tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7535501626272723642024-03-19T03:17:42.824-04:00What Happens in First GradeThis is a teaching blog about my adventures in first grade...lots of freebies and inspiration for your classroom!Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-30379809589889170172015-08-05T23:06:00.002-04:002015-08-05T23:15:03.007-04:00Primary Math Word Wall Cards<div style="text-align: center;">
Hi! Remember me? The blogger who used to blog here. ;) Sigh. It's safe to say that I've thoroughly enjoyed my summer and managed to unplug and unwind a little and now that August is here my mind is racing with all things back to school! </div>
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I don't return to school until the end of August so I'm easing myself back into the grind, checking a few things off of my to do list(s) during my daughter's naptime each day! </div>
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This is one of my favorite resources to date. I absolutely loved using it last year in my classroom and I'm just now getting around to sharing it. </div>
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This is a set of math word wall cards for the primary classroom. The terms and definitions are simple and kid-friendly. Each term has a visual as well. I made two sets for my classroom last year. One set I put up permanently as a math word wall. The other set I kept out to use during instruction and review math vocabulary every day during our number talks. Math vocabulary and simply "talking" about math has been a huge focus at our school and I've really seen a difference in the way students are able to articulate their math thinking. </div>
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I am open to expanding this resource with more terms. I welcome your feedback! Grab it now while it's on SALE (through Friday)!</div>
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This is, once again, why my blogging has been scarce. She's a pretty adorable little excuse, don't ya think?</div>
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Apparently, when people say "they grow up so fast," they are not kidding. Slow down, sweet girl!</div>
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(and while we're at it...slow down summer!)</div>
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I'll be back soon! Happy teaching to you...and best wishes to all of you who are meeting your sweet kiddos this week!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-67894139154655488912015-02-17T22:44:00.000-05:002015-02-17T22:56:34.274-05:00Ones and Tens...Valentine Heart Style!<div style="text-align: center;">
I won't even begin to waste time saying how long it's been since I last blogged or explaining why. In a nutshell, being a full-time mom and full-time teacher is a "full time" job. Who knew?! :) Even though my daughter is almost a year old, (seriously?!) doing the working mom thing is still not easy for me. I don't think it ever will be. I struggle with it...a lot. Those of you that make it "look" easy... I'm in awe! </div>
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Truth be told, there are STILL more mornings than I'd like to admit that I cry on the way to work and every afternoon is a struggle between wanting to run home to my family and staying at work just "5 minutes longer" to get things ready for the next day. </div>
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Having said that, there are still moments every day that I LOVE my job and know that I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing. I seriously miss blogging more and I know that eventually I will find my way back on a more regular basis, but for now I'm not going to worry about it and just blog and share when I can (like when I get 2 snow days in a row! yippee!).</div>
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This girl gets her "love" of cold weather from her momma, I do believe!</div>
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But we did enjoy our snow days for extra cuddling! How is she 11 months old already?</div>
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If you follow me on Instagram, then you already saw the obscene amount of candy hearts we used last week! Seriously...these things taste disgusting so I KNOW teachers are the only people keeping the lights on in the candy heart factories. Am I right?</div>
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We did probability, estimation, graphing, place value, and dissolving experiments with our matter unit so I got my money's worth out of the hearts! I kept some "clean" for the kids to eat and we just used the rest for all of our activities.</div>
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Every year, some kids struggle with the one more/one less/ten more/ten less concept. Since we are a little (gasp!) ahead in math this year as of now, I wanted to incorporate candy hearts into some extra practice. I found these little dressing cups at Target (100 of them for 1.99!) and pre-made groups of ten to use. We use ten frames and base ten blocks all.the.time. and I just like for them to see these important concepts in a lot of different ways. </div>
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Plus...I am a firm believer that a little novelty goes a long way!</div>
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By the way...We are not playing Race to 100, I just accidentally pulled these mats out instead of my regular place value ones! Pretty sure the ones pictured are from Cara Carroll's fabulous place value unit.</div>
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This activity made it easier to "talk" math and see who was still struggling because we could say "Do we need to change the number of CUPS or the number of hearts?" I even had a few inquisitive minds ask if they could count the hearts in their cups to MAKE SURE there were 10 in each one. Sheesh...it's like they've seen me make mistakes before or something. ;) I also made one large tupperware container with ten of the "groups of ten" cups inside as a visual for what 100 looks like. I forgot to snap a picture.</div>
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Even my little friend who doesn't speak any English was able to get in on the action and count some "ones" with his partner! YES!</div>
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I did an activity very similar to this that I blogged about <a href="http://whathappensinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2013/03/friday-phonics-freebie.html">here</a> last year if you are working on this concept and it's NOT Valentine's Day. However, I really liked having a visual "group of ten" so if I did this again I would probably use the little disposable cups again with groups of 10 M&Ms instead of the pretzel rods. Plus, the cups were fun to stack!</div>
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Do you notice a theme here with my math instruction? FOOD! </div>
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Hehe.</div>
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If you are looking for more place value and number sense activities, check out my "Making Sense of Numbers" resource <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Making-Sense-of-Numbers-Place-Value-Skip-Counting-Ordinal-Numbers-More-527115">HERE</a>.</div>
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Happy teaching to you!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-23044324765536479382014-08-18T08:24:00.002-04:002014-08-18T08:24:57.925-04:00Teacher Week - The Who!<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm linking up with Blog Hoppin' this morning for teacher week! I'm going to keep this post short and sweet because after my <a href="http://whathappensinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2014/08/im-back.html">return to the blogging world post</a> yesterday, you already heard more than you probably ever wanted to about me! ;)</div>
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My name is Amy and this is what my life looks like these days. </div>
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Well, except most days I'm wearing milk-stained yoga pants and the bed is not made.</div>
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I have a sweet husband, a giant dog, and a tiny daughter.</div>
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My husband, Andy, and I are madly in love with our daughter, Zoey, who will be 5 months old on Wednesday. We also adore our "firstborn" son, Sawyer. It's been so fun to watch him become the patient, gentle, precious big brother that I knew he would be.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHauVpO_IfEPntY-INHQEkfxzwOzDwoaDH8iaqUWOyQo0vOaGhvtMms6eNMih_qvboMwNgKA9S-f5frNLA-zt5LysK6Q4nMVqSnksnHj6A0DpuhKrR4Xy0gBE1Vi9JBl3CoMtQSlFSpPM_/s1600/IMG_2936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHauVpO_IfEPntY-INHQEkfxzwOzDwoaDH8iaqUWOyQo0vOaGhvtMms6eNMih_qvboMwNgKA9S-f5frNLA-zt5LysK6Q4nMVqSnksnHj6A0DpuhKrR4Xy0gBE1Vi9JBl3CoMtQSlFSpPM_/s1600/IMG_2936.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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The fabulous <a href="http://stepintosecondgrade.blogspot.com/">Amy Lemons</a> shared her template for 10 random facts (Thank you!) , so here they are:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRtSkSSf5fGCRQZK-KNh91nXv5DWJEaT3wKet548mxfsEMG7iDhR0q6PQWM5m50BXF-2w2hd5H_pK325V0YHTgTvqijA6crG28LGx1JPteBhZKBhDC2xxshwo4WZ5jM9oXFOjiDcb1FY9/s1600/10+things.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRtSkSSf5fGCRQZK-KNh91nXv5DWJEaT3wKet548mxfsEMG7iDhR0q6PQWM5m50BXF-2w2hd5H_pK325V0YHTgTvqijA6crG28LGx1JPteBhZKBhDC2xxshwo4WZ5jM9oXFOjiDcb1FY9/s1600/10+things.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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But when you wake up to this face...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqshBOWYJ_AOGwOluEryhJBPtVUkJ4MWiqYFHB76en1g-bQ0Uw0vIlP9gvUJmyx35iPlPFEA-38T1A-fuN_gxEuiuZFK3-y6IM6kxvNU7wxaG8GMiQU216g54mTw4LbA9bdRRTeTwAGuBv/s1600/zo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqshBOWYJ_AOGwOluEryhJBPtVUkJ4MWiqYFHB76en1g-bQ0Uw0vIlP9gvUJmyx35iPlPFEA-38T1A-fuN_gxEuiuZFK3-y6IM6kxvNU7wxaG8GMiQU216g54mTw4LbA9bdRRTeTwAGuBv/s1600/zo.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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you just thank God for trusting you to be her mommy and you don't care how much sleep you got or will ever get again! Am I right?</div>
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Link up with Blog Hoppin' this week!</div>
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<a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/"><img alt="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8EvZugSWSOVdfSv9LN8r3lXa2j2NA89hnTr6s29qSYLYZWQWJDNqLRjY98_qhSmDatZfVsBDCDvKQ64RkSUeDDrQjKIKVPwVExqtHLT7i2UyibWpmx8xKby35V6bitfHeP6pGPL6wWPZZ/s1600/Blog+Hoppin+BTS-01.png" height="307" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy teaching to you! Especially those who are heading back today!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-2825738530605927992014-08-16T23:54:00.001-04:002014-08-18T08:29:28.282-04:00I'm back.<div style="text-align: center;">
My last post was in December. Yes. It actually says 2013. </div>
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Ready or not...I'm back. I've missed you. Really, I have. </div>
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December seems like many years ago and yesterday all at the same time. When I last blogged, I was very pregnant and very unaware of what was about to happen to our little family. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkWmDsFMbvYt7ZI2zWhTmlU_MQB719TLihkWyRwbNqwEKyO1HLQbNcA_nxMLlCzHq93JriDxz7dBJXBzDlgKgYvVUEs3yqPOuGR_QLV9fkNs3uT8hlfQ12YzNvpukgi-NJhO2SLJ-tSuy/s1600/IMG_2138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkWmDsFMbvYt7ZI2zWhTmlU_MQB719TLihkWyRwbNqwEKyO1HLQbNcA_nxMLlCzHq93JriDxz7dBJXBzDlgKgYvVUEs3yqPOuGR_QLV9fkNs3uT8hlfQ12YzNvpukgi-NJhO2SLJ-tSuy/s1600/IMG_2138.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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Clueless.</div>
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To make a very long story (somewhat) short...I took a step back from blogging because I could. I couldn't stop teaching my precious first graders. I couldn't completely neglect my home and husband. I couldn't stop preparing for my baby girl aaannnnddd I couldn't stay awake past 8 pm, so something had to give. ;) I reluctantly chose my blog and TPT business to go on the back burner. </div>
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We got some troubling news about my pregnancy in December and the remaining months of my pregnancy were exciting, but always accompanied by an annoying whisper of worry and fear. We truly didn't know what to expect. I had to start seeing different kinds of doctors several times a week and doctor's appointments became very much like a part time job....ya know...except for the getting paid part. I cried a lot and prayed even more. I thanked God every day for the ROCK that is my husband and for family, friends, and strangers who prayed for my little girl.</div>
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I left school on a Friday in March thinking that I was going to a regular doctor's appointment and wound up in the hospital. I didn't get to say goodbye to my school babies and it broke my heart! I had to BEG the doctor to let me go home just for one little minute before I checked in to the hospital. I mean, I had to pick out my pajamas (goodness knows what my husband would have picked out) and shave my legs (priorities!). </div>
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I wasn't due until the end of April so the doc assured me it would just be for a night to monitor some things and then I'd be on my merry way home to finish my sub plans and decorate my baby girl's nursery and do the 12 loads of laundry on my bedroom floor.</div>
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Well, that night in the hospital turned into a very long week of scary news and emotional roller coasters. Every day started with a "you might have to have an emergency C-section today." Umm...what?</div>
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And did you know that when you are on standby for an emergency C-section they don't let you eat?</div>
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Mmm Hmm. I can't talk about it...post traumatic hunger disorder.</div>
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After almost a week, my spunky girl decided she couldn't wait a second longer to make her debut and we welcomed sweet Zoey Rae 6 weeks before her due date. (Patience is still not her strong suit. ;))</div>
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She was tiny (3 pounds 15 ounces) and perfect.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ZK4dSHISpQn8lo0yc35R-5eNe374x2FijAPsmWdCIvg2IilkSk719ECCpxc-ILsUh0PArPPL-c78BSGyv7F3RyC_kFypeUFZGgl81ib6vz2xI5xNz1sOOcqLHxs5OIhzJgoFT2i3pUgU/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ZK4dSHISpQn8lo0yc35R-5eNe374x2FijAPsmWdCIvg2IilkSk719ECCpxc-ILsUh0PArPPL-c78BSGyv7F3RyC_kFypeUFZGgl81ib6vz2xI5xNz1sOOcqLHxs5OIhzJgoFT2i3pUgU/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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She was in the NICU for the longest 17 days of my life and then...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYfLpz1pVeg8wmUqstpykXlmj7YHqIHiyY3PE5TU1TlqL0UjUuS_2fWggTGpl4Z4Nnkzsc8EMsw9hgttAeYstAVtXZ3rV83R1FlTCoLsi0IhVUP_7maujRiypmPVfYtcjTRBFNdE7s55L/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYfLpz1pVeg8wmUqstpykXlmj7YHqIHiyY3PE5TU1TlqL0UjUuS_2fWggTGpl4Z4Nnkzsc8EMsw9hgttAeYstAVtXZ3rV83R1FlTCoLsi0IhVUP_7maujRiypmPVfYtcjTRBFNdE7s55L/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" height="213" width="640" /></a></div>
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she was home.</div>
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And ever since, our home and our lives have been filled with more smiles, love, diapers, laundry, the color PINK, and pure joy than I could have ever imagined. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2FatuxzN6NFxB7xAph1zHu8T4xQBY6WQjeXbuqtaP1uly8DccO6z3jPARuGTz2qIBzSWTqg2Ay0LvtbKztelJ1LsipkgssL6v4LVC-CdT2hyIzmVDupzNfqehoqCM-pG9rxHlsZQH_ne/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2FatuxzN6NFxB7xAph1zHu8T4xQBY6WQjeXbuqtaP1uly8DccO6z3jPARuGTz2qIBzSWTqg2Ay0LvtbKztelJ1LsipkgssL6v4LVC-CdT2hyIzmVDupzNfqehoqCM-pG9rxHlsZQH_ne/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage3.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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She is almost 5 months old and she is still a teeny tiny thing but she is as strong and determined as she can be.</div>
