Teacher Talk: Outfits

Today (a day late, sorry!) I'm linking up with Bloom and Southern Simplicity on our 2nd Teacher Talk link up.

Today's topic might be one of my favorite things ever....CLOTHES!  I don't even know when my love for fashion started, but I can remember in high school being very picky about outfits and trying new things.  My poor husband....

I used to work in a law firm and financial institutions before becoming a teacher (learn about that here if you haven't read it yet), so I've always been very used to dressing up for work.  At my school, we are required to wear work casual everyday except for Fridays when we can wear jeans.

Dressing up is fun for me.  I've always enjoyed it.  It just makes me feel better to pull myself together in the morning and be fresh for the day.  I've made it my mission since becoming a teacher to always look nice for the kids.  The heels had to go, but I've transitioned nicely to flats if I do say so myself. ;)

Say what you will, but they way a person dresses speaks.  I try to be mindful of that for school.  It's a psychology, if you will.  I fully believe that what I wear makes a difference- to me and to those kids.  If I've had an "off" day and maybe my hair isn't in place like usual, they will comment right away.  Kids notice just like adults do and a lot of times, they're more vocal...ha!

Here are my rules for my teaching outfits: have at least one statement piece, wear bright colors, try to wear comfortable shoes (but they all become uncomfortable after being on your feet for 10 hours!), dress in clothing that's comfortable, always dress modestly, have interchangable/versatile pieces, and spend just a little time on deciding what to wear.

My hubs was a great sport as we played "teacher fashion show"- taking pictures of me in some of my clothes I wear to work.  He was CRACKING me up. As you'll be able to tell, I LOVE bright colors.  They make me happy.

Dress-The Loft; Shoes-Dillards (on clearance last Winter); Jewelery-Dillards (on clearance last Winter)

Top & Pants-The Loft; Necklace-Etsy; Shoes-Target; Earrings-Wal-Mart

Piko Top-Shop The Rage; Pants-either The Loft or New York & Co (can't remember! I have a pair from both places); Necklace-Steinmart; Shoes-Target

Piko Top-Shop the Rage; Pants-Steinmart; Shoes-Target; Jewelery-Roccoco

Top-The Loft; Pencil Skirt-New York & Co; Shoes-Target; Jewelry-The Limited

Top-Traget; Maxi-Dillards; Earrings were from my mom; Bracelet-Francesca's

Top & Pants-The Loft; Shoes-Target

I didn't realize how much of my wardrobe came from The Loft until I took these pictures.  I'm lucky enough to live close to two different outfits and a regular store, so I get some really good deals.  I used to shop at The Limited for almost everything, but the quality just wasn't there.  I also buy a lot from Target, various boutiques, Dillards (when they have a sale), and I hit up Steinmart/TJ Maxx/Ross every once in awhile.  I don't discriminate. ;)

Thanks for taking the time to read my silly outfit post! :)  I hope you have a great finish to your week!

Teacher Talk, Vol. 1 - Introducing ME!

I signed up for Teacher Talk thinking this would be a fun way to reach out and connect with my fellow teachers in blogland!  I'm trying to be better about blogging.  I kind of let it go since I started teaching two years ago and thought this might hold me accountable...PLUS I'll get to meet some really great people who share a calling with me.



A Little About Me
I think it's important to first off say that I am a Christ follower and Jesus comes #1 in my life.  He is in all that I do and is constantly guiding me and extending his never ending grace when I fall short.  He is THE reason why I teach.  Let me explain.

I come from a long line of teachers.  My mom and dad are both teachers as well.  I guess you could say it's in my blood.  I always wanted to be a teacher from the time I was 4 years old.  My mom would bring home old teacher textbooks and me and my friends would play school.  I was ALWAYS the teacher, or so they like to recall. ;)  When I graduated high school, I began college as an Elementary Education major.  After my first year, my love of math drove me to change to a Business major.  My parents told me all about the politics of being a teacher and the money is not good at all.  I need to add that I was living way outside of the Lord's Will for my life at this time and I never once prayerfully considered any decision I made.  Nor did I give Him a second thought.  So, on that whim, I changed my major to Business Administration with a minor in Industrial Psychology.  I graduated and the economy collapsed.  I couldn't find a job in my career field anywhere locally.  Now this is another story for another post in how God weaved EVERYTHING together, but I'll keep it focused on teaching for this one.

I found myself working at a law firm in a job where I had never even applied.  I was there for a year and a half and finally a position opened up in a company I had dreamed of working for.  It was my "dream job".  During this time, I started getting back to Christ.  I met my now husband, we found a church home, and God was slowly pruning me and shaping me into the woman He desired me to be.  I started to feel the tug in my heart to teach.  But it was impossible (I thought).  I was a single girl, living on my own, broke as a joke, and going back to college was out of the question.  I was almost done with my MBA too.  Was I just going to let all of that money go down the drain?  Eventually, yes.

