• Home
  • Blog
  • Guided Math Conference
  • Guided Math AMPED
  • Guided Math PD
  • Contact Me
  • Privacy Policy

Tunstall's Teaching Tidbits

Teaching with Heart and Creativity

Let’s Get Real Personal Post.

This post has been on my mind for awhile.
I want to share my journey as a blogger, teacher, mom, wife, and TpTer…I know we all have a story to share.  It’s why we are bloggers! 

Here’s mine.

I first discovered teacher blogs in May of 2010.   I spent that Summer building my blog.  I learned code, tried out some graphics I got for free, and all in all spent $3 on creating a blog!  It was so amazing to connect with teachers, check stats, share ideas, and see what other teachers were doing in their rooms!  It was an escape that I couldn’t get enough of!

On my blog I could be funny.  I could be creative.  I could be anything I wanted to be.  It was an absolute outlet for me.  I spent endless hours reading posts and learning so much from everyone.

But months before blogging, my “real life” started to fall apart.   My husband told me one day in late 2009 that something was “wrong” and he needed to go to the doctor.  This isn’t too normal for him so I was worried.  The doctors could not give a name to what was going on with him, but after trying a few remedies they called it chronic pain and sent him to pain management.  At this point he was no longer working and the disability which was very small had run out.

My teacher salary was all we had.  My teacher salary is less than our monthly mortgage payment and we are a family of four.  We began to juggle bills with credit.  Not only was my husband in pain all day long, but he became depressed because he could not do anything but recline and even then he was in pain.  He didn’t sleep at night because he was always resting so his body didn’t want to sleep in a normal sleep pattern.  When I was home from work he was in his dark office reclining and dozing off and on throughout the evening.  Needless to say.  Things were difficult.

    I remember him saying the words pain management and it sounded like a life sentence.  I was a mess.  A total basket case, but I didn’t want anyone to know.  I was so scared.  My husband went for nerve deadening procedures every 6 weeks, but they did not help.  We would look forward to the procedures as if they would take care of everything…and then nothing.  I didn’t want to see friends and family because I didn’t want the dreaded question of how is your husband doing?

This went on for a year and a half before we decided to put our Texas dream house on the market.  We could no longer afford it and we had to do something or we were going to lose everything.  So we added another stressful layer of putting our home on the market. 

    It was terrible.  It was dark and scary.  The night before it was time for yet another procedure, we were having a marriage group at our home and my husband for the first time shared that he needed prayer.  Everyone knew that things were not good for him or for us, but this time he verbalized it and our pastor and friends from church prayed for him right then in our home.  I was so hopeful the next day and as I sat in the waiting room during his procedure.  When he came out he looked miserably awful. (Is that a word?)  I will never forget his face when he was wheeled out of the room.  They got him into our car and on the way home I had to pull over twice for him to get sick.  It was so terrible.  I was crying and wondering how we would ever get through life. 

The next morning, my husband walked out of his office and said…”I think this time it worked…I feel like trying jumping jacks!”

 I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.  Month after month I had felt that he and the doctors had given up.  That there was no hope.  That this was going to be our life. I was amazed and I have no other explanation than the healing power of prayer.

My hubs started easing off the medicine and the pain was not returning.  He started looking for a new job.  Our house was still for sale because we were so far into debt that it seemed like the only solution. I begged him to just take back his old job.  We were so beyond desperate for a paycheck.  He said he just wasn’t ok with going back.  I was so upset with him yet I knew that he wasn’t happy with his previous job.

 Within a month of looking during a bad economic time, husband got a job with a company that has so much more to offer than his old job!  He is in finances and he has really taken off with his new job.  Things for me took off with TeacherspayTeachers through blogging, and we no longer had to lose our dream house!  We took it off the market in April.  This year since January has been a complete turn around for our family.  We have been able to recover from a very dark time in our lives and live life better than either one of us hoped for.  We even got to go on our first family vacation since moving to Texas in 2007.

