coffeyhouse

100th Day.. a couple weeks late :)

2012-02-15T19:04:00.000-08:00

We celebrated the 100th day of Kindergarten....10 school days ago so about 2 weeks ago I guess. :) Better late than never! Trying to do a better job of taking pictures of things at school but so many of my pics have kids in them, which I don't post on here. :(

A fun/cute writing piece the kids did was When I am 100 years old, I will....

A few of my favorites:

When I am 100 years old, I will...

be dead.
be bored.
be rocking in my rocking chair.
be an artist.

And we made a 100th day salad! All the kids brought in 100 of a food/candy item and added it bag by bag. Super fun and super yummy- always an interesting mix of snacks. :)

We've been adding ice cream scoops since the first day of school- the flavor changes with each group of 10 and the kids FREAK out when the flavor changes- always a big deal. :) So of course, it's only right to have an ice cream party at the end of the day.

Hope the rest of you teachers out there had fun celebrating your 100th day!

Donors Choose

2012-02-12T20:41:00.000-08:00

I can't remember if I ever posted to update you all on the fact that I got my first Donors Choose project funded!! It was unbelievable! Any of you teachers out there- TRY IT! It takes some work to get your project up and going/uploaded but once that's done, it's downhill from there (just a waiting game!) I uploaded my first project ( 2 sets of books on CD) this summer and had it funded right before Thanksgiving- so exciting. I just finished my "thank you package" and the kids wrote thank you letters to the donors- so cute. Anyways, I just uploaded my second project- a listening station (mine is completely falling apart- can you spell makeshift?)

Check it out! :) http://www.donorschoose.org/mrscoffeyskindergarten

Baby Gifts Galore: Project #1 ABC Name Frame DIY

2012-02-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

I am completely slacking on blogging, I know- but once you see what I've been working on nonstop you'll understand why! :) I know 10 people, yes, 10- who are expecting between this upcoming Friday and July. This means lots of baby gift making and showers! I am hosting a Dr. Seuss themed shower this Saturday and an ABC one at school next Wednesday. Pics of those to come!

First, I wanted to share something I made and gave to a friend who is expecting her first baby (a little girl, Eden) on Friday! I saw this idea on Pinterest and recreated it. What do you think?

Easy peasy project:

I used Microsoft word to do the letters (download cute fonts lots of places, I like dafont.com amongst others). Do the baby's name letter in one color and the "is for ___" in the same color. Print, cut down, and glue on scrapbook paper (I suggest gluestick! I about ruined this once with regular Elmers). Place in frame (got mine from Hobby Lobby) and there you go! Too darn cute, I think! :)

Posts to come:

Dr. Seuss themed shower
ABC themed shower
KSU (K-State) baby tag blankets
Nursing cover DIY
Decor galore!

Back to Blogging

2012-01-29T17:18:00.000-08:00

Please excuse my extremely long absence, as I have been down and out with the flu (or some horrible virus with the same symptoms)- 8 days of straight fever and symptoms, just lovely. Anyways, I was back at school this past week and have been playing catch up- no time for blogging unfortunately.

Life update:

School Life:

Things have been busy, busy in Kindergarten. We are celebrating the 100th day on Tuesday, should be a blast- the actual 100th day is tomorrow but we have an early release day Tuesday (kids leave at 2) so thought that may be more manageable for many reasons. :) Hype and sugar them up and then send them out the door. I leave Wednesday for Denver for the Colorado Literacy Conference- Wed-Sat with a team from my school. Should be a blast and a great learning experience.

Cooking Life:

Just made one of my favorite recipes (kudos to Kandace)- Lemon Chicken Orzo for tonight- yum, yum. Tuesday night will be Crispy Cheddar Chicken (one of our new favorites- it's to die for).

Another one I've made recently that was easy peasy and DELICIOUS was this:
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna Rolls

The website this recipe is from is fantastic- it's called Jamie Cooks It Up! and her recipes are incredible and incredibly easy, too. Highly recommend. :)

Crafting Life:

Currently working on two baby showers for my good friend at school- one for her at-school shower, the other will be at my house. The school one is ABC themed and the one here is Dr. Seuss themed. She isn't finding out what she's having so gender-neutral it shall be. :) She asked me if I could make her a nursing cover so I'll be using this tutorial: prudentbaby.com to make her one! Should be interesting! All this baby stuff is new, new, new to me...

hopefully it turns out something like this! we'll see!

and that's about it my friends. I spend most of my time online on pinterest these days- if you're interested, check out the top right hand corner of my blog and see what I'm pinning! :)

Exciting News from TOMS...!

2012-01-10T18:27:00.000-08:00

So this just made my night:

TOMS will be coming out with FLATS in the spring!!! :) :)

click here for the link

Dinner Tonight: Crispy Cheddar Chicken compliments of Pinterest

2012-01-02T14:41:00.000-08:00

click here for direct link to recipe

I've been looking forward to making this for awhile now since I pinned it a couple weeks ago. :) Sad the things I look forward to sometimes- hehe. Will make this tonight along with some steamed veggies and maybe some homemade applesauce.

Today is my last day before school starts back- my apologies to any teachers who had to go back today- that is very sad. I am super tired today for some reason- probably because my body knows what's coming and decided might as well get tired now. haha

Hope everyone had a safe and fun New Year's- we had a wonderful time at my grandparents' house. Definitely ready for the New Year to begin and to get rolling on all things new. Goal this year is to learn how to wind down and relax- something that comes natural for normal people but not this one, unfortunately.

Happy New Year and I'll let you know how this chicken turns out. :) Trying 2 other yummy Pinterest recipes this week, as well. Yum, yum.

Chicago Trip/Home Alone house visit!

2012-01-01T21:31:00.000-08:00

After Christmas, we headed to Chicagho to visit my wonderful in-laws- we had the best time.

Below are a few high light pics. :)

downtown Naperville

visiting Le Chocolat for the first time- classic coacoa and Bailey's Irish Creme cake

inside Le Chocolat

The Coffey's beautiful tree

One night this month while we were watching our annual viewing of Home Alone (Chris and I's all time fave)- Chris looked up the Home Alone house online and found that it was actually for sale! Or at least recently. We decided to plan a little visit to a few of the places from the movie- we had so much fun exploring Winnetka (spelling?) and seeing the house of the movie we are both still obsessed with.

church from the movie- Trinity Methodist (where Kevin hides out front in the nativity scene from the bad guys) :)

walking to "THE" house!

still has the Santa on the front door!!

"AHHHH!!!"

Picture from the movie:

most gorgeous home

the "Murphy's" house across the street

Too fun. :)

Quick Christmas 2011 in review...

2011-12-26T15:50:00.000-08:00

We hosted Christmas Eve dinner at our house this year- was super fun and the dinner turned out great (made what I had mentioned in my post a few days ago). Nothing fancy, but the punch and appetizers were good! I wouldn't highly recommend the punch- people raved about it on recipes.com but I thought it was so-so. Drinkable, but so so. :) I would call it more "Ho Ho Hum.." than "Ho Ho Ho Punch."

Here's our table, all set and ready to go. We used our wedding china for the first time!

love the napkin rings my mom gave me for Christmas awhile ago

Lounging before dinner- one of Scott's many happy expressions :)

Out.

We had dinner, went to 7:00 service which was beautiful- then came home to get the dog and head to my parents' for the night!

My mom's gorgeous Christmas amaryllis (spelling?)

Christmas morning- who's the new one in the family? Can you tell by the stockings? hehe ;)

My Granddad and I :)

Ready to go wake up Uncle Scott..

"Wake up, it's CHRISTMAS!!!"

A few Christmas highlight pics:

Grandmother in her new down robe- can't figure out how to turn this the right way...

Dad's picture of Bill Synder (KSU) stadium- so cool

Scout and his new "baby"

My annual calendar to Granddad and Grandmother

I love Scott's face- he did a hilarious "job" wrapping this year (bags with a piece of wrapping paper inside covering the gift- no tissue paper)

Granddad- 90 and with a Nook! Doesn't get more impressive than that.

One of my gifts to Chris- head scratcher. Was quite a hit. lol

Inside joke but if you have free time, YouTube "Honey Badger"- hilarious.

Surprise gift from Dad to Mom

Christmas dinner- yum. Thank you, Mom!

On my way to getting well, Chris on his way to getting sick... sad group.

Scout had a good day.

Christmas Day Eve- watching the KSU basketball game.

Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas, as well!

playing with the new camera..

2011-12-26T14:12:00.000-08:00

So I talked with an old friend from middle school and she gave me a tip- she tries to only use natural light if she can. I played with that a bit this afternoon and here's a couple neat shots I got. This camera is DEFINITELY going to be a learning process!!

Christmas Eve Eve

2011-12-23T20:43:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas EARLY! :)

2011-12-23T14:08:00.000-08:00

(wow, do I look like I've been sick or what?)

Christmas came early! Chris insisted on me opening a gift before Christmas (which I am very opposed to- I am a traditionalist through and through) but gave in an opened a box with a camera case in it. I was a little confused. He managed to get a Nikon D70 used from a photographer for a complete steal! We have been talking about getting a professional camera for awhile now and it was a complete surprise to open this this afternoon!!

Now it is very overwhelming- learning how to use the 9,000 gadgets. Does anyone have any tips or websites they use to help them learn their DSLR?

Merry Christmas to us- early!!! :)

The subject of my projects to come, I'm sure.

Christmas Eve Dinner at the Coffey's

2011-12-23T08:09:00.000-08:00

Can you believe Christmas Eve is tomorrow? I have finally started to recover from my third sinus infection since October (lovely)- combined with a delighful cold- and have been pretty down and out with that since Tuesday. I am thrilled to wake up today and feel like I have a little life back in me- which I will need to host my wonderful fam for dinner tomorrow night. :)

We aren't doing anything fancy but we will be using our nice china from our wedding (that never gets used) and I'm making a couple of specialities compliments of Pinterest. Here is our yummy/easy menu!

