I didn’t know anything about leopard geckos before we got this guy for our Dino-loving first born, but he is so fun to watch when he comes out. (Most of the time we get to watch the crickets he eats. 🦗)

Friday snuggles, scrabble and mancala with my youngest (Not pictured).

I love to teach. I love the feeling of seeing someone feel equipped with knowledge to be independent at a task without ever feeling inadequate to begin with. Wherever I go, whatever I do, I will teach. Here is the catch: I will never again utilize my skill set at a school.

It was a long week at work because of a temporary shift change. I was soooo tired yesterday. (No where close to #teachertired though!) One of my last phone calls came through, and I answered, “This is Melissa. How can you help me?” I had a good laugh with the caller, thankfully!

I know the weather is so nice and these aren't needed right now but I have a large stock of ear warmers ready to mail. I would love to offer you a deal. $5 each $4 shipping BUT if you order 5 or more then shipping is on me! (Lower 48 only) #sidehustle #supportateacher #crochet

Any other 40+ friends out there start to say “go-go-gadget arms” then realize it makes no sense to children?

I had a dream that I was still teaching, and I was desperately searching for something at a teacher store that had to do with reading. Everything seemed too young or too old for my students, and I was so stressed that what I picked out would get me written up again. :(

My significant other was nominated and voted on as teacher of the month at his school. His first year teaching. I’m jealous but also so proud and would honestly loved to have had someone like him as a history teacher! 💕

If you’re a principal and your staff is afraid of you, you’re doing it wrong.

One of my memories from teaching: “We were learning about factor trees yesterday, and I picked a large, random number for us to factor. We didn’t get very far because we found that 3,163 is a prime number. PS Divisibility rules are cool.” From 2019

In 2018, more teachers left the profession than any other year prior. A year later, 2019, that number was surpassed. In 2020, that record was again surpassed. In 2021, AGAIN. It’s rarely spoken of as the emergency it is. Teaching is simply an unsustainable career for many.

Hey, #teachertwitter! Just a little background, Stephanie has been walking the education walk since I met her in college. I’ve already read her first book, and I can’t wait to read this one! Her books are for anyone in any field who wants to see kids succeed.

One week since #WholeChildWholeLife launched. Oversold already. Top-selling new release for Corwin Press. Hit various charts on Amazon. What absolute validation that even in the crazy of ending school and starting summer, people care about kids and want them to be well!

More than just an #education book or #parenting book, #WholeChildWholeLife is for anyone who cares for and about kids. Learn more here: wholechildwholelife.com

My kids have been a little whiny the last few months when I have stayed after work for adult tumbling. We made a breakthrough today! “I’ll be home after adult tumble tonight. Bye!” “Bye, mom! Have fun!” “Oh, you’re doing that tonight? Cool!” Love it. Love them.

I was given a card by a coworker today that confirmed once again that I’m where I’m supposed to be right now. I also share this to say, if someone encourages you or makes a difference in your life, tell them. 💕

Y’all! I assumed a dad was a grandpa today without thinking twice. I don’t like the feeling and awkwardness it creates. Ugh.

This is a list for a friend! She has worked hard to get her Master’s degree and is now going to be an elementary counselor. In honor of all of the counselors who have helped my kids and your kids, would you share or sprinkle Annie? Amazon.com amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls…