Teaching in High Heels

Guest Blogger..Christina

2012-03-02T00:01:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone!

My name is Christina and I'm visiting from Second Grade Sugar and Spice! I'm *so* excited and honored to be Gladys' guest blogger today and eager to share some ideas with you! Before we start, I would be wrong not to say "Happy Birthday!" to our dear friend, Dr. Seuss! I'll start my post by sharing a quick Seussy freebie with you in celebration of his birthday! :)

Today, I want to share a little about my Daily 3 Math routine with you. I know most of you use The Daily 5 literacy routine in your classrooms. The Daily 5 was developed by The Sisters, who are actually working on a book for math that follows The Daily 5 structure for reading.

They have started to share bits and pieces of their math routine on their website. After waiting a while, I realized I would have to piece together what they have so far and come up with my own version until the book comes out (which will immediately go on my must-read list!).

Last year was my first year in second grade, and I was new to the curriculum. After the first quarter, I was very unhappy with my students' test scores and math achievement. Was I not good at teaching second grade?! Was I not teaching the concepts in a way that was understandable to my students? After I stopped panicking, I realized my students were getting loads of small group differentiation in every aspect of literacy within my room- guided reading, individual reading conferences, writing workshop meetings and mini-lessons, and even differentiated spelling groups. What was I doing in math? - whole group learning. That was not going to cut it for me. And it was not reaching all of my learners. Daily 3 math was the same answer for my math scores as Daily 5 was for my students' reading achievement.

I have 3 "choices" in math: Math by Myself, Math with Someone, and Math on Computers. In addition to these three choices, I have a Math with Teacher component, which I pre-pick each week based on my students' needs. In my Daily 5 reading routine, I meet with three reading groups each day. Unfortunately, I only have time to meet with two small math groups a day right now. One day, I hope to change that. For now, I'll take what I can get! :)

So what are students doing while I work with my small groups in math? They are engaged in much the same way my students are in Daily 5 -doing math stuff! Before we started making math choices, we created and reviewed I-Charts in the same way we did for Daily 5. The Sisters have their I-Charts for math on their website videos. (Please note that you do need a subscription to view some of their videos.)

Math By Myself: Students first complete our math journal pages from today's whole group mini-lesson. Then, if time remains within the round, they take a Math by Myself game from our red bookshelf and work on it quietly at their desk, or somewhere around the room. Above, you can see that I divided my math games into two colors. Blue bins=By myself games. These include games such as Domino Train, Math Facts, Tangrams, Memory Math games, Number Order (arrange cards and count by 2s, 3s, 4s, 7s, etc.), and lots and lots of math task cards they can complete in their notebooks.

Math With Someone: When students choose Math With Someone, they choose from the green bins and play a game with a partner. These games change throughout the year, ranging from review games to a game that covers a current topic we are studying. Some of my games are from The Sisters website such as Poison and Bump. Others include games I find from wonderful bloggers such as yourself, games I create, or games I find in our math series. Some of my favorites are Base Ten Exchange, Coin Exchange, and Addition and Subtraction war games.

Math On Computer: This choice is pretty self-explanatory. I have a folder on my student desktops filled with online games I have found for my students to play. Most of these games are review games throughout the year. One of my struggling students is using a program called MobyMath, an intervention program, during our Daily 3 "Math On Computer" time.

My students each get a "Math Contract" that is similar to their Daily 5 charts. Students cross out the choices they make throughout the week and write the game they played in the box.

My "Meet With Teacher" schedule is on my Smart board each day. Students meeting with me know ahead of time.

My system isn't perfect -at all. I'm constantly trying to figure out an organizational system for keeping all of my games straight. (Until I win the lottery, I cannot afford a separate bin for every different game.) And, in my dream world, I would have another big magnetic board to create a Daily 3 math "CAFE" board just like The Sisters have. But until then, I have noticed a dramatic increase in my students' math achievement and I'm excited about what the future for my Daily 3 math can hold!

Thank you so much for letting me be a guest blogger on Teaching in High Heels with Gladys! I had SO much fun and enjoyed sharing my math routine with you! :) If you have any questions or would just like to visit my blog and find some great freebies, you can find me at Second Grade Sugar and Spice. I'd love to hear from all of you!

Happy Learning! :)

Thanks for being a guest blogger, Christina! I love the way you have structured your math block.
You gave me lots of ideas to try with my sweet Firsties.
Thanks for sharing it with us!

Guest Bloggers...on the way!

2012-03-01T18:33:00.001-06:00

First of all I want to thank everyone who stopped by my 'lil TpT store yesterday during the ginormous
Leap Day Sale. Y'all just made my day! Thanks bunches!

I have a little something for you all..but being that it's been a CRAZY (RTI stuff and getting ready for an audit) kinda week..I'm gonna have to finish it on the weekend.

Pinky promise!

On another note...I am soooo excited because tomorrow I will have my first

for the month of March. Woohoo!

Stop by tomorrow to see who will be the first mystery blogger..so much fun, I tell 'ya!

Until next time...toodles!

Giant TpT Sale!

2012-02-28T23:29:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all!

I'm sure all of you have heard of TpT's Ginormous Sale...I mean who hasn't?!

I know I have my cart full of the uber cute units I've had my eye on for a while. :)

Reagan and Farley are hosting an awesome linky party for the sale.I've already linked up my store..have you?

Last time I checked there were 192 stores linked up...yikes!

I may have to hide this sale from my hubby.

Shhhh...don't tell, 'kay?;)

So everything in my store will be on sale for 20% off but if you use code L2P96 TpT will give you an extra 10% off...for a total of 28%.

Awesome!!

Remember that this sale will only last 1 day...so get your shop on and go fill up those carts!

I'm so excited to tell you that I have finished

this little mini-unit just in time for the sale!

Here is a preview of all the goodies you can find inside.

I hope you go and check it out!

As always the first 2 people to leave me a comment will receive my newest unit for free!

Don't forget to leave your email address!

P.S. I also have these items on sale at my TpT store!

Tomorrow we'll be celebrating my son's 12th birthday...{yes, my special boy is a leap year baby!}

My hubby and I can't wait to give him his surprise!

In his honor..I will be having a little surprise for you too..I hope you stop by tomorrow to find out what it is!

Until then, toodles!

Teacher Feature

2012-02-26T09:56:00.000-06:00

Hi friends..I hope everyone is having a great weekend...I know I sure am!

Yesterday our school participated in our annual UIL competition...this was the 34th year participating in this event..this is some serious stuff, y'all! And I couldn't be prouder of my two little contestants! I'm the UIL coach for Storytelling at my school...which is an event only for 2nd and 3rd grade...well my 2nd grade contestant got 6th place..which is really good considering it's a district wide competition. But my 3rd grader got 1st place!! This is the 2nd year in a row that she takes the 1st place...last year she also got 1st place as a 2nd grader...I am so proud of my little one! I've been coaching her since she was in 1st grade and it's been an amazing ride...she's grown up so much and is a wonderful storyteller...I wish y'all could see her...she's AMAZING! I'm also a little sad because this was her last year with me...next year she'll be participating in Oral Reading which is an event for 4th-6th grade students..bittersweet, I tell 'ya. So as you can see it's been a hectic weekend so far..but today is another day. :)

Ok..so that's it for my weekend adventures..today I'll be staying home..catching up on blog stalking, Pinterest, and oh yeah lesson plans and grades...can't forget those things! Oh, the life of a 1st grade teacher...is so exciting!

Don't think for a minute that I've forgotten about my Teacher Features though..again..life got CRAZY busy this past week..so I"m having it to do on a Sunday..but no worries..I picked two super cute ladies to feature..their blogs are awesome..you'll be so glad you stopped by to check them out!

Here we go!

First is Chistina from Second Grade Sugar and Spice.

Christina is in her 4th year of teaching, she taught 2 years in 1st and is now in her second year in 2nd grade. She loves sharing ideas and activities with other teachers and adores creating classroom themes.

This year Christina has a Candyland theme in her classroom...how fun is that?!?

This Candyland board is what her students use to master their math facts. When a student passes their timed test for the level they are on, they move up the Candyland board. Each time a student passes a landmark on the gameboard they receive a reward. Christina does an amazing job in motivating her little ones to master those facts as quickly as possible..and talk about differentiation..her students are moving up at their own pace. Love this idea!

This is Christina's cute Candyland Writing Board. As her students move through the writing process, they move their gumball to show which stage they are on...at a glance she knows exactly where her students are and what they should be doing..definitely a great management tool!

Christina also loves sharing freebies with other teachers..here are 2 cute printables I found perfect for this week of all things Dr. Seuss.

Please stop by Second Grade Sugar and Spice to find more cuteness, and while you're there..don't forget to follow!

Second is Sandra from Sandra's Savvy Teaching Tips.

Sandra is a Canadian teacher in Vancouver, she has been teaching for 19 years and is currently teaching 2nd grade. She also loves paper crafting and has been doing this for many years...you can definitely tell her love of crafting by the artwork projects she has her students do in her classroom...take a looksie.

Aren't these amazing?!? Wow!

Please stop by Sandra's blog for more cute and savvy teaching tips...and don't forget to follow!

That's it for today peeps...if you want to be featured here on Teaching in High Heels shoot me an email to let me know. :)

Until next time, toodles!

Help Wanted

2012-02-21T23:20:00.002-06:00

Hey y'all!

So I know it's still officially winter...but here in South Texas...it's the start of softball, baseball, and other spring sports..and y'all know what that means, right? That means this momma/teacher is going to be super duper busy! Add to that busy schedule..Texas Public Schools Week (March 5-9), open house, parent/teacher conferences, and other miscellaneous STAAR and TELPAS trainings...pheeww...I'm getting tired just thinking about it! PTL we have Spring Break right after that madness..it'll probably take me the entire week just to recover!

Anywho...this is where you my lovelies come in...

I know that I'll be super busy with all of the activities going on in the month of March...and even though I can juggle several things at once

(most of the time)...I'm no super teacher, super mom, or super anything...nope...not this little lady!

So I've been thinking of a plan..I mean really thinking..because the last thing I want to do is neglect my pretty little blog..and then..light bulb moment! I remembered how successful my guest bloggers were last year and decided why not try it again?!

If you are interested in guest blogging on my 'lil ole blog...please shoot me an e-mail. I will be taking 10 guest bloggers for the month of March...so please contact me asap...if you know you want to be a guest blogger here on Teaching in High Heels.

As a guest blogger I would love to have you share your teaching adventures, lesson planning, classroom organizing, center activities, or whatever else strikes your fancy!

In the post you can link back to your own blog...so that my readers can go to your blog and read more about you.

Fun, right?!

I hope someone out there will be willing to guest blog...here in my little corner of blogosphere.

If you are...please let me know as soon as you can..I’ll confirm if I can run your post and let you know when to expect it.

Thanks to all who wish to contribute!!

Toodles!