Drinks: Ho Ho Punch

http://allrecipes.com/Cook/18491816/Photo.aspx?photoID=549686

Appetizer: Artichoke Bread

http://www.closetcooking.com/2010/01/artichoke-bread.html

Main Course: Stauffer's Lasagna :) who said everything has to be homemade?

Sides: Ceasar salad and Italian bread

What are you having for Christmas Eve dinner?

Kansas City Symphony Christmas Concert

2011-12-22T08:43:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, my parents treated us to a beautiful Christmas concert at the new Kauffman Performing Arts Center downtown. The sound was incredible, as it is known for it's acoustics.

We liked the one area that looked like a boat. :)

Looking down on the symphony warming up

Mom and Dad

Chris and I

Awesome architecture- wish I had more pics!

Poinsettia Pillow DIY

2011-12-17T11:33:00.000-08:00

In my previous post, I showed a sneak peak of a gift I'm making for my K team mates. Well, it (they) are done! Ta-da!

Hand-sewn bells in the middle (I used 12)

For the petals, I used felt and just cut random sizes and shapes, and hot glued them on. No rhyme or reason, really. For the four middle petals, I cut 8 identical petals and glued them ontop of eachother to make them thicker.

For the pillow case, I used this awesome and easy tutorial- check it out:

Click here for pillowcase tutorial

Crafts and More Bad Behavior from Scout..

2011-12-16T20:44:00.000-08:00

So we cannot win with this animal.

If you are a faithful CoffeyHouse follower, you may be thinking, "Gee... I feel like I've seen this before?" Well, my friend- you would be right. You have seen this before. When our little son was 10 months old, he committed this crime for the first time. He is now a repeat offender. What will Santa Paws think...

Rewind to April of 2010...

Good thing we love him and he's so darn cute.

We've been busy, busy in Santa's workshop... here is our "kid" tree with all our old/new ornaments.

Sneak peak at a Christmas project for my two Kindergarten team mates... it's a knock off of this Pottery Barn pillow I found that I loved (my favorite part is the bells in the middle- too cute.

Hand made Christmas card hanger- new this year

and last but not least, a new treat recipe from Mom and I's big baking day last Saturday. We made things for over 6 hours! These are chocolate/mint covered Ritz crackers- put them in the freezer and yum!

Hope you all are still out there and are enjoying this holiday season!! 2 more days of work then off for the holidays!

Christmas Par-tay

2011-12-16T20:30:00.000-08:00

I am attempting at catching up on my blogging... my apologies to whoever actually reads this thing on a regular basis. :) The following pics are from our friends' white elephant exchange/tacky Christmas party last Friday night! Enjoy. :)

Thanks, Mom, for the sweaters. ;)

And let the white elephant exchange begin...

I spotted that beautiful tree and set out to get it... even though I had to steal to do so. Awful. I felt guilt for awhile after stealing it from a friend- something very wrong about that...

But it does look perfect on our kitchen table. :)

Chris scored some toiletries which we sadly have use for- we always stock our guest bathroom with toiletries and now we are set for life! He also got a "Simpson's" themed game of Spoons (which I love) but instead of spoons, there are donuts. haha What a hoot. We played spoons at the end of the night and it got quite violent.

Lindsey got what she always wanted- a beer.

Oh look! A miniature Twister game.

We gave a lovely recorder.

Playing the game Lindsey oh-so-talentedly came up with. This part was a pictionary-type question.

Very fun night- thank you, Millers!

MIA

2011-12-13T20:34:00.000-08:00

I know I have been MIA and let me explain:

Report cards
Out of control students (well, for a large part of the time) :)
Christmas

I'm piloting a new reading curriculum (McGraw-Hill- LEAD21) for our district for Kindergarten starting in January so have been a little overwhelmed figuring out a brand new curriculum before we head back to school... on top of assessing 20 kids one-on-one for report cards. Who would ever think that a K report card would be so complex?

Anyways- we had friends over for dinner tonight which was a blast- I made my White Chicken Chili recipe with bread and a pumpkin dessert (from my Great Aunt Rosalie). :) After our friends left, Chris and I were watching mindless youtube videos and searching for other entertaining things- as my mind is CRAVING things that require no thought... and came across this gem:

http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/40-things-that-will-make-you-feel-old

Enjoy. :)

More life and picture updates to come- promise.

Teaching the Tricky Teens

2011-12-04T10:08:00.000-08:00

If you teach Kindergarten (or even first), you know the routine of teaching the "teen" numbers. It can be a daunting task and has been for me, until I discovered this little gem by Harry Kindergarten on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5eaBjKI8xQ (click to view song/video)

With this video, I have done...

Movement: song/dance with motions
Number lines (moving a see through colored chip over the teens)
Holding up numbers as they are sung
10 frames

The kids absolutely love this little rap and request it often, which always cracks me up. Harry Kindergarten also does other songs- I've used the 2D shape rap, as well as the 3D shape rap, too.

Any other ways you teach the teens in a fun but repetitive way?

quarter of a century birthday for the spousal figure

2011-12-04T07:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, my friends- my husband has hit a milestone- a quarter of a century.

Being the good domesticated wife I am.. (haha) I got up and made him his fave-scrambled eggs (with all the goodies, of course) and bacon.

the 25 year old himself

we watched the KSU game at my parents (I went out and got some Christmas shopping done..) then came back to the house before the big birthday dinner out

This is the end of the dinner, of course, at Jack Stack BBQ (if you're ever in KC, this is the place to go). We ate down on the plaza and had a delicious dinner. Even saw our next door neighbors there. Small world. :)

Celebrating our 7TH birthday celebration together- insane!

This proves the severity of my broken camera- the screen is completely cracked, so when you take a picture you have to guess. The guy across from us (diff table) took our picture, and just so happened to be a professional photographer. If he couldn't make it work, no one could! Too bad that the man of the evening was cut out- sorry, Chris. :(

Back at the house for cake and gifts!

Playing with Granddad

One of his many gifts- definitely a favorite (and a surprise)

Dad lighting the 2 layer (chocolate and mint chocolate chip) ice cream cake- topped with Ande's minuts and crushed oreos on the bottom- YUM!

Happy 25th, Chris!!

If you grew up in the 90's, you'll appreciate this.

2011-11-30T18:57:00.000-08:00

This was someone's Facebook status this evening- hilarious... well, to those of us who grew up as a kid in the 90's at least . :)

"Beanie Babies were not just significant, they were the first example most kids growing up in the 90's had of envy, greed, and wrath. If someone messed up that little heart-shaped Ty tag, so help you God, that was the end of whatever contact you had with that monster of a human being. That tag-less Beanie Baby was now trash, and you had to deal with the consequence. It was at that moment, that de-valued Beanie Baby moment, that most of us accepted the truth… we’ll never have nice things."

On the note of Beanie Babies... Chris and I were just discussing- what made these so big? It's not like stuffed animals had never been invented before... poems have been around, tags are on everything- so why are these cheap little animals with beans in their behinds so popular? Or why were they popular is more like it?

We were laughing as we recalled the names of the first beanie babies we got- I got Seaweed the Otter from my Dad and Chris got Ringo the Racoon- why in the world would we remember that?

I wonder what things our kids will have that they remember like Beanie Babies down the road- nothing could ever top my Furby- "Me me co co."

:) Night!

Jesus was not a Native American- a Kindergarten story

2011-11-20T19:34:00.000-08:00

I need to do a better job of writing down my funny Kindergarten stories because it's a neverending fountain of fun. :)

Last week, I had a few minutes to kill with the little turkeys before specials (PE, Spanish, etc.). Sometimes I'll do "challenge questions" that they love- they are basically review questions of things we're learning that week. If a student gets an answer right, he/she gets a sticker for their chart.

The question was "What was the name of the nice Native American man who helped the Pilgrims with lots of things in the New World?"

One of my little guys raises his hand and I call on him- he replies with a straight face and frankness- "Jesus."

I had to hold in my smile/laughter as I commended him for a good try but no, Jesus was not a Native American.

The same day, a student presented his "spotlight of the week" poster. This little boy is a Christmas baby- a few of my kids couldn't comprehend someone having the same birthday as Jesus. "But that's JESUS'S BIRTHDAY?!!"

Too funny. Always awkward when the religious topics come up in a public/non-religious school setting. :)

FUNDED!!! :)

2011-11-19T09:32:00.000-08:00

Very exciting news to share- my first ever Donors Choose project was funded yesterday!!! I seriously could not believe it.

Check out the link to my project-

http://www.donorschoose.org/mrscoffeyskindergarten

What a cool site- if you are a teacher and haven't checked this out, do it! I'm proof that it works! :)

Very thankful for all the generous people out there.

Way to go Dad! :)

2011-11-16T20:36:00.000-08:00

Tonight was my Dad's Silver Beaver Award ceremony at the Marriot Downtown- in a nutshell, he is a huge asset to the Boy Scout world and was recognized for his time and dedication tonight in a big and well-deserved way.

According to meritbadge.org (yes, I actually went to this site)... :) The Silver Beaver award is a distinguished service award ...

"The Boy Scouts of America recognizes the need to acknowledge the invaluable services that men and women render to youth. Of the millions of registered adult volunteers in Scouting, only a select few are presented distinguished service awards at these level: silver beaver, amongst others."

Dinner hall

Mom and Dad- Chris was Dad's escort

Mom and Dad infront of Dad's award on display

Granddad and Grandmother came in for the event, too- what a treat!

We are so proud of you, Dad!!! Congratulations!

