One thing that I have realized, over time but more so recently, is I spend a lot of time worrying about everyone around me, taking care of them, meeting their needs, etc. I spend to much time making sure my kids, my husband, my students, etc. are taken care of that it leaves pretty much no time to take care of myself.
My resolution this year is to make more time for me.... to be able to have time to read for fun, to be able to have time to exercise, to be able to have time to eat breakfast, to have time to pack a healthy lunch, to be able to have time to take an hour long bubble bath.
One thing that I realized over this Christmas break is I am a busy person. I have been in school full time while taking care of 2 small children for the past several years. The past few months I have been swamped with being a first year teacher and trying to figure it out all on my own and still be there for my family. So, when I finally got 2 weeks, I really struggled. I spend the first few days moping around because I was so bored. I really realized how busy I am all the time.
So, this year I am hoping to have more calmness in my life and be able to make more time for me. If I don't take care of me, I won't be able to take care of anyone else.
What are you hoping this year brings you?
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Year after year the same challenge..
I know I have blogged about it time and time and time and time again... but I hope this time it works out for me.
Over the past few years, I have really batted with weight issues. The last time I was thin was in 2008. At the end of 2008, I went back to school and got pregnant with Tayler. I 2009, I was still in school full time and had Tayler. In 2010, I was still in school full time with both kids at home. And in 2011 I finally finished school.
After many failed attempts, I really thought that being out of school and now working I would FINALLY have a schedule to allow me more time and energy to try this whole weight loss thing again. I quickly realized that the was the farthest from easy as possible. Have you ever heard that a teacher's first year is hell? Well, I did and now I believe it. However, it is a new semester and a new year and I REALLY WANT to accomplish this goal. If I can go to school full time and raise 2 kids full time at the same time, then eating healthy and exercising SHOULD BE a piece of cake.
I have recently realized that I have started to have very low self esteem about my personal image. I do not feel confident and often feel very ashamed and embarassed at how I look. I stray from people and social events because of these feelings. And being able to admit that is very scary but refreshing.
Please pray for me as I enter the second semester of my 1st year of teaching. Please pray that I can manage my time, become organized, leave school at a normal time so that I have the energy to prepare non-school things. Please pray that I will have the strength, courage and discipline to conquer this very difficult challenge. I need to lose weight for health reasons - I am at a very unhealthy weight. But I also need to lose weight for myself - I need to be confident and happy with myself.
As the weeks go on, I hope to update you on my small goals.
Even though I would like to do this "all naturally" and with diet and exercise alone, I do not feel that will work for me right now. I have a mental thing where I feel like if I am on a "program" I will be more apt to follow it. Having a guide feels like less work. So, tomorrow I plan to purchase Alli - the only FDA approved over the counter weight loss pill.
Over the past few years, I have really batted with weight issues. The last time I was thin was in 2008. At the end of 2008, I went back to school and got pregnant with Tayler. I 2009, I was still in school full time and had Tayler. In 2010, I was still in school full time with both kids at home. And in 2011 I finally finished school.
After many failed attempts, I really thought that being out of school and now working I would FINALLY have a schedule to allow me more time and energy to try this whole weight loss thing again. I quickly realized that the was the farthest from easy as possible. Have you ever heard that a teacher's first year is hell? Well, I did and now I believe it. However, it is a new semester and a new year and I REALLY WANT to accomplish this goal. If I can go to school full time and raise 2 kids full time at the same time, then eating healthy and exercising SHOULD BE a piece of cake.
I have recently realized that I have started to have very low self esteem about my personal image. I do not feel confident and often feel very ashamed and embarassed at how I look. I stray from people and social events because of these feelings. And being able to admit that is very scary but refreshing.
Please pray for me as I enter the second semester of my 1st year of teaching. Please pray that I can manage my time, become organized, leave school at a normal time so that I have the energy to prepare non-school things. Please pray that I will have the strength, courage and discipline to conquer this very difficult challenge. I need to lose weight for health reasons - I am at a very unhealthy weight. But I also need to lose weight for myself - I need to be confident and happy with myself.
As the weeks go on, I hope to update you on my small goals.
Even though I would like to do this "all naturally" and with diet and exercise alone, I do not feel that will work for me right now. I have a mental thing where I feel like if I am on a "program" I will be more apt to follow it. Having a guide feels like less work. So, tomorrow I plan to purchase Alli - the only FDA approved over the counter weight loss pill.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
A Stolen Life
Last month, I posted that I had decided to start reading "for fun." I am excited to say that I have finished my first book. I finished "The Best of Me," the book I mentioned 2 posts ago. For my first leasurely book, it wasn't bad. However, it wasn't great. The ending was extremely predictable and I guess that is what I disliked the most.
I don't know what it is about me, but I love a true story, especially suspense. My most favorite movies are the true story lifetime movies. I don't know why, but knowing they are based on events that actually happened makes me so much more interested. I also follow stories on the news and when they are turned into movies, such as the Natalie Holloway and Amanda Knox stories. (Natalie Holloway is the teen who went missing in Aruba on her senior trip - she has yet to be found. Amanda Knox is the American student who was found guilty for murder while studying abroad. She was recently retried and found not guilty.) Stories like these, for whatever reason, intrigue me.
I am so used to reading to learn and reading nonfiction (true) books. Maybe this is why I like true stories. Maybe not. Either way, I like a true story.
Another story that I followed on the news was the finding of Jaycee Dugard. I can't remember the exacts, but she is the girl who was kidnapped and held captive for approximately 18 years. (I can't remember the exact number.) She also birthed her kidnapper's children. I remember how shocked I was when I saw it on the news. I remember hearing about all the tips neighbors had sent in and police who "checked" the home. I was enraged at the fact that she could have easily been found if people who have taken better notice. I can imagine that her story is a tough one to learn about. I can also imagine how much of an amazing woman she probably is by surviving so many years of what I would consider a nightmare.
Thus, my next read is: A Stolen Life - A Memoir, by Jaycee Dugard.
