Teacher Week '13 - Meet the Teacher

I'm linking up with Blog Hoppin' for Teacher Week '13. I'm excited to meet some new blogger buddies this week and read about some great new ideas to implement in my classroom. 

Monday's Topic is "Meet the Teacher!" I'll tell you a little bit more about myself using pictures. We call this a photo essay in 2nd grade!

This is what I look like according to my students: 

I grew up in Indiana: 

and moved to San Francisco after college!

I teach 2nd grade & love it! Check out the frog life cycle below. Does it get much cuter? 

I do not like giving up control of my classroom to a substitute teacher. I leave so many post it notes, reminders, supplies and extra activities it's ridiculous. My desk usually looks like this when I have to take a day off: 

One of my favorite science units every year is teaching the students about plants. We conduct several experiments to learn the functions of each part: 

I used to be a gymnast when I was young. I competed with a club and my high school team. Sometimes, I still like to pretend I'm a gymnast: 

Since I'm not quite used to flipping around anymore (and usually see silver stars when I try!),  I decided to take up long distance running. I ran my first marathon last December and I'm currently training for my 2nd one! 

Sometimes, I find time to sew and make pilgrim outfits for colonial day: 

I usually have a booth at our school's annual Christmas Faire too. My days in 4H have paid off!

I am obsessed with avocados and making homemade guacamole on a near weekly basis: 

I love to travel and experience other cultures: 

Be sure to link up with Blog Hoppin' all week! 

Heather