I'm an AUTHOR! Well, kind of. :) Teacher Fashion Article on Estylechat

2011-11-14T15:59:00.000-08:00

My friend in Colorado, Emily, writes for a blog called estylechat- I was more than flattered when she asked me to write an article about teacher's clothing/fashion tips!! It was published today and wanted to share!! Here's the link to the site- Emily posts some pretty great articles so be sure to read more than just what I wrote!! :) Click here to go straight to the site

Or read below!:

"When we wanted to write a post about the best clothing for teachers, we knew there was no better person to ask than Megan, a kindergarten teacher in Kansas City. Megan is also a blogger and her cute blog, called Coffey House, covers recipes, decorating and teaching. Megan told us that working a normal day, which can be anywhere between 9 and 12 hours, style can easily be exchanged for comfort. Here are Megan's five style tips for teachers. We paired each tip with a few outfits, which you can check out by clicking on the pictures!

1. Opt for simple pieces that can be worn a variety of ways. Think dresses that can be worn in a variety of seasons... just add hose! Sleeveless shirts that can be worn in the fall with capris and then under cardigans and jackets in the fall/winter.

eStyle Chat picks: Coral short-sleeved cardigan for $60, Vanessa Bruno silk dress on sale for $170, add $10 grey tights to the dress for wearing in the winter! The cardigan could be worn with jeans, the dress could be worn to a summer wedding and the tights work with any skirt or dress during the fall and winter.

Or pants that can be worn in multiple seasons such as these purple tapered pants from Topshop.

2. Be a bargain shopper. Who says that a less-than-appealing salary should dictate your wardrobe? Outlets - such as GAP, Banana Republic, and my personal favorite, Ann Taylor Loft - can have incredible deals. Shop off-season and gear up for the next semester! Target is also a great way to go and you should even check out Savers, which offers brand name clothing at a huge discount.

eStyle Chat picks: Target top for $30 and Merona Target woven skirt for $22 and a Gap button down for $35

3. Less is more when it comes to jewelry. The more bling you pile on, the more distracted those little eyes will be. You want your students to focus on the academics, not the accessories. Bracelets that rattle and earrings that swing can make focusing mission impossible for a five-year old.

eStyle Chat picks: high-quality, classic oval hoops or a simple chain necklace that will match everything without hurting your ears or distracting little eyes!

4. Invest in good shoes! Feet for teachers are like hands for professional basketball players: they are so valuable they should be insured! It's easy to stroll over to Payless or Target and buy some cheap but cute flats but your pods will pay the price. Catch sales of places like Naturalizer (my favorite), The Walking Company and other high quality shoes built for heavy use.

eStyle Chat picks: Naturalizer flats, both $70, (copper and suede) or pink leather flats from Clarks for $60

5. Wear things you can move in! Tight clothing is not the best choice when you are on the floor sitting "criss-cross applesauce" or bending down to help a student and his or her desk. Always do the teacher test with your outfits: reach up to ensure no midriff is shown (I feel so old-fashioned now!) and then reach down to test the outfit in the other direction. Skirts and capris should touch your knee and keep the slits in skirts to a minimum.

eStyle Chat picks: Chiffon knee-length dress for $65 and Mossimo Target dress for $25

White Chicken Chili- DELISH.

2011-11-12T15:30:00.000-08:00

What we had for dinner with the inlaws (they're visiting) :)

White Chicken Chili (found on Pinterest, of course)

click for recipe

Quick, easy crock pot dish that can be made very low/nonfat! Hope you enjoy as much as we did!

Help! Making Literacy Stations more independent?

2011-11-09T18:56:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow K-1 teachers (or any teachers for that matter)!

I have started doing small reading groups this week (meeting with 5 groups of 3-4 kids, meeting with 3 groups a day). While doing small group instruction, the rest of my little chickies are engaged *or supposed to be* engaged in literacy work stations.

The issue I've seen this week is the lack of independence the kids seem to still have at stations even though we've been practicing them (with my help) since the beginning of October. I wear a "magic apron" when meeting with my reading groups that signals for no one to talk to me when I have it on. That works like a charm, but what if a kid has a legit question or issue? Like today- the CD player at the listening station wasn't working. I don't want my kids to sit and do nothing because they can't get the CD player to work.

I don't know, I've just seen some issues. Today the kids left the stations a mess and the wrap up after the third rotation ( last rotation) takes WAY longer than I want it to. We end up coming back together in a circle in the end to share our learnings and what the kids have made. This is a time when I also share what I thought went well and what we can improve on tomorrow.

Any tips on making literacy workstations/centers more independent? I honestly think space is one of my biggest issues- too many kids crammed into small spaces. But whattya gonna do. :) Will continue to do my best to improve these stations.

Thank you so much for your advice!

Megan

Back to my ROOTS... Texas Wedding Weekend

2011-11-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, Chris's best friend from high school, "Tex" or Ryan, :) got married. Chris was a groomsmen and we had a great time in Austin.

outside before the ceremony:

me, Stephen, Cara (Piles- expecting in March!), Jessi, and her bf Zach

Jessi, Cara, and I (me at an awkward angle..)

best buds :)

bromance

Chris and I- can't believe our wedding was almost 2 1/2 years ago!!

Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Collett!

Sunday- exploring downtown Austin- Tex (Ryan) had reccommended one of these lovelies to eat at- I think we'll pass. :)

our hotel- goodbye, Texas!

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2011-11-07T18:42:00.000-08:00

We had a great birthday celebration for Dad on November 1st! The weather couldn't have been more beautiful and the company was even better. :)

yummy apple crisp

Scout was obsessed with Dad's gifts...

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Happy Halloween from the Coffeys!

2011-10-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

wreath I made last year (added in the little sign)

Current stats: sitting on the couch watching the original 1978 Halloween with some borderline bad acting. We have had 8 kids in the past hour... 2 of which being over the age of 15. Woo hoo! hehe :) More candy for us I guess- not good.

The first few visitors, Scout literally went ballistic- making all sorts of awful noises and flailing uncontrollably as Chris attempted to hold him back from the door. Our quick solution was to strap on the trusty and infamous turtle costume we got when hew as a puppy. You put that thing on him and you would have thought he had done the WORST thing in the world- he literally lays around and is depressed. Don't mean to ruin your Halloween, Scout- but you, my friend, are out of control. Enjoy the pics. :)

"Look, Mom! It looks like me!"

Scout's 3rd Halloween

in depression..

"I hate this holiday."

Cheesy Enchilada Casserole

2011-10-31T15:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Halloween Dinner Tonight: Cheesy Enchilada Casserole from the Six Sisters Stuff Blog

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)

1 large onion, chopped or season with Onion powder or minced onion

2 1/2 cups salsa

1 can (15 ounces) black beans or red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1/4 cup reduced-fat Italian salad dressing

2 tablespoons reduced-sodium taco seasoning

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

6 flour tortillas (8 inches)

1 small can of drained corn, or about 1 1/4 cups of frozen corn (optional)

3/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream *Note: I used 1/2 cup

2 cups (4 ounces) shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend

1 cup shredded lettuce

1 medium tomato, chopped

1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro

Directions

In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.

Stir in the salsa, beans, dressing, sour cream, taco seasoning and cumin.

Spoon a generous layer of meat mixture on bottom of 2 quart baking dish. Sprinkle with grated cheese.

Place a flour or corn tortilla on top of meat mixture. Layer with half of the meat mixture, and cheese. Repeat as many layers as you like.

The last & final layer should be a healthy dose of grated cheese.

Cover with foil that has been sprayed with pam or other and bake at 400° for 25 minutes, or until hot & bubbly.

Let stand for 5 minutes before topping with lettuce, tomato and cilantro. Yield: 8 servings.

Dinner Review from last night (see previous blogpost)- I give it an F. Yuck. I can eat almost anything but oh my was that hard to get down. After a few bites I eventually gave up. Chris somehow managed to eat it all but geeze- I felt bad for him. He promised he liked it. Hope that was true. hehe Anyways- would not recommend. Fail.

Dinner Tonight: Orange Chicken in the crock pot (minus the impossible-to-find ingredients)

2011-10-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

Click here for Recipe

Crock Pot Orange Chicken

Currently throwing these bad boys into the crock pot. :) MMmmmm mmm... will let you know how it is tonight. Will serve on brown rice.

Fun Fall Day w/the Fam :)

2011-10-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

I woke up today with a full blown cold- lovely. Probably a let down from the past couple weeks of report cards and conferences. No cold was going to stop me today. :)

We started the afternoon with my parents at the Louisberg Cider Mill- so fun. Fresh apple cider, cinnamon apple doughnuts, and good ol' hoe-down music. Nothing gets stuck in your head like "Blue Waterrrrr....blue waterrrrr....." The weather was perfect and the people-watching was even better.

We then came back to watch KSU get beat by OU (bummer). I took a nap and attempted to get some general rest to kick this cold. We then had yummy chicken mediterrainean (spelled wrong, I know) pizza and did our annual pumpkin carving. Let me say that the competition this year... was intense.

The deal shopper that I am found our pumpkins for $2.50 each at Aldi's (goodness how I love that place). Mine was so big I could hardly get it out of the crate.

Mine before

I've always done either a Wildcat or a face I make up- but not this year. I decided to put Scout's face on my pumpkin and let me tell you- that was no easy task. Gutting a pumpkin that weighed close to 10-15 pounds took forever and then the carving was tedious and quite the challenge.

Mine after! :) (woof on the side)

Chris and Dad had different ideas of what quality pumpkin carving looked like- Dad went for the traditional "Jack" with the knife and Chris did a skull with the power tools- whatever floats your boat I say.

Chris's

"Jack" (who comes back every year since at least 1987) :)

The trio- whattya think?

A very fun day- ended with scary movies and VapoRub. Thank goodness for that stuff.

I have join Pinterest...!!!

2011-10-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

For months I've been hearing people talk about this glorious site called Pinterest. It could possibly be the new addiction of my life. If you'd like, visit my page and follow me! I'd love to follow others, as well! :)

http://pinterest.com/thecoffeyhouse/

ABC Nursury in the works! (preview of letters M and B) :)

2011-10-28T17:53:00.000-07:00

One of my best buds from school, Tracy, is expecting in March and they are not finding out the gender. She's doing a darling ABC theme and is handcrafting the ABCs to put on the wall- I was priveleged to get to help! :) I worked on the M and Tracy did the B. What do you think? Can't wait to see the final product.

