What a week!

I always knew four day weeks felt longer than your typical five day week. But last week (Labor Day was Monday) felt like forever. The kids were chattier than normal and I learned a lot of lessons. I graded my first tests which I was so proud of. I created questions that I knew we had talked about...and talked about...and talked about. Nothing was new or a surprise. I even asked the students when I handed them back. I was proud of them for being honest. They were honest about when they started studying (the night before the test). They were honest that they had seen everything that was on the test. It was a reality check for me. And for the students. Summer is over. That is for sure. I also have to remember that these students are still a little bit in summer mode. I am ready for a great week this week. We have started studying Sound and the students are very excited about making musical instruments. I feel like it is definitely an age old assignment, however, I remember making one when I was in elementary school so I am hoping to give these students a similar memory of what I had.

Labor Day weekend was fun though! It's FINALLY football season again! This is the time of year I wait for all year long! A friend came from South Carolina (and is a Gamecocks fan...I am slowly trying to stage an intervention) and went to the game with me. We tailgated as much as we could for a 12:21 kickoff and then settled into our seats.

We were very fortunate because our seats were in the shade, but the Dawgs didn't do as well as planned...in my mind. I told Corey we might leave around halftime because they would probably have enough of a lead that it was safe to do some afternoon shopping. But I was shocked and surprised that we stayed until the end of the third quarter. The Dawgs did not have a big enough lead for me to be comfortable leaving at half time. However, the game ended well and we left after the third quarter. Got downtown with enough time to do a little shopping and then meet some friends for an early dinner. It was a great day that ended with some lounging around and catching up with "Meet the Parents" and craft tips. I also got to spend some time with good friends and had a cookout at my parent's house. I love three day weekends...in a selfish way. I got laundry done. Lessons planned. And had time to spend with family and friends.

This past weekend was another chill weekend which I have come to LOVE and look forward to. I had a night at home Friday night and was able to gawk at the dresses, prices, and attitudes at "Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta." Started my leveled library for my classroom too...that is going to be a huge chore, but well worth it so my students know what books are right for them. Right now, it is a cluttered mess. I got to spend some time with a good family. Max (the dog I am dog sitting for a very extended period of time) took the mini vacation with me and we packed up and went to Atlanta. He got some new treats (a deer antler-who knew dogs loved those, and a new bone) and got a bath! He was not a fan of the dryers at the bath so he had to air dry. But he doesn't smell like a dead animal or mud so it was well worth it. I am now mentally preparing for another week...another week of grading...another week of being a positive role model for my students...another week of laughter and "Ms. Gunter, where did you get your dress? Can I come shop in your closet?" I am looking forward to another week with my fourth grade team and students! Look for a new post hopefully sooner rather than later :).