Liebster Award

Thank you to the two bloggers who nominated me for a Liebster Award! This award is for bloggers on the "newer" side and just a fun way to get to know the person behind the typing.  One of the rules for accepting this nomination is to answer questions given to you by the nominating blogger.  Here are their questions and my responses:

Ann-Marie from Mrs. Parisi’s Kindergarten Class asked:

Describe your current teaching role and what things you enjoy about that age.

What’s not to love about 5 year olds?  Kindergarten is a load of fun! You never know what they are going to say!  The best plans can take a turn at any minute. There are teachable moments just lurking...

Why did you pick teaching as a career?

I sort of stumbled into teaching.  I was coaching and it was pointed out to me that I should consider teaching. I hadn’t given it a thought before. …but am glad I was turned on to it!

How did you get interested in blogging?

I have always been interested in creating. I had the opportunity to learn about working with a wiki from a colleague and that lead to more… and more…

What do you think your best skill or personality trait that you bring to teaching?

I have high expectations. I expect independence. I love the magic of convincing students that they are capable of anything. Because of course they are and I love when they believe it.

What interests do you have outside of teaching?

My girls, I love watching them and marvel at how they develop, grow and change.

What is more important teaching skills or teaching how to learn?  Why?

Hands down, teaching “how to learn.” I model “thinking aloud” all the time. I tell them why they are learning new information.  I give them language and “big, fancy teacher words” for what they are doing.  If you know the how and why, the “what” falls into place… the “what” has meaning.

Have you read any good books lately?  If so, would you recommend any?

I am struggling to find that perfect summer read.  Right now I’m reading a biography about Marie Antoinette.  I really love historical fiction, but, reading a biography has a different feel & voice.  It has taken a bit to get into.

What is your favorite thing to do on vacation?  Where do you like to vacation?

I like “stay-cations” best.  I love just being home relaxing (although with a toddler, that hasn’t happened lately)! I love to have time to read without the pressures of “something has to be done” looming over me.

If you could own any vehicle what would it be any why?

…ummm, I think a VW bug, just because ...and it should be a convertible…

Do you have a favorite sport (team?)?  To play?  To watch?

In my house it is the Yankees or you can move out. ~This are my husband’s rule. He is already brainwashing the kids.

What kinds of foods do you like to eat?  

I like anything with melted cheese, Mexican is a favorite.


 

Shelly from The Perks of Teaching Primary asked:

Who or what inspired you to teach?

Although the idea to teach came much later, I had an amazing high school Social Studies teacher.  He always had a creative twist to assignments and a larger than life personality.

What is your favorite subject to teach?  Why?

I always am drawn to teaching reading.  However,  more and more I have fallen for Mathematical thinking. I love to explore and challenge students to solve problems in different ways.  When engaging in “Math Talk” I feel like I can see into a child’s mind.

If you weren't in the field of education, what would you be doing?

I’d be a stay at home mommy.  I even think I’d home school my children.

Where would you travel to, if money were no option?

I would like to see the 7 wonders of the world.  But if I had all that money, I build a house in a beautifully treed area and just stay home in the quiet.

How many hours of sleep did you get last night?

Hard to know. I have a lot of interrupted sleep lately. Either my mind is racing or the baby is stirring.

What is your favorite television show?

My daughters would tell you “Bravo” is my favorite “show.” I have a guilty addiction to all things Bravo, but have to sneak in my favorite shows because they are not kid-friendly most of the time.

Who is your favorite author?

Philippa Gregory.  I love historical fiction.  Once I read “The Other Boleyn Girl” I read all of her books on the Tutors and more.

What is your favorite season?  Why?

Fall. I love the crisp air. I love the smell. I love not wearing a jacket, but not sweating.  I love the colors.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Neither right now.  I am not too personable in the am, but with little kids at home I am dog tired at night.  I’m in survival mode.

What is the best dish/meal that you make?

Probably, good ‘ol fashion meatloaf and mashed potatoes. …the best “food group” next to cheese.

Why did you start blogging?

I’m not exactly sure, but now I like having something that is just “me.” No boundaries, no District or State Ed. Department. 

What have you learned from blogging?

Blogging just reinforces my “It takes a village” motto.  I love the social networking aspect and the collaboration best.  That has been an unexpected perk of this journey.

Fun so far?  I’ll be back to share my nominations for the Liebster Award, my questions for them and to share 11 random facts about me!

 

Enjoy

~Holly