Road Trippin’: Song of the Day

Posted on July 8, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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New friends that make you laugh out loud? Sign me up! I am totally in love with this week – new friends, mini-road trip, happy hour, and massage. Leisure Stress be damned!

Song notes:

1. Son Volt Trace = one of the best road trip albums ever made. Sing-a-long Central!

2. Too many great songs to choose from, but this is a particular favorite. I believe their only commercial radio “hit”.

3. If you’ve never heard this album or it’s been a while, seriously stop what you are doing and go listen. Brilliant.

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What are your go-to records for the open road?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

Saturday Senses

Posted on July 2, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

A way to capture the spirit of each week…

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tasting :: homemade bbq pulled pork sandwiches and cherries from the farmer’s market

hearing :: classic rock like styx, stevie nicks, and tom petty and conversations with old men in the weight room

smelling :: giant thunderstormy raindrops on pavement

seeing :: my bff from kindergarten and meeting her 12-year-old daughter for the first time

feeling :: tired. dare i say it? i think i may be doing too much. i may have to run a little fun interference on myself.

wishing/hoping :: for everyone to have a safe 4th of july weekend and very happy birthdays to my favorite 4th of july babies: my mom, v3 and steph!

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day: Roller Disco and Pigtails

Posted on July 1, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Reunited and it feels so good. Been seeing lots of friends as of late, so feel glad you weren’t given the Peaches and Herb treatment this week.

Song notes:

1. I know everyone knows this song now, but I knew it in 2nd grade.

2. My bestie from childhood had this on vinyl and we played it on her yellow Holly Hobbie record player in the garage while we tried out our roller disco moves on the slippery garage floor.

3. Memories…. we had lunch yesterday, so I’ve got elementary school on the brain.

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What songs did you grow up with that bring you back?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

Summer of Intentionality Progress Report: To Read

Posted on June 29, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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I’m already a huge reader during the school year, so when summer break comes along my reading habit gets kicked into overdrive. I’ve heard rumors that one’s ability to read decreases dramatically when one has a little one roaming their home, so I better enjoy my last pre-kid summer of reading.

To Read: The list:

Status update: All the books on my list have been purchased, checked out and/or borrowed. They’re all here just waiting to be read.

So what have I actually been reading?

Not what’s on my list, of course! I’m wacky that way, I guess. Plus, I have so many books to read because I’m trying to win an iPad2.

The REAL reading list {for now}:

Vegan with a Vengeance by Isa Chandra Moskowitz – full of ideas for my dairy-free living.

I finished BossyPants by Tina Fey in about 2 days. I definitely recommend it, but I have to say I didn’t find it to be side-splittingly funny like people made it out to be. I found her to be smart more than funny and I’ve decided we’d be great friends should we ever meet. So if you’ve got an in with Liz Lemon, let me know.

Stories I Only Tell My Friends by Rob Lowe. Yes, West Wing/Hotel New Hampshire Rob Lowe. Admittedly, I got this book from the library after seeing him speak about it on Oprah. He’s still so handsome (sparkly really, in a pretty like a girl way) that I desperately wanted to know his beauty secrets. Hence, I’m reading the book. Oh yeah, and he hung out with all the actors of my generation and I probably wouldn’t mind hearing gossip about them too.

I’m only part of the way through, so I’ll have to get back to you on the beauty secrets and the celebrity gossip. Warning: If you decide to read it, either read the first chapter with a large grain of salt or skip it. It kind of sounds like a Sam Seaborne speech: earnest, longing, wistful.

The husband and I have been pecking away at What to Expect The First Year and having super funny conversations about the details of our impending parenthood.

“T” is For Trespass – don’t hate, friends. I’ve read almost all of these alphabet books. It’s been at least a decade since I’ve read one and I need a mystery for my Summer Reading Bingo card, so there you have it.

What are you reading this summer? Not your what would make you sound smart or be cool, but your real reading list?

Summer of Intentionality Progress Report: To Do

Posted on June 28, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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Summer of Intentionality 2011 is off to a great start! I’ve been ticking items of my three lists and am happy to report progress is being made on all. So much so, it’s been difficult to find time to write posts and keep up with reading my favorites.

Over all I’m happy with feeling productive and remembering that putting out effort to make things happen a) doesn’t take that much effort and b) can be loads of fun. This has come as a huge relief to me because I would hate to feel like my summer has been “wasted” on frivolous stuff. At least this summer my frivolity is planned frivolity, dammit.

{Ed. note – please click the links – there is good stuff hidden there. Such good stuff, you too, can fall down the internet rabbit hole. I’ll see you at the bottom!]