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We adore her.</div>
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I went back to work for 2 weeks to finish out the school year. It was tough. I start back to school for a brand new school year next week. It's going to be even tougher. I am gearing up....mind, body, and soul!</div>
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I just wanted to say hi and get this first post out of the way. I'll be back to all things first grade very, very soon!</div>
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Happy teaching to you!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-81180402937195985452013-12-02T10:32:00.000-05:002013-12-02T10:36:28.213-05:00A sale, a freebie, and HAPPY December!<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy December! I hope you had a Thanksgiving full of blessings, laughs, family, friends, and lots of yummy food! I was feeling most thankful for my maternity jeans after all the food I ate this weekend. Yikes! (I am still trying to figure out why all pants are not made with those glorious stretchy waistbands.)</div>
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My long weekend was extended an extra day because I am <strike>patiently</strike> awaiting my ultrasound appointment in a few hours to *hopefully* find out if our little sweetie is a boy or a girl! You could say I'm just a taaaddd excited! I may or may not have already checked out some cyber Monday deals online so I can do a little pink or blue shopping this evening. ;)</div>
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I think we got our fill of all things TURKEY last week in first grade, and now it's on to Christmas...so hard to believe!</div>
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These scrapbook paper turkeys turned out to be one of my favorite projects we did. Adorable! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBg0R8WqeVbQABST3rnt4qFtP-v0uBxAEruPKVAOC9JpdZDdv6EtiwXeai3W1CEikaIg-oUf89wrc5RuQcyH-Xsp9PYmHfW779rnpbGEvSzjxQsSrHnc8l61FNJA_RLha2-Ukdt2WJ_6_/s1600/IMAG1042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBg0R8WqeVbQABST3rnt4qFtP-v0uBxAEruPKVAOC9JpdZDdv6EtiwXeai3W1CEikaIg-oUf89wrc5RuQcyH-Xsp9PYmHfW779rnpbGEvSzjxQsSrHnc8l61FNJA_RLha2-Ukdt2WJ_6_/s320/IMAG1042.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
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If you are getting an early start on Christmas projects like we are...here is a little freebie to get you started. We are participating in the Macy's "Believe" Campaign as a school. We are all sending letters to Santa to support the Make a Wish Foundation. Our local paper also publishes their letters...so our deadline is soon.</div>
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Here is a template for your Santa letters. Click to download.</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77Z0o1MmtNeGw4V2c/edit?usp=sharing"><img alt="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77Z0o1MmtNeGw4V2c/edit?usp=sharing" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4Tlmt94pOBrkcDtJ59vkVT6NQd-5ALOMgCm3SrZpFJruZ9kvJvYsHDcXHNikkwQGjqdUXO-A8OB5KJbSux1Pshspuig-zVyL9o6umKqgJQtSkhmgD-vk7W44C-0R4zZHAnUcd6A4yyG3/s400/SantaLetter.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We are working on asking vs. telling sentences this week so in our letters, we will TELL Santa something, make two wishes, and then ASK Santa something. We also talk about *nice* ways to ask for something so it's not an I want, I want, I want letter. ;)</div>
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Here is an example from last year...</div>
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Dear Santa,</div>
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I am in first grade now and I lost two teeth! I would like a Monster High doll. I would also love to have a stuffed kitten with blue eyes. How are your reindeer doing?</div>
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Love,</div>
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a first grader :)</div>
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Do you have this book??</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Longest-Christmas-List-Ever/dp/1423101936/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385997132&sr=8-1&keywords=the+longest+christmas+list+ever"><img alt="http://www.amazon.com/The-Longest-Christmas-List-Ever/dp/1423101936/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385997132&sr=8-1&keywords=the+longest+christmas+list+ever" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBYnKlubcUwjC3OILebu_mXDaSj8PRmyRM2Z7kKvGWru-_1ExcZldSZdAHvmhBP2y4hpuIEQeJkDfh7wsoQ7GxEtJj1woztivzgmDGpD5y2PRf3ziJ32PewnWiU7e3D2cyWiB88f8aMoaU/s1600/longest.jpg" /></a></div>
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It is a precious read aloud to use when you are ready to write your Santa letters!</div>
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I am participating in the big TPT sale today and tomorrow! 20% + 10% off....yes please! </div>
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Here are some Christmas & Winter math stations, games and activities galore to get you going this holiday season. Click the images to check out the free previews!</div>
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Don't forget to use the code CYBER for an EXTRA 10% off from TPT on your purchases!</div>
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OK...almost time to head to my appointment! Yippee! Fingers crossed that our little booger cooperates (and his/her legs are NOT crossed!) ;)</div>
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Boy or girl?? Any guesses??</div>
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Happy Monday & Happy Teaching to you!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com72tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-75976204090825651932013-11-06T19:49:00.000-05:002015-02-17T23:08:04.585-05:00Forgive me! <div style="text-align: center;">
Wow. It's been a while. A long while. I promise I have a very good reason for being completely absent from this little blog for the last few <strike>weeks</strike> months. In fact, it's the best reason I can think of...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKUTwUx5xmeIIPeu3Dy7UAxOfTFTG615cLnlcBvnsXWbdw-XC6sTPZmbUnPU2seK3H3rf8FZhzHKoogwcuNNZ0bGRgCxKdx-Rprdi0BL8aBP7TK1F1QZSB9uscmMBUnTENDnwhVnIfOVU/s1600/SawyersBigAnnouncementblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKUTwUx5xmeIIPeu3Dy7UAxOfTFTG615cLnlcBvnsXWbdw-XC6sTPZmbUnPU2seK3H3rf8FZhzHKoogwcuNNZ0bGRgCxKdx-Rprdi0BL8aBP7TK1F1QZSB9uscmMBUnTENDnwhVnIfOVU/s320/SawyersBigAnnouncementblog.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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It's true! We are expecting a little one on April 30th. The hubs and I are thrilled. Sawyer is...undecided. ;)</div>
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In all seriousness, I have missed blogging and all of YOU so much. I truly am sorry for not getting back to those of you who have reached out, asked questions, and sent sweet e-mails. Truly. I feel so out of the loop. I'm telling ya...even blogstalking in the evenings has been too taxing. It has been straight to PJ's, fuzzy socks, and naps after school. Thank the Lord for a fabulous husband! I feel incredibly blessed that I have not been terribly sick or any of that nonsense....just plain ol' worn out. </div>
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So long story (kind of) short....the first trimester and the beginning of a school year with 21 "spirited" first graders combined...just really kicked my tail. I hear wonderful things about you, second trimester...so bring on the nesting and the energy!</div>
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I was hesitant to tell my students about my pregnancy too early...but one of my cuties began to question what (and how much) I was eating each day at lunch because of my growing belly...so I decided to tell them after our field trip to the pumpkin patch.</div>
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They gasped and broke out into applause. It was pretty special...and downright adorable. I felt like I should stand up and bow. They immediately began shouting out names. They came up with "Sparky" and "Pumpkin" (which may have been due to the fact that we spent all day at the pumpkin patch and were eating pumpkin ice cream at the time). In any case...we're going to keep thinking. I'm not sold on either of those quite yet. ;)</div>
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In fact, now that I think about it....all of the names that they have come up with so far have been better suited for a dog rather than a child. Maybe they think I am going to give birth to a golden retriever rather than a human. Hmmm.</div>
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Our classroom has been a busy place despite my exhaustion, I promise! I will be back very soon with pictures. My kiddos are making so much progress. Our school is doing Action Based Learning labs in the morning and I really see it making a difference in some of my babies who struggle the most. </div>
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Are you familiar with Action Based Learning? It has a lot to do with brain research and crossing the midline. It's really fascinating to see and hear about the connection between some of these fine and gross motor skills and academic performance. </div>
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To *try* to make up for my blogging absence...I'm going to throw a little sale in my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Amy-Journell-Johnston">TPT store</a>...20% off everything! </div>
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And lastly, here is a fun Thanksgiving freebie to work on "adding two." We are gearing up for a big unit on addition in my classroom! </div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Give-Me-Two-More-Math-Game-413555"><img alt="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Give-Me-Two-More-Math-Game-413555" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiywE8JrKp8X7RaM_dX4HPAc4jfpo4gdj0_MgQTe37FBrZN-1kJNDym-kPb2cbFKyc1ZjcfHAsChzohw4H3Supvwlxmm6Z9HcdBgFcIwsHBWU8bl3XoDC_ry_ui0_I1wS7fsL5C8ZhbfY10/s400/Givemetwomore.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Happy teaching to you! It feels good to be back!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-54965678236488343172013-08-16T20:38:00.000-04:002013-08-16T20:45:52.164-04:00Teacher Week 2013: Tips & Tricks - Make a Fabric Bulletin Board from "scratch"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/2013/08/teacher-week-2013-tricks-and-tips.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGftY5t9MFbK1iQ7TCbia-2F57dt8cR-D2d5jUsON9oLd_7Wj7tpDU0dd_zeCqvwE25rXPc4k59Q8luz9DsyuxOmAidjnLZjR1FhTp5E2Tnb7G4LOXD52jN_hwB3yQPRd9x_sQlL79wCpm/s200/teacherweek2.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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I'm back for a quick post on the last day of teacher week!</div>
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I've gotten a lot of questions about the fabric "bulletin boards" that were in my classroom pictures earlier this week. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBtis5ToGeIa0ghtDepdZA9MGl03XpuFexdeFbiA3eWS6axVQnXrJ0TD677E9GI-48IZ2BpF0AXNMiXH0aZQdjOU1bdDHrSqFzusB6_P98JrBjxSY6doU3TSBzqxSNyPWNHscZdkEy3-N/s1600/bb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBtis5ToGeIa0ghtDepdZA9MGl03XpuFexdeFbiA3eWS6axVQnXrJ0TD677E9GI-48IZ2BpF0AXNMiXH0aZQdjOU1bdDHrSqFzusB6_P98JrBjxSY6doU3TSBzqxSNyPWNHscZdkEy3-N/s400/bb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Example #1 - blue polka dotted board beside the Smartboard<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYBmYmK7AcN6tJuHXEwteO3dt5_HDCVie-jTcyqx-2hmGRGzOIBfN3t7yWiEFPlkONDDolGdNcgKRa46NQYxfgWz9MZsjfcvnQKONthiOa2RUqyBDuBoIfVwZ4AIQh1gA77xFhGDKpvWlP/s1600/bb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYBmYmK7AcN6tJuHXEwteO3dt5_HDCVie-jTcyqx-2hmGRGzOIBfN3t7yWiEFPlkONDDolGdNcgKRa46NQYxfgWz9MZsjfcvnQKONthiOa2RUqyBDuBoIfVwZ4AIQh1gA77xFhGDKpvWlP/s400/bb2.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Example #2- yellow chevron board above community supply shelf</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJyPIsVunlxvOH492MPLxd96sj5LCynvv-oxd_CgKnTHClJrtOkLb13eJfHxPEeCsGrpmHD-oI8HA5L0Hmp0rUQ6RAtju2k4q9I23BhnAKjGVqCoK9AFnH6LnCOIS8mjwuPndKCPVGaw5/s1600/IMAG0785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJyPIsVunlxvOH492MPLxd96sj5LCynvv-oxd_CgKnTHClJrtOkLb13eJfHxPEeCsGrpmHD-oI8HA5L0Hmp0rUQ6RAtju2k4q9I23BhnAKjGVqCoK9AFnH6LnCOIS8mjwuPndKCPVGaw5/s400/IMAG0785.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Example #3 - hot pink board above (soon to be blue shelves) for math manipulatives</div>
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The truth is they are not bulletin boards at all...it's just plain ol' fabric on my painted cinderblock walls. So, I figured I'd go ahead and make that a quick trick to share. I think I've finally mastered the easiest (and quickest) way to put fabric on the walls after several years of trial and error.</div>
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So, first things first. You need to meet my hot, new BFF.</div>
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Here she is.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiqaYI2_ovKOl4FvuUq6fZewPD4k76t50SnQ-UmtJBpmD90Z95KqI0Fjs0EyIsw3INQIHcAji3Vz6EBOtqXjfbElplc89GRgh22948L2Y1xsQsHplEhTgAWRv1m2TMnM_T9x9wC8tCtOvV/s1600/gluegun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiqaYI2_ovKOl4FvuUq6fZewPD4k76t50SnQ-UmtJBpmD90Z95KqI0Fjs0EyIsw3INQIHcAji3Vz6EBOtqXjfbElplc89GRgh22948L2Y1xsQsHplEhTgAWRv1m2TMnM_T9x9wC8tCtOvV/s400/gluegun.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Isn't she beautiful?</div>
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This is a cordless glue gun. I've borrowed one from one of my coworkers for going on 7 years now so I finally broke down at bought my own (at JoAnns). It's fabulous. You can use it for quite a while before putting it back on its base to heat up again. I'm sure you could do this without a cordless gun but this makes it way easier.</div>
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I put up almost everything in my room with hot glue because it's the only thing that stays all year. Most of the time it pops right off of the wall with no problems but every now and then you'll get a glob that doesn't want to come off without the paint. </div>
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Soooo...I figured out a different way to hang things instead of putting the hot glue directly on the wall. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFus_Eca7NbxTgOO6iAp4L_d0C1uHDasI0t1Wv2zOgrYlU6YABqsaXs7s_N8Sfqp1KvLSTqxaRCipCdSpIbwbLtoaqc-YrtBIqdQbSDwTi3AbtF73UpRKjrUsFxAh4oZekYhU6iQHXljLm/s1600/tape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFus_Eca7NbxTgOO6iAp4L_d0C1uHDasI0t1Wv2zOgrYlU6YABqsaXs7s_N8Sfqp1KvLSTqxaRCipCdSpIbwbLtoaqc-YrtBIqdQbSDwTi3AbtF73UpRKjrUsFxAh4oZekYhU6iQHXljLm/s400/tape.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Painter's tape!</div>
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Just put the tape wherever you want to hang something and the hot glue goes on the painter's tape. If you need to take it down, you just peel the painter's tape off and there is absolutely no mess or damage!</div>
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You can also put painter's tape on whatever it is that you are hanging so that it won't be damaged if you want to take it down or move it but I didn't do that with my fabric because I figured by the time I wanted a change, I would be ready for new fabric.</div>
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The best part is this makes the whole process go super duper fast AND helps you get your fabric straight on the wall!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoApD6TDXLCnXIuH1raII1t4X286xPLkKEIG2Cn-KienUL576XEmIHYO4v4npGE7dd4glp5o1gjKmFRvKx8UB0Hyi3kK917Yy7PHBJcFjrJdv7_d2PED_gQwgnZobMkNledwkqaBWeKBK/s1600/moretape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoApD6TDXLCnXIuH1raII1t4X286xPLkKEIG2Cn-KienUL576XEmIHYO4v4npGE7dd4glp5o1gjKmFRvKx8UB0Hyi3kK917Yy7PHBJcFjrJdv7_d2PED_gQwgnZobMkNledwkqaBWeKBK/s400/moretape.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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More tape and the fabric is on its way up!</div>
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*Notice the purple bandaid...yes...my hot little bff can be kind of feisty sometimes. We have somewhat of an unhealthy relationship. She burns me. I say bad things to her and then I forgive her and love her once more. Sigh.*<br />