Here's her darling bedding. Too cute.

Lemon Pepper Shrimp Scampi on Orzo

2011-10-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

Made this for the second time tonight- yum.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked orzo
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
7 teaspoons unsalted butter, divided
1 1/2 pounds peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp
2 teaspoons bottled minced garlic
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

1. Cook orzo according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain. Place orzo in a medium bowl. Stir in parsley and 1/4 teaspoon salt; cover and keep warm.

2. While orzo cooks, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle shrimp with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add half of shrimp to pan; sauté 2 minutes or until almost done. Transfer shrimp to a plate. Melt 1 teaspoon butter in pan. Add remaining shrimp to pan; sauté 2 minutes or until almost done. Transfer to plate.

3. Melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter in pan. Add garlic to pan; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Stir in shrimp, juice, and pepper; cook 1 minute or until shrimp are done.

David Bonom, Cooking Light

MARCH 2009

Exhausted.

2011-10-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

Definitely one of those downer teacher days. I am wiped.

I've found that one of the most frustrating things in teaching isn't the grading, lesson planning, organization, conferences, report cards, or the kids- it's the parents. Or some, I should say. I am mentally exhausted and left with a feeling of hopelessness when I have a student who I am going 150% for at school but know that nothing will be returned at home. I'm sure many of you know the feeling. I will continue to do all I can for these types of students within my four walls but it's disheartening knowing that my efforts stop (or it feels that way) when the student heads home.

My report cards are done and ready to be stuffed- they go home Friday. Conferences are next week- I may be strange but I absolutely enjoy parent-teacher conferences. Part of it has to do with the three day week for the kids.... :) but the majority of it has to do with the interaction with the families. It is so insightful sitting down with the moms, dads, whoever- gives me a whole new perspective on the child- for better and for worse.

On another note, who is excited for Halloween to be on a Monday??!!! hehe Wow... that will be interesting. We will also be celebrating 50's day that week, as well (which is so fun, I love it- a sock hop and root beer floats? Yes.)

In my 5% of my other life (other than my teaching life, that is), things are great. I wish I had more time to craft and to cook- currently cooking a pizza in the oven since Chris is gone- not good...- but I'm averaging 2-3 good home-cooked meals a week- not bad. Currently making this yummy recipe: pepperoni rigatoni from a friend from college's blog (she's a teacher with twins- guess I could be busier!!) :)

Hope all's well in your world. As for me, pizza and the couch it is.

Fall/Halloween Decor: Come on in!

2011-10-08T16:54:00.000-07:00

Scout in the Fall

2011-10-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

This little deviant got out this afternoon for some playtime in the leaves. Yes, he is still banished to the basement and has little to no priveledges in the house, unfortunately... I have had a few little chats with our vet (who is wonderful)- she also serves as our behavioral consultant and parenting advice-giver when it comes to our "child." She advised a few months of time-out from having free roam all day and assured me that lots of times dogs feel more comfortable in confined spaces because that's what they would be doing in the wild in their dens. Not sure if Scout will see it that way.. but oh well. :) Enjoy a few pics I just took!

he's whining in this picture- can you tell?

"Mom, I promise I'll change my ways...???"

Free Dog.

2011-09-30T17:12:00.000-07:00

Let me take you on a walk through our house....

The time is 5:45- I get home from work decently early for a Friday.... and this is what I see:

Exhibit A: bathroom consumptions

Exhibit B: opened drawer that the brand new box of Viactiv Calcium chews was taken out of..

Exhibit C: new booked chewed

Exhibit C: (zoom out) all my favorite childhood stuffed animals and one of Chris's- from left to right: Libby, Snuffles, Sparky, and Anonymous (Chris never named him apparently...) and the owl I bought from Kirkland's is in the back- the purple is the top of the Viactiv box that contained 30,000 mg of calcium and 60 chocolate chews.

Exhibit B: The family room- contents include all my notes from my teacher conference yesterday, a massager, and parts of the Viactiv box

Exhibit D continued: Another one of Chris's stuffed animals (hushpuppy that Scout gave a nose-ectomy) and more papers from the secretary in the kitchen...

Needless to say, our dog is up for grabs for free. No fees- just take him away.

And yes, I'm kidding but very close to killing him. We ended up having to call ASPA Posion Control which cost a pretty penny over the phone- they told us that he might be sick (knowing Scout he'll be fine) but just to thicken up his diet (which I believe he did that already today)... and he'll live.

Oh my. Hope your Friday is off to a better start.

Quick & Easy Greek Salad Recipe

2011-09-25T16:13:00.000-07:00

Greek Salad Recipe

quick and easy!

To make dressing...

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 c. olive oil

1/2 tsp. dry oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp. vinegar

3/4 tsp. dry basil

1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

Pour over mixed greens salad or romaine lettuce- add 1/2 cup feta, cucumbers, tomatoes, and anything else your heart desires. :) Enjoy!

Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe (to die for)

2011-09-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

This is one of my new all-time favorite recipes (can't take any credit- this one comes from a friend). I think I posted about it before, but it's worth reposting. :)

Lemon Chicken Orzo

You need....

one bag Orzo pasta (in the pasta isle...usually in a smaller bag)

1/2 cup Olive oil

1 rotisserie chicken or grilled

1 pkg feta cheese

2-3 cups torn spinach

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1-2 lemons

1 pkg cherry tomatoes quartered

fresh thyme (or dried...a tsp or so)

salt and pepper added to taste.

To make...

cook Orzo per package. drain and set aside to cool

zest your lemon into the pasta

add diced chicken

add tomatoes

in a separate small bowl, combine juice of lemons and olive oil. add some salt and pepper and mix.

add the "dressing" to the pasta and stir

add spinach and thyme

stir in feta last before serving

Cooking Light's Top 12 Healthy Habits

2011-09-25T07:29:00.000-07:00

While looking for yummy new recipes to make for this week's menu, I came across this: there's one goal a month and they sound pretty do-able!

Go directly to link

Forget the grandiose, impossible New Year’s resolutions: The path to a healthier lifestyle begins one little habit at a time. Welcome to our 12 Healthy Habits program: Each month this year we’ll focus on one healthy practice that you’re probably already doing but want to do a bit more (usually food-related, but we’ve thrown in a couple that focus on exercise). We’ll profile people and explore their challenges and goals, then recommend food or fitness strategies, and provide recipes and nutrition tips. Want to join us? Sign up for our 12 Healthy Habits newsletter and join the conversation on our message boards and on Facebook. You can be part of the conversation, online and in the magazine.

The plan challenges you to add a new habit each month, and by year-end, the accumulated effect will be a much healthier you. Here's what to expect, month by month:

January: Eat More Fruits and Vegetables—Add 3 more servings of fruits and vegetables to your diet each day. Download January's Healthy Habits Tracker PDF.

Feb: Get Moving—Increase the amount of aerobic exercise you do. Download February's Healthy Habits Tracker PDF.

March: Get Cooking—Cook at least 3 meals more per week than you are now, even if that means cooking breakfast or lunch (for freezing, maybe). Download March's Healthy Habits Tracker PDF.

April: Go For More Grains—Add 3 servings of whole grains per day. Download April's Healthy Habits Tracker PDF.

May: Eat Breakfast Daily—Eat a healthy breakfast every day. Download May's Healthy Habits Tracker PDF.

June: Get Stronger—Add strength training to your fitness regimen: at least 2 sessions per week.

July: Focus on Healthy Fats—Swap unhealthy fats for healthy fats in your diet.

August: Go Vegetarian at Least 1 Day a Week—Expand the number of all-vegetable dishes that you eat by making 1 dinner or main-meal-of-the-day vegetarian.

September: Eat More Fish—Cook fish or seafood for dinner 2 times a week.

October: Ease Up on Salt—Cut back on salt/sodium and increase your sodium awareness.

November: Be Portion Aware—Cut your portion size of less-healthy or higher-calorie foods at least once per meal.

December: Eat Mindfully—Be mindful of the Earth, be thankful, be giving, be happy this holiday season

Quick Life Update

2011-09-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

I just bought this beauty today from Kirkland's. How cute, seriously? It was only $10 and I knew I couldn't even make it for that cheap.

I've been trying to find a good fall crafting project but have had no luck thus far. Ideas?

My in-laws are in town right now and we're going out tonight with my parents for the Plaza Art Fair (80th year!) and dinner. Should be fun and the weather here couldn't be more perfect.

Plaza Art Fair

I'm finally starting to try to get a cold- not fun. Hoping it will hold off- no time to be sick!

School is going well- my little friends are still doing great overall. Definitely tired every night- goal this week is to get back to the gym at least 3 times a week. Monday we'll be celebrating Johnny Appleseed's birthday and starting some apple math activities (we've been doing apples all month). Friday I'm going to attempt to make crock pot apple sauce with the apples the kids bring in- trying to find a good recipe that would make enough for 22 kids. Let me know if you have one? Or any tips for me in general?

Hope you are doing well! Scout continues to eat bizarre things- not sure what's wrong with this dog. The latest is paper towels and trash.

Happy Saturday!

Things I Love.

2011-09-18T19:22:00.000-07:00

Chris and I are currently watching Something Borrowed... which inspired me to write this post about things that I am loving these days. :)

In no particular order...

I'm going to kill my dog.

2011-09-14T20:17:00.000-07:00

As I type this post, our disobedient and out of control animal is whining in "time out." Why you may ask? How about I just show you.

my favorite lunch box that my mother-in-law gave me (new rubbermaids we just bought in the background)

The contents of my teacher bag...