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To Do: The whole list

Status update:

Dinner with Vanessa and Jeannie in Oakland at Burma Superstar – even included a ride on the back of JP’s new scooter!

Farmer’s market last Sunday under the freeway and Wednesday’s at Chavez Park

Many fruits and veggies consumed since the beginning of the summer.

Swimming in a pool – check

Yoga class with Michelle, Madeleine and Bob all of whom I love and highly recommend.

What have I learned about myself from my To Do list?

Saying yes to fun is, not surprisingly, more fun than saying no. You can, in fact, do more than one fun thing in a day and it can be exponentially more fun. Most of you are probably shaking your head by now.

What can I say? I think I may be lazier than the average bear. The result of too many restorative yoga classes? In any case, more fun equals more fun!

Saying yes is also really tiring for those of us who don’t drink coffee or sleep well. Grandma may just need to take more naps — why didn’t naps make this list???

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What about you? How is your summer going?

Saturday Senses

Posted on June 25, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

A way to capture the spirit of each week…

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tasting :: pork banh mi sandwiches and thai iced tea

hearing :: the squeal of bart tracks under the bay. can’t they get a little wd-40 action going on in there?

smelling :: fog!

seeing :: dinosaur fossils, penguins, stars and rain forest plants

feeling :: connected. i’ve been seeing friends in sacramento and the bay area almost daily. yay team!

wishing/hoping :: summer of intentionality knitting lessons start next week {with miz mercer} and i’m hoping i can keep my light/playful exploring attitude about it. learning new stuff can sometimes be a challenge for my goal driven brain.

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day

Posted on June 24, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Love listening to commercial class rock stations in the car between here and the Bay Area. You get to hear exactly the same songs you listened to growing up practically in the same rotation. Makes for great sing along car rides.

Song notes:

1. Undoubtably one of the best American rock and roll songs of all time. Seriously, who doesn’t love this song? If that’s you, don’t tell me. It might ruin our relationship.

2. American Girl is one of those songs that makes me want to learn to play guitar and get over singing in public.

3. Overheard conversation in my husband’s 4th grade class several years ago, “I know, Mr. B., only Tom can be Petty.”

4. I broke my I-hate-concerts-at-big-venues rule a couple of years ago to see Tom Petty play on a big screen from half a mile away. Just know I learned my lesson.

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What do you think is the best American rock song?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

TGBTS Recipe Edition! Coconut Mint Tea

Posted on June 22, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Wednesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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After an incredibly long, wet {and wonderful} spring, we’re officially in summer. We’ve got the triple digit heat to prove it if the calendar wasn’t enough evidence.

Summertime in Sacramento provides us with ample opportunities for trying to stay cool. For someone like me who naturally runs a little hot, it’s an even bigger job.

Y is for Yogini came up with some super pitta soothing tips which I will be following faithfully this summer. I would also add drink this tea daily (and take day trips to San Francisco like we are today!).

Enjoy!

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Coconut Mint Tea {or what sure tastes a lot like Bliss from Temple}

Ingredients:

1-2 cups coconut milk

1 serving of mint tea, mint sprigs, or an organic TJ’s blend – delicious!

1 TBS local honey

Directions:

Pour coconut milk into your heating vessel {I’m not going to lie, I use a mug in the microwave. Keeps the kitchen cool!}

Put tea into coconut milk.

Heat/steep until hot, up to 4-5 minutes

Stir in honey.

Serve.

I’m also thinking this would be delicious cold – guess I’d better go make some coconut milk ice cubes!

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Do you have any recipes or favorite {dairy free} foods to share?

In Case You Missed It Edition! Volume 32 {Student Blogging}

Posted on June 20, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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Each week I’ll give you links to posts that made me laugh, cry, think or at least raise an eyebrow. Please click the links and check out the posts. You may find something that rocks your world too.

Leave me some feedback in the form of comments below on what you liked, what you hated and what you’d like to see more of. I’m here to help you find the best of what is online.

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School is out for summer and what that really means for teachers is figuring out what we’re going to do with our classes next year. Since I started blogging with my students this year, several people have asked me for help setting up blogs for their students.

One of the biggest stumbling blocks to student blogging is just getting started. When my class set of netbooks finally arrived in late Fall, I went directly to Twitter my – PLN {personal learning network} – for help on how to get started.

{Did I mention Twitter and how ridiculously helpful the teachers on it are? Read this post Dear Teacher Who Isn’t On Twitter.}

I’m not going to lie, my biggest concern was not doing it “right” and now that I’ve had some experience, there is no right way. Just get started. Reading these links is an excellent way to get the nuts and bolts taken care of.

