Rain, Rain, Go Away!

Rainy days are such a bummer.  Especially when you don't have a hood on your raincoat.  I don't know why anyone would make a raincoat without a hood, but I have have two that don't!  My all time favorite raincoat cam in the mail a few days ago.  The Ash City Climate Core365 Jacket is from Shopletpromos.com and is fabulous!  Click the picture below to see it on their website.

It zips and snaps in all the right places and kept me completely dry during our last rainy Tennessee day.  The jacket is lightweight and not at all bulky.  It is by far my favorite raincoat.  You can choose from black, red, navy, blue, and white and comes in any size from small to 5x.  In my opinion, the jacket sizes run on the small side, so if you are on the fence about the size you need, go up, not down.  Want custom artwork on your jacket?  That can be done!   This is a promotional item, so a minimum of 12 jackets must be ordered.  Have your school or company's name, logo, or mascot embroidered on them.  What a great gift for employees or coworkers!   Shoplet also has every office supply you could need {HERE} all at great prices.  

New Teacher Blog Tuesday & Freebies!

Every Tuesday I introduce my readers to two new bloggers.  If you would like to be featured, email me at dml8609@gmail.com

Today’s first blogger is Colleen from

1.             Name of blog and link:

Fun andFearless in First

2.          Tell us about your blog and why you started it.

In the spring of last year I discovered the wonderful world of blogging and Teachers Pay Teachers.  I must have been living under a rock before then!  I found so many useful ideas and felt so connected to the blogs I was reading.  I begin implementing new ideas in my classroom and thinking about teaching in a whole new way.  Over the summer I decided to tackle the task of creating my own blog to share my teaching ideas and experiences.  My sister came up with the name Fun and Fearless in First.  It describes my classroom perfectly!

3.            Tell us a little about your teaching background.

I didn’t start out as a teacher.  I went to Syracuse University for my undergrad and got a degree in Communications.  I worked in advertising in Manhattan and Rochester, NY for four years before deciding to get my teaching degree.  It was the BEST decision I have ever made!  I have been teaching now for seven years.  I’ve taught in three districts and two states (Maryland and New York).  I have taught grades 1, 2, 3, and 4.  First grade is by far my favorite and where my heart is!

4.            What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

Fearless (Taylor Swift)

Don’t Stop Believing (Journey)

Semi-Charmed Life (Third Eye Blind)

Knee Deep (Zac Brown Band)

5.           What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?

Ooh this is a tough one!  The hardest thing I’ve ever done was probably making the decision to change careers to teaching.  It was so scary to leave what I knew (advertising) for something completely different.  I was afraid that I would start teaching and perhaps not like it.  Of course, that did not happen at all.  As soon as I entered my first classroom I knew I was home.  J

6.           What’s your favorite TV show?

Scandal – I can’t get enough of that Olivia Pope!

7.           What is your favorite item of clothing and why?

My Victoria’s Secret PINK lounge pants.  I have about five pairs in various styles and colors.  I absolutely LOVE lounge pants of any kind, and they are the first thing I put on when I get home from school!

8.           Number of candles that appeared on your last birthday cake?

32

9.           What was the last book you read? What are you going to read next?

Look Again by Lisa Scottoline

I’d like to read Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks next.  

10.        What was the last thing that you ate that you really shouldn’t of?

Skittles today at work… it’s not my fault, I was in the midst of report cards!  I NEEDED them, I truly did!!!

11.         Give us some links- Twitter, Pinterest, Teacher’s Pay Teachers, Facebook, a free teaching item etc.

TPT Store:  http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Fun-And-Fearless-In-First

Freebie – Math Workshop Rotation Board:  http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Workshop-Rotation-Board-Fun-and-Fearless-in-First

The next feature teacher is Jacque from

1.            Name of blog and link:

Prater’sPractices  

2.          Tell us about your blog and why you started it.

My blog is for any teacher and any grade level to share and collaborate with other teachers across the country. I love to share ideas and resources with other teachers. I was so inspired by all the wonderful blogs out there and wanted to join this community of teachers that are so great at sharing and supporting each other. I hope that my blog inspires someone else to try something new and step out of their comfort zone just like many of the blogs I read have inspired me.

