Happy Holidays Everyone!

I would like to thank my homeroom for the very generous gift card to Dick's Sporting Goods.  I actually need a new pair of running shoes as well as under armor to keep me warm when running in that chilly weather.  You guys are a sneaky bunch because I really never saw you shuffling money around at all!  I hope you had a nice time at the pizza/movie party today.  You EARNED this reward, so THANK YOU for being such an awesome group of kids.  I know I joke around with you guys a lot, and I also know that I'm tough on you......both are because I care about each one of you.  You're MY KIDS this year, and I get protective of my kids!  You truly make coming to work fun....every day is different - a new adventure.  Not many people can say that about their jobs.  I'm very lucky that I can.  Although it will be great having a couple of weeks off, I know that I'll miss you, too!  I'll check my email and blog a few times during break, so feel free to drop me a line to say hello.  What's everyone doing for break anyway?  

I hope you all have a joyous, safe, fun, and happy holiday season.  Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanza, Happy Winter Solstice, Happy Festivus (that's a Seinfeld thing - in case you didn't know,) and all that jazz!  Oh, let's not forget Happy New Year, too!  Remember, in between all that fun, please remember to read a little bit and hit Study Island once or twice.   See you all in 2012!  

Miss D'Amore   :  )

It's Beginning to Look a lot Like........

WINTER!  Truthfully, I'll take some snow over rain any day!  I really don't mind it this time of the year...it makes it more festive.  And let's face it.....we all loves those snow days!  However, I'm not crazy about snow when it sticks around in March and April!  

Running update:  I ran the Lakewood Reindeer Run last week.  It was great....maybe because I wore antlers on my head and jingle bells on my shoes.  You should have seen some of the things people wore to this race:  Bells, antlers, Santa suits, tu-tu's, superhero costumes.....you name it, it was there, and it was HYSTERICAL!  The weather was decent, too.  I think I'm going to make this race an annual event.  I'll post a picture, too.

So are you counting down the days?  I know you are!  If you're counting, as of today, we have seven more days of school.  What's everyone doing over break?  I mean besides all the holiday celebrations and huge project I'm assigning to you next week....anything else planned?  

Well this one is going to be short and sweet....like all of YOU!  Have a great weekend!


Miss D'Amore    :   )


P.S. I'm kidding about the project! 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Yes, I know I've been really bad about updating, but since I've made it your weekend homework to check my blog, I thought I would step into November already!

I don't know about you, but having today off (Tuesday) felt like a Saturday for me. I've had a busy couple of days running around getting all of my delayed errands run. I'm doing some remodeling and have become friends with the folks over at Lowe's. Honestly, I'm there constantly these days and really can't wait to NOT be there! I always buy the wrong things, so there's a lot of back-and-forth for me. Hopefully it will all be worth it!

So what's everyone doing for Turkey (or maybe Pig) Day? I'm trying to decide if I'm running in the Turkey Dash in Avon. It's a 5K, which I've done several times before. However, my last one was in September, so I'm a little out of practice. I go to my aunt's house for Thanksgiving every year. There are going to be about 20 of us this year, so it'll be cozy! They live on a farm out in Thompson. Her home looks like something you would see on a Hallmark card....it's picture perfect! I'm very lucky to have such a wonderful family.

I'm also trying to decide if I'm going to battle "Black Friday." I'm willing to go, but I don't think I'd ever get up at 3:00 AM to shop. Did you know many stores are opening at midnight? I feel so bad for the people that have to work through the night! And the thing is....the stores will be crowded! In addition to maybe shopping, I always put my Christmas things up this weekend. It's quite the ordeal, but worth it. It looks so cozy when I'm finished!

Well, I'm hitting the hay early tonight. I wish all of you and your families a very happy Thanksgiving. Remember to give thanks for all of your blessings! See you Monday!

Miss D'Amore : )

Haunted Halloween.....

