teaching in heels

Recent Pins & Purchases

2012-01-25T14:35:00.000-08:00

I've been on a shopping kick lately. It's not a good thing for my wallet, so instead I've been trying to pin some things for later :)

Topshop Tote

I love this color blocking with neon. I didn't purchase though since it's a little smaller than I like my totes.

La Pochette Clutch

I love this color, but not the price $145 is a little too high for me.

Forever 21 Pouch

Now this little pouch fits my budget at only $10.50. A fun pop of color inside your purse!

Forever 21 Striped Cardigan

I love this one! I purchased it in a light gray stripe, but I think I might exchange it for the navy or a bright neon or red color.

Forever 21 Cross-Body Bag

I love the metallic on this bag!

Forever 21 Bracelet

I also purchased this one :) I think it's be a simple DIY, but for just a couple dollars I just purchased.

Forever 21 Sweater

I also purchased this one. I love the metallic thread it has too.

Alright, so maybe I purchased a couple more things than I should have lately :) Have you purchased any little pretties lately?

Shopping the Sales

2012-01-21T21:49:00.000-08:00

I've been dying to shop lately!! I have been so good and not spending, but I would love to splurge!! I was looking at the fabulous sales on piperlime this weekend. Here are some of the gorgeous pieces I just might purchase, especially since they're part of a huge sale right now!

Everest by Tinley Road

I love the pop of color on these! I think for the price they're perfect for the neon trend.

Polka Dot Blouse by Collective Concepts

I'm loving the polka dots on this cute top! I think it'd look so cute paired with skinnies and a black blazer.

Pintuck Henley Top by Hive & Honey

Isn't this one cute? I love the lacey detail in the stripes. I think it's perfect for dressing up a little for work or dressing down to run errands on the weekend.

Coconuts Flats

I need a few new pairs of flats, but I'm not completely sold on these. I like the stud detail, but I might keep looking on these.

Charles Albert Nude Heels

I love the nude heels with colorful outfits. Do you like the loafer look with the heel and ankle strap? Too many trends in one?

What have you purchased lately? Where are your favorite sites to shop sales?

Golden Globes Fashion

2012-01-15T19:58:00.000-08:00

Lately I haven't been watching the awards shows, but I always love the fashion. What girl doesn't?! :)

Here are some of my favorites...

Elle Macpherson

Debra Messing

Kate Beckinsale

Jessica Alba

Diane Lane

Reese Witherspoon

Salma Hayek - I love her hair and the sparkle of this dress, although it's not my favorite of the night.

Jenna Dewan - love the color!

Maria Menounos

Nicole Richie

Sarah Hyland - I love the hair and the belt on this dress.

What dresses did you like from the Golden Globes?

Making our House a Home

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

This week's pinterest pins area all about decor for the home! My boyfriend and I have been slowly filling up our condo with new pieces and here are some pieces we're still hoping to add.

We plan on buying this bar table and putting shelves above like the following pictures. I love how the wine glasses are stored below the floating shelves.

We need to buy curtains for a sliding door in our living room. I'm thinking of getting some like in this picture. I love the detail at the top and the white will add some lightness to our dark pieces of furniture and dark floors too. I'm even trying to convince the boyfriend that we should do a built-in near our fireplace too, but that's definitely not a priority yet.

In our entryway we need to get a table, and I'd love a mirror too. I'm having a hard time finding a table that's the right height though, any suggestions?

I'm loving this headboard. I also like that there's no dust ruffle on the bed. We're looking for fabric headboards like this one.

This table we actually purchased from Urban Home. I love the piece, but the customer service was a bit of a nightmare.

Here it is at the end of the hallway. Now we need to add a gallery wall above with pictures of our families. The books and other touches are a work in progress.

New Summer Dress

2011-12-19T11:04:00.000-08:00

I purchased a new dress this weekend through Hautelook’s Sunday night sale. It’s one of my favorite brands! And of course it was over 80% off, can’t beat that!

I can’t wait to get it! And then of course I’ll need to wait for it to be warmer too.

Do you shop at Hautelook?

Ashley Greene's Style

2011-12-19T07:23:00.000-08:00

I just love being able to find tons of outfit inspiration on Pinterest!