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If you need a little extra staying power for a larger board...this stuff works great and wipes off the wall with a Clorox wipe pretty easily.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hzHS-ikdSx6q0I50_s_2nqQDbQvzHFlrcaReYYuA7Da38y4K-IMVySOf_-xTotWPbwO7zJfSif52oyBVDfz-kKSdDIH08ddZ6BRiW-jQjWNyPIvsxvei5lPOho6iJt8e-IcXQcp_jrdF/s1600/spray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hzHS-ikdSx6q0I50_s_2nqQDbQvzHFlrcaReYYuA7Da38y4K-IMVySOf_-xTotWPbwO7zJfSif52oyBVDfz-kKSdDIH08ddZ6BRiW-jQjWNyPIvsxvei5lPOho6iJt8e-IcXQcp_jrdF/s400/spray.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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It works fine without anything except hot glue around the edges, though!<br />
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Then, you can put your border up the same way OR hot glue your border straight on the fabric.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4VVSYZTmJjYvcvfWwcAdd_-c0qLSiRPmDN1Px76uGAE4_qqFZdgHopK5N9P_gYcmZ246GjRasW927HiWkJHJrpGDn6tKFs1qvcQdCPQ5tVCXaGXyDc64kzfBU4Ttg5V4iZAiem9_ZvbY/s1600/finishedboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4VVSYZTmJjYvcvfWwcAdd_-c0qLSiRPmDN1Px76uGAE4_qqFZdgHopK5N9P_gYcmZ246GjRasW927HiWkJHJrpGDn6tKFs1qvcQdCPQ5tVCXaGXyDc64kzfBU4Ttg5V4iZAiem9_ZvbY/s400/finishedboard.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Now you have a brand new bulletin board and less ugly cinderblock wall!</div>
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Please excuse the hot mess below the board. It is going to be dealt with soon. ;)</div>
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Happy Friday!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-16240244748665750132013-08-15T09:23:00.000-04:002013-08-15T09:43:21.155-04:00Teacher Week: Taming the Wild!<br />
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I didn't get a chance to link up yesterday because vacation got in the way. Sad story, right? :)<br />
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<a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/2013/08/teacher-week-taming-wild.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jnQZy2CIQSgC4vH1zCRFzKLx3v_Zo6m-4HmPJ8137KhucjlREPDG041THW4bXSaZ_xUod-IsNphgZiQIDt51u8Z4zipxiA_9w28XorUPetn9qQvkJKwSoWExfUBksgKLhGZWV34TwxS9/s200/teacherweek2.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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I'm back bright and early this morning, though, and I promise I do have some posts lined up to show you lots of instructional organization so just check back in the near future. I am especially excited to show you my new organization for word study sorts!</div>
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But today...is "taming the wild" day! Ha! Love it! Classroom management is one of my favorite topics and (I think) one of my strengths. I believe in setting high expectations for behavior and I find that my kiddos usually follow. When everything is under control and everyone is being NICE...then we can have FUN and be silly!</div>
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Here are some of my tips and tricks for classroom management. I usually keep a few things in place all year and just add in some others when we need something fresh and exciting...or when I find something on Pinterest that I have to try! ;)<br />
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Our guidance counselor is pretty much AWESOME and supports a school wide bucket filling program to go along with this book.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DpAT_Y8OJaPGCHx2c2fbuwXMuh23tWwKKv8CBVaOlVjs_sC-XMxKMerzyU9leQ54rsDYQIi_npzMIxNM5gvlBWeb_w_9guFiYBzcc-IT9EPZc6OcCVhz1rO2PtY7rGzu4ytzCjwf1LIK/s1600/bucketbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1DpAT_Y8OJaPGCHx2c2fbuwXMuh23tWwKKv8CBVaOlVjs_sC-XMxKMerzyU9leQ54rsDYQIi_npzMIxNM5gvlBWeb_w_9guFiYBzcc-IT9EPZc6OcCVhz1rO2PtY7rGzu4ytzCjwf1LIK/s1600/bucketbook.jpg" /></a></div>
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I seriously love this book. I'm sure you've seen it...but if, by chance, you haven't...it is a MUST read!</div>
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Any time I want to reward the entire class for good choices and "bucket filling" behavior, I put marbles in their bucket. Our counselor takes care of awarding stars for full buckets and rewarding them in small ways.</div>
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I'm going to focus my post on what I do in the classroom.<br />
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First of all...I only have 3 rules in my classroom. I can fit anything under one of these rules!</div>
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Check out <a href="http://whathappensinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2013/08/guess-what.html">this post</a> to find our more about my rules and grab a free copy of them.</div>
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I pass out these tickets from Creative Teaching Press all day long for good behavior. Especially at the beginning of the year...ANYTHING positive gets a ticket.</div>
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And I mean anything. The kids collect these tickets (cute container pictures to come!) and each week...if they have 10 tickets, they get to trade in their 10 tickets for one of these red tickets and they write their name on it and put it in our "raffle basket."</div>
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Each month, we do a big raffle drawing with the red tickets for prizes. The prizes range anywhere from Dollar Tree <strike>junk</strike> treasures to "lunch bunch" and "bring a stuffed animal to school day" coupons to free books from Scholastic bonus points, etc.</div>
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I have just collected ideas from YOUR blogs and Pinterest for ideas that will work in my classroom for the drawings. My kids' favorite things to win are things that don't cost me any money...like "stinky feet" coupons where they get to take their shoes off all day in the classroom. Works for me!</div>
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I think they key to this kind of classroom management system is to be very liberal with the tickets at first and make a HUGE deal about it when they are dispersed. They really like earning tickets and keeping count of them. I keep some in my pocket to hand out, but I also have them loose in a basket near my desk so if I'm working with a small group and see one teeny tiny little sweet soul doing what they're supposed to be doing while the rest of the class acts like wild hyenas...I can very sweetly say "Oh...wow! Look at Austin sitting quietly and setting up his math game for his partner. Austin...go get yourself a ticket. THANK YOU!"</div>
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And I don't have to get up. Which is good.</div>
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I also LOVE the math that I hear going on as they collect them too.</div>
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"I have 6, so I need 4 more to make 10."</div>
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YES! YES! YES!</div>
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I know you're wondering...and YES, I do take the tickets occasionally for negative behaviors.</div>
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'Cause I'm a big fat meanie.</div>
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I don't take them often, but sometimes it's absolutely necessary...and sometimes I'm in a bad mood. There. I said it.</div>
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The other thing I like about this kind of system is that their whole day isn't judged by where they are on a chart or what "color" they landed on at the end of the day. That totally works for a lot of classrooms and I have been itching to make a cute clipchart and give it a whirl...but if it ain't broke...don't fix it...right?? And this works for me!</div>
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So what else can my little darlings do to earn tickets?</div>
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Wellllll....check out <a href="http://whathappensinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2013/06/freebie-friday.html">this post</a> to get more info on "Mystery Walker" and "Secret Student" AND to get your free copy of these posters for your classroom.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDw7M5HVy_3f0CRiRSJophlIF0e1WCLv78sfwKqSVMGqRCKdz3n2wVOAi80rvLDaf5H9j62XN_u7qZLiQiwwfyZE8or2QwWHylDAg64UC58ujZ5GQ_ILDMEB3X1zLLdwjAVBxihFG7brsN/s1600/mysterywalker+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDw7M5HVy_3f0CRiRSJophlIF0e1WCLv78sfwKqSVMGqRCKdz3n2wVOAi80rvLDaf5H9j62XN_u7qZLiQiwwfyZE8or2QwWHylDAg64UC58ujZ5GQ_ILDMEB3X1zLLdwjAVBxihFG7brsN/s320/mysterywalker+sign.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDg_yWZuu7qWslP6dakiOdmV-mLO-b7N4ZQp4RFGA0tqiekfzOFWL4HLAEpCdvUxpX_2HJ1sYepyy8q_V2SBhJVnv3amyIDjg7htYv3JvA8S21MGVjMCy5vRGnUHhjJMHoV7npkGtYnw-x/s1600/secretstudent+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDg_yWZuu7qWslP6dakiOdmV-mLO-b7N4ZQp4RFGA0tqiekfzOFWL4HLAEpCdvUxpX_2HJ1sYepyy8q_V2SBhJVnv3amyIDjg7htYv3JvA8S21MGVjMCy5vRGnUHhjJMHoV7npkGtYnw-x/s320/secretstudent+sign.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Both of these ideas work basically the same way. One is for hallway behavior and the other is for any ol' thing. I've even used "secret student" for school assemblies and field trip.</div>
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You choose a student's name and don't tell anyone who it is. You watch that person closely...and they only get their ticket if they did a PERFECT job on whatever task you were watching. </div>
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And lastly, a NEW thing I'm trying this year are "quiet critters." I'm sure you've seen a version of this on Pinterest, and I have no idea where the original source came from...but if you search for "quiet critters" on Pinterest you will find tons of ideas! I can't stand constantly saying "Shhh" but sometimes it's important that my kids work silently...especially if I'm doing testing, etc. with another student.</div>
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Most of the pictures I've seen on Pinterest use little pom poms for critters...but I found these ADORABLE little plush monsters on Amazon that I am going to use. Click the picture for the link.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fun-Express-IN-6-1385-Plush-Monsters/dp/B0035RRPU8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376572086&sr=8-1&keywords=plush+monsters"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVd4otK72-0aS_AEDZ6D6pVRphS7cyPEOd-_Hb6-CpXdkIUsVLIqZjdbK3ROi22PR_78dJZYWykHX0XCszQOdD8K2L0-FzSZBS4mjRl1SIv0ISgsnTShff7wDLJg_gpIuvpaR4SZRpVEX/s320/monsters.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm going to use these little monsters for times when the kids truly must be silent. Everybody gets a quiet critter to start with, and if they make noise...bye bye monster. Sad!</div>
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At the end of the activity, whoever has a monster left on their desk will get a ticket.</div>
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I will let you know how this works since this is new for me...if anyone else has tried it...how does it work?</div>
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OK...beach time!</div>
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Happy Teacher Week! Can't wait to read up and find some new ideas. :)</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-79672434061347369372013-08-13T09:02:00.002-04:002013-08-15T09:23:50.686-04:00Teacher Week 2013: Classroom Sneak Peak<div style="text-align: center;">
This is probably my favorite day of teacher week! I just love looking in other people's classrooms! </div>
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<a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/2013/08/teacher-week-classroom-digs.html"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0ef5Ml2-CBoxokRVpp4suV8Nq_bRKLnGbz5GrgkiEdyccc1quf35ovWvwln7SdN5MFqd56IwMQCCEeeDokjiECSqx5YyhFp-St49qxO_F4tEUAllI3yzKfh6m8oClkuW-opgB6yEiDGy/s320/teacherweek2013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My classroom is nowhere near finished! I will share what I have but I'll be back later to show you the finished product!</div>
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I took some pictures last week before I left but I still have a lot to do. I have worked more this summer than I usually do because I was on a mission to get rid of every single monkey/jungle thing! I've been hanging with the monkeys for 6 years and it was just time for them to go. I decided to go without a "theme" so that maybe I won't get tired of it quickly. I think my theme now is just bright colors and patterns! I know some people probably think it is too bright and crazy but I believe in organized chaos! I think if everything has its place and your room is neat and organized....you can go a little crazy with colors! I just made that rule up as I was typing. I like it. I'm sticking to it. My house is neutral city so I think my classroom is my little outlet for my love of all things bright!</div>
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I am incorporating a little bit of the "boho birds" collection from <a href="http://www.carsondellosa.com/cd2/SearchCatalog.aspx?k=boho+birds">Carson Dellosa</a> and "tweeting birds" collection from <a href="http://www.creativeteaching.com/products/tweeting-birds-10-jumbo-designer-cut-outs">Creative Teaching Press</a> to pull everything together. It's funny because I really don't like birds in real life but as you can see from my blog...I adore little pink, cartoon birds. </div>
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OK.....I'm just procrastinating because I don't want to show you my unfinished room. Don't judge. ;)</div>
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Classroom library needs labels and some TLC</div>
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Writing table and my teacher area...plus the "word wall to be"</div>
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A closer look at my teacher area...needing labels!</div>
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Front of the room...needs a lot of work. The yellow frames at the top ready to be filled with math word wall cards and word work "chunks."</div>
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The meeting area with smartboard where most of my whole group teaching takes place. The green chevron board in the back is going to be full of anchor charts and projects that we are working on throughout the year. The pillow on the floor in the back will be around a little black table for reading and partner work.</div>
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Squint your eyes and pretend that those math manipulative boxes are on a pretty blue shelf that the hubs is making me. ;) That door is the bathroom door waiting to be decorated. The yellow curtains hide guided reading materials and more math manipulatives and LOTS of TPT products and games in manilla envelopes! The blue drawers hold work work materials like wiki stix, stamps, a mini sandbox, shaving cream, letter cubes, etc.</div>
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This is my guided reading/math table for small group instruction. The blue polka dot board in the back is the back of my supply shelf and will hold reading strategies (magnetic).</div>
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This is our community supply shelf as you walk in the door...ready to be filled with brand new supplies...makes my teacher heart happy! Everything is ready for some cute labels...on my to do list next week!</div>
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That's all for now. Come back soon for a finished version! Don't forget to link up with Blog Hoppin' to get in on all the fun this week. I'm off to the beach...can't wait to look in all of the beautiful classrooms this evening!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-51176123487785297402013-08-12T17:18:00.003-04:002013-08-12T20:16:24.691-04:00Teacher Week 2013: Ten Random Tidbits about ME!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I looove teacher week! We are squeezing in one last summer vacation right now, so this post is going to be short and sweet but I did not want to miss out on the party! </div>
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I also LOVE my new blog design. Thank you, thank you, thank you to Kassie at The Cutest Blog on the Block for giving my blog a little one year anniversary makeover!</div>
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Here are 5 random tidbits about ME:</div>