3.            Tell us a little about your teaching background.

This is my 6^th year teaching in the great state of Texas! My journey has not always been easy and sometimes I thought I wanted to give up but then one student tells me how much I mean to them or a parent thanks me for helping their child achieve success and I know that I am in the right place. I started my teaching career in a Title 1 school in Mineral Wells, TX teaching 3^rd grade and then 2^nd grade. I loved my kids there but wanted to be closer to my family so I moved back to my hometown of Wylie, TX. For the last 4 years I have been here teaching 2^nd, 3^rd, and now 1^st for the last 2! I truly think I have found my niche and love teaching first grade!

4.            What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

“Home” By: Phillip Phillips-I chose this song because I finally feel like I am home. I have a wonderful husband and family to support me and we live in our hometown of Wylie. I also finally feel like I have found where I belong at the school I am at and the grade level.

“Ho Hey” By: The Lumineers- I chose this because my husband and I just got married January 4, 2013 and I truly believe that God brought us together and that I belong with him, and he belongs with me! He is my sweetheart

“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” By: Cyndi Lauper- I picked this one because deep down whether in my personal or professional life I just wanted to have fun and enjoy life!

5.           What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?

The hardest thing and most rewarding thing I have ever done was working in a Title 1 school. The majority of the kids in my class were considered poverty level. I learned so much those 2 years about how a child’s home life can effect their school life both in a positive and negative way. That is also when I learned that teaching is more than just teaching the content it truly is about meeting the needs of kids and touching their hearts. Sometimes you are the only person that tells them and shows that you care for them. Take the time to show your students you love them and encourage them even when it’s hard!

6.           What’s your favorite TV show?

The Voice- I love music and love watching peoples dreams come true

7.           What is your favorite item of clothing and why?

Shoes and Colored pants- I absolutely love shoes! I have since I was a little girl! I think that shoes are a way to show your personality and make an outfit. I also think that the colored pants that are in style right now are a way to brighten any outfit and show your personality too!

8.           Number of candles that appeared on your last birthday cake?

28- can’t believe I only have 2 more years till 30. Where has the tie gone?!

9.           What was the last book you read? What are you going to read next?

The last book I read was Teaching Comprehension in Reading K-2 By: Gay Su Pinnell & Patricia L. Scharer. The next book I am going to read is Math Workstations By: Debbie Diller. I very rarely get to read for fun. The books I read are usually professional.

10.        What was the last thing that you ate that you really shouldn’t of?

Haribo Cola Bottles: They are cola flavored gummies. They truly are my weakness!

11.         Give us some links- Twitter, Pinterest, Teacher’s Pay Teachers, Facebook, a free teaching item etc.

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/jacquecope/boards/

TPT: http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Jk-Prater

Freebie: Probability Task Cards: I used these in 2^nd and 3^rd grade. http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Probability-Task-Cards-for-1st-3rd

How to create an easy Countdown Clock for your blog or webpage!

I recently wanted to add a countdown clock to a blog post of mine so I began the Google search.  Don't you just love Google?!  Anything you could possibly want to know, just a few clicks away.  Except for Chuck Norris.  Google can tell us everything except for where Chuck Norris is hiding.  Don't believe me? Try it.  Go to the Google homepage and ask "where is Chuck Norris".  Or save yourself some typing and click {HERE}.  Told ya so. :)

Back to the countdown clock...I found an VERY easy and free clock at Counting Down To...  There is the option to upgrade (pay) and change the color of your clock, but if you are fine with gray, don't bother.  You can choose to register or just start creating your clock.

1st- Name the event, enter the date, and choose your timezone.

2nd- Click embed

{The advanced options are for paying customers only.  You can change the text & background color, as well as the format.  Free clocks look like the one above.}

Copy the HTML code, go to your post draft, click HTML, and paste the code into your blog post. 

That's it!!  You have a countdown clock! Click {HERE} to see mine.  If you add a countdown clock in a blog post or webpage, I'd love to see it-leave a link to it in the comment section.