One of my latest pinning sessions was of Ashley Greene. I even used the mustard cardigan outfit as my inspiration for a casual weekend look this past Saturday.

Whose style are you loving lately?

Digraphs, Narrative Writing, & Friendly Letter Opinions

2011-12-13T13:31:00.000-08:00

I'm looking for your best ideas!! I'm teaching some mini lessons for observation and just wondered if any of you have fabulous ideas :)

First up, digraphs!

Here's a cute sorting lesson I found from Mrs. Carroll at The First Grade Parade. I thought reviewing the sounds each make and sorting would be simple. Too simple?

I also love the idea of making these /th/ thumbs!

Maybe as a reward if there's time after sorting?

Next - Writing
Any great ideas for helping with friendly letters?

Or personal narratives?

I just finished the Step Up to Writing Training, but feel that that might be a little too much for the short time frame.

So what do all of you fabulous teachers think? Helpful hints? Surefire lessons that are just amazing? I've got some ideas, but as you know there are never enough! :)

Toms Flats

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Toms Introduces Cute Ballet Flats For Spring 2012 and I can't wait!!

Yummy New Recipes

2011-12-12T12:07:00.000-08:00

I've been loving all the fun new recipes I've been seeing on Pinterest lately. Here are some I can't wait to try...and one I did try this weekend!

Sugar Crusted Vanilla French Toast

Summer Corn, Potato, Bacon Chowder

Cinnamon Sugar Marshmallow Crescent Rolls

Loaded Mashed Potatoes Bake

White Queso Dip

Bite Size Smores

Jamie Oliver's Farfalle Carbonara

We actually made this dish last night. It was so yummy! Although, I wanted my sauce to be a little creamer, any helpful suggestions for that?

What yummy dishes have you been making lately?

Disneyland

2011-12-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

This Saturday my family, along with my boyfriend, went to Disneyland. We had a lot of fun, despite the freezing cold, well cold for SoCal anyway :)

Since we had free tickets and go often we were only there for the afternoon.

Here we are after a delicious lunch at the Blue Bayou. Have you ever eaten there? It's the restaurant inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.

We had put up our Christmas tree this week too, so we picked up this cute ornament for it. Perfect for Kenny since it's the little Pixar lamp and he's an animator.

And of course the picture in front of the castle. I have a picture with my family too, but it's not on my camera, so I'll have to add it later. Just after our picture was taken we noticed a couple next to us getting their picture taken and then he got down on one knee and proposed! It was cute.

It was a fun little trip. We rode The Haunted Mansion, Star Tours, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and had lunch. Can't wait to go back :)

I'm Spending the Day Here...

2011-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

Source: Uploaded by user via MJ on Pinterest

Friday Night Lights

2011-12-02T12:46:00.000-08:00

If you're like me you may have seen a few minutes of this show here and there, but then heard lots of bloggers lately talking about watching it on Netflix. Well, I finally started watching it with my boyfriend over Thanksgiving weekend. I love it!!

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The drama, the football, the adorable players, what's not to like!? Have you watched it? Definitely get it on Netflix if you haven't. They have it under the watch now version, so you can instantly watch all 76 episodes. We're at about episode 20...almost there! :)

Rachel Bilson's ShoeMint

2011-11-23T15:42:00.000-08:00

Have you heard?! Rachel Bilson is designing shoes! I can't wait to see the first collection. Have you signed up for her site yet? You can click on over to Shoe Mint to get on the list. Happy Shopping!

Just remember...

2011-11-21T18:35:00.000-08:00

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We've all been there. A bad day. A hard day. A day when you know that tomorrow will be challenging too. Just remember...

Chanel

2011-11-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

I have a Chanel themed event to go to this weekend...can't wait!! Here's a little inspiration I found. I'll be shopping tomorrow :) Do you know of any great Chanel inspired pieces out there right now?

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In your heart...

2011-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Source: weheartit.com via MJ on Pinterest

It's a hard thing to do, isn't it? Having someone that you truly have loved to have as a friend, but they have changed and are no longer a true friend or even really someone that you may feel like you know at all.

I feel like we've all been there. A great friend, even someone you may consider a best friend or sister, has changed and strayed completely from who you used to know. There's nothing wrong with changing and growing, but sometimes that means you've grown and changed in a way which means you are no longer in each others lives.