This week’s In Case You Missed It Edition is dedicated to student blogging.

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My Best Of…

Mrs. Ripp has written a number of helpful posts on student blogging. My favorite post, 14 Steps to Meaningful Student Blogging, includes internet safety links, lesson ideas for teaching them how to comment and write posts on paper first as well as how to get comments for your student writers. These posts were my bible in getting started and feeling confident – I highly recommend using her lessons.

One of Mrs. Ripp’s blogging tips is connecting your class with another. Here is her class blog , check it out and leave a comment or two.

What Makes A Great Blog Post – a link that came to me – 3 minutes after asking for help on student blogging this morning.

Not sure what to have your students post about? TeachFactory’s Getting Students Blogging! Students CAN do it! has some great ideas.

Pictures truly are worth a 1,000 words, but where does one find royalty free use pictures for student posts? Creating Lifelong Learners has the answer!

So what do you get comments for your students? Check out #Comments4Kids – a gold mine of ideas for student blogging.

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Speaking of this student blogs …. You know Hollee, co-author of Good Enough is the New Perfect ? She also publishes her sons’ blog Third Grade Rocks. Stop by and show them some comment love.

If you’d like to get together and talk about Hollee’s book this weekend, It’s All Yoga is hosting a book event from 6-8pm. You’re all invited! Hollee will talk about the book and then we’ll have a chance to ask her questions. Books will be available for sale at the studio.

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That is the In Case You Missed It Edition for this week, folks.

Remember to click the links and leave some comments. This is a conversation, you know.

In Case You Missed Edition Archives -click it to see them all.

Saturday Senses

Posted on June 18, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

A way to capture the spirit of each week…

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tasting :: lentils for breakfast/lunch {with quinoa+asparagus+pecans} and dinner {tacos – who knew?}.

hearing :: queen’s greatest hits on repeat

smelling :: cherries

seeing :: a year-long writing plan emerge from genuine collaboration – go 3rd grade team!

feeling :: unexpectedly rested and revived despite working all week. must be the change of pace.

wishing/hoping :: for a bay area trip to happen this week and for me to start my summer of intentionality.

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day

Posted on June 17, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Crazy good week here in summer break land. Spent all week in the Writing Leadership Institute and felt like it was such a great use of time. That is saying a lot – going to work during the first week of break.

Song notes:

1. I’ve been listening to a lot of Queen’s greatest hits lately. I’m sort of discovering them now through a different lens. These were radio songs growing up and they still rock.

2. One of my best friends is getting married today and I’ve got love and best friends on the brain.

3. Freddy is still my future-self rock star idol for those of you keeping tabs.

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What songs did you play at your wedding?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

Summer of Intentionality Part 3: What I Want to Read

Posted on June 14, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Curious about the Summer of Intentionality? Check out Part 1 :What I Want to Learn and Part 2: What I Want to Do

What I Want To Read:

I am participating in the Sacramento Public Library’s Summer Reading Program {and trying to win an iPad 2}.

You can too! If you read my books, let’s get together for tea {or online} to discuss.

My Summer 2011 Reading List

Good Enough Is the New Perfect by Hollee Schwartz Temple and Becky Beaupre Gillespie

Don’t miss It’s All Yoga’s author event with Hollee on June 25th!

Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown

Watch her Ted Talk – if this doesn’t make you want to read this book, I don’t even know what to say.

Beautiful You by Rosie Molinary

In addition to being an accomplished author, Rosie is also an adoptive momma. Her adoption posts are some of the best I’ve read.

What to Expect The First Year by Heidi Murkoff

Better find out what we’re getting ourselves into with Miss Ruby!

Toddler Adoption: The Weaver’s Craft by Mary Hopkins Best

One that’s been recommended by many.

Anything you think I should add to my list?

What’s are you reading this summer?

Summer of Intentionality Part 2: What I Want to Do

Posted on June 13, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

My Summer of Intentionality List continues.

What I Want to Do:

– Visit friends. Bay Area friends especially. So close and yet I don’t see them nearly as often as I’d like.

– Visit Portland friends too. Love them and the Pacific Northwest summer weather.

– Make daily writing a habit.

– Schedule the rest of 2011’s Featured Teachers Interviews. {Are you an amazing teacher? Do you know an amazing teacher? I’m looking for more to interview for the series.}

– Visit a different farmer’s market each week.

– Eat fruit and vegetables at every meal.

– Make and photograph a meal a week from the market.

– Go swimming. In a pool. In a river. In an ocean. Seems totally doable.

– Yoga classes. As a yoga teacher, I find it a) hard to get to class and b) incredibly inspiring when I do.