So, I took this "dream job" and it was a NIGHTMARE.  I had the worst possible experience and I cried everyday.  I worked horrible hours, for the first time experienced harassment, and was just genuinely miserable.  One day, as I was walking back to my cubicle from the Starbucks on this corporation's campus, I had this overwhelming feeling that I had to teach.  I hadn't thought about teaching in months.  I stored it in the back of my head, knowing it would be impossible with all that this job required of me for me to ever go back to school.

Lo and behold, the law firm where I first worked was in need of an assistant for the senior partner and they were willing to take me back.  I put in my notice and I was out of there faster than a fart in a fan factory.  I never looked back.  I truly believe that God allowed me to work there and He opened that door for me to prove to me that it wasn't what I really wanted.  He had something better in store.

Once I got back to the law firm, I was able to have more free time and I started doing my research.  I found out that in Florida, if you have a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university, then you can apply for a Temporary Certificate to teach.  Well, it's much more complicated than that with lots of testing and classes, but I had the information I needed.  I registered for the first test I needed, passed, then submitted my life to the state of Florida to obtain my temporary certificate.  This was in April of 2011.  I got cleared and received my temporary certificate in late May.  I applied for every job under the sun in my county and all surrounding counties.  I received about 70 rejection emails.  No one would even interview me because I did not have a degree in education.  I had given up hope and I remember driving home one night and having a full out conversation with God.  I was in the car alone and literally talking out loud.  I kept saying over and over, "God, why did you tell me to do this when you're not going to let me?  I give up!  I'm never going to get a job.  Why God, why?  This isn't fair."  I felt His voice deep inside my heart telling me "patience".  Through all my other struggles, I have definitely heard "patience" over and over again!  He is always at work.

I had written it off.  It was now August and school was about to start.  My mom called me one evening right as I was getting off work and told me there was going to be a position open the next day and I needed to apply.  I told her no, I was done and tired of the rejection emails.  And I really thought I was done...until I couldn't shake the feeling and that voice again kept telling me to do it.  So I did it.  I received a call, got an interview, rocked the interview, and was offered the job the Friday before preschool started.  STRESS!  I was thrown to the wolves and it was sink or swim.  I loved every second of it.  I have never not wanted to go to work since becoming a teacher.  I'm still at the same school and have formed incredible bonds with my students, parents, co-workers, and principal.  I love them all so much.  This has been the 2nd biggest blessing in my life other than marrying my husband.  I love, love, love what I do.  It truly is my passion.  I also have obtained my permanent certificate.  I met all of my requirements, testing, and courses and I could not have done it without God's hand leading me every step of the way.  He truly, truly, truly causes all things to work together for good. (Romans 8:28)

Where I Live
I live in the good ole Sunshine State - Florida!  And that means the dreaded FCAT!  But only one more year!!  Then we move on to the PARCC or whatever else the state decides.

What I Teach
I teach 4th grade.  What that means for me being a Florida teacher is I teach Math, Reading, Writing, Social Studies, and Science.  Writing, Math, and Reading are the big tested areas in 4th grade here.  I also coach our school's Sunshine Math Team where we compete with all the other schools in the county.  I still get to use my love of math. :)  And let me just tell you - My degree in Business and Industrial Psych comes in handy every single day.

Why I Teach
I teach because God told me to.  Plain and simple.  I am living out His Will for my life and I have 100% peace in my heart.  I am exactly where He wants me.  I teach because I love every single thing about it; even the stuff that gets on my nerves.  I love it all.  I teach to be the light in the darkness for some of these kids.  I teach to be the hands and feet of Jesus.  I teach to extend the same love and grace that my Father has given me.  I teach to instill confidence and reassurance in the hearts and minds of children.  I teach to encourage kids.  I teach to be their biggest fan.  I teach because I love those kids.  I teach because there's nothing else that I rather do.

What I'm Loving Wednesday - Summer Stuff

I haven't done a link up in a really long time.  There are so many things that I'm loving right now and I figured it was a good day for a What I'm Loving Wednesday blog post.  Plus, I need to focus on the positives and keep my mind fixed on what is good!  I have so much to be thankful for.

 

First and foremost, I'm loving my husband so very much.  He's my greatest blessing.  No one can make me laugh like he does.  He gets me, he listens to me, he loves me unconditionally, and most importantly he loves the Lord so much.  Through all of life's struggles and victories, I'm thankful I have him to share them with me.

I'm LOVING summer vacation.  Who doesn't?  It's almost 10:00 a.m. and I'm still in my PJs.  I really don't have any plans to change out of them anytime soon.  I've been especially lazy this week and I'm so thankful for the down time. I needed it badly!