Even when you think of that person now, there are times you want to reach out, but is it something you should do? Or just remember the times you shared, the laughter at all hours of the night, the fun you had? It's hard to let go of some friends, but keeping the memories and hoping they're well is all there is to do now...

Cheese & Bacon Potato Skins

2011-11-13T15:18:00.000-08:00

Source: allrecipes.com via MJ on Pinterest

Cheese & Bacon Potato Skins

These are so easy to make! Definitely try them for the next football game or tailgate. I whipped them up this weekend while watching football. So delish!!

Makes 8 pieces

1 potato

shredded cheddar cheese

3 slices of bacon

1 T melted butter

salt & pepper

Bake the potato at 400 for 40 minutes.

Cook 3 pieces of bacon til crispy.

Cut the potato into 1/2 inch slices, approximately 8 total.

Drizzle on melted butter to each piece.

Salt & pepper to taste.

Top with cheese and bacon pieces.

Bake for 10 minutes on 400 or until cheese is melted.

Let me know if you try these.

Enjoy!

Making Memories

2011-11-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

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Have you ever done this? Looked back and found that the amazing time you were having was creating amazing memories which will last a lifetime? Makes me think of crazy times at San Diego State University and Kappa Delta...

Go Chargers!

2011-11-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

I love football!

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I love the San Diego Chargers!

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It can be hard to be a fan when your team isn't doing so well, but I found a little online inspiration to keep that Bolt Up Spirit alive!!

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And I'm missing my favorite player too...Sproles!

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Although there have been some amazing new and veteran players too - Hello Brown!!

Do you follow football? Where do you get those cute football fashions?

A Must Watch for Teachers...

2011-11-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Where do we go from here?

Kitchen Love

2011-11-09T15:42:00.000-08:00

Today I'm loving my new purchases! I had a generous gift from the parents during teacher appreciation week last spring, along with Veteran's Day sales and a coupon code these two goodies are shipping to me for just under $20!! I can't wait to get them!

I've wanted a food processor for awhile now, so I'm excited to find all the fun ways to put it to use.

And as for this waffle iron...I'm pretty sure it makes me an old lady to be buying appliances instead of a new pair of heels :) But I can't wait to get it either! I'm thinking waffles with ice cream!!

Here are some goodies I plan on making soon in the kitchen. Hopefully I'll be using my fun new kitchen toys to make them...

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What are you loving?

Link up with the sweetest blogger ever, Jamie and her What I'm Loving Wednesday.

Wish I was here...

2011-11-02T06:46:00.001-07:00

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Apples & Pumpkins

2011-11-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

We went apple picking this fall. It was so much fun, but as you can see it wasn't exactly fall weather here in Southern California :)

With our little bag to fill...

Me and my man

View of the valley

Tiny little apples!

Long rows to wander down

Artsy shot, haha!

Trying to find apples on all these trees

Afterwards we went to lunch, then to a nearby pumpkin patch.

My boyfriend and his mom.

The two of us with the pumpkins

Definitely a fun autumn day!

We left with some apple pie and enjoyed it with ice cream the next day for breakfast :)

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

We dressed up like ninjas!

Party People

Delish Jello shots with sour gummy worms

The Girls

Our jack-o-lanterns

Holly Bloggy Christmas

2011-10-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Have you signed up yet?!

I can't wait to start shopping for my holiday bloggy buddy :)

Halloween Costume Help

2011-10-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

Halloween is on Monday. That means I'll be teaching that day. Which means I need a costume! Help!! I need a cute, affordable, comfortable costume to wear at school with my K-3rd students.

I found this costume on pinterest...

Source: None via MJ on Pinterest

And although not school appropriate, so cute!! I call dibs on rock :)

And this is just a hilarious couples costume.

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Too bad Kenny isn't a blond or this would work perfectly. We're thinking we might do Maryanne and Gilligan. But we'll see...

What are you going to be for Halloween?

Be sure to check out every one's pins at The Vintage Apple!

Kappa Delta Founder's Day Brunch

2011-10-26T17:34:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday was my sorority's Founder's Day. It was our 114th anniversary! I hosted a brunch for all sorority alumnae in the area. It was so much fun!