I created a quick math scavenger hunt today for my kids and I thought I would share it with you.  If you are anything like me, you are looking for fun review activities for the end of the year- check it out!  Click the image below to download.  There are 2 versions- 1 for indoors and 1 for out!

Psssstt...I have exciting news!!!

Phew.  The year is slowly winding down.  I have 5 school days and 2 hours left with children, but who's counting...

HTTP://COUNTINGDOWNTO.COM

I also have a new and exciting change happening next year.............  Are you ready for the news?

I am moving out of the classroom and into the library!!!  

This change has been quite the journey.  I have always loved reading and was a bit fascinated with books & the library as a child.  I had a wonderful reading teacher in middle school and I wanted to be just like her.    Fast forward a few years-I earned my BS in Early Childhood Education, taught kindergarten for 3 years, then went to 2nd grade.  I absolutely loved teaching 2nd graders.  They can work independently, read well, and are still sweet and love their teacher.  Most of them anyways...... 

So, about 5 years ago, I had that class.  You know the class.  The class you never forget.  The class that drove me to drink apply to grad school, in search of an escape.  As I looked through the list of degrees, Library Science jumped out at me.  Books, reading, and the library, everyday?!  A chance to instill a love of reading in lots of children?!  Teaching a new set of little faces every 30 minutes?!  YES PLEASE!  

Two long years later, I had my degree.  As luck would have it, my school librarian was planning on retiring after 2 more years.  I waited patiently, praying all things would work out.  Guess what?  They did!  She is retiring in 5 days and 2 hours, (but who's counting, right?) and I am anxiously waiting to move down the hall!  

I teach in a small, rural, Title 1 school and I love it.  We are a happy little family with a wonderful principal and great things happening everyday.  I wouldn't want to work anywhere else.

Now that you know what's going on in my world, I need your help.  What should I do with my blog? It's called Fun in 1st Grade.  I won't be 1st grade much longer... Obviously, I will not be writing about science experiments or math activities anymore.  I will, on the other hand, have lots to say about books, reading, and  Common Core.  (I'm a Common Core Coach for the state dept.)  Do I start a new blog and let this one drift off into cyberspace?  Change the name and the focus?  Write 2 blogs (that just might kill me!).  Please give me your input in the poll below and leave your suggestions in the comments!!  I am counting on you guys to help me!!

New Teacher Blog Tuesday & Freebies!

Welcome to Fun in 1^st Grade’s New Teacher Blog Tuesday!  If this is your first time, here’s what happens- Each Tuesday, I feature two bloggers who are new to the blogging world.  You get to learn a little about them and pick up a freebie or two! If you would like to be featured, email me at dml8609@gmail.com

Today’s first blogger is Ashley from

1.             Name of blog and link:

“FlyingHigh in First Grade” 

2.          Tell us about your blog and why you started it.

I started my blog to share my ideas and as a way to document the learning that was going on in my classroom year after year. I also wanted get ideas from other bloggers and meet teachers from all around!

3.            Tell us a little about your teaching background.

I have been teaching for five years.  I taught 4^th for 2 years and then my principal surprised me and moved me to 1^st for my 3^rd year of teaching. At first I wasn’t very happy to find out about the move, but in the long run I am so glad I got moved! I love first grade.

4.            What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

One of my favorite groups is Hillsong. They are the best at worship songs! My all time favorite lately is “God is Able”. My husband and I are trying to have a baby and we have hit a few road bumps along the way. The road is going to be a bit longer than we had hoped, but “God is able, he is on your side”. We will soon have a baby of our own, one day!

5.           What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?

The year my husband and I got married he decided to train for a half marathon. I decided that the next year I was going to train with him. We started in July and I was on the verge of tears after every run for the first month. I was so slow and felt like I was dying! Even after just a mile or two. I kept with it and it got easier and easier and I ran my first half marathon in December of 2010. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done! It took me a LONG time to finish, but I did it! And then I ran another in March 2012 and cut 20 minutes off my previous time. I am not a runner and still don’t consider myself a runner even after 2 half marathons, but for all those out there that think they’d never be able to do it, you can! I’m a living testimony that you can!

