkVlaS4ef-3SLgEIatVOnPQkOgbTk-W7ZaQh5EOcEU8aU1B_hZZjckWBDVVnn0rGGzw5cxWa_JsNA8hXPM6U/s1600-h/BlackBeanCornSalsa%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="BlackBeanCornSalsa" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1qp8ZpSPZGr8pNqFpWb-x3HN3xMZxy9aJf5jtqMwVxvg3ASZ5b9y47nxxFhNo2ZFLCaIdMH2YLA7I6uHeThIyJA4WPZDjPBkK1sq9WVm4y3ihvj_FuLAMGSPJCzcOb9d1xVsHWLop4s/?imgmax=800" height="320" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="BlackBeanCornSalsa" width="427" /></a> <br />
The best part: It is incredibly simple to make. <br />
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1 can of corn, drained <br />
1 can of black beans, drained <br />
1 small white onion, chopped <br />
1 red pepper, chopped <br />
3 tbsp olive oil <br />
3 tbsp apple cider vinegar <br />
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That is it! Combine, stir, enjoy, become addicted. <br />
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...I'll be back next week! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" /></a>Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-51278778746537290502014-06-23T21:31:00.000-04:002014-06-30T21:05:58.173-04:00MONDAY MADE ITAfter beginning summer vacation with a few weeks of school-free bliss, I am extremely excited to be linking up with <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">4th Grade Frolics</a> for Monday Made It. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilApP549uvbkDNmitbjnPRQ9u1k9LQH2Xd2r-FfvXYQarNyocwS1C0qqBxcVBibUKc37S_QceIg58ccQS4E58ky9hWi2gcraR4Lg_Qskl9SDlu8T75iEQFzGTmMibuDWPreEhxZwJAdFk/s1600-h/Monday%252520Made%252520It%2525201%25255B6%25255D.png"><img alt="Monday Made It 1" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsjj9TpidWJI-30Ukx2C3qHAAv_q5ITmYFp-G-IMpdQisK1yCXc-sqbq-SvLLMd-2FB1myrcI873blwxJfk4NA9r1pFN3s0qgumZ0uGl30pDdCxQhpCOW1SOUt-AXc5RE9N9LuxN5CDU/?imgmax=800" height="313" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Monday Made It 1" width="307" /></a><br />
Here we go…<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMkLm-PdbzXxwMeBum0WczccqQGreL_psbSiRB-va-FtBmC8iBoMuI1fH0ZVi2w_F9f95wTcwtAFQboGPE8bglmCUzLnlizKZVBC_HaCpowZHHdjzwGQ4IxG-U2AplVjXIIaBMbZZlTjI/s1600-h/Button%2525201%25255B4%25255D.png"><img alt="Button 1" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu0JO0Uq2Eeq8VXZx60HX8AiCsp-t4gID6BYGy9zORXXbEP8hYupFEsf6LPTEs57xKso-u7IougxCrQ0aKoCOpV-yvNT26rH53U42UkVwPHxyzae1xshbHjNmVmCY13Jm93qAcHeRDeQw/?imgmax=800" height="154" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Button 1" width="151" /></a><br />
Although I haven’t upcycled a filing cabinet yet this summer, many of my past summers have included filing cabinet makeovers. It is cheap, easy, and looks b-e-a-utiful when finished. I just recently posted instructions over my Spring Break. …check them out <a href="http://smackdabinthemiddleschool.blogspot.com/2014/03/filing-cabinet-upcycle_31.html" target="_blank">[here]</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDvnRYgpa249En8jkA0Cj-lFhF-x-1yceTxROdYgm18g6dWhWvo2-EDStNTatVtF8DD9f_L0irtl4uoIbypvoN8uA-Yil4JQapG-WZssrcL8JVIDTupMPzsA6lIOO_6AM_lKz6QvvcD0/s1600-h/FilingCabinetUpcycle.3%25255B5%25255D.png"><img alt="FilingCabinetUpcycle.3" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg68vPjyy-iu22CV_L3KK14UTRYwXRC7YN9-QKHrgco2asDPwfiCgVmMVlq2GvLONuC5ZSvkzMJOS1c4LLzZU2IiFDccxApDRfXUBhePnDNodm7i27-uUTVloKu28Jk636LliIvc84qwo4/?imgmax=800" height="392" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="FilingCabinetUpcycle.3" width="291" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYIDADI0IViZNJahNVBNQP_VSP5D1RygyO8pOUYLbWjXuaHMGcb4rfr_uAF75Ns_g98uZKXWpeH6xIJ4FM6O1CiWm_zFwfsO1piGnTA9t-r9PxwepOvEFs0MW6qm84E2_9tPvWjEkoG-U/s1600-h/Button%2525202%25255B5%25255D.png"><img alt="Button 2" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTT5rRxCEaUNgTD-5VE9l_jnKfOBPOiAUpTvSbni49T-VS3jWqy3Jio-qNKerCIfdGrD7woYbFWdtdyvAS09qgBcMnaDgJ0MJ0lr5T9IBdtwcDXgLr9TW3ayM1MErGWBjpwB5pd04PLc/?imgmax=800" height="154" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Button 2" width="151" /></a><br />
I am pretty new to the whole TpT thing, and I recently discovered how to make a power point editable. (baby steps…) As a result, I present to you, an [<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Massive-To-Do-ListEDITABLE-1287937" target="_blank">EDITABLE Massive ToDo List</a>]. If you are going to have a list of things to do, and let’s face it, we always have a list of things to do, it might as well look exciting. <br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Massive-To-Do-ListEDITABLE-1287937"><img alt="ToDo List" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4mDDP8W68MMvA9ke1GltFwYyCGoQK413cikDVk8bPnfnKZs2lgKG4UK3mf6XDkTpIg2zaqDHr8BnfiIGuzz30yyPYRLAOvUFtCn_6_SBWS66DgvFg6lbf3VcGxGa-bhSn3_GpBDOK4ME/?imgmax=800" height="347" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="ToDo List" width="264" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bQ0o-IqynbsDV5tuBCSTgVymfYDXtcAiKyZwfPnLB6S2nV07bqMVXvNIlVnDB9WrEHF-ubleo6I8mxGovJZd1DuJKD1dAPjL5K7kldSMzeqsavkcaR5usC_VvGlD7VGUOeCzJX9bXn8/s1600-h/Button%2525203%25255B4%25255D.png"><img alt="Button 3" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqn97b5iqLu-j49ScQq-9KFccusTDNaMCcOw44wgsDwCZKsb48fIcPFnE_Yw6iZ9B-MDgFB0HQQvtRbzSq-7fzQnAfWtf2gg4NRXzay2_6AfQ8LpM6Zj32mG-3cdoBLfmXYAD5A3Amg0/?imgmax=800" height="151" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Button 3" width="151" /></a><br />