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1. I got married in May in the Outer Banks. It was the most fun thing I've ever done! We rented a gigantic house and all of our family and closest friends stayed with us. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect, laid back way to start our lives together! The whole event was so "us."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnuYnKFc11beDo8WlLoM9h2Mn_FITu3qGMP2307owEFOWKEQCxvP8vUR3n8iPnht_3dbHqsuwlfxRA4svHJf2lILT_m5-b9QCbbNdRzcGVrSfua1CWvrI-fn5jEcPX0-78T5W0uAZuyI/s1600/Web+Size+Images+-224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnuYnKFc11beDo8WlLoM9h2Mn_FITu3qGMP2307owEFOWKEQCxvP8vUR3n8iPnht_3dbHqsuwlfxRA4svHJf2lILT_m5-b9QCbbNdRzcGVrSfua1CWvrI-fn5jEcPX0-78T5W0uAZuyI/s400/Web+Size+Images+-224.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrbyaDHRevr5jzZtkaB0ahN4etoDq-5RZpRBwmqty3IauG6sqWiwjDI4YBftX3uwzb6YJ059XoP1ibZ_VsJQc9WcckFj-AG7C07A4itIyKUtqTnmGJgZnUIdHmhfqWaaAwtSq1Wpi3gs/s1600/Web+Size+Images+-683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrbyaDHRevr5jzZtkaB0ahN4etoDq-5RZpRBwmqty3IauG6sqWiwjDI4YBftX3uwzb6YJ059XoP1ibZ_VsJQc9WcckFj-AG7C07A4itIyKUtqTnmGJgZnUIdHmhfqWaaAwtSq1Wpi3gs/s400/Web+Size+Images+-683.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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*Another fun fact: My older brother got ordained online and married us because we didn't want a stranger at the beach to do the ceremony! He now has the nickname "Rev". :)</div>
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2. My husband's name is Andy. He's a firefighter in the same city where I teach. We have a dog, Sawyer, who we treat like a child. He was even part of the wedding!</div>
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Sawyer is completely spoiled rotten.</div>
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3. My dad was the principal at my high school. It wasn't as bad as it may sound because I was a pretty good kid (had to be, right?!). I wish I was at home to share a high school picture, but I'll just have to leave the awkwardness to your imagination.</div>
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4. In high school and college, people used to get my best friend and I mixed up all.the.time. It was ridiculous. We get it less often now...but what do you think? Twins or no? </div>
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This is us during our freshman year at Virginia Tech. Go Hokies!</div>
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And now...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXxaDos6Q7vK_nADphuG-xvlC7DakxL6l81Thu1O8EavBlR77VYkB7YmSUSWxlV8QRNQIH_pJGTlUZalTl_QFjc963gnS04tHWNT0cy9SFhla_MTjzN4XFqpGq2tSH16H3mH9Cn7ibXk/s1600/Web+Size+Images+-726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXxaDos6Q7vK_nADphuG-xvlC7DakxL6l81Thu1O8EavBlR77VYkB7YmSUSWxlV8QRNQIH_pJGTlUZalTl_QFjc963gnS04tHWNT0cy9SFhla_MTjzN4XFqpGq2tSH16H3mH9Cn7ibXk/s400/Web+Size+Images+-726.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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Maegan is in Uganda serving as a missionary since January and I miss her SO daggone much!</div>
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5. Andy and I hope to have children of our own in the future but for right now we LOVE lovin' on our friends' babies and our precious nieces and nephew.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vNxKlULdXe4zNqSCXAH7cisgOSnBMzjXfxOZ59exeMPcHG5u4dtT0A1egCZW_epEg1QmYQXQVtTqCAHPs21KmxD9Q_tO4i3GVR2Rj250-gL4VO91nI2IMUue-z6VyNEY0hlBjRjy5j0/s1600/lia2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vNxKlULdXe4zNqSCXAH7cisgOSnBMzjXfxOZ59exeMPcHG5u4dtT0A1egCZW_epEg1QmYQXQVtTqCAHPs21KmxD9Q_tO4i3GVR2Rj250-gL4VO91nI2IMUue-z6VyNEY0hlBjRjy5j0/s320/lia2013.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2n_5ANoqJav1io4Ebj1jeDHduObu2_Qry_U0FY6SJvjognhh_gfPcKJOnfq95hvm6SAR_yrrIrUMAV0C57QgFIFSqiQXCBnxJM5fPSvIfWFc24ImVaKH_CB1mB3epHNQF7NeDKG3cjU/s1600/hadleigh2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2n_5ANoqJav1io4Ebj1jeDHduObu2_Qry_U0FY6SJvjognhh_gfPcKJOnfq95hvm6SAR_yrrIrUMAV0C57QgFIFSqiQXCBnxJM5fPSvIfWFc24ImVaKH_CB1mB3epHNQF7NeDKG3cjU/s320/hadleigh2013.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Cuteness overload!</div>
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6. I've seen Bon Jovi concerts in 4 different cities. Maegan and I may been considered groupies for a short time. We actually traveled to Denver to see him one time (from Virginia...wow) and it was totally worth it because we had front row seats. No one believes me except Maegan, but Jon Bon Jovi did indeed blow me a kiss at one of the concerts. And I liked it.</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfWDYn9l96ZPHbODBTiPSzcEIAcFxOUvhfkqdEcfmpd2KEXzmMKfVHOzlN1jKonFApjQ5LzIiCvgmz0VntHCd7BmuLwrxzQ4VwOrAeABKWggMaYQn-pqvOn-N01xVmU0AzSlOFwBcgXds7/s400/withourman.jpg" width="266" /></div>
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7. I met M.C. Hammer when I was a little kid in an elevator in Richmond.</div>
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8. If I go to a restaurant and they have fish tacos on the menu...there is a 95% chance that is what I will order. My favorite fish tacos of all time are from a little place in Blacksburg, VA called "Cabo Fish Taco."</div>
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9. I wish I could draw. Even my stick figures are sad. :(</div>
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10. My favorite place in the world to be is at the beach! Which is where I am now...which is why I need to get off of the computer. :)</div>
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Don't forget to link up and check back all week for fun teacher week posts!</div>
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<a href="http://imbloghoppin.blogspot.com/2013/08/teacher-week-13-lets-talk-about-me.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VUqF48GjYd4chO9iixbxJakEhhvRuPFhfFSWhM5NpbvLYuzaXqcNnA6MZBo6VsVNtlqGusvVhpm4D653G6519zF5BkXTzhY65sWZKkqikskBv2RABetp9ajMhyphenhyphen6OkxmU2WZ5yaECwnY/s320/teacherweek2.png" width="320" /></a><br />
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Happy Back to School!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-49818320988082542692013-08-05T21:37:00.000-04:002013-08-12T12:23:20.665-04:00Guess what?<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a new blog design that will be unveiled VERY soon I hope. I'm so darn excited. Here's a little sneaky peeky...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-_wiIlpzbpDfK3oHzIF-seg6674Hx0wbXra2Ao4RC8HrcL86lDSaTyaQb2O9JdIg3UYGJSed2Ykp1o1E_yweip1sqpMVYqxp35MV7qkr0SZGN7e4z_Dw7RRXWM94WlotV0cVPR4nAU4PL/s1600/what+happens+in+first+grade+background.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-_wiIlpzbpDfK3oHzIF-seg6674Hx0wbXra2Ao4RC8HrcL86lDSaTyaQb2O9JdIg3UYGJSed2Ykp1o1E_yweip1sqpMVYqxp35MV7qkr0SZGN7e4z_Dw7RRXWM94WlotV0cVPR4nAU4PL/s400/what+happens+in+first+grade+background.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cuteness!</div>
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Stay tuned, friends!</div>
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I haven't been able to get back in my classroom for a few days but I've been working a little bit at home and my favorite finds this week were these lightweight, bright frames at Michael's! They were buy one get one free PLUS the sweet lady at the register had a coupon for 20% off instead of my 15% teacher discount. Woohoo! I love them and I think (hope!) they're lightweight enough to stick on the wall with a command hook.</div>
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Everything looks better framed, am I right? I obviously couldn't afford to frame everything on my walls so I decided to frame the rules and motivational posters. Here is a start on that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVjf3shtX3S5oLQyKHAKkHx1PyYhxYkKBFFyHxf95a3_bI6Rsqcp0gUzpCyzcrj5U1Xa148H7uf1Vq7IWtfT9mxyg1s17CkrwtQybbMJA6RLUrELVlZEKG4v-s1UpiB9wjDPhqnaTS95Qo/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVjf3shtX3S5oLQyKHAKkHx1PyYhxYkKBFFyHxf95a3_bI6Rsqcp0gUzpCyzcrj5U1Xa148H7uf1Vq7IWtfT9mxyg1s17CkrwtQybbMJA6RLUrELVlZEKG4v-s1UpiB9wjDPhqnaTS95Qo/s400/IMG_1759.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Click the links to be taken to the original source if you like these posters.</div>
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<a href="http://www.swtblessings.com/2013/05/if-you-cant-be-kind.html">If You Can't Be Kind, Be Quiet</a> (Can I get an amen?)</div>
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<a href="http://www.swtblessings.com/search/label/printables?updated-max=2012-03-28T11:11:00-05:00&max-results=20&start=27&by-date=false">Be Kind. No Exceptions.</a></div>
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And the class rules were made by yours truly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f8g5ACxqlUkoEb6tULzjZ-LXmGsKvKSgU0pfjy9cydWnTpuOIQk8cTxovNh2zLcTAssV_kXGFPQjLuIKUkKQaxUIzxceTwNxiDJoCR42PEL2yuBwb7rFXIqqXuxx8aGkERwLibWhYVJi/s1600/classrulespic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f8g5ACxqlUkoEb6tULzjZ-LXmGsKvKSgU0pfjy9cydWnTpuOIQk8cTxovNh2zLcTAssV_kXGFPQjLuIKUkKQaxUIzxceTwNxiDJoCR42PEL2yuBwb7rFXIqqXuxx8aGkERwLibWhYVJi/s400/classrulespic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I actually posted <a href="http://whathappensinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2013/07/sunday-randomness-some-winners.html">a different one a couple weeks ago</a> and I changed my mind on the color scheme (big shocker!) so...you are welcome to grab yourself a copy of either one if you want them!</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77WmFQbkpFcXVrb3M/edit?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSFavoyGZ3zAL5ClgSZZpOfJiGMg8-huQE_WASFVGNrxGcRDPSPXxnairB_EHK8dpwO_SaQnb2IIqYvUhKtb1StNsWbtlGjaMVltAyViWSJ8qa5KXn_pR6hgdbpJzNO0XbaOYK0h5QyrS7/s400/classrulesposter2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77WmFQbkpFcXVrb3M/edit?usp=sharing">Click here to download.</a></div>
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I like to keep my class rules short and sweet. I let the kids have input on what kind of rules they want in the classroom on the first day of school...but for some reason they always get bogged down in things that pertain to physical violence and gross stuff. Is that just my kids?</div>
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If I took all of their ideas, we would have 6,972 rules. </div>
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1. No hitting</div>
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2. No pushing</div>
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3. No kicking</div>
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4. No spitting in other people's food in the lunchroom (an actual one from one of my kiddos from last year)</div>
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5. No biting</div>
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6. No calling people "cry babies" even if they are (no...I couldn't make this stuff up)</div>
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etc. etc. etc. etc.</div>
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You get the picture. So...I still get their input, but I have these 3 ready to rock because let's be honest I can slide any transgression into one of these categories. I'm good like that.</div>
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Pretty sure spitting in other people's food qualifies as not being kind and respectful. Just saying.</div>
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Last but not least, I've been working on a little "Back to Basics" math and literacy pack and it's up and ready to go! This is full of activities (whole group, small group, individual work, and partner games) that I plan to use to review basic skills with my first graders at the beginning of the year. It would be perfect for kindergarten and Pre-K all year long. I also plan to keep these activities handy to use for intervention as needed throughout the year in my first grade classroom.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Basics-Math-Literacy-Pack-808264"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTniWcIRniiBtv2eB9_RtuxiMDifsAkn_AnJeOTWuTModxbpIxBExjVKWcXX67aaHVdtBVYJOB9j6G3wVesZoz7tItJRB4IHuSnypT5AsJSyEfsGT6uhM9jShlgQaDL0ep3OCWSKPFLaXz/s640/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Language Arts Skills:</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">first day writing template</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-alphabet letter cards (lowercase)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-alphabet letter cards (capital)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-letter sounds picture cards (26 plus ch/sh/th)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-beginning sound assessment & answer key</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-CVC picture cards</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-CVC word cards</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-"write around the room" CVC activity and/or assessment</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-missing letter CVC assessment and/or guided practice</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-DRAW IT (CVC word version)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-DRAW IT (CVC sentence version)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-rhyming picture match/pocket chart cards</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-"No Nonsense" real vs. nonsense word rhyming activity</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-rhyming sentence challenge activity</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Basics-Math-Literacy-Pack-808264"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGIzI9AHEzyxOPbVSom6OUwbic90wk-Y1hCDMtEfZXTy-Fg1VETb5JGr8gL05NzSLJwcL2y6s5N3d-koby4MhJhKI0m2K2yvO6oq7dsEnUaHsB2VrlSAg8j5S6LjoUlnl1e-_fJh33Ryr/s640/Slide2.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Math Skills:<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-"A Number Book" (students illustrate simple sentences to show mastery of one to one correspondence with simple pictures)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">(numbers 1-10)-"Adios Monsters" dice game & recording sheet</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-"Spin it to Win it" card/unifix cube game (numbers 0-20)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-"It's All About the Dots" subitizing cards...perfect for number talks!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-"Fill it Up" card game (numbers 1-30)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">-colorful number cards 1-30</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">It is ON SALE for 5 bucks this week. :) Check out the preview <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Basics-Math-Literacy-Pack-808264">here</a> if you're interested!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #313131; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">I'd also love to GIVE IT AWAY to the first 5 readers that head over to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhatHappensInFirstGrade?ref=hl">facebook page</a> and leave me a comment there telling me you could use it! </span></div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-40925904335539019722013-07-19T22:42:00.000-04:002013-07-19T22:42:34.065-04:00Classroom Sneak Peak & Scrap Fabric Banner Tutorial<div style="text-align: center;">
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I got the itch to start working in my classroom this week. The spare bedroom was filled to the brim with "stuff" that needed to go to my classroom so I packed up my car and went in on Monday morning expecting it to be 120 degrees in my room. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the AC was on (thank you summer school)! So, I stayed longer than I had originally planned and got some things put back.</div>
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Here is what I walked into on Monday morning. Yikes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPl6MDK3qZiGOqSNiLkFj1GT60w3dOjkgcBUThyXBDaY1SOEefTRbpKhwiAz8bzzlsPeSTR2BN-aJAUlMSYkbCgY3YZSNkk8iwjrye1BQdwZE_3SHjNO0lWpEgmCr3YS0lEoNQAOgYnRh/s1600/IMAG0713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPl6MDK3qZiGOqSNiLkFj1GT60w3dOjkgcBUThyXBDaY1SOEefTRbpKhwiAz8bzzlsPeSTR2BN-aJAUlMSYkbCgY3YZSNkk8iwjrye1BQdwZE_3SHjNO0lWpEgmCr3YS0lEoNQAOgYnRh/s400/IMAG0713.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've had a "jungle" theme for the past few years and each year monkeys have slowly started to disappear. Bless their hearts. They're cute but I got tired of them about 2 years ago but couldn't justify spending the money to completely re-do everything. I finally decided that I'd built up enough bright, colorful decor to make THAT my theme. </div>
