A Weekend Away

This past weekend, we traveled to my parents house to spend time with family and attend a friend's wedding.  It was a fantastic weekend spent playing water volleyball and corn hole, eating TONS of great food, and beating my sister and her friend in Hand and Foot.  I LOVE spending time with my family and being in the place where I grew up.  We eat chips from Hacienda, get ice cream from The Chief, and play tennis at my former high school because those are the best parts of Elkhart! Here are some pictures of our time at my parent's home.

 Dad and Sarah.

 Lauren and Mom.

 This is typical.  Beanbags no where near the target.

 Best pic of my dad EVER.

 Bro and Sis.

 Hubby and Sis.

 Hubby and I before the wedding.

Hope your weekend was fantastic and restful!! :)

Teaching Writing

As I begin preparing for my 2nd year of teaching 1st grade, I am focusing on how to improve my writing instruction.  We did units practicing narrative writing, non-fiction writing, poetry, and letters last year, and I am hoping to expound upon these next year.  I am also beginning to incorporate the Common Core Writing Standards.  If you are interested in some GREAT writing resources, check out this giveaway from Falling into First!

Symphony on the Prairie

We had the distinct privilege of taking Joe's former piano teacher and his wife to Symphony on the Prairie this past weekend to hear Rhapsody in Blue.  We were blessed with beautiful weather and had a great time fellowshipping together!

 Joe and Mr. Gale

 Us.

 Them.

Our adorable picnic basket passed down from Joe's side of the family.

Why I love Summer...

1.  I love the sunshine and warm (HOT) weather, though right now we really need some rain.
2.  I LOVE all of the fresh produce and the ability to be outside and be more active.
3.  Berries.
4. As a teacher, I am not working full time right now, just doing a few side jobs.
5.  Time at the pool.
6.  Concerts with my man.
7.  Staying up later and getting up without an alarm. 
8.  Having LUNCH with my husband.
9. Having more time to be with friends and family.
10.  Reading, sewing, and having more time for HOBBIES!!
11. Cleaning out the apartment, getting the cars serviced, and other chores that don't get done during the school year.

Here are some pictures of our summer so far and of the house we hope to move into in September.  We are so thankful for all of these tremendous blessings that the Lord has given us and can't wait to share our home with others!!

If you would like a free music download, please check out my husband, Joe Paulson's latest music at noisetrade.com/joepaulsonthefallout.