tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40424077206118310772024-03-19T00:36:43.069-04:00I'm Living My WordsA place to share my little corners of the world.Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.comBlogger641125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-81788370314842304412024-03-18T21:55:00.005-04:002024-03-18T21:55:47.963-04:00Phenomenon: Day 18I found myself entering the tube today. The MRI tube. <div>My shoulder needed imaging to determine a cause for the pain I've been experiencing. Although I've had an MRI on two other occasions, it's always quite a phenomenon. </div><div><br /></div><div>I lay there wondering how it all works. I know it's magnets and waves, but it's so strange. </div><div><br /></div><div>You lay there. The noises are so bizarre, unlike anything else. It's the most alien $#!% you've ever experienced. But you just keep laying there, like it's the most normal thing. They say, "Only five more minutes," and it feels like forever, but you lay still, avoiding the little itches on your face and the fact that breathing feels like too much movement. You wonder if you'll cough or feel the need to sneeze. You just lay there, waiting for it to end. Then...it does. You go on about your day like it's the most normal thing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaV0EG8R6z5HeNFMPUiDCdmvfiT-oCiKCWx_wj_Jte6TmU0ZBpzNbzGwvp5nsMM8d5ulyNyqqPle88XbkwxHmLUxB4A5ORzuJxOcO7He68iWIguONoZbytPgWssn-b7OkpjL2X6T3CUcjFX5AOVdDFzi9ZiF3J4V-v08n1F3pP5XxWqgZJ6Gg-dJmhCq4/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaV0EG8R6z5HeNFMPUiDCdmvfiT-oCiKCWx_wj_Jte6TmU0ZBpzNbzGwvp5nsMM8d5ulyNyqqPle88XbkwxHmLUxB4A5ORzuJxOcO7He68iWIguONoZbytPgWssn-b7OkpjL2X6T3CUcjFX5AOVdDFzi9ZiF3J4V-v08n1F3pP5XxWqgZJ6Gg-dJmhCq4/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-22306041368545252262024-03-17T21:04:00.000-04:002024-03-17T21:04:25.285-04:00Early Birthday Dinner: Day 17<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoj_RXRpvNcWLq1487n9dTN_9WdZ2MRRCVvnruQipWLSFKmkh87nkHY3M3whQb8ZEbkH0x93yG4MXBRUH4HAtfWoxx-jC15uu84gVnvLAObcpOXqpeRchuBYDikpFao3iBjsyoDqi6m0jj1ibUQjlKbQanOvYhdn28lkzh6UUVoQEyXGg0Mo0TwzXJEHA/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoj_RXRpvNcWLq1487n9dTN_9WdZ2MRRCVvnruQipWLSFKmkh87nkHY3M3whQb8ZEbkH0x93yG4MXBRUH4HAtfWoxx-jC15uu84gVnvLAObcpOXqpeRchuBYDikpFao3iBjsyoDqi6m0jj1ibUQjlKbQanOvYhdn28lkzh6UUVoQEyXGg0Mo0TwzXJEHA/w91-h91/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="91" /></a></div>It's the seventeenth day of March, and my youngest will be seventeen in just over a week. It's always hard to believe that kids grow up. As a teacher, I've watched all kinds of kids grow older. When it is your own, it still can catch you off guard. <p></p><p>Yesterday, we had an early birthday dinner and gift-opening celebration with my parents. Arie was amazed and shocked. </p><p>Arie is a big crafter: paints, crochet, beads, clay, and all things paper-related. My mom is also a big crafter and loves this trait of Arie's. It is something they can share with each other. So, when my mom asked about getting Arie a Cricut Joy, I knew that would get a big smile. </p><p>What do you think?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaupuCtLi1hQ43W9ettoD7TSGY1b1WR5yC9YAn40sjhxpjhoDtRGXn1b9U_4s13hDnMSYpPU1c4cdQCRVzlXrzT4N7ohyphenhyphenFxy2Ign6bW8tmEWBsgJFFRDsZJU-LDD61tvrzJRD0hjdZ9cpcYNXU4hWdWSd0d3VM9KjRNj20uWhXzFbX99ybOvnI2TIFZfk/s640/IMG_2405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaupuCtLi1hQ43W9ettoD7TSGY1b1WR5yC9YAn40sjhxpjhoDtRGXn1b9U_4s13hDnMSYpPU1c4cdQCRVzlXrzT4N7ohyphenhyphenFxy2Ign6bW8tmEWBsgJFFRDsZJU-LDD61tvrzJRD0hjdZ9cpcYNXU4hWdWSd0d3VM9KjRNj20uWhXzFbX99ybOvnI2TIFZfk/s320/IMG_2405.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-31608752618755267682024-03-16T21:06:00.005-04:002024-03-16T21:06:59.160-04:00First Robin: Day 16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLjlJsV1Cn-5jFHgcuZwrRxBYwBlRW9ZqvbM27Cf5xI-9bgyI_b8-jJuT8wRFShGrGxCTpKOOy8wWhyLCIQmenh3MfGzBGWdcjmvaPrjgskMfGKq9l-JQ1B3rdfGtJ-Fxy2x8alK-Pjuous7ecqHlT0Rm_hGDNeXwEpitHqRqv_9uAO7ZXkUfRYpxlaw/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="95" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLjlJsV1Cn-5jFHgcuZwrRxBYwBlRW9ZqvbM27Cf5xI-9bgyI_b8-jJuT8wRFShGrGxCTpKOOy8wWhyLCIQmenh3MfGzBGWdcjmvaPrjgskMfGKq9l-JQ1B3rdfGtJ-Fxy2x8alK-Pjuous7ecqHlT0Rm_hGDNeXwEpitHqRqv_9uAO7ZXkUfRYpxlaw/w95-h95/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="95" /></a></div>My youngest and I went on a quick trip to have dinner with my parents tonight. There were French fries, iced tea, and dessert. <div>We talked about school, summer plans, and an upcoming art festival as we headed home. We chatted and laughed, passing the time. </div><div>Something caught my eye just as we turned down the street to enter our neighborhood. </div><div>I quickly pulled to the side, peering over the car's passenger side to see if my suspicions were confirmed. </div><div>"It's my first Robin!" </div><div><span style="color: #999999;">"Oh my gosh mom"</span></div><div>"Can you see it? Can you get a photo? Wait, I'll do it." </div><div><span style="color: #999999;">"MOM!"</span></div><div>I took multiple photos. Many are too blurry to use. However, a couple got the bird's good side. Now Arie knows firsthand my reaction to seeing my first robin of spring. Few people have witnessed the enthusiasm. </div><div><br /></div><div><img alt="" id="id_6a64_1f00_3a8f_d675" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/d/1VBNOdY0ZBJxNPgsvTY8hTIoo0h4O_GjQ" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br /><br /><img alt="" id="id_b0df_bd09_5d02_4c46" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/d/1Uz-8DH5YW6IZ8MLMkLMwuZq8w-yV6w2m" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br /><br /><br /></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-53804795832142667712024-03-15T21:49:00.002-04:002024-03-15T21:49:37.346-04:00Friday Tired: Day 15It's been a long, long week. Next week will likely not let up. But...after four more work days, I'll be on spring break. I'm so grateful for the weekend. <div><br /></div><div>This week brought:</div><div><br /></div><div>Students in crisis </div><div>Lots of staff out</div><div>Several sick kids</div><div>in</div><div>and </div><div>out</div><div>Time change burnout</div><div>Low energy</div><div>High ENERGY</div><div>Teachers feeling feelings</div><div>Budgets due--today</div><div>Leadership planning</div><div>Behavior plan changes</div><div>One after school parent meeting</div><div>One planning time parent meeting</div><div>Concerned emails</div><div>Phone calls with concerned parents</div><div>One staff meeting</div><div>Two days of after school help</div><div>A dehumidifier malfunction</div><div>A huge loud fan in my room all day</div><div>Snacks given</div><div>Mints given</div><div>Tissues given</div><div>Card game fun</div><div>Laughing</div><div>Hugging</div><div>Smiles on the way out</div><div>When Friday finally finished. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Xc-O281zQHCMYBW-b87w7gnlgFvloTBIuCLEFkamOUBMJqKskLjbBn0HoUFIVfRm9YDmlhhZ7s-MgwQzLOYQrJwmSubIl6HQRfo-lPZiRWC1kN9-4FC6cgnljvoJdxmr93rOBHXWMP4HYjBlMJTsJan8QgMMj59JoOXzKoNOSVZx9F9ydUpBokkbXBc/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Xc-O281zQHCMYBW-b87w7gnlgFvloTBIuCLEFkamOUBMJqKskLjbBn0HoUFIVfRm9YDmlhhZ7s-MgwQzLOYQrJwmSubIl6HQRfo-lPZiRWC1kN9-4FC6cgnljvoJdxmr93rOBHXWMP4HYjBlMJTsJan8QgMMj59JoOXzKoNOSVZx9F9ydUpBokkbXBc/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-79199047592255920492024-03-14T18:37:00.002-04:002024-03-14T18:37:23.702-04:00Pizza Pie Day: Day 14<p>Order and watch</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IR2PUrqs8fpNrHm9-Llu2tuv8tqIjJDtjBgEDWUmf7yftseNQUFc7kYvY945j5fM8nCXdGs35Dm2vt2uNVVsSN8uVojdo5A7bOCTI2D3Pj0XOBKQCJfZK8DS8iRPnHeXrkXgdofEYshIKHhizD0p-1Sx3AQq9D-OIAvY_BHkTzxnObG0-X6wdSONgn4/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IR2PUrqs8fpNrHm9-Llu2tuv8tqIjJDtjBgEDWUmf7yftseNQUFc7kYvY945j5fM8nCXdGs35Dm2vt2uNVVsSN8uVojdo5A7bOCTI2D3Pj0XOBKQCJfZK8DS8iRPnHeXrkXgdofEYshIKHhizD0p-1Sx3AQq9D-OIAvY_BHkTzxnObG0-X6wdSONgn4/w184-h184/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="184" /></a></div><p>The tracking begins. </p><p>Prep, bake, check</p><p>Then the driver</p><p>drives</p><p>my pies</p><p>perfect pie</p><p>perfect end</p><p>to pie day</p><p><br /></p><p>Isn't it crazy that I can track my pizzas' progress? It's one of those things, and since I can, I will. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLrNlTIlSAZfkNlr4SUviesDTmTDRMLK4EVWIpvwOFsLLeG4mnOST4h2GgCcSUgppO1UgBCUpb6a44459DwCdwxr2NEcUoR5cxL1mfebI80bKBUBiB9BfWZ88LRmPi-ZDz45Htx85EdDrjTFtkexOLqde3mpl1esr6vjoRHpkBfAztwWRQt7wpwJ09qg4/s640/IMG_2385.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="296" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLrNlTIlSAZfkNlr4SUviesDTmTDRMLK4EVWIpvwOFsLLeG4mnOST4h2GgCcSUgppO1UgBCUpb6a44459DwCdwxr2NEcUoR5cxL1mfebI80bKBUBiB9BfWZ88LRmPi-ZDz45Htx85EdDrjTFtkexOLqde3mpl1esr6vjoRHpkBfAztwWRQt7wpwJ09qg4/s320/IMG_2385.PNG" width="148" /></a></div><br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfJZbGof5y4I-C-XtIRHvX9BH57_c6mSm_tCVIFuUQ0_2GCLeTX-Y-UxbklYetxGrjiDifh-6di4vKGq6uWvjH0eqhTftdH3NfgkYUZnbb6B9xiwKqt5mkJu5tGPCjlCvuT_vVbzqoXj_UPkmQ-dq8V7KWOvEcdwSlgZ9xArLXoYmQoCgX1IneiGBiI8/s640/IMG_2389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfJZbGof5y4I-C-XtIRHvX9BH57_c6mSm_tCVIFuUQ0_2GCLeTX-Y-UxbklYetxGrjiDifh-6di4vKGq6uWvjH0eqhTftdH3NfgkYUZnbb6B9xiwKqt5mkJu5tGPCjlCvuT_vVbzqoXj_UPkmQ-dq8V7KWOvEcdwSlgZ9xArLXoYmQoCgX1IneiGBiI8/w243-h182/IMG_2389.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't wait. </td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QEpvqkyra79spiLGESiTi6Sy-ujxnd9CSPQAUYMtgb2yIbUDpyXp3dwiFZEW8d4BUfEdtUYg_cyaA-oyQdFMM1ubJP6ywXUbnBW3rEUre3IKvkq0EONLHT2a-UqF4zf5M4BfqXQApRYV2m6blYMSzi972HNqYNno_Tzh-h0ZLWtqat_ki-bzf7bYLfU/s640/IMG_2388.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QEpvqkyra79spiLGESiTi6Sy-ujxnd9CSPQAUYMtgb2yIbUDpyXp3dwiFZEW8d4BUfEdtUYg_cyaA-oyQdFMM1ubJP6ywXUbnBW3rEUre3IKvkq0EONLHT2a-UqF4zf5M4BfqXQApRYV2m6blYMSzi972HNqYNno_Tzh-h0ZLWtqat_ki-bzf7bYLfU/w182-h243/IMG_2388.jpg" width="182" /></a>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-61511664737736628392024-03-13T21:33:00.000-04:002024-03-13T21:33:14.239-04:00Snowdrops: Day 13<p>Each March, I have my favorite signs of spring, and they are always slice-worthy. One of my favorite signs each year is the snowdrops that pop up in bunches. I trek out to the far back woods behind my house, walk the trail a short way, and start to look. </p><p>These delicate flowers are so simple. Like little bells, they hang with just a few little white petals. The green leaves spring out of the ground like a nest. They are so soft and flowy. In the wind, the blooms bob while the leaves sway. So much movement as light flickers through them. </p><p>I'm always worried I'll miss them. Last year, I only saw a few of the last flowers. Lucky me, this time, I saw several bunches. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRqlke4X9KU1wVkgfHYltp9s21N76o1q3aavlPJpx3b1wAQzqBB0Yf4p8XFKI9FAJZs2T4dbFVEiHrqO5oc2EOfjqwy79VoFQgNEt-AUQr9IouFOkp9nI7NzPnCdFriztvvdqJ8HXkcPv-gJiLnsWG6d0kjlxT59O_GtjY0pOUAymudrTjqot484yxfs/s640/IMG_2371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRqlke4X9KU1wVkgfHYltp9s21N76o1q3aavlPJpx3b1wAQzqBB0Yf4p8XFKI9FAJZs2T4dbFVEiHrqO5oc2EOfjqwy79VoFQgNEt-AUQr9IouFOkp9nI7NzPnCdFriztvvdqJ8HXkcPv-gJiLnsWG6d0kjlxT59O_GtjY0pOUAymudrTjqot484yxfs/s320/IMG_2371.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Seeing these flowers brings me a burst of happiness.<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh76eAg18XFVwSSHQqMyEtKCZNLDF39tsTaKXA0nMBn4BSbtKej3SrLiCY4zYSWTx7jazzHRLYQMGruJAaS2RnFWLyy2tJoXUiIIsIyTqLkGOXMrzPT8yF9cr0rCEz_kHDsQe1_t-rrM_f6y8yw1NBQ0dgJz5wyMpOMoDZs6j22WoPCRFFlDVy9Z3R6O0/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh76eAg18XFVwSSHQqMyEtKCZNLDF39tsTaKXA0nMBn4BSbtKej3SrLiCY4zYSWTx7jazzHRLYQMGruJAaS2RnFWLyy2tJoXUiIIsIyTqLkGOXMrzPT8yF9cr0rCEz_kHDsQe1_t-rrM_f6y8yw1NBQ0dgJz5wyMpOMoDZs6j22WoPCRFFlDVy9Z3R6O0/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-44138522555560283762024-03-12T18:50:00.002-04:002024-03-12T18:50:36.351-04:00Slice-peration: Day 12Today was a day not to even be discussed; just let go and move on. <div><br /></div><div>I knew I would need to replenish myself in some way. </div><div>Dinner helped. </div><div>A walk in the woods helped more. </div><div><br /></div><div>I gathered *slice-peration while I walked, dodging the uneven ground riddled with leaves, sticks, and moss. I saw many signs of spring. I heard the wind, birds, dogs in the distance and trees creaking as they talked to the sky. It was cool but warm at the same time—a perfect moment for a healing walk and many of my favorite things. </div><div><br /></div><div>Afterward, I felt my shoulders sitting lower and my breathing flowing easier. I'm always grateful for the peace I get when I'm outside. </div><div><br /></div><div>*Taking photos for potential slices later this month when I need some inspiration. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybYkTA4gnsZLvhjdY8gCSlayHL5Fb_rkilqZR8ou01OJoQwZvmI34MtiknHF_YD8h-Fwhu_VdFKlVpXrYAvJd8OTbQ2RhV4gssVgcqTO5q0imtHz_fLsiFZNgkvmNTXaxnzVmlkgswAIPd3Ei0Il5njWE-UyzjeV8rXTwSragBXkXlrrlS3h_roj3q0M/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybYkTA4gnsZLvhjdY8gCSlayHL5Fb_rkilqZR8ou01OJoQwZvmI34MtiknHF_YD8h-Fwhu_VdFKlVpXrYAvJd8OTbQ2RhV4gssVgcqTO5q0imtHz_fLsiFZNgkvmNTXaxnzVmlkgswAIPd3Ei0Il5njWE-UyzjeV8rXTwSragBXkXlrrlS3h_roj3q0M/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-17004227930197524252024-03-11T21:00:00.001-04:002024-03-11T21:00:27.236-04:00Salad-Palooza: Day 11<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dgr1fsIBaYIlV6tykTZbFsfXIAJLNwFgZLvb1SSzBnpT6rduLcBCeRy7KRBlep4q-tI5A7YGF5Cc8CZDFdVcD9Tktb0Ixj4yMTI71Tq7bh1Xtn_hn3_OVj27pxv5v2-WXjd6kbNl4-H4pg-6q4AVkssFVmHiEAvd2SGj1ia0VOIwZNiThe8PkEQLQvY/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dgr1fsIBaYIlV6tykTZbFsfXIAJLNwFgZLvb1SSzBnpT6rduLcBCeRy7KRBlep4q-tI5A7YGF5Cc8CZDFdVcD9Tktb0Ixj4yMTI71Tq7bh1Xtn_hn3_OVj27pxv5v2-WXjd6kbNl4-H4pg-6q4AVkssFVmHiEAvd2SGj1ia0VOIwZNiThe8PkEQLQvY/w107-h107/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="107" /></a></div>I am a mostly plant-based eater. One way I care for myself is by making wonderful, full-of-flavor food that is mostly for just me. Over the weekend, I had three salads I really wanted to make. My FYP (for you page) has been full of great dinner-worthy salads. I couldn't decide on just one, so I prepped as much as possible over the weekend, hoping to pull it all off by Monday. <p></p><p>After a long day, I threw in the sweet potato and carrot mixture I'd seasoned up yesterday. Then, I worked on shredding a bunch of brussel sprouts and some red cabbage. Gotta love my food processor, the true MVP. I already had some dressing mixed up; yummy tahini, date, and orange juice blend of ingredients. I also already had the grains and lentils ready, so it would all come together quickly. </p><p>In no particular order:</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YHJmo0sKi30aiE_pXhzAJ2vRDIfb49Jp/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXtjlpJtgDac4vbU2jQ34g5h_W-g6i6I0DKCKS8mNCwMehmz-hfphn6ku-RD9TP8IpEICUHX6Kh7dn2p6U1SF8ECZX3Ll2fQx-2kcY9OlyRIZ2COPXOOeOmEu4JKGKjVnZjz7tuWuighTuvFeTHd5DX6ivYn_0TLQikBQMM2FqF_fDH8uGRuGEwgFwto/s320/IMG_2368.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YHJmo0sKi30aiE_pXhzAJ2vRDIfb49Jp/view?usp=sharing">Cumin Roasted Carrot and Brussel Sprout Salad</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUohhVgIYZExitOWD-ws3nxGlaxPmtklJNz8240QDLz-nNQSTfEvsEyyL0qnpdMgtssE0bCHnnQOModDJRsfw8jpUC0yFBZwEK0TV4Idv6cpKwdzm30vTt2t6VFPCRLqOcstwFcwYoDcxJCONXUkKLLzPbIZkA60jQcyra1lctLX4YKW6MtP2baVgDMAk/s640/IMG_2369.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUohhVgIYZExitOWD-ws3nxGlaxPmtklJNz8240QDLz-nNQSTfEvsEyyL0qnpdMgtssE0bCHnnQOModDJRsfw8jpUC0yFBZwEK0TV4Idv6cpKwdzm30vTt2t6VFPCRLqOcstwFcwYoDcxJCONXUkKLLzPbIZkA60jQcyra1lctLX4YKW6MtP2baVgDMAk/s320/IMG_2369.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GRZK1yjuCTkGzjpaOkHMEyQPctWm_sD-/view?usp=sharing">Parsley Chickpea Veggie Salad</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflAmHxC8Pl-QfeYX4YiAjGmfv4aWV41B1iJdYKo-1ZosW7XiUT50BOMtuRBzTzsyhDe4I6TAjLSnuZAyDHrwtMDZKm6HaQllZpCyz5oEGYWyYS4dJzHS0F_RZkQcst3G2eYhtlOOrREA01O5swps3VU7Jp5GklLvYsNJb4ZIX3jHzwU4UEKNMoDF73oQ/s640/IMG_2370.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflAmHxC8Pl-QfeYX4YiAjGmfv4aWV41B1iJdYKo-1ZosW7XiUT50BOMtuRBzTzsyhDe4I6TAjLSnuZAyDHrwtMDZKm6HaQllZpCyz5oEGYWyYS4dJzHS0F_RZkQcst3G2eYhtlOOrREA01O5swps3VU7Jp5GklLvYsNJb4ZIX3jHzwU4UEKNMoDF73oQ/s320/IMG_2370.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cRMNInLyMg6cekPMZ_QNz3uGIRgmCSqj/view?usp=sharing">Southwest Bean and Quinoa Salad</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>This was dinner and will be my lunch all week long. The bean salad is fantastic with chips. The brussel sprout salad would be amazing in a wrap. The parsley chickpea salad is just so fresh and full of texture; it's a winner. I love eating a plate of salad with a variety of flavors. Each one was so unique and filling. </p><p>Recipes are linked in the captions for each photo. I'm not 100% sure the links will work, but I thought it was worth a shot. </p><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-9032832040252034342024-03-10T22:07:00.002-04:002024-03-10T22:07:22.957-04:00Couch Cuddles: Day 10<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpIUvvzo4LPodYjoeLTjNlYJv4IpwC7-tyJR1FJBr3_bFesfwdIt3aIrsv4N_J9TgmIT_CYpYvml8B4StT7gqPwHBFYOjX0aip_0YLmyWFfTFuNiT6RsbdEIeyMfZyNFLW5-OxFLdXeFLrvao133rnHhQiaxyTmi3U8MHj4jYK8lhDwsJQDY0-3PJLOs/s640/IMG_2300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpIUvvzo4LPodYjoeLTjNlYJv4IpwC7-tyJR1FJBr3_bFesfwdIt3aIrsv4N_J9TgmIT_CYpYvml8B4StT7gqPwHBFYOjX0aip_0YLmyWFfTFuNiT6RsbdEIeyMfZyNFLW5-OxFLdXeFLrvao133rnHhQiaxyTmi3U8MHj4jYK8lhDwsJQDY0-3PJLOs/s320/IMG_2300.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Willow and Walnut</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>We were fortunate to welcome two new puppies into our home in late November. They are King Charles Cavaliers, and they are such a pair. Willow is a mixture of grey, black, tan, and white, while Walnut is almost entirely ruby brown, aside from some white patches here and there. Both are cuddly and sweet. They are true lap dogs when they aren't running full tilt through the backyard or tearing around the couch in circles chasing each other. Just like siblings, when one has something, the other wants it, and half the time, we are trying to figure out what they have. Both love to find a good stick or piece of bark to taunt each other with. I love their silly personalities and enjoyed several couch cuddles today between busy Sunday responsibilities. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57AQjBExVuH2qK1E-3PVLWnowz5_JKuvM04OJzfb5Ke5DL9X36PP60HVWDocZ6dcJf6wPDLz0iAlpBHsosnjXY8dRxxcu997vDsEUFQuV6eviwnFz1xM7idC4F0AuNRFRW9GfG1fRC7o1QcRxQ5Q5JyLfJM0XuHOvJmJne68HBckvkSZkS4YwdEiKsPE/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57AQjBExVuH2qK1E-3PVLWnowz5_JKuvM04OJzfb5Ke5DL9X36PP60HVWDocZ6dcJf6wPDLz0iAlpBHsosnjXY8dRxxcu997vDsEUFQuV6eviwnFz1xM7idC4F0AuNRFRW9GfG1fRC7o1QcRxQ5Q5JyLfJM0XuHOvJmJne68HBckvkSZkS4YwdEiKsPE/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-14694146641581607262024-03-09T20:03:00.000-05:002024-03-09T20:03:02.938-05:00PT from Home: Day 9<p>I recently finished a round of physical therapy for a shoulder injury. My "at home" exercises were minimal, but we came up with a few more in my last two visits to beef up my ability to strengthen while I await an MRI. I have a couple of stretchy bands, but I wanted to set up a space for myself to work specifically on my shoulder strength. So, I dusted off the old Total Gym we bought about five years ago and made a small area for myself. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDu6VmgNUeX6dzu-YCDXOOH_YB027zaeC22Kv6S7XWYyOIE1phbo1GlXUVd_itHImFZ4GvRRuCfc8kJCgQSb73WT0oOCvSIw2R_jUJH7TUhVIj131d9L57Y5VLrB_WXt-kLa-LbNouOfRWhnIFRYla5F_POkDF7Bg4vDQ_jnWlQrxHC5na9-uhXCA2LHo/s640/IMG_2364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDu6VmgNUeX6dzu-YCDXOOH_YB027zaeC22Kv6S7XWYyOIE1phbo1GlXUVd_itHImFZ4GvRRuCfc8kJCgQSb73WT0oOCvSIw2R_jUJH7TUhVIj131d9L57Y5VLrB_WXt-kLa-LbNouOfRWhnIFRYla5F_POkDF7Bg4vDQ_jnWlQrxHC5na9-uhXCA2LHo/s320/IMG_2364.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was a productive day, cleaning up this corner in preparation for some shoulder and back strengthening. I'm hoping I can use this space every day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wNWjNO4Q5pdoeB7aibHboDiO25MEO_ayoDtMs94IlXUBOuIiDkbobt0FIloXHhPzCCtprzkWm3o98YQgJhhMDZUCghfnapDQey6ulr470ZuoThgtRnkBCjh9wsfHJZKH1jHIGrU64yOCML9fzd_CQO4s7XEaLENFQ5NyaRD6Xj1vk8-f2dg3_nTIKO4/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wNWjNO4Q5pdoeB7aibHboDiO25MEO_ayoDtMs94IlXUBOuIiDkbobt0FIloXHhPzCCtprzkWm3o98YQgJhhMDZUCghfnapDQey6ulr470ZuoThgtRnkBCjh9wsfHJZKH1jHIGrU64yOCML9fzd_CQO4s7XEaLENFQ5NyaRD6Xj1vk8-f2dg3_nTIKO4/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-46451702218525265192024-03-08T20:06:00.002-05:002024-03-08T20:07:13.405-05:00Field Trip: Day 8Today was fantastic. <br /><br /><br />February was a long month. Each day with seventh graders was challenging. I could count on one hand the number of days when I left school feeling like I had some energy left, maybe even some feelings of effectiveness. Most days lately have felt like a circus, trying to keep the peace while also trying to teach. <br />March began, and I had some hope things would settle down. Even if they didn't, today brought some goodness and made up for a lot of the chaos of middle school. We had a field trip, and it was fantastic.<br />A large venue in a nearby city was hosting <a href="https://www.stepafrika.org/">Step Afrika</a>, which, as the description states, is a "step tradition of audience participation and closes with a complex, polyrhythmic percussive symphony that brings audiences to their feet." <br />We were definitely up on our feet, clapping, stomping, and interacting with great performers. It was a great experience for my students, and so many of them fully embraced the energy and participated. I will focus on those who took it as an opportunity to embrace performance and culture. I left feeling quite revitalized and hopeful. <br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBsqSxkMG3wV1TVjk_wOU8Ja9PCKW52C8LI_XKWmKmfFOE9fIRhwUcD7ocxAf-qM7mC40AZGqwI6ds5zjXhZLLCeeBeG-CRxXLVP_ajRabUiy9wJ2Wg2NRf7xfgJmrS1Cf8QSqJ8yQRau2fATVzcO4M-FzraGIgUaDHhkRnWSB06e7RX9gW1ZBsef3CE/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBsqSxkMG3wV1TVjk_wOU8Ja9PCKW52C8LI_XKWmKmfFOE9fIRhwUcD7ocxAf-qM7mC40AZGqwI6ds5zjXhZLLCeeBeG-CRxXLVP_ajRabUiy9wJ2Wg2NRf7xfgJmrS1Cf8QSqJ8yQRau2fATVzcO4M-FzraGIgUaDHhkRnWSB06e7RX9gW1ZBsef3CE/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-86566056341134901862024-03-07T21:50:00.001-05:002024-03-07T21:50:03.860-05:00White Lie: Day 7<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvIqiUCgAs8ULZfgXZyMLNXx66TUxjetKoKXulP1f8g0iPPE6C9mkaSZxyI94fMs7UOoHDZwaDlBJZQ5GOrVG0Xt-EH16_Ehg7iGnDzMZQtGNdlpoOG0yzvIGVHTVVr43eVtVhVgZvDtaxddzFkOq86RgjtoqaaAhaT5CvZwkLdskYbz4mx406oB-88Ks/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="103" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvIqiUCgAs8ULZfgXZyMLNXx66TUxjetKoKXulP1f8g0iPPE6C9mkaSZxyI94fMs7UOoHDZwaDlBJZQ5GOrVG0Xt-EH16_Ehg7iGnDzMZQtGNdlpoOG0yzvIGVHTVVr43eVtVhVgZvDtaxddzFkOq86RgjtoqaaAhaT5CvZwkLdskYbz4mx406oB-88Ks/w103-h103/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="103" /></a></div>It's March, meaning most schools across the country celebrate "March is Reading Month" in many different ways. One way my school is trying to inspire excitement around reading month is with spirit days across the month. We have Pajama Day (snuggle up with a book), Read a Shirt Day (wear a shirt with words), and today, we had White Lie Day. This is when students wear a white shirt (or a piece of paper taped to their shirt) with a white lie. I saw all kinds of silly ones today. <p></p><p>For instance:</p><p>"I have perfect attendance."</p><p>"I'm the tallest one in my class."</p><p>"I'm a morning person."</p><p>"I'm quiet."</p><p>I thought I'd put a white lie on my shirt that is truly untrue for me and might inspire conversations about writing as well as reading. </p><p>It's a phrase I hear often from twelve and thirteen-year-old students and work to change. Many of them are still finding their way through adolescence, and their moods often get in their way. Today, I got a few laughs and eye rolls from my students. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDulPQ9QKlW6i4HaCWBgR0dF0H4ZKv8VkI3f4W7N8eAdYRJrjC6G8rlLRItzMDwjykBTcj9sQs3uhxVG6HwYqhfEp_iGJ1Qfj78E7_mMaRv0QJaBte28ET6qBUpcFue2UxQm7iJ7yc3qcgZL-8flH5l1Xhden3gW6CACIrWLMH16w4Qsp83qblrH8MBw/s640/IMG_2358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDulPQ9QKlW6i4HaCWBgR0dF0H4ZKv8VkI3f4W7N8eAdYRJrjC6G8rlLRItzMDwjykBTcj9sQs3uhxVG6HwYqhfEp_iGJ1Qfj78E7_mMaRv0QJaBte28ET6qBUpcFue2UxQm7iJ7yc3qcgZL-8flH5l1Xhden3gW6CACIrWLMH16w4Qsp83qblrH8MBw/s320/IMG_2358.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made an attempt at a small orange slice. T-shirt writing is tricky. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-57688377578784329832024-03-06T16:44:00.003-05:002024-03-06T16:44:22.002-05:00Pep Talk Fun: Day 6<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1XUpqWgeNrQorgkQBzD7DDYvailOAC_oJ2umeZi8pWZR9YlzNlYei-hm5xhl_ITU2Drdz-k36AiGa4CeCag46qCooi4-V5NcaXQlfUOWbsjkhUFa-71YzDZ-XTKuqX4FXJ5j-YIXTLcLwAvypuedWp2031525otXbIawxXlsyRaS-Q2oV8oNg7JPXxZ0/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1XUpqWgeNrQorgkQBzD7DDYvailOAC_oJ2umeZi8pWZR9YlzNlYei-hm5xhl_ITU2Drdz-k36AiGa4CeCag46qCooi4-V5NcaXQlfUOWbsjkhUFa-71YzDZ-XTKuqX4FXJ5j-YIXTLcLwAvypuedWp2031525otXbIawxXlsyRaS-Q2oV8oNg7JPXxZ0/w86-h86/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="86" /></a></div>Today was an early release day for students, so teachers had meetings for the last couple of hours. To start us off, my principal passed out a chart titled "Pep Talk Generator." I hadn't ever seen this before but was intrigued immediately. We partnered up and walked around giving each other pep talks like:<p></p><p><br /></p><p>Girl--your DNA--is a rainbow factory--that's just science.</p><p>Champ. Everything you do--raises the roof--that's a fact. </p><p>Know this--the essential you--just shimmers--period.