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The last reminder of "the jungle" was the vine hanging in the meeting area. I decided to replace that with a black and bright, whimsical rag banner. I kept seeing them popping up on Pinterest...mostly as photography backdrops and party decorations. I decided that I could whip one up faster than cutting out triangles for a pennant. I am am impatient crafter and I'm really, really bad at measuring things. Eek.</div>
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I can't even describe how easy this was and I'm thrilled with the final product! I had a LOT of fabric left over from various unfinished projects and I ordered some more (chevron...duh!) on fabric.com! They have an awesome selection.</div>
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So I ended up with a ton of playful patterns and colors to work with.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd72gNK32rK2un2YnprvHZ75rmSaTkLf57XSHlTQhZ6gvIwfKgYqyzMeoeS7AbIHtQe2RNWD0WGJVrOmDDr0LIAtCSEUNbdmf2-4OE3Qwu013TbZdUlxbWrZ-4sFC9qul__nLkQWNm5oSA/s1600/IMG_1694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd72gNK32rK2un2YnprvHZ75rmSaTkLf57XSHlTQhZ6gvIwfKgYqyzMeoeS7AbIHtQe2RNWD0WGJVrOmDDr0LIAtCSEUNbdmf2-4OE3Qwu013TbZdUlxbWrZ-4sFC9qul__nLkQWNm5oSA/s320/IMG_1694.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The best part of this project was NO MEAURING required. The strips do not have to be uniform or perfect. In fact, I think it is better if they're not. That's what I tell myself, anyway.</div>
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I used some decorative black cord from Hobby Lobby to string the fabric. If I was using this for a party in my house or for photography or something...I think twine would look adorable, but the black worked best with my classroom colors.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-Js1cd0BQLOMka53GFbLloOYZ0JsqlvtkrRgn_D7UM10VqvP4SMFBtLbBDMDOCDDwpBJb8Kljdp0A-HBHKZzB9tiaRsHUD6rLBIGdfh-pdEQkdZDAyTcSKzOYIICZYniUIAMcJA32ZSP/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG-Js1cd0BQLOMka53GFbLloOYZ0JsqlvtkrRgn_D7UM10VqvP4SMFBtLbBDMDOCDDwpBJb8Kljdp0A-HBHKZzB9tiaRsHUD6rLBIGdfh-pdEQkdZDAyTcSKzOYIICZYniUIAMcJA32ZSP/s640/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just cut strips, lay them out, and get ready to tie!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigi-OnoSzr9y56v8PODjbJXcVSY8Klz79NvYwVLFmQSeGJZABGpSDk4tMd6ZxSybopqp02UKdzGsK1Je_WnIaV_5q-QMJIuMTXJxlltgFApi8cURy5lD29uMdb9yIZgCZcQo2dWBptAQL/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigi-OnoSzr9y56v8PODjbJXcVSY8Klz79NvYwVLFmQSeGJZABGpSDk4tMd6ZxSybopqp02UKdzGsK1Je_WnIaV_5q-QMJIuMTXJxlltgFApi8cURy5lD29uMdb9yIZgCZcQo2dWBptAQL/s400/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I tried to show you how I tied the "knots" but it was hard with one hand on the camera. ;) Basically I folded the strip in half. Put the "open" ends on the top and pull the "closed" end through the hole and then just pull it snug. The end result was a knot that looked sort of like a man's tie. My fabric was not double sided, so I just pulled on it and arranged it so the pretty side was facing out for the most part. The cutting and tying combined took about 2 hours. I made two really long banners.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqckNJD78ylpOWXq6nmBs6s3_nmHuUo1iCs0jTnt6-RiFTG2PDaQzL_USC0O9IDJ6yBnGEVjKT4benoVXAfJF-sqrTEwTiOnaqUg5CiT8VmkzcqbTpLCPRfMcQ_YO0Q68v4NFTZgIvRub/s1600/finished.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqckNJD78ylpOWXq6nmBs6s3_nmHuUo1iCs0jTnt6-RiFTG2PDaQzL_USC0O9IDJ6yBnGEVjKT4benoVXAfJF-sqrTEwTiOnaqUg5CiT8VmkzcqbTpLCPRfMcQ_YO0Q68v4NFTZgIvRub/s400/finished.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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So easy. So cute.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZF-56WwRCu-i4tcQyht6E5ZOsREU35Hl5chOST8A05vh5bfvWW0_kQh1oZ9FkaZ9GD_K7_Hj6mhXpjWYv8ms6QjVeMmuiDHW0U_0Xl1QbvdtONDJKdLGcWca3Br6DCzWrvGmeY7hfEHBO/s1600/tada.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZF-56WwRCu-i4tcQyht6E5ZOsREU35Hl5chOST8A05vh5bfvWW0_kQh1oZ9FkaZ9GD_K7_Hj6mhXpjWYv8ms6QjVeMmuiDHW0U_0Xl1QbvdtONDJKdLGcWca3Br6DCzWrvGmeY7hfEHBO/s400/tada.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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And her's my little fashion model posing with the finished product.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx6mDXKIHb32a500xWiiPinmTSQ6SPpz5xxalMrglhkR879VAHhYfUQkSUCFTv0QiI6n1Muq0HjXUN9Yz33USJ5FbcRWOghK2VQfX0aZrrBeNjzUlstBriWtKZL_KcQbha7OHoF6tZFoNc/s1600/IMAG0724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx6mDXKIHb32a500xWiiPinmTSQ6SPpz5xxalMrglhkR879VAHhYfUQkSUCFTv0QiI6n1Muq0HjXUN9Yz33USJ5FbcRWOghK2VQfX0aZrrBeNjzUlstBriWtKZL_KcQbha7OHoF6tZFoNc/s640/IMAG0724.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And ta-da! Here it is hanging in my classroom. Please ignore the crummy quality and everything else in the photo. Good grief. I still have a lot of work to do...but no more jungle vine!</div>
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I have some more fun projects planned for that pretty fabric...stay tuned!</div>
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Now, I have a pajama party planned with my laminator. Friday night...what else would I do? </div>
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Happy Summer to you!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-26392249697768972162013-07-12T13:49:00.000-04:002013-07-12T13:49:02.067-04:00Favorite Pins Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLkNEVM4OBJJpuQ7Cet_UIGidg8csAKritzOb7AC239QQf2sDRgXbeTou3bEq_UgR0PQW2Y932Lks1x5UHYFFN5Ub6BC5ztQmMIOLn81-sY0sU7OkTMkf1a6bnJ566mo28VK2ZpU3M7Lt8/s1600/FavoritePinsButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLkNEVM4OBJJpuQ7Cet_UIGidg8csAKritzOb7AC239QQf2sDRgXbeTou3bEq_UgR0PQW2Y932Lks1x5UHYFFN5Ub6BC5ztQmMIOLn81-sY0sU7OkTMkf1a6bnJ566mo28VK2ZpU3M7Lt8/s200/FavoritePinsButton.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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I love this linky party because I've been a pinning machine this summer! Thanks, sweet <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/07/favorite-pins-friday_12.html">Cara</a>! It makes me feel productive without really doing anything. ;) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq93JoUT4uRKYQk-oq9zjcmK2b8ZWy251iiweTXCrM6qTR3JQTqShSyap-vnOHk21Ddw7_qH3Y66yRRc_ABFeLQyOS8J3BU-ys4UGuoZfFMtW_oPtzMMDYDk4fpT9LLQBup0ggfb11AB-I/s1600/pinningprofessionaldevelopment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq93JoUT4uRKYQk-oq9zjcmK2b8ZWy251iiweTXCrM6qTR3JQTqShSyap-vnOHk21Ddw7_qH3Y66yRRc_ABFeLQyOS8J3BU-ys4UGuoZfFMtW_oPtzMMDYDk4fpT9LLQBup0ggfb11AB-I/s320/pinningprofessionaldevelopment.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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YES...it should.</div>
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Here are some of my latest favorites...</div>
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Painter's tape to make handwriting lines...easy and useful!</div>
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(the link was bad on this one...let me know if it's yours so I can give credit where credit is due!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksCgFWxiGC-HaUxG4dtgacW889upgxxh6znsI_AcWAOaMJdkzczaanpPQKJyoY8k3PZcgYTqb3F6oNPvBpObyVD7PT4T7JVkIkYbkeLUB8sbnBpaWfJre2C95GMwFey4LRxlsCnBrEuY5/s1600/board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksCgFWxiGC-HaUxG4dtgacW889upgxxh6znsI_AcWAOaMJdkzczaanpPQKJyoY8k3PZcgYTqb3F6oNPvBpObyVD7PT4T7JVkIkYbkeLUB8sbnBpaWfJre2C95GMwFey4LRxlsCnBrEuY5/s1600/board.jpg" /></a></div>
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I am skeptical that 24 will fit in a soapbox but Pinterest says yes...so it must be so! I'm hoping I can find a pack of 3 at the Dollar Tree?!?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXB3ulxu1Jiw5Yq5oy2Eoyd-uz9NIYNt0O50tRUwKXB-am3WzAglZcM2ep8UUCO364NRQ-NPurZfAjr6w9dUe9fLN6p0Yf4dDOzrKyl9vXA6UfxPuSR9DIVTkcVK2WlZmmuEDTi0j1wJ_X/s1600/crayonsoapbox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXB3ulxu1Jiw5Yq5oy2Eoyd-uz9NIYNt0O50tRUwKXB-am3WzAglZcM2ep8UUCO364NRQ-NPurZfAjr6w9dUe9fLN6p0Yf4dDOzrKyl9vXA6UfxPuSR9DIVTkcVK2WlZmmuEDTi0j1wJ_X/s1600/crayonsoapbox.jpg" /></a></div>
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I am afraid to print this yet, for fear it will suck the rest of my precious black ink out...but I love it and plan to display it in my classroom this year and refer to it often. It reminds of Bambi when Thumper says "My momma always told me...if you can't say nothin' nice, don't say nothin' at all." So true!</div>
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<a href="http://www.swtblessings.com/2013/05/if-you-cant-be-kind.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZOb6megtjzUFlvKsWGKrcnv0bev2IzF_SCp2n4tnz8PA-iMjG33_ZG26GeU3Dp1xU7uxqobhfC_PTVMinYfJN83otYQQ5qA1CpXxkgkc75KNRRkBFGaTfohKsfhlQueTimJuRaMllmio/s320/sign.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Click the image to find the original source!</div>
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Here is a dreamy little pin for my pretend beach house. ;) This looks like the PERFECT room for afternoon napping.</div>
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<a href="http://www.coastalliving.com/homes/decorating/beautiful-beach-cottages-00414000071433/page19.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFHpjd0ItB2Z5B65h8vI2YEtoblbFwQCeCLxbAGY2Dv1OXK7EMONOwyPj9KpDar6BYZPBERGITTVkGLWrrfKOqJJ5DvOUxjz0s3_C2Bhyphenhyphenk708Y5RXUprs1xn3I8EGhKYsu8RJ0uUvVD5Y/s320/room.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And I've been pinning LOTS of ideas for finishing our basement onto my "DIY...or ask Andy to do it" board! :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.houzz.com/curved-ceiling-soffit/ls=4"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYo2gGeUWUGaWNzt0-Vskvt1RqvAhcfOif4lYq1n39SfR3JKdFBINp3n6zKYQJW99zmBeVVAnc9lUV17PI0fC6MSUZBgpBWl9UIFAbmoiXlsyzA_yLQQxf-FF25OE7I4koh09H_tMbxIdd/s320/bar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And last but not least...this pin was titled "hundreds of healthy lunch ideas that don't involve sandwiches." I get in such a rut when I pack lunches for school. I think it's the hardest meal to plan for. I love some of these ideas...and I love that there are pictures! :)</div>
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<a href="http://easylunchboxes.smugmug.com/The-Best-Lunchbox-System/Yummy-Lunch-Ideas/10136835_YSuyb#!i=998960659&k=Q2r3K4x"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZUjrOBd5XvgycIur60NBYrPWlLZWJIGfcFjcyBpN_bgNz7ZHqu_EScZCgRkF5sYkHYjWkTTZgOL4NTLszkex_3HmFbaXb6sTIiY_vwgOBF1Dfo-nwLz-4uujq-jwIe2Y5AtdYdbQPq9L/s320/lunch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you want to see more...<a href="http://pinterest.com/amyj38/">follow me on Pinterest!</a></div>
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Happy Friday & Happy Pinning!</div>
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<br />Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-79381845775764272652013-07-11T17:28:00.001-04:002013-07-19T22:55:11.265-04:00Throwback Thursday Style!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/07/throwback-thursday_11.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvihWo4iT6eiWGuwHvLjT0ToS5v5WjB65ANKNDKu1E6T8Iq9ory4MGYPvHcZOuzgNrOxbFhwAmN0YDsMzR09MVIcVIX8ETYXVq58404oglaf8xrBM6eAG8R3jHIgOdq-dYlPF5zyBdj0A/s200/throwbackthursdaybutton.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I'm linking up with <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/2013/07/throwback-thursday_11.html">Cara at The First Grade Parade</a> today to bring back a short & sweet little post from last September. It includes a freebie that you can go ahead and download and get ready for your new babies this year!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-o9mVoODMwh1OaA9bd4Tepmqg0niz8Ph-70ZcPZiWyYx3TKLIC0NAZLsSssh4kMMoraZw51STWEZpUTU6ElDtX-j60SUnpUix_TrzgX26GQvPkBQaM-LP3xrkkorlWhe0wRJ1tYwWtzg/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-o9mVoODMwh1OaA9bd4Tepmqg0niz8Ph-70ZcPZiWyYx3TKLIC0NAZLsSssh4kMMoraZw51STWEZpUTU6ElDtX-j60SUnpUix_TrzgX26GQvPkBQaM-LP3xrkkorlWhe0wRJ1tYwWtzg/s320/Slide1.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvo1dBsNQR52cyLv3V8QmiwkLXrhYfwulrOY2ykW9U8cj2CRS882VrE6cDmLho-zVh5vfkyubA1bBPcGuHsbXdX7Fj8sjuDKLHHxkg0GGUsx3tCrmm06GJyM5KDl7fzXrzLf6iB82de5I/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvo1dBsNQR52cyLv3V8QmiwkLXrhYfwulrOY2ykW9U8cj2CRS882VrE6cDmLho-zVh5vfkyubA1bBPcGuHsbXdX7Fj8sjuDKLHHxkg0GGUsx3tCrmm06GJyM5KDl7fzXrzLf6iB82de5I/s320/Slide2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I looooved my Weekend News journal! It was so easy to look back and see/document growth in writing. My kids and parents also loved having all of the little snapshots of their entire year. I will most definitely be doing Weekend News again this coming year! It makes for the easiest Monday morning work EVER...and who doesn't need a little something easy on a Monday morning?!?!</div>
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*The only thing I did differently than what I posted is that I went ahead and copied, hole-punched, and put together all 36 weeks worth of sheets at the beginning of the year. I'm so glad I did that so I never had to go back and put them in....like that would have happened! Let's get real...those folders would have been a hot mess if I had just put them in the pockets! Ha!</div>
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<a href="http://whathappensinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2012/09/monday-freebie-weekend-news.html">Click here to see the post and grab your FREE weekend news cover and writing pages!</a></div>
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Happy Summer to you!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-66877588995407166562013-07-07T11:51:00.000-04:002013-07-07T11:59:48.659-04:00Sunday Randomness & some WINNERS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://fabulousinfirst.blogspot.com/2013/07/sunday-smorgasbord-june-7th.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuB4vBgCbx_6hZF9wIfXqtBnW9mvQy9pvNuMeeQzaCnRv88rVIh6_XtNZq6qVw0Tr7N4zRpG15w-5BXIuKi05Yd_txOst6O0yevNr_Go-JiybdRM2p32GTR_sZp6d0AqJTdzVZmWs847r/s200/c823e5c9-f7db-47fc-8555-123a065ce95b.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Michelle over at <a href="http://fabulousinfirst.blogspot.com/">Fabulous in First</a> is hosting another Sunday Smorgasbord linky...perfect for me today because I'm feeling all kinds of random!</div>
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First things first... I have some winners!</div>
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(Sorry it has taken me so long to post this...no good excuse...summer just "got in the way" ;))</div>
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c82cd82/" id="rc-c82cd82" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Congrats, girls! I'll be sending you an e-mail today so you can get your goodies!</div>
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We had a RIDICULOUS amount of rain last week. It rained every. single. day. It was crazy. I did some work and redecorating around the house and then busted out some school work! </div>
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I usually wait until closer to August but I have some fun projects that are calling my name. :) I made a new "class rules" poster. I always use the same 3 rules...but I just redesigned it. I like to keep the rule "list" short and sweet...and pretty much any behavior can relate back to these 3! I'm going to put it in some sort of pretty frame to hang but I haven't found the right one yet. If anyone wants this, feel free to grab it! Just click the image and download or pin it for later!</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77Q2lBcWktYkdqZkk/edit?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ODwkG15AOf_LMFXr610JwQTkInV7UxlhrofzfaBnbNguq6LT6Dmwp4Eu2XvZ0yAiFPRPnObP9fOrgOUIpG0jFwzVh_t2dlOTogd7-HONJ3UKmjGgbFpd_bSdVQz6mm0n1wMB9uMzY8Dg/s400/classrulesposter.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I also made a trip to Hobby Lobby when I went to Greensboro to spend time with my sweet neice. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6gAanZLscnsziCnw1c-A5RfTAVYc3VqX0PY_0TLv7RCk6_POL6e_5fw-CbsWxcX4J9T3idUfDlTu2MYgCgCVCSC849cjCoHlg0_fDTkL6POUcUUFU-DGMhPGIyLXMZvJsyEjMc7uRSn4/s1600/hadleighjune.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6gAanZLscnsziCnw1c-A5RfTAVYc3VqX0PY_0TLv7RCk6_POL6e_5fw-CbsWxcX4J9T3idUfDlTu2MYgCgCVCSC849cjCoHlg0_fDTkL6POUcUUFU-DGMhPGIyLXMZvJsyEjMc7uRSn4/s320/hadleighjune.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Love this little girl! Now, if we can just get our trip to Nashville planned to see our other precious niece and nephew...my summer will be *almost* complete!</div>