♥♥♥

P.S. If you are interested in being featured on
Teacher Feature Thursday..please email me at teachinginhighheels(at)gmail(dot)com. ;)

Teacher Feature..on a Sunday

2012-02-19T22:44:00.001-06:00

Hi y'all!
I hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend..I so wish I had a 3 day weekend like the rest of America...but as it turns out I don't..so off to work I go tomorrow..on President's Day. Oh well..Spring Break is just around the corner...or so I keep telling myself. ;)

Anyway onto today's teacher feature...

First is Sarah from Sarah's First Grade Snippets.

Sarah is a sweet first grade teacher, mommy, and blogger. She has wonderful and cute ideas and is oh so generous in sharing tons of freebies on her blog.

One of my favorite freebies is this Presidential Mini-Unit that I found. It is 24 pages full of awesomeness!

I absolutely adore this anchor chart!

Sarah also has lots of resources for sale at her TpT Store...these are a couple that I'm putting on my wishlist.

Aren't they cute?!

Oh and let me leave you with this picture of her awesome kid-made bulletin board.

Perfect for a nutrition unit...don't 'ya think?

Please visit Sarah's blog for more ideas and inspiration...and don't forget to follow her!

Next we have Rachel from Ms. Rachel's Room.

Rachel is a sweet Special Education teacher and blogger. She has an uber cute blog and has lots of wonderful ideas. I love these cute Dr. Seuss Background Papers that she created...so cute and colorful!

You can find these papers at her TpT store..as a freebie! I know that I'll definitely be using them to create a cute Dr. Seuss center or something. :)

While you're at her store...check out her St. Patrick's Day Craftivity, at a $1.50..it's a steal!

For more cute ideas visit Rachel's blog and while you're there..don't forget to follow.

Okay...that's it for tonight..I'm off to fix my school bag and prepare for tomorrow.

Enjoy your extra day off...if you have one...if you're like me and you have to work tomorrow...no worries..it'll be a great day! ;)

Lucky Leprechauns Dolch Phrases

2012-02-18T21:58:00.000-06:00

Hi y'all!

Just a quick post to let 'ya know that I have finished my Lucky Leprechauns Dolch Phrases, you can find them at my TpT store...I hope you take a looksy! My kiddos love using these flashcards to practice their fluency...they even time themselves..too cute and so much fun!

As always the first 2 people to comment will get these for free!

I'll be back tomorrow with my Teacher Feature Thursday that I missed this week.

Hope everyone is enjoying their evening!

Toodles!

Love this Pencil Sharpener!

2012-02-13T21:55:00.000-06:00

So not too long ago I contacted Troy to see if I could test his sharpener in my classroom. You guys...my little firsties go through pencils like there is no tomorrow! We used to have a shmancy fancy pencil sharpener...a $300...pencil sharpener...it didn't last very long...I don't know what it is with my first graders and sharpeners...they just don't get along...and sadly..pencil sharpeners just end up dying in my classroom! So unfortunate, I know!

I got so tired of it one day that I came to the conclusion...my kiddos had to bring their own sharpeners and sharpen their own pencils...let me tell 'ya...NIGHTMARE!! Thank goodness Troy has allowed us to try his uber cool sharpener in our little classroom...and y'all..I am impressed!

Here are some of the things I REALLY like:

1. It truly lives up to its name...it is most definitely the quietest classroom pencil sharpener I have come across.

2. It is super easy to use...even my little ones were able to use it!

3. It makes THE sharpest point I have ever seen with any pencil sharpener..it even sharpens those cheap dollar store pencils! I hate writing with a dull pencil...so this is perfect!

4. It can be mounted or not...it's up to you.

5. Super easy to clean...love!

6. Blades are replaceable...if ever need be.

This is what it looks like...cute, huh?

If you are interested in getting one of these lovely sharpeners click here or the picture below.

It's only $19.95 and totally worth it! Plus it's free shipping!

Thanks Troy...for creating such a wonderful classroom tool!

Disclaimer: I received this product free of charge in exchange for an honest review and opinion. The opinions expressed in this post are my own and have not been influenced by the company or the free product provided. :)

Reading Graphic Organizers

2012-02-12T19:55:00.000-06:00

Just a quick post to let y'all know that I have finally uploaded my Reading Graphic Organizers for Little Learners to my TpT store.

It took me FOR.EVA to upload this evening...but it's finally there!

It will be on sale for 50% off until midnight...along with my V-day stuff..so you might want to take a peek at that too!

The first 2 people to leave a comment will receive this for free...just don't forget to leave your email address.

Everyone enjoy the rest of your evening!

Toodles!

Currently {February}

2012-02-11T18:52:00.000-06:00

Today I am linking up with Farley for her Currently...February.

Join the linky party by visiting her blog below...

In other news...I am also currently having a little sale in my TpT store...just in time for V-Day!
You will find the following items on sale for $1.50...that's 50% their original price..pretty cool, huh?!
The sale will only last for 24 hours..so I hope you take advantage!

I'll be back tomorrow with some fun stuff...until then...toodles! ;)

Teacher Feature Thursday :)

2012-02-09T21:58:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday, everyone!

I'm so excited to be featuring some fabulous blogs today!

Randi is a sweet 1st grade teacher in North Carolina and the blogger over at:

Randi just recently got a blog makeover and her new button is precious...love that cute little bird!Speaking of love...I also adore her classroom...the organization, the colors, and her love for owls..makes my heart pitter-patter! Those are some lucky kiddos she teaches..take a look for yourself.

Isn't her room adorbs?!

Randi also loves to share freebies both on her blog and on her TpT store...these are just a few of my favorite.

Make sure to go and visit Randi over at Teach It With Class...so you can grab those cute little freebies!

I also have to mention that she has a totally adorable unit just perfect for the month of February.

Too cute, huh?!

Click here..to purchase it from her TpT store.

Next, is Kelli the blogger over at Castles and Crayons. Kelli is a sweet 1st grade teacher in Birmingham, Alabama...she loves crafting, cinnamon rolls, monograms, life in the South, and all things PINK! Goodness gracious...I love all those things myself!

Kelli is the queen of organization...take a look at her fabulous classroom!

Isn't her room...precious!?! Makes me want to have a jungle theme in my classroom soon! Ha!

Kelli is one of those teachers that loves to share freebies with her followers...so hop on over to her blog to grab this Mystery Word Activity.

Okay folks...that's it for this evening...remember to stop by Castles and Crayons and Teach It With Class to learn more about these amazing teachers.

I hope y'all are enjoying these Teacher Feature posts...remember if you want to have your own blog featured here on Teaching in High Heels..shoot me an email.

Until next time, toodles!

WILW

2012-02-08T21:04:00.001-06:00

Hey y'all, happy Wednesday!

Here's what I'm loving on this beautiful day!

I'm loving the fact that it is mid-week already..two more days to go for the weekend!

I'm loving the nice cup of coffee and lovely conversation I had with my parents just a couple of hours ago.

I'm loving these beautiful Pinterest finds:

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I'm loving this brand new pencil sharpener I received today!

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Thank you, Troy!

Full review to be posted soon.

And I'm loving this sweet little face!

Don't forget to link up with Jamie to play along!

So what are you loving today?

100th Day and Rachel's Challenge

2012-02-06T17:56:00.000-06:00

Hi y'all..happy Monday!

Hope everyone is having a fantastic day! :)

Last week my Firsties and I celebrated the 100th day of school...and this is what we did for our celebration.

Our decorated door...welcomed my little kiddidles.

The gumball machine with 100 gumballs and the pizza with 100 toppings were totally inspired by

Ms. Simoneaux at First Grade Fresh .

This cute little polka-dotted monster was inspired by

Mrs. Maya. I found him on Pinterest and knew I had to make him with my littles...so cute!

Last week our school also took on Rachel's Challenge as a school wide kindness initiative...I LOVED that ALL of our students 1st-6th had to sign their names on a large mural that will be displayed in our main hallway as a reminder of our promise to be kind to one another. Here are a few pics of the display.

"I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion then it will start a chain reaction of the same. "-Rachel Scott

If you want to learn more about Rachel's Challenge click here.

Are You Ready for a Sale!?!

2012-02-05T14:10:00.001-06:00

I know I said I would post some classroom happenings today...but being that I've been living in a fog as of late and that I left my camera at school...and that I haven't been there since Wednesday...uhhh...I think that may not be happening today! Sorry, peeps! I will post as soon as I have my pictures ready to go.

On a happier note..I grew up watching football (Go, Cowboys!)...so I love me some football (and sales!) as much as the girl next door...in celebration of Super Bowl Sunday, I am throwing a sale at my TpT Store. All items will be 50% off until the end of today's big game!

Click on the pic below to go to my store.

These are some of the latest things that you can find there...

So who are you rooting for? The Giants or the Patriots?

The first 2 people to comment with their favorite team...will get a little surprise from my store. ;)

Toodles!

Love is in the Air!

2012-02-04T22:35:00.000-06:00

Hi y'all!

Happy Saturday...okay...so maybe not so happy Saturday for me...I've been feeling under the weather since Wednesday evening...yuck! So..I've been spending lots of quality time in bed under the covers...or on my couch under the covers..(see the pattern?)

My little bout with illness has lead me to finish up my latest little mini-unit..

Love is in the Air! {Literacy Activities for Little Learners}...you can find it in my TpT store.

Just in time for you to enjoy! ;)

Here's a little preview...I hope you like it!

The first 2 night owls to leave me a comment will get this little packet for free! Just remember to leave your email address.

I'll be back tomorrow with some classroom happenings...until then...toodles!

Teacher Feature Thursday

2012-02-02T17:50:00.001-06:00

Hey y'all!

As promised...today I am beginning my new Teacher Feature Thursday...and I'm so excited about it!

I can't wait to introduce these fabulous teacher bloggers!

Rebecca is a 1st grade teacher and she has the cutest blog! Love those darlin' owls and polka dots...can't go wrong with that combo!She is in her 5th year of teaching...has taught 4th grade for 2 years and now is in her third year in 1st grade...and loves it! I do too, Rebecca!Head on over to her blog to find these amazing (and FREE!) resources.

I love this Bucket Filler resource...adorable!

Check out her Bucket Filler bulletin board...so cute! And the polka dots?! Awww...a girl after my own heart!

I used these for our money unit...and still have them displayed in our classroom!

Thanks for the freebie, Rebecca!

She has also just recently opened her TpT store and TN shop..these are just a few things you can find there...

Both are on my TpT wishlist...and I seriously cannot wait for her Personal Narratives Unit...I am absolutely sure it'll be AWESOME!

Head on over to Rebecca's blog and give her some love...and don't forget to follow her!

Next stop, Lisa Lizak and Beth Wright from Made in the Shade in Second Grade. These amazing women are both 2nd grade teachers extraordinaire..BFF's, and Justin Beiber fans! LOVE!

They both love using Thinking Maps in their classroom...I have found and use many of their resources...our district adopted Thinking Maps a few years ago..and we have been using them for everything ever since.These are some of the AWESOME and free resources you can find on their blog.