Chris and I were out at dinner with my dad and came home....I was going to pack my lunch for tomorrow and couldn't find my lunch bag- I swore I had left it in my teacher bag ( and I was right... ). I figured maybe it was in the car... until Scout ran into the family room with the red top of a rubbermaid. That's when it hit me- SCOUT was the one who knew where my lunch box was...

I seriously do not know what has gotten into this dog. Yesterday, he ate a card I had written in an envelope. Today, got home from work and he had eaten the contents of a trashcan and an entire container of turtle food.

I do not get it. This dog is going on 2 1/2... more like 2 1/2 months.

Good thing he's so darn cute- but for now he'll remain in time out.

Scout at 11 months- one of his first major offenses (and pretty must the last until today...) And yes, this is the inside of his bed. We call this the "green cloud" picture.

"My name is Scout, and I've gone crazy."

K Story of the Day...

2011-09-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

I read the kids the story City Dog, Country Frog which anyone who reads this knows that I am obsessed with. :) We brainstormed ideas for things they do specifically during the different seasons.

When we got to winter, one little girl raised her hand and said "pohwuk." I was like, "what?" She said "pohwuk." Meanwhile, my kids are trying to help translate for me- not helping. She said "eat pohwuk." I said "eat what?" She says, "Pohwuk- like chicken."

Anyways, she was saying "eat pork" during the winter. Does it get anymore random? hehe

Probably one of those had to be there stories but these kids never cease to make me laugh.

Remembering 9-11

2011-09-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight at church I heard the song "Where were you when the world stopped turning" by Alan Jackson.

For me, the answer was 2nd or 3rd hour- can't remember which- computer class, freshmen year of high school. Knowing what I know how of what happened on that tragic day, I truly was clueless of the magnitude.

Chris and I went to our 5:00 comtemporary service tonight (we usually go for the AM traditional). I'm usually not a huge fan, but I was proven wrong- partially in part by the gorgeous music played.

If you haven't heard this song, "You Make Beautiful Things" it's a must-hear: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uumI-PdeZzY&feature=related

Limeaides for Learning!

2011-09-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

If you can, please take a moment and vote for my Donors Choose project via Sonic's Limaides for Learning!! You can vote once a day but buying drinks from Sonic (of course) :) can get you more votes daily.

Click below to vote for my project:

http://www.limeadesforlearning.com/projects/view/588232/vote

Click below for more information on Sonic's Limeaides for Learning (teacher friends- sign up!)

http://www.limeadesforlearning.com/pages/howItWorks

Current favorite kids' book: City Dog, Country Frog

2011-09-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

Just splurged and used one of my Barnes and Noble teacher gift cards to buy this amazing book (with even more amazing illustrations- watercolor and pencil):

I absolutely love this book and would recommend it to any elementary classroom. Here's the summary:

"In spring, when City Dog runs free in the country for the first time, he spots Country Frog sitting on a rock, waiting for a friend. “You’ll do,” Frog says, and together they play Country Frog games. In summer, they meet again and play City Dog games. Through the seasons, whenever City Dog visits the country he runs straight for Country Frog’s rock. In winter, things change for City Dog and Country Frog. Come spring, friendship blooms again, a little different this time.

Mo Willems’ spare, poignant text and Jon J Muth’s expressive watercolors team up to present a reflection on the natural course of friendship--and life--that will resonate with readers of all ages."

Night at the Dog Park

2011-08-31T19:24:00.000-07:00

In the 97 degree heat... we made the trek down to the dog beach....

Right after I took this picture, a lady stopped us and asked all about Scout- because she is 99% sure that her son owns Scout's brother, Cash. lol He's 2 and from a pretty sketchy shelter, as well. So we sent her a pic via e mail of Scout and she's going to get back with us. It's very doubtful that Cash is actually Scout's brother... apparently they are identical and the same age, etc. If they are, we will have a reunion at the park! Stay tuned!! How wild though, huh? And random.

Shake, shake, shake

Tired at home. :)

Saturday Projects

2011-08-27T15:41:00.001-07:00

Just a couple things to brighten up the Coffey classroom. :)

Unbelievably Sad Story.. and another reason I love labs.

2011-08-25T19:38:00.000-07:00

Black lab mourns the death of his Navy Seal owner.

Read the full story here: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/44271018

Scout's Photo Shoot

2011-08-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, we received Scout's picture from the Humane Society Benefit we take him to in KC every summer (we missed his one year picture)- but below are his 2 month picture and 2 year picture. :)

At the dog park we take Scout to often (just got back from it a bit ago!), there's a benefit where a KC photographer takes 5 x7s of your dog if you bring a bag of food to donate. Pretty cool, huh?

Start of School Update

2011-08-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

Well, friends- I am beyond pleased to report that the start of my school year has been nothing short than wonderful. It's amazing to love every minute of my job again. (Background for those who do not know, I had a beyond rough year last year with my group- about 18 out of 23 pretty major behavioral issues). This year, I have 21 students, one of those being a severly autistic little guy (who is a doll) who only is in the room for 15 minutes or so. Having 20 kids for the majority of the day is a dream.

I wish I could post pics of my kids on here but just imagine 20 of the most adorable faces you've ever seen. They are all so sweet. I have a few stinkers, of course, to make me earn my money hehe but even they are pretty great.

Story of the Week: After lunch on the first day, the kids had some down time where they watched a Berenstein Bears video on the floor. When it was over, I turned on the lights, they started to get up, and one of my little boys exclaims and points: "Look! There's poop on the floor!"

And yes... it was real poop. One of my little gems decided to make a lovely deposit on the floor and I'm pretty sure I know who it was. The funniest thing of all was after I cleaned it up, the kids went back to the normal routine and it didn't seem to phase them at all. Kids are so funny- and gross, at times. ;)

We had a thre day week last week, all full days. I'm hoping this week goes equally as great as the last! Hope you've had a great start to your year. :)

AMAZING Greek Salad Dressing

2011-08-18T04:39:00.000-07:00

Hello!! I survived the first day of Kindergarten- wooo hooo!! Stories to come when I have more time to update (hopefully tonight or this weekend). I wanted to share a quick Greek Salad dressing recipe I found and used last night on a mixed greens salad that was wonderful. I'm kind of a dressing snob in that I don't care for too many dressings that aren't from a restaurant. hehe So this one made the cut!

GREEK SALAD DRESSING

Content Copyright © 2011 Cooks.com - All rights reserved.

1/3 c. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. dry oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp. vinegar

3/4 tsp. dry basil

1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1/2 c. crumbled Feta cheese

Romaine lettuce is the best (like I said, I used a mixed greens in a bag)

Mix ingredients. Pour dressing over greens tomatoes, etc. Stir. Add cheese and stir again.

Lining Up Song Medley!

2011-08-14T18:20:00.000-07:00

I had written a post awhile ago asking for your input on what songs you use when lining up- I can't explain the tune of this one that I used all last year but here are the words:

Are your shoulders standing in a row?

If they are, you're ready to go.

Straight and tall, stand just so-

Are your shoulders standing in a row?

And that was all I had! This year, I want to keep my little Kinders on their toes. I'm going to either have the line leader pick a new song every time out of a bucket or something or pick a student who lined up nicely to pick one. I've been on a hunt for other cute and fun songs and here's what I came up with!

If you missed my post before and want to contribute, please do!!

To the tune of Hokey Pokey:

I keep my eyes straight ahead

I keep my hands at my side

I keep myself very quiet as I walk right down the hall.
No one will hear us,

We will be so quiet.

That's how we walk in line

SHHHHHHHHH

No Tune:

Hands down,

Turn around,

Face the door,

And say no more.

Tune: Farmer in the Del

My hands are resting by my sides,

I'm standing straight and tall.

My eyes are front; my lips are zipped,

I'm ready for the hall.

Tune: Gilligan's Island

My hands are tight behind my back

I am standing very tall

I am quietly looking straight ahead

I am ready for the hall!

Tune: Doo Wah Ditty

Here we go just a walking down the hall

Singing doo wah ditty ditty dum ditty do

We're so quiet when we're walking down the hall

Singing doo wah ditty ditty dum ditty do

We LOOK GOOD (look good)

LOOK FINE (look fine)

See us walking in a line

Singing doo wah ditty ditty dum ditty do,

doo wah ditty ditty dum ditty do!

Line Up Chant

1, 2 Listen and do

3, 4 Face the door

5, 6 Fingers on lips

7, 8 Line up straight

9, 10 Let's begin.

Zip It

Lock It

Put it in your Pocket

I had a little wiggle

deep inside of me

I tried to make it stop

but it wouldn't let me be!

So I took out that wiggle

and I threw it like a ball (kids pretend to throw)

and now Mrs. Coffey knows

I'm ready for the hall!

hand on your hip and finger on your lip

feet on the ground and don't make a sound

(Tune: Do Your Ears Hang Low)

Are your eyes facing forward?

Are your hands behind your back?

Are you standing in a line?

Are you leaving any gaps?

Are you ready for the hall?

Does your behavior show it all?

Let's do the right thing.

How to Host a Murder Mystery Dinner Party

2011-08-14T08:05:00.000-07:00

Last night we attended a Murder Mystery Dinner party that was a total hoot- costumes and all. There were 4 couples, all dressed "in character" and ready for the "Class of '54 Reunion" when a fellow classmate is mysteriously killed.

Now before you think I'm totally nuts, read about these types of parties here on Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/How_to_Host_a_Murder

The game consists of 4 rounds, each round also being one part of the meal (appetizer, salad, main course, dessert). While you eat, you are discussing information that you have (in a booklet) that you're told to either conceal or share with the group- it's tough trying to keep secrets you know because one of the rules of the game is you can't lie, but you can "evade" questions. haha There was a LOT of evading going on!

Needless to say, I was NOT the murderer and we had a great time- the couple who hosted did a fabulous job, complete with amazing food, decor, and even prizes for best actor, best costume, worst actor, and whoever guessed the murder. Chris and I tied for best costume- (HAHA....) what do you think?!