6.           What’s your favorite TV show?

This is the hardest question! I have lots of favs, but my NEW fav is “The Following” on FOX with Kevin Bacon. It’s about a serial killer who escaped from jail and he has a following of crazies that do his bidding! i.e. killing people! My husband and I are hooked!

7.           What is your favorite item of clothing and why?

My favorite piece of clothing is my denim chambray shirt. I can wear it with pretty much anything! It’s my go to for most outfits.

8.           Number of candles that appeared on your last birthday cake?

My last birthday was in March and I had 27 candles on it.

9.           What was the last book you read? What are you going to read next?

I can’t believe I’m even admitting this, but this book that I last read was about the color grey. I’m sure you now know what book it is J My next book on the list is the 2^nd in that series. Haven’t had a lot of time to read, but hopefully this summer I will!

10.        What was the last thing that you ate that you really shouldn’t of?

I love eating what I’m not supposed to! I am a sucker for cream cheese and I actually just finished off a whole block of it covered in raspberry chipotle sauce with wheat thins. Don’t worry, I had someone helping me eat it J But still, I probably should haven’t eaten it at all.

11.         Give us some links- Twitter, Pinterest, Teacher’s Pay Teachers, Facebook, a free teaching item etc.

TpT- http://teacherspayteachers.com/store/Ashley-Sanderson

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/FlyingHighInFirst

Free Item- http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/teacher-management-binder-covers

Sara is our next blogger and she is from

1.             Name of blog and link:  First GradeFuntastic

2.          Tell us about your blog and why you started it.

I started a personal blog about my family life.  It was fun to do and kept people up to date on my babies at the time.  Last year I stumbled upon some teacher blogs and found so many awesome ideas.  I thought that it would be fun to have a teaching blog to share my ideas and link up with other teachers who had so many wonderful ideas.

3.            Tell us a little about your teaching background.

I was a lead teacher in an infant room right out of college.  I then made the shift to teaching in a classroom.  I was a kindergarten teacher my first year of teaching.  I then looped with my first class to 1^st grade.  I was given the opportunity to pilot all day kindergarten so went back to kindergarten.  I loved it so much! BUT first grade is where I have landed.  I have been teaching for the past 10 years in first grade.  I love all the learning that takes place in first grade.

1.             What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

You Make Me Smile: Uncle Kracker (In my job, I have so many kids and people that make me smile daily).

I Won’t Give Up On You: Jason Mraz (I use this song on parent information night…just letting them know I will give 100% and won’t give up on their children)

We Are Young:  Fun. 

One Day At a Time: Jeannie Seely

These are the four songs I teach all my classes…they are upbeat and teach so much about having dreams and about life.  J

Rainbow Connection: Kermit (Love this song about dreaming)

I Love: Tom T. Hall (Favorite Childhood song)
What A Wonderful World: Louis Armstrong

Somewhere Over the Rainbow:  Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

2.          What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?

My cousin gave my mom a kidney last summer.  It was so hard giving them hugs as they were going to the operating room.  I was so scared that I would NEVER see my mom again and I was scared that something would go wrong with my cousin who did the most selfless thing that one could do.  It was a risky surgery and they are BOTH doing well today. 

3.           What’s your favorite TV show?

Right now…Duck Dynasty.  It is the one show that my WHOLE family loves.  We all sit and watch it together and laugh until our stomachs’ hurt. 

4.           What is your favorite item of clothing and why?

I’m not going to lie…my Forever Lazy.  It has been a cold winter and I looked forward to coming home and putting it on!  It was perfect for staying warm and snuggling up with my boys.

5.           Number of candles that appeared on your last birthday cake?

40!!!!  Yikes!

6.           What was the last book you read? What are you going to read next?

I want to read: Six Years by Harlan Coben

My Last Book Read:  Dream Class by Michael Linsen

7.           What was the last thing that you ate that you really shouldn’t of?

Plain M&M’s that I melted in the microwave.