I'm loving reading the Bible in 90 days.  Some of us from my Sunday school class are doing this together.  It's amazing the difference it's made in my daily life.  We're on day 38.  I'm a day and a half behind, but I plan to be all caught up by tomorrow.  I feel so full and I have a better understanding of how everything connects.  It's a chronological study so it's really interesting to see why certain Psalms were written and just how amazing God's plan has been all along for his people.  It gives me a lot of strength and renews my faith to be constantly reminded that He's got it all figured out.  I just have to be still, quiet, and trust! Easier said than done, right?!  But I'm continuing to learn and trying to be the best that I can be - the person He calls me to be.

I'm loving my new glasses and sunglasses!  Whoop whoop, I can finally see super clear again!  I went ahead and got the prescription sunglasses because I can't wear contacts.  Boy am I happy I did.  They're amazing!  And these are my 1st pair of Ray Bans...I totally know what all the hype is about now.  I think they're better than my Costas.

I'm loving this Costa Rican coffee my dear friend was nice enough to share with us.  Jared and I are hooked...it's so good and smooth!  I'm enjoying a cup as I type. :)

I'm loving this summer collection by LORAC.  I picked it up about 2 months ago from Ulta.  I was just looking for a good bronzer, but ended up buying this kit because it was such a great deal.  I love absolutely everything in it!  I wear all of it every day, except the tantalizer - that's only for special occasions or if I'm feeling particularly pale.  I think it would look great on any skin tone, especially during the summer months.  It's my must have make-up right now.

Not be be vain, but I'm also loving this blush by bareMinerals.  The color is called Fruity Cocktail.  It looks super bright, but it goes on pretty sheen and adds a nice glow.  I love makeup.  I just learned how to really put it on a few years ago, so I'm still discovering new products and methods.

 

I'm loving my linen pants and shorts I picked up recently at Old Navy.  If you live in the South, then you know how grueling the summer heat and humidity can be.  Linen is my summer staple.  These are so cute and extremely comfortable.  It's like I'm wearing yoga pants, but I look a little more dressed up.

 

I've seriously contemplated going back and getting these shorts in the cobalt blue color they have as well.  They're so comfy...perfect for those summer BBQs where you eat a little too much and need room for your food baby. ;)  You know it happens!

And last but not least, I'm loving my two crazy dogters.  They are looney, but they provide so much company and entertainment.  They're such sweet girls.  And they're pretty cute too.  I still love Rosie's smile in this picture.  So full of personality!

Hope your week has been good - halfway to the weekend!  Be blessed!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

I'm linking up with Jamie at This Kind of Love for What I'm Loving Wednesday.

Today I'm loving my Daily Bible verse: 

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. -Mark 12:30

 It immediately put me in a good mood and I started singing the song that has this Bible verse in it.

I am loving my time off.  It's so relaxing to wake up and drink my coffee while watching GMA.  During the school year, I leave the house at 6:15, so GMA isn't even on yet.

I am loving our new mercury glass lamp (the one on the left).

I am loving our patio furniture set.  It sure is nice to have a comfortable place to sit on the back porch.

I am loving my sweet, supportive, made just for me hub-sand.  He's the answer to my prayers.  He cracks me up, loves me unconditionally, makes me feel good about myself, and always knows just what to say.  Even when I don't want to hear it!  ;)  Our relationship has grown so much.  I didn't think we could get closer, but our miscarriage experience has changed that.  We both feel like we're closer than ever before.

I'm excited about my new personalized school planner from May Books.  Am I a nerd for this?  Possibly, but I'm excited for the upcoming school year.

It's the middle of summer in Florida and it's been hot, hot, hot.  But not today!  I'm loving the cool walk I had with my dog-ter this morning. Hence the reason why it was so cool...Looks like we're in for another stormy day, but that's okay with me.

And I'm loving that this song has a whole new meaning for us.

XO

What I'm Loving Wednesday

I'm linking up with Jamie's blog for WILW.  I haven't done one of these in awhile & figured I'd count my blessings....so, what I'm loving...

NUMERO UNO - A clean bill of health after a little scare recently.  PTL!

My class.  We did a "buddy read" today and they read stories to a kindergarten class.  I was so amazed at how kind they were with the kids and how much they LOVED it.  Before we left to go read, they were complaining that they didn't want to do it.  After we got back, they asked if we could do that everyday - haha!  I took a few pictures to capture the sweetness :)

I love those kids.

I am loving my sweet husband for his unwavering support and encouragement.  He is truly a gift.

This cute spring outfit.  I love floral prints.

Source: Uploaded by user

Another spring outfit - coral and teal are two of my favorite colors.