Another Halloween party has come and gone, and a good time was had by all. We also got lucky with decent weather. A few thanks to some folks that made our party possible: Our room moms, Mrs. Slesh (Brooke's mom) and Mrs. Shaw (Ethan S.'s mom) ROCK! It's a lot to coordinate and organize, and we wouldn't have great parties without them. We also had some yummy treats compliments of Mrs. Paull (Alexa's mom,) Mrs. Pollina (Noah and Sadie's mom,) Mrs. Middleton (Cameron's mom,) and cute paper products from Ms. Elyashevich (David's mom.) And three cheers for Mrs. Van de Walle for her great Halloween Jeopardy Game. She also had a lovely assistant - our very own LUKE! I'm sure that took a good amount of time to create, so thank you very much. It was a HUGE hit, too!

I actually started this post this morning, but when I went to post it, most of it was lost. Needless to say, I wasn't happy at all. Although it was pretty good, naturally, I can't remember everything I wrote, so I'll add more later in the week.

Remember, this is the last week of the first trimester, so all "missing" work MUST be completed this week! Brush up on your science, too; your chapter test will be Thursday (possibly Friday.) See everyone tomorrow!

Miss D.

Is It Really October?

So where did September go anyway? It's amazing how fast time marches on, isn't it? Pretty soon we'll all be putting on costumes and walking around the building. Then we'll blink and we'll all be eating turkey and gearing up for the holidays. I'm willing to bet that my mom has already started her Christmas shopping! Are any of your mom's like that? Do they shop for Christmas, Hanukkah, and/or your birthday months before the actual event? My mom is often the target of much ridicule and teasing for being so overly prepared, but honestly, I think it's great. Whatever the holiday or occasion, she sets the table several days in advance. Her shopping is always done weeks before any event, and every package is beautifully wrapped. And although we tease her, she makes everything so nice for our family. She always gets me a small "teacher" present at the start of every year - usually something for my classroom. Whatever it is, my mom always makes things special. What are some things your mom's do that make you feel special?

I forgot what you guys look like - I mean you've had 4 DAYS OFF this weekend! I had a good weekend too....I've hung out with friends, went to a baby shower, did some shopping, and spent time with my family. Hopefully the Browns will win again, too! I'll be watching them at the clambake I'm going to later. What did you do? How did some of you celebrate Rosh Hashannah?

Oh, about leaving me comments on the blog; in order to not have "Anonymous" appear on your comment, sign up for an account. You can pick a "secret name" if you want, but you have to at least tell me first so I know who I'm talking to. If you don't want to do that, you must at least identify yourself at the end of your comment, or I will not post your comment. Sorry, but those are the "rules." As always, use proper grammar and spelling.

Well, that's about it. See everyone tomorrow!

Miss D'Amore : )

And We're Off......to a GREAT Start!

I really mean that, too. We are truly well on our way and have laid the foundation for a fabulous year. The personalities are emerging, along with some silliness and giggles. Although I miss my "old kids" tremendously, we have a solid team again this year. Megan, I'm training a couple of kids to change the schedule everyday. My new class LOVES to volunteer to help out whenever and where ever needed, too. NOAH GOLOVAN has been a great peer pal to our newest team member, LUKE VAN DE WALLE. LUKE used to live on Mr. Haag's street, which is also my cousin's street, and they all knew each other before Moreland...small world! At open house I found out that SOPHIE NEWMAN is the daughter of a high school friend; this friend and I were also majorettes together. Again, small world! Maybe we can twirl our batons for everyone someday! Wouldn't that be funny? All in all, it's been a good ride so far.

I have to say how happy it makes me to hear from former students. Last week alone I received emails from Lexy, Madison, Audrey, and LUKE! It makes me feel so good to be missed. Please know that I really miss all of you, too! Luke moved to Colorado and misses Orange. But he says it's so beautiful there....maybe we should all go and visit him?! Meghan S. and Megan D. are regular blog followers. I also get comments from Jocelyn, Katie, Izzy, Jackie, and Matthew. THANK YOU for keeping in touch with me! Oh, someone tell Joan that no one tells me that they like my shirts anymore! : (

So the 5K is tomorrow and I am going to run it. I'm nervous for this one for two reasons: First, I haven't run a race since June, so I'm out of practice. And second, it's a difficult course! There are lots of hills, twists, turns, grass running, and more hills. I was SO exhausted last year as so many students blew right past me! I've decided that I'm following the moral of a fable that we all know: "Slow and steady wins the race." It's not about speed, but participation. And with that said, I hope to see many of you there. The race starts at 9:00.