What do you want to do this summer? Would you like to have an Intentional Summer? You can! Leave your list in the comments or write a post of your own and link back.

Stay tuned for 2011’s Summer Reading List.

Summer of Intentionality Part One: What I Want to Learn

Posted on June 12, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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Thinking back over the summers since becoming a teacher I’ve noticed a pattern. International travel every other year and lots of hanging out not doing much the other years.

Not a bad gig, if you can get it.

But this summer is different. This summer is the summer before we become parents.

We’ve got baby things to prepare for and house projects galore. The travels of past summers were exciting and gave me lots of cool things to talk about, but if I’m honest, a lot of that time wasn’t time spent on purpose.

The hanging out doing nothing much? Clearly, not so mindful.

This summer shall be different. This summer shall be full of intention and mindfulness.

And FUN!

Let’s not forget the FUN!

I declare summer 2011 the Summer of Intentionality.

Thanks to my Twitter friend, author Rosie Molinary, for inspiring this project.

Here’s her summer list.

What I Want to Learn:

1. How to edit photos.

I’ve downloaded Picasa and my new photos of the old 97’s show last weekend. Sounds like a match made in heaven.

2. How to Skype.

This was a Winter Break intention and yet still no webcam. I will join the 21st century this summer!

3. How to knit.

Recently I saw some women knitting at the airport looking so peaceful, I decided in that moment I wanted to become one of them. Knitting looks like quiet activity that keeps me busy, but doesn’t involve a screen.

4. How to use the weight room at the gym.

So many interesting machines and I have no idea how to use them. My thinking is I’ll better mix up my workouts and keep it fresh.

5. How to be a traveler in my own backyard.

Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area was great, except for the part I never went to any of the attractions because I grew up there. This summer I plan to make a bunch of day trips back to the Bay Area to see the sights and escape the Sacramento heat.

Goals:

Ferry to San Francisco

Brush up on my science and get inspired for next school year at the Academy of Sciences.

See some of Picasso’s pieces at the DeYoung.

Take in some modern art at SFMOMA.

Stick my toes in the sand and swim in the ocean at Stinson Beach.

What is your must see/do in San Francisco?

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Stay tuned for more Summer of Intentionality goals: What I Want to Read and What I Want to Do.

Feel free to join in the fun.

Would you like to teach me how to do my stuff or learn along side me?

Would you like to come up with a list of your own?

I’d love to hear how you are spending your summer. Leave your plans in the comments.

Saturday Senses

Posted on June 11, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

A way to capture the spirit of each week…

i took that photo!

{photo credit: me}

tasting :: strawberry lemonade popsicle from fat face inside bows and arrows. it’s going to be a delicious summer.

hearing :: mine has returned to normal after the amazing old 97’s show at harlow’s last saturday night.

smelling :: cookies, cakes and muffins – oh my! my students loved sweet treats at their end of the year celebration.

seeing :: twenty + resting yogis this week. we’re starting a resting revolution, friends!

feeling :: grateful for the few minutes of conversation with rhett after the show. topics: twitter, kids, a cheer squad meet up in the middle of the country – {he suggested chicago} and the glamour of life on the road.

wishing/hoping :: for the sweet balance between complete freedom and intentionality with my precious time off.

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day!

Posted on June 11, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Um, so Friday got away from me in a flurry of yoga and paper. Ending school on a Thursday always throws me for a loop. So it’s Saturday and we’re having Song of the Day today instead.

The obvious choice for an end of the year song would be this, but I can’t post it because he has scared the bejesus out of me since I first saw him in the Bee Gee’s Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band movie in 1978.

Yes, I saw it in the theatre and yes, it was the worst movie – ever. And not just because I spilled an entire Dr. Pepper on my brand new white jeans.

Song notes:

1. Pat rocks. Not just the song, but the whole package. The hair, the makeup, the outfit. Now 30+ years later, she looks completely contemporary. I think I saw that shirt at Bows and Arrows last night.

2. Songs like this make me happy. And sing along really loudly.

3. I just found out Pat has a memoir out called Between A Heart and A Rock Place. Hello summer reading!

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What were you listening to when you were 10 that you still listen to now?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

Saturday Senses

Posted on June 4, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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tasting :: jameson and the giant peach cocktails from shady lady {must get this recipe!}

hearing :: old 97’s at harlow’s tonight!!!

smelling :: june rain {did i move back to portland?}

seeing :: smiling students playing board games with their teacher – apples to apples was a huge hit!

feeling :: ridiculously excited for the show tonight!

wishing/hoping :: for a smooth last week of school and room full of resting yogis tomorrow.