I love, love, love the respect circle map and friendship tree map!

My darlin' Firsties are in that stage where they are bickering for anything and everything...these thinking maps will be a great activity to remind them of some expected behaviors in our classroom. Can't wait to try these out!

I also want to mention that Lisa has a TpT store where you can find all of her products for FREE!

I {puffy}heart FREE, I mean who doesn't?!

This totally cute freebie is on my table at the moment waiting to be laminated. Can't wait to use it in a math tub in the Spring!

Please go over and visit these fantastic ladies...become a follower and give them some much deserved bloggie love!

That's it for tonight folks. I'll be back next Thursday with a few more amazing features!

If you're interested in being featured here on Teaching in High Heels...shoot me an email at teachinginhighheels(at)gmail(dot)com

Until next time, toodles!
P.S. Thanks for sending me lots of love and good vibes...my evaluation ROCKED! Pheeew! So glad to have that over and done with! ;)

Sweet...words!

2012-01-31T22:09:00.000-06:00

I love Valentine's Day!

The flowers, the chocolate, the sweet cards...awww...love, love, LOVE!

In honor of this sweet little holiday...I created these Sweet Dolch Phrases for my adorable Firsties..the English version has been uploaded to my TpT store...the Spanish version will be available tomorrow.

And just because I love y'all...this little packet will be available for a $1 for the next 24 hours! So hurry and grab it before it goes back to regular price. :)

In other news...I know I've been tagged more than a few times (I wasn't quick enough for some of these ladies...thanks Alisha, Sandra, Mary, Delighted, and Gina!) So I'll be posting the answers to those intriguing questions...soon...pinky promise!

One last thing...please keep me in mind tomorrow...I have my formal observation during my ESL time...we'll be doing some cute Groundhog activities that have been floating around blogland...can't wait to get this over with, and blog about it! ;)

Enjoy the rest of your evening!

Toodles!

Surprise!

2012-01-29T13:43:00.000-06:00

For the next 10 hours (or longer..who knows?!) I will be having a sale at my TpT store...you will be able to get any or all of my products for $1 each...woohoo!

What are we celebrating?

Y'all of course!

I have the greatest, most awesome followers in the world!

I love y'all...and I can't get enough of your sweet comments...this is my way of showing my appreciation.

Thanks a bunch!

So I hope you take advantage and stock up...the sale won't last long!

This is what you can find in my store...I hope you likey, like!

English Version

Spanish Version

Ok that's it...I hope you take advantage and shop 'till you drop! ;)

Until next time, toodles!

What I'm Loving Today

2012-01-26T20:50:00.000-06:00

I really, really like Jamie's WILW...and since I missed it yesterday...

here is what I'm loving today!

I'm loving that I got these books today.

I had been wanting these books FOR.E.VER and a long time...so a couple of weeks ago I mentioned them to my principal...and today...surprise! They were in my mailbox at school! Brand new and all mine! LOVE!

I'm loving that tomorrow is FRIDAY! Enough said...TGIF!

I'm loving this adorable cross-curricular literature unit that my friend Cheryl Saoud at Primary Graffiti created...it is perfect for learning about and celebrating the concept of friendship in the month of February.

Look at everything she's included!

Thanks Cheryl...for creating this awesome unit!

I'm also loving my BFF's (bloggie friends forever!)

"Pocket Full of Love" Valentine Themed Unit..can you say ADORABLE?!

Alisha is soooo creative!

Last...but definitely not least...I'm loving this sweet picture of my lovely daughter.

Love my little girl!

P.S. Beginning next week I will be doing a Teacher Feature on Thursdays...if you would like to have your blog featured please shoot me an email.

Until next time, toodles!

Flash Sale!

2012-01-22T16:46:00.001-06:00

Happy Sunday, y'all!

Just stopping by to let you know that I'm having a Flash Sale over at my TpT store. You can find all of my newest products for a $1...isn't that great?! The sale will last until 12:00 midnight (or possibly 'till tomorrow morning...who knows!) So hurry on over and stock up on some Winter Math and Literacy centers.

I'll be starting my Penguins Unit tomorrow...so stayed tuned for some cute activities my Firsties will be doing this week.

Toodles!

Spanish Dolch Phrases

2012-01-21T21:49:00.002-06:00

Hi friends!

I hope everyone is having a FABULOUS weekend!

I've been relaxing on my couch, enjoying my kiddos, and watching Bones on Netflix most of the afternoon. I've been lovin' my lazy Saturday. :)

As a 1st grade teacher I know that fluency plays a big role in the reading lives of my little ones..so when I see that my firsties are doing ok..with their fluency..not great, but ok..I am determined to find ways to help them improve their fluency. And being that it's the weekend and I had some couch and laptop time..I did manage to finish a set of Spanish Dolch Phrases so my little sweeties could get more practice time..so as you can see it wasn't a totally unproductive day. You can find them at my TpT store if you're interested.

While you're there...please check out my Winter Wonderland Math Games and Winter Wonderland Literacy Centers.

To thank you for being a faithful reader of my 'lil ole blog..I'll be giving away these Spanish Dolch Phrases to the first 2 people to leave a comment...don't forget your email addy.

Okay...I'm off to do more vegging on the couch...Yo Gabba Gabba and my little one are commanding my attention now.

Toodles!

Classroom Happenings

2012-01-15T21:25:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all...happy Sunday!

I hope everyone is enjoying their 3 day weekend..as for me..I'll be heading to work at 7:15 in the am..armed with all the cute MLK activities I have accumulated from my bloggie friends!

Thanks a bunch, peeps!

So here's what my Firsties have been up to...

We have been learning all about inventors and inventions..so when I asked my friend Alisha to give me some fresh and new ideas she directed me to The First Grade Parade where I found these adorable light bulb anchor charts.

Too cute!

Please forgive my Blackberry photos..and yes we are still missing two inventors; the Wright brothers and Thomas Edison will be added this week.

After learning about the inventor, my kiddos had to write about them...I love first grade writing!

I also {puffy} heart the progress they have made!

love the drawing...as for the penmanship..well..it needs a little work.

During my ESL time this week we read The Mitten by Jan Brett and made this story map.

As well as some other uber cute mitten activities..let's just say we had a blast! I'm so proud of my sweeties..they are being little sponges when it comes to learning English...LOVE!

This idea again comes from Cara...thanks girl for being such an endless source of inspiration!

The little pictures are from Erin at Creating and Teaching {such a cute blog!}..we also used these for a sequencing activity that I forgot to take pictures of..oh well..you can find the printable at Erin's blog here.

If you haven't read The Mitten with your class yet..you can check out my Marvelous Mittens post for more ideas and links to some really cute stuff!

So that's it for my teaching week, now for some random stuff..I just realized that I have no pictures of myself on my blog {weird, right?!}..I'm usually behind the lens or the cell phone {in most cases} thus no cute pics of me..but I LOVE this picture taken of hubby and I..so I thought I would share it with the world! Ha!

I usually don't dress this fancy everyday...but in December my little 15 year old sister had her debutante ball..thus the reason for our formal attire. I absolutely adore this picture of my handsome hubby and I..and I most definitely love dressing up! ;)

This is my little sister Valeria...isn't she beautiful?!

Love that girl!

That's it peeps, I hope you have a fabulous day tomorrow..please think of me when you are in your pj's enjoying a cup of coffee while blog stalking. I'll be dealing with 15 little energizer bunnies...that keep going, and going, and going. Oh boy!

Monday...here we come!

Winter Literacy Centers

2012-01-14T22:50:00.002-06:00

Hey y'all!

Just stopping by really quick to let you all know that I have uploaded my

Winter Wonderland Literacy Centers to TpT.

I hope you all can go check it out!

As a thank you for being a faithful follower and reading my blog so late at night...I'll be giving away this packet to the first 2 people to comment. Make sure to leave your email address so that I can send you your little packet.

I'll be back tomorrow to post about some classroom happenings.

Toodles!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2012-01-11T21:59:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday, y'all!

Here is what I'm loving on this beautiful day...

I'm loving the 78 degree weather..yes people..I'm a South Texas girl..I don't do cold!

I'm loving that my firsties ROCKED...our 2nd quarter district common assessments...woohoo!

I'm loving that tomorrow is Thursday...thus my mini-Friday! And one day closer to the weekend! ;)

I'm loving that Josh Hutcherson will play Peeta Mellark in The Hunger Games movie...awww...cutie patootie!

Can. not. wait to watch this movie!

Do you remember him in Bridge to Terabithia?

Loved him!

I'm loving these Pinterest finds...

{source}

Ok..peeps..I'm off to enjoy some me time...don't forget to go and link up with Jamie and tell us what you're loving today!

Toodles!

Currently {January}

2012-01-09T19:22:00.000-06:00

This was sooo much fun! Now go and link up with Farley at Oh' Boy 4th Grade...and join the party!

Happy Monday!

Spanish Letter Tiles {Freebie!}

2012-01-07T12:00:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all!

So it's Saturday... and I woke up early...drank some coffee...stalked some blogs...had my Pinterest fix...and created some Spanish Letter Tiles.

I don't know about you..but I always find a hard time finding these little gems...so I thought it was about time I created my own..so now all I have to do is print on white cardstock, cut out, laminate and I'm all set!

I can use these little tiles in my small group instruction or in my word work center. Awesome!

You can find these Spanish Letter Tiles in my TpT store where they'll be listed as a freebie for a limited time only...don't ask me how long...who knows?! Yea, I'm a procrastinator..so it might be a while before I change the listing..so take advantage!

I'm in the process of creating some more Spanish materials...I know it's a limited market...but if any of you have any requests...or just something that you can't live without just shoot me an email...and I'll see what I can do. I recently purchased lots of clipart and I'm super excited to use it in my creations!

Okay...so that's it...gals {and guys?} I'm off to do some laundry...oh the joys of being a working mom! Wouldn't trade it for the world! :)

Toodles!

So Excited!

2012-01-05T20:17:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all!

As you can see from the title of my post I am so excited!

Today was our 2nd day back since our Christmas Break..and as much as I would like to say that my kiddos have been calm and quiet..and perfect angels...they just haven't!

I'm just keeping it real, y'all!

They've been chatty and squirmy and...well you get the picture...but they've also been eager to get back into our routine...and except for a couple of little pills (bless their hearts!)...they've been good kiddos!

We started our MOY DRA assessments...and so far everyone has been at a level 10 or above...woohoo! I even had a child go from a level 4 BOY to a level 14 MOY and his fluency rate is at 97 WPM...wowie! Impressive! I do have to say that this particular child has a wonderful support system at home...and his mom encourages and challenges him to practice his reading EVERYDAY. If only all of our kids' parents were like this...{sigh!}

Another reason why I'm super excited is that even though I've had my TpT store open for a while..(with some real cool freebies if I do say so myself..ha!)..I just haven't had time to make anything to sell, but that all changed last night when I listed my first "for sale" item..yippee! It's a little Winter Wonderland Math packet that you can check out here. And for even better news I just sold my first one today! Whoop, whoop! I'm totally on cloud 9...and can't believe it!