My class has been begging me to update the Comedy Corner. My goal is to be more attentive to that part of the blog this year. So since I'm going to do that, my NEW students need to follow the lead of my former students and leave me comments. Remember, it's a school blog, so check your spelling and grammar! That's about it for now......have a great weekend everyone!

Miss D.

One Week Down.....

.....And only 35 more to go! So how was everyone's first week back? For me, it's a flurry of mixed feelings. I'm always excited to start a new school year, set up the room, meet my new students, and so on, but at the same time, it's hard to say goodbye to summer. Believe me, I understand that. It was rather easy to get up a few hours later and do whatever I wanted, when I wanted. It was also very easy to stay up late, hang out by the pool, go to baseball games, and so on..... But like I mentioned in another post, I started having "school dreams" probably around the middle to end of July. But I digress, I don't care how old I am or how many years I will teach, getting up so early (around 5:00 AM) will NEVER be easy for me or something I "get used to." But once I'm at school, something just kind of takes over....I'm in "go mode." Anything's possible. I changed the room several times before I was satisfied with how it looked. The changes are good and makes the room look more open and accessible. The old desktop computers are gone and have been replaced by five new Mac laptops. I think it looks great!

I had a few visitors at the ice cream social. I looked up and there was MEGAN DICKINSON! She also brought me a cool new space book - what a nice surprise that was! Thank you, Megan. And Megan, I found your class's Important Book, complete with the cover you made. All I have to do is put that spiral binding thing on it and it will be ready to join the other Important books. NICK BEGAN and PABLO GARCIA also stopped by. Nick searched for his former desk. He was able to identify it because of the "big scratch" he left on it! JOCELYN TROSTLER also made an appearance, looking cute as always! This past Friday, some students from a couple of years ago stopped by - so thank you to Taryn, Stella, Leah S., and Samantha for visiting me - that means a lot. I think I remembered everyone, but if I didn't, please let me know.

The Second Annual Orange 5K will be Sunday, September 18. I'm really on the fence about running this race. Last year at this time, I knew I would run it because I ran a lot over the summer. This summer, I cut way back on the running because my both shins and my right hamstring were always hurting. If memory serves, this is a very challenging course; it's hilly, partially on the grass, and oh yeah, did I mention hilly? So I have about 3 weeks to get ready for it. Wonder if MITCH or JOAN will run it again this year???? How about any new students? Any of you runners?

Well, speaking of running, I'm going to go do just that. Have a great first full week of school! Stay out of trouble, too!

Miss D'Amore : )

WELCOME BACK!

If you're like me, you're probably wondering where summer went and how it rolled by so quickly. Happens every year, doesn't it? Yet winter seems to go on forever! But even though summer is drawing to an end, we are so lucky to have the time off to rest, go places, hang out with friends and family, and have fun! It is time, however, to gear up for a new school year.

I'm sure that my fifth-graders marching into sixth are a little nervous.....that's totally understandable, and pretty much how it should be. It's a nervous excitement, right? I know you will miss Moreland, but once you settle into life at middle school, you will love it! Somehow when you get there, everything will fall into place.....things click. So face this new part of your life with confidence because you're ready to be there. And when you see me outside on my recess duty days, please come over and say hello, or at least wave to me, okay???

I'm very excited to meet my new class. Right now I have 20 kids on my roster, but that number could always change, and usually does! The room is pretty much set up with a few things left for me to still do. The "Advice Poster" is hanging up and ready for viewing. I didn't change too much in the room, but I think it looks pretty good. Rumor is we're getting new computers in each classroom. Hopefully this is more than a rumor! Like I've told you many times, please remember to pop over every once in awhile and visit.

Well, that's about it for now. I hope each of you has a wonderful and productive year. Remember, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER, so study hard, learn a lot, make new friends, and have fun! See you soon!

Miss D'Amore : )

Hey Astronomy Fans.....