Thanks to the Millers for a super fun and KILLER night. ;)

Chris was the highschool "bad boy" and I was a peppy cheerleader- both hilarious.

What do you bring for Lunch?

2011-08-14T07:49:00.000-07:00

The first day of school is 72 hours away, and I'm preparing our menu for the week- only this week, it includes items to take for LUNCH, as well!

I get tired of eating the same things for lunch each day- any ideas on quick, easy, and healthy things to take? Oh yeah, and that can be eaten in 10 minutes? haha ;)

Finally! My Classroom TOUR!

2011-08-11T20:32:00.000-07:00

So I'm a little bummed about the quality of pics I got with my lovely camera but that's okay :) It is definitely not done (please ignore random things on the tables) and nothing is labeled with kids names yet... but getting there!!

Welcome to Mrs. Coffey's room!! :)

entrance- not done yet :) still need to label owls and put them around the tree

reading tent

cubbies, toy storage, good manners bulletin board, birthdays, how we go home poster by the board, the tupperware containers are full of busy toys for quiet time after lunch (we alternate these with educational movies)

snack cabinet, turn in baskets, job board (adorable little owls go in the little huts!), tooth fairy tracker and shoe tying board

also new: noise management system, we'll see how this goes! it's to the left of the smartboard.

front of the room- new classroom mangagement system i'm trying- see: stoplight (going to have clothespins on it with kids names- wanted to do numbers but I don't think they'll be able to remember their class numbers so will have to resort to names- any other alternatives?)

calendar area, computer center, writing center, math focus wall

small group reading area, focus wall, reading tent, themed books on display

word wall!! (didn't use to have a wall in my classroom- we had an open classroom setting) so now I finally get to have space for a word wall!

classroom library

Meet the Teacher Night Idea Share and scavenger hunt FREEbies!

2011-08-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

What do you do for your meet the teacher night? I need a way to make this a little less... hmmm... chaotic? this year. :) I love the idea of a classroom scavenger hunt/ checklist of things for parents/kids to do when they come in, after they meet me, of course. :)

Check out these adorable freebies: http://littlekinderwarriors.blogspot.com/2011/08/freebies-galore-for-your-meet-and-greet.html

Any tips or cute ideas that you do?

Scout's Summer

2011-08-07T08:06:00.001-07:00

Adorable Clipboard Giveaway!

2011-08-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I wish I could say I was giving this away. :) I am totally inspired to learn how to make these things, however.

Head over to How Bout Them Apples? to read all about it and enter to win for yourself!

Cheap books online-Thriftbooks.com Free Shipping!!

2011-08-06T19:38:00.000-07:00

Quick funny story- or maybe only funny to me- :) My colleague and I were working in our rooms the other day and she came over to ask me if I owned Brown Bear, Brown Bear by Eric Carle. I looked and I didn't have it, which was weird- but what was weirder to me was that a K teacher who has been teaching since the year I was literally born didn't own it! haha I think she usually gets it from the library at school.

Anyways, I am ordering 2 used copies online and found this amazing website- http://www.thriftbooks.com/

Here's why I love it- it's cheap and has FREE SHIPPING in the US!!! :) :)

Happy Book Thrifting!

Teachers+Students+Facebook= ???

2011-08-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

Click here for the original news story

I just saw on our 10 o clock news that Missouri has passed a law that bans teachers and students from being friends.

That's the main part of the law- here are the other two parts:

"It also bans registered sex offenders from serving on local school boards and strengthens criminal background checks on school bus drivers. "

----I think this is great.

"But one provision of the bill -- section 160.069 -- also prohibits teachers in elementary, middle or high schools from establishing, maintaining or using a "work-related website unless it is available to school administrators and the child's legal custodian, physical custodian, or legal guardian," effective January 1."

----not sure what this even means? I am possibly going to launch a website for my classroom and parents- I'm assuming that by sharing this site with my principal it's okay to have?

What are your thoughts on this topic?

Whole Wheat Banana Bread

2011-07-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

Back from the gym (hopefully will be able to walk tomorrow..), popped this in the oven because I've been craving it, and getting ready for my day! I'm seeing the movie Crazy Stupid Love (comes out today) and getting lunch with a friend before I host my mom's birthday dinner tonight~! I made that yummy lemon chicken orzo that I raved about a few posts ago. Angel food cake and strawberries for dessert- yum!

Whole Wheat Banana Bread *with or without nuts*

Original Recipe Yield 1 - 9 x 5 inch loaf

Ingredients

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 eggs

1 cup mashed bananas

1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 cup hot water

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (I left this out)

Directions

1.Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

2.In a large bowl, beat oil and honey together. Add eggs, and mix well. Stir in bananas and vanilla. Stir in flour and salt. Add baking soda to hot water, stir to mix, and then add to batter. Blend in chopped nuts. Spread batter into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.

3.Bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Cool on wire rack for 1/2 hour before slicing.

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 186
Total Fat: 7.3g

Cholesterol: 35mg

Kindergarten Classroom Management- What works?

2011-07-28T23:04:00.000-07:00

So it is about 1:00 a.m. here in good ol' blazing hot Kansas and I'm typing away because my mind is racing. I just got home from a wonderful night with some teacher friends where one of the main topics is teaching. :) It's a sick addiction that none of us can seem to kick! It's almost impossible not to talk about it. Here is my dilemma and I would really appreciate any opinions you may have:

I want to start my year differently this year- with more black/white consequences/rules etc. I use the "I Care" rules in my classroom (goes along with our counselor curriculum).

I was brainstorming ideas with my friends about what is Kindergarten appropriate- the easiest way to manage it- parent communication- etc. I'm thinking something along the lines of the card system (red yellow green) but something more K friendly- possibly with owls? :)

Also thinking that first semester I would fill in a sheet that goes home each night (for example, color in a happy, middle or sad face...or color in the color they finished on and write a note if needed)- and then second semester the kids will fill it in and I'll check it.

Now I just need a plan!

What's your opinion or experience with Kindergarten management? What do you think the best way is to ease them into school in a loving and chances-giving way while still holding them to predictable standards? What's worked for you?

Linguine and Spinach with Gorgonzola Sauce from Cooking Light

2011-07-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Another recipe to share!

linguine-spinach-with-gorgonzola-sauce

Ingredients

1 (9-ounce) package fresh linguine

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 (12-ounce) can evaporated low-fat milk

3/4 cup (3 ounces) crumbled Gorgonzola cheese

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 (6-ounce) bag fresh baby spinach (about 6 cups) Preparation

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.

While pasta cooks, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly with a whisk. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly with a whisk. Increase heat to medium-high; bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat; simmer 3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly, stirring frequently. Remove from heat, and stir in cheese, salt, and pepper. Combine the sauce, pasta, and spinach, tossing gently to coat.

Spanish Style Shrimp Pasta Recipe

2011-07-27T15:03:00.000-07:00

On the table tonight at the Coffey house...

Spanish Style Shrimp with Garlic (and pasta)

click above for recipe

I've made this twice now and it is deeeelicious. Easy, too. :)

Teacher Talk: The past 2 days have been exhausting and borderline depressing as I've spent a total of 6 1/2 hours in my room between yesterday and today. Once I get in there, it's like I can't leave. It's finally starting to come together and I will be posting pics as soon as it is presentable. :) We go back August 12th so my goal is to not FEEL like I've been living there all summer (which at times.. I have..). Scheduled a sewing machine lesson for next week and am going to do my massage that Chris gave me for my master's graduation all the way back in December...!

What are you doing before starting back?

FREE Themed Room Printables!

2011-07-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine shared this link with me and OH MY GOODNESS does it rock!

http://teachfactory.com/?page_id=31

Here's a little bit about it:

Theme packs available {so far!} below are Robots, Ocean, Zebra, Moose, Monsters, Wolves, Owls in Space, Retro Owls:), Ladybugs, Jungle, Pirates, Hollywood, Paws.

The theme packs below may contain the following items:

Nametags – Print 3 per page then write students names on and laminate!

Small Tags – Great for lockers, books, or even to use as a smaller desk nametag for older students. 8 tags per sheet.

Bookmarks – Welcome your students with a great matching themed bookmark or provide as a reading incentive. Hole punch the top and add ribbon for an extra cute bookmark! 3 Bookmarks per page.

Welcome Sign – Print and laminate so everyone will know your theme from the hallway!

Hall Pass – Print two per page. Either laminate or use decoupage glue to affix these pass labels to a block of wood!

Stationary – Full page colorful stationary! Great for welcome letter, Star Student letter, or anything you might need theme-matching paper for!

Accents - These accents can be cut out and decoupaged on flower pots, wooden desk accessories, placed on bulletin board, put on magnets for your board…anything is possible! Dress up your theme by printing and displaying accents around your room!

Classroom Money – Some themes contain printable classroom money. Photocopy these on colored paper for an instant token economy in your classroom! You can also order your own personalized classroom money below

Enjoy!!! Let me know what you think of it?

Lining Up Songs- Share!

2011-07-23T08:27:00.000-07:00

Something new I want to try this year in my K room is having a variety of songs when we line up (or something to do each time). My group last year (for many reasons...) struggled with lining up.

I was reading Lil Country Kindergarten and read about her song she does for the hallway:

Are you ready for the hall?

(Tune: Do Your Ears Hang Low)

Are your eyes facing forward?

Are your hands behind your back?

Are you standing in a line?

Are you leaving any gaps?

Are you ready for the hall?

Does your behavior show it all?

Let's do the right thing.

The one I did all of last year was "Are your shoulders standing in a row." It was cute and the kids would start singing it before I even prompted them.

"Are your shoulders standing in a row? If they are, you're ready to go. Straight and tall, stand just so, are your shoulders standing in a row?"

Any other ideas? I'd like to have a little bucket or something to pull from so it's different every time. What are any cute songs or tricks you do when your kids line up?