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day!

Posted on June 3, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Bonus!

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Song notes:

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The 97’s are coming! The 97’s are coming!

In case you missed it, my favorite band since forever (ok, except Duran Duran and Quasi) are coming to Sacramento. On a Saturday night. When I’m in town. I don’t think they’ve ever played Sacramento proper.

I may hyperventilate.

1. I heard Every Night Is Friday Night at Justin Herman Plaza last summer and l.o.v.e.d. it from the start. I learned in the Forum the other day that it started out slower until someone suggested they try it like the Clash. Brilliant.

2. I made a 39 song Greatest Hits According to The Tams {me} for some friends the other day. Yes, 39. And yes, it was like choosing your favorite kid. I felt awful leaving some out. And yes, these two made the cut.

3. Timebomb is one of my absolute favorites, however it is met with bittersweetness knowing it is closing the show.

If you haven’t already gotten your tickets for tomorrow’s show, go do it now. The Old 97’s put on the best show you’ll ever go to. Plus then you can hear me singing along with every song.

PS – I still want to win this Meet and Greet with the band. Take me with you if you win?

What is your favorite drive/fly/run to every city in a 500 mile radius band?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

This Is My Happiness: On the Yoga Mat – My Interview with Jenna Francisco Part 2

Posted on June 1, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Teachers.

Don’t you just love them?

I know I do.

There are those that inspire me and those that make me laugh. Some help me solve problems in my classroom and others that help me solve problems in my life.

I’d like to introduce you to some of my favorite teachers here.

Teachers in studios, classrooms and in the world at large. These are the folks you will see featured in my new series of interviews here at Teacher Goes Back to School.

I hope you enjoy these teachers as much as I do!

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Have you met Jenna yet? She’s May’s Featured Teacher, professor, blogger and momma.

Teaching All Over the World: An Interview with Jenna Francisco of This Is My Happiness

Posted on May 31, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Teachers.

Don’t you just love them?

I know I do.

There are those that inspire me and those that make me laugh. Some help me solve problems in my classroom and others that help me solve problems in my life.

I’d like to introduce you to some of my favorite teachers here.

Teachers in studios, classrooms and in the world at large. These are the folks you will see featured in my series of interviews here at Teacher Goes Back to School.

I hope you enjoy these teachers as much as I do!

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Have you met Jenna? She’s the writer of the inspiring This Is My Happiness: Reflections on Travels and Day-to-Day Joys, college instructor, yogi and momma.

Meet Jenna Francisco -May’s TGBTS Featured Teacher.

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What and where do you teach?

I teach ESL (English as a Second Language) at Cosumnes River College in Sacramento, California. I teach all levels, from false-beginners to very advanced, and all skills (writing, reading, pronunciation, grammar, etc.). I love the variety of all the levels of our program, but I prefer teaching the most advanced students because we work with literature, research, and other academic subject matter.

The student population is extremely diverse, from all over the world with different religions, languages, cultures, and ages. All the students have a story of some kind, from being imprisoned in re-education camps or barely surviving as one of the “boat people” from Vietnam, to being the victim of domestic violence or escaping religious persecution. I love working with them, and it all makes for a job that never gets boring.

What is your teaching history?

I started teaching rather spontaneously in 1996 in the Czech Republic, but I had no idea what I was doing and basically no support (very few books, no computer), so planning lessons was really hard. In 1997, I returned to the U.S. and went to graduate school to study linguistics. I was fortunate to get a full-time teaching position when I graduated in 2000. I’ve been at CRC since 2002 and have learned how to teach mostly through experience.

What brought you to teaching?

I got a B.A. in art history and planned to go to grad school, but I had a year to kill, so I traveled in Europe for 3 months and visited my best friend from college, who was living in the Czech Republic with the Peace Corps.

I was totally entranced by the idea of living abroad for an extended period of time, so I asked her if I could move in with her. I started teaching English there because that’s the easiest job for Americans living abroad to find. I had always loved languages, grammar, and writing, and I ended up realizing I could really love doing it if I could just get trained, which is why I went back to school in 1997.

Tell us about your blog.

My blog, This Is My Happiness, is something I started for fun more than a year ago. I originally wanted to write about my travel experiences because traveling is one of my great loves in life, and after I had my first child, I felt a strong desire to travel more, I guess because I felt like life was getting shorter.

My blog has evolved into a place where I have fun expressing myself and occasionally write about other life stuff, too. An unexpected benefit of it is connecting with others; I love reading and responding to people’s comments and now have on-line friends!

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If you’d like to learn more about Jenna and her travels check out her blog, This Is My Happiness, and be sure to stick around for part 2 – coming soon!

For up to the minute news, you can also follow Jenna on Twitter and you can “like” her blog on Facebook.

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Please leave any questions or comment love below – we’d love to hear from you.

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INTERVIEW ARCHIVES:

April 2011 Amy Estes, High School English Teacher and writer of Just A Titch

March 2011 Anna Guest-Jelley Brilliant Mind behind Curvy Yoga

February 2011 Jed Brewer Teacher/Musician/Music Executive/Yogi

December 2010: Madeleine Lohman, Yoga Teacher/Massage Therapist

November 2010: Alicia Herrera – 4th grade teacher/Textile Artist – Spirit House Designs.

October 2010: Ryan Fong – Teaching Assistant/PhD Candidate in English at UC Davis.

September 2010: Michelle Marlahan– Proprietress/Fairy Queen of It’s All Yoga in Sacramento, California.

Saturday Senses

Posted on May 28, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

{via}

tasting :: thai green curry in the crockpot

hearing :: my version of old 97’s greatest hits. {are you as excited as me about their show at harlow’s next weekend?}

smelling :: the conditioning room at the gym – what is that smell exactly? {4 times this week!}

seeing :: single digits on the summer break countdown!

feeling :: so grateful for the 3 day weekend.

wishing/hoping :: my dad and uncle have speedy recoveries. some health stuff going on with the men in my family this week.

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day

Posted on May 27, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Song notes:

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1. Sir, just what exactly is on your suit? {oh my – it did end up as a clue on Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me recently}.

If you find the suit distracting just concentrate on the lovely locks and sweet voice.

2. This song kills me every time. The soul. The heartfelt lyrics. The puppy dog eyes. {sigh}

I do wish it had a better name.

Hot Burrito #1?

Hmmmm.

3. For the record, I would love to hear Old 97s cover this song when they play at Harlow’s June 4th. AND I would love to win this Meet and Greet with the band.

Take me with you if you win?

What is the song you’d love your favorite band to cover?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

Saturday Senses

Posted on May 21, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

{via}

tasting :: pink wine from italy – is it blush or rose? who cares?!? it is delicious.

hearing :: squeals of surprise and delight.

smelling :: lilies without sneezing {thanks, allergy meds!}

seeing :: RUBY!

feeling :: loved.

wishing/hoping :: for a quiet weekend. it’s been a bit hectic around here this week.

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day

Posted on May 20, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Song notes:

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1. Infectious much?

2. I know it is killing long-time Florence fans that this song is making its way into the hourly rotation on commercial radio, but how else would have been the soundtrack to my daily (very short) commute?

3. This song makes me wish I was still in school so I could hop around the school gym singing loudly whilst dancing with all my friends.

Anyone else feel like dancing this week?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

Meet Ruby: 32 Months In the Making

Posted on May 18, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

After what seems like an eternity, we finally got a referral!

(In English means we were matched with a baby).

We’ve decided to call her Ruby.

Projected travel time: 6-8 months from now (lots of paperwork and time in court).

Not to worry, we have about 10 bazillion house projects to do and finally a reason to do them.

We will keep you all updated with new pictures as they come in and updates on travel as we find out.

Thank you for all your support and love over the last 32 months.

In Case You Missed It Edition! Volume 31

Posted on May 16, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

{via}

Each week I’ll give you links to posts that made me laugh, cry, think or at least raise an eyebrow. Please click the links and check out the posts. You may find something that rocks your world too.

Leave me some feedback in the form of comments below on what you liked, what you hated and what you’d like to see more of. I’m here to help you find the best of what is online.

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A completely insane week. I can’t believe I was just in Texas last week. Nutty.

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My Best Of…

Do you ever feel like you are living a double life? A work you and a you you? My life is definitely much more integrated than ever before and yet Summer Tams still exists. Check out Madeleine’s post about bringing yourselves back together: Code Names and Living A Double Life

Interested in learning to meditate and aren’t sure where to start? Check out The Open Heart Project.

We Are What We Do – kinda says it all, huh? via Charlotte’s Fancy.

What are you doing this summer? My new favorite blogger, Rosie Molinary’s, post Summer of Intentionality got my wheels churning.

Jenna from This Is My Happiness (formerly Adventures of a 21st Century Family) did an awesome post about an upcoming Picasso exhibit straight from Musée National Picasso, Paris. I’m adding it to my summer today list right now, what about you?

Speaking of this summer…. have you read Good Enough is the New Perfect yet? If not, get yourself a copy and start thinking about what you’d say to the author is you got to meet her because Hollee Schwartz Temple will be in Sacramento at It’s All Yoga in late June. Details to follow.