Copy and paste this link into your browser. This is some interesting stuff and helps explain why I'm ALWAYS hot! I think we should have an emergency science class to discuss this article!

http://www.theonion.com/articles/scientists-trace-heat-wave-to-massive-star-at-cent,21088/#enlarge

Let me know if you're able to do this.

On another astronomy note, here's another link about what's happening this weekend...the Perseid Meteor Showers! Check out this link:

http://www.space.com/12593-perseid-meteor-shower-full-moon-observing-tips.html

Well, me and the man (Bill Nye) have the telescope all set up and ready to go. Happy Viewing! Longer post next time!

Miss D. : )

Anyone Out There????

Hello Everyone!

Is anyone actually reading the blog or am I alone in here? I know how busy everyone is these days; isn't summer the best? I just returned from Punta Cana on Monday. My family and I were there for almost a week. It was soooooooo hot down there, but totally fun! I went zip lining, which was very cool! I'd never done that before, so it was a great first experience....a little scarey at first, but fun! We also went snorkeling/swimming with sharks and stingrays. The sharks didn't really bother me, but the stingrays were completely creepy and slimy! I tried to swim away from them, too! I have to admit how nice it was to lounge around by the pool and float on the water everyday! The resort had some fabulous shows at night, too. All in all, it was a great trip. I still haven't heard from most of you....what's everyone doing these days?

I'm already having dreams about school, which means it's just around the corner! Hard to believe, huh? We can talk about that later. Until then, have a great weekend!

Miss D.

SUMMER!

So how did everyone celebrate the Summer Solstice? And you all BETTER know what that means! If you can't remember, don't tell me. I don't want to know. Just go and dig out your well-preserved Astronomy packet immediately, and flip to the "seasons" section. It's too bad a hurricane blew into town that day! This weather is simply nutty!

How are you spending your days so far? Let me know in the comment section, using beautiful grammar, spelling, and punctuation of course, and I'll post it! Hey, I'm still your teacher!

Anyway, I just wanted to say hello and tell you that I miss you guys! Have great weekends!

Miss D'Amore : )

So Long...Farewell.....Goodbye......

The last day of school is always bittersweet for me. Like you, I can't wait for a summer that's filled with fun, sun, and rest. It will be nice to sleep in, too, providing the geese cooperate! But, with all of the excitement of the last day, I always feel a little sad, too. It's different being a fifth-grade teacher than any other grade because our kids are leaving us.....you grow up and move on to the next phase of your lives. I won't get to see you in the halls at Moreland anymore, and it makes me sad. That's why I always get so excited when former students come back to visit me and say hello. You've all seen that excitement from me several times this year as "old" students made their way over. True, I don't always recognize them, but eventually I do. That's the thing with middle school.....it's brings a lot of change....good changes. I know you're nervous about starting a new school, and that's perfectly normal. Just remember, you're all in it together! And the nice part is, I'm just a short walk or email away. HINT: YOU BETTER COME AND VISIT ME NEXT YEAR! Try to check the blog every now and then, too.

Anyway, back to being emotional. The clap-out always gets to me.....there's just something about walking down that long hall surrounding by clapping students, teachers, parents, and friends. It's very touching and probably something you'll never forget. Standing there waving good-bye to all of you as your buses pull away also tugs at my heart. And seeing the looks on all of your faces as you stand up and wave to us from you bus....well that's just priceless! After the last bus pulled away, the retirees followed in convertibles, also waving goodbye to friends, colleagues, and a huge part of their lives. Yes, it's been quite the emotional day....

Enjoy your first day off tomorrow, which is my last day. The room looks SO different. It feels empty.......But before you know, the sound of laughter and "thinking" will fill the room once again. And just think, YOU were a part of it all!

Until next time,

Miss D. : )

The Countdown Begins.......

Good Saturday Morning/Afternoon to you!