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We don't have one where I live...which may or may not be a good thing. I found so many things I HAD to have for my new little home office and my classroom.</div>
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The first thing I saw when I walked in was this sign! </div>
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I love it (and it immediately made me think of sweet Teri at <a href="http://acupcakefortheteacher.blogspot.com/"> A Cupcake for the Teacher</a>!) I really feel like you should have this in your house! ;)</div>
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I didn't get it, but oh so cute!</div>
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Here are some of the goodies I found for my office, mixed in with some TJ Maxx finds! I'm waiting on my dad to paint my desk, so for now...to the floor it goes!</div>
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Here is a peak at some of the fabric I got. I also found a good deal on some scraps from fabric.com that I'm waiting to receive! I got the awesome contact paper on amazon.com and I'm planning to do one of the little filing cabinet makeovers that I've seen on Pinterest with it!</div>
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And I loved this little sign so much that I got it for my house!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-L9QAoTXTrFE0BYAVAVSkLdDm5E3gZqHp8M5jWFp8MSa4vM1DZKFkW6JLuVLG-lN07syWHTaj4eE9hmu4J1-anKnoupjRvyk4grWKAeHjiMc93ULqLnELQPzA21fhSEvKN5C9tM4fxMn/s1600/IMG_1683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-L9QAoTXTrFE0BYAVAVSkLdDm5E3gZqHp8M5jWFp8MSa4vM1DZKFkW6JLuVLG-lN07syWHTaj4eE9hmu4J1-anKnoupjRvyk4grWKAeHjiMc93ULqLnELQPzA21fhSEvKN5C9tM4fxMn/s400/IMG_1683.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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My new Erin Condren planner arrived this week as well! I love seeing my new name on everything. Well, except my driver's license. I didn't realize they would make me take a new picture so I went to the DMV MINUS a shower and PLUS a rainstorm and let's just say the picture on it was as good as I thought it would be after the camera clicked...oy. It's a special kind of bad. And no, I will not post that. ;)</div>
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OK...enough randomness! I think this little boy is ready for some pool time with his mom!</div>
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Thanks to everyone who entered my little giveaway! </div>
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Happy Summer!</div>
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XO, Amy</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-37162137089228587702013-06-30T18:34:00.002-04:002013-06-30T18:49:53.605-04:00Last day for Amazon giveaway & a FREEBIE!<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't miss your chance to enter my bloglovin' giveaway! Two winners will win any 3 items of their choice from my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Dashboard">TPT store</a> and one winner will win a $10 gift certificate to Amazon! I just stocked up on printer ink from there today to get ready to start printing all of the fabulous things I'm finding on Pinterest and TPT for "back to school"! </div>
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Tomorrow is the last day to enter! The link to follow my blog on blog lovin' and facebook are on the right side of the screen. It only takes a second. :)<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c82cd82/" id="rc-c82cd82" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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I went on a cleaning spree today at my house so I think now it's time to settle down on the couch with the pooch and work on a few TPT things that I have in the works that I'm VERY excited about! Stay tuned!</div>
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I'm making a folder full of all of the things I can print ahead of time for the new school year (basically everything that doesn't have a list of student names). I ran across this desk fairy note. I am going to go ahead and print out a bunch and add GLITTER so that I don't have to do it throughout the year. <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Desk-Fairy-Notes-393942">Here is a link to grab it if you like it</a>! (glitter not included ;))</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Desk-Fairy-Notes-393942"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtjXRNelC8FKnAclcHUpbvihqHYKbg3EFDbko5pdA6omZACtJxBeXAGO2QPG98e2o9erGIZBlQPAZjY4JSJ3GRzKbB_UDfqAQo1UCpPOGIxntQVXHgg3FvLxQXIKMuUVBS8Q5R2ImBQo/s400/deskfairy.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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After I have my post gum-graft appointment tomorrow morning (ick!) I am headed to visit my sweet niece tomorrow and do some shopping at Hobby Lobby with her. We don't have one where I live...isn't that the saddest thing you ever heard?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUVZJ_qbaAxS8zuqhZ4LlvKA86XcrKR4xC-UxKVeF-3XR8VmJ0IhlF_fJeMHWjCqqJor2Ww1n1ahzulTO-sUeaDC7JrXYkaN-aiAxaZG1L32NGxlR64bTK1gEoL6KwwiS54_7Lpxsr5g/s960/hadleigh5months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUVZJ_qbaAxS8zuqhZ4LlvKA86XcrKR4xC-UxKVeF-3XR8VmJ0IhlF_fJeMHWjCqqJor2Ww1n1ahzulTO-sUeaDC7JrXYkaN-aiAxaZG1L32NGxlR64bTK1gEoL6KwwiS54_7Lpxsr5g/s320/hadleigh5months.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I CAN'T WAIT to love on this little cutie pie!</div>
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HAPPY SUMMER to you!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-60305848836059891172013-06-28T08:19:00.001-04:002013-07-19T23:21:04.355-04:00FREEBIE Friday :)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDuzWkp-rCI79ZccPNcGKHqmwNgfIEbjnbL3dbjBxEjSTpNTqqTQCc-Q2rBKKdehyphenhyphenjUnFTZ6IdGFusG6nSLy8TGFetBDZVrEzWYmiV5PZ5q8sH11z9l0d4yOydV2yWyn5_vaWlPrzS7Q/s960/mysterysignpreview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDuzWkp-rCI79ZccPNcGKHqmwNgfIEbjnbL3dbjBxEjSTpNTqqTQCc-Q2rBKKdehyphenhyphenjUnFTZ6IdGFusG6nSLy8TGFetBDZVrEzWYmiV5PZ5q8sH11z9l0d4yOydV2yWyn5_vaWlPrzS7Q/s400/mysterysignpreview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I linked up with What the Teacher Wants last year for a behavior management linky party and ever since, this little picture has been pretty popular on Pinterest! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYOvaMiUxXDEQKfjc52oqdfsCdjEDUNCaDFQWuZANzaObARz_WHORPBw4avazDHELpLGhwCrE-0ReIVkXLEdSYOQGA1NFOBOiykMfJ9jbd77ov2y-uRnsHMpU5mLiOQU6SlXjj-5oR7Y/s640/uglymysterywalkerpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYOvaMiUxXDEQKfjc52oqdfsCdjEDUNCaDFQWuZANzaObARz_WHORPBw4avazDHELpLGhwCrE-0ReIVkXLEdSYOQGA1NFOBOiykMfJ9jbd77ov2y-uRnsHMpU5mLiOQU6SlXjj-5oR7Y/s320/uglymysterywalkerpic.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I wish it wasn't such an awful picture! Ha! It was before my Canon came into my life. ;) </div>
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Anyways, this is a super simple concept that you can use in your classroom daily to encourage good hallway behavior.</div>
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Just pick a name (cards, chips, popsicle sticks...anything works) before you leave the classroom and look at it, but don't tell who it is. The idea is that you will watch this person very carefully the whole way to your destination and back. If they do an excellent job in the hall...they get a "ticket" or small prize.</div>
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(I also encourage them to line up quickly and quietly without throwing elbows and the other strange things they do to be "first" by saying I will only pick a mystery walker if they are lined up and ready by the time I get to the door!)</div>
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FYI: The colored chips in this picture are from Staples (in the teacher section) and I use these tickets from Creative Teaching Press for my behavior management system in my classroom so it's very easy to give a ticket to my Mystery Walker. </div>
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My students collect these tickets for monthly raffles for fun coupons and prizes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LhNV0CxYGzg2w4tbX2zbgb2u2PYnwgYffuW7cWXtui2f4sayRmCR8m_ncwn_yY5dp4dSwtX0jvca7HCtG4kifguBbGR6VCdqD_AUOSZDbQ3UJZk9pehwHE8Mfsor5fmBRzk6oxWHc0c/s250/tickets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LhNV0CxYGzg2w4tbX2zbgb2u2PYnwgYffuW7cWXtui2f4sayRmCR8m_ncwn_yY5dp4dSwtX0jvca7HCtG4kifguBbGR6VCdqD_AUOSZDbQ3UJZk9pehwHE8Mfsor5fmBRzk6oxWHc0c/s200/tickets.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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About halfway through the year last year, I also started picking a "secret student" on occasion...especially when we started doing more independent work. Same concept...just pick a student and tell them that you will be watching them do whatever activity you are working on. After that activity, if they did what they were supposed to do...ticket!</div>
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I've had people ask me...and no, I do not call the "mystery person" out if they did not earn the ticket! I just act extremely sad and say something like "Oh well...maybe my mystery walker will earn their ticket next time when they remember to keep their hands to themselves in the hall..." </div>
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(in my best teacher voice, of course)</div>
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Since these little ideas worked so well for me last year, I revamped my signs for my classroom and you can give them a try, too! Click the picture to download the mystery walker sign FREE on TPT.</div>
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(and click the link below the picture for the secret student sign)</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mystery-Walker-Chevron-Sign-746685"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAoh-9BLS9a0R9pq_xPSciHpa7cLKZR3mC6hyphenhyphenzE03aaYDJGIPjmMCaGUes0uXyokO48vtgdfcZE5T5RxM24Esp21h0yniKVF8tUVYDmnJAslDHXk397VDb9Z0sYYOYmS_tXPoz3EW4ZYs/s400/mysterysignpreview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Secret-Student-Chevron-Sign-746701">Secret Student Sign</a></div>
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Happy Friday!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-58090559315245447432013-06-27T13:22:00.002-04:002013-06-30T23:25:44.877-04:00Amazon GIVEAWAY & Binder FREEBIES Updated for 2013-2014!<div style="text-align: center;">
So my HUSBAND (still getting used to saying that and LOVIN' it!) came home from Lowe's yesterday with a plastic pool for this little beach bum (and maybe me). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJKJMuGFySVNrnutyx2n2JRvqkAoeR96KWUUNdVrwRwbn_goRxhMPAzFjeY-8geMXrRzj7c23d0ETuBjwQr_QY6QR8UL0n76Mz9go-8pbhQvEotC_cDUS6wMnW8g2HYkM8ztx1nHDVCg/s1280/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJKJMuGFySVNrnutyx2n2JRvqkAoeR96KWUUNdVrwRwbn_goRxhMPAzFjeY-8geMXrRzj7c23d0ETuBjwQr_QY6QR8UL0n76Mz9go-8pbhQvEotC_cDUS6wMnW8g2HYkM8ztx1nHDVCg/s320/0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ridiculous. </div>
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I have a funny feeling we are going to be the talk of the neighborhood soon. I could totally see all 3 of us ending up in that thing one hot afternoon in the near future. HA! </div>
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Pictures to come...maybe. ;)</div>
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It is a nasty, cloudy morning...so instead of splashing in the pool, I am catching up on laundry and clicking around on my laptop.</div>
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I updated my "binder covers for everything" for the 2013-2014 school year. I've had a lot of people asking when these would be ready so I put them on top of my list! Mine are printing now. :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bright-Colorful-Binder-Covers-for-EVERYTHING-313221"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rEHEQ_ApfOWnPW6hC75hkxwy2Op4s2K_CE51cMg_zET4H67eywHvkkHOaFCYQcM4x-lBvaW7qP_VcZ5PD32KfYOXCJL6-PISe9gfQHSrP-MPLIgSs845r8jLIAOzAw2OVtHBSjeuQRk/s400/bindercoverpreview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bright-Colorful-Binder-Covers-for-EVERYTHING-313221">Go get 'em</a> so you can feel organized...even if you're not. It's June...you shouldn't be organized yet!</div>
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They are FREE and I'm more than happy to change 'em up a bit if you need something different. These are just the ones I needed last year and decided to share...had no idea so many people would be interested in using them. Just get in touch!</div>
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PS - Don't forget to...</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigDPYMjZ0bakrPzEZuB2u2lKeiMxNwu9HThl6VccPXSoWow1smNbaz-J6w2V_3SUbPq3Po_Qs9wQlaZc30dz1hbTkfWtBRZolB6OYjI6pVXjyWUUi7KCl1_D6LWpGce4S1lrfi6fk6td9e/s1600/2.2.png" /></div>
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Google Reader is going bye-bye on Monday. Keep up with this little blog and all your favorites on bloglovin'! I must admit...I pretended like this wasn't happening for as long as I could because I just didn't want to deal with it...but it was actually super easy and I (gasp) like bloglovin' better than google reader!</div>
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Just go to <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/">www.bloglovin.com</a> and make an account (easy) and make sure you "import all your favorite blogs from google reader" so you don't miss out on anything!</div>
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Click here to follow my blog on bloglovin' if you're not already a follower.</div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/4062040" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow What Happens in First Grade on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" height="57" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=4062040" width="178" /></a></div>
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You're done!<br />
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Also...as a "thank you" for taking the time to make the switch...a lot of bloggers are doing some awesome giveaways for their "new" bloglovin' followers!<br />
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Enter below. THREE winners will be selected to choose any THREE items from my TPT store and one lucky winner will win a $10 gift card to AMAZON.COM!<br />
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You can get a couple extra entries if you like my brand new facebook page as well...figured I might as well do it all at once! ;)<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c82cd82/" id="rc-c82cd82" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Now go check out all of these other fabulous bloggers who are having bloglovin giveaways! You're bound to win something cool! ;)<br />
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-35741038147251944892013-06-25T15:16:00.003-04:002013-06-25T16:40:28.046-04:00Mrs. JOHNSTON is back!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4062040/?claim=6v899uptbck">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></div>
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Hi friends! I am so very sorry for my extremely long absence from this little blog. I do have a few VERY good reasons...but I've missed you! Before I get to WHY I've been gone for so long...I must say, this whole Google Reader disappearing and switching to Blog Lovin' thing is stressing me out...mostly because I don't understand it <u>at all.</u> Apparently, I have to "claim" my blog on Blog Lovin' so I am pasting some html code in this post to attempt to do that. If something looks strange...let me know. :) </div>
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I'll be back soon with a prettier link to follow me on there once I figure it out. Until then...click on the ugly blue link at the top. ;)<br />
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Anyone else had any luck figuring this whole switch out? Help! </div>
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Soooo...the BEST reason I've been MIA?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlF1hIzQ3yAhCwYTbOS_t3AU8ZT44W-eH-cpOKnvXsYn24IhUQ7JvCj39_UXmYG711ZQ3vbv7-xCaXrFaLRw9j_f9Rad3niepdZQVlPm9lUo0cjQr2KbOeyEf4UUjDodk5NULb09trmGA/s1600/weddingcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlF1hIzQ3yAhCwYTbOS_t3AU8ZT44W-eH-cpOKnvXsYn24IhUQ7JvCj39_UXmYG711ZQ3vbv7-xCaXrFaLRw9j_f9Rad3niepdZQVlPm9lUo0cjQr2KbOeyEf4UUjDodk5NULb09trmGA/s320/weddingcollage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I got married!</div>