I don't know what it is about me, but I love a true story, especially suspense. My most favorite movies are the true story lifetime movies. I don't know why, but knowing they are based on events that actually happened makes me so much more interested. I also follow stories on the news and when they are turned into movies, such as the Natalie Holloway and Amanda Knox stories. (Natalie Holloway is the teen who went missing in Aruba on her senior trip - she has yet to be found. Amanda Knox is the American student who was found guilty for murder while studying abroad. She was recently retried and found not guilty.) Stories like these, for whatever reason, intrigue me.
I am so used to reading to learn and reading nonfiction (true) books. Maybe this is why I like true stories. Maybe not. Either way, I like a true story.
Another story that I followed on the news was the finding of Jaycee Dugard. I can't remember the exacts, but she is the girl who was kidnapped and held captive for approximately 18 years. (I can't remember the exact number.) She also birthed her kidnapper's children. I remember how shocked I was when I saw it on the news. I remember hearing about all the tips neighbors had sent in and police who "checked" the home. I was enraged at the fact that she could have easily been found if people who have taken better notice. I can imagine that her story is a tough one to learn about. I can also imagine how much of an amazing woman she probably is by surviving so many years of what I would consider a nightmare.
Thus, my next read is: A Stolen Life - A Memoir, by Jaycee Dugard.
So much time, so little to do
I cannot believe how fast time is flying by. It seems like just a few weeks ago I got my first teaching job and was putting together a classroom. The school year is now halfway over.
I never understood what people meant when they said your first of teaching is like "trying not to drown." I now understand that saying.
I am now on my 2 week break from work. I so needed this break. Saturday was awesome, just what I needed. I watched lifetime movie after lifetime movie. Saturdays are usually my day to relax so that was no different than the usual week. However, Sundays are always my day to prepare for the week... wash mine and the kids' clothes, wash their school blankets and pillows, do my lessons for the week, etc. Sundays are always very busy as I prepare for the upcoming week. So, this Sunday was very different for me. I had a hard time dealing with having nothing to do. I didn't need to wash my clothes, I didn't need to do lesson plans.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by having nothing to do because you are so used to having so much to do? That is how I have felt the past couple of days.
I never understood what people meant when they said your first of teaching is like "trying not to drown." I now understand that saying.
I am now on my 2 week break from work. I so needed this break. Saturday was awesome, just what I needed. I watched lifetime movie after lifetime movie. Saturdays are usually my day to relax so that was no different than the usual week. However, Sundays are always my day to prepare for the week... wash mine and the kids' clothes, wash their school blankets and pillows, do my lessons for the week, etc. Sundays are always very busy as I prepare for the upcoming week. So, this Sunday was very different for me. I had a hard time dealing with having nothing to do. I didn't need to wash my clothes, I didn't need to do lesson plans.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by having nothing to do because you are so used to having so much to do? That is how I have felt the past couple of days.
Monday, November 7, 2011
"The Best of Me"
In the previous post, I told you I need more time for me, doing the things that I love. Honestly, I don't even really know what those things are.
I have never been on to read "for fun." I always admired people who did but never really understood. I have, for what I can remember, only read one book just because - "The Lovely Bones." I read this in high school I believe. (By the way, the book was better than the movie that came out a few years ago.)
Anyways.... The past few years I have read A LOT, but for educational purposes. I read books for school and books to help me with school. Never a book because I wanted to. I think this has happened for several reasons.
1. I don't have time. Read for fun - what is fun?? :) Definitely haven't had time for that.
2. I am so used to reading to learn. I can't remember the last time I read something without a highlighter and pen beside me.
3. Even if I wanted to purchase a book, I would have no idea where to even start. The bookstore and library is definitely overwhelming.
4. Reading is something that I believe needs to be fostered when children are young. I don't really remember ever reading when I was younger. In high school, we were assigned books - we never got to choose - and they always came along with assignments.
One thing that I really like about the school that I teach at is that we have D.E.A.R. time every day for 30 minutes. D.E.A.R. stands for Drop Everything And Read. This is a time where students get to read whatever book they choose, for fun. No assignments. No questions. Just enjoyable reading. If I had had that when I was younger, I may actually enjoy reading.
Lately I have yeared for quiet, relaxing time. Being with 8-9 year olds all day and then coming home to a 2 and 5 year old makes for a very busy and noisy day. The thought of reading has actually sounded really good.
Yesterday, when I was at Wal-Mart picking up a few organizational items, I decided to purchase a book. Wal-Mart does not have a very large selection but I actually liked that - it wasn't overwhelming for me. So, I decided to go to the Best Seller's section. I figured I couldn't go wrong there. If it was a Best Seller, it must be good, right? So, with much hesitation, I finally picked one....
"The Best of Me" by Nicholas Sparks.
I have heard of him but really know nothing about him. I have to start somewhere so apparantly this is where I am starting. I am oddly looking forward to reading, so I hope I am not disappointed. I am on chapter 3 and so far so good.
I have never been on to read "for fun." I always admired people who did but never really understood. I have, for what I can remember, only read one book just because - "The Lovely Bones." I read this in high school I believe. (By the way, the book was better than the movie that came out a few years ago.)
Anyways.... The past few years I have read A LOT, but for educational purposes. I read books for school and books to help me with school. Never a book because I wanted to. I think this has happened for several reasons.
1. I don't have time. Read for fun - what is fun?? :) Definitely haven't had time for that.
2. I am so used to reading to learn. I can't remember the last time I read something without a highlighter and pen beside me.
3. Even if I wanted to purchase a book, I would have no idea where to even start. The bookstore and library is definitely overwhelming.
4. Reading is something that I believe needs to be fostered when children are young. I don't really remember ever reading when I was younger. In high school, we were assigned books - we never got to choose - and they always came along with assignments.
One thing that I really like about the school that I teach at is that we have D.E.A.R. time every day for 30 minutes. D.E.A.R. stands for Drop Everything And Read. This is a time where students get to read whatever book they choose, for fun. No assignments. No questions. Just enjoyable reading. If I had had that when I was younger, I may actually enjoy reading.