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpRSUfhKPL1AomSJ8VQ_a9Xc16kqA1Hs6Ot670cbEVMSG4bCPlnmiD1eg_76gkWli0sb2cQxNdyznhHd4ZXFq1QB_4N5v_ayLyprLe2mVUOazRShqiuoj4xOrlQnuzuBTj_fkDtwoiYqPBCC5dP4k2cvkQakIO-vzDJ9KYk5K7U7ig33UQbIKigxXe30/s1573/pep%20talk%20generator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1573" data-original-width="1287" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpRSUfhKPL1AomSJ8VQ_a9Xc16kqA1Hs6Ot670cbEVMSG4bCPlnmiD1eg_76gkWli0sb2cQxNdyznhHd4ZXFq1QB_4N5v_ayLyprLe2mVUOazRShqiuoj4xOrlQnuzuBTj_fkDtwoiYqPBCC5dP4k2cvkQakIO-vzDJ9KYk5K7U7ig33UQbIKigxXe30/w343-h419/pep%20talk%20generator.jpg" width="343" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's an example of what we used. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Meetings come and go, and most are not very memorable. However, this one started great. Any meeting where I can start off laughing is a better meeting overall. </p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-53647679632913259322024-03-05T19:00:00.001-05:002024-03-05T19:00:24.316-05:00Kids Mess Up: Day 5<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMUZMx8_0IypWKULqRF_S3R5WESUUmjUUsKHbGAJ4xd8Lvd0PERuag4YZkVo1UoXaogTe55tRY0b4KDkg4WKlpBme9NT-Oxt2-Ien1sjw4Wdy_HzO4OjUZX1ZRwK6rd88ZvSxkhjOIGBKj_FqeFY4SzqBpPZPN_G7q5JYbvjXRXb89Fne86OsVFBQYwg/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMUZMx8_0IypWKULqRF_S3R5WESUUmjUUsKHbGAJ4xd8Lvd0PERuag4YZkVo1UoXaogTe55tRY0b4KDkg4WKlpBme9NT-Oxt2-Ien1sjw4Wdy_HzO4OjUZX1ZRwK6rd88ZvSxkhjOIGBKj_FqeFY4SzqBpPZPN_G7q5JYbvjXRXb89Fne86OsVFBQYwg/w118-h118/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="118" /></a></div><br />It was another busy morning. I often start my day with several students popping in and out within a minute or two of my arrival. Most of the time, they look to see who is already there; other times, they want to talk to me. <p></p><p>I have ten to twelve regulars who are a mix of former students, current students, and soon-to-be students. They hang out on my couch, laugh, giggle, and talk about their day, usually with a heavy dose of teenage angst. I give out side hugs, smiles, and advice when asked. It's always an excellent way to start the day. </p><p>I don't have a first-hour class, so I was asked to cover a sixth-grade class without a sub on this particular day. I'd like to have closed up my room, but students were still streaming in and out, getting their books or materials for classes that live in my classroom. Instead of locking up, I left and walked down a few hallways to the other classroom so I would arrive on time. </p><p>First hour came and went, and I was returning to my classroom. I walked in to find this:</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxnkvDq1m6QvX8JEKJog-YCLOl6YjVzapVvpX239_COw48f9tLxNvFnGERxotC-cklpCiQDv9xaaogWCMLB4sOPdUR9IC_hnve_LCERMQHD0xoTnhAlCBUWsA-bzdYxfpu9FpOQ0-f3GLy6G0ewv5YpMZb9Mv2DG3PER98xPo1Bf2wqKlKtwkMB4MB7w/s2016/IMG_2351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxnkvDq1m6QvX8JEKJog-YCLOl6YjVzapVvpX239_COw48f9tLxNvFnGERxotC-cklpCiQDv9xaaogWCMLB4sOPdUR9IC_hnve_LCERMQHD0xoTnhAlCBUWsA-bzdYxfpu9FpOQ0-f3GLy6G0ewv5YpMZb9Mv2DG3PER98xPo1Bf2wqKlKtwkMB4MB7w/s320/IMG_2351.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My end table that is next to my couch.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It was a head shaker. I wondered if any students would come to talk to me about it, but none have. It's a bummer but fixable. I hope we can determine what happened so a conversation can occur. Luckily, it was a thrift find and doesn't hold sentimental value. Many of my students love using that table for a workspace, so they are the ones losing out. I think the kids themselves will be the ones who get to the bottom of this mystery. </p><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-58016970779749474952024-03-04T19:10:00.003-05:002024-03-04T19:12:32.055-05:00Game Changer-oo: Day 4<p>Last Friday started off bustling. We had house meetings (we use the <a href="https://ronclarkacademy.com/houses/">Ron Clark Academy model</a>) straight away, and my group was planning to play card games together. I was gathering materials, filling my coffee cup, and giving directions with my face and head for my group to follow. Nukumori, my group's name, began congregating, ready to go to our larger shared space. </p><p>The center of our school has a big circle. The shared space is in one of the central rooms. I rounded the side of the circle, key card in hand, to be met with a colleague saying one thing while also forcing a smile. I walked into the room to find tables full of books, furniture piled, and boxes of printers waiting to be set up. It had been used for temporary storage...again. This was going to fail for our game activity. We quickly decided hallway games would have to do. It turned out great; kids played Crazy 8's, Go Fish, Euchre, and War. The groups varied, including multi-age and several sizes. Partners, groups of four, and large groups created a loud hum of cooperation and joy. </p><p>One planned foiled turned into a fun way to start the day. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixoatOdAedgniZ7vlBViirht6L1rvHRhbUw8spE9WQc2NFUSTMiFBxB4V2dU8edMbH0zuB0qvdzdxAta-9vJmNqHzgwjio6ue9zHpjf4UkXD4-9XArAmTjVBV016TGQUwF9CnCZrqUHyfiQHJbMSUx6ojSg9I4rZliTJhA6V-Ix28x33JoQQJkeaDKuuM/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixoatOdAedgniZ7vlBViirht6L1rvHRhbUw8spE9WQc2NFUSTMiFBxB4V2dU8edMbH0zuB0qvdzdxAta-9vJmNqHzgwjio6ue9zHpjf4UkXD4-9XArAmTjVBV016TGQUwF9CnCZrqUHyfiQHJbMSUx6ojSg9I4rZliTJhA6V-Ix28x33JoQQJkeaDKuuM/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-67123655321110914222024-03-03T20:33:00.003-05:002024-03-03T20:33:37.146-05:00Pizza Sunday: Day 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZdTCgTWhax4IORkSix1U1yF5PH2uLveA8eRL1Gff5dx74gABfmkJ26gta6Zu5MlSDOq0jfxkT-UygkNfJdsaL6jOSegB-aOo80jn2x1hWkPeGkAftutoDywwIz22cTqXZ6tMldDY88odZxTDkPEK6kGIU1hj-oWAgs85BPd27yha9xESETC88uInSGo/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZdTCgTWhax4IORkSix1U1yF5PH2uLveA8eRL1Gff5dx74gABfmkJ26gta6Zu5MlSDOq0jfxkT-UygkNfJdsaL6jOSegB-aOo80jn2x1hWkPeGkAftutoDywwIz22cTqXZ6tMldDY88odZxTDkPEK6kGIU1hj-oWAgs85BPd27yha9xESETC88uInSGo/w104-h104/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="104" /></a></div><br />We watched a lot of football this past season. In particular, the Detroit Lions. It was fun to get huddled around the TV and cheer them on. With each passing game, my game-day food got better and better. I found a Rhodes Rolls <a href="https://rhodesbakenserv.com/sheet-pan-pizza/">pizza recipe</a> in my search for variety and comfort. I have since changed it to be more of a deep-dish style pizza, becoming a Sunday staple. <div><br /></div><div>Today was no different. This morning, I started my dough on the counter to thaw and rise. Olive oil gave it an excellent gloss, and my favorite part came this afternoon when I punched all the dough down. Putting the sauce, toppings, and cheese onto the soft dough, it went into the oven. After about thirty minutes, the top was crusty, and the edges golden brown. I don't actually eat this pizza; I made a dairy and meat-free version for myself. However, I am always so excited by how the cheesy one looks. My family loves how it tastes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwOH2iD09e-3kX5TJ0AZkKQ_CtErjs88B0wAnlGa-CFvAwJmjlvpE-yjMBdGhOgXc_sZic8u4GlINWjJaisG-ik5zrsT7lyK8INrk97IVsHXwed-av_DijDgshyfKTrIVB0kDNZgG0bbY4sM4c4UblpHdDfnTfoGq3inJaqlcP9rzwusB5iryLGmZoAs/s2856/IMG_0451.