Anywho..if any of you are interested in checking out this 'lil fun packet, please visit my TpT store...not only will you find the Winter Wonderland Math Games, you'll also find my fun freebies!

I hope you take a peek!

Toodles!

One Little Word for 2012

2011-12-31T18:22:00.000-06:00

Only a few hours left before we say goodbye to 2011...sadly it has come to an end...but don't despair...with all good endings, come great beginnings! 2011 was a fabulous year...but I am so looking forward to 2012! I know it will be a FANTASTIC year!

Instead of having a New Year's resolution...{which leaves me feeling bad about myself when I abandon it...guilt is something I do not do well with}...this year I have decided to choose one little word that will keep me focused throughout the year.

My OLW is...

There are many areas in my life that I would like to focus on nurturing this coming year. My relationship with God. My littles. And my husband. My growth as a mom, wife, daughter, sister, and teacher. Patience. Love. Photography and this little blog.

I also know that I need to nurture myself..mind, spirit, and body.

Easier said than done...but I'll definitely try.

There is something very special about the word nurturing..to me..it means slowing down, simplifying, and really taking the time to know the difference between the important things in life...and the trivial stuff. It means letting go...and enjoying the moment.

nurture~is my OLW this year.

If you want to learn more about OLW click here. Ali Edwards is the genius behind OLW...her blog is amazing...I hope you can visit her soon.

Happy New Year friends!

What will your one little word be for 2012?

A Great Sale!

2011-12-30T20:12:00.001-06:00

Hi friends!

I hope everyone is enjoying the final days of 2011...what?! Where did the year go?! Seriously! It just seems like yesterday that I was posting last year's New Year's Eve post...wow! Definitely puts things into perspective...CARPE DIEM! Seize.the.day! ;)

On another note...my friend Alisha over at The Bubbly Blonde is having a FANTABULOUS sale at both her TpT store and her TN shop.

Her new and AMAZING Playful Penguins Unit is also on sale!! It is a ginormous unit with 21 centers (both math and literacy) and 229 pages! Her centers are fabulous, differentiated, and come with a recording sheet..this unit will definitely make your January planning a breeze. Go by and visit her stores...you will be so glad you did...stock up now while the items are on sale!

Happy Shopping!

Pssst! Just as an FYI...the sale is ending tonight! So you better hurry on over there to grab your goodies..before it ends! ;)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T22:03:00.000-06:00

I hope your holiday season is filled with the love, hope, and compassion of our Lord, Jesus Christ!

From our family to yours Merry Christmas!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-12-21T22:22:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday y'all!

Here's what I'm loving on this beautiful, cold and rainy day...

I'm loving that today was my last day before winter break, it was a teacher workday and it was a very productive day!

I'm loving that I received a couple of yummy gift sets and a candle from this store.

I'm loving that I get to finish my Christmas shopping tomorrow...hopefully!

I'm loving these fabulous Pinterest finds...

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I can't wait to begin enjoying my vacations...cleaning, baking, and family time are on the agenda. :)

LOVE it!

Now go and link up with Jamie and join the fun!

What are you loving today?

WILW...on a Thursday.

2011-12-15T17:01:00.000-06:00

Ok...so my firsties have not been their angelic selves lately...I don't know if it's the excitement of the season...or if their little bodies have been invaded by some little alien forces...but ReALly?! They have been little pills! Hard as I try to keep them busy and engaged in our learning...they've been at each other's throats! Fighting and bickering..all. the. time!
Ugggh! Definitely time for a break! 3 more days to go!!

Well enough about that...here is what I'm loving on this beautiful day.

I'm loving that Christmas is just around the corner...I adore Christmas!

I'm loving that my sweet boy just turned 9 yesterday and he still believes in Santa...but most importantly he knows the REAL reason we celebrate CHRISTmas...the other day he said to me, "Mom, did you know that Jesus is the 1st gift of Christmas?" Aww...sweet boy...never forget that. :)

I'm loving that the weather has been cold enough to cuddle on the couch with a throw...and a cup of hot chocolate.

I'm loving these awesome (classroom edition) Pinterest finds...

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And I'm especially loving...that it's TGIalmostF!!! There is light at the end of the tunnel!

Go and link up with Jamie and tell us what you're loving today!

Toodles!

Blogging and Friendships

2011-12-11T10:29:00.003-06:00

Hi ya'll!

Don't you love the wonderful friendships being created in blogland? I know I do! It's great to know that there are teachers out there just as passionate and enthusiastic as I am about teaching. Sometimes it's hard to share your passion with others that are not in the teaching field...so my blog has been an outlet for me...and I LOVE it! I especially love all the wonderful teachers I have "met" through blogging. Love ya', girls!

One of my favorite bloggers is Alisha...do you all know her? If you don't...you need to go and visit her blog ASAP! You will thank me later for introducing her to you...I promise!

Alisha is the blogger over at...

She is the kindest person...has the sweetest and most giving spirit, and a fabulous personality. I adore her! And I know you will too!

She is the creator of this AMAZING Gingerbread Unit!

It is full of everything and anything you might need to teach your sweeties!

A.MA.ZING, I tell 'ya! Truly AMAZING!

You can find this unit at her TpT or TN store.

Run...don't walk to her shop right now...you won't regret purchasing this unit...it's unbelievable!

She also has some great freebies...I'm sure you won't want to miss out on! They are FAN.TAS.TIC!

and

Please go and visit her blog...and if you download her freebies or purchase her Gingerbread Unit, don't forget to give her some love...she adores comments! She truly reads every. single. comment....and responds to them too...I know that for a fact! :)

Thanks Alisha for all your help!

You fill my bucket. :)

Creative Blogs (Doodles and more!)

2011-12-10T15:58:00.003-06:00

Hey ya'll!

I hope everyone is having a great start to their weekend...I'm supposed to be out doing some Christmas shopping {gasp!}..I know! I'm not even close to being done yet! But being that it's raining and rather chilly in my neck of the woods...I decided to stay home and enjoy my day sitting on my couch, watching Netflix, and drinking hot chocolate. Yum!

One thing I wish I could do is draw and doodle...I cannot for the life of me do either one...and I am sooo insanely jealous of those people who can. Lol! While sipping on my hot cocoa and browsing the net I came across two adorable blogs...

and

Maggie and Nikki are two incredible artists! They are a mother/daughter team and both are CRAAZZY talented! I absolutely ADORE their doodles!

Nikki's blog Melonheadz Illustrating is full of super cute seasonal clipart and digital stamps. Maggie's blog is as her blog's name suggests full of All Things Girly!

Please go and visit these fabulous illustrators...you'll be amazed at all the wonderful freebies they have...cuteness galore!

I'm off to browse their blogs some more...and snag up those wonderful doodles!

Happy Saturday!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-12-07T23:09:00.000-06:00

Hi ya'll!

Happy Wednesday!

This is what I'm loving on this beautiful day...

I'm loving that it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! I LOVE this time of year!

I'm loving that I can finally start wearing sweaters, scarves, and boots.

I'm loving that I have 10 days to go before our Christmas break...but who's counting, right?

I'm loving these Pinterest finds...

What are you lovin' today?

Go and link up with Jamie...and tell us what you're lovin'!

Stay warm friends...toodles!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T21:56:00.000-06:00

For each new morning with its light,

For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Happy Thanksgiving!

from our family to yours :)

So Thankful!

2011-11-22T20:24:00.001-06:00

I certainly feel like I have been very blessed...I have a long list of things I'm soooo thankful for...but I'm going to keep it pretty simple today. The sweet ladies over at What the Teacher Wants are having a little "I'm Thankful" linky party...and I thought I would join and share my thoughts with y'all!

1. What are you most thankful for in your classroom?

My students are by far what I'm most thankful for in my classroom! They are sweet, funny, hardworking, and adorable! This has been a great year so far...and we have accomplished so many wonderful things...I am sooo proud of my little firsties! On a more superficial note..I am thankful for my document camera and projector...I use them every day...and I truly don't know what I would do without them..ha!

2. Who are you most thankful for?

Definitely my children and husband...God has blessed me with a wonderful family...they light up my life! :)

3. What 3 blogs are you most thankful for?

Ahhh....this is sooo difficult! I don't think I can narrow it down to 3...I am really thankful to these bloggers because they have really helped me to grow as a teacher. They have transformed the way I look at instruction and have helped me create fun and meaningful activities for my firsties. These ladies have inspired me to be a better teacher...and for that I am super thankful! I am so blessed to have found these fabulous blogs!

I am so thankful for sweet Abby over at The Inspired Apple...she's funny, creative, artistic, and oh so generous! She has a bubbly personality that comes across her blog...too sweet! She always has great ideas that I LOVE to implement in my own classroom! Of course my anchor charts never come out as cute as hers...but I'm learning to be a bit more cutesy with my charts! Abby is truly a super teacher!

I am sooo thankful to Rachelle over at What the Teacher Wants. Her blog was one of the 1st ones I started to follow and I LOVED everything...I remember going back and reading every single post...and downloading ALL of her freebies! Rachelle is also one of the few bloggers that ALWAYS has a nice comment for everyone. Thanks Rachelle for being so sweet and generous! You're fantabulous! ;)

Sweet Michelle over at Fabulous in First has the kindest heart and sweetest personality! I LOVE her creativity and fun activities! She is also a super teacher! Love her!

Kristen over at Ladybug's Teacher Files is so sweet and generous! I love her kind spirit and bubbly personality! And those creations....FABULOUS!

The fabulous Sarah over at First Grader...at Last! is one of the reasons I started blogging! She is creative and her activities are always darling! Thanks Sarah for being an inspiration!

and last but certainly not least is Cara over at The First Grade Parade, she has a heart made of gold! Her blog has changed the way I look at curriculum...I now know how fun it can be to teach first grade! She has the cutest activities...and is definitely an endless source of inspiration!

Thank you ladies for inspiring and challenging me to be a better teacher!

4. What guilty pleasure are you most thankful for?

Hello...my name is Gladys and I am a Pinterest-aholic! I'm definitely addicted...and need help!

5. What are you most thankful for?

I am thankful that God has blessed me with 4 wonderful and healthy children. I am thankful for my sweet husband, he is my BFF and I LOVE him with all my heart! I am thankful for my wonderful parents and in-laws (they have truly embraced me as their daughter..and for that I am so grateful!). I am thankful to my readers who leave me such sweet comments and make my days a little brighter. I am grateful to Jesus Christ who died on the cross for us, so that we could live a life full of grace here on earth. Thank you Lord for my many blessings.

I cannot forget to mention that I am also thankful for a few frivolous things..such as: Coke Zero (refreshing!), Subway's Tuna sandwich (yummo!), chocolate chip cookies (double yummo!), and of course Starbuck's coffee! Love!

Okay...so that was a loooong post...but thanks for sticking with me. ;) Now go and link up with Rachelle and Natalie and tell us what you're thankful for!

