Blood, Sweat and Tears

This past month has been surreal. The school year flew by and on May 20, 2013, our state was hit with yet another big blow. I live about 20 miles northwest of Moore. I haven't been down to the site of the tornadoes, but I'm sure like you, my tv screen has been full of the latest photos, heroic stories and pleas for lost pets to be reunited with their owners. My husband grew up in Moore, and actually went to Plaza Towers Elementary. His childhood home was lost in the tornado. This disaster has touched lives all over the world. I am amazed at the kind words and actions people have spilled across the country in the last week and a half.
I'm sure some of you know that last night, Blake Shelton hosted a benefit concert in downtown OKC. The concert featured a lot of great artists. There was not a dry eye in the house (or in any Oklahoma living rooms) that night. Watching Miranda Lambert break down during her performance really made it REAL that these people still care about their home state despite the fame and glory.
The song that touched me most, harmonized with the backdrop of video of the tornado ravaged town, was Blake Shelton and Usher. Who knew how awesome they sounded together! If you did not watch the concert last night, please view the video below.


The same week we watched this tornado destory Moore live on tv, I also said goodbye to my little first graders. On Thursday, I sent them on their way, hoping they will spread their wings and flutter into second grade with confidence and motivation. I teach in a difficult school where students struggle with difficult home lives. So with mixed emotions, I told them goodbye and to have a great summer. I also said goodbye to my school that I have taught at for the last 9 years. It was time for a change. I'm taking some time off to spend with my daughter. I will be tutoring and volunteering a lot AND will be working on lots of great Common Core based products to add to my Teachers Pay Teachers store. I hope everyone has a great end to the school year and has a wonderful summer!

Here is the latest products I am working on for my store. If you haven't checked out my other class book template packs, I encourage you to do so! My kiddos love creating these books for our classroom library. They also make a great send-off gift at the end of the year. 

 

You can visit my store HERE .