I learned so many lessons looking back at those two dark years…

I learned that teaching is a passion and as miserable as you can be at home, when you are in the classroom working with children you can completely forget everything else and get lost in your passion.  Working with those sweet children absolutely saved my sanity.  If you can believe this I was teacher of the year while all this was going on at home.  I had thrown all of myself into teaching because I had to put my mind on something other than my home life.

I learned that without going through the dark depressing times, we would not have found these new jobs/passions that both of us love and are so grateful for.  We would not have changed our path had it not been changed for us.

I learned that my husband and I can get through anything.  Our relationship was put through the test and there was a lot of low lows between us during those 2 years, but now we know what we are made of together.

I learned that my children can go without and they will be ok.

I learned the joy of having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for dinner 3 nights a week…ok that was not fun.  I didn’t enjoy that at all.  We love to eat and it was very hard to be stuck with a bare pantry. 

I mostly learned that God has perfect timing.  I certainly didn’t think things were going to ever be ok.  I couldn’t see any reason why we were going through any of that while we were going through it.  But as I look back, I see how as things happened it changed our path, our thinking, and our plans. 

I don’t know if my story will help anyone else out there.  I hope somehow it will.  I have been nervous to share and really put it all out there.  On my blog I can be funny, and I can be “perfect” but real life is just so…real.

Ok….now that that is off my chest….

Since this is a personal post,  I am joining the linky at  First Grade and Fabulous to share a family recipe!  (and some family Thanksgiving pictures too)

This is a rice dressing that we serve at Thanksgiving.  My grandmother was the first to make it for me and let me tell you, I don’t normally love to eat rice, but this is SO different!  It’s absolutely delicious!  It can even go in the bird as your stuffing if you are not big on bread stuffing. 

Plus if anyone has to eat gluten free at your get together this is a perfect dish for them!
Here’s a few pictures from last Thanksgiving!

Please link up your family recipes so we can all enjoy!
Signature

80 Comments Filed Under: Uncategorized

  • Sign up for the Monthly Newsletter

    Join the mailing list to get free downloads in a monthly newsletter.

  • Related Posts

    • Resources for Teaching Writing
    • Howdy Partners! Come Take A Tour of our Texas Studies!
    • Must Haves for My New School Year
    • HolidaysDigital Holidays Around the World

    Comments

    1. Katie King says

      November 7, 2012 at 12:59 am

      Reagan!! I did NOT intend to cry reading your post! Thank you so much for sharing such a personal part of your life. I adore you my friend!

      Reply
    2. Lori Rosenberg says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:02 am

      Reagan,

      I admired you before this post for your incredible talent. Now, I admire you even more, knowing what you have endured, and seeing how you have emerged. God bless you and your beautiful family. May you continue to be blessed each and every day.

      Ѽ Lori
      Teaching With Love and Laughter
      [email protected]

      Reply
    3. Beth says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:03 am

      Thank you for your honesty! Sometimes it helps to know that we aren't alone.

      Sending prayers your way. 🙂

      Reply
    4. Rachel says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:05 am

      Thank you for sharing your story! I am glad things are getting better for you and your family! Glad you are also on TPT! I love your work and have bought lots:)

      [email protected]

      Reply
    5. Nicole Heinlein says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:05 am

      Thank you for sharing your story, Reagan! It's a great reminder to us all that bloggers are real people and real people have problems. I'm so happy that blogging and TpT were able to help your family through a tough time and I'm so happy that your husband was able to bounce back after those scary medical issues. Hugs to you, friend!
      Nicole
      Teaching With Style

      Reply
    6. Gladys says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:06 am

      Reagan..your post brought tears to my eyes. All I have to say is thank God for the power of prayer! It's so nice to have read this and know that you are real…just like the rest of us…I hope and pray that your family continues to find happiness and success. 🙂

      P.S. Your family recipe looks so yummy!