Have a blessed week everyone!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-11-16T19:42:00.001-06:00

Hey all!

Happy Wednesday!

Here is what I'm loving on this beautiful day...

I'm loving that Breaking Dawn is only 1 day away...and I have tickets to the midnight show!!!

I'm sooooo excited...I can't wait!!!

I'm loving that my Thanksgiving break starts on Friday at 3:30 p.m.....wooohoo!

I soooo need that mini vacation!

I'm loving that my brother is coming home from Boston...and will be down here for 2 whole weeks! I miss that man dearly...and can't wait to spend time with him!

I'm loving these Pinterest finds:

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What are you lovin' today?

Link up with Jamie and join the fun!

Toodles!

Classroom Update

2011-11-12T20:03:00.000-06:00

My Firsties have been working soooo hard...all while having a blast learning...thanks to my bloggie friends and their fantabulous ideas! Seriously...what would I do without you guys?!

A couple of weeks ago we learned all about pumpkins...we described, charted and sequenced the lifecycle of a pumpkin...here is the one picture I took...sad I know...but I've been terrible about taking pictures! Ugggh!

We also read these books to learn more about our Veterans...my kiddos were in awe at how brave they are and how much our service men and women sacrifice for our freedom...I think they have a new found respect for our military families.

Of course after reading all about our Veterans we had to do some writing...

My veteran was inspired by Cara at The First Grade Parade. Love that girl! She always has FABULOUS ideas!

Isn't first grade writing just adorable?! Love those little soldiers!

My darlings have also been learning about skip counting by 2's, 5's, and 10's...when I saw this post from Ms. Simoneaux at First Grade Fresh I knew we had to do this activity...so stinkin' cute! My kiddos loved it!

I'll leave you with a sneak peak of our soon to be pie graph...I can't wait for next week!

Well that's it...hope everyone is enjoying their weekend!

Until next time...toodles!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-11-09T20:43:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday ya'll!

Today I'm linking up with Jamie for WILW.

I'm loving that today is my anniversary...we had a quiet evening at home...some t.v. watching, some Chinese takeout...it was perfect!

I'm loving that this week is flying by...and you know what that means, right?! Soon we'll be out for our Thanksgiving break! Woohoo!

I'm loving these Pinterest finds:

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I'm loving my new clipart from KPM Doodles

Aren't these teddy bears so stinkin' cute?!

That's all I have for today folks...

What are you loving today?

Favorite November Books

2011-11-06T15:35:00.001-06:00

I can't believe we only have 2 weeks left before our Thanksgiving break! Where did the time go?! Not that I'm complaining or anything...but I don't know if I'll have time to read all of my favorite November books or finish all those cutie ideas all my bloggie friends have given me...

I. NEED. MORE. TIME!!

Oh well...I'll just do what I can...I'm sure my Firsties will have fun even if we don't get to finish everything that's on my list of activities.

On to the books...here is the loooong list of favorites.

And last but certainly not least...my all time favorite Thanksgiving book...if you don't have this book...I recommend you get it...it's such a sweet story.

What are your favorite November books?

Drum Roll Please....

2011-10-23T09:32:00.000-05:00

Alysia please email me so that I can put you in contact with Shelley and you can receive your AWESOME goodies!

Thank you all for participating in this giveaway...for those of you who did not win...don't forget Shelley is having a sale on her Mental Math Strategy Collection. You can visit her TpT store by clicking here.
Don't forget to also visit Shelley's fabulous blog Teaching in the Early Years...you'll find sooo many resources and freebies...you'll be glad you stopped by.

Thank you Shelley for sponsoring this giveaway...it was SO. MUCH. FUN!!
Oh...and maybe you can send us Texans some of your cold Canadian weather...it was 86 degrees here in my neck of the woods...and it's almost November! Uggghh! Oh well...maybe it'll get cold sometime soon...hopefully before Christmas.

Have a happy Sunday everyone!!
Toodles!

Happy Saturday!

2011-10-22T10:46:00.000-05:00

Hey ya'll Happy Saturday!

I hope everyone is having a FABULOUS weekend!

Yesterday marked the end of the 1st 9 weeks of school and thus the end of the 1st quarter...it went by in a flash I tell 'ya! I know that the 2nd quarter will go by even faster with all the activities going on in 1st grade..pheeeew! I'm out of breath just thinking about it!

So this weekend will be a busy one...catching up on grades and report cards, and getting lesson plans ready for the next two weeks. But I can't do all that work without having a little fun with my family first! ;)

Don't forget to enter Shelley's great giveaway it ends tonight...you may do so by clicking here.

The winner will be announced tomorrow morning.

Good luck!

P.S. My 'lil ole blog was nominated as a Top 25 Teacher Mom Blog...I'd really appreciate it if you voted for me...pretty please, with a cherry on top? Thank you!

Click here to vote.

Giveaway! (and a Freebie!)

2011-10-19T20:03:00.000-05:00

Hey ya'll don't you love the weather now..crisp and clean in the early morning...and in the low 80s by the afternoon? It's finally cooled down a bit here in southern Texas...and boy, oh boy...did we need cooler temps! Soooo glad I can finally wear my long sleeve blouses in the morning now! It was actually 48 degrees this morning and it felt A.MA.ZING! Can't wait for more days like these...I'm definitely keeping my fingers crossed!

So...in celebration of cooler temps here in toasty Texas...my sweet Canadian friend Shelley Gray has offered to do a giveaway on my little 'ole blog...don't 'ya love that?! I certainly do!

Shelley Gray authors the blog Teaching in the Early Years and oh. my. word...it is FABULOUS! If you haven't been there you need to get over there ASAP! She offers so many resources, teaching tips and even has some great videos to explain her mental math strategies and how she organizes her learning centers. Like I said, FAB.U.LOUS!

Shelley has been so generous in offering to giveaway all six addition units from her Mental Math Strategy Collection. The set includes the following units: "Counting On", "Doubles", Doubles Plus One", "Making Ten", "Making Multiples of Ten", and "Front End Addition".

Doesn't that sound AWESOME?!?

Shelley is an awesome teacher and mommy...and her TpT resources are fantastic!

Each unit in her Mental Math Strategy Collection consists of everything that is needed to teach the strategy in full, including independent seatwork or partner activities, centers, and whole-class kinesthetic learning activities. All of this wrapped up in 6 addition units...couldn't have asked for more!

And as if that's not enough...Shelley has made a sampler pack of these units just for you! Anyone who enters this giveaway is a winner!! Woohoo! Thank you, Shelley!

Sampler Pack

Okay...so I know you want to enter this amazing giveaway...here's how to do it...

1. Follow Shelley's blog Teaching in the Early Years

2. Follow Shelley's TpT Store

3. "Like" Shelley's FB page

Leave a seperate comment for each entry...for 3 chances to win.

(As always you must be a Teaching in High Heels follower to win)

This giveaway will end on Saturday, October 22, at midnight.

The winner will be announced on Sunday, October 23.

Good luck everyone!

Toodles!

The End of Molasses Classes

2011-10-15T19:42:00.000-05:00

I'm sure everyone has heard of Ron Clark..he's the author of

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and

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in 2001 he received Disney's Teacher of the Year Award, he was also Oprah Winfrey's pick as her "Phenomenal Man". Ron Clark is a remarkable educator who founded the Ron Clark Academy and is truly making a difference in the field of education.

In his newest book The End of Molasses Classes he gives parents and teachers inspirational tidbits that will help us grow smarter and healthier children. I LOVE the fact that he has dedicated this book not only to educators but also to our children's 1st teachers...their parents!

I have recently finished reading this book...and I would like to take a moment to reflect on the parts that have impacted me the most.

I truly believe in Ron's 12th solution: Set the tone for a love of learning.

As teachers we need to instill that love of learning in our children. We need to be the model student and let them know that just because we are the teacher does it mean that we have stopped learning...we will never stop learning! I love, love this quote from his book, "the real lesson we need to teach our children is that the man who can actually find the answers to any questions presented to him is the true genius." Doesn't that make a whole lot of sense!?! We do not need to be a walking encyclopedia and know every answer to every question...especially not in today's high-tech world. What we do need to know is HOW to find the answers to our questions...LOVE it!

I would highly recommend reading this book...it is full of inspiring stories and extraordinary advice for both parents and teachers...advice that if followed will make us a great role model in the lives of our children.

Thank you, Mr. Clark...for writing such an AWESOME book!

P.S. TBA is hosting a book study...feel free to drop by and join in the discussion!

Disclaimer: I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review and opinion. The opinions expressed in this post are my own and have not been influenced by the company or the free product provided.

Learning is Fun!

2011-09-25T09:46:00.001-05:00

It's been a very busy past couple of weeks...my cute firsties have been learning sooo much and having so much fun! Here are a few random pictures of our learning....

First...we celebrated Mexico's Independence Day on the 16 de septiembre...

my kiddos were so proud to learn more about their heritage.

We created a circle map as a class...then they created their individual circle map. So cute!

We also learned about our Constitution, we watched the School House Rock~Preamble video...so fun!

We read this book...

Then my Firsties came up with their our own Class Constitution...with a little guidance from the teacher of course! They were thrilled about having to sign it and make it official.

We also learned about 9/11 and made some little flags...to show our patriotism.

In science, my Firsties have been busy learning about plants and insects.

Finally...in reading my Firsties have been learning about the sequence of events...we created this little anchor chart to remind us about our learning.

Pheeewww! There has been a lot of learning going on!

Well...that's it for today...

Happy fall ya'll!

Toodles!

Inside My School Bag

2011-09-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

As I was browsing my Google Reader today...I came across Abby's What's Inside Your School Bag? Linky Party...I've been looking at everyone's bags...and they are oh so cute...love those 31 bags...too bad I don't know anyone who sells those around here...but maybe that's a good thing? Ha!

Okay...so here is what's inside my bag....

I've had my bag for a couple of years...I love that it zips up all the way around so that nothing falls out...even when it occasionally tips over...due to it being overstuffed. Does that ever happen to anyone? Uggghhh...hate it when that happens!

Here is my teacher planner from Lakeshore, this is really for me because we use a program called Eduphoria Forethought to turn in lesson plans to our principal.
I love my writing portfolio from Doodle Bugs Paper, Kacey does a great job with all her products..they are adorable! I also have a personal planner that I carry in my bag...although it's my personal agenda..school stuff tends to sneak in there too...would love to get an Erin Condren life planner, but I just can't justify spending $50 on it...not at the moment....oh well.

My teacher binder, a couple of folders with various things, mostly printables and some RTI stuff. My colorful pencil bag with Flair Pens, sharpies, pencils, scissors, Post-Its and other random stuff...like gum.

A couple of printables inside one of the folders...a math game the lovely Cara from The First Grade Parade created, a making words activity Ana from Ingles 360 came up with...And last but not least Kristen from Ladybug's Teacher Files Word Detectives printable.

Thanks ladies...these are way cute!
What would I do without my bloggie friends?!