8.           Give us some links- Twitter, Pinterest, Teacher’s Pay Teachers, Facebook, a free teaching item etc.

Twitter (I just got started with this):  https://twitter.com/sconnell72

Teacher’s Pay Teachers: http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Sara-Connell

Free Resource: 

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Compound-Words-Spring-Freebie

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Life-Cycle-of-a-Chicken-Word-Wall-Words

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Teaching-Guided-Reading-Parent-Information-Night-Mad-Gab

Thanks for stopping by!! 

'Tis the Season for Memories!

   There are just some times in your life when your camera phone just won't do.  Don't get me wrong- I use my iPhone camera all the time; It's quick, easy, and always with me.  But when I want a really good shot, for my blog or a frame, I reach for my "real" camera.  I have a Canon EOS Rebel T3 that I absolutely love!  I am constantly amazed at how beautiful the photos are!  The Rebel is the nicest camera I've ever owned and I was pleasantly surprised with how easy it was to learn how to use it.  I am by no means a photographer, but you'd never know it with some of the pictures I have!
   The spring seems to be a time when everyone is taking pictures.  Maybe it's because everything is blooming and colors are popping up all around us.  Maybe you have a graduate graduating.  Perhaps you want to capture memories of several generations on Mother's or Father's Day.  Whatever the reason, Best Buy can help you.  They have a wide range of DSL cameras, action camcorders, and compact cameras with long zoom, low light, and wifi to fit your preference and need.  Like I said, I love my Rebel.  You can even bring in your old camera and trade it in for a Best Buy gift card!  What could be better than that?  Best Buy currently has a great selection of cameras at great prices, just click {HERE}.
   Once you get those perfect shots, you are gong to need a frame.  Best Buy has a great selection of digital frames {HERE}.  Want to save an additional 25% on your digital frame? Best Buy shared a special coupon with me to pass on to my wonderful readers!  Click {HERE} to receive this discount.  Free shipping is available on all cameras at bestbuy.com and with Best Buy's low price guarentee, you're definitely going to get a deal!
   I don't endorse products or shops that I don't like, so rest assured, you'll be happy with your Best Buy purchase!  Go on over and check out their cameras and digital frame discounts before your next photo opp presents itself!

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

New Teacher Blog Tuesday!

Our first blogger I’d like to welcome is Becky from

1.             Name of blog and link:  Compassionate Teacher

http://compassionate-teacher.blogspot.com/

2.          Tell us about your blog and why you started it.

I started my blog for a variety of reasons.  My best friend Jessica from Joy in the Journey got me started reading teaching blogs.  I soon became addicted.  I loved getting fresh ideas and great freebies.  I began to contemplate sharing my own ideas and teaching adventures.  I have always enjoyed journaling about my experiences, so I decided to take the plunge and start a blog.  On a different note, I am an advocate for an organization called Compassion International.  Compassion is dedicated to releasing children from poverty.  I thought that a blog could be a good way to raise awareness and support to help children in need.

3.            Tell us a little about your teaching background.

        I am a second year first grade teacher.  Growing up, I thought I wanted to be a gourmet chef or an interior designer, but deep down I think I always knew I would be a teacher.  I have always loved working with kids as a babysitter, camp counselor, teacher etc.  In college, I enjoyed many different field experiences working with all grade levels from K-8.  Even though I enjoyed working with every grade level, my heart now belongs in first.  I love teaching first grade!

4.            What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

Casting Crowns: “Come to the Well”- I feel like this song was written for me.  It reminds me to leave all the cares of the world behind and just to rely on Christ for everything.

Tobymac: “Steal My Show”- I absolutely love the music and lyrics to this song.  I want God to “steal my classroom,” meaning that I want Him to get all the glory for all I do as a teacher.

Matthew West: “Do Something” -  This song challenges me and everyone not just to sit around and wonder why there is poverty and injustice in the world, but to get up and do something about it.

5.           What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?

    I would have to say that moving from Ohio to New Jersey by myself right after college to start my first year of teaching was pretty hard and intense.  Looking back though, I am so thankful God gave me the courage to do it because I love where I live and teach and have an amazing group of friends here now.

