tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34106536246541284752024-03-14T06:00:18.569-04:00Blog StalkerCreeping Around the Blog WorldCindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-29917224791934656772013-07-03T15:32:00.001-04:002013-07-03T15:34:18.308-04:00My Summer ReadSeveral years ago I heard about Ron Clark on The Oprah Winfrey Show. I saw the movie with Matthew Perry and was touched. I read The Essential 55 which was about the rules and expectations in his classroom. This summer I saw a list of the 25 top summer reads for teachers. I pulled several up on Amazon (love that they let you read pieces of the books) and finally pulled up <a href="http://www.amazon.com/End-Molasses-Classes-Unstuck--101-Extraordinary/dp/1451639740/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1372879733&sr=1-3&keywords=ron+clark">The End of Molasses Classes</a> by Ron Clark. As I read through the Amazon sneak peek I found myself laughing and tearing up all at the same time and decided I really wanted to read the whole book. I considered ordering the electronic version and reading it on my iPad but somehow I knew this was going to be a book I wanted to share with my co-workers and friends. Monday I got my book in the mail and I'm loving it. I'm just wondering if anyone had read the book or visited the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta? (click on the title above to get a sneak peek)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTDYmVxWvJRq1ZROO_bQu8hSVLEWIcwC9ln1snoavPHoZGBUaNLsg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTDYmVxWvJRq1ZROO_bQu8hSVLEWIcwC9ln1snoavPHoZGBUaNLsg" /></a></div>Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-63975708821148562762013-07-01T11:35:00.000-04:002013-07-01T11:35:38.106-04:00Vacation ModeSuch a weird feeling this summer. Normally I'm all over the blogs, making things, shopping, etc and basically getting ready for next school year. This summer, I'm totally in vacation mode. Don't get me wrong, I have done a little shopping for school but overall, I can't get motivated. I think this past school year took so much out of me that I'm still recovering. I feel a little guilty but at the same time it feels good. I took a mini vacation this weekend to the Keys with my family mostly because we wanted cuban food from El Siboney, cafe con leche from 5 Brothers' Grocery and sandals from Kino. Next week we will be heading to our favorite resort just about an hour down the road at the Hyatt Coconut Plantation. I guess after that I will have to kick it into high gear because I head back to work July 31st.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-79298818143907240032013-06-24T14:47:00.000-04:002013-06-24T14:47:46.648-04:00SummerSo I guess I'm going to have to come the the realization that I'm a summer blogger. It seems like once school starts, my life spins out of control and blogging goes on the back burner. As is, I've been out of school for a month and I'm just now coming back. Not gonna lie, it was a rough year. I had great kids but they just didn't mesh so I was constantly on my toes and putting out fires. I love each and every one of them individually but as a group they were a hand full.<br />
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This past year also involved many changes. This was our first year with Common Core, the new observation process that the state of FL has mandated and new administration. Our new administration was definitely the biggest blessing. Our school finally became a positive place to be and work. Don't get me wrong, kids have always come first but for the first time in the 15 years that I've been there, the teachers and faculty were given value and a voice. We were appreciated for what we do and the results that we get. <br />
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So now that I'm back to blogging, I'm getting ready to take a vacation which is much needed. Hopefully, it will keep me motivated to keep blogging. It will definitely give me a chance to check out some new Target Dollar Spots. I haven't found much around here yet other than eraser dice which I thought would be great because they won't be as loud. lol Hopefully, the new stuff will be coming out soon.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-11874793090672502212012-08-22T18:39:00.001-04:002012-08-22T18:39:05.313-04:00Crazy DayThis was one insane day! Our fire alarm went off during specials along with the announcement that this was NOT a drill. Of course, we were all wondering what was going on but my daughter and I helped the other kids out since ours were across campus. When they started closing the gate we knew something was up. We ended up standing out in the hot Florida sun for about 20 minutes, thank goodness I had taken my water bottle with me when I left. We did manage to move the kids to shade while we waited for the fire dept. Turned out to be a short in the wiring panel in the building with the AC chiller. Then as I was getting to the cafeteria door the alarm went off again. Another 20 minutes waiting in the parking lot while the fire dept arrived and checked it all out. Finally a quick lunch, a little playground and then I was off to a 2 hour training while a sub took over my class. Let me just clarify that it was the whole grade level that went to the training. Luckily, I have done enough routines and procedures that my kids handled it pretty well. Maybe tomorrow will be a little more calm. One can only hope...Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-57882299230858474252012-08-12T20:56:00.000-04:002012-08-12T20:56:33.118-04:00Ready or Not Here We Go!Well, I went back a couple weeks ago and this is the first chance I have had to post about it. I missed out on the last one or two Monday Made Its even though I had been very busy. Last week I was my youngest daughter's 16th birthday but it was also Open House at my school. To make up for it I made her cupcakes, chocolate with peanut butter frosting. Sorry I don't have any pictures, my family couldn't wait to dive in. Needless to say, my daughter wasn't upset with me for having to work at all. In fact the whole family joined me in greeting my new families as well as visiting with my past students and their families.<br />