Were you in a sorority? And do you still go to events?

Kickball - Awards - Giveaways

2011-10-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

{Kickball}

This past weekend my kickball team was invited to play in the national championship games in Las Vegas! It was so much fun to go and play, even though we didn't win, not even close! Here are a couple of fun photos from our weekend...

{Blog Awards}

Jordan from Life is Better Messy Anyway gave me the Versatile Blogger award...

She's a fabulous 5th grade teacher, definitely check out her blog!

Courtney from Courtney's Organized Chaos gave me the I Dig Your Blog award...

She's the sweetest and has great posts about fashion and style!

Thanks girlies!!

{Giveaways}

I won this great giveaway from Ms. T at The First Grade Jungle. I've ordered the Biscuit books for my little readers and can't wait to start working with them!

Go on over to her blog for some great teaching ideas, especially for centers!!

I also won this book from Mrs. King at Queen of the First Grade Jungle.

I can't wait to get it and share it with my little ones!

What are you loving?

Link up with the sweetest blogger ever, Jamie and her What I'm Loving Wednesday.

Freebie

2011-10-03T20:58:00.000-07:00

Click on over for a great freebie!!

A great spider unit from Teaching in First!! Who doesn't love a freebie :)

Kate Middleton's Style

2011-09-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

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Science Week - Favorite Science Books

2011-09-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

It's science week!!

Here are my favorite books to teach science...

I love these because my students have always loved the "real" stories they include. They are great resources to connect the textbook to "real life". Great for text on the student's grade level too.

I think picture books are great to give students access to science curriculum at their own level, just so it makes sense.

What books do you use to teach science?

Link up here!

Teacher Tuesday - ELA Goodies

2011-09-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

Everyday at work I find out I have new job responsibilities. It's exciting to be teaching so many different grades and groups of students, but it can be a little overwhelming as it first begins.

To help me plan I'm completely addicted to pinterest! Who isn't right?! Well here's some
of my favorite things from the past week or so to help inspire you too!

Here is a site that has a ton of free printables!! Definitely check it out for ABCs, shapes, numbers, and so much more!

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This is an adorable little sign I printed out to put near my library. Just a reminder of the things you can do with a book! :)

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I love this anchor chart! I'll definitely be creating one for my students too.

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Pinterest

I think this phonics work poem will be great for Halloween! I plan on using it with all of my

K-3 reading groups and creating a class book.

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I love this kid friendly version of schema. I think it helps student understand the concept.

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Do you have fun teacher things to share this Teacher Tuesday? Remember it can be anything teacher related! Just make sure to grab the button.

If you want to link-up, please grab the code for the logo here and then come back to link your blog.

Kate Beckinsale

2011-09-18T19:00:00.001-07:00

I've loved Kate Beckinsale since seeing her in Serendipity...still love that movie...le sigh.

She's a classic beauty and has a classic style that I just love!!

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Teacher Goodies

2011-09-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

I'm getting my posts ready for Science Week! Will you be participating? I can't wait to see what great ideas everyone has to share...

And of course I'm getting ready for Teacher Tuesday too! What will you share this week?

Have you seen this blog, Kreative in Kinder? She's giving away kinder units!! All you have to do is follow her blog, her teacher store, blog about it, and leave a comment! Hope you "enter" and get a great unit for class too!

Scholastic's Teacher Express shop is having their $1 days sale!! They have almost 900 different items for $1! They are downloadable pdf books. And if you enter 10thanks as a coupon code you'll get $10 off!! Go now!! The deal ends on Tuesday.

Teacher Tuesday - My Classroom

2011-09-12T17:47:00.000-07:00

I've been setting up my classroom!! I actually share the space with another reading teacher who is part time. There is a 3rd teacher still needing to be hired... I am the full time reading teacher and I coordinate the three of us with our groups. We teach K-3 and I can't wait to get all of the initial assessments completed so we can start working with the students!!

Here are some pictures of my classroom. These are from when I first walked in to now, although there are a lot of things that still need to be added, I'm so happy with the progress I've made!!

The view from my desk...

The view of my desk and window...

Looking towards the door and onto the other side of the classroom.

The other side of the classroom

Making some progress...

Two word walls hung up and more bulletin boards are decorated!!

The view of my reading table.

Looking at my desk with more organization and decoration.

Supplies and some color words.

A peek into one of the cabinets. Lots of phonics games and books on tape.

I'll be sharing more of my classroom as it continues to get organized. There is so much more to do!!

Do you have fun teacher things to share this Teacher Tuesday?

If you want to link-up, please grab the code for the logo here and then come back to link your blog.

Leighton Meester

2011-09-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

I love her style, whether in her real life or as the fabulous Blair on Gossip Girl or the adorable country singer in Country Strong...

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Teacher Tuesday - Word Work

2011-09-05T21:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend I spent a lot of free time on teaching blogs and on pinterest. I found so many amazing ideas for my new students!! I stated my new job as a reading specialist. It will be for K-3 so I have a lot of different ideas and levels to cover. Here are a few sight word and reading ideas for your classroom too...

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Do you have fun teacher things to share this Teacher Tuesday?

If you want to link-up, please grab the code for the logo here and then come back to link your blog.

New Recipes

2011-08-31T09:30:00.000-07:00

I've been pinning so many great looking dishes lately on Pinterest. This week I finally started to whip some up! So far I've made this delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

And this easy stuffed shells recipe, although I went without the pesto, still yummy!

This week I'll also be making calzones, fried ravioli, and a taco ring! Can't wait to share how those turn out :)

Are you pinning yet? You must! Click here to follow my boards.

What have you been pinning lately?

Be sure to check out every one's pins at The Vintage Apple!

That's what I'm loving this Wednesday...What about you?

Link up with the sweetest blogger ever, Jamie and her What I'm Loving Wednesday.

Teacher Tuesday

2011-08-30T10:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some fabulous ideas I've found through teacher blogs and pinterest this week!

Good Writers Brainstorm
What a great way to start the school year! Perfect for adding to and reflecting on throughout the year.

Source: mrswilliamsonskinders.blogspot.com via MJ on Pinterest

Math Notebook
If you click the picture it'll take you to the blog where a fabulous teacher is sharing her notebooks. They are so informative and interactive!! I can't wait to do these with my students one day...

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Oreo Cookie Moon Phases
I've used this with my 3rd graders before, but I love this visual!! It definitely engaged them to have cookies to learn with!!

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So Much Glitter!
Have you all seen this commercial!? I think it's exactly how excited teachers get at the start of a school year :)

Do you have fun teacher things to share this Teacher Tuesday?
If you want to link-up, please grab the code for the logo here and then come back to link your blog.

Bling Diva Designs

2011-08-26T13:01:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this amazing blinged out mixer!?!

My fabulous friend and owner of Bling Diva Designs, Melissa, created it!! You can read more about it here. And be sure to check out all the other fabulous blingy designs she has created too, like amazing wedding cake toppers!

Teacher Week - Free for All Friday

2011-08-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm linking up with other amazing teachers for Teacher Week!! Click on over to Blog Hoppin' to check out all the teacher blogs :)

Today's the last day of the Teacher Week link-up. We're sharing a freebie!! Here's a link to two great freebies I'm sharing...

Totally Terrific Transitions
A bookmark designed for helping students with writing. A fabulous co-worker of mine in 3rd created this great resource. My students loved it and would pull it out all the time during writing to utilize it. We also kept a running record of transitions we found while reading.

Pizza Vocabulary
This is another adapted vocabulary practice. It can be used along with stories, vocabulary of the week, math terms, anything! Just have students fill out each section. I have also saved these in a student folder so they can refer to them throughout the school year.

Teacher Week - Three for Thursday

2011-08-25T00:00:00.001-07:00

I'm linking up with other amazing teachers for Teacher Week!! Click on over to Blog Hoppin' to check out all the teacher blogs :)

Today we're sharing 3 of our favorites

Favorite Font

Favorite Blog

Favorite Online Resource

Shoes! Shopping Obsession!!

2011-08-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

I have been loving shoes!! Heels, boots, wedges, even flats!!
After all this blog is called teaching in heels for a reason...

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What have you been pinning lately?

Be sure to check out every one's pins at The Vintage Apple!

That's what I'm loving this Wednesday...What about you?

Link up with the sweetest blogger ever, Jamie and her What I'm Loving Wednesday.

Teacher Week - Where It All Goes Down

2011-08-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm linking up with other amazing teachers for Teacher Week!! Click on over to Blog Hoppin' to check out all the teacher blogs :)

Today we're showing off our classrooms!

Here are some pictures from my 5th grade classroom. I haven't been into my reading classroom yet this school year, so I'll share those as soon as I can! :)

Make sure you click over to Blog Hoppin' to see all the classroom pictures!!

Life has me thinking...

2011-08-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

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Teacher Tuesday

2011-08-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Since it's the start of the school year I'm sharing advice for new teachers...

{1}
Ask for help!!

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It is easy to get overwhelmed with everything there is to do. Ask other teachers in your grade level for their ideas and suggestions. Ask your friends and family to help out with setting up your class or easy projects. There's a lot to do and it takes a lot of time to get it done, so keep your sanity and get help!!

{2}
Take time for you...

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It is easy to get caught up in school things every second of every day. Even the teacher needs a night off! Unplug, unwind and just recharge! Remember to take a little time each week just for you...

{3}
Time Management

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I always wanted things to be perfect (let's be honest, I still do!!), but remember that sometimes it's ok just to let the "wrong" font be on the project, or not have the perfect border on the bulletin board. The time you save on making things just perfect will go a long way in keeping time dedicated to lesson planning for the students.

{4}
Utilize Teacher Blogs!!

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There are so many amazing teacher blogs out there with great resources for you to use!! Click over to my page for a list to start from... Many teachers share free downloads of games, worksheets and so much more. Google before you create from scratch!!

If you want to link-up, please grab the code for the logo here and then come back to link your blog.

I'm also linking up with other amazing teachers for Teacher Week!! Click on over to Blog Hoppin' to check out all the teacher blogs :)

Teacher Week - Meet the Teacher Monday

2011-08-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm linking up with other amazing teachers for Teacher Week!! Click on over to Blog Hoppin' to check out all the teacher blogs :)

I've done other meet the teacher posts before, here is one, but I thought I'd do this fun little survey I saw at Fabulous in First as my get to know you in pictures...

If you're not a teacher, you can still do the survey, just adapt the teacher parts to your profession :)

I'm MJ from Teaching in Heels and I've taught 5th, 3rd, and 2nd. This year I'll be a reading teacher for K-5th.

Favorite Color

Favorite T.V. Shows

Favorite Stores

Yum Yum

Favorite Blogs

Favorite Websites

Favorite Teacher Tools

Now go link up too!! :)

Reading is Cool

2011-08-20T15:40:00.001-07:00

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I got the job!! I'll be a reading specialist at a K-5th school for the 2011-2012 school year!! I'm excited and can't wait to start training, planning, and teaching!!

My Birthday!

2011-08-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

I posted before about the plans for my birthday, but here are the pictures from the weekend!

Emily came up and we spent the day shopping! We had a delish lunch at Mexicali and even got a free round of margaritas since it was my birthday! :)

We all headed out to Swill Automatic, which is a wine bar that you use prepaid cards to get tasters from the machines of wine...

Here's Kenny and one of the machines...

It was a lot of fun! The waiter brought us extra tasters and drinks too!

Me and my lil sis Lindsay

Me and my friend Melissa, she's pregnant and just the cutest momma-to-be!

Blowing out the candles on the most delicious chocolate dessert. Kenny was sweet and brought candles to the restaurant to surprise me with...awwww!

The next day we headed out to Palm Spring... The hotel we had picked out, that looked amazing in photos, was horrid!! The place was simply run-down. There were doors without numbers and instead the room numbers written straight onto the wall. The elevator was a scary disaster, so we took the stairs to find doors without handles! The pool was nice enough, but the water was dirty!! And they ran out of towels. Needless to say we will not be staying there again...

Although we did go out to a delicious dinner!! Aldente Pasta was the perfect birthday indulgence.

Kenny sitting outside just as cute as ever...

We ordered wine, of course, and spumoni! I love that ice cream...

Can you tell it's still so hot, even at night? My cheeks were red!!