6.           What’s your favorite TV show?  This is a tough one!  I am addicted to way too many shows.  I would have to say Revolution or The Biggest Loser.

7.           Are you a Times New Roman or DJ Inkers kind of girl/guy and why?

Probably Times New Roman, although I am breaking away from that now that I have discovered how many cute fonts there are in the world.

8.           Number of candles that appeared on your last birthday cake? 23 (soon to be 24 in April)

9.           What was the last book you read? Kisses from Katie- This is an INCREDIBLE true story of a 22 year old girl who lives in Uganda and cares for those in need there.

10.        What chore do you absolutely hate doing? Sweeping!  I hate the annoying line of dirt at the edge of the dust pan.  It never goes away!

11.         Give us some links- Twitter, Pinterest, Teacher’s Pay Teachers, Facebook, a free teaching item etc.

·        Free Character Study Graphic Organizers: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B8oEApArT5jdekoySTkydUZNcGM/edit?usp=sharing

·        All About Book Freebie: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B8oEApArT5jdMFFOS294bFVQUUU/edit?usp=sharing

Our next blogger is Sara from

1.      Name of blog and link: Adventures In Fourth Grade Reading

                                        

2.   Tell us about your blog and why you started it.

         I started the blog as a way to connect with other teachers.  There are so many great resources out there, I wanted a way to connect with others.  I also wanted to be able to share what worked (and what didn’t) in my classroom.  I also was in the process of applying for a writing program in my area, and wanted to document the process.

3.     Tell us a little about your teaching background.

        When I say I’ve taught at least one day in EVERY grade, I’m not making it up!  haha!  When I graduated from college, I subbed in the district where I went to school.  While there, I did a long term position for a PreK with disabilities class.  After that, I made the jump to coach a high school swim team.  While employed as a coach, I filled several teaching positions in the school.  I then moved (again!) to a preschool/daycare/kindergarten where I was a Kindergarten enrichment teacher for several years.  (*whew!  Looking back just makes me tired!)  I worked there for about 4 years.  I then decided to make the BIG move from New Jersey to Tennessee!  A huge change, but one of the best decisions I’ve made!  I’ve worked at the same school since I moved here, four years ago.  I started filling in with two interim positions, which turned into a permanent teaching position.  I am currently teaching fourth grade for the third year.  This is my first year in fourth grade reading and I LOVE it!

4.     What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

        Oh goodness.  Music is such an important part of my life.  This is probably the hardest question on this questionnaire!

        Swim by Jack’s Mannequin

        Don’t Come Easy by Matt Wertz

        Zak and Sara by Ben Folds

        Sara Smile by Hall and Oates.  (Bet you can’t guess why I chose this one!  haha!)

5.    What’s the hardest thing you've ever done?

        Moving 14 hours away from my family was the hardest, but yet one of the best things I've ever done!  (Plus-I’m hoping they'll be on their way down here in the next few years!)

6.    What’s your favorite TV show?

        Being Human

        Chicago Fire

        Criminal Minds

7.    Are you a Times New Roman or DJ Inkers kind of girl/guy and why?

        DJ Inkers, for sure!  I like to march to the beat of my own drum.  I like to mix it up on everything I hand out! 

8.    Number of candles that appeared on your last birthday cake?

        30.  Woah.  Thank goodness my friends didn't really put 30 on it!  :)

9.    What was the last book you read?

        I’m currently reading Through the Ever Night by Veronica Rossi.  It’s the second book in the Under The Never Sky series.  It’s great.  I find that I read a lot of YA lit for several reasons.  First of all, I think it’s important to know what my kids are reading.  Second, I’d rather my reading be an escape than a serious topic!

10.  What chore do you absolutely hate doing?

        Dusting.  Hands down, it’s my least favorite chore.

11.  Give us some links- Twitter, Pinterest, Teacher’s Pay Teachers, Facebook, a free teaching item etc.

        Twitter:  SSheehan9

If you would like to be featured, email me at dml8609@gmail.com!