Source: polyvore.com

Frozen yogurt - I am an ice cream feen.  I'll eat it everyday if I can.  But then I'll feel guilty.  Luckily, there's frozen yogurt so I don't have to feel as guilty about eating it.  And even better, we have two shops minutes from our house.  I will tell you, we have been to Sweet Frog 4 times in the last 10 days.  Poor Jared.

 

*mine is the one that looks like a 5 year old's.

And lastly, my new B&N purchases - a prayer journal, Radical, and The Confident Woman.

Hope y'all are having a wonderful week!

What I'm Loving Wednesday!

I'm linking up with Jamie over at This Kind of Love for What I'm Loving Wednesday.

Here's some stuff I am loving right now...

I get almost a whole week off for Thanksgiving.  I can't wait.

And I'm making these adorable turkey cookies with my class next week.

I adore big sweaters, tights and boots - so comfy AND cute.

I'm also loving this saying.  It's SO true!  I see people complain and worry so much.  I admit, I have been guilty of this as well.  Stop and think, have you prayed about it as much as you've talked about it?

Mmmm another good one.  I love the life God has blessed me with.

I'm also loving my sunless tanning lotion.  This girl's getting pale and I've sworn off tanning beds.  Thank goodness for Clarins & St. Tropez!

I saw this outfit on Pinterest, loved it but knew I couldn't afford that pricey striped shirt.  Low and behold on one of my random Target trips, I came across one that looks almost exactly like this for $9.00.  Hello clearance section!!!  Now my outfit is complete - already had everything else :)

And last but not least, I'll leave you with one more thing I love.

Let that sink in.

Be blessed! XOXO

Show us Your Life - Show us Your Pets

I'm taking time out of a busy schedule to hook up with Kelly over at Kelly's Korner for Show us Your Life - Show us Your Pets.  Let me clarify that for me, it is simply PET.  She is enough, ha!

Let me start from the beginning....J and I had been married about 4 months.  We had talked about getting a dog, but it pretty much ended there - until one freezing cold rainy day in January of 2011.  My friend had rescued a little puppy from the side of the road.  She was almost run over by a UPS truck, her little ribs were showing, and her tail was broken.  Long story short, the dog was lost and didn't have any identification.  My friend couldn't keep her and posted a picture of her on facebook before taking her to the Humane Society.  J saw it and emailed me telling me he wanted her.  I thought he was joking.

We went to see her that night and she immediately ran up to us and starting kissing us.  She was the sweetest little thing ever.  We took her home that night.  We named her Rosalie, Rosie for short.

The first night at our house went well, but it was CLEAR that she had never been an inside dog.  We immediately started kennel training her and she did fine...until two days later.  We both work so we had to leave her in her kennel.  I was going to come home on my lunch break and let her out.  When I walked in the door, she greeted me.  At first, I bent down to pet her but then the realization hit me that she was not supposed to be out....she was supposed to be in her kennel.  She had escaped.  Oh.my.word.  She had jumped in the trash can and trash sprinkled my floors from the kitchen through the dining room and into the living room. I walked in the guest room (where I used to get ready) and she had pooped on my bathrobe and peed on the bed.  I spent my whole lunch break cleaning and sanitizing and wondering what to do about this dog.  This timid little shy puppy was starting to show her true colors!  But at least she hadn't eaten any shoes.  (I am pleased to report that she engages in no such behaviors anymore.)

Time went on and I realized this dog is just plain crazy.  But she is so entertaining.  She definitely has a walnut for a brain, she can't help it.  She loves to ride backwards in the car, eat blankets, tell on herself, will tear any toy apart in minutes, absolutely LOVES kids, digs way too many holes, eats peanut butter everyday, begs for ice cubes, prefers to give hugs rather than just being petted, sneaks on the couch when I'm not watching, hides from you, yawns very loudly each morning to announce that she's awake, howls every night, and will run from you if she doesn't want to come inside.  I love her, bless her little heart.  There have been many a tiff over our little dog-ter but I don't know what I'd do without her.  She is pure entertainment - if not for me, then for someone listening to a story about her.






Here's Rosie's life in pictures.  We still don't know what kind of dog she is.  We thought Rottweiler at first but she is too little.  Definitely some Lab in there and possibly Beagle, maybe German Shepard, a hound of some type.  She is a good old fashioned MUTT.

always ready to play.  i love her eyebrows.

hiding because she didn't want a bath

this is what we call "butt sitting".  she's a butt sitter.

ahhh...the "indestructible football" that she annihilated in days.  she's also laying behind two holes she dug that morning.

she ran straight into her kennel.  i later found new holes in the yard - just an example of how she tells on herself.  also, notice the shredded blanket.  doesn't matter what kind we use, she eats them all.

Rosalie Posalie - she's the coolest, weirdest little pup on the block. ;)