Some books that I want to revisit...but with life being so ridiculously busy...I just haven't had a chance...so they've been living in my bag...for a few weeks now. Maybe sometime soon...life will slow down a bit...hopefully!

Some random stuff I found in one of the pockets inside my bag...my elf lip gloss, more Post-Its, some letter stickers from Creative Teaching Press...love their stuff! Especially their Dots on Chocolate and Dots on Turquoise line...it's uber cute! Some googly eyes, calendar numbers for a math game, cupcakes from Dollar Tree, and my Spanish High Frequency Word list from Senderos.

This was so much fun!
I loved peeking into your teacher bags!
Thanks Abby, for hosting this party!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-09-21T17:01:00.001-05:00

Hey ya'll...Happy Wednesday!

Today I'm linking up with Jamie for WILW.

This is what I'm loving on this beautiful Wednesday....

I'm loving that it's almost the weekend....woohoo!

I'm loving this time of year...if only it looked like this around here...{sigh!}

{source}

I'm loving these books right now...

I'm loving that this movie will be at the theater soon...and like a giddy teenager I cannot wait!

And last but certainly not least I'm loving these great Pinterest finds...

{source}

So what are you loving today?

Scholastic's Dollar Deals

2011-09-17T19:21:00.001-05:00

Hey ya'll...Happy Saturday!

Just stopping by to let ya'll know about Scholastic's AMAZING Dollar Deals...

I just got these fabulous e-books and I can't wait to use them with my Firsties!

I got a total of 10 books for FREE!

Yeap...free...using the code 10THANKS...

hop on over to

and get your e-books now...their dollar deals will end on September 20th...happy book shopping!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-09-14T17:45:00.000-05:00

Here's what I'm loving on this beautiful Wednesday...

I'm loving my sweet little family...love to get home and relax with my kiddos after a long day at work and school...at the moment we're loving these characters...hilarious!

I'm loving that the weekend is almost here...I have to catch up on some things at work...and I'm excited to be able to do it this weekend...from the comfort of my own couch.

I'm loving my sweet little class...we're back to 15...thank goodness! I do have all Spanish speaking students...which means I have to create everything from scratch...as there are absolutely no cute resources in Spanish. Anyone out there in blogland want to collaborate with me on creating some fantastic Spanish resources?! Lol!

I'm loving these great Pinterest finds....

{source}

and last but not least...I'm loving the start of football season...

{source}

So...what are you loving today?

Go and link up with Jamie for WILW!

Toodles!

September 11...I Remember.

2011-09-11T14:13:00.000-05:00

I remember that day as if it were yesterday.

I remember exactly what I was doing and how I felt when our great nation came under attack.

I was at home, taking care of my little one when I turned on my TV and saw Katie Couric trying to explain the events unfolding in NYC.

I remember being confused, in shock...not fully realizing what had happened.

Then, I saw the 2nd plane hit the South Tower of the WTC.

That image will stay with me forever.

I felt terrified, sad, and heartbroken.

How could this be happening?

Who could possibly do this?

The sadness was overwhelming and for a long time afterwards I was fearful of what would happen next.

On that infamous day...

September 11, 2001

life as we knew it changed forever.

Lives were lost, heroes were born, and our tenacious spirit triumphed.

Our beautiful country united...Americans came together stronger than I had ever seen before.

On this day there was a sense of unity in our broken spirits.

And a feeling of hope in our broken hearts.

There was solidarity, there was strength...and the American spirit prevailed.

One nation, under God, Indivisible.

In memory of those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can enjoy our freedom.

Thank you.

Top Ten...Wow!

2011-09-08T18:08:00.001-05:00

Oh bloggie friends...ya'll are too sweet and you definitely fill my bucket!
I absolutely LOVE blogging...and it's an honor to receive a Top 10 Award.

Thank you, Liz and Janine...you made my day!!

Please go and visit their fabulous blogs... First Grade Frenzy and Faithful in First...these ladies are super sweet and creative!

As you all probably know...I follow too many blogs...and to tell the truth I couldn't possibly choose only 10 to receive this award...so please if you are a teacher and a blogger...then you are AWESOME...and should be awarded a Top 10 award! Thanks for being so inspiring!!

Toodles!

What I'm Loving Wednesday!

2011-08-31T18:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday, y'all!
Here is what I'm loving on this gorgeous day...

I'm loving that I will be having a 3 day weekend soon...wooohooo for Labor Day!

I'm loving that September is here...and I'm hoping with all my heart that we will get some relief from this heat soon! You Texans out there know what I'm talking about, right?!

I'm loving the sweet hugs I get from my little one when I get home. Sweet, sweet girl!

I'm loving these great Pinterest finds...

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So...what are you loving today?

Don't forget to link up with Jamie for WILW!

Toodles...and enjoy your evening!

Classroom Pics...Finally!

2011-08-28T10:09:00.001-05:00

Hey y'all! I know I have been a little MIA lately...but it has all been due to the 1st week of school...you know how that goes! Anywho...the 1st week is behind us now...and it was a great one at that...love my new batch of kiddos! They are sweet and polite, and oh so cute! Hope it continues throughout the year!
So...remember when I said I would only have 15 kids...yeah, well it didn't turn out that way during registration...not quite. Our school is experiencing growing pains..and I now have 23 students...I'm actually the one with the smallest class, the other 2 first grade teachers are both at 25 students! Yikes! Hopefully we will get a new teacher soon...this way I'll go back to my original 15...so keep your fingers crossed please!
Due to having this many kiddos...I had to make some small changes in my classroom...here it is for your enjoyment!

Library area...the bulletin board will be my Spanish Word Wall.

Love my little tree...and the Good Readers sign from Christie.

Word Work area...and my little owl painting my lovely daughter made for me.

Another owl painting.

The chunk wall is located in the Word Work area.

Computer area.

Poetry and Fluency area.

Student cubbies, Social Studies, Math, and Science WW, and classroom rules.

Word Center pocket chart...easel. and whole group area. Love my new brown rug!

Calendar on white board.

Pocket charts for guided reading groups and class schedule. Yea...I need labels.

Love the Dr. Seuss quote...and my little Diet Coke sign...found somewhere on blogland.

If it's yours please let me know so that I can give you credit.

Listening center and my little fabric banner inspired by Abby over at The Inspired Apple...click here for her no-sew tutorial.

Writing center and Focus Wall.

Baskets where students will turn in their work.

Crayon wreath...found on Pinterest.

My bulletin board outside classroom.

1st grade bulletin board in main hallway.

Pheeewww...that was a bunch of pictures!

I'll be linking up at

Happy Sunday...toodles!

Teacher Talk Tuesday

2011-08-23T21:18:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday!
It's time to link up to Teacher Talk Tuesday on Blog Hoppin'. Here are my tidbits of insight for new teachers:

1. Find an organization system that works for you. It may be as simple or as sophisticated as you want it to be, as long as it makes life easier for you...if it doesn't make your life easier...then you probably won't use it.

2. Procedures, procedures, procedures! It is soooo important to take the time to establish your procedures and expectations at the beginning of the school year...yes, it takes time...yes, it may be dull...but believe me it will ALL be worth it in the end! I'm not guaranteeing smooth sailing all year long...but your "bad" days will definitely be less...if you have good procedures in place!

3. Document everything...I can't emphasize this enough...documentation will come in very handy at all those meetings we can't seem to get away from...

4. Praise, praise, praise!!! And LOVE your babies! Sometimes your compliment will be the only one they get all day long!

5. Take time for yourself...as teachers, we always have work to do, there is always that never ending list, always something to grade, or games to make, etc. etc. Please don't forget about yourself...yes your students need you...but how are they going to get the best of you...if you don't take care of yourself? Just something to think about.

Okay...that's it peeps...just some tidbits I wanted to share with y'all. If you want to read the great advice from some awesome teachers head over to Blog Hoppin'.

Toodles!

Meet the Teacher

2011-08-22T18:57:00.001-05:00

Hey y'all! Today I'm participating over at Blog Hoppin' for Meet the Teacher Monday.

***

Tell us a little something about you....

My name is Gladys, I am a 1st grade teacher, mother of four married to the most wonderful man...my life may be a little crazy sometimes, but nonetheless I absolutely LOVE it!

How long have you been teaching?

This is my 6th year teaching in my current school district...I taught Kinder for 3 years before graduating to 1st, and I have to say that 1st is my absolute favorite! Yes, kinder kids are little and cute...but I love, love, those little firsties! These kiddos are genuinely interested in learning, they are inquisitive, fun, and fabulous! I am always floored by the progress they make in 1st grade...I'm telling 'ya it's absolutely amazing!

You might not know...

I love to dance! As a child I took ballet and in my teens I was on my high school dance team...I LOVE to dance...not only is it fun..it's also a great way to get your exercise on and stay in shape. I honestly wish I had more time to take a dance class or even Zumba...how fun would that be?!

What are you looking most forward to this school year?

I am really looking forward to building a strong community of learners. I want my new firsties to love reading as much as I do...I want them to be life long readers and learners, and to enjoy being a student in my classroom.

What do you need to improve?

I have a lot of things that I would like to improve...but this year my main focus is math. I tend to be more literacy inclined...I love, love, love reading and writing and could teach those two subjects ALL DAY LONG! For me, loving math has always been a bit of a struggle...but I am really going to try harder this year. I really am. Promise!

What teaching supplies can you *not* live without?

I couldn't live without my Scotch laminator, Flair pens, and Mr. Sketch markers. My little heart also does cartwheels at the sight of cute notebooks, binders and sticky notes. Oh and I have to say that this little list would not be complete if I did not mention my crazy addiction for books...I totally *puffy* heart my books...they are definitely something I could not live without!

***

So that's it for me my lovelies...it's now your turn to go link up at Blog Hoppin' for Meet the Teacher Monday. Have fun!

Toodles!

What I'm Loving Wednesday!

2011-08-17T18:59:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday, y'all!
These are a few things that I'm loving today:

I'm loving that professional development days are almost over...and that soon I will meet my Firsties.

I'm loving looking at old pictures and remembering good times...love those kiddos... but they are growing up way too fast! {Sniff, sniff!}

I'm loving this sweet little baby...I will definitely be missing the lazy days of summer.

I'm loving these awesome pens...they are definitely my favorite!

I'm loving my Scotch Thermal Laminator...especially right now, when I'm laminating a gazillion things for my classroom.

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I'm loving this chalkboard frame...adorable!

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And last but not least I'm loving this Very Hungry Caterpillar...it is oh.so.cute...and I bet it would look fantastic in a classroom!

So...what are you loving today?

Don't forget to link up with Jamie for WILW.

Toodles!

Happy New Year!