Sonoran Salad Recipe

2011-07-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for an incredible and incredibly easy recipe that seriously tastes gourmet? I cant't take any credit for this, as it comes from my great Aunt Rosalie. :)

It's called "Sonoran Salad" and it is to DIE for...

Ingredients:

1 large head romaine lettuce (I opted for a mixed greens bag)
1 large tomato chopped
1 large avocado sliced
6 slices bacon fried and crumbled
3 oz feta
1 medium red onion chopped

Dressing Recipe:

3/4 cup vegetable oil or olive oil
1/4 cup vinegar
1 clove garlic minced
1 tsp salt
4 tsp sugar
pepper to taste

Put all ingredients ontop of salad in a pretty rainbow like row and ta-da! Best sald you've ever had. We are addicted here at the Coffey House.

Speaking of food addictions, a friend from small group introduced me to this incredible lemon chicken orzo dish. I had never had orzo and oh my goodness is it heavenly.

Thanks, Kandace! ;)

Teacher Sales this week (in KC, at least) :)

2011-07-19T20:22:00.000-07:00

Check them out! :) Let me know if you've heard of anything else?

Mardel Teacher Sale 20% Off

Free Teacher Store? No way.

2011-07-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

I was going through my blog newsfeed tonight and came across this blog, Fabulous in First- and read about a store that is completely FREE to teachers in Cincinnati (I didn't spell that right). :) Does that not just BLOW your MIND!?!! Click on the link below to read more. What an amazing and generous concept.

http://fabulousinfirst.blogspot.com/2011/07/teacher-heaven-on-earth.html

Road to Recovery

2011-07-18T20:41:00.000-07:00

I feel so pathetic blogging about my foot but it is amazing (I'll say it again..) how much you use your FEET! And how consuming it is when one does not WORK!!

I got up early and started calling down the list of podiatrists til I could find one that I could get in to see today. I found one right off the bat, and got into see him at 1:30.

Got ready, headed to school for 2 1/2 hours or so to do some more work in my classroom. The latest projects:

putting the room back together in general
pulling EVERYTHING out of themed file folders and putting them into labeled and organized themed binders- amazing! (i can't stand file folders for some reason)

Headed from school to the pod doc- his name was Dr. Nielson and looked to be younger than me. Scary. But he mentioned having a 4 year old so I guess that put him close to 30 probably, if not early 30s. I feel bad for doctors who look so young- if it scares me, I can't imagine how older people feel! At least he wasn't doing surgery or anything. :)

The nurse had me have a x-ray (which I asked, "Is this neccesary?") and she assured me they do this to ensure there's no fracture or bone spurs. It came back clear, and it was confirmed that I do in fact have the oh-so-lovely plantar fascitis. I'm on a "strict" regime of icing, stretching, anti-inflamatory meds, muscle/foot creme, and just taking it easy. I of course asked him hesitantly if this silly foot would be better by August 17th (aka the Kinders enter...) and he said most likely. As far as exercise goes, he said just to take it slow and easy- so I will do just that tomorrow, by trying out the eliptical and yoga again. We'll see how it goes.

If all these things don't work, there's always amputation. :-D

Always Exciting. :)

2011-07-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

You may be thinking- "Hmmm what is this?" Well, my friend- let me tell you...

The same day Scouty Boy had his run-in with the skin infection (which is healing slowly now), I encountered a problem that is a constant struggle and pain (extreme pain)0 called plantar fascitis.

I've been reading about it and talked with a trainer at the gym- sounds like a slow recovery that I need to speed up exponentially with school right around the corner. Long story short, this condition is caused usually by overuse (AKA me actually going to the gym daily) and makes walking and any pressure on the foot extremely painful.

The lack of blogging has been partly caused by this newfound issue that I am ready to solve by amputation. :)

Anyone else dealt with this lovely condition? It's amazing how much you need your feet...!

Amateur.

2011-07-14T21:16:00.000-07:00

So I just attempted another banner and wow, am I a newbie or what. I consider myself somewhat technically savvy but when it comes to this blog design/html/babble... I am LOST.

Any tips on creating a beginnger-level banner? (I've already googled tutorials and I'm obviously unable to follow those.) :)

THANK YOU in advance!!

Megan

Scout's Rough Day :(

2011-07-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

Our poor, poor baby.... what a day he has had. This picture is of Scout when I got home from the vet.

My friend, Laura, found a spot behind his ear today that was sticky (gross, I know), matted, and just weird. So glad she found it because I immediately took him to the vet to find that he has an infected patch of skin. Apparently dogs can get these from just a scratch that got infected (probably from the lake at the dog park/beach). So long story short, we couldn't see his regular vet (who is AMAZING.. and he loves) and saw the other person who he was not having any of. He was scared of the guy and even barked at him, totally unlike Scout. For this reason ontop of his anxiety, they couldn't get the spot shaved to clean- so they sedated him. Not fun. I had to go back and talk to him to help him come out of the anethesia.

From then on, this poor dog has been a zombie that acts like he's strung out on every drug on the planet. His legs are like spaghetti and he is beyond depressed to have to wear the dreaded 'flower of death' to keep him from scratching.

passed out.

He's on anti-itch meds and some antibiotics and hopefully he'll be back to good in no time. Poor guy. :(

Dogopoly with the "Kids"

2011-07-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

Our exciting Saturday evening via pictures. :) I had just finished hosting my friend's shower and was wiped!

For those of you who don't know, our "kids" are Scout on the left and Oliver on the right. :)

Social Parade Friday!

2011-07-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

My name's Megan and I'm a Kindergarten teacher, wife, daughter, sister, and mom to a 2 year old yellow lab, Scout! I am a novice at just about everything so if you want to find an expert to follow, look away. lol :) I am learning and share the journey via blogging!

Thanks for stopping by/following! :)

First EVER Clothing Project!: Elastic Banded Skirt

2011-07-07T15:56:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine, Jen, and I have many things in common... we both love our dog(s), both teachers, and most of all... both into crafting! She came over today and we got to work.

Her battle (well, easy for her!) was a runner for her kitchen table.

My battle (for real) was this elastic banded skirt I saw over @ Ruffles and Stuff

(this is her picture above)

I got to work following her tutorial and appreciated the pictures being the visual learner that I am...

And ended up with this! Not perfect, but what do you think? The whole project costed about 12 bucks. *everything bought from JoAnns- 40% off coupon+15% teacher discount*

Scout: "What in the world is she doing now..."

Took me a long time to do but I think it came out okay!! Now onto this...

Crepe Paper Wreath from A Glimpse Inside

Shopping Bargains

2011-07-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love Joann's, Michaels, and Hobby Lobby... (especially that Michael's is now offering 15% off for teachers all the time!)

While out this afternoon, I found three cute little things- well, two- haha can't count the corn handle things.

The pocket organizer I'll use at school- I always wanted something small to carry around.

We've been in major need of these corn holders- they were 70% off- my style.

And to feed my bird obsession, salt and pepper shakers at 60% off- 3 bucks.

CUTE.

And to make things worse, I was at Mardel's in the teacher section and found an entire AREA of OWL STUFF...!!!! So I am seriously considering doing an owl theme in my room, at least for the beginning of the year. :) I already have this for ourstide my room:

(above is an example I found online)

Have you found any good bargains lately?

Coffeys Celebrate the 4th

2011-07-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we enjoyed hosting my wonderful in-laws in from Chicago! As tradition, we watched the Corporate Woods fireworks display from our backyard (does it get any better than that?) :)

Hope you had a memorable 4th!

hard life

petsitting "guest"- Tillie :)

Chris and his parents

me and my parents

Bridal Shower Inspirations

2011-07-02T18:21:00.000-07:00

As I've been planning an upcoming shower for a friend, I've come across so many neat and creative ideas! There are so many talented people in this world, I tell you...

2 years down!

2011-06-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Chris and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary- hard to believe!

In order to do something fun yet budget-friendly, we visited our college "home" of Manhattan, KS. We stayed at this darling B&B called the Morning Star and loved it. It didn't hurt that they had 3 adorable Boston Terriers. :)

The "Chai Spice" room (all the rooms are named after teas)

loved the wanescotting (spelling?)

visiting Bluestem, our fave. coffee place and site of many first dates

and oh my, have prices gone UP...!! Ouch!

present time! we're doing the traditional gifts each year (paper last year, cotton this year..)

Any One Tree Hill fans out there? (tv show) This was a creative and hilarious gift Chris got me, along with a beautiful pink scarf handmade from Guatemala- and to make it even better, the money went to provide 14 bowls of dog food! :)

Boring, I know- but I was desperate. Got Chris two nice shirts- one dressy and one casual.

Here's to the next year!

Latest Project (finally..!): Handmade Placemats

2011-06-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

These little suckers have been on my list to make for awhile and this week, my mom and I tackled this tedious but pretty neat project. Before I share, all the credit goes to my mom who helped me pretty much every step of the way!!

**Note to self: glass reflects. Will remember this next time. ;)

And if you get bored with the lemon side.....

Just flip them over! :)

Materials: I bought all of this stuff from Joann's.

1 1/2 yards of green fabric
1 1/2 yards of yellow fabric

(yields 6 placemats with a little leftover)

Polyester batting

Whattya think? :)

My first ever Donor's Choose Project!

2011-06-24T06:19:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Donor's Choose? What an amazing website and concept.

I've seen this on a few blogs and then heard about it again the other day at our school's Debbie Diller conference. The basic concept is that teachers can post projects of things they need for their classrooms and anyone in the country can donate. As I was browsing the site, it amazed me the number of projects that have been funded and that random people would just give to people they don't even know! Pretty cool.

Here's a link to mine- tell me what you think?

http://www.donorschoose.org/mrscoffeyskindergarten

Bacon and Corn Chowder Soup Makeover

2011-06-22T16:26:00.000-07:00

click here to see the recipe on the site

Tonight we are trying one of my favorite soups slimmed-down style! :)

I used turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and also did not include salt. I used skim milk and did not include the bell pepper mix.