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Thanks to Tara for her <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">Monday Made It</a>s for keeping me on track and getting things done. It certainly helped me get things ready for my room. This week my first Made it is my classroom. When I walked into my classroom a couple weeks ago this is what greeted me. (Well this and the electrician rewiring the light in the ceiling.)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrso-F_d2mA2HXZX_r5uEdCen2ZNHqjK1zeHAOz3AsJjiHdTKCZv1dSHeKf9S2sXtdY5-ou-2WBxnyI_NwBgEvWMOQPxpY4AQOVHMxY2XOgZ7IWhALSxTqrN7vrFxW_8uwWjcKrpqVgVw/s1600/school+12-13+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrso-F_d2mA2HXZX_r5uEdCen2ZNHqjK1zeHAOz3AsJjiHdTKCZv1dSHeKf9S2sXtdY5-ou-2WBxnyI_NwBgEvWMOQPxpY4AQOVHMxY2XOgZ7IWhALSxTqrN7vrFxW_8uwWjcKrpqVgVw/s320/school+12-13+001.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoFfSTn1f9KPIlSeFwbHFV6B9tNidc6hYrR27zdqHYcr3SNZCF1dUvCxD4VRBjWpiYx-GE1Qqrz4HUOkN3N1JPyvv4LvGoBlRJoxj2nip13om7w1WJmoJTifEe1XTHvQ32BW_a3AjpqI/s1600/school+12-13+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoFfSTn1f9KPIlSeFwbHFV6B9tNidc6hYrR27zdqHYcr3SNZCF1dUvCxD4VRBjWpiYx-GE1Qqrz4HUOkN3N1JPyvv4LvGoBlRJoxj2nip13om7w1WJmoJTifEe1XTHvQ32BW_a3AjpqI/s320/school+12-13+002.JPG" /></a></div>Doesn't look too bad until you look in the closets where I had to <strike>shove</strike> store everything. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4E97IINO2xB7ejRMAQlqiMGZefWt8p-xgx7kz5WGLg1rz5w-RCBFIgWHP-9yWhEA-tgDYUd1bwjbdKS3_Xhety-3n9MX8kWSNIp1qydbPOT_sKWMmOYoJrt7ZXVUKAYCQY0tkODDh2I/s1600/school+12-13+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4E97IINO2xB7ejRMAQlqiMGZefWt8p-xgx7kz5WGLg1rz5w-RCBFIgWHP-9yWhEA-tgDYUd1bwjbdKS3_Xhety-3n9MX8kWSNIp1qydbPOT_sKWMmOYoJrt7ZXVUKAYCQY0tkODDh2I/s320/school+12-13+004.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8vgbEf71ntwQmFoHtHSlnkqQUdz4oFuKHQ5tjgiDGvzIUq1CRE1Y6BTqCtKBa-oMBr0wAt6a2pVjXx-EU1bO3o7uMRcDu4U5BVoITzun9ejJcKW8MVQiJcXwQ8dGJTW-SLDGtCStT_U/s1600/school+12-13+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8vgbEf71ntwQmFoHtHSlnkqQUdz4oFuKHQ5tjgiDGvzIUq1CRE1Y6BTqCtKBa-oMBr0wAt6a2pVjXx-EU1bO3o7uMRcDu4U5BVoITzun9ejJcKW8MVQiJcXwQ8dGJTW-SLDGtCStT_U/s320/school+12-13+003.JPG" /></a></div>Well there is an upside to all of this, my oldest daughter has been a HUGE help to me. She starts college in a couple weeks as an education major so she might as well get the hang of it besides she has grown up in my classroom so this is nothing new to her. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj99nNM7peOU5i8mg_F9YEkWftZyQcmSwYBF-qrvQMT6emz1Fa3ydj5Kydq2-LI95AJIl8f8DYCMD4J2bj4Db0RNu2R6G7s97YAYOb64Vnvhyv13Ns2ttPKHY4ngbLtrw3y_pYCVUN0d18/s1600/school+12-13+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj99nNM7peOU5i8mg_F9YEkWftZyQcmSwYBF-qrvQMT6emz1Fa3ydj5Kydq2-LI95AJIl8f8DYCMD4J2bj4Db0RNu2R6G7s97YAYOb64Vnvhyv13Ns2ttPKHY4ngbLtrw3y_pYCVUN0d18/s320/school+12-13+006.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDfPI1d7oTI-WgXsE4Dy5hmzOKsk748VXLZXss7kTnQ5vdYsQ-Ri28mW9IW1PtfTF_zCxztHJnforGxa4sogdnuT76hlDr7zpaQWTNFdwbMh2SlDX6wyPZ2n5We7qTSOHZLhsUO4Z0l8/s1600/school+12-13+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDfPI1d7oTI-WgXsE4Dy5hmzOKsk748VXLZXss7kTnQ5vdYsQ-Ri28mW9IW1PtfTF_zCxztHJnforGxa4sogdnuT76hlDr7zpaQWTNFdwbMh2SlDX6wyPZ2n5We7qTSOHZLhsUO4Z0l8/s320/school+12-13+007.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifs7VM9xaI2XNYUB5M87YgTuKIn4y7kHdpFLGnBryD_K21VMDIiBOj_sm1u6TlObfU61WJdxjqivVsVUYvlKHYnuJxsSNo4ubvmvIfnLU8RTKQ6WEzf3d0jGeISmwjeual7heDVsHS2c/s1600/school+12-13+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifs7VM9xaI2XNYUB5M87YgTuKIn4y7kHdpFLGnBryD_K21VMDIiBOj_sm1u6TlObfU61WJdxjqivVsVUYvlKHYnuJxsSNo4ubvmvIfnLU8RTKQ6WEzf3d0jGeISmwjeual7heDVsHS2c/s320/school+12-13+005.JPG" /></a></div>Finally, almost everything is in place. I made a new alphabet to go with my movie theme. I wish I had made the letters bigger but it will have to do for now. Maybe next year I'll make it bigger.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkIv3uLSGaRxd8dSToHm1hw3cVgbSddz1oWWq2POQQpGiui18paZNWNSmCELJ3gCQLQUjN4wiANDfP5_iEGUzansnJaNfeIA_rIlkhtbj5XiShGfAMHe5dg5HErUlZSAWBA03rXYAowi4/s1600/school+12-13+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkIv3uLSGaRxd8dSToHm1hw3cVgbSddz1oWWq2POQQpGiui18paZNWNSmCELJ3gCQLQUjN4wiANDfP5_iEGUzansnJaNfeIA_rIlkhtbj5XiShGfAMHe5dg5HErUlZSAWBA03rXYAowi4/s320/school+12-13+009.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqC0grkp_oiXp1Fc8Ed6y7M15PsQUgzwEdtVcjLhboiD14BGYAWpMooyEz9iea0nTul70kevFiSfm1yoal42fF2DuFIZNWxpUbvUVBfx-6QGVXyVspq3Kkm7aw3c9EszTTIPmWspri2z8/s1600/school+12-13+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqC0grkp_oiXp1Fc8Ed6y7M15PsQUgzwEdtVcjLhboiD14BGYAWpMooyEz9iea0nTul70kevFiSfm1yoal42fF2DuFIZNWxpUbvUVBfx-6QGVXyVspq3Kkm7aw3c9EszTTIPmWspri2z8/s320/school+12-13+010.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj98d30DfQM7U1bc0TkijCSVsqhasD6Xa8U_G2BCL_yHDV8YK0f9wmrWY5KMzYScNl8JnOOUGGaGO-hnu0pruCXuDJeswoKby65yq_qenDNulUTED0URE0p42CHaCkMjBUqVLxZ2D2uRQ/s1600/school+12-13+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj98d30DfQM7U1bc0TkijCSVsqhasD6Xa8U_G2BCL_yHDV8YK0f9wmrWY5KMzYScNl8JnOOUGGaGO-hnu0pruCXuDJeswoKby65yq_qenDNulUTED0URE0p42CHaCkMjBUqVLxZ2D2uRQ/s320/school+12-13+011.JPG" /></a></div>Guess I'll have to post some close ups later. But before I end this very long post let me just post one of my Monday Made Its that I did take a picture of. I finally got my toolbox labels in my box since it was buried in the closet all summer. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3EBKglYb0mE2ASRv1re01rfHhzbVWDZ8rqkJy6-xXDdQ8i1cShrSd1QvJlFs_Ty7E1Ftm7cR2P9KJAPAVYTdK03c8Ws6nqrISLuczO9JZ12s35hEJnvwTFSpM9uhwhCndLdoSsTL9Zo/s1600/school+12-13+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3EBKglYb0mE2ASRv1re01rfHhzbVWDZ8rqkJy6-xXDdQ8i1cShrSd1QvJlFs_Ty7E1Ftm7cR2P9KJAPAVYTdK03c8Ws6nqrISLuczO9JZ12s35hEJnvwTFSpM9uhwhCndLdoSsTL9Zo/s320/school+12-13+008.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmwirLOYYcwOZ49hz7lEXXGUeD2zaglI6ZvJTDvkXbpaqVjIP-YS6SRCfNZEU_QK8ItLbV4Lmezz0i9neOUBg2UBM-d_lOwMtS7uXvhc6fs4lT5akuq3YbvaQkPeaVgqtzzG3LOZLFByQ/s1600/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmwirLOYYcwOZ49hz7lEXXGUeD2zaglI6ZvJTDvkXbpaqVjIP-YS6SRCfNZEU_QK8ItLbV4Lmezz0i9neOUBg2UBM-d_lOwMtS7uXvhc6fs4lT5akuq3YbvaQkPeaVgqtzzG3LOZLFByQ/s320/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" /></a></div><br />