Lately I have yeared for quiet, relaxing time. Being with 8-9 year olds all day and then coming home to a 2 and 5 year old makes for a very busy and noisy day. The thought of reading has actually sounded really good.
Yesterday, when I was at Wal-Mart picking up a few organizational items, I decided to purchase a book. Wal-Mart does not have a very large selection but I actually liked that - it wasn't overwhelming for me. So, I decided to go to the Best Seller's section. I figured I couldn't go wrong there. If it was a Best Seller, it must be good, right? So, with much hesitation, I finally picked one....
"The Best of Me" by Nicholas Sparks.
I have heard of him but really know nothing about him. I have to start somewhere so apparantly this is where I am starting. I am oddly looking forward to reading, so I hope I am not disappointed. I am on chapter 3 and so far so good.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
In Need of Balance
I never realized how difficult being a teacher would be. I was not prepared for the amount of time and preparation that goes into teaching. Statistics show that half of teachers quit within 5 years. I can definitely see why. Being a teacher is not an 8-5 job, especially when it is the first year. (However, I will NOT be a part of that statistic.)
Every day for me is a new day. I have to figure out what I am going to teach, how I am going to teach it, make sure I have all necessary papers made and copied. Then I have to figure out what I am going to take for a grade, grade it (I have 52 students) then figure out when I am going to test them, make sure they will be ready for their test, etc. I also have all of this at the start of the week. Lesson plans are due on Monday for the entire week. Then at the end of every day, I have to find the bottom of my desk because it is buried under papers, games, supplies, etc. from that day. I am exhausted just from writing all of that. Needless to say, I LOVE being a teacher but it is a very time consuming job, something that no one understands besides another teacher.
Lately, I have felt very overwhelmed from how much time I feel like I devote to school-work. After school, in the evenings at home, on the weekends, etc. I just haven't been able to find a balance. I have no time for me, let alone my family or friends.
This week starts the beginning of the 3rd 6 weeks. (I can't believe I have already gone through 2 grading periods!!) My goal for this 6 weeks is to get myself organized and find a balance and stop spending so much "overtime" on school work for free. I want to be able to exercise, cook dinner, play with the kids, clean, (Yes, I actually want to clean. Can you believe that!?) and spend time with my family and friends.
In finding this new balance, I am also hoping to blog more... so stay tuned!
Every day for me is a new day. I have to figure out what I am going to teach, how I am going to teach it, make sure I have all necessary papers made and copied. Then I have to figure out what I am going to take for a grade, grade it (I have 52 students) then figure out when I am going to test them, make sure they will be ready for their test, etc. I also have all of this at the start of the week. Lesson plans are due on Monday for the entire week. Then at the end of every day, I have to find the bottom of my desk because it is buried under papers, games, supplies, etc. from that day. I am exhausted just from writing all of that. Needless to say, I LOVE being a teacher but it is a very time consuming job, something that no one understands besides another teacher.
Lately, I have felt very overwhelmed from how much time I feel like I devote to school-work. After school, in the evenings at home, on the weekends, etc. I just haven't been able to find a balance. I have no time for me, let alone my family or friends.
This week starts the beginning of the 3rd 6 weeks. (I can't believe I have already gone through 2 grading periods!!) My goal for this 6 weeks is to get myself organized and find a balance and stop spending so much "overtime" on school work for free. I want to be able to exercise, cook dinner, play with the kids, clean, (Yes, I actually want to clean. Can you believe that!?) and spend time with my family and friends.
In finding this new balance, I am also hoping to blog more... so stay tuned!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
I'm Alive!
I just wanted to touch base and let all know that I survived my first week of school. It has been a long, overwhelming, exhausting, frustrating and exciting week.
Monday, August 8, 2011
"Jungle Bucks"
I made these for my classroom to go with my jungle theme. :)
I am not sure how they will be earned or what they will be able to "buy" with them but I am going to shoot for more non-material objects, like extra time on the computer, lunch with the teacher, sit at the teacher's desk, etc. I may do a few small items like pencils and erasers but I am not going to do the typical "treasure box." I just don't want to bribe kids with toys. With the pencils, it will teach them to be responsible because I will make them "buy" one if they do not come prepared.
So far I have made them in $1, $5 and $10 bills. I also have $20, $50 and $100 that still need to be printed. Since I am going to be a math teacher and all, they will be able to practice trading smaller bills for larger bills.
So far I have made them in $1, $5 and $10 bills. I also have $20, $50 and $100 that still need to be printed. Since I am going to be a math teacher and all, they will be able to practice trading smaller bills for larger bills.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Got MY keys!!!
This morning I went to the school and picked up MY keys to MY classroom. :) It is all so real now!!
Since I can lock my door now, I went ahead and took some things up there since it was early and I was able to leave the kids at home asleep. I figured it would be easier to carry things without having to worry about them running off.
Unfortunately, the teacher's desks, chairs and small cabinets were all in boxes and needed to be put together. However, there were sooo many parents there helping getting things set up. It is exciting to see that there is going to be a lot of parent involvement.
While I was there, I got my desk put together and was able, with some parents, to get my student desks and chairs put in my classroom. I was glad I was able to get the desks set up because I was able to see how much "extra" space I will have. Now I know what things I can and cannot bring.
Standing at the door....
I have my ESL (English as a second language) certification exam on Monday so I am hoping I can get back in there on Tuesday. :)
Since I can lock my door now, I went ahead and took some things up there since it was early and I was able to leave the kids at home asleep. I figured it would be easier to carry things without having to worry about them running off.
Unfortunately, the teacher's desks, chairs and small cabinets were all in boxes and needed to be put together. However, there were sooo many parents there helping getting things set up. It is exciting to see that there is going to be a lot of parent involvement.
While I was there, I got my desk put together and was able, with some parents, to get my student desks and chairs put in my classroom. I was glad I was able to get the desks set up because I was able to see how much "extra" space I will have. Now I know what things I can and cannot bring.