The next day we packed up, checked out, and headed to a hotel we had stayed at before. We enjoyed drinks and lunch at the pool. It was much nicer, much cleaner. Lesson learned, go with what you know!! :)

Over-all I had a fabulous birthday filled with family, friends, and lots of fun!! Can't wait to do it all again next year :)

Interview Options

2011-08-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

I'm in search of a classic, yet cute and creative, interview outfit. This will be for an interview for teaching elementary school, so nothing too much.

What do you all think? What do you suggest for a teaching interview?

I love the stripes with the blazer...

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Or maybe the stripes on the outside and the pop of color...

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I like this look, but maybe too casual...I would wear it with flats of course.

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This is a cute, classic look. Although I don't think I could do a scarf to an interview. And definitely not jeans!

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This outfit is so me, but again, not with jeans.

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I think this look is cute, but not sure I have everything to recreate it...

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A classic dress? Although I'm not sure I should do high heels and with flats I'd just look too short...

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And again, stripes with a blazer and color! Too bad the pink blazer I ordered won't be delivered in time...

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Help! Which outfit do you think I should choose? A combination of any of them? Something else completely? A dress? Pants? Flats? Heels?

Teacher Tuesday

2011-08-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the teachers who linked up last week for my first Teacher Tuesday! I love finding new teacher blogs to follow :)

Me & My Gang Blog Author

This past week I joined the blog, Me and My Gang. I'll be an author on the 3rd grade lounge site! I can't wait to start posting some fun ideas. Click on over and check it out! If you're interested in writing for their blog, grades K-3, just send them an e-mail.

Teacher Blogs
I added a new page at the top of my blog called Teacher Blogs. I have put the buttons for the teacher blogs I read. If you have a button that wasn't included, just grab mine, leave me a comment and I'll be more than happy to grab yours and add it to the page.

Welcome Bulletin Boards
As the school year starts I have been finding great pictures of classrooms. Here are some of my favorite welcome boards...

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If you want to link-up, please grab the code here and then come back to link your blog.

Teacher Blogs

2011-08-14T20:32:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love teacher blogs!?! I have been loving finding new teacher blogs lately. Here are a few great new blogs and their adorable downloads too!

The First Grade Jungle

Ms. T has shared wonderful pictures of her classroom, so inspiring! She posts great sheets and lessons that all work together! Check her out...

2nd Grade Shenanigans

This fabulous 2nd grade teacher created a set of adorable notebook covers for the teacher. Every teacher knows if it's cute, it just makes you smile! :)

Dots-n-Spots

Becky at Dots-n-Spots is a 4th grade teacher who recently posted this adorable time capsule sheet. I used a similar sheet in my 5th grade class. They filled it out on the first day of school and then got to open it back up at the end of the school year. Each student also included a piece of yarn to measure how tall they were on the first day. They were so surprised at how much they had grown!! Click on over and look around...

If you notice, these blogs are for all different grade levels, but each blogger shares amazing lessons and creative projects which can easily be adapted to almost any grade level.

What teacher blogs are you loving lately?

Mila Kunis' Style

2011-08-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

It seems like Mila is everywhere these days and I'm loving her style!!

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Happy Birthday to Me!!

2011-08-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

I was literally a little kid this morning around 4am. I was too excited to sleep!! It's my birthday and I can't wait to celebrate :)

Last night Kenny and I went to dinner with my parents to celebrate. They bought me a nook for my birthday! I can't wait to get it all set up.

This lovely lady, Em, my college friend and sorority sister, is coming up to spend the day.

We'll be shopping, getting mani/pedis and going to lunch. So fun...

Then tonight I'll be heading out with Kenny and friends to a wine bar.

From my birthday last year in Las Vegas!!

And thank you to all of you who helped with the birthday outfit decisions. I think I'm going with a sequin skirt!

This weekend Kenny and I are continuing the celebration with some relaxing and hot fun in Palm Springs!

It should be so much fun. We're staying at this gorgeous hotel...

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!!

Birthday Outfit - Opinions Needed

2011-08-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

This Friday is my birthday (yay!) and I haven't decided what to wear... I'm going out with friends to a wine bar. It's probably pretty casual, but since it's my birthday I can always dress it up a little! Now, I need your help, what dress/outfit do you think I should go for?