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<br />Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-26949300456323881162012-07-23T00:00:00.000-04:002012-07-23T09:01:00.391-04:00Monday Made ItI'm linking up with Tara again at <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">4th Grade Frolics</a>. This week I was hoping to get my main project done but so far it's on hold until hubby can get his chop saw from our Pastor's house. In the meantime, I have been working tirelessly on my computer making new things. I made a movie film graphic that I am really enjoying, in fact I am using it to start a new blog. So there's my first creation, my new blog which is geared for Kindergarten. I just felt that this blog was going nowhere and I needed a new start and vision so hopefully, you will all head over there and follow me. It's a work in progress but I'm trying to make it completely me so it will evolve as I learn to make more graphics. Since my classroom has a Hollywood theme, I thought it would be fun to call it <a href="http://hoorayforkindergarten.blogspot.com/">Hooray for Kindergarten</a>. On the Hollywood theme I have also made schedule cards. Wish that I could share them with you but since I don't have the rights to distribute Thistle Girl (yet) I am unable. But this is what they look like. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzYPZJiWmepoJSQIYBAAMdWl1d4mmhK8Lq-8EtmDT-T5uqQ5YG1A4Q2Pkh_RkRdJ3k7B8fWpIwzZcmEJtDPZteFa7TfeGx8nk6gQ_HF3N4tThJuxq7Oi_EBc_Rv33mhR_TpbHIvUTieo/s1600/schedule+cards-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="250" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzYPZJiWmepoJSQIYBAAMdWl1d4mmhK8Lq-8EtmDT-T5uqQ5YG1A4Q2Pkh_RkRdJ3k7B8fWpIwzZcmEJtDPZteFa7TfeGx8nk6gQ_HF3N4tThJuxq7Oi_EBc_Rv33mhR_TpbHIvUTieo/s320/schedule+cards-6.jpg" /></a></div><br />
That's all for this blog. The remaining projects will have to be shared on my new blog later. I'm heading into my classroom tomorrow so I will have to finish tomorrow afternoon (hopefully). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5kQVcAI4mG6mcreeHL4yUcWi3AJ5oHd5E_TSDwk9se2BTiTFpWiGGRj6mksHYwA4Dt0O4JDm-1cR6ExX56ybJMYTz92EpZSK3nFCbJkLndjy1HLhZ854W7pFiOYvx9ook44Lq8UJP7EQ/s1600/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5kQVcAI4mG6mcreeHL4yUcWi3AJ5oHd5E_TSDwk9se2BTiTFpWiGGRj6mksHYwA4Dt0O4JDm-1cR6ExX56ybJMYTz92EpZSK3nFCbJkLndjy1HLhZ854W7pFiOYvx9ook44Lq8UJP7EQ/s320/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" /></a></div><br />Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-801045803180967112012-07-17T22:58:00.003-04:002012-07-18T16:44:37.900-04:00Another CreationWell this is my second post this week for Monday Made It but that's just goes to show how much fun it can be. So I've been bitten by the creativity bug. My wonderful hubby bought me a Bamboo for Christmas so I could make graphics. I've just now gotten around to learning how to use it with my oldest daughter's help of course. I have been wanting to get a new Word Wall with my Hollywood theme but can never find one I like so I made my own. I'm offering it for free in my <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Movie-themed-word-wall-headers">TPT store</a>. I'm having fun making things and if others want them then I am happy to share. Hope at least one of you can use this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaomFsyUJkSoVQ-cBGWTS1m33JSAPwCifqtPA0boMtNddLv9NBWL38UJmbg0oqcEjjn8-ewkVhQjPMfHmhgTOv0QK6s3P8OjehYO5hlLjY2gXxhzWuTqTUZhbHPyRehDthm6MsC31obk/s1600/movie+word+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="154" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaomFsyUJkSoVQ-cBGWTS1m33JSAPwCifqtPA0boMtNddLv9NBWL38UJmbg0oqcEjjn8-ewkVhQjPMfHmhgTOv0QK6s3P8OjehYO5hlLjY2gXxhzWuTqTUZhbHPyRehDthm6MsC31obk/s200/movie+word+wall.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now, what to make next...lol.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpn69RJTWCF3rraoLTJp4-OLH7xhRVESFaPZiOoPEttuT6fJJ-N2PtWwlgXYD-33C9WKb9ea7LxkNYzHj6UELcXoCQx8QNYr4P5y3yVJKTY8B-y08pXPOSiBWlaNzc81ZOfwh5XtKPluY/s1600/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpn69RJTWCF3rraoLTJp4-OLH7xhRVESFaPZiOoPEttuT6fJJ-N2PtWwlgXYD-33C9WKb9ea7LxkNYzHj6UELcXoCQx8QNYr4P5y3yVJKTY8B-y08pXPOSiBWlaNzc81ZOfwh5XtKPluY/s200/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" /></a></div><br />Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-76298142257257614852012-07-16T08:20:00.002-04:002012-07-16T08:25:03.181-04:00Monday Made It and a FreebieAfter finally linking up with Tara at <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/2012/07/monday-made-it-7-and-vacay.html">4th Grade Frolics</a> last week for her Monday Made It, I got so excited that I started right in on this weeks projects. I was hoping to have 3 done but with all the rain we have been getting here in Southwest Florida it's been difficult to get outside to paint or build so one project is on hold until next week (I hope). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJES-UVwzLONfiR04oI8zaE3thE5rkQeYNyggEywOSKzRdzxoQ2v-LcZq7e85UmiiZWb1HQnJXaT74QmUFMH7pX4TomkeLPX2G5x2VXsVTpSCpf800LQvwrge_KBQYAdx81hKq9tT8Tg/s1600/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJES-UVwzLONfiR04oI8zaE3thE5rkQeYNyggEywOSKzRdzxoQ2v-LcZq7e85UmiiZWb1HQnJXaT74QmUFMH7pX4TomkeLPX2G5x2VXsVTpSCpf800LQvwrge_KBQYAdx81hKq9tT8Tg/s200/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" /></a></div><br />
My first project I found on Pinterest (doesn't everybody..lol). Carly at <a href="http://www.firstgradefabulosity.blogspot.com/2012/04/spelling-station-idea.html">First Grade Fabulosity</a> posted this adorable mini pocket chart stand.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAfj3nKiJuLJulyQW3cL36JNI2ogh5s656mfw6OLRTyE3QLWUzggaOLXCEmhkf9VEzsjPZ2RSAnbrcFoAJELOIVj6hkThdVCUQJxnp5-1uOOdwcxHOko01nLlXD4A1fV8Xi1z1SL6PYA/s1600/mini+pocket+chart+frame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAfj3nKiJuLJulyQW3cL36JNI2ogh5s656mfw6OLRTyE3QLWUzggaOLXCEmhkf9VEzsjPZ2RSAnbrcFoAJELOIVj6hkThdVCUQJxnp5-1uOOdwcxHOko01nLlXD4A1fV8Xi1z1SL6PYA/s200/mini+pocket+chart+frame.jpg" /></a></div>I decided to modify it so that I could put 4 of the mini pocket charts from Target's Dollar spot that I got last year to use as a station either on a table or on the floor. This is how mine turned out minus the charts since they are locked away in my closet at school. <br />
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I hope this next week I will finally be able to get my keys back and hopefully change classrooms (God willing). The room I want to move into is made for Kindergarten but has been a 1st grade room. The counters and chalkboards are lower and there is an extra closet and let's face it Kindergarten needs LOTS of storage!<br />
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My other project I came up with as I was thinking about new ideas for my reading centers. I always teach my kids to stretch the words and then write down the sounds they hear so I came up with the Stretch a Word activity. Kids stretch the word and move the rubber band (or string) to the next brad for each sound. They hook the band on the brad with the final number of sounds (ex: if the word has 3 sounds they hook it on the #3 brad). Next they either write each sound with dry erase or use letter tiles or letters in each box to represent that sound. Finally they write the word all together on the bottom line. <br />
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You may need to secure the board to something stiff as it does tend to curl the board for longer words, either that or get longer rubber bands. I'm attaching the boards as a freebie. <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Stretch-a-Word">Click here</a> to go to my brand new store at TPT. This would be a great activity with picture cards or objects.<br />
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Since I opened at TPT store, I also decided to add the <a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-Star-Writing">All Star Writing posters</a> that I had in my Made It Monday post last week. I noticed that it had been pinned a couple times which excited me to no end. lol I had to change the graphics since I do not have a Thistle Girl reseller's license so it's a little generic.<br />
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<br />Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-42265155084672350712012-07-12T10:12:00.000-04:002012-07-12T10:12:05.686-04:00Versatile Blogger Award<br />
Thanks to Ms. Kidd at <a href="http://hanginoutinthirdgrade.blogspot.com/">Hanging Out in Third Grade</a> for nominating me for the Versatile Blogger award. This being my first award I wasn't entirely sure how it worked but she explained it beautifully in her blog. <br />
1. Thanks the person that nominated you- check<br />
2. Include a link back to their site- check<br />
3. Include the image of the award.- check<br />
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4.Give 7 random facts about yourself. - check<br />
*When I was in college I kept telling my professors I was going to be a kindergarten teacher and I have been for 15 years (plus 4 years of PreK).<br />
*I love creating things on the computer and wish I could making educational video games.<br />
*I am very active in my church working with the high school youth.<br />
*I have developed a love for cuban food over the years thanks to my hubby.<br />
*I have 2 daughters and 2 step sons from ages 15 (almost 16) to 20.<br />
*I have tons of scrapbooking stuff even though I no longer scrapbook but it does get used on other projects thanks to blogging and Pinterest.<br />
*My husband is truly my best friend and I thank God for him everyday.<br />
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5. Nominate 15 other bloggers for this award.- check<br />
<a href="http://cobbkindersprouts.blogspot.com/">Mrs.Cobb's Kinder Sprouts</a><br />
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<a href="http://time4kindergarten.blogspot.com/">Time 4 Kindergarten</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.teachingmaddeness.com/">Teaching Madness</a><br />
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<a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">4th Grade Frolics</a><br />
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<a href="http://heathersfirstgradeheart.blogspot.com/">Heather's First Grade Heart</a><br />
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<a href="http://kinderkraziness.blogspot.com/">Kinder Kraziness </a><br />
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<a href="http://littlelearnersinc.blogspot.com/">Little Treasures</a><br />
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<a href="http://mrshoffer.blogspot.com/">Mrs. Hoffer's Spot</a><br />
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<a href="http://todayinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/">Today in First Grade</a><br />
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<a href="http://whatilearnedinkindergarten.blogspot.com/">What I Learned in Kindergarten </a><br />
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<a href="http://kindersontheblock.blogspot.com/">Kinders on the Block</a><br />
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<a href="http://kindergals.blogspot.com/">Kinder Gals</a><br />
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<a href="http://read-write-sing.blogspot.com/">Read Write Sing</a><br />
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<a href="http://booky4first.blogspot.com/">booky4first</a><br />
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<a href="http://pencilsglueandtyingshoes.blogspot.com/">Pencils Glue and Tying Shoes</a><br />
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6. You need to link to their sites- check<br />
7. Finally you need to let them know- That will be my next step now that I finally finished everything else. :-)<br />
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<br />Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-9953513145801781262012-07-11T18:14:00.000-04:002012-07-11T18:14:20.106-04:00Motivated!Well, it finally happened, I got motivated. After joining Tara's <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">Made it Monday</a> linky party (see previous post), the juices started flowing. I may be making my hubby nervous but he's such a good sport he just ends up egging me on or making things better than I planned. It helps that he is a carpenter turned computer tech for the school system so he totally gets it. Some of my current projects are things I saw on Pinterest and am modifying for my personal use and then I have one that is a totally original idea and will hopefully turn out so that I can share it with others. :-) Can't wait to finish all these projects and share them on Monday. <br />
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<br />Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-2820407370856082332012-07-09T22:51:00.000-04:002012-07-09T22:51:27.966-04:00Getting Stuff DoneI am finally linking up with my friend Tara at <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/2012/07/monday-made-it-6.html">4th Grade Frolics</a>. I have been working on a few things but just hadn't had time to finish them up and take pictures. After looking at everyone else's wonderful creations, I decided I had better get my rear in gear. A couple of weeks ago someone had made a teacher binder (forgive me I don't remember who did it first) and thought, "now that's what I need, one spot for everything." I have a separate binder for my lesson plans but this one will hold everything else that I need to keep track of daily. Since the very first section is the calendar section, I also created a monthly calendar for the next school year to also help keep me on track. (I see a pattern here...hmmm.) <br />