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That is the In Case You Missed It Edition for this week, folks.

Remember to click the links and leave some comments. This is a conversation, you know.

In Case You Missed Edition Archives -click it to see them all.

Saturday Senses

Posted on May 14, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

{via}

tasting :: red vines {old-time favorite candy – it was that kind of week}.

hearing :: npr podcasts. my new addiction.

smelling :: chicken and roasted vegetables in the oven.

seeing :: high stakes testing end for another year!

feeling :: a HUGE week here, so all feelings are present.

wishing/hoping :: for the predicted rain for tomorrow. jeddy is celebrating his first ever pajama day(!) and a rainy day will help with the desire for nothing, but staying in. can’t wait!

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day

Posted on May 13, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Song notes:

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1. This has been rattling around in my head for days. This is officially the strangest week of my life. When I can share, I will. For now just know – DAMN.

2. When this song first came out, my friends and I listened obsessively and mimicked the video showing off our best GM moves.

3. I’m convinced that George would be secretly thrilled a bunch of teenaged girls spent their afternoons pretending to be him.

What about you? What were your sing along songs in high school?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

In Case You Missed It Edition! Volume 30

Posted on May 9, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

{via}

Each week I’ll give you links to posts that made me laugh, cry, think or at least raise an eyebrow. Please click the links and check out the posts. You may find something that rocks your world too.

Leave me some feedback in the form of comments below on what you liked, what you hated and what you’d like to see more of. I’m here to help you find the best of what is online.

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Compressed family time this weekend. 24 hours round-trip to Texas. So happy I was there for my niece and nephew’s big days and to hand-deliver Mother’s Day cards.

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My Best Of…

You all know of my huge blog crush on Pink of Perfection, right? Well Sarah went on a yoga retreat and reported about it in the 6 Things I Learned On A Yoga Retreat. Totally spot on.

Staying Green and Healthy When Time Is Running Short – um, sign me up. I couldn’t click this fast enough.\

The High Cost of Low Teacher Salaries from Dave Eggers in the NYTimes.

Why You NEED to Get Up Earlier (And How To Do It) found on Twitter via @sarahschaale

Terry Gross talked education this week on Fresh Air.

Michelle is offering an online meditation class which starts tomorrow. Don’t miss out!

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That is the In Case You Missed It Edition for this week, folks.

Remember to click the links and leave some comments. This is a conversation, you know.

In Case You Missed Edition Archives -click it to see them all.

Books I Love…Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight In Our Busy Lives

Posted on May 8, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Happy Sunday!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy (end of) Teacher Appreciation Week!

I’ve been trying to write this post all week and yet between being crunched for time and technical difficulties (could be WordPress or user error – the jury is still out on that), it just hasn’t happened.

I am happy to finally be telling you about this book.

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You all know I love me some rest. In fact, I am currently enjoying a Pajama Day and I even have a Rest Manifesto.

Part of what I see as my role in life is to try to convince people to slow down and chill the hell out a bit. What is the damn hurry, anyway?

I found this book on a blog {forgive me, I have since lost the link} and when I asked the always lovely Madeleine about it, she highly recommended it.

Let’s be honest, the title alone was enough to pull me in.

I’ll admit, I cringed a bit about all the religious stuff. That’s how I knew I really loved this book, I kept reading despite the cringing. The resting suggestions are cringe-worthy if you ask me.

Here’s a little gem I shared with my Sunday Snoozers last week:

Remember the Sabbath. Rest is an essential enzyme of life, as necessary as air.

Sort of sums it up, right?

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

My life is so.much.better. when I take the time to chill out and get enough sleep. It’s better when I don’t take on every project offered or try to do everything in one day…or even all the yoga poses offered.

Having a hard time convincing yourself rest is time well spent?

Well, Wayne Muller (the author) has pulled evidence from many world religions arguing GOD wants you to rest.

Yes, you read that right: even GOD wants you to rest.

With chapters titled Rest for the Weary, The Joy of Rest and A Life Well Lived plus micro actions and poems, this is a perfect yoga book for the most non-yoga person.

I highly recommend this book.

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Poetry Break!

LET EVENING COME

Let the light of late afternoon

shine through chinks in the barn, moving

up the bales as the sun moves down.

Let the cricket take chafing

as a woman takes up her needles

and her yarn. Let evening come.

Let dew collect on the abandoned

in long grass. Let the stars appear

and the moon disclose her sliver horn.

Let the fox go back to its sandy den.

Let the wind die down. Let the shed

go black inside. Let evening come.