      Reply
    7. Mandy says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:06 am

      Reagan, thank for sharing that story. It really hit home for me. Here's to praying that things will continue to go well for you and your family.

      Reply
    8. Vickie says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:07 am

      I'm so, so glad you posted this!! I felt like I was almost reading part of my husband and mine's story. Ever since his wreck and not being able to work, things have been really hard but making bloggy friends and hearing that other people have come through all the tough times makes me so happy!! Love ya friend!
      Vickie

      Reply
    9. Linsay Humphrey says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:08 am

      This is so encouraging! We are not nearly going through what you went through, but my husband is starting a new business and it is scary and stressful. We are depending on my salary, which we can do, but it's hard. Faith is definitely what has gotten us through so far. I love reading your posts knowing that we teach in the same city :). Thanks for sharing your heart!

      First Grade with a TwiSt

      Reply
    10. LYNDSEY says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:08 am

      Your story made me cry…thank you so much for sharing! It is so easy to look at someone and think they have it all figured out and that their life is "perfect." It is amazing how things happen in life. What a big blessing you are to us all!

      Reply
    11. luvzenkms2(Leea) says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:15 am

      Thanks for sharing, I too agree when things get bad you go into the classroom and the kids help. ((((HUGS)))) for sharing your creativity with us!

      Reply
    12. absees123s says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:21 am

      Thank you for sharing this story. I have had to wipe the tears away to see the keyboard..you are incredibly strong!

      Reply
    13. Holly says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:22 am

      You touch so many lives in so many ways…thanks for putting yourself out there. We love ya!!!!!

      Holly
      Crisscross Applesauce in First Grade

      Reply
    14. Amy Howbert says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:22 am

      The tears welled…your story was so beautiful, because that's what family is built upon…love, and how faith in a great God can move us beyond anything we can imagine. A beautiful story, God is so faithful!
      Amy Howbert

      Little Miss Organized
      [email protected]

      Reply
    15. Stephanie says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:23 am

      Reagan your story made me tear up too! I always knew you were an incredible teacher from following your blog, but reading this story highlights what a strong wife, mother, and woman you are!! So many of us have gone through incredibly difficult times, but it's not always easy to talk about them even with loved ones. I know your story will bring hope to many others out there who are also going through difficult times right now. So happy to hear that your husband is doing better now. Thanks for sharing a little piece of your heart with us tonight!!

      ❤ -Stephanie
      Falling Into First

      Reply
    16. Miss Squirrels says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:26 am

      All joking aside (this time)
      You are an amazing woman raising an amazing family! You have so many gifts to offer so many people in your life- your love of teaching and children, your passion for creating, and your cheery take on situations that others can find no bright side to-
      My life is definitely brighter with you in it:)

      Love
      Squirrels

      Reply
    17. Kristin says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:27 am

      LOVED reading this. Big hugs to you. I'm so happy all is well now, but please know I'd pray you and your family ANY TIME.
      Sending lots of love!!!! 🙂

      Reply
    18. Giggles and Squeals says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:28 am

      WOW! What a journey! I can't believe that someone can just go into so much pain with no real answer. The struggle you must have had to go through. I am so blessed to have found you! I am lucky that I get to "pick" your brain and see your ideas to help make my little classroom run just a little more smooth!

      Thank you for sharing your story! I can't believe that after he asked for prayer, that he finally got his answer! Amazing!

      Reply
    19. oh' boy says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:37 am

      nice post friend… I felt your passion and pain as I read it… you really put your heart out there and I am sure you will touch many lives with this post!!!

      Reply
    20. Tessa says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:37 am

      LOVE this Reagan! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
    21. Jessica says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:37 am

      Thank you for sharing your story!! I got chills reading it. The power of prayer is amazing. Glad to see everything is working out for you and your family. I am thankful for what blogs can do and your ideas have reached to my jam backed classroom.
      Jessica

      Apples and Papers

      Reply
    22. The Wild Rumpus says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:39 am

      Thanks for sharing, and I'm so happy for you and your family. It's so true that we appreciate the good times more for having gone through the hard ones.