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My last project this week is also going to serve as my writing rubric. I had seen signs similar to these on Pinterest but was unable to download them and then I realized that I wanted to make them more me and add to it. Can't wait to see what I can come up with next week.<br />
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On a different note, we just came back from Key West on Saturday but while we were down there we found a new place to explore. The Key West Toy Store is down by Mallory Square. It's upstairs in this little brick mall-like building right on the waterfront. After all these years we finally ventured up there and now I wonder why I never went before. It is seriously this magically wonderful place. Now mind you, I didn't buy anything cuz it's all overpriced but they did have some very cool things I've never seen before.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNgU7wqNt5T_-h84WgmZl1JMJafs5pXUIcEGZIYqM0xsHIEwRcuW7jkqEFIRxkOo2hFC9oNEHog1Hgk2YbyLZOjDAozr4MVg4LXHN5n35WxteyDX2e6OMqUQdDbB6Jg9m_2Acrr8UpvE/s1600/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNgU7wqNt5T_-h84WgmZl1JMJafs5pXUIcEGZIYqM0xsHIEwRcuW7jkqEFIRxkOo2hFC9oNEHog1Hgk2YbyLZOjDAozr4MVg4LXHN5n35WxteyDX2e6OMqUQdDbB6Jg9m_2Acrr8UpvE/s200/mondaymadeit2_240x240.png" /></a></div><br />Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-20219067060716320112012-07-05T14:34:00.002-04:002012-07-05T14:34:36.742-04:00Key West!Well, here I sit in paradise. I know, it's a tough job. lol We usually come down every summer for 3 or 4 days since we have a time share. I like to split it up between Key West and Bonita Springs but this summer I couldn't get into Bonita Springs so we are here for the whole week. My hubby was born and raised here so we don't consider ourselves tourists but visitors. We don't do the touristy things really other than walk down Duval. Our favorite places are 5 Brothers which is a little corner store on the corner of Grinnell and Southard St. which has THE best cafe con leche and breakfast sandwiches. We also love El Siboney which is a little mom and pop type cuban restaurant with food like my husband's grandmother use to make. We always get it to go though because 2 entrees will feed 4-6 of us with leftovers. Our final must go spot in the Kino Sandal factory in the Kino Plaza one block off Duval. We LOVE their handmade sandals and look forward to the new colors available every year. The past 2 years we have gone snorkeling at Ft. Zachary Taylor which is kind of like a hidden treasure. Sadly, I'm looking forward to getting home and making some new things for school. I know, I'm sick. Well, hopefully my next post will be showing some of the new treasures I have made.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-355160350226946982012-06-26T09:53:00.002-04:002012-06-26T09:58:30.808-04:00Slacking But Still BusyI feel like such a slacker. I don't keep up with my blogging and I've done little to nothing school related. Well, I guess that's not entirely true, I have downloaded and created a few thing for school. My friend, Tara at <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">Fourth Grade Frolics</a> has been hosting a Made It Monday linky party every week. I stalk her page and look at all the cool stuff people are making. Now mind you I do get some great ideas and make notes but that's about it. I guess part of this goes back to last summer. Last summer I started blogging as soon as school got out. I downloaded, shopped at any Target Dollar spot I could find, made stuff, and planned all summer long so that by the time school started I was pretty much burned out and none of it seemed to happen. I don't want that to happen this year so I'm taking it slow. <br />
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Last week, we were dealing with my father in law passing away. He has been sick for years and about 7 months ago Hospice took over because the VA said he had 6 months left and there was nothing they could do for him. Well he made it longer than they said and went peacefully in his sleep. So last week we were working on making things for his Celebration of Life. One lesson I took from all this is that now days you can't even afford to die. I was just shocked at the cost of everything! He was a veteran and the VA will pay for the brass casket, burial in the military cemetery and the headstone or marker but will NOT pay for cremation. You would think they would like the lower cost but I guess it's cheaper to say no. Sadly enough, my nieces who were very close to their grandfather had lost their father just 11 days earlier.<br />
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On a lighter note, we head to Key West on Sunday for a week. My house/dog sitter will be here taking care of everything. Hopefully this tropical storm will have moved far, far away and she doesn't have any friends nearby. My hubby grew up in Key West so it's always like going home. While most people go for the fishing, bars, night life...we go for the cuban food (El Siboney), cuban coffee (5 Brothers) and cuban made sandals (Kinos). Last year we were picking spanish limes and avocados out of a friend's yard. We are definitely not your typical tourists and spend very little time on Duval Street. Maybe I'll be inspired to do something after we come back since my daughters will be at camp.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-888237108357878682012-06-10T20:52:00.000-04:002012-06-10T20:52:13.267-04:00Long GapWell, a friend just asked if I still had my blog. I told her yes but hadn't posted in awhile. Imagine my surprise when I realize that my last post was in September. This was a very rough year for me and it seemed like everything just got away from me. I became a co-teach this year and I have to say that was the biggest mistake ever. There are too many reasons as to why it didn't work for me but that's not to say that it won't work for others. Anyway, since we could have up to 36 kids (in one room!) we got all the move ins and then they added 4 first graders to the mix. Needless to say I was chin deep in the RTI process for about half my class and getting nowhere fast. Relief slowly came throughout the year and I ended up with 18 kids by March. You would think with 2 teachers it would relieve some stress but it didn't.
Now I'm looking forward to a fresh new start next year and getting off on a new foot with all new administration. Yup, our teacher appreciation gifts this year were learning that we were losing our Principal and then 2 days later finding out they were moving our AP with him. So in the fall we will have new administration and a new Lead Teacher. It will all be fine (I hope).