To the bottle in the ditch, to the scoop

in the oats, to the air in the lung

let evening come.

Let it come as it will, and don’t

be afraid. God does not leave us

comfortless, so let evening come.

–Jane Kenyon

Saturday Senses

Posted on May 7, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

{via}

tasting :: veggie burger on seeded sourdough

hearing :: family stories

smelling :: airports {sacramento, lax, el paso}

seeing :: my niece walk across the stage to collect her college diploma and my nephew get his eagle scout honors

feeling :: like a very proud aunt.

wishing/hoping :: for all my lovely readers to have a wonderful mother’s day.

What about you?

What are your senses this Saturday?

Looking back, how was your week?

Leave a comment and tell me all about it. I’d seriously love to hear about your week. Now’s not the time to be shy.

This weekly tradition inspired by Pink of Perfection’s Five Sense Friday.

Don’t forget to click the links!

Song of the Day

Posted on May 6, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

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{click the image for more information on the band}

If you are reading this in a reader, click on over to see the video.

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Song notes:

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1. Yet another great band from Portland, Oregon. {I also heart Little Sue, Quasi and Elliott Smith}.

2. I am a huge fan of a story telling song. Who doesn’t love a story about a guy someone makes out with who never calls?

3. Truth be told though, I don’t think I could make out with a guy named Eugene. Plus I don’t think my husband would appreciate it.

What about you?

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

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For other songs that have gotten stuck in my head recently:

Previous Songs

Yoga+Music {notquite365} Hey Eugene! by Pink Martini – Recipe Edition!

Posted on May 4, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

It’s Wednesday and that means the Recipe Edition!

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Spring is here! Spring is here!

The best way to tell spring has arrived (besides the start of high stakes testing) is strawberries have started to show up at the farmer’s market.

Here’s how I have enjoyed them recently.

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Do you have any recipes or favorite {dairy free} foods to share?

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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice.

Wondering about Yoga+Music {notquite365}?

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Today’s music is –

Click the album cover for more info on the band and details how to buy this record. {hint, hint}

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Yoga Teaching Update:

NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT!

First Sundays of each month – 90 minute – fully restorative class.

Please check my teaching schedule for more details.

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Occasionally I’ll still rotate into the FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers schedule

(21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up onlinewww.itsallyoga.com.

These classes are for every body – level 1/2. Bring your friends!

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{Don’t forget to CLICK the links!}

If you found this post useful, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

In Case You Missed It Edition! Volume 29

Posted on May 2, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

{via}

Each week I’ll give you links to posts that made me laugh, cry, think or at least raise an eyebrow. Please click the links and check out the posts. You may find something that rocks your world too.

Leave me some feedback in the form of comments below on what you liked, what you hated and what you’d like to see more of. I’m here to help you find the best of what is online.

+++++

Strange how going back to work helped me settle and actually feel rested. Pretty sure the routine and predictable schedule helped me get grounded. Is this true for you too or am I becoming one of my third graders?

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My Best Of…

Smoking As Dirty Pranayama from Elephant Journal. I know it’s controversial, but seriously, smokers pay attention to their breath way more than most. I found this so compelling.

Smore’s Cake In A Jar from How Sweet It Is – Are you kidding me???? Who wants to de-dairy this for me? I’m still shaking my head at the absolute brilliance.

Renewal – from Namaste *Heather – sounds like the theme from this week’s class. Rest, rest, rest instead of go, go, go.

7 Tips for Giving Effective Praise from the Happiness Project. Check out the comments too. Good stuff.

Just A Titch is Ms. April, TGBTS’s Featured Teacher, – love her.

Summer break is on my mind and so is travel. Jenna from This Is My Happiness recently posted on her travels to and in Brazil.

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That is the In Case You Missed It Edition for this week, folks.

Remember to click the links and leave some comments. This is a conversation, you know.

In Case You Missed Edition Archives -click it to see them all.

Just A Titch: On the Mat – An Interview with Amy Estes, Part 2

Posted on May 1, 2011 by Teacher Goes Back to School

Teachers.

Don’t you just love them?

I know I do.

There are those that inspire me and those that make me laugh. Some help me solve problems in my classroom and others that help me solve problems in my life.

I’d like to introduce you to some of my favorite teachers here.

Teachers in studios, classrooms and in the world at large. These are the folks you will see featured in my new series of interviews here at Teacher Goes Back to School.

I hope you enjoy these teachers as much as I do!

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Have you met Amy yet? She’s April’s Featured Teacher and kick ass high school teacher.

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Remember the Sabbath. Rest is an essential enzyme of life, as necessary as air.

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