Bon appetit!

This recipe received 4 out of 5 stars from the Cooking Light magazine...

YIELD: 6 servings (serving size: 1 cup)

COOK TIME: 14 MINUTES PREP TIME: 2 MINUTES COURSE: Main Dishes, Soups/Stews

Ingredients

2 bacon slices
1/2 cup refrigerated prechopped celery, onion, and bell pepper mix
2 (16-ounce) packages frozen baby gold and white corn, thawed and divided
2 cups 1% low-fat milk divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup (3 ounces) reduced-fat shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (such as Cracker Barrel)
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Preparation

1. Cook bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp.(no idea what that is, I did my turkey bacon in a pan!) Remove bacon from pan; crumble and set aside. Add celery mixture and 1 package corn to drippings in pan; sauté 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

2. Place remaining 1 package corn and 1 cup milk in a blender, and process until smooth. Add pureed mixture to vegetables in pan; stir in remaining 1 cup milk, salt, black pepper, and cheese. Cook over medium heat (do not boil), stirring constantly, until cheese melts. Ladle chowder into bowls. Top each serving evenly with reserved crumbled bacon. Sprinkle with additional black pepper, if desired.

New Project: Placemats tips anyone?

2011-06-22T06:50:00.000-07:00

About to head to power pilates which may leave me unable to even USE a sewing machine later.... :) Seriously. But I am planning on attempting at making my own placemats this afternoon. I've been wanting to do this forever and haven't learned how.

PS: Still stumped on a 2nd year anniversary gift for Chris... yikes. Who would have thought cotton would be this hard?

Tips on either of these topics would be much appreciated!

Chi-Town Trip in Pics

2011-06-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

Kelly and I's trip to Chicago in pictures:

American girl store!

cab rides=interesting

peacefest- what a hoot..

amazing greek food at the Athenian

until next time. :)

HOO am I?

2011-06-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

Here we go!

1. What is you favorite summertime snack?

Popsicles and fruit, ice tea with mint

2. Do you tan at all? (tanning bed, outside, spray, etc)

Noooooooo!! Sunscreen Queen here. I use the MAX number of sunscreen protection and will definitely sit out at the pool, but am not out to get tan. My goal is to have great skin at 50 and beyond. :) We'll see if it pays off!

3. What is your favorite activity to do outside?

Pool, dog park with Scout, BBQ

4. Do you recycle?

That is an ongoing marital debate. :) Our neighborhood will be doing it (free) starting in January of 2012.

5. How hot is it where you live today?

91 degrees- there is no "spring" in Kansas. :)

Excited to meet other bloggers! Thank you for stopping by!

Balsamic Salad Recipe and a Movie Review: Something Borrowed

2011-06-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

In today's post, I share a yummy recipe Chris and I just had for lunch as well as a movie review of Something Borrowed! :) Hope you are having a very happy Sunday!

Can you say YUM?

So I am very picky with what goes in my salad so I will post the recipe below, but I left out many of the ingredients such as the cheese and tomatoes. The items in bold are the ones I used.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced shallots
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 garlic clove, crushed
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1/4 cup dried cherries chopped
2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese

Preparation

1. Combine first 8 ingredients in a large bowl; stir well with a whisk. Add lettuce, dried cherries, and cheese; toss gently to coat.

It was delicious! And even better with italian bread to dip in the leftover dressing.

On Friday night, a good friend and I went to dinner and then to see this movie. I've been wanting to see it for awhile and it was worth the wait! I loved it so much that I ordered the book sequel to it called Something Blue. If you like romantic comedies that are a little 'deeper' than the average, this is a great movie for you. I highly reccommend and can't wait to read this book!:

How cool would it be to be such a good author that not only are you a New York Time's bestseller, but people make MOVIES out of your books?

Off to the grocery store and then for a fun afternoon evening on the Plaza. I love that place.

Featured!!! :)

2011-06-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

What a great way to start my Friday! I was featured on Lanie J. and Co.!

So excited. :) Oh, and what was featured? My blackened tilapia tacos! Check it out if you missed it- they were AMAZING.... Click here to see the post

Social Parade and an Organization Question...

2011-06-09T16:06:00.000-07:00

Hello! Welcome to CoffeyHouse- a blog about young married life, raising a young furry lab of 2 years, teaching Kindergarten, recipes, home decor, and other random things. :)

Question of the day: One of my summer goals is to organize that dreaded area underneath our cabinets where we store our containers, corningware, cooking stuff, etc. Any ideas on how to organize all of this stuff?

Healthy Blackened Tilapia Baja Tacos

2011-06-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

Don't you love the feeling of making a new recipe and it actually TATES good? I didn't think that was too much to ask until I started actually cooking. Barely being able to down a meal depresses me after the time (and money) that I put into it.

Last night, however, was not that case :)

We had my mom over for dinner since my dad was out of town. She helped me prepare this incredible dish that tasted like something from a Mexican restaurant- one of the best things I've made in awhile!

Blacked Tilapia Baja Tacos

This is a Cooking Light recipe:

YIELD: 4 servings (serving size: 2 tacos)

TOTAL: 20 MINUTES

COURSE: Main Dishes

Ingredients

1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped (we skipped this)
1 cup thinly sliced white onion
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
4 (6-ounce) tilapia fillets
1 tablespoon canola oil
8 (6-inch) corn tortillas
1/2 ripe peeled avocado
thinly sliced 4 lime wedges

Preparation

1. Combine first 4 ingredients in a food processor; process until smooth. Combine jalapeño sauce and onion in a small bowl.

2. Combine paprika and next 6 ingredients (through ground red pepper); sprinkle evenly over fish. Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add fish to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness.

3. Warm tortillas according to package directions. Divide fish, onion mixture, and avocado evenly among tortillas. Serve with lime wedges.

Writer's Workshop/Teacher's Summer to-do List

2011-06-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

Teacher Summer To-Do List:

What's on your summer teacher-to-do-list?

My BIG goal for next year is the mystery of Writer's Workshop. This is something I attemped at this past year but did it in a disorganized fashion. I am excited to be getting my Writer's Workshop squared away and ready to go. As I make progress, I am going to try to learn HOW to post things on here! I am still such a beginning but I want to start sharing things I do- if I can figure it out. So here are some questions for you:

Any tips on STARTING WW with Kindergartners?
Any tips on organizing?
Units of study?
Do you convert your word files to PDF before posting on your blog?
Any other advice for the newbie?

Thank you, thank you! Off to chop off my hair and then back to school to work. :)

Low-Fat Zesty Shrimp Pasta- YUM.

2011-06-07T15:26:00.000-07:00

What's on the table tonight: Low-Fat Zesty Shrimp Pasta

YUM. Highly recommend and easy to make. If you try it let me know!

coffeyhouse

100th Day.. a couple weeks late :)

Donors Choose

Baby Gifts Galore: Project #1 ABC Name Frame DIY

Back to Blogging

Exciting News from TOMS...!

Dinner Tonight: Crispy Cheddar Chicken compliments of Pinterest

Chicago Trip/Home Alone house visit!

Quick Christmas 2011 in review...

playing with the *new* camera..

Christmas Eve Eve

Merry Christmas EARLY! :)

Christmas Eve Dinner at the Coffey's

Kansas City Symphony Christmas Concert

Poinsettia Pillow DIY

Crafts and More Bad Behavior from Scout..

Christmas Par-tay

MIA

Teaching the Tricky Teens

quarter of a century birthday for the spousal figure

If you grew up in the 90's, you'll appreciate this.

Jesus was not a Native American- a Kindergarten story

FUNDED!!! :)

Way to go Dad! :)

I'm an AUTHOR! Well, kind of. :) Teacher Fashion Article on Estylechat

White Chicken Chili- DELISH.

Help! Making Literacy Stations more independent?

Back to my ROOTS... Texas Wedding Weekend

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Happy Halloween from the Coffeys!

Cheesy Enchilada Casserole

Dinner Tonight: Orange Chicken in the crock pot (minus the impossible-to-find ingredients)

Fun Fall Day w/the Fam :)

I have join Pinterest...!!!

ABC Nursury in the works! (preview of letters M and B) :)

Lemon Pepper Shrimp Scampi on Orzo

Exhausted.

Fall/Halloween Decor: Come on in!

Scout in the Fall

Free Dog.

Quick & Easy Greek Salad Recipe

Lemon Chicken Orzo Recipe (to die for)

Cooking Light's Top 12 Healthy Habits

Quick Life Update

Things I Love.

I'm going to kill my dog.

K Story of the Day...

Remembering 9-11

Limeaides for Learning!

Current favorite kids' book: City Dog, Country Frog

Night at the Dog Park

Saturday Projects

Unbelievably Sad Story.. and another reason I love labs.

Scout's Photo Shoot

Start of School Update

AMAZING Greek Salad Dressing

Lining Up Song Medley!

How to Host a Murder Mystery Dinner Party

What do you bring for Lunch?

Finally! My Classroom TOUR!

Meet the Teacher Night Idea Share *and scavenger hunt FREEbies!*

Scout's Summer

Adorable Clipboard Giveaway!

Cheap books online-Thriftbooks.com *Free Shipping!!*

Teachers+Students+Facebook= ???

Whole Wheat Banana Bread

Kindergarten Classroom Management- What works?

Linguine and Spinach with Gorgonzola Sauce from Cooking Light

Spanish Style Shrimp Pasta Recipe

FREE Themed Room Printables!

Lining Up Songs- Share!

Sonoran Salad Recipe

Teacher Sales this week (in KC, at least) :)

Free Teacher Store? No way.

Road to Recovery

Always Exciting. :)

Amateur.

Scout's Rough Day :(

Dogopoly with the "Kids"

Social Parade Friday!

playing with the new camera..

Meet the Teacher Night Idea Share and scavenger hunt FREEbies!

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New Project: Placemats tips anyone?