First off, I want to congratulate everyone for the FABULOUS FEAST we had on Thursday! What a great way to end this very involved project. I'm SO happy with how it went, the food, the help, and the fun! You all did a great job bringing in some really delicious foods from around the world. Please thank Mom and Dad for me for their generosity. Remember, if you want a copy of the recipe book, you need to give me a typed copy of your recipe. Include the name of the dish and the country it comes from, along with your name. You must list the ingredients and clear directions for preparing the food. Please have these to me by TUESDAY, MAY 31. I would like to thank our terrific parents that helped me set up that morning. THANK YOU for also helping with the clean up, too! I can't tell you how much I appreciate the help. They made the "work" fun and easy and I couldn't have done all of that without them. So three cheers to: Mrs. Bilfield, Mrs. Simon, Ms. Coward, Mrs. Schold, Mrs. Garcia, Mrs. Russo, and Mr. Garson. I hope you all also enjoyed yourselves, too! ; )

The actual Around the World projects are amazing! I'm so proud of everyone's efforts and accomplishments, and of course will be seeking out a few donations. You have all made tremendous gains this year and it shows. I see more ownership from you and a strong desire to want to do well. Your research skills are second to no one, and grasp of concepts is impressive. However, we still have a few days of school to go, so keep that momentum going! Don't start vacationing quite yet! We will continue presenting reading projects on Tuesday and Wednesday, and hopefully finish our planet presentations on Tuesday. Remember, your final test on Science Chapter 16 (Stars) is Thursday, June 2. Sorry, but the word "gibbous" will not be on this test! : )

The Michigan trip is Friday, May 3. It's so hard to believe that we are actually at that point in the year. Michigan is a great day, fun, AND educational. Be sure to read over the informational sheets that I sent home with you on Friday. Make sure your parents read them, too. Get lots of sleep the night before and get your walking shoes ready!

I ran another race this morning. This one was in Bay Village and was for the American Cancer Society. I had my best time to date, but I'm still not quite at my goal time. But eventually, I'll get there! Next weekend I'm doing a double-header! I have a race on Saturday in North Olmsted, and another one on Sunday in Solon. Anyone want to run in the Solon one? Mitch? Will I see you there? It would be great to see a lot of you there. You don't have to run; there's also a walk, or you could just come to clap, cheer, and support the runners. Let me know. I believe Mr. Anderson and Mrs. Lauer are also running. Hope to see you there!

Well, this "old lady" is a little tired from running, so I'm going to chill for a little and try to get some grading finished. I hope you all have a nice long holiday weekend. See you Tuesday!

Miss D'Amore : )

Okay Megan....Here Ya Go!

So Megan, I posted your comment, but now I can't find it! What blog entry did you comment on? I've looked around for it, but it seems to be missing in action. And yes, I'm sooooooooo proud of you for leaving a comment! I just wish others could see it. Let me know if you find it. I also agree with you that Mr. Ealy should have better things to do than eat cake in front of all of us! What's up with that?

I'm sure by now you have all figured out that this time of the year is project time! Everyone seems to be really getting into the planet project and research portion. This astronomy "stuff" truly fascinates me! I could seriously teach this all year....we're only scratching the surface in class, so please learn about even more yourself when you're online. There are TONS of astronomy and space websites, as you're discovering. Once we are finished with the project, we have our last chapter (16) to complete, which is on stars. You had a crash course in this when we went to the planetarium. We'll study the sun, as well as other stars. In the past, students seem interested in how stars are "born," but more importantly, they can't get enough of.......you guessed...how they DIE! Now don't go getting all nervous....the sun has a few billion years to go before it fizzles.

Speaking of projects, I'm very proud of how so many of you are already done with your books for the Reading Around the World project and also that almost half of you have a tremendous jump on your packets. I can't wait to see all of your final products! And obviously, we all can't wait to EAT! Remember, snoop around the Internet for a main dish or a side dish from your country. We'll negotiate desserts later! I'm getting hungry now, and since this is a "training night," I was already hungry once I sat down to write this! : )

Well, this one's short and sweet. See ya'll tomorrow! Check out the waxing crescent tonight as it makes its way over to a first quarter in a couple of days!

Miss D.

Farewell 2011 OAA!

You made it! You all made it through TEST WEEK! I know what a nerve-racking experience taking all these tests can be. It's nerve-racking for us, too. But, in the long run, you will be so proud of the growth you have all made this year. When I met you, you were basically "fourth graders." Now I see young ladies and gentlemen, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in your lives. I want you all to know how proud I am of your efforts this past week.