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I am officially Mrs. Johnston, now. Yay!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivMvASfJlzAv6g5mOa4V8jOapBVeywnYfMTtVRdoEqt0fgEH7VKvg8B3cqtVjsNDOOrz6AM6d4qCcHe5UbS9dU2pNYIErw_i1JfZmzdLRJDkdD_lKDtTxTyzJkvy_yjn1OrjnjXQHWSYC_/s1600/IMAG0670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivMvASfJlzAv6g5mOa4V8jOapBVeywnYfMTtVRdoEqt0fgEH7VKvg8B3cqtVjsNDOOrz6AM6d4qCcHe5UbS9dU2pNYIErw_i1JfZmzdLRJDkdD_lKDtTxTyzJkvy_yjn1OrjnjXQHWSYC_/s320/IMAG0670.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sign my sweeties (and my awesome substitute) had waiting on me when I returned! Total sweetness!</td></tr>
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We got married in the outer banks so we were able to enjoy an early beach vacation, and since we returned...I finished the school year, had two "receptions" back home, gotten started on some summer projects around the house, and most recently...had a little oral surgery (ick!).</div>
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So, while I'm laid up on the couch with Pinterest, my pain meds, and my favorite little cuddle buddy... I wanted to catch up on a few things and share some pictures! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My view for the next few days.</td></tr>
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I am fairly certain that you don't want to see pictures of my gum graft surgery (I won't even look in the mirror!) so how about some more wedding pics, instead? ;)</div>
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Since I've been on the couch for the past 2 days...I've been pinning away! It's still June and I'm already gearing up for a mini classroom makeover and some exciting new ideas for the coming year! </div>
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Nerd alert! hehe</div>
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Here is one of my favorite ideas so far...click on the picture to be taken to the original source! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mrsguntoriusclass.blogspot.jp/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img class="pinImage" src="http://media-cache-ak2.pinimg.com/736x/0b/9b/bd/0b9bbdd21db7aedd35e02c2bc247e4f9.jpg" style="height: 320px; margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px; width: 287px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't wait to get to Hobby Lobby and find some cool fabric for this little project!<br />
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Here are some of my latest school finds at TJ Maxx (love those red sale stickers!)</div>
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Time for another nap...or another pain pill...or perhaps both!<br />
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It feels good to be back! XOXO</div>
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<br />Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-8177193126219906732013-04-29T18:14:00.004-04:002013-04-29T18:14:51.662-04:00Photo Dump and INSTAGRAM PARTY!<div style="text-align: center;">
I've missed you! I am in way over my head with wedding planning, long-ish term sub plans for wedding, pre-wedding celebrations, PALS testing, report cards, and oh yea...TEACHING every day! :) Ahh!</div>
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I couldn't miss out on a chance to link up to the instagram Party, though! What a fabulous idea. I loooove instagram and have managed to find some of you, but this will be an awesome way to find new blogs AND to get my blog fix when I don't have time to sit at the computer and surf. I'm happy to announce that "What Happens in First Grade" now has an instagram account. Unfortunately, it will probably only have pictures of Sawyer until I can get to school in the morning and snap something else! ;) Sorry...it's brand new!</div>
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Click below to link up!</div>
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<a href="http://whattheteacherwants.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB4BBM19KE10tk8e3cyy36OOmKejIYKmxvlev-l8BLZMFGT65bXX1EjzLjYan8L2YmU6i_KWxs-iPFY4xnhi6EhuSC9wa6mEV1SyYra0k4igVaZ-ka3JoqOQUzW1HEXAUYGRdAUb95SCn/s400/instagram.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://instagram.com/whathappensinfirstgrade">Follow me on instagram @ whathappensinfirstgrade</a>! I want to follow you, too!</div>
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We have indeed been busy, busy, busy in first grade despite my blogging absence. Here is a quick "photo dump" of what we've been up to! I promise I'll be back soon....even sooner if anyone wants to write a week's worth of sub plans for me. Any takers? ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4SQYfCasofzEMExiDe2t6IP22szjWHcBS0DWPhvsA9BqPxfz643Iyoz9CpALPY-XUu3FGd2iIYsCXoDF7Jcl7mrjzztcY3Gc5eC6h-H7eMt0wLiZs360KnpfWf-m8N3OhPx1z6fQdfWo/s1600/factfamilies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4SQYfCasofzEMExiDe2t6IP22szjWHcBS0DWPhvsA9BqPxfz643Iyoz9CpALPY-XUu3FGd2iIYsCXoDF7Jcl7mrjzztcY3Gc5eC6h-H7eMt0wLiZs360KnpfWf-m8N3OhPx1z6fQdfWo/s400/factfamilies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Fact Family Review</div>
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Some of our favorites:</div>
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-Number Sentence Sliders (super easy to make with sentence strips - cover one of the numbers OR the +/- sign and your partner has to guess what is hidden!</div>
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- "Visual Math" Number Sentence Shakers</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jv4LjvQkHvFWruDLrhrAaZoHHbxDIm_Y3y9rKSmAY-k9RKzFSRY-bcdEwI74XEgh9Qfjtub8NAgmHfUKG5ToKpQAStll4csc2fmScXF4mLpjA7qagJ6aQBy8r6m70wUWyJXuPPbtaWqZ/s1600/oo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jv4LjvQkHvFWruDLrhrAaZoHHbxDIm_Y3y9rKSmAY-k9RKzFSRY-bcdEwI74XEgh9Qfjtub8NAgmHfUKG5ToKpQAStll4csc2fmScXF4mLpjA7qagJ6aQBy8r6m70wUWyJXuPPbtaWqZ/s640/oo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Phonics Work with the Sounds of "oo" </div>
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Fruit Loops and Sunglasses make everything more fun!</div>
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Money Practice Games</div>
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-Most are from from the fabulous <a href="http://thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com/">Cara Carroll at The First Grade Parade</a>.</div>
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-We also had an awesome time with my little <a href="http://www.whathappensinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/2013/04/money-bugs.html">"Money Bugs" count the room activity.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQN52Nd-JwQuaX36EJp5yaZwLrbVMzd_8PCjyeZIAZw4jnjfbtLBNMjqCN6uVHg7a2r_W18Gn97v3cVOqgumNoBa6zEExvOg1dg4VI9VzOE-CDfelut31nYadbu4S5MP0p6catLKxlNqz/s1600/moneybugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQN52Nd-JwQuaX36EJp5yaZwLrbVMzd_8PCjyeZIAZw4jnjfbtLBNMjqCN6uVHg7a2r_W18Gn97v3cVOqgumNoBa6zEExvOg1dg4VI9VzOE-CDfelut31nYadbu4S5MP0p6catLKxlNqz/s640/moneybugs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-d_DMhdJFpZGaEybuGq8XKma6EpZbSBdHiFt_eKjsYGxG4Wb4B9U_AguZZyepa_54zSL-c8BgIQFbUJo1pJXPOU3QUYp-LJFugFSgSg4K8dzpL3ZCN70wLUX2PdqSnRZILKXXfb3hqmgP/s1600/sidewalksort.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-d_DMhdJFpZGaEybuGq8XKma6EpZbSBdHiFt_eKjsYGxG4Wb4B9U_AguZZyepa_54zSL-c8BgIQFbUJo1pJXPOU3QUYp-LJFugFSgSg4K8dzpL3ZCN70wLUX2PdqSnRZILKXXfb3hqmgP/s640/sidewalksort.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Taking advantage of the pretty weather to do a little short i/long i partner writing sort with sidewalk chalk</div>
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PS - The UPS man just made my day with these precious little koozies for the wedding...</div>
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I'm ready to say I do!</div>
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Happy teaching to you...and see ya on instagram! ;)</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-59011555057240658472013-04-14T17:39:00.000-04:002013-04-14T17:39:22.901-04:00Money Bugs!<div style="text-align: center;">
Is anyone else working on counting coins this week?? I just finished making a few activities that I can't wait to use with my kiddos. My laminator is warming up as I type this!</div>
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My kids LOVE "read around the room" activities this year so I made a "count around the room" money game called "Money Bugs." Get it? Like money bags? </div>
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Get it? Get it?</div>
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I thought I was really clever but Andy just gave me a strange look when I told him. Sigh.</div>
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If you are interested, <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Money-Bugs-Counting-Dimes-Nickels-and-Pennies">check it out at my TPT store</a>. It includes dimes, nickels, and pennies but NOT quarters. Just FYI! :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Money-Bugs-Counting-Dimes-Nickels-and-Pennies"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRf99bRDN_PTl93uMLVIFQcLRLwijRCAT147KCaTCIdEjY0yLOj9tfdntpm3z990tweRiKl9yILSypJJM8PMg9FvPixt0BbsNQgncPKQ4UDQ8UYCyuGgbkQxaMICVWZL1T_d-iVx1_bmpe/s640/moneybugsdisplay.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We have been enjoying an absolutely perfect Sunday. I've been busy, busy, busy on plans after a long walk with the pooch and a grocery store run. Andy is busy studying for a BIG paramedic test for work tomorrow. </div>
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lazy.</div>
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Today, I am thankful for the electrical outlet on my screened-in deck because it doesn't make me feel so bad to spend the entire day on school work when I can enjoy the fabulous weather and a cool breeze! </div>
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I am also thankful that yummy fruit is starting to be in season. I can hardly stand to buy it in the winter when it doesn't even taste like real fruit!</div>
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Oh yea...and riesling. I'm thankful for that too. ;)</div>
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I am also thankful that you decided to stop by my blog today so I have a FREEBIE for you. This is basically the game of "WAR" with coins. I just don't like calling it war...don't ask me why, I just don't...so I call it "top-it." </div>
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Students will pair up and take turns turning over the top card on their stack. The person with the highest amount gets to keep both cards...you know the drill.</div>
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This is <strike>war</strike> top-it of the coin variety and it's yours if you would like it!</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Coin-Top-It">Click Here to Download from TPT</a></div>
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This also includes mostly dimes, nickels, and pennies. The last page does include some quarters in isolation that you can leave in or take out but it does not include a lot of practice with counting quarters. </div>
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So if your kids are smartie-pants and already know how to count quarters with dimes, nickels, and pennies...SORRY! hehe. We're not quite there...yet...</div>
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but...practice makes progress!</div>
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Happy Monday and Happy Teaching to You!</div>
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XO</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-73185878156183058952013-04-07T19:22:00.000-04:002013-04-07T19:22:33.653-04:00What's the BIG idea??<div style="text-align: center;">
Spring Break has officially come to an end and I am SAD about that but going back means I'm getting closer and closer to May when I get to marry this handsome guy! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicyeXUPi0IzNO04p9-D_kOLJT5pig8JT606fxllhQDHo8a00U8YUa1AaQLz5PwiOnrGEBM0hxIERDQlvi0qqFg9LW_yItpdVnbMMmNunAWbp3CmCxLcqzhCsv4c6dggm5xk918y-XwmQ/s1600/IMG_0627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicyeXUPi0IzNO04p9-D_kOLJT5pig8JT606fxllhQDHo8a00U8YUa1AaQLz5PwiOnrGEBM0hxIERDQlvi0qqFg9LW_yItpdVnbMMmNunAWbp3CmCxLcqzhCsv4c6dggm5xk918y-XwmQ/s320/IMG_0627.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Then, of course, glorious summer days ahead! I think I can do it!</div>
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Spring Break was productive, but not busy. I had plenty of days to sleep in and work on some wedding projects at home. It FINALLY warmed up yesterday and spring decided to make an appearance in my little corner of Virginia so I spent the day getting a little (too much) sun and reading a book. It was a REAL, grown-up book. I don't read those much from September-June! I read "Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn. WOW. I highly recommend. I finished it in two days...couldn't put it down. It's definitely not a "feel good" story...pretty disturbing actually, but quite good!</div>
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=maPgVDh_opviEM&tbnid=6VORGmBrwEjZaM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cleveland.com%2Farts%2Findex.ssf%2F2012%2F06%2Fgone_girl_this_smart_hip_whodu.html&ei=8fphUf_OAsaC2wWd6oHQBw&bvm=bv.44770516,d.b2I&psig=AFQjCNENtgOS_YGswunZdsqwvm1887p1Hw&ust=1365462124967983" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="320" id="irc_mi" src="http://media.cleveland.com/ent_impact_arts/photo/11162684-large.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="212" /></a></div>
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I also had a chance to FINALLY finish up a new unit I've been working on for quite some time. I had a really hard time in the past teaching main idea to my first graders as a reading strategy. I feel like I've finally come up with some ideas to help them grasp the concept. This year was the first year I felt truly successful with it, so I decided it was time to share! This is also the first year that I feel like I've truly used the concepts of main idea and details to help my students as writers. I am shocked at how it helped many of even my reluctant writers feel confident writing a short paragraph with multiple sentences on the same topic....YES!</div>
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I also noticed that as I shopped on TPT, there were a lot of resources out there for upper elementary grades...but not so much for primary. So if this is something that you are working on this spring with your little ones...I hope you can use it! </div>
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It is on sale this week for $4!</div>
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There is a lengthy preview available on TPT so you can see exactly what you are getting. Just click the picture below to check it out. :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whats-the-BIG-Idea-A-Main-Idea-Reading-Writing-Mega-Pack"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hPzTSb6wQ9zeh2tLw5cwKxsygdSXgMDLxPJszl4aCYsTJg74HNtJabt9ClMjzrHx3ag71INvCs77IQOdw3Ed3mfOOY4qRRzM5BUKrI5rs8MnbWZ5RfeFqbDt6e9q05kyTHJXqB3CxEc/s640/mainideadisplay.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'd also love to give away a copy to the first 3 friends to leave me a comment. On your mark, get set...go!</div>
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For now...I'm off to watch the Country Music Awards and gear up for my kiddos tomorrow! </div>
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Happy Monday and as always...Happy Teaching to you!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-2875297225388684022013-04-01T23:06:00.003-04:002013-04-02T08:35:33.073-04:00My clock is broken.<div style="text-align: center;">
Seriously, it must be broken. I woke up early, poured some coffee in my Bon Jovi mug (Yes...I have one of those. Don't you judge me.) and watched part of the Today Show. Then, I went to get my oil changed (wow. WAY past due.), went by my parents' house, ran to Target, and I swear the next time I looked at the clock it was 6 pm. </div>
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Why do spring break days go by so darn fast??</div>
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I'm going to blame it on Target. </div>
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Going to Target on a weekday is a little slice of heaven...and it's possible I may have indulged for a little too long.</div>