Cute casual dress?

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A sparkly dress?

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Just a sequin skirt? Casual top?

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A pop of color? Classic cocktail dress?

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Super girlie and colorful dress?

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Or just casual?

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A cute top and a skirt or shorts with heels?

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Help me out lovlies!! Which look should I go for?

Birthdays, Teaching, Fashion & Football

2011-08-10T12:55:00.000-07:00

{1}

It's my birthday week!!

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Do you all do that? Celebrate the whole week? Well, as a summer birthday girl I can assure you it happens whether you plan on it or not! There are so many events - weddings, baby showers, vacations - that people often are out of town when you're having a get together. This means they want to make it up to you - drinks, dinners - fine by me :) My birthday is on Friday and we're going to a wine bar. I can't wait!!

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Teacher Tuesday

I started a link-up for all the great teacher resources you can find out there from blogs and pinterest, anywhere! I had some fabulous ladies link-up. I'll be doing it each week, so grab
the button, get that post ready, and link-up!

And, speaking of teaching, do you follow Abby over at The Inspired Apple? Along with another teacher blogger they are planning a teacher blogger conference!! Check it out!!

{3}
Fall Fashions

Even though it is still in the 100s almost daily and I'll be in Palm Springs soon where it should be 109!! I'm still daydreaming of autumn clothes...

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Are you pinning yet? You must! Click here to follow my boards.

What have you been pinning lately?

Be sure to check out every one's pins at The Vintage Apple!

{4}

Football - Go Chargers!!

To go along with wanting it to be cooler weather, I'm also wanting football season to start up!! I'm a huge Chargers fan and can't wait for their first preseason game tomorrow!!

I've been in love with the Chargers for only a short time, as opposed to a life-long fan since birth or anything. I would root for them when I was in college in San Diego, but more recently, within the past 3 years, have I really followed them. My boyfriend and I even had season tickets last year!!

Who's your team?

That's what I'm loving this Wednesday...What about you?

Link up with the sweetest blogger ever, Jamie and her What I'm Loving Wednesday.

Teacher Tuesday

2011-08-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

As a teacher I'm always looking online for new ideas and exciting lessons to incorporate into my classroom. I thought it would be fun to create a link-up to share the great ideas we find from all the amazing bloggers out there!

Here's the first Teacher Tuesday!! Just grab the button up above, post it on your blog, then share anything teacher related. It can be a lesson, a bulletin board picture, classroom management ideas, fun teacher outfits, a favorite teaching inspired website, anything!! Then come back here and link it up!!

As you are setting up your classroom this year, make sure you make these New Student bags. Just place an extra of everything a student needs when entering your class. Then you'll be set for when that surprise new student shows up!

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I've used this I am poem during the first week of school before. I love it as a way to get to know the students. And you can create one as an example, a great way for them to get to know you too.

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Here's one of my favorite things...Thinking Maps!! If you haven't been trained in Thinking Maps, get your school to send you!! They are amazing tools for students to use as a comprehension tool.

These are the most simple, just a definition map for each student. In the center is a picture of the student, then around that they fill it in with their likes/dislikes, favorites, etc. I made them 8x8" so I could take them and put them right into a scrapbook, preserving memories for the teacher too!

Now it's your turn!! Grab the button, post some teacher tips, then come back and link up!! Can't wait to see all of the creative ideas you all have!!

The Shine Project - Giveaway Winner

2011-08-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all of you lovely bloggers who entered to win a necklace and shirt from The Shine Project.

Congratulations to...Jesslyn Amber!

Missoni for Target

2011-08-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for the Missoni line to launch at Target on September 13th!!

Although I'm hoping I'll have better luck with this line, after the Calypso St. Barth line was so disappointing.

Will you shop the affordable Missoni line?

Free Teacher Resources

2011-08-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

I saw this posted on facebook and was a little curious, so I clicked over and it was true, Free Teacher Resources!! For grades 3rd through 5th, although I'm sure some can be adapted for older or younger.

Click here to get started. There's a list of 15 different sites with free downloads today only! And great sites to bookmark for future visits too :)

And don't forget today's the last day to enter The Shine Project Giveaway!!