But, we still have a month of school ahead of us, so don't start to get into summer mode quite yet. There is still a lot of work to do. We are gearing up for the "Reading Around the World" project. I know you will all produce quality products and will learn even more than you already have. We will continue our journey through our solar system and the universe as we explore the planets, the sun, and the stars. Another Holden field trip is quickly approaching, as is the much anticipated Michigan trip. PLEASE keep in mind the things that were said at our team meeting today. Make good decisions, follow the rules, continue to do your best work, and watch the rewards pile up.

Did anyone watch the Royal Wedding? Some of my friends came over tonight and we had a "reception." Now I really doubt the future King and Queen of England ate pizza and salad tonight, but we did, along with some naughty desserts and filling appetizers while wearing glamorous tiaras! Then I wonder why the scale is going in the wrong direction! But, this wedding is history in the making, so indulging once in awhile is okay. I'll just have to run really hard over the weekend!

Have a marvelous weekend ~ see you Monday!

Miss D'Amore : )

April Showers.....

Good Afternoon Everyone!

So how's your weekend going? What a great day....finally, huh? Since my last posting, spring has sprung! Not to mention we already had spring break...that's hard to believe. I've updated the blog, except for the Comedy Corner - well, I did post one thing. Let's make a master list of all of the funny and weird moments that we've had. It's really hard to remember things that happened weeks and months ago - I know - my fault.....but if you want to see your name in the honorable location on the blog, you'll help me with this!

I ran a race this morning called Emily's Rainbow Run. All the proceeds go to research and fighting pediatric cancer. Unfortunately, Emily lost her battle almost three years ago, but so many others will beat this disease. Mr. Anderson and Mrs. Lauer ran the race, too. Now we're looking forward to running another one soon!

We're in the home stretch now.....the Ohio Achievement Assessment (OAA) is only two short weeks away. Let me let you in on a little secret.....you are all READY for these tests. We've worked very hard this year, so don't let a test make you nervous. Be CONFIDENT and trust that you will do great! Remember, read everything carefully. This is NOT a race to finish first! You have two and a half hours per test, so make the most of that time. Think of the strategies, lessons, activities, and experiences you've had throughout the year. Be NEAT in your work. Always go back and check every response and answer extended answers fully and completely. I have the dates posted on the left side of the blog. I KNOW you will shine!

Well, I need to get going. See everyone tomorrow, bight and early!

Miss D'Amore : )

CRASH, by Jerry Spinelli

Figurative Language

Spring is Just Around the Corner......

Okay, I will admit that I haven't been the best about updating the blog....in fact, I didn't think too many people were reading it. Well, I was wrong. Many of my devoted students/followers have been politely "nagging" me to update. With that said, this post is dedicated to JACKIE RUSSELL and MEGHAN SIMON. Thanks ladies for the encouragement!

Last time I posted I wished everyone a Happy New Year. Now, here we are two months later, eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring. Is it just me, or is time FLYING by? It seems like this winter is never going to end! But, with all those terrible cold, snowy, and icy days, we've been lucky in the "snow day" department this year! Four snow days? WOW! That last one on the Friday of President's Day week was quite the nice surprise! Now we just need to hope that the "powers that be" in Columbus will pass the legislation giving us back the two days they took away from us. Since I'm more than annoyed at the moment with the "powers that be" in Columbus, that's all I'll say about that!

I'm home right now doing some things around the house - laundry, cleaning, helping install the hood above my stove, ya know, fun stuff! I know there are SO many funny things I've jotted down during several of my classes for the Comedy Corner, but all those notes are at school. I do recall there were a bunch of funny things compliments of Luke Farchione. I think Shannon Bruce has also had his share of "moments" too. Really, haven't we all? This week, let's make a master list of all of the truly outrageous things that have happened over the past couple of months. Maybe if it's really good, Mr. Ealy will treat all of us to Popsicles, instead of just eating them in front of everyone!