Standing at the door....
My board will be going on that orange wall.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Today I got to see MY classroom!!
Below are pictures around the room...
Starting with... walking through the door... (windows on the opposite side.)
The wall on the side of the door.
The wall on the left.
The wall on the right.
Looking at the door.
I am so excited to start moving in!! There will eventually be a board and furniture but they haven't been put in yet.
Below are pictures around the room...
Starting with... walking through the door... (windows on the opposite side.)
I am so excited to start moving in!! There will eventually be a board and furniture but they haven't been put in yet.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Update & Weekly Weigh-In
I haven't blogged much lately and didn't keep up with my weekly posts either. To be honest, it is very rare I even get on the computer anymore.
I am loving summer but I am at the point where I am ready for it to be over. I still have a lot of things to do before the school year starts but I am just so ready and excited to start my career.
Being a stay at home mom is difficult for me. I have definitely fallen back into the rut I used to be in when I was home all of the time. I get so bored and that causes me to feel down and that causes me to eat. I have not done very well the past month or so in the weightloss department. I actually gained 4 pounds. :( However, I worked really hard this week and I was able to lose those few pounds, so now I am back to where I was at my last post.
I feel like I have finally pulled myself out of this at-home rut and have found my motivation again. I have gone to the pool a few times in the past 2 weeks and every time I go I see moms who are older than me with kids younger than mine in bikinis. I sit there and think "man, I wish I could look like that." And then I realized - why can't I? Today I saw a lady who looked like she was 40 with a 3 yr old and she was wearing a bikini. UGH! If these people are older than me, and their kids are younger than mine, then there is no reason I can't wear a bikini too!
The other night I had an adult temper tantrum and Kyle so kindly sat their and listened. :) I was venting how I feel like my life revolves around everyone else. Everyone comes first, all the time. I vented about this is the reason I am fat because I never have time for me. Then I watched "Extreme Makeover: Weightloss Edition." The woman on the episode was morbidly obese, worked full time and took care of her kids and husband. I so sympathized with her. The trainer told her that sometimes you just have to make everyone else take a backseat and it is okay to put ourselves first. That really hit home for me. That is exactly what I need to do. So, I have decided to let everyone take a backseat. I will take the kids to the park and the pool - but they have to sit through a 45 minute walk first. The kids can watch cartoons - but they aren't allowed to bug me because I am going to exercise for 2 hours while they watch tv (instead of me watching tv for 2 hours too.) Kyle also hooked up a tv in the exercise room for me and ran the cable lines so now I try and watch the shows I like live instead of on dvr so that I can watch them and exercise at the same time in the exercise room (there is no dvr in there.)
I have only had this new attitude for a few days now but I am hopeful I can stick to it again. If I can just get through the next 4 weeks, I will have no problems because after that I will be working and on my feet all day and I won't be around food 24/7 and I know the weight will fall off. I even made myself motivational posters and hung them up in the exercise room. One of them says.... You didn't get a college degree without studying. You won't get skinny without exercising. I worked so hard to finish school so if I put that same effort into exercising then I know I can do it.
So anyways, enough with the words.... Here are some pictures from today:
I am loving summer but I am at the point where I am ready for it to be over. I still have a lot of things to do before the school year starts but I am just so ready and excited to start my career.
Being a stay at home mom is difficult for me. I have definitely fallen back into the rut I used to be in when I was home all of the time. I get so bored and that causes me to feel down and that causes me to eat. I have not done very well the past month or so in the weightloss department. I actually gained 4 pounds. :( However, I worked really hard this week and I was able to lose those few pounds, so now I am back to where I was at my last post.
I feel like I have finally pulled myself out of this at-home rut and have found my motivation again. I have gone to the pool a few times in the past 2 weeks and every time I go I see moms who are older than me with kids younger than mine in bikinis. I sit there and think "man, I wish I could look like that." And then I realized - why can't I? Today I saw a lady who looked like she was 40 with a 3 yr old and she was wearing a bikini. UGH! If these people are older than me, and their kids are younger than mine, then there is no reason I can't wear a bikini too!
The other night I had an adult temper tantrum and Kyle so kindly sat their and listened. :) I was venting how I feel like my life revolves around everyone else. Everyone comes first, all the time. I vented about this is the reason I am fat because I never have time for me. Then I watched "Extreme Makeover: Weightloss Edition." The woman on the episode was morbidly obese, worked full time and took care of her kids and husband. I so sympathized with her. The trainer told her that sometimes you just have to make everyone else take a backseat and it is okay to put ourselves first. That really hit home for me. That is exactly what I need to do. So, I have decided to let everyone take a backseat. I will take the kids to the park and the pool - but they have to sit through a 45 minute walk first. The kids can watch cartoons - but they aren't allowed to bug me because I am going to exercise for 2 hours while they watch tv (instead of me watching tv for 2 hours too.) Kyle also hooked up a tv in the exercise room for me and ran the cable lines so now I try and watch the shows I like live instead of on dvr so that I can watch them and exercise at the same time in the exercise room (there is no dvr in there.)
I have only had this new attitude for a few days now but I am hopeful I can stick to it again. If I can just get through the next 4 weeks, I will have no problems because after that I will be working and on my feet all day and I won't be around food 24/7 and I know the weight will fall off. I even made myself motivational posters and hung them up in the exercise room. One of them says.... You didn't get a college degree without studying. You won't get skinny without exercising. I worked so hard to finish school so if I put that same effort into exercising then I know I can do it.
So anyways, enough with the words.... Here are some pictures from today:
First, the kids to a "backseat" :) and I pushed them for about 45 minutes around the neighborhood. Kyle got my stroller "fixed" so I am hoping it won't break on me again.
Then we stopped at the park for some play time.
Last, we stopped off at the splash pad next to the park. They were so hot and I didn't have swimsuits with me so they just played in their clothes. We were the only ones there so it was nice and I was able to sit in the shade and cool off.