2011-08-17T00:18:00.001-05:00

Hi y'all!
OMG...It's been a tough first couple of days at work...with going to bed at around 1:00 "ish" and then having to wake up at 6:00a.m....enduring all day PD meetings...it seems I'm even more tired than when the actual kiddies are in class! Pheewww...EXHAUSTING I tell 'ya! I honestly can't wait to get started on the new year with my new class...it's going to be FAN.TAS.TIC!
Ok...so enough about me...I'm just here to tell you that I hope you all have a fantastic, wonderful, awesome, fabulous, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious..first day of school!!!
Toodles!!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-08-10T17:45:00.001-05:00

Hey y'all!
I hope everyone is having a Happy Wednesday!
Today I'm linking up with Jamie over at This Kind of Love for What I'm Loving Wednesday.
Here's what I'm loving today...

I'm loving that my classroom is almost ready...and I won't be going back until Monday.

(Pictures to come very soon...I pinky promise!)

I'm loving that this year I will be teaching a transitional bilingual classroom and that I only have 15 students. (Love small classes!)

I'm loving these Pinterest finds...and can't wait to create them.

I'm loving these uber creative bulletin boards.

{source}

And last but certainly not least I'm loving these fabulous B2S outfits...comfy and cute...doesn't get better than that! ;)

{source}

So that's it friends...this was my first WILW...and I LOVED it! So. Much. Fun!

If you're interested go and link up with Jamie...I'm sure you too will {puffy heart} it!

What are you loving today?

Classroom Rules

2011-07-28T20:46:00.000-05:00

Although I liked my classroom rules banner last year...I couldn't help but recreate them in these uber cute frames. I was inspired by Ashley over at the Polka Dot Patch, she's super creative and oh so organized! Be sure to visit her for some wonderful inspiration. So...what do y'all think?

I'm all about sharing...so if you like them...you can find them here. Oh and please leave me a comment telling me about your classroom rules. Happy Thursday!

Cute Blogs, Creative Ideas

2011-07-27T09:50:00.002-05:00

I've been loving all the awesome ideas out there in blogland for back to school...so I thought I would share some of these fabulous blogs with some ridiculously cute ideas.

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Love these sight words chant sticks! They're colorful, sassy lookin'...and the container is caauuute! Awesome job, Jennie! Go over to her blog The Hawk's Nest and be inspired. Oooh...I forgot to tell you that not only is she a teacher, she's also a crafter...I'm tellin' you, this girl is good! Go ahead and browse her Etsy Store, you'll find some really sweet things...I have my eye on those chalkboard mason jars...too cute!

Have you ever been to Farley's blog, Oh' Boy Fourth Grade...if you haven't please go now! Okay...maybe you can finish reading this post and then head on over there. This lady has some of the cutest printables I have ever seen! She is amazingly talented and shares that talent with everyone on her blog. She is also super generous...you can always find lots of freebies on her site. Right now she's hosting a ginormous giveaway for some fabulous graphics from ScrapDelicious...go over and enter...or not...'cause I really want to win this one!

Isn't this perfect for Guided Reading or Reader's Workshop? I found it while bloghopping..the creator is Cindy from Mrs. Gilchrist's Class. She has this reader's toolbox for sale on TpT..and wait for it, it's only $1! Wow, can you believe that?! This little item is already on my wish list...I'm just kind of waiting to decide what else I should purchase with it..if you're interested in getting it for your class click here. Cindy also has some freebies on her blog that are uber cute.

Like this cover for your absentee folders.

Or these Power Tower labels for Teacher Tipster's fabulous game.

I really like how this writing center is neatly organized...love the organizer for the writing supplies. Reagan is so creative and organized...and her classroom is beautiful! She has the most precious reading barn inside her class...a.ma.zing! You can find her and all her wonderful ideas at Tunstall Times.

Reagan just created this wonderful packet of stationary for her Writer's Workshop...and I can't wait to get my hands on it..I'm sure it's out of this world! Check out her Teachers Notebook store for some more cuteness.

So there you go...cute blogs, wonderful ideas, fabulous teachers!

Digital Learners

2011-07-19T08:48:00.000-05:00

I went to a district training not too long ago and the presenter showed us this video. I thought I would share it with you all....as food for thought. Enjoy!

Blog Mixer Linky Party

2011-07-14T18:29:00.000-05:00

I LOVE linky parties! And Yearn to Learn is hosting a blog mixer...how fun is that?! Super! So...here's how the party rolls:

1. Find a blogger who is a "New Kid on the Blog".
(Someone who has blogged 2 months or less and has less than 200 followers).
2. Post a blogger in your same grade level.
3. Post a blogger in a different grade level.
4. Find a cute blog button and post it.

Okay...let's partay!

1. New Kid on the Blog: First Grade Glitter and Giggles...she has some great stuff on her blog and is so cute.
2. Same Grade Level: Doodle Bugs Teaching...Kacey is so creative...and oh so sweet.
3. Different Grade Level: Sneaker Teacher...she teaches Kindergarten...and was one of the first teacher bloggers I started following. Love her!
4. Button Cuteness: 1st Grade with Miss Snowden...simple and sweet.

It's your turn to go link up at Yearn to Learn...have fun everyone! Toodles! ♥♥♥

Journeys' Daily Fix-Its

2011-07-07T16:00:00.000-05:00

I was so inspired by the work of Mrs. Magee at First Grade Brain and Laura at First Grade Fundamentals that I thought I would try my hand at creating some Daily Fix-Its for my reading series, Houghton Mifflin Journeys.

Click here to get it.

This is only a sample. You'll be able to find the rest of the Unit 1 Daily Fix-Its for free at my TpT Store later on today.

I ♥ Pinterest!

2011-06-30T18:32:00.000-05:00

♥♥♥LOVE♥♥♥

It is one of the most fun ways to organize your creative bookmarks. Pinterest is a series of inspiration boards, just waiting to be filled up with inspiring photos. Pinterest has boards that are organized thematically waiting for you to add pins. A pin is basically a picture that links to your inspiration...whether it be a beautiful picture of a home...or maybe something inspiring for your classroom.

My Pinterest Boards will let you know a little about me...you'll find out that I'm a teacher who LOVES a beautiful classroom and creative ideas. You will also find out that I ♥ reading and that I'm in love with pretty things. So much fun...I tell 'ya!

To get started on Pinterest you need to request an invitation. Since the site is still in beta, you can’t simply join...I know...bummer. But don't be too sad you do have a few options. To request an invite you can either visit the front page and simply enter your email and wait. Or, you can find someone you know with a Pinterest account and ask them for an invitation. This is most definitely the fastest method to get a Pinterest account! If you want to join the fun and start pinning right away you can certainly email me for an invite. I'm sure that you'll LOVE Pinterest...so now that you know about this fantastic site...I really gotta go now...I need to go find some more inspiration and start pinning!

Winner!

2011-06-29T22:38:00.000-05:00

The winner of the SUNsational Summer Giveaway is:

#114

Kinderpond

who said:

I follow all of the TPT stores :)

Congratulations, Jennifer!

Please email me within 48 hours to claim your prize.

I want to thank all the lovely ladies that sponsored this FANTASTIC giveaway!

Please be sure to visit their blogs...and give them a little love!

First Grade Factory

Mrs. Freshwater's Class

First Grade Fundamentals

F is for First Grade

LessonPlanSOS

The Lesson Plan Diva

Ingles360

Last Day for Giveaway!!

2011-06-26T10:18:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to enter my SUNsational Summer Giveaway for a chance to win 10 fabulous free products from some of my favorite bloggers!

Today is the last day to enter!!

SUNsational Summer Giveaway!

2011-06-22T19:08:00.001-05:00

Hey ya'll!

I hope everyone is having a FABULOUS Summer...I know that I am...and it'll be even more relaxing once summer school is over in two days! Woohoo!

So in celebration of summer (and the glorious days that lie ahead!) I am hosting a SUNsational Summer Giveaway and let me tell 'ya, you are in for a real treat! Seriously!

So...are you ready?

Ya'll...seven, yes seven, A.MA.ZING bloggers are sponsoring the biggest giveaway I have EVER hosted! Isn't that FANtastic!? I mean who doesn't LOVE giveaways?! Really!

So here it is...a SUNsational Summer Giveaway!

Alicia from First Grade Factory is giving away two terrific products...her Reading Comprehension Posters and her Teacher Talk Cards. They are absolutely AMAZING!

Melissa from Mrs. Freshwater's Class is giving away her B³C (brown bag book club). Awesome!

Sweet Laura from First Grade Fundamentals is giving away her Making Words: All Year Long. Total cuteness!

Melissa from F is for First Grade is giving away her Teaching Vocabulary with Picture Books and her Jump Around Moving with Math! activities. Absolutely amazing resources!

The sweet ladies over at LessonPlanSOS are giving away their awesome Guided Reading Guru file.

Jenaya at The Lesson Plan Diva is giving away her uber cute Yummy Punctuation activity.

Ana from Ingles360 is giving away one of her terrific ebooks...a Teaching Survival Kit...just in time for Back to School.

~Update~
My bloggy friend Ana from Ingles360 is launching a Spanish curriculum...this is great news for all of the bilingual teachers out there...she just emailed letting me know that she would like to contribute this little goodie to our giveaway. Thanks Ana!

Now that you know what our SUNsational Summer Giveaway consists of here is what you have to do to enter:

1. Follow all of these ladies' FABULOUS blogs. (1 entry)

2. Follow all our TpT stores. (1 entry)

3. Follow all our Facebook pages. (1 entry)

4. Follow us on Twitter. (1 entry)

5. Post all our buttons on your blog. (1 entry)

6. Repost this giveaway on your blog. (1 entry)

7. Download and rate one of my free TpT products. (1 entry)

(Please remember that you MUST be a Teaching in High Heels follower to enter all giveaways.)

~Please leave a separate comment for each entry~

There you go...7 chances to enter this amazing giveaway!

Easy, peasy lemon squeezy, right?!

I have put the links within each person's giveaway...and you can find their buttons on their blogs. This giveaway will end on Sunday, June 26 at midnight, the winner will be announced on Monday, June 27.

Good luck everyone!

Oh...one more thing...don't forget to go by and visit these fabulous ladies...you will absolutely be amazed by their creativity...and generosity.

See ya'll later! Toodles! ♥

Lettering Delights Giveaway!

2011-06-14T21:10:00.000-05:00

Woohooo! Lettering Delights has reached 12,000 Facebook fans and they are celebrating by giving their awesome followers this FABULOUS bundle for FREE! Isn't that absolutely terrific?!? Makes you want to go dancing around chanting freebie, freebie, freebie! Thanks LD!

Click here to go to Lettering Delights' site now!

♥♥♥

TBA Video

2011-06-10T22:21:00.000-05:00

Tamara did an amazing job with this TBA video. I just love those cute kids at 1:05...I may be a little biased...because I'm their mama...but nonetheless...aren't they precious?!

It was so much fun to see all of the TBA authors and their families.

Thanks, Tamara!

Sweet Summer

2011-06-05T23:18:00.000-05:00

May was definitely a ~~bad~~ terrible blogging month...with end of year activities, curriculum writing, and summer sports beginning..I was in a non-inspiring kind of mood..but never fear...June is here! Wooohooo! And you know what that means, right? Summer is (finally!) here...regardless of what the calendar states...we ALL know that June=Summer. So in the spirit of celebrating our new found freedom...here are my summer plans.

