I just LOVE October

I realize that I may have been in fact neglecting this blog. But as well all know, October is the BEST month of the year, and I've been trying to live it up. So here is what I've been doing this month (both in the classroom and not):

1. Classroom paint bags: 

Here is an example of something I wanted to do via pinterest, but took FOREVER to do it. Literally all it is is bags (ALWAYS double bag folks) filled with bight color paint, and possibly other, squishy  materials. They are great to trace letters with, as a sensory device, and my kids have decided that they love them most as a pillow! 
My only mistake was putting too much in, but the amount I put in is a good amount to feel the texture. I poured in about an 1-1/2 inch of paint within gallon bags (filling the bottom, I don't know the exact amount I used). But my kids LOVE them, and call them their "color bags". 

2. Read Well:
This is a popular reading program for elementary schools, and honestly I'm not sold on it. I'm having a lot of internal struggles with whether I should continue this program for my 2nd grade, reading (but not comprehending, or writing) program. Also, I have not been sufficiently trained in this program, so I'm not too sure of what I'm not doing correctly. I've been doing some research on other reading programs that are primarily helpful in special education, but would it really be worth it? I don't know...

3. Trying to enjoy the fall:

This autumn has been incredibly kind to us in Virginia...the perfect day-time temperature (usually around 75), and a colder night. So, this year I'm really trying to enjoy it with the people I love. So, we went to the MD Ren Faire and a (fun, but childish) trip to the pumpkin patch. It was such a fun time, and Chris has been such a good sport about it.

4. Finishing up my ESOL class:
Oh, did I mention I'm in grad school? Havent been thinking too much about it recently...but I've been doing all my work, on time, and completed (just havent exactly been present). But this class is wrapping up (I get a raise after it!) and I have a pretty solid A still, but this final essay is what my grade is lying on, so it HAS to be good (and I've kind of been putting it off). 

5. Buying a new car:

I'm so pumped to finally be able to buy a new car! This is the big purchase I've been promising myself, and I really shouldn't keep putting it off (it's a big purchase!). But hopefully this next month, i will be the proud owner of a new, 2013 Ford Fiesta!

6. Planning a very special person's birthday:

Chris is turning 30 this year, and I'm trying to make it super special for him. So we're having a big get together with everyone he knows and loves and we're going to just have him enjoy himself. 

7. Saving up to see family:
Going to Vegas for Thanksgiving, and Iowa for Christmas...


Oi, it's going to be an expensive month, but man i just LOVE October! Aside from Chris and I both getting a little sick, it's been pretty good for us. 

Next month comes parent teacher conferences, classes, and report cards. Not as fun..but at least it will be short!