I have found that when I exercise right before it is time for a meal, I make better food choices. I was so exhausted when we got home so I just whipped this up real quick for dinner for me. (Grilled chicken, okra, broccoli and an orange.)
Pounds Lost: 26 pounds
Pounds Left: 46 pounds
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Feeling GRRRReat!
These letters are for one of my bulletin boards will I will display impressive work....
These animal friends below will eventually be cut apart (and laminated) and one will be on each side of the board kind of displaying/pointing to the work that is displayed.
These little guys were extremely difficult... definitely the hardest animals I have drawn so far. You can tell I free handed them because they definitely do not look the same, but that's ok.. they don't have to be twins. :)
Sunday, June 26, 2011
birdies
I am going to have some sort of tree(s) in my classroom. What's a jungle without some trees!?
These birds will be sitting on branches in my tree(s).
(Note: that is why the feathers around his feet are not colored in - that part will be cut out so that the branch can go in between and under.)
(They will eventually be cut out and laminated.)
These were each done on 1/4 of a piece of cardboard and done free handed - no tracing. :)
Whenever I sew, I am so relaxed and happy. I feel the same way when I am drawing and coloring. I am having so much fun creating all of these animals!
Whenever I sew, I am so relaxed and happy. I feel the same way when I am drawing and coloring. I am having so much fun creating all of these animals!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Planning Ahead
I haven't decided if I should consider myself a nerd, an over achiever, a perfectionist or prepared. Maybe all of them?
Why is it that the excitement of new binders and dividers excites me? Why is it that it is summer yet I cannot keep myself from doing "school work." Am I just used to it or do I just love school? I don't know!!
Thursday I turned in my contract for my teaching position as well as all the other paperwork. I decided to carry my own insurance as well as switch the kids. Kyle's employer does not contribute to their insurance so by me carrying the kids, we will save a little over $200 a month! (I like to think of that as my added gas expense for the month. :) )
So anyways, the principal informed me that he had decided to have the 3rd grade teachers (myself and 1 other teacher) team teach instead of self-contained. What this means is that now instead of having 1 class where I teach every subject, I will have 2 classes. I will be the math and science teacher and the other teacher will do reading/writing and social studies and then we will switch. After putting together my curriculum binders today, I have to say, I am very pleased with this decision!
With this being my first year, I have no past lessons and experience to rely on. Everything will be new for me. So I think planning for 2 subjects will be A LOT less stressful than teaching 5 subjects. So, I am very pleased.
Going with my jungle theme, these are my curriculum binders:
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Why is it that the excitement of new binders and dividers excites me? Why is it that it is summer yet I cannot keep myself from doing "school work." Am I just used to it or do I just love school? I don't know!!
Thursday I turned in my contract for my teaching position as well as all the other paperwork. I decided to carry my own insurance as well as switch the kids. Kyle's employer does not contribute to their insurance so by me carrying the kids, we will save a little over $200 a month! (I like to think of that as my added gas expense for the month. :) )
So anyways, the principal informed me that he had decided to have the 3rd grade teachers (myself and 1 other teacher) team teach instead of self-contained. What this means is that now instead of having 1 class where I teach every subject, I will have 2 classes. I will be the math and science teacher and the other teacher will do reading/writing and social studies and then we will switch. After putting together my curriculum binders today, I have to say, I am very pleased with this decision!
With this being my first year, I have no past lessons and experience to rely on. Everything will be new for me. So I think planning for 2 subjects will be A LOT less stressful than teaching 5 subjects. So, I am very pleased.
Going with my jungle theme, these are my curriculum binders:
No, I did not have to start doing this. However, I hear so many stories about how the first year is so overwhelming and first year teachers can barely stay afloat. I want my first year to be as smooth as possible, so I want to be as prepared as possible. So, I would rather start planning what I am going to teach now than wait until school starts. I want to be able to spend time with my family after school and on the weekends and not be doing school work 24/7. So, I am trying to plan and get organized now.
Here is a side shot of my binders....
can you believe this doesn't even include the lesson plans!? This is just the information on what has to be taught.... like I said, very pleased I only have to do 2 subjects. :) I took the kids with me up to my university this morning. I still have a lot of money on my printing account that is paid with tuition so I figured I should use their paper and ink that I already paid for. I swear I used an entire pack of paper!
I have been very blessed to have gotten a job so quickly in this crazy economy where school districts everywhere are laying off teachers. So, I am just hoping that everything continues to run smoothly and I can stay placed in 3rd grade. There is always a chance that teachers can be moved because your contract has you listed as "teacher" so you can be placed, and changed, into any grade and subject that you are certified. So, I just hope I am not doing all of this planning and then get moved. That would, for lack of better words, suck. lol.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Spotted!
I plan to have a bulletin board titled "Spotted.... Students at work" to display the students' work. I have already cut the letters out onto giraffe/cheetah paper. Below are 2 animals friends that will be on each side of the board. I drew them both free handed by looking at a clip art picture - I did not trace it.
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It seems like the more I draw these, the more difficult they get! I think the next thing I will do will be something with less detail.
New Items!
Monkeys are really hard to draw! I had enough space so I drew in the banana on this one. She will eventually be hanging from a tree... Still needs to be cut out and laminated. She is the size of half of a poster board.
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What do you think??? I think I found a new hobby!
I also went to hobby lobby today to get fabric to make throw pillows for my classroom library. I guess animal print is going out of season/style because the clearance aisle was full of animal items. I snagged this lamp for $20!! (It was regularly $100!)
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Here is one of the few figurines I got. He was on clearance for $4.00! I think it is very fitting - an ape reading a book. :)
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What do you think??? I think I found a new hobby!
I also went to hobby lobby today to get fabric to make throw pillows for my classroom library. I guess animal print is going out of season/style because the clearance aisle was full of animal items. I snagged this lamp for $20!! (It was regularly $100!)
Sunday, June 19, 2011
No monkey business!
