Saluda trip

Saturday was an adventure. Ben and I took Troy and the kids to the Saluda river. There is a little spot we go to and play in the water. By we I mean Ben and the kids. I sit and watch them play. I don't like ice cold water that I can't see through. But anyway, we had a blast. We met Troy's parents and brothers and sisters up there as well.
Ben, Troy, Troy's dad and brothers decided to build a dam to make a little pool for the kids to play in. While in the middle of their building we got rained on twice, unexpectedly. Needless to say all of our food and towels got wet during the downpours and Kelly and I stood under a rock to keep from getting soaked. By the time the second rain was finished, so was I and we packed up and headed back out to the car. Even though it rained and I was wet and cold, we had a great time and made great memories.

 Ben and Z walking in the water.

 The kids in the water.

The rock we stood under when it rained, and yes we stayed fairly dry.

Wow, it is hot!

So I took my kids to the park today for a play date. It is so hot in South Carolina. We thought if we got there early this morning that we could beat the heat. NOT! We only stayed for about an hour and a half and we had to get out. After only about 30 minutes Z was already just pouring sweat(he gets that from his Papa). Papa is what he calls his dad for those of you who think I meant his grandfather. So, here they are from the park today.

Working Away!

Well, with school just a few weeks away(for me) I have begun the journey in my classroom. I went for a couple of hours last week. I took my two helpers so I didn't get a lot done, but it was a start. I took them back again today and managed to get my tables set up, but that seems to be all I can do with them there. So, hopefully I can get up there one evening this week and get some stuff done with out them. On another note, I went to the guided math workshop yesterday. It wasn't quite what I expected, but I made it through. I am still planning on implementing it in the fall, after we get the basics under our belts.

What a week!

So, this week has been very busy. On Sunday, Evans Training Center had its third graduation. Troy is planning on staying for Servant Leadership Training (SLT) which is another year long commitment. That in itself is amazing, but then Ben and I got to celebrate our 8 year anniversary. I have the most incredible husband in the world. Ben and I got married 8 years ago yesterday. It was the most incredible day, then we moved to Florida to be a part of an incredible ministry. I will always cherish those early years together, but I am so looking forward to the many many years we have in front of us.

Beyond the Blackboard

Sunday night, my mother in law had a sleepover for the girls. We had the cousins over and had fun afternoon on the waterslide and then everyone left except for the little girls and of course my little boy because my husband had to get up and go to work Monday morning. So, after everyone left and we had cleaned up a little bit, my mother in law wanted me to watch a movie she recorded on direct tv. (a luxury I don't have at home, so I am glad she does it for me :).) So, i sat down and watched Beyond the Blackboard. This is based on the true story of a young teacher thrown into what seems like an impossible situation. She begins her teaching career in a classroom at a homeless shelter. With students ranging from first grade to sixth grade. She has no desks, texts, or supplies. And she does the best she can until she finds someone who will listen and help. This is  a heartbreaking/heartwarming story! I recommend anyone who has not seen it, find it and watch it.


Here is a link to the trailor:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNpaHnTt4eA&noredirect=1

Guided Math

A new adventure I am going to try this year is guided math. I am really excited about this! I haven't ever tried anything like this in a math setting before. From what I gather it is very similar to guided reading, but maybe with fewer groups. On July 23, I am attending a workshop with Laney Sammons the auther of Guided Math. She has been in communication with one of our teachers for a few months now. I am really excited about the opportunity to meet her and get her expertise on the concept.

I will let you know how it goes.

here are a couple of links to look at
http://myteachingspirit.blogspot.com/p/guided-math.html
http://www.kindergartenworks.com/search/label/Guided%20Math