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On that note, here is an ode to Target via Pinterest. These make me laugh.</div>
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I haven't posted a lot lately because my student teacher took over full time teaching the two weeks before break and her time with us has been FLYING by. Is it seriously April?<br />
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I have been a labeling/filing/paperwork doing/grade entering/long-term planning FOOL while she's been teaching. </div>
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I did want to drop in tonight and say a belated "HAPPY EASTER"...and of course...drop off a quick freebie!</div>
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This is such a simple math activity, but one of my (and my kids') absolute favorites. They have no clue how much they are learning by doing these 100's Chart Puzzles. ;) <br />
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They just think it's fun!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHdyAQz3sHjRjtBWj-2Xsjn7CR6z4btoi_SjGKQAteccrYX8UkZoYsDYPKW57ho28BJ67P9lKDZcrSxKjEbCQ9T3aouppNLbS3hGBLxpRLPeBKlQ_5ggYo87VXcpoXzZlsnxD39oK9d7K/s1600/IMAG0536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHdyAQz3sHjRjtBWj-2Xsjn7CR6z4btoi_SjGKQAteccrYX8UkZoYsDYPKW57ho28BJ67P9lKDZcrSxKjEbCQ9T3aouppNLbS3hGBLxpRLPeBKlQ_5ggYo87VXcpoXzZlsnxD39oK9d7K/s400/IMAG0536.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I made new ones this year because my originals were showing their age. I leave these in my regular math tub rotation and keep some handy for early finishers because they learn so much by working them and noticing all of the patterns. They will get REALLY quick at doing these eventually...but the first few times they are totally bewildered with all of the pieces and feel pretty awesome when they get it all put together!</div>
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Basically...I just printed <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77Vm0wWGVWU2pxQlU/edit?usp=sharing">this little 100's chart</a> on lots of different colors of paper and laminated them. (My Scotch laminator at home has a lot thicker plastic than the one at school, so I used that to keep the pieces a little sturdier.)</div>
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Then, just cut each 100's chart into crazy, zig-zag pieces and stick them in a bag. </div>
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Voila! Puzzles!<br />
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Click on the picture below to get your free copy!<br />
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(By the way - it is supposed to be off-center. I wanted the pieces to be more square instead of rectangular so I squished it to one side.)<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77Vm0wWGVWU2pxQlU/edit?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTW9bUWi8m6dBVljFAn31e-H4hRBmnZ-BN_BLMwh5EPIRRf3pDe94nNbz1fDg3Ck6WmCYaXLFnlQfCSPU2b3p638pHGVbzMZC4i_2F-TbbMTfuUv4GPg6xupX4tKWNFRDOTePK-m6uujOX/s400/IMAG0535.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Also...here's another fun 100's chart just in case you need one! Feel free to grab it.</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4YiY6SAt_77amstU0o3VGlqN2c/edit?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirMPacpjOzm3QNhhMhM8NdeCPT4XZboNt9vR614YKJVPXLP0hlBh_WZJu_HK-owlB3cCLf5qj9fVB90gKU6B_Y7D7DAU6jnvjdE_l-4P-2tgbuic9ygrbJ-Mgf2jWaCWkmwLmEHbUrryDE/s400/100schart.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I'll be back soon with a brand new packet full of Reading and Writing Ideas to study Main Idea! Check back to WIN it. </div>
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Happy Spring Break and Happy Teaching to you!</div>
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<br />Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-14224107978570031512013-03-15T12:07:00.002-04:002013-04-03T08:58:13.943-04:00Friday Phonics Freebie<div style="text-align: center;">
Is anyone else doing R-Controlled vowels anytime soon?? </div>
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These sounds are giving my little ones a fit so we are going to go slow and concentrate on ar/or first. Then we will work on all of the sounds that say ERRRR (ir/ur/er) before we mix them all up.</div>
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<a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/R-Controlled-Vowel-Poster-Set">I found these ADORABLE posters (for free!) by Lory at Fun For First.</a></div>
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Go get 'em!</div>
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I was having a hard time finding any activities with isolated sounds...so I HOPE someone can use this freebie that I made this morning. I plan on copying enough of the blank pages to let them do 4-5 words and illustrate them.</div>
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Oh...remember how I said my kiddos were having a TOUGH time with one more/one less and ten more/ten less in math?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhOkEiWpxfIo42979zHBcjr9BnToZNz0P_AB92TX_v_NHqpo2RUTql2ca7v_c6XjDF08XeEepKsOgSiKNJtrriCL8aMWVh8C8tOsuz9yCpDDPFQKxeeK9HS6qGnp9gUiYsRxl9MXLQ4bD/s1600/IMG_0911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDhOkEiWpxfIo42979zHBcjr9BnToZNz0P_AB92TX_v_NHqpo2RUTql2ca7v_c6XjDF08XeEepKsOgSiKNJtrriCL8aMWVh8C8tOsuz9yCpDDPFQKxeeK9HS6qGnp9gUiYsRxl9MXLQ4bD/s400/IMG_0911.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ta-da!</div>
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Pretzels and M&M's did the trick. They did MUCH better today. Now they are saying that the tens is the "pretzel number" number and the ones are the "M&M numbers" and remembering which number to change when adding/subtracting ONE or TEN.</div>
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Yes! Lightbulbs going off! I love this time of year in first grade!</div>
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Now if only the weather would cooperate so I can wear flip flops...</div>
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Happy Friday!</div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02500698941312457589noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-753550162627272364.post-77611534526346544102013-03-14T20:57:00.004-04:002013-03-14T20:57:44.466-04:00Catching Up!<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, hello! It's been a while! </div>
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My blog was having major technical difficulties for a little while and apparently...planning a wedding and teaching first grade is <strike>a full time job</strike>...TWO full time jobs...so, this girl has been a bit busy. <br />
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But, in extremely important news...my gals are going to be STUNNING, aren't they?</div>
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I'm so excited.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqgxn9qHhisQxOVOUaLSHs2psp9iJRioAG-GVKu58yh3668FZB5aBDI8tFWEQphgYjZEDfl7Aowxm8eHsgi5Gs6O0PYHoXvKL3c2OgnDvBS1LzVxNIqZ9IFPmvjo7qFoHZNsIsNUGCwGY/s1600/CoralWedding2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqgxn9qHhisQxOVOUaLSHs2psp9iJRioAG-GVKu58yh3668FZB5aBDI8tFWEQphgYjZEDfl7Aowxm8eHsgi5Gs6O0PYHoXvKL3c2OgnDvBS1LzVxNIqZ9IFPmvjo7qFoHZNsIsNUGCwGY/s400/CoralWedding2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My house is currently a disaster but my bridesmaids have dresses... and report cards are finished. Sawyer doesn't mind the house being a wreck, and I have a good excuse. It's called...</div>
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I had to work on a SATURDAY. </div>
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Yep, it's true. I wouldn't kid about such a thing. Working on a Saturday is not a joking matter. </div>
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I know you don't believe me, but it's true. Our snow days caused us to have staff development day last Saturday. I had to present, so I was nervous and for some reason I kept thinking about the hilarious Kristin, aka the <a href="http://www.ateenytinyteacher.com/">Teeny Tiny Teacher</a>, talking about <a href="http://www.ateenytinyteacher.com/2012/07/i-dont-use-clip-chart-please-dont-throw.html">people throwing rotten tomatoes</a>. </div>
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(She cracks me up. If you haven't checked out her blog...you must. I especially love her Tuesday recaps of the Bachelor. She makes me laugh out loud. A lot.)</div>
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Anyways...luckily, no one had any rotten tomatoes to throw so I'll take that as a success....especially for a Saturday. </div>
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I actually presented about all of the fabulous resources in blogland and on TPT, Pinterest, etc. So, basically, I've been too busy talking about blogging to actually blog.</div>
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Sigh.</div>
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Things have not slowed down in Room 106, though! My student teacher has been gradually taking over more subjects and it's been eye opening to sit and watch from a different perspective. It's crazy how many more little conversations I hear and things I notice when I'm not the one in charge of instruction. I'm learning things about myself and the way I teach. <br />
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Today, I heard one little guy say "I got the most sleep I've gotten in ages last night!"<br />
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He's like a 70 year old trapped in a 7 year old's body. Cuteness.</div>
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I try to get things done that I never have time to do while she's teaching, but I have a hard time concentrating because I'm always turned around watching my kiddos and giving them "looks" when they are not acting right. I can't help it.</div>
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I did go on a "labeling" spree, though. Labeling things is therapeutic for me. I use these cards from Creative Teaching Press to label EVERYTHING in my room. Everything. It's concerning, really.</div>
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<img alt="Click here to view larger image" border="0" height="320" id="ProductPic3078" name="ProductPic3078" src="http://www.creativeteaching.com/images/Product/medium/3870.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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I just noticed that they are out of stock until April 6th. I will personally apologize for that. If anyone needs some, I have approximately 700 packs hoarded in my classroom. ;)</div>
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We have been working on place value and numbers to 100 in math. It's one of my FAVORITE things to teach. Love it. I have oodles of resources for place value that I've collected over time...but most of my games are from <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Place-Value-Packet-of-Fun">Cara Carroll's Place Value Packet of Fun</a>! Awesome resource!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-R-5Tub2fNvnC7uxi5nk1UUQEhNtaQ5PEc1qapuVEh9msTHBLwvcgP-RqoXoP9Wb65UC8w_YtGCYX9rftFBvxl-I6AaE7q0rmTFeo2ekPSkSnVWdWXw6SJVpt9GJuBREEuZVa3A-wI0j/s1600/IMAG0508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-R-5Tub2fNvnC7uxi5nk1UUQEhNtaQ5PEc1qapuVEh9msTHBLwvcgP-RqoXoP9Wb65UC8w_YtGCYX9rftFBvxl-I6AaE7q0rmTFeo2ekPSkSnVWdWXw6SJVpt9GJuBREEuZVa3A-wI0j/s400/IMAG0508.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Race to 100 - We will continue to play this all year! It's tough to learn to trade but when they finally get it, angels sing...or something like that.</div>
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Cover Up</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3pd5we1dSRf-OkfKpL1i_iQS-bNmjGO5_8D1rB-yw0PKXwgNc4XVllDoSmUBmiC4B7KMOp87KHN2TjUNsg4qlMZKrCCEuVhZUQ9bLMDydUtF9pm8IBaxlsvj_hF-yHfvbZmVMo7_Fw3I/s1600/IMAG0513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3pd5we1dSRf-OkfKpL1i_iQS-bNmjGO5_8D1rB-yw0PKXwgNc4XVllDoSmUBmiC4B7KMOp87KHN2TjUNsg4qlMZKrCCEuVhZUQ9bLMDydUtF9pm8IBaxlsvj_hF-yHfvbZmVMo7_Fw3I/s400/IMAG0513.jpg" width="325" /></a></div>
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"Make the Most" </div>
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Super simple game played with numbers 1-9 of a deck of cards and unifix cubes to keep score. Each student takes turns picking a card and deciding whether to put it in the "tens" or "ones" space. It didn't take long for them to realize that if they got a high number they should put it in the tens place to make the biggest number! Fun to watch the light bulbs go off!</div>
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Here are some fun websites to check out as well...<br />
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<a href="http://www.factmonster.com/math/knowledgebox/player.html?movie=sfw44801">Big Count Bayou - Love this bear's southern drawl</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.oswego.org/ocsd-web/games/DogBone/gamebone.html">Dogbone 100 - Addictive!</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.primarygames.co.uk/pg2/splat/splatsq100.html">Interactive 100 Grid - So many possibilities</a></div>
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We worked on 1 more, 1 less, 10 more, and 10 less today. Some of them got it right away...some of them looked at me like I was crrraaazzyy. <br />
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So, while I was at CVS today using a coupon for some anti-aging eye cream, <br />
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(ever since this last birthday, I've been a little nervous about this whole "getting old" thing)<br />
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I had an idea! Tomorrow, we shall EAT our place value and I am quite sure that will do the trick. I got some pretzel sticks for tens (rods) and some M&Ms for ones (cubes)...because let's be honest...math is always better when you can snack!<br />
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We also studied the sun, earth, and moon last week. I am a firm believer that sometimes the simplest of projects turn out to be the best! We had some extra time on Friday, so I set out my basket of "space" books and piled scrap paper on the table and let them go to town making their own picture of what they had learned about outer space. It led to a lot of great discussions and some pretty phenomenal pieces of art!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIWv2UH4daP7w3s7XGIpn83x1-0XN9TNA_4-7dbDNm7yCsOO9atgS8luNnShMS2BVQGMTA4cPSzA9qNDqFgV_9NV5JXuP3baj02qPknyxylElmHdy8Hc_aynNnWoF-MuKSPBTv-XcrsG5L/s1600/IMAG0523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIWv2UH4daP7w3s7XGIpn83x1-0XN9TNA_4-7dbDNm7yCsOO9atgS8luNnShMS2BVQGMTA4cPSzA9qNDqFgV_9NV5JXuP3baj02qPknyxylElmHdy8Hc_aynNnWoF-MuKSPBTv-XcrsG5L/s640/IMAG0523.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_kaSOzc2E2edmretrRPs1jtuE72tujNpa5NnZrkeU9fDt02V8xh72SIBOuJkvbFNxDyraziI7r2eVznH1jODJBtrr6jgPtzD3TN3wImZkO1xOAWc0aEaYNjrgeSjpQW0dRNVnpO3QRsRl/s1600/IMAG0514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_kaSOzc2E2edmretrRPs1jtuE72tujNpa5NnZrkeU9fDt02V8xh72SIBOuJkvbFNxDyraziI7r2eVznH1jODJBtrr6jgPtzD3TN3wImZkO1xOAWc0aEaYNjrgeSjpQW0dRNVnpO3QRsRl/s640/IMAG0514.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture has evidence of my sick labeling obsession. I wasn't kidding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wSKAbAOWtCekul8pOVe6-Oym6XoPnKnY2yXLgqIcvjs-VedvB82IO_JxyDEF_fAj4wAWf8J3tsoc5cjEX3DIE8BSlBi2H74dndNC1xbkNWzyXSm1x6cEzDeNZ1-vSNO3qvs5cPCAQQUH/s1600/IMAG0516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wSKAbAOWtCekul8pOVe6-Oym6XoPnKnY2yXLgqIcvjs-VedvB82IO_JxyDEF_fAj4wAWf8J3tsoc5cjEX3DIE8BSlBi2H74dndNC1xbkNWzyXSm1x6cEzDeNZ1-vSNO3qvs5cPCAQQUH/s640/IMAG0516.jpg" width="516" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr702D29HytRtztXW7m-k7S3ls-HeNeEh-bcSe3BX9uJfiJAtrrWVizvl6jTUD-GeuxhQ0zWk-0mdq7PujVJErzUB4B1Wj5gH1SyAXl3RBdGKilwG6uUjnezqPpIc71kqYE8o22MRqtEMK/s1600/IMAG0521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr702D29HytRtztXW7m-k7S3ls-HeNeEh-bcSe3BX9uJfiJAtrrWVizvl6jTUD-GeuxhQ0zWk-0mdq7PujVJErzUB4B1Wj5gH1SyAXl3RBdGKilwG6uUjnezqPpIc71kqYE8o22MRqtEMK/s640/IMAG0521.jpg" width="412" /></a></div>
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Happy Friday and Happy Teaching to YOU!</div>
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<a href="http://s1024.photobucket.com/albums/y302/MickeyD13/?action=view&current=sig-12.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1024.photobucket.com/albums/y302/MickeyD13/sig-12.png" /></a></div>
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Amy Johnstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04141440250530886126noreply@blogger.com2