Okay... I admit... I am addicted to my new found talent. I love drawing. I love coloring. I can't get enough of it! Sooooo here is the 3rd addition to my jungle friends.
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He will be swinging from a tree in the classroom and will be holding a banana with his clutched hand. (He was done on 1/2 sheet of large poster board.) He still needs to be cut out and laminated.
So far, this one was the most difficult one to draw. I messed up a lot. And it is not any where near 100% symmetrical. BUT I am a beginner and I still think it is cute.
He will be swinging from a tree in the classroom and will be holding a banana with his clutched hand. (He was done on 1/2 sheet of large poster board.) He still needs to be cut out and laminated.
So far, this one was the most difficult one to draw. I messed up a lot. And it is not any where near 100% symmetrical. BUT I am a beginner and I still think it is cute.
Another Lion!
Got another lion done. I am hoping to build a "Lion's den" for my library... so Lion's Library or something like that. So here is another animal friend for my classroom library. :)
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This was also done on a large poster board. I still need to cut it out and get it laminated.
This was also done on a large poster board. I still need to cut it out and get it laminated.
New found Talent!
So this past week I have been working on what theme I want for my classroom. I have decided on a jungle theme. There are so many things I need, and want, and schools don't supply anything "extra" such as decorations. So, I have been trying to think of ways that I can make everything instead of buying premade items.
I have never thought of myself as an artist. I was never good at drawing. But I really want jungle animals in my classroom, so I decided to try.....
I have completely surprised myself! I printed a clip art picture Simba from the Jungle Book. I decided to see if I could draw him free hand by looking at the picture. Below is my finished project.
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He is the size of a large poster board. I will eventually cut him out and laminate him. Note: This was not drawn using a projector or tracing it. I did everything freehand by looking at the picture.
This project was so fun and relaxing. I can't wait to start the next one! Oh, and did I mention how cheap this was!? A 30 cent poster board, 1 marker and a few colored pencils.
Today I discovered a talent that I never knew I had!!
(oh and tayler got the edge with purple crayon. let's just say she was a very lucky girl for getting it outside of the lion lines... :) )
I have never thought of myself as an artist. I was never good at drawing. But I really want jungle animals in my classroom, so I decided to try.....
I have completely surprised myself! I printed a clip art picture Simba from the Jungle Book. I decided to see if I could draw him free hand by looking at the picture. Below is my finished project.
He is the size of a large poster board. I will eventually cut him out and laminate him. Note: This was not drawn using a projector or tracing it. I did everything freehand by looking at the picture.
This project was so fun and relaxing. I can't wait to start the next one! Oh, and did I mention how cheap this was!? A 30 cent poster board, 1 marker and a few colored pencils.
Today I discovered a talent that I never knew I had!!
(oh and tayler got the edge with purple crayon. let's just say she was a very lucky girl for getting it outside of the lion lines... :) )
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Am I a Nerd???
I think I am a nerd. And I know I have found my calling.
Today I picked up my new employee paperwork from "my Principal." Included in the packet was an article to read (in reference to teaching reading/writing) as well as information on how to register for and take professional development courses online.
I have found myself to be very excited about registering for these courses, watching the videos and reading the article. For the past two years, I have continued to WANT to keep learning more and more above and beyond the basic requirements.
I got out a new binder and new dividers so that I can start pytting together a curriculum binder so that I can start planning and preparing. I don't know why the thought of a new binder and dividers excites me so much.
Anyways, I can't believe that I am starting a curriculum binder! I can't believe that I am going to be a teacher. I can't believe, in the midst of this economy, that I obtained a job and that I am going to have my own classroom! I am just so excited, which is why I am already planning and preparing. It's never too early to get organized.... :)
Today I picked up my new employee paperwork from "my Principal." Included in the packet was an article to read (in reference to teaching reading/writing) as well as information on how to register for and take professional development courses online.
I have found myself to be very excited about registering for these courses, watching the videos and reading the article. For the past two years, I have continued to WANT to keep learning more and more above and beyond the basic requirements.
I got out a new binder and new dividers so that I can start pytting together a curriculum binder so that I can start planning and preparing. I don't know why the thought of a new binder and dividers excites me so much.
Anyways, I can't believe that I am starting a curriculum binder! I can't believe that I am going to be a teacher. I can't believe, in the midst of this economy, that I obtained a job and that I am going to have my own classroom! I am just so excited, which is why I am already planning and preparing. It's never too early to get organized.... :)
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Cloud 9
I am on "Cloud 9" right now!!!!
Exactly one month ago, I graduated from college. This was such an exciting time to FINALLY be done with school but also a discouraging time. As most of you are aware of the current education budget cuts, graduating with a degree in education felt really useless. BUT I decided to stay hopeful and positive. I kept telling myself... If I am meant to be a teacher, I will find a position.
2 Saturdays ago, I attended a job fair. I stood in line for 3 hours. There had to have been 700 people there. Although everyone was applying for different campuses, it was still discouraging seeing how many people were looking for teaching positions. But, the next evening, I received a phone call for a job interview. I had an interview last Thursday. At the end of my interview, I was asked to come back for a 2nd interview. I had that second interview on Saturday. At that interview, I had to actually teach a lesson for the Principal.
Well, today, exactly one month after I graduated, I have received an offer to become a 3rd grade teacher for the next school year! This is a dream come true!!! I have always wanted a 3rd or 4th grade self contained class. (Self contained means you have 1 class all day, so you teach every subject.) But most schools have started switching teachers in 2nd grade. I obtained a 3rd grade self-contained position, the position that is unheard of but I thought of as my "dream position."
So many people have told me I might not get a job until October, until all the student enrollments are official and schools see how many teachers they need. It was so nervewracking thinking I might not get a job or who knows when it will be. I was so stressed about having to spend all summer applying and trying. I am so relieved that I can now spend all summer knowing I have a classroom waiting for me! I am so happy right now I could cry!!