In science we wrapped up anything and everything having to do with ecosystems and resources. All three chapters brought many new exciting topics to share and new information to learn. Also, you're among the first students to participate in the "Independent Projects" for science. It's kind of cool being the Guinea pig group, isn't it? Mr. Rashidi made a return appearance and presented even more interesting information. We've also taken advantage of presenting selected topics in reading and science in a cross-curricular manner. Whether it's cause and effect, main idea and details, or reading about the influences of Rachel Carson, integrating these subjects is teaching you life long skills.....were you even aware of this???? I'm sneaky, aren't I?

Time to brag.....most students in my homeroom have completed another personal narrative. I have to say, these stories are EXCELLENT! The difference between the writing at the beginning of the year to now is amazing...truly! I'm SO proud of you and the growth you've shown not only in writing, but across the board.

We have our field trip to the Natural History Museum next week. This is one of my favorites because we will be at the planetarium. It's no secret that Astronomy is by far my favorite topic/subject in science. Once we complete our current Sound and Light Unit, get ready for some serious star gazing and mind-blowing realities! But don't wait until then. Start reading about the moon and its phases, the seasons and why we have them, our solar system, and stars. There's SO much to learn that I could seriously teach this the whole year!

So Jackie and Meghan, maybe you should consider being scouts for the blog. As you notice things in class, both serious and funny, or have ideas for the blog, let me know. I want to thank you, and everyone else, that "reminded me" to update ASAP! You guys rock!

Oh, one more thing...since I didn't post anything in February, I missed saying Happy Birthday to Shannon Bruce on the 14th, Ethan Hsi on the 22nd, and Max Rekhson on the 25th, which was one of those snow days! Hope all your days were HAPPY!

More updates to come......let the spring break countdown begin!!!

Miss D'Amore ; )

Happy New Year!

Hello Everyone and Happy New Year!

Has it really been two weeks already? I hope everyone had a fun, restful, and enjoyable break. I don't know about you, but for me, the break absolutely flew! Seems there was always something to do, or something that needed to be done. The first week was pretty much devoted to getting ready for Christmas. You spend weeks getting ready for it, then POOF! It's over. However, both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were very nice. I truly love spending time with my family and friends, and getting to see some cousins that live out of state. Naturally, there's plenty of laughing, talking, and picture taking, but coming from an Italian family, there's entirely just too much EATING! I was pretty bad girl about watching the diet......but, I did go to my trainer twice a week (both weeks) instead of just my usual weekly appointment. In true trainer fashion, she showed me no mercy! I'm glad she's tough on me, though!

The second week was a bit more calm. I got a lot of things done around the house, shopped some more, hung out with some friends, and geared up for the new year. Did you eat your pork and cabbage on New Year's Day? That's the traditional meal you're supposed to eat on January 1 to bring you good luck throughout the year. Now don't panic if you didn't do this. Think of the Traditions program that Mrs. Bilfield presented to us; these are just "things" we do in our families. I figure eating such a meal couldn't hurt!

Do you know what Tuesday is? You guessed it - the new season of The Biggest Loser begins at 8:00. Rumor has it they're adding two additional trainers to shake things up a bit. Also, it's Jillian's last season. I encourage you to watch the show and learn from it. You know I will!

Finally, I want to thank everyone for the lovely and generous gifts I received the week before break began. I am truly touched by your thoughtfulness and kind words. All of the individual gifts and the gift cards from both classes will all be put to good use! THANK YOU so much of thinking of me! Thanks also goes out to all of the room moms and dads that helped with the holiday party. It was a HUGE success and a good time was had by all! I can't think of a better way to usher out the old year and welcome in the new! And as much as I enjoyed my break, you know what else? I really missed you guys! I did....and I thought about all of you a lot. Here's a little secret that you might not know.....I know it's going to be hard for you to return to school after having two weeks off - I truly understand that. But you know what? It's hard for teachers, too. As much as I love teaching and our wonderful team, it is difficult to get back into the swing of things. Going to bed earlier, getting up earlier, facing the traffic and weather, and so on, is a lot to do! The good news is, though, we're all in this together! We're all in the same boat, and it makes it easier knowing that I get to see "my kids" on Monday. Don't worry ~ you'll be fine! I promise!

See you soon and Happy 2011!

Miss D'Amore : )