1. Spend lots of time playing with my littles.
2. Clean up and redecorate the boys' bedroom.
3. Read, read, read! (Love my new Nook Color!)
4. Go to all of my kids' practices and baseball/softball games.
5. Yard Sales! (Enough said.)
6. Paint some neglected furniture.
7. Become a good blogger. (I'll really try...pinky promise.)
8. Make some new classroom activities to go with our Journeys reading series.
9. Organize.
10. Oh yeah...and teach summer school! GATE kids...here we go!

So...what are your summer plans? Do you have a to do list? Or will you just go where the wind takes you? I would love to know! Toodles! ♥

Budget Cuts in Education

2011-05-25T18:57:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone! Today I received a very interesting e-mail from Carly Shields. She is with BreakThru Radio in NYC and today they are featuring an interesting, original video on the budget cuts in NYC. They recently visited a teachers rally and asked real New York City teachers how they felt about all these budget cuts.

I know that in my district there is a hiring freeze...noone has lost their job yet, but we have been told that our budget will be affected severely. Other districts near us have already laid off many teachers. It is so sad.

How do you feel about the budget cuts affecting our teachers and students across the nation? Please leave a comment letting me know your thoughts on this issue.

New Blog (and a Giveaway!)

2011-05-20T17:15:00.000-05:00

Hi friends...just dropping by to let you all know about this great new blog out there Kreative in Kinder. The author of this blog...is oh so very sweet...her name is Crystal Radke and she is a Kindergarten teacher who is just starting on her blogging journey. She is super creative and has made some fabulous units that will eventually be sold on TpT...but for now she is happy giving them away! Isn't that super sweet?! Thank you, Mrs. Radke!

The first unit she is giving away is her Ocean/Summer Unit...it's absolutely perfect for this time of year...and oh. so. adorable! Click here to see a preview of the unit...you are going to LOVE it!

Ok...so to qualify for Mrs. Radke's first giveaway here is what you have to do:

1. Become a follower of her blog Kreative in Kinder.

2. Leave her a comment on one of her posts.

3. Let Mrs. Radke know of anything she could create or display on her blog for you.

Mrs. Radke will draw from the names on Monday, May 23rd. Please feel free to visit her blog and follow. (And share her site with everyone you know!)

I can't wait to see more of this super cute blog...

Thank you, Crystal for letting me know of your fabulous blog!

Have a happy Friday everyone!

Toodles! ♥

Hand Washing Rocks!

2011-05-16T19:00:00.002-05:00

Today I received an email from Alexandra, she represents Big Fuel a social media agency in NYC which in turn represents Softsoap...you know Softsoap, right? I know that I usually have a bottle of Softsoap by my kitchen sink and in the kids bathroom. Well according to Alexandra, Softsoap just released a fun educational video with a fresh perspective encouraging kids to implement healthy hand-washing habits. The video was such a huge hit that they've been getting e-mails from top mommy-bloggers saying that their children are loving the video and asking to watch it again. I do have to say that I showed the video to my own (personal) kiddos...and they were totally into it! Even my 11 year old thought it was cool! So here it is for all of you to enjoy! I think this will be a nice video to show my students when we learn about healthy habits. Thanks Alexandra for passing along this educational video to me!

Six Winners!

2011-05-09T19:06:00.000-05:00

Drum roll please...

the six winners are...(in the order they appeared on the Random Generator).

#27 Amanda

#76 Tanya

#12 Jennifer Murphine

#186 Jenny

#233 Elizabeth

#160 Christine

Ladies...please email me so that I can send you the 6 amazing activities you just won!

Thank you everyone for participating in this giveaway!

And a great big thanks goes to my bloggie friend Deedee Wills...for providing the six fabulous activities for this giveaway!
She is sooo sweet and kind...and talented to boot!
Love her!
If you didn't win (or even if you did!) please make sure to check out her blog and her TpT store. She has awesome ideas and activities...and great freebies like this subtraction game too!

Thanks again, Deedee!

Blog Makeover!

2011-05-07T21:05:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! Yes...you have come to the right place.

This is still the Once Upon a Time in First Grade blog! I just had a much deserved blog makeover. I am thrilled with my new blog design by Kristen at Ladybug's Teacher Files. She is an extraordinary person and was ever so patient with me as we worked on redesigning my blog! I think she did a FAN.TAS.TIC job!

Thanks Kristen...I absolutely adore my new blog design!

Ok..so Once Upon a Time in First Grade has a few changes coming up and I am so excited to share them you!

Teaching in High Heels- I have recently changed the title of my blog to just Teaching in High Heels...due to the fact that the 2011-2012 school year may be my last year in 1st grade for a while. Our principal believes in moving teachers to other grade levels to better understand the concept of vertical alignment...as if we could forget, right?! LOL!

Free Printables- This tab was made to help all of you access the free printables I post on my blog. I hope it is useful to all of you...and that it will help you access what you are looking for quickly.

Advertise- I will be featuring some advertising on my blog soon. This is something I have been working on..and it will probably be taking place some time in the early part of the summer...hopefully.

Please be patient as I continue to work diligently on my blog. I hope to get all the links up and running soon...my fingers are crossed!

Many, many thanks to all of you who follow my 'lil ole blog faithfully...I hope you will stick around for a long time and will continue to join me on my journey.

You truly are an inspiration!

P.S. Oh...and if all of you could do me the biggest favor and change the title of my blog on your blogroll to Teaching In High Heels and pick up my new button...woohoo! Don't you love it?!? Thank you sooo very much!

Winner, winner!

2011-05-06T20:50:00.000-05:00

Thank you, Mrs. Lofgren!

You are the winner of the Creative Teaching Press Giveaway! Woohoo! Congratulations!

You have 48 hours to contact me via e-mail...so that I can give you the information you need to get your FABULOUS prize!

Thank you everyone...for entering this great giveaway...remember you are ALL winners in my book!

A very special thanks goes to Creative Teaching Press they are an AWESOME company...and I can't wait to purchase some

for my classroom next year...turquoise is definitely a beautiful color to work with...so I'm sure it'll be fantabulous!

♥♥♥

Hip, Hip Hooray for Giveaways!

2011-05-04T19:01:00.002-05:00

Hey y'all!

I hope everyone is having a FABULOUS hump day!

And an incredible Teacher Appreciation Week...I know that all of you teachers in blogland are superb...and y'all deserve to be appreciated!

Thank you for everything you do...and share!

So now for the giveaway...I know that most of you know my sweet bloggie friend Deedee Wills...and if you all don't know her yet...y'all need to get on to her blog because she has some awesome ideas for both Kinder kiddos...and Firsties!

Well as it turns out...Deedee was very generous in offering to have a giveaway...here on my 'lil ole blog...and you know me...I'm always up for some fun giveaways!

Of course I said yes!

So here it is...

oh. my. word!

Aren't these center packets A.MA.ZING?!?

She is one talented lady!

Thank you, Deedee!

Ok...so here is what you have to do:

1. Follow Deedee's Kinder blog .

2. Follow Deedee's TpT store.

3. Follow my blog.

4. Follow my TpT store. (Yes, I have one now...but my two items are free!)

5. Blog about this giveaway.

Oh...and don't forget to post a comment for each thing you completed.

The best part of this giveaway is that sweet Deedee is letting me giveaway 6 products for 6 winners in honor of my now 600+ followers!! Can you believe it?!?

Six of you will win 6 FANTABULOUS products!

I told you she was super sweet!

So...there you have it...5 chances to enter...woohoo!

Good luck!

This giveaway will end Saturday, May 7, 2011 at 11:00 p.m. CST.

I will announce the winner on Sunday, May 8.

P.S. If you can't wait for the giveaway...just as an FYI...Deedee is having a FANTASTIC sale, click here to go to her store and fill up your shopping cart!

Toodles!

♥♥♥

Creative Teaching Press Giveaway!

2011-04-29T22:02:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone!

I hope everyone is having a FABULOUS Friday!

Wooohooo for the weekend, right?!

So I know that I have kept my little giveaway a secret long enough...well here it is...y'all don't have to wait any longer, isn't that exciting?!

I'm sure you all know of Creative Teaching Press, I mean you would have to be living under a rock for the past 40 years not to know about this company!

I mean really...if you're a teacher...then you must know about them!

This company is one of my favorite teaching companies...they have the cutest classroom decoratives...and the most amazing resources!

I'm totally in LOVE with this beautiful set of bulletin boards and decoratives...

Aren't they uber cuuute?!!

okay...enough about my wish list...let's move on...

Not too long ago...I contacted Creative Teaching Press to see if they would be willing to sponsor a little giveaway...I was literally BLOWN away when the Marketing and Trade Show Coordinator replied to my email stating that they would be delighted to take part in my giveaway!!!

Ahhhh! Isn't that FANTASTIC?!

So here is the deal...the lucky winner would win...get this....

$50 worth of CTP products...

and they get to choose whatever items their little hearts desire!

FABULOUS...if I do say so myself!

Here are the requirements to enter this awesome giveaway:

1. Like CTP on Facebook.

2. Post a little blurb on CTP's Facebook wall, telling them I sent you.

3. Follow CTP on Twitter.

4. Leave me a comment telling me what CTP product is on your wish list.

5. Follow my little blog.

{oh...and don't forget to leave me a comment after each entry!}

That's it!

Piece of cake...piece of pie...right?!

This giveaway will end Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at 11:00 CST.

I will announce the lucky winner on Thursday, May 5, 2011.

Thanks for stopping by my little blog...

Good Luck!

♥♥♥

It's My Turn...

2011-04-27T22:30:00.002-05:00

Hey y'all...I hope everyone is having an awesome Wednesday!

Today was my turn to be a substitute teacher for the FBU girls:

Check out my post here.
I'm blogging about Fact Families using these little characters:

Oh...and I have some EXCITING news!

Beginning on Friday I will be hosting random giveaways throughout the weekend...

We are CELEBRATING...600+ followers!!
Woohoo!!!
Don't miss out on some FANTASTIC giveaways this weekend!
Until then...
Toodles!
♥♥♥

600 Followers? Wow! Thank you!

2011-04-26T09:03:00.002-05:00

Oh. my. word!

When I began blogging last summer...I never thought my 'lil old blog would reach 100 followers...let alone 600! I am absolutely floored by all of you...I started blogging to keep myself accountable for the happenings in both my classroom and my home...it's a great way to document the little events happening in my life.

Thank you sooo much for being a part of it...

I ~~think~~ know blogging has made me a better teacher...I gather so much inspiration from all of you...and my firsties are definitely enjoying all of the fun activities y'all have shared with me! Thank you!!!

I know reaching this phenomenal milestone deserves another giveaway...let me see what I can come up with...and I'll let you know soon!

Toodles!

♥♥♥

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T23:24:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had a Happy Easter with their loved ones...and that you rejoiced in the resurrection of our savior!