Exactly one month ago, I graduated from college. This was such an exciting time to FINALLY be done with school but also a discouraging time. As most of you are aware of the current education budget cuts, graduating with a degree in education felt really useless. BUT I decided to stay hopeful and positive. I kept telling myself... If I am meant to be a teacher, I will find a position.
2 Saturdays ago, I attended a job fair. I stood in line for 3 hours. There had to have been 700 people there. Although everyone was applying for different campuses, it was still discouraging seeing how many people were looking for teaching positions. But, the next evening, I received a phone call for a job interview. I had an interview last Thursday. At the end of my interview, I was asked to come back for a 2nd interview. I had that second interview on Saturday. At that interview, I had to actually teach a lesson for the Principal.
Well, today, exactly one month after I graduated, I have received an offer to become a 3rd grade teacher for the next school year! This is a dream come true!!! I have always wanted a 3rd or 4th grade self contained class. (Self contained means you have 1 class all day, so you teach every subject.) But most schools have started switching teachers in 2nd grade. I obtained a 3rd grade self-contained position, the position that is unheard of but I thought of as my "dream position."
So many people have told me I might not get a job until October, until all the student enrollments are official and schools see how many teachers they need. It was so nervewracking thinking I might not get a job or who knows when it will be. I was so stressed about having to spend all summer applying and trying. I am so relieved that I can now spend all summer knowing I have a classroom waiting for me! I am so happy right now I could cry!!
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Weekly Weigh-In
This is what I wrote in my unpublished blog at the beginning of the week..... After hitting two wonderful milestones this week, I suddenly found it much easier to make the right food choices and make myself exercise. I took pictures of myself at my biggest so now after hitting the 25 pounds loss mark, I took new pictures in the same clothes and in the same poses. I compared them so that I could visually see what differences there are. Seeing a smaller belly and smaller neck from 25 pounds ago has also given me an extra sense of hope. I am finally feeling like this whole weight loss thing is really going to happen for me.
Now at the end of the week, these are my thoughts....This week started out really well but that changed very quickly. I saw firsthand today what has caused me to gain weight - stress, exhaustion, and a crazy schedule. Kyle was put on night shift this week and it has made things really crazy around here. It is EXTREMELY difficult keeping 2 toddlers quiet so that he can sleep during the day so we ended up going to bed extremely late and sleeping really late. We ended up putting ourselves on a schedule similar to Kyle's. That did not treat my body well. I have had no energy, have made horrible food choices, have felt really down, etc. In addition, I had 2 job interviews that I had to prepare for this week (the second I hate to teach a lesson) and that added a lot of stress. Also, on our way back from a walk, my double stroller broke coming up the driveway. Thank goodness it was right when we got home but it has got me really down - I finally found something that the kids and I enjoy and now I can't even do it anymore. So anyways, when I was in school full time, I always stayed up late trying to get studying done, was stressed out from being home with the kids every day (something that I am again having to get used to), I had no energy, was exhausted, was down, etc. This week I felt EXACTLY like I had felt every day when I was in school full time for the past 2 years. This week I saw how hard of a time I had and realized that these are the reasons I have gained so much weight. Luckily Kyle won't be on night shift for a few more weeks but when he is, he is going to have to learn how to sleep with ear plugs in. I have got to get back on a normal schedule. The past few weeks we were on a normal schedule and I was able to lose weight. This past week, it was just difficult for me. But, I have seen my weaknesses and my problems and I am bound to have bad weeks. This was one for me. So, I am looking forward to addressing these problems this week. Even though I did not lose, I also thankfully did not gain. I had lost 1 1/2 pounds at the beginning of the week so the second half of the week gained them back, so I am back to where I was last Sunday.
This past week, I lost 0 pounds.
As of today....
Pounds Lost: 24 pounds
Pounds Left: 48 pounds
Now at the end of the week, these are my thoughts....This week started out really well but that changed very quickly. I saw firsthand today what has caused me to gain weight - stress, exhaustion, and a crazy schedule. Kyle was put on night shift this week and it has made things really crazy around here. It is EXTREMELY difficult keeping 2 toddlers quiet so that he can sleep during the day so we ended up going to bed extremely late and sleeping really late. We ended up putting ourselves on a schedule similar to Kyle's. That did not treat my body well. I have had no energy, have made horrible food choices, have felt really down, etc. In addition, I had 2 job interviews that I had to prepare for this week (the second I hate to teach a lesson) and that added a lot of stress. Also, on our way back from a walk, my double stroller broke coming up the driveway. Thank goodness it was right when we got home but it has got me really down - I finally found something that the kids and I enjoy and now I can't even do it anymore. So anyways, when I was in school full time, I always stayed up late trying to get studying done, was stressed out from being home with the kids every day (something that I am again having to get used to), I had no energy, was exhausted, was down, etc. This week I felt EXACTLY like I had felt every day when I was in school full time for the past 2 years. This week I saw how hard of a time I had and realized that these are the reasons I have gained so much weight. Luckily Kyle won't be on night shift for a few more weeks but when he is, he is going to have to learn how to sleep with ear plugs in. I have got to get back on a normal schedule. The past few weeks we were on a normal schedule and I was able to lose weight. This past week, it was just difficult for me. But, I have seen my weaknesses and my problems and I am bound to have bad weeks. This was one for me. So, I am looking forward to addressing these problems this week. Even though I did not lose, I also thankfully did not gain. I had lost 1 1/2 pounds at the beginning of the week so the second half of the week gained them back, so I am back to where I was last Sunday.
This past week, I lost 0 pounds.
As of today....
Pounds Lost: 24 pounds
Pounds Left: 48 pounds
Friday, June 10, 2011
Tayler
Happy Birthday to my Little Princess!!!
Today Tayler turned TWO!! Can you believe it has already been two years!? I can't!
Here is a stroll down memory lane....
Meeting her for the first time:
Colton meeting his little sister for the first time:
4 months old:
She learns how to sit:
She learns how to walk:
She turns 1:
Her hair gets long!
She gets food allergies:
She becomes silly!
She play dress up:
She turns TWO!!