So, 2 weeks into summer vacation, I've done some much needed cleaning and trying to make plans for next year's room. I got a Bamboo for Christmas so my goal is to learn how to use it and start making my own graphics. I can't wait! My daughter got certified in Photoshop this year before she graduated from high school so she can help me too. Now to just get back into the habit of blogging more regularly instead of just stalking everyone else's blogs. lolCindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-81158554776169973562011-09-24T18:02:00.000-04:002011-09-24T18:02:41.988-04:00WOW! Finally Back and Adding OnI just realized that it's been just over 3 weeks since I have posted to my blog. I'm not even sure where the time has gone but I do know that I'm exhausted. Starting Monday, I am a co-teach class. My new roommate starts on Monday. We finally got to meet Friday after school. I thought it might be a good idea instead of her walking in cold on Monday. I think we are going to get along great. I think she's just happy to have a home school as this will be her 4th school since school started in August. We will share 25 children, 21 K students and 4 First graders. I'm really excited to start this new venture. I tend to be more creative and venturous when there is someone there to help. I was also able to adjust my schedule so that my 5 speech kids weren't missing math during the week. Things are starting to look up. Now hopefully, I will be able to keep up here. Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-21354216322513380112011-09-01T20:47:00.000-04:002011-09-01T20:47:57.314-04:004 Weeks Later...So, I am finishing up my fourth week of kindergarten and I am still exhausted! I have finally finished FAIR testing but now have to finish FLKRS. ugh It's ridiculous that we have to spend the first month or so of school doing nothing but assessing. My class this year is pretty tough and immature. I feel like I am fighting for control all day long. They love the attention getters but the attention only lasts a brief moment and then it's gone. Really thinking I could use a Ritalin salt lick in the room. lol I really feel bad for the 3 or 4 mature students who would like to move on and not have to review the rules all day long. All they want to do is play all day. I've gotten to the point that free choice centers are at the end of the day and only if we are able to complete all our lessons. I've explained to them if they use my teaching time with talking and interrupting then we'll have to use our free choice time to finish our work. Does anyone have any suggestions for immature classes? <br />
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Today my friend, Tara from <a href="http://4thgradefrolics.blogspot.com/">4th Grade Folics</a> came to the classroom for Book Buddies. Her kids were paired up with my kiddos. It went great as the one thing my kids love, is to be read to. We are planning on doing it every 2 weeks when we don't get specials (due to budget cuts). It was nice to finally have a break where I was free to walk around and take pictures.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-63368080485141073902011-08-13T08:34:00.000-04:002011-08-13T08:34:36.614-04:00First Week and an Oops!Well, the first week is over and I survived. Monday we had parent meetings. There were 4 different meetings and parents were able to come to the classroom in small groups at an assigned meeting time to go through a kind of parent orientation. I went over my rules, routines, school procedures, what to expect, etc, etc. Tuesday and Wednesday I had 1/2 hour appointments with each child to screen them so that I know what they are coming in with academically. I always go over the information with the parent afterward so that they know how their child did and where we will go from here. As usual I have one who doesn't know the difference between a letter and a number as well as a couple who are already reading. The screening gives me an idea of where to start with each child. It also provides me with a tool to show growth over the next couple months. <br />
Thursday I had 9 kids and Friday I had 7 kids (2 didn't show up due to being out of town). We are fortunate to have this staggered entrance so that we can go over rules, routines and the cafeteria in small groups. It is definitely like herding cats. I'm nervous to see what Monday will bring. I've already spotted certain behaviors that will have to be curtailed and yes, I even had to use my ugly voice.<br />
Now, let me just say that by Friday afternoon I was thoroughly exhausted and the day seemed really long. I have one little guy who has never been to preschool or even left with anyone other than mom. He spent all of his free choice time walking around the table. I finally got him to sit briefly and draw a picture (scribble since he's never used crayons before). When he was done he got up and walked around the table some more then came and told me that his mother was waiting for him. I assured him that we only had a little while more. When I called for the kids to clean up he was the first to grab his lunchbox and was ready to head out the door. We went through the routine of getting our backpacks, putting our STAR folder in our backpacks, making sure our chairs were pushed in and our seats were neat. I explained where everybody was going to go (parent pickup in the hall, bus and YMCA kids with me). I had a couple that just couldn't get through their heads that they were NOT getting on the bus but going to YMCA after we dropped the one child off at his bus. Anyway, I put the parent pickup kids name hats on them and took them to the hallway and sat them down. I just couldn't figure out why no one else was heading out yet and then it hit me. I was an hour early! So feeling stupid but explaining that even teachers make mistakes, I sent them back in and let them go play at stations. They were thrilled. Maybe by next week I'll learn how to tell time. lol Well, at least I made it through the first week. Only 175 more days of school..hahaCindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-33102912330981378882011-08-04T20:29:00.000-04:002011-08-04T20:29:34.339-04:00Open House and Finishing ClassroomWell, tonight was Open House. I had 10 out of 18 families show up in addition to even more former students and their families. It's going to be an interesting year. Still hard to see how it will all fit together. The boys seemed to get along very well playing with the Legos together. My room finally started coming together right at the end of the day and right before the parents arrived. My closet on the other hand now needs help since I stuffed a lot of the mess in there for the time being. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9PIm5mRDeXsoaKqPW2AC26sWi3xTleoP9mvzUbS02zR_fcGr6xmHN92hHjlVwZqUFOZ5GaLbZixdFe66Y42WOwrmEcG4A2sP3kqH03EIqL2EhHREjFkqGVI7nPSUOBN0wUy7Olnjglg/s1600/motorcycle+and+class+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9PIm5mRDeXsoaKqPW2AC26sWi3xTleoP9mvzUbS02zR_fcGr6xmHN92hHjlVwZqUFOZ5GaLbZixdFe66Y42WOwrmEcG4A2sP3kqH03EIqL2EhHREjFkqGVI7nPSUOBN0wUy7Olnjglg/s200/motorcycle+and+class+005.JPG" /></a></div>These are my book buddy bags hanging on the stand that my wonderful hubby made for me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZJhb2H-Iwr_iZHvpk0QHRSqxLyaap4LpwBZAwaNnbmUH7vx1zrv2-IWtK1ZSpmFzjq6_O_OCysWA4gQPRpdxvdTu_c4-biiIPdF0PY10eB_Wbsq5E1Z9b8iehqAh6JIxULNNrYMe6lE/s1600/motorcycle+and+class+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZJhb2H-Iwr_iZHvpk0QHRSqxLyaap4LpwBZAwaNnbmUH7vx1zrv2-IWtK1ZSpmFzjq6_O_OCysWA4gQPRpdxvdTu_c4-biiIPdF0PY10eB_Wbsq5E1Z9b8iehqAh6JIxULNNrYMe6lE/s200/motorcycle+and+class+007.JPG" /></a></div>My writing center, my hubby built the table years ago so that one side is chalkboard and the other side is dry erase. The table top lifts up and flips over to change.