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2856" data-original-width="2142" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwOH2iD09e-3kX5TJ0AZkKQ_CtErjs88B0wAnlGa-CFvAwJmjlvpE-yjMBdGhOgXc_sZic8u4GlINWjJaisG-ik5zrsT7lyK8INrk97IVsHXwed-av_DijDgshyfKTrIVB0kDNZgG0bbY4sM4c4UblpHdDfnTfoGq3inJaqlcP9rzwusB5iryLGmZoAs/s320/IMG_0451.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How the yellow peppers are baked into that cheese makes it look like focaccia bread. </div><br /><div><br /></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-61455623293647312792024-03-02T21:19:00.005-05:002024-03-02T21:24:25.323-05:00NYT Word Puzzlers: Day 2<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgIxJrmggxsdSHT5tvg7kCswn6gqndNSZN1temy4GvpF9sMlB45bu3fgqQrkdeXhAa6Ni9FLIYhu6IHPEDFAsl3St3aiifbBAA3dqF9ReA5yDQACD48obQri-K7u-CrXtOrtYodV1aylE1G3aHd5StkTJE9gMfExJOr8Kxy2VIOhKwj-HqkaifJLDHUlok" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><br /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgIxJrmggxsdSHT5tvg7kCswn6gqndNSZN1temy4GvpF9sMlB45bu3fgqQrkdeXhAa6Ni9FLIYhu6IHPEDFAsl3St3aiifbBAA3dqF9ReA5yDQACD48obQri-K7u-CrXtOrtYodV1aylE1G3aHd5StkTJE9gMfExJOr8Kxy2VIOhKwj-HqkaifJLDHUlok" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMSofx-vnZTsrQjAmkKWNuSddlUKA_ii_Pw4gQmDrinvhQEoanDmEd-s3sX6sOqI1p_vliJ0NISGU53qK-vtsh_lZv2-mrwvbCXT3y6l17resq16Q_gyX3IwMqbWDPNIgRnarTFAtoAP33cjmLv9IA0_F9n0d36xVvyEgREaTsQojWFV34TzacUPsQjhY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMSofx-vnZTsrQjAmkKWNuSddlUKA_ii_Pw4gQmDrinvhQEoanDmEd-s3sX6sOqI1p_vliJ0NISGU53qK-vtsh_lZv2-mrwvbCXT3y6l17resq16Q_gyX3IwMqbWDPNIgRnarTFAtoAP33cjmLv9IA0_F9n0d36xVvyEgREaTsQojWFV34TzacUPsQjhY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgle4paTYM91vlB-JSBZGAEvw6mzZ0nycEhb9nlvAFBb4TsenKOlhihmagMQPT8e7jYmGbWvzmiKy7l-j7Pp9rmV51u_plm7_XFqh0Ns0Wreyv732rCW5wdYzXfgHM1qGP4-HECVm9SX8dYgyB9B23MYK8yjTfJQapTztZ1ddyMyCg8k4Qd50IysAi_ZVQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="752" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgle4paTYM91vlB-JSBZGAEvw6mzZ0nycEhb9nlvAFBb4TsenKOlhihmagMQPT8e7jYmGbWvzmiKy7l-j7Pp9rmV51u_plm7_XFqh0Ns0Wreyv732rCW5wdYzXfgHM1qGP4-HECVm9SX8dYgyB9B23MYK8yjTfJQapTztZ1ddyMyCg8k4Qd50IysAi_ZVQ" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMSofx-vnZTsrQjAmkKWNuSddlUKA_ii_Pw4gQmDrinvhQEoanDmEd-s3sX6sOqI1p_vliJ0NISGU53qK-vtsh_lZv2-mrwvbCXT3y6l17resq16Q_gyX3IwMqbWDPNIgRnarTFAtoAP33cjmLv9IA0_F9n0d36xVvyEgREaTsQojWFV34TzacUPsQjhY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="207" data-original-width="233" height="89" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMSofx-vnZTsrQjAmkKWNuSddlUKA_ii_Pw4gQmDrinvhQEoanDmEd-s3sX6sOqI1p_vliJ0NISGU53qK-vtsh_lZv2-mrwvbCXT3y6l17resq16Q_gyX3IwMqbWDPNIgRnarTFAtoAP33cjmLv9IA0_F9n0d36xVvyEgREaTsQojWFV34TzacUPsQjhY=w100-h89" width="100" /></a></div></div><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span>I do the Wordle, Connections, and the Mini Crossword from the New York Times daily. It's something I look forward to, and it is also a friendly competition between my husband, our youngest, and me. We sometimes will help each other, depending on how desperate we are. But more often, we say things like, "Did you do the mini yet?" or "Did you get Connections?"<br />Connections, the puzzle of 16 words that fall into four categories of sorts, has been borderline silly. Some of the categories have left us all scratching our heads.<div> <br />I felt very validated in my frustration when I started seeing videos from someone on TikTok named adamjohn (@adamj0hn20). <br /><br />He is much more frustrated with the NYT puzzles than I was, but the issues he was having were similar to mine. For instance, a category that is animals spelled backward seems desperate. Like Adam, I began to question those who determined the direction of these puzzles. Then, I realized I could play and enjoy when I win and move on when I lose. Do I really care that much? I mean, for a moment, I do. Then, I move on with my day. <br /><br />If you are a NYT word game player, check out his videos. They are good for a laugh. <div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn5ddsffCjTWi7D1zynflBIWaZ5FLbPFwhYEtvSGBxwPFip6tPiLNZwDpKSaYCRX3jNyTMSptHoqFBtrNKcvLTiwBMzWrOknacK_v3-_6oXOdLSagGutJyPtV0Ib_zNE7dqmzjWYBf_vlcKhidt-opA3Vgqpvtc6nxJKqkCOfbYzBVx34mzWOfPWJlCJo/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn5ddsffCjTWi7D1zynflBIWaZ5FLbPFwhYEtvSGBxwPFip6tPiLNZwDpKSaYCRX3jNyTMSptHoqFBtrNKcvLTiwBMzWrOknacK_v3-_6oXOdLSagGutJyPtV0Ib_zNE7dqmzjWYBf_vlcKhidt-opA3Vgqpvtc6nxJKqkCOfbYzBVx34mzWOfPWJlCJo/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-40345433791902540362024-03-01T17:01:00.002-05:002024-03-01T17:01:52.726-05:00The Season of Sickness: Day 1<p>I'm just over here</p><p>holding my breath.</p><p>I hear the sniffs.</p><p>I hold my breath.</p><p>You cough.</p><p>I hold my breath.</p><p>Throat clearing to a beat</p><p>I hold my breath,</p><p>With hope, maybe</p><p>My breath holding</p><p>will allow my escape.</p><p><br /></p><p>Two of the four of us are sick, and I'm over here trying to keep that number from growing. I know escaping illness, when it is permeating your space, can be challenging. However, I'd like to somehow dodge this virus that has its grip on my husband and youngest. They both sound awful, so miserable and tired. </p><p>I'll continue as many immunity-boosting methods as possible while throwing boxes of tissues and decongestants from a safe distance. Are you staying healthy during this season of sickness?