…my final Monday Made It probably shouldn’t count, but I am “making” myself relax a bit this summer. My favorite way to spend my days is soaking up the sun, at the lake, with a good book. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTILe_uv9DKyUhcFtIiaqKuED9RCaYmDl4FlYR3iGyfnkVaYkzMHNrooSG4FJt2fRWNSy7mT3m1mhrCpK5SSN3toOd78_O7Afq1WvSLeNhk-iaupArCTZaTi3LmPw369GkeXZ4-eyqzVs/s1600-h/LakeBliss%25255B4%25255D.png"><img alt="LakeBliss" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODrSn9nxDwNQ34-TGXXZio-PO4mThVmNk2CRsyw4N-u14cKpaawfBKSXLdek-08w4thPQTVWPQmSyoDd723_DzKcRNzfIhFrRXVeZtJsc2KsGyxIEluTgteyoxYOQg3A80bp_vHqcRJY/?imgmax=800" height="331" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="LakeBliss" width="246" /></a><br />
Happy Summer!!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdUsSK05MDZ89MYETyfdrcQDOt1xIHeJHRBFTbSKrAKqZEy39u72DMMGZuH7vJoEmso8d05i9c4bmbiOBbXeOmV9eha6HKcsu2_3FV_N8RQt51OGMUC-g7c_MTiQ7Taus656AByCPpz_k/s1600/Signature.png" /></a>Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-62376869779165110752014-06-16T16:50:00.000-04:002014-06-18T17:31:34.519-04:00WELL SPOKENWatch out Summer Bucket List, here I come.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have already finished reading my first of at least three professional development books this summer. <a href="http://www.stenhouse.com/html/well-spoken.htm" target="_blank">Well Spoken: Teaching Speaking to All Students by Erik Palmer</a> is a must-read. Seriously. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was hooked before I even finished the first chapter. "Now, let me make a radical statement: the mission of education should not be to make students better at school but rather to prepare them for life." yes!! Mr. Palmer, I completely and whole-heartedly agree. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If we are being honest, we spend a lot more of our time as adults communicating orally rather than through writing. ...so we should probably teach a few of those oral communication skills if we are going to prepare our students for life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well Spoken breaks down teaching speaking into two realistic, easy-to-understand, and easy-to-implement parts: building a speech and performing a speech. Oh, and PVLEGS is the perfect mnemonic for keeping track of those elements of performance and engaging students. "Check out her PVLEGS!!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Buy it, read it, incorporate it into your classroom. Go to <a href="http://www.pvlegs.com/">www.pvlegs.com</a> and learn more about Teaching Speaking to All Students. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">...my quarterly book report projects are going to look drastically different and I cannot wait. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">[no, I was not asked to write a review; these are just my fabulous opinions. You're welcome.] </span><br />
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Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7094026183428620926.post-29878758438204117772014-06-13T22:11:00.000-04:002014-06-13T22:46:07.714-04:00SUMMER BUCKET LISTokay, I know. Many of you have probably had your Summer Bucket List organized by priority and color-coded for weeks, but I am just now getting around to even thinking about all that I want to accomplish this summer. <br>
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1. I love reading. I kind of made this ridiculous goal back in January to read 52 books this year; an average of a book a week. ...so far I have read twelve... I've decided that at least three of the books I read this summer should be for professional development. This one has been in my car since I received it at a conference last August. It is slightly smudged, but I feel as though it is full of potential.<br>
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2. I also want to create another novel unit for my fabulous sixth graders. ...I just have to pick a book. I am currently leaning toward Wonder by R.J. Palacio or possibly The Westing Game. ...other suggestions are welcome. : ]<br>
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3. I need a better system. I am so horrible at documenting all of those little behavioral outbursts, keeping track of incomplete homework, paying attention to who has supplies and who doesn't... Help!! If you have a system that works for you, I would love to hear all about it. ...seriously, help me.<br>
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4. In addition to teaching, I am also the Youth Director at my church and I have spent many hours planning a Summer Mission Trip to COSTA RICA!! I am so excited, and so very blessed, to be taking a group of high school youth to Costa Rica where we will have the opportunity to share HIS LOVE in word and action. ...there is still lots to be done, and pulling off this trip is going to be one of my biggest priorities this summer. <br>
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I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20.<br>
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5. Relax, relax, relax. I need me some me time!! I can think of nothing better than endless hours at the lake, sleeping in my hammock, laying in the sun, and breathing the lake air. ...and I am hoping this summer's Jimmy Buffett concert is even better than the last. <br>
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[with the best friend at Jimmy last summer]</div>
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Well, wish me luck. I LOVE summer!!!<br>
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<br>Heather @ Smack Dab in the Middlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14109308080990682142noreply@blogger.com0