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipV8EPLTNmk1xeVT8l_JkSfTo2cVmo9pUIQrpOfZKR-3ETbBfYHBkitDfYIsdT3m4sKe2UBGW_ekKo2n5IRDG4RdswSybethzfbWfiTt5RqPdSsjVhpjylwwzA3PXreb1MyZxmdDt7xAM/s1600/motorcycle+and+class+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipV8EPLTNmk1xeVT8l_JkSfTo2cVmo9pUIQrpOfZKR-3ETbBfYHBkitDfYIsdT3m4sKe2UBGW_ekKo2n5IRDG4RdswSybethzfbWfiTt5RqPdSsjVhpjylwwzA3PXreb1MyZxmdDt7xAM/s200/motorcycle+and+class+008.JPG" /></a></div>Calendar and group activity area, my hubby built the chair too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPTLm0KOBvWf8myJUV2hL5_kVJn2ZOqLbBptCY8Iq24a-wHIj6B0Hj_0VwwAUnK-WaNBoHtaNAIeN9xuTr1kiErspIsTsXYWNknmyilZVyeUoo_-NIJn_shM9odfiOOsPefZ2bBM4ouYQ/s1600/motorcycle+and+class+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPTLm0KOBvWf8myJUV2hL5_kVJn2ZOqLbBptCY8Iq24a-wHIj6B0Hj_0VwwAUnK-WaNBoHtaNAIeN9xuTr1kiErspIsTsXYWNknmyilZVyeUoo_-NIJn_shM9odfiOOsPefZ2bBM4ouYQ/s200/motorcycle+and+class+010.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEZ1wFiadAfUSEMN6Lut1QiGUvQ-tTQ435ughZHZxJCtI3iJmw9CmplTejuY5gCURFnHepLD3fdohU-nAVen5p6PN8acpRRNosJ1CRlJPv2qR6KeApMci2g-ao-nSvuds3OvwDQCXFp0/s1600/motorcycle+and+class+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEZ1wFiadAfUSEMN6Lut1QiGUvQ-tTQ435ughZHZxJCtI3iJmw9CmplTejuY5gCURFnHepLD3fdohU-nAVen5p6PN8acpRRNosJ1CRlJPv2qR6KeApMci2g-ao-nSvuds3OvwDQCXFp0/s200/motorcycle+and+class+014.JPG" /></a></div>View from across the room.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjTaBz7DC8avl6R76SZVOlbDIbRRFcWrclla9HPN1zu_6O7X2lkkSIY_ez_Q6DxNffBbzTlUukw9rg7u8Z7Wc9AxY4WXtMYVcSAksM116ImF0FdHwq5ilzUiR-yF6fYeUhLuc4684tnc/s1600/motorcycle+and+class+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjTaBz7DC8avl6R76SZVOlbDIbRRFcWrclla9HPN1zu_6O7X2lkkSIY_ez_Q6DxNffBbzTlUukw9rg7u8Z7Wc9AxY4WXtMYVcSAksM116ImF0FdHwq5ilzUiR-yF6fYeUhLuc4684tnc/s200/motorcycle+and+class+015.JPG" /></a></div>I gave a bag to each new student that came for Open House.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFsZjfhad5FcbGQSuypsAyDPT8K5B-kw7Yeh67GtO1YMPKoEnQ2YhKR9p3P8O6NgEpFT-_HSXyoP4Hzlw1KYLKfj4GNQLeDf5W20eDbYuCJ3XBfAKh05hjPPdAqdRuNIIPJmm8sHsgB0/s1600/motorcycle+and+class+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFsZjfhad5FcbGQSuypsAyDPT8K5B-kw7Yeh67GtO1YMPKoEnQ2YhKR9p3P8O6NgEpFT-_HSXyoP4Hzlw1KYLKfj4GNQLeDf5W20eDbYuCJ3XBfAKh05hjPPdAqdRuNIIPJmm8sHsgB0/s200/motorcycle+and+class+011.JPG" /></a></div>Another view, hubby built the listening center table as well.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-5719823331246688542011-08-03T21:40:00.000-04:002011-08-03T21:40:30.717-04:00ArrrgggghhhhOh my goodness, I'm soooo exhausted that I started nodding off tonight during youth group at church. Even as I sit here writing this, I'm nodding off so this should be short. <br />
I have so much to do and tomorrow night is Open House. My custodian walked in today and asked if I was done. I seriously thought she was joking since it was very obvious that I was anything but ready. Then she preceded to tell me that I couldn't put things here or there. I basically told her too bad, they were staying where I put them. Tomorrow there are no meetings so I'm planning on cranking up my music and busting it out. I think right now I'm on complete overload. Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to finish taking pictures and post them on here. In the meantime, I'm heading to bed for a fresh start tomorrow.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-86961332651276025602011-07-31T22:11:00.000-04:002011-07-31T22:11:43.281-04:00Here we go!Well, tomorrow I officially go back to work. I've been working on and off in my room for 2 weeks but tomorrow it's official. In one aspect I dread the end of summer but on the other side I look forward to a new group of kids and a much needed paycheck. Today my wonderful hubby and I spent about 4 1/2 hours building a stand for my Book Buddy Bags. For years I have kept them in bins but they were hard to see so I wanted a stand to display them on. My husband was in construction for years before he became a computer tech so he's a VERY handy man to have around. He's always been great about building things for my classroom as long as I draw a picture of what I want. I must say I was thinking really simple but he made it so much better. The book bags get very heavy so I knew I wanted something sturdy that would last. Luckily, we had some purple heart wood in the garage that had been sitting untouched for years. I love exotic woods and this is a very hard iron wood. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1ndYkRe6tZ16d8wa5uzZoYMN98Jkond0r-zbzigKxhPyFReIw5k_Zabnstu676k_8LYaSGsTP8MJornRSecDFUpzzmtPu5YKdVOH8nxWGqFStANawAS50S2oxqyspxdQ17NMO15fGl8/s1600/IMAG0114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1ndYkRe6tZ16d8wa5uzZoYMN98Jkond0r-zbzigKxhPyFReIw5k_Zabnstu676k_8LYaSGsTP8MJornRSecDFUpzzmtPu5YKdVOH8nxWGqFStANawAS50S2oxqyspxdQ17NMO15fGl8/s200/IMAG0114.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This is the base of the stand. Unfortunately it's too big to fit in my suv so hubby will have to bring it to me after he's done at his school tomorrow.<br />
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This is the final product. The dowels are just regular pine. I can't wait to finally have all my book bags hanging on it. I will post a pic when I finally get it in my room.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-79940638382048724152011-07-29T13:57:00.003-04:002011-07-29T14:09:17.110-04:00Back to School What's for Dinner?Well, I've come across 2 linky parties asking for recipes for things you cook on a busy schedule. <a href="http://growingkinders.blogspot.com/2011/07/its-back-to-school-timewhat-about.html">Growing Kinders</a> and <a href="http://clutterfreeclassroom.blogspot.com/2011/07/whole-lotta-linky-party-day-4-of-5.html">Clutter Free Classroom</a> are each hosting one. I thought, "Now that's what I need!" So to add to the list I thought I would add my easy go to recipe. I'm not sure that it is exactly a precise recipe as I tend to fall more into the add a little of this or little of that kind of cooking. My family loves it when I experiment. My crock pot is definitely my best friend in the kitchen. There are no exact measurements as I usually throw in what I have. <br />
<br />
Southwest Chicken Soup<br />
Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 per person is about what I plan for)<br />
1 T. chopped garlic<br />
1 cup salsa (whatever your favorite is)<br />
salt and pepper<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
Cover and put on low for 5-6 hours. Shred chicken and put back in pot. <br />
Add<br />
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed<br />
1 can corn drained<br />
1 carton or can of chicken stock (amount depends on how much chicken)<br />
1 can crushed tomatoes<br />