She LOVES her babies!
Now I feel sad looking at all of these old pictures. I love that we are out of the "baby stage" but I am sad at how fast time has flown by.
Happy Birthday Tayler!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Milestones :)
On Sunday I had my weekly weigh in. I only lost 1 pound but I have been trying to not let that discourage me. I have been exercising more than usual so I didn't understand why I did not lose more. However, now I am jumping for joy!! I have reached 2 important milestones that have really made me believe that my work is paying off and that there is hope for me being skinny again.
Milestone #1: My wedding ring fits!!!!! I have not been able to wear it for over a year now. I can now put it on without it cutting off my circulation!
Milestone #2: The next milestone that I am going to share with you is really personal and embarassing but I want to share how far I have already come. I am proud and maybe it will give you hope if you too are struggling. At the beginning of the year, at my biggest, I was wearing a size 18 pant. This is what made me realize that I need to make a change. I could not believe I had gotten that big - I never even realized I had put on THAT much weight. I went from being an 8 before I got pregnant with Tayler to an 18. Well, yesterday I got dressed up to go submit job applications. I cannot tell you how great it felt to walk out of the house wearing a size 12!!! Now, I can't get into size 12 jeans but all I care about is the number on that pair of pants I wore! This is the first time in a long time that I do believe in myself! For the first time in about a year, I actually believe that this whole losing weight thing is possible.
Slowly but surely I will beat this battle.
Milestone #1: My wedding ring fits!!!!! I have not been able to wear it for over a year now. I can now put it on without it cutting off my circulation!
Milestone #2: The next milestone that I am going to share with you is really personal and embarassing but I want to share how far I have already come. I am proud and maybe it will give you hope if you too are struggling. At the beginning of the year, at my biggest, I was wearing a size 18 pant. This is what made me realize that I need to make a change. I could not believe I had gotten that big - I never even realized I had put on THAT much weight. I went from being an 8 before I got pregnant with Tayler to an 18. Well, yesterday I got dressed up to go submit job applications. I cannot tell you how great it felt to walk out of the house wearing a size 12!!! Now, I can't get into size 12 jeans but all I care about is the number on that pair of pants I wore! This is the first time in a long time that I do believe in myself! For the first time in about a year, I actually believe that this whole losing weight thing is possible.
Slowly but surely I will beat this battle.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Weekly Weigh-In
This week I exercised a lot harder than last week. I jogged instead of walked, I added more resistance on the machines and added in strength training. I also ate really good. But minimal weightloss. I'm not really sure why. I exercised a lot harder this week so I'm not sure if it's because I added in the strength training and my body is in shock or what. Either way, I am looking forward to next week to see if my body is willing to accept these changes. The past few months I have not exercised at all and lost and now that I am exercising I am not losing. When I lost my first 19 pounds, I did it by diet alone and now I am exercising. I don't get it. BUT no loss or little loss is waaaaay better than a gain!
Also - I am going to continue these posts because it has really helped hold me accountable. When I want to give up, I think about how "everyone" is going to know I gave up. Trying to lose weight alone and without a buddy is extremely difficult. I feel like I have no absolutely no support system. So when I think about everyone reading how I am doing, I don't want everyone to know I was a slacker. :)
Anyways........
I am pleased to announce that this past week, I lost 1 (one) pound.
As of today....
Pounds Lost: 24 pounds
Pounds Left: 48 pounds
Exercise Log for this week:
Sunday: None :(
Monday: None :(
Tuesday: Walk/jog w/ the dog - 30 min
Wednesday: 70 minutes: Walk/jog w/ the dog - 30 min; bicycle machine - 40 min
Thursday: 1 hour in home gym: 15 minutes strength training, 45 minutes cardio
Friday: 1 1/2 hours in home gym: 15 minutes strength training, 75 minutes cardio
Saturday: None :(
Also - I am going to continue these posts because it has really helped hold me accountable. When I want to give up, I think about how "everyone" is going to know I gave up. Trying to lose weight alone and without a buddy is extremely difficult. I feel like I have no absolutely no support system. So when I think about everyone reading how I am doing, I don't want everyone to know I was a slacker. :)
Anyways........
I am pleased to announce that this past week, I lost 1 (one) pound.
As of today....
Pounds Lost: 24 pounds
Pounds Left: 48 pounds
Exercise Log for this week:
Sunday: None :(
Monday: None :(
Tuesday: Walk/jog w/ the dog - 30 min
Wednesday: 70 minutes: Walk/jog w/ the dog - 30 min; bicycle machine - 40 min
Thursday: 1 hour in home gym: 15 minutes strength training, 45 minutes cardio
Friday: 1 1/2 hours in home gym: 15 minutes strength training, 75 minutes cardio
Saturday: None :(
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Female Inspiration
This is how I have felt for about the past year, the time period that I have put on most of my weight. 
Last night I was watching Extreme Makeover: Weightloss Edition and the girl on the show was 21 years old and was very successful at everything she did, especially academics. She was such an over achiever in every aspect of her life, except for weightloss. She reminded me soooo much of myself. Why I can accomplish every goal except for losing weight? One reason is because I am an emotional eater: sadness, anger, boredom, happiness, etc.... I eat. One thing I am currently trying to focus on is what triggers me to eat and figuring out a way I can stop it. Last night I was so bored and wanted to eat just to give me something to do. So, I caught that urge and as much as I did not feel like exercising, I took the dog for a walk and I felt sooo much better afterwards! The cravings were gone. :)
As you may or may not know, The Biggest Loser is one of my favorite shows. It is amazing to me how people can lose so much weight by just diet and exercise. I just found some before and after pictures of some of my most favorite and inspirational past contestants.
Olivia, this season's winner. Went from 261 lbs to 132 lbs (-129)
Hannah, Olivia's sis - runner up. Went from 248 to 128 lbs. (-120)
Rebecca, season 2009 at home winner. (Lost 139 pounds)
If these girls can look this great after losing that much weight, then I want to look like them!
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