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_rGVMHv8KgPF2hG8Rt_pt_AZN3b0hyphenhyphenOJlG1j-mhyakNqZeQ0HkFcUCyP0ZDm9zTEXiR7wDFZRpSh8GUKUL5Qe0ciotqmZe5wYCesnWxtWTjTh4rFmRC_oe2p4wuFzQCBc79uk5vZKGrloG-eeig_c6rQBim0cPl_bb8asPexlvw29_jLOaWceKbakuE/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_rGVMHv8KgPF2hG8Rt_pt_AZN3b0hyphenhyphenOJlG1j-mhyakNqZeQ0HkFcUCyP0ZDm9zTEXiR7wDFZRpSh8GUKUL5Qe0ciotqmZe5wYCesnWxtWTjTh4rFmRC_oe2p4wuFzQCBc79uk5vZKGrloG-eeig_c6rQBim0cPl_bb8asPexlvw29_jLOaWceKbakuE/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-80038731224958787702023-05-30T20:30:00.003-04:002023-05-30T20:30:50.405-04:00My Inner BeatrixI've said before I want to be Beatrix Potter when I grow up. For as long as I can remember, I've longed for pet ducks, bunnies, and acres of land to paint or portray with words. One of the few movies/shows we played on DVD for my son when he was four years old. <div>Down the hall, the seventh-grade science teacher has been incubating duck eggs. I've checked on them, wondering and waiting if they will hatch. We've held the light up to them, checking fullness. Over the weekend, he sent these photos out to all staff. </div><div>We had three babies!<br /><div><img alt="" id="id_169_6a19_9bf9_8c73" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/drive-viewer/AFGJ81r6xNCVMo4BHCwsQbjySLw3uch54P9eA6q0F-8wmx8_xCL-0lt1K6DK5T4Cg4YT6StmsZgGwsUQ5km7jpz5nyea2s0KeA" style="height: auto; width: 392px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br /><br /><img alt="" id="id_63d_6876_44d_dd92" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/drive-viewer/AFGJ81r0S5cp90TUUU7gvxsQpAF2Wf5lCxmwKz8wJWJj-juKbb2vxOitCypMQPGuIogc8T4Iru6-r9CCxdgYBAgNObCBZMy9" style="height: auto; width: 392px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div><div>By the end of the day today, there were six! I spent a long time at the end of the day holding the four that had been hatched for more than a couple days. Two of them were still fluffing and gaining strength. Their little bills were nibbling and peeping. I was instantly in love and trying to imagine a pond in my backyard and waddling on summer days. </div><div>Reality tells me now is not the time, so I'll enjoy the ducklings and cuddle them in between classes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJn2OBcPFCb_mnXaTcV6msDnsmo6jXqj-RI-E7DVjLEr5FrovpF3h8iHrDkatTIwOWkeXdruAiHF5mJBV7OqszhUOsMFEjGPZmk8qhAk67gi4GHU1CZyqnHgSB56gYd17mit0zsYAkpBST3PW2iIkCEnyX47gFnCdGLg9cKz3u4Nn54O37dKf9oEuv/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJn2OBcPFCb_mnXaTcV6msDnsmo6jXqj-RI-E7DVjLEr5FrovpF3h8iHrDkatTIwOWkeXdruAiHF5mJBV7OqszhUOsMFEjGPZmk8qhAk67gi4GHU1CZyqnHgSB56gYd17mit0zsYAkpBST3PW2iIkCEnyX47gFnCdGLg9cKz3u4Nn54O37dKf9oEuv/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-57830353911598560322023-05-23T19:57:00.001-04:002023-05-23T19:57:33.808-04:00Two GoalsAs the school year winds down, I am considering how I can begin to focus on my own wellness. I do many things well, and some are just non-existent. <div>I had a birthday two days ago, and one of my gifts was a bullet journal. Nothing too fancy. I did add two goals inside--reading and water. </div><div>I'm starting with increments. Reading for enjoyment. When accomplished, I color in a little box.</div><div>Sixteen ounces of water counts as a box filled in too. I can only go up from here. </div><div>These two things might seem small, but they are two areas I really struggle to pay attention to. I also know each is important. Therefore, if I get to color in a box each day I accomplish these two simple goals, it is a start. </div><div>For all the other things, I'll get there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhxdNx71e-l0s8oy0DatoRmkrGbA929OXkIHm30C-s3tOWzXK9UuAaKMSLovqUNQ91CEYApccjzvK_WPpM6JsHHvwWHYr-wxCoD5l0mUTNf9cSnpgaZv9BPCqUDKmUbrEe_YqrTSvdwQsY6S9pwpKpfpWuUIVZM_9oeyqOYgZnNfWYgtlTZ_zUeKi/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600%20(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhxdNx71e-l0s8oy0DatoRmkrGbA929OXkIHm30C-s3tOWzXK9UuAaKMSLovqUNQ91CEYApccjzvK_WPpM6JsHHvwWHYr-wxCoD5l0mUTNf9cSnpgaZv9BPCqUDKmUbrEe_YqrTSvdwQsY6S9pwpKpfpWuUIVZM_9oeyqOYgZnNfWYgtlTZ_zUeKi/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600%20(1).png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-10375512334491009712023-05-16T19:14:00.002-04:002023-05-16T19:14:59.401-04:00Field Trip!Today, my seventh graders went on a field trip to an alligator sanctuary. We met gators named Big Daddy, TikTok, Godzilla, Tom, and Spot, among many others. The kids learned all kinds of interesting facts about what a sanctuary does and how the animals survive in a climate so different from their own. <div>There were young gators and old. The sanctuary was divided into different "schools" based on their age groups. We visited the preschool and kindergarten classes of gators and the middle school and high schoolers. It was a great day overall. The weather was perfect. Not too hot and not too cold. The kids were awesome, and we all ended up at a local park for lunch afterward for food and fun. </div><div><br /></div><div><img alt="" id="id_24ee_60ef_5ab5_e69c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/drive-viewer/AFGJ81qb5UwOU9vyhTsKCObj6dpYqBfpO31WnXvuICfAAjvVGhQt242GgyzcHDo_qt34FHPppcKE7wUYCVsHZ24Fz-kE_SKsQQ" style="height: auto; width: 392px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br /><br /><img alt="" id="id_db4f_f84a_b80c_abf6" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/drive-viewer/AFGJ81oZJD1NcuvU5KL7EcyDQWc6TnU1nq14pB6VmFOJ5pc14mzqRVP5vO7f6UCWhqhsSP59U4eHGGlPeA6HoyR_U3L0jzubvg" style="height: auto; width: 392px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiy0Yci1GoK9r5WbZWJZGY1ah0a9aZhlj_GJoWxvilQExVa9FigPmT-VNX1hmczH-zQdgZNZsDlqid-5a35Eo9ErKqIAzyjR2uRuFO3ZVtE_MOlZ8TmCqy6j_9tCHZOj2yYopTZLdfNIjeF7-YUN7z0sIuAKvzUW9coIgrl0hCaep7KTLWzwoenuy/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiy0Yci1GoK9r5WbZWJZGY1ah0a9aZhlj_GJoWxvilQExVa9FigPmT-VNX1hmczH-zQdgZNZsDlqid-5a35Eo9ErKqIAzyjR2uRuFO3ZVtE_MOlZ8TmCqy6j_9tCHZOj2yYopTZLdfNIjeF7-YUN7z0sIuAKvzUW9coIgrl0hCaep7KTLWzwoenuy/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-20089969763263383642023-05-09T17:44:00.000-04:002023-05-09T17:44:01.805-04:00Good Plants<p> I got home early today. Theatre is over for the year, which means I get home before six, and today was glorious because we made it home before 4:00. My momentum from the day was still going, and I made sure not to waste it. I swept floors and shook blankets. I tidied bathrooms and vacuumed rugs. Just some little things to make the house feel a bit more zen. </p><p>I had big plans for dinner too. My favorite plants are all plated up. I can smell all the smells from my oven as the sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli roast. There is quinoa on the stove with a bit of salt and olive oil, along with white rice steaming away in the rice cooker. I even used my rinsing water, from the rice, to give my kitchen plants for a big soak. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj--zygL33PQxJ6yNF-1MVZ-SmLGqsn-N6CDsM0ypfkUEVbAVt57hjyORbsGS9giFLIF4YLYrExujP4tqtI29_L1pLaWvhK42XVCln38Qp-ezmsVwj1x_ZySj_RHI3ftsADvv6WrtD0ASYYI_3H-rIrhYOSzC6gSwBsM1_MzoCIK0lXFHI06t0GO2ko" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj--zygL33PQxJ6yNF-1MVZ-SmLGqsn-N6CDsM0ypfkUEVbAVt57hjyORbsGS9giFLIF4YLYrExujP4tqtI29_L1pLaWvhK42XVCln38Qp-ezmsVwj1x_ZySj_RHI3ftsADvv6WrtD0ASYYI_3H-rIrhYOSzC6gSwBsM1_MzoCIK0lXFHI06t0GO2ko" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKEYPf_MZWSsFi_Rwz65XWSgMAgt8FB4eztC1if49pmF39rYbmmhYTMSpW4csz7cr9ZHeTiDwbv0gawa8fmRP-sbJAvLcKmggr26cTXS0eb3F69koYZ1hXex35HRTgjnmeAFlhONtmf81cHC4qS6coGYGxWkA4HLjdTp6b5gt3n19815dIE0yY3jro" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKEYPf_MZWSsFi_Rwz65XWSgMAgt8FB4eztC1if49pmF39rYbmmhYTMSpW4csz7cr9ZHeTiDwbv0gawa8fmRP-sbJAvLcKmggr26cTXS0eb3F69koYZ1hXex35HRTgjnmeAFlhONtmf81cHC4qS6coGYGxWkA4HLjdTp6b5gt3n19815dIE0yY3jro" width="180" /></a></div></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>It feels good to be productive and not come home beyond the hope of attending to anything but a meal. I'm hoping I can get home early a few nights a week before school is out so I can enjoy some of my evening time with good food and a tidied house. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHtYVMVzNUcwtUAmSzDuQnzjbxGDNHx_jiRVvxcJ43s-JA3-bmLB0bEOkooYqCoDFCWJIOfXy6iiUX_YGTTIs8jepxQMLQ1qEHBAmPJzt3iS4Mb8_psq_UAvV-_CaWlyKEUz0Np41vONMfuA_5ItXD3psMP_b2LLSMd4ipGkWSIhHCAjcVYBtPxR_/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHtYVMVzNUcwtUAmSzDuQnzjbxGDNHx_jiRVvxcJ43s-JA3-bmLB0bEOkooYqCoDFCWJIOfXy6iiUX_YGTTIs8jepxQMLQ1qEHBAmPJzt3iS4Mb8_psq_UAvV-_CaWlyKEUz0Np41vONMfuA_5ItXD3psMP_b2LLSMd4ipGkWSIhHCAjcVYBtPxR_/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-18950465338601500762023-05-02T17:35:00.003-04:002023-05-02T17:35:50.263-04:00Still At School<p>It's 5:15, and I'm still sitting in my classroom. The evening didn't go quite as planned, so I'm catching up on work at school. I decided to take a break to slice. </p><p>I like to keep a pretty tidy workspace, but I've got a bit of clutter. Among the library book late slips, multiple pens, Sharpies, and coffee cup there is a set of cards called "Book Club Table Topics." They are these really cool prompts for book clubs, and they all come in a nice acrylic box. Each card has a different question to get a conversation going. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEia-D-aUUOnf39uG_SNUh7vbAuycvLvokKOs7BmkvjHAAVwFN4jkbi-xp5ryToa1X5gfXDxHJV-o8ZYRdcgCEJhlYFKqTP0BD_xSSQzaSVl1b0deely7jFjmkQ1blyJ0GtVV2Ix4oJFHnnzxkfBvN5vetBdyK6kALIamb2FWwTnTQ1beJFMAr16HfGZ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEia-D-aUUOnf39uG_SNUh7vbAuycvLvokKOs7BmkvjHAAVwFN4jkbi-xp5ryToa1X5gfXDxHJV-o8ZYRdcgCEJhlYFKqTP0BD_xSSQzaSVl1b0deely7jFjmkQ1blyJ0GtVV2Ix4oJFHnnzxkfBvN5vetBdyK6kALIamb2FWwTnTQ1beJFMAr16HfGZ" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I sort of feel like if I was to create a "favorite things of 2023" list, these cards would most certainly make the cut. They work really well for book clubs, but also side-by-side conversations with partners about independent books too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I'm sitting here, with thirty more minutes to wait, I'm flipping through to find some good ones for tomorrow. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What's your favorite current classroom supply or resource?</div><p><br /></p><br /><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQClEp0UZEsZzBR6ZxvGyuLKx7GKquNZaadtRajJ5hcrxiesb3MQTi7iNEHKqU7V0hyqTOs7KXgqEiZFCuU29xsz2EslPl97zyWbQTIV6koSeohHq2VPg-WelP89MIDVzEygetWlhdK2PP0KJfMI5Xwj9xnldCcYWZqM5syKVZMtfK8-2c-oJ83u5/s400/SOL%20logo_English%20and%20Spanish%20(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQClEp0UZEsZzBR6ZxvGyuLKx7GKquNZaadtRajJ5hcrxiesb3MQTi7iNEHKqU7V0hyqTOs7KXgqEiZFCuU29xsz2EslPl97zyWbQTIV6koSeohHq2VPg-WelP89MIDVzEygetWlhdK2PP0KJfMI5Xwj9xnldCcYWZqM5syKVZMtfK8-2c-oJ83u5/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20and%20Spanish%20(1).png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-57948338217921758612023-03-31T18:21:00.001-04:002023-03-31T18:21:33.413-04:0031 Lines: 31 of 31<p>Radar:</p><p>red</p><p>yellow</p><p>green.</p><p>Watching</p><p>weather</p><p>change.</p><p>Two</p><p>severe</p><p>storms</p><p>back-to-back.</p><p>Checking,</p><p>Water</p><p>Snacks</p><p>Flashlights</p><p>Batteries</p><p>Notebook</p><p>Blankets</p><p>Chargers</p><p>Candles</p><p>Matches.</p><p>Meteorologists </p><p>talk</p><p>with</p><p>heightened</p><p>voices,</p><p>serious</p><p>tone.</p><p>Listen.</p><p>Watch.</p><p>Wait.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNDjpWBapYZsWzkDOudxIAALwtoejIirhabE_rUgfjT5jDfK_jAoVFylnaxG8Rqw_QJUUrZbRs182zJNh8uvNNJmCKGrNHmaz2feYGi5RKT16GR839FjomO3bg7ksBHl3BlufIGpuZh6XCjn8NS7pNqvP8SYe1y7agD2G-l0XaxwCW0q8ghsCz-ff/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNDjpWBapYZsWzkDOudxIAALwtoejIirhabE_rUgfjT5jDfK_jAoVFylnaxG8Rqw_QJUUrZbRs182zJNh8uvNNJmCKGrNHmaz2feYGi5RKT16GR839FjomO3bg7ksBHl3BlufIGpuZh6XCjn8NS7pNqvP8SYe1y7agD2G-l0XaxwCW0q8ghsCz-ff/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4042407720611831077.post-72825527917944118932023-03-30T22:05:00.002-04:002023-03-31T17:59:41.556-04:0030 Lines: 30 of 31<p>8:40 a.m., shoes on.</p><p>Out the door</p><p>the cold air hits hard.</p><p>Sun in my eyes</p><p>and frost on the windshield.</p><p>The glare is <i>just</i> bearable.</p><p>Fifteen minutes later </p><p>I'm pulling on the wrong door. </p><p>Trying the other one, </p><p>chimes ring </p><p>and I step inside. </p><p>It feels fresh.</p><p>Succulents and snake plants </p><p>accompany the lamps </p><p>with natural fabrics</p><p>and plush seats for my wait. </p><p>I can hear a conversation.</p><p>But can't piece it together. </p><p>Sounds like "work talk"</p><p>A few minutes pass </p><p>The owner walks out. </p><p>"Let's get you two checked in!"</p><p>The woman next to me gives her thanks.</p><p>I smile.</p><p>Within minutes I'm in the chair</p><p>My hair is being sectioned</p><p>and clipped.</p><p>It doesn't take long </p><p>and my shoulders drop.</p><p>Relaxation mode, on.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHjmkJ8vNe3_dQOKZRN9bwjTG_q5krCXh0uTNuGGO1MZwFZlI19L9giyyvasM-J3LuJoh0K31MMMCtp6_yyPEg-y06xNrlfqKpW2iElXyvSJrHsZQfkf_vQmxAW3ogKs-FxmqFuZA4KEPdnfpyXsqMlZgFFHWxCwGw9Ft8Q9ttXB2DJD2FqaRI34Xh/s600/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHjmkJ8vNe3_dQOKZRN9bwjTG_q5krCXh0uTNuGGO1MZwFZlI19L9giyyvasM-J3LuJoh0K31MMMCtp6_yyPEg-y06xNrlfqKpW2iElXyvSJrHsZQfkf_vQmxAW3ogKs-FxmqFuZA4KEPdnfpyXsqMlZgFFHWxCwGw9Ft8Q9ttXB2DJD2FqaRI34Xh/s320/SOL%20logo_English%20600X600.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Betsy Hubbardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10492340502962987362noreply@blogger.com3