1 tsp oregano<br />
1/2 tsp cumin<br />
Cover and cook for another hour.<br />
<br />
You can serve with sour cream and shredded cheese or rice if you would like. All amounts can be adjusted to your personal taste. Like I said, there is a lot of throwing this and that in when I cook. Time is also flexible. I put this on in the morning before I leave and then come home and add the final ingredients and let it finish.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-I0XSQgYLRO0/Ti7V4WQP5MI/AAAAAAAADJ0/DQHxTyhUXII/image_thumb%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="204" width="204" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-I0XSQgYLRO0/Ti7V4WQP5MI/AAAAAAAADJ0/DQHxTyhUXII/image_thumb%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZfIr7MCXuBXApbsCVKhfJ16jC4uMySTkQZf8YyJeYZYbs6yx_lqhdKwlt_g6WQ_SrhQVhhXzxrGCghIVc2b12aCRtl8htbPsSCOrdV9HsUp18cUP9OKKuFcQFLL4U9Vt_MdAnzoe_rmR/s1600/create_a_CFC_button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="175" width="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZfIr7MCXuBXApbsCVKhfJ16jC4uMySTkQZf8YyJeYZYbs6yx_lqhdKwlt_g6WQ_SrhQVhhXzxrGCghIVc2b12aCRtl8htbPsSCOrdV9HsUp18cUP9OKKuFcQFLL4U9Vt_MdAnzoe_rmR/s1600/create_a_CFC_button.jpg" /></a></div>Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-6647641665237638092011-07-29T13:13:00.000-04:002011-07-29T13:13:24.977-04:00Countdown and new theme<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJajHJA3qtMyjTWEp4tU7PB1zj63-KTIcv7gg72REHKhhn7Vh0t_L9SbsqdzWEFsaQskrj9YFNfvjenzStXRpTpSPLhnZTbSWeYMpuDnBIU5lOitvPMv0bs4xymQg-zOj8-38HTU0UYF0/s1600/hw8_film1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="97" width="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJajHJA3qtMyjTWEp4tU7PB1zj63-KTIcv7gg72REHKhhn7Vh0t_L9SbsqdzWEFsaQskrj9YFNfvjenzStXRpTpSPLhnZTbSWeYMpuDnBIU5lOitvPMv0bs4xymQg-zOj8-38HTU0UYF0/s200/hw8_film1.gif" /></a></div>Well, even though I officially go back to work on Monday (1st), I have been in and out of my classroom for the past 2 weeks. (Sorry, I keep forgetting to take pictures.) At this point, the furniture is where it's going to be (for now), but there is a lot more to do to decorate and organize. Today I am busy printing and laminating as much stuff as I can to get me started. I decided to change my classroom theme this year to go along with our Rising Stars program at school. I decided on a Hollywood theme because what kid doesn't want to be a movie star. lol I am also trying to modify or make as much as possible so that I didn't have to spend more money on new things. So far I am very excited and the ideas just keep coming. For my helpers I decided to rename the jobs. My line leaders will be the Lead Actor and Lead Actress, the door holder is the usher, office helpers are the production assistants, clean up people are the set designers. The kids that receive the award each month will be put on the Walk of Fame. The lunch boxes will be placed in the concession area. Their name tags are on lanyards and are used as office passes will also have Backstage pass on the back. My behavior plan will start the kids with 2 thumbs up, then one up and one down and finally 2 thumbs down. I am having so much fun with this. I'm also making a poster for outside my door to look like a movie marquis with all the kids names in their own star. If anyone has any other ideas let me know. I will take pictures next week as I get it all set up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLzmqXGDkSERJY97CF9FCZKdc3glKCzXgf1F3UjMPcuxCQbUfb6YVt0sRmgSPNmqtNE8ntAg7kxIFWKzxFTmAmOhpsBEsUQyAc9JgUmMAJJpHVFlr3y1eNftTEIqZYTx1K26ZsjQvPJNk/s1600/hw8_kids2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLzmqXGDkSERJY97CF9FCZKdc3glKCzXgf1F3UjMPcuxCQbUfb6YVt0sRmgSPNmqtNE8ntAg7kxIFWKzxFTmAmOhpsBEsUQyAc9JgUmMAJJpHVFlr3y1eNftTEIqZYTx1K26ZsjQvPJNk/s200/hw8_kids2.gif" /></a></div>Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-70733153510048700332011-07-21T21:28:00.000-04:002011-07-21T21:28:46.254-04:00Giveaway Freebie<a href="http://www.anotherdayinfirstgrade.blogspot.com/">Just Another Day in First Grade</a> is having a giveaway freebie. It's very simple. All you have to do is blog about her freebie and tell her you did before Sunday night and she will send it to you on Monday. It's an entire unit on shoes. What kid doesn't love to show off their shoes? See which shoes match, which ones are new, light up, have Spiderman? The possibilities are endless. I also figure this will go well with Pete the Cat's Shoes. I love it when it all comes together. Head on over to her site to get all the info and the blog to get you very own unit for FREE!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxFPc3pmiNchqblw3d28Lcu3fF7Ye7WgB2OonqfSRkMnUqApXn3b6ixoZWkIla0t4M_7mWtm8LPhxBApGeTES769AR-Fd1dz9-jxa8t9tmZ1pXRrG-9uW-oz1vVA0OCvo8W-C73uS4Zo/s640/shoooooees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxFPc3pmiNchqblw3d28Lcu3fF7Ye7WgB2OonqfSRkMnUqApXn3b6ixoZWkIla0t4M_7mWtm8LPhxBApGeTES769AR-Fd1dz9-jxa8t9tmZ1pXRrG-9uW-oz1vVA0OCvo8W-C73uS4Zo/s640/shoooooees.jpg" /></a></div>Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-78019910819620841242011-07-19T22:45:00.000-04:002011-07-19T22:45:23.675-04:00Freebie from meOur school became a Positive Behavior Support school last year. Our Assistant principal started an assembly called Rising STARS. Each month we highlight one of the Seven Habits and choose a student who displays that trait. This year I thought I would take it one step further and make a poster to show my students which rules fall under each of the positive behaviors. Feel free to <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/60403996">download</a> if you would like. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqOx64PvmYhUbLLcrNVIS9x0TmlUq-3J3yZjZj8qIWc7c4Fy_H_x93HdpHLy0OHObiKcSGHzrL0RMoo3xJ7MPmnsYIQuhvp3bAENGtG_iTyGQYtTc5zZb3lsOqQyfUCp-kll9HmGGy3g0/s1600/STARS+rules+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqOx64PvmYhUbLLcrNVIS9x0TmlUq-3J3yZjZj8qIWc7c4Fy_H_x93HdpHLy0OHObiKcSGHzrL0RMoo3xJ7MPmnsYIQuhvp3bAENGtG_iTyGQYtTc5zZb3lsOqQyfUCp-kll9HmGGy3g0/s200/STARS+rules+poster.jpg" /></a></div>Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3410653624654128475.post-69797942868195763112011-07-19T21:47:00.000-04:002011-07-19T21:47:32.134-04:00Getting ReadyWell, today I went to school to pick up my keys. I ended up going back later to drop off all the things I have purchased at Target, Dollar Tree, Lakeshore, Walmart and Kohls. While I was there I moved a little furniture just to get an idea of where I want things. I feel the need to revamp my room. I guess I'm never satisfied. I'm always looking for a better plan but I can't do it on paper. I have to see and feel it to know if I like it or it's going to work. I'll probably head back on Thursday to work on it some more. Tomorrow, I'll be moving furniture at my parents' house. They had the carpets cleaned so we went Monday to move it all out of the rooms and then back tomorrow to put it back. Maybe I should look into furniture moving as a summer job next year. lol I can't wait to get into my closets at school and start setting things up. Sadly, I like my room to be put together by the first day teachers go back so I can socialize and start planning. I know, I'm sick.Cindy Solomonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15166089360879992292noreply@blogger.com3