      Reply
    23. S. Simpson says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:42 am

      What a great post. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. May God continue to bless you and your family.
      Stacy

      Reply
    24. Jodi says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:50 am

      You definitely brought tears to my eyes!! You are so amazing and your story just lets everyone know that bloggers are "real" people and life is not "perfect." I'm so sorry you had to go through all of that, but thank God that he has brought you through it and made you so much stronger!! You are amazing!!!

      ❀Jodi
      Fun In First

      Reply
    25. Kim says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:52 am

      Wow. It is awesome of you to open up such a personal part of your life to all your followers. Not only are you a testimony to the power of prayer, but also that we never know what someone might be dealing with in life. I have also found that teaching provides a wonderful escape when life outside the classroom is in turmoil. Those kiddos need us so much our own troubles have to take a back burner for a few hours at least. Your post has reminded me of my blessings during this season of thanks!

      Reply
    26. Tanya says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:54 am

      WOW! Your story is amazing. Thank you for sharing something so personal with all of us. May God's blessings continue for your family.

      ☺ Tanya
      First Grade is Fantabulous!

      Reply
    27. Anita says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:55 am

      Thanks for keeping it real. So glad that God has shown you His plans, and has turned things around for your family! Lots to be thankful for!
      Anita
      Mrs. Bremer’s Kindergarten

      Reply
    28. Lisa R. says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:56 am

      You and your family have certainly been through a lot. Thank you so much for trusting us to share your personal story with us. I'm so inspired by you and am so glad that everything has seemed to work out for the best. May God continue to bless you and your family.
      Lisa
      Learning Is Something to Treasure

      Reply
    29. Jennifer says

      November 7, 2012 at 2:07 am

      Love you friend!
      Rowdy in First Grade

      Reply
    30. Nicole says

      November 7, 2012 at 2:12 am

      Thanks for sharing Reagan! I'm so glad that you and your family made it through the toughest of times and I love getting to know you better! God always has a perfect plan and entrusting your lives in his hands I'm sure that you have learned even more than you know from your experiences.
      Nicole

      Reply
    31. Susan Moran says

      November 7, 2012 at 2:24 am

      Reagan, thank you SO much for sharing that hard part of your life with us. I know that must've been difficult to type and I hope you found it therapeutic to blog about. Your family is so blessed to have you and I have loved getting to know just a little slice of you!

      🙂 Hugs,
      Susan

      Reply
    32. megandw says

      November 7, 2012 at 2:36 am

      I'm so glad you shared your inspirational story. It is so nice to get to know you better! Its nice to hear that things are going well now…aren't teachers the best? 🙂

      Reply
    33. Karyn says

      November 7, 2012 at 2:43 am

      Thanks so much for sharing that part of your life with us! It took a lot of courage for you to write that and I admire you so much for doing so! It was heartbreaking to hear what you were all going through for that time period but such a heartwarming and uplifting ending! I am So THANKFUL your husband is well! Thanks for letting us in to know even more about you! Thanks too for reminding us all that no one's life is truly "perfect" but prayer and perseverance can work miracles!
      Hugs!
      œKaryn
      A is for Apple B is for Blog
      [email protected]

      Reply
    34. Michelle says

      November 7, 2012 at 2:56 am

      Thank you for sharing your story. What a story of hope and inspiration.

      Reply
    35. Fern Smith says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:08 am

      With God all things are possible! What a wonderful story, you're amazing!
      ~Fern

      Reply
    36. Sandra says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:16 am

      You are amazing!! 🙂

      Thank you for sharing your truly inspiring story!

      Sandra
      Sweet Times in First
      [email protected]

      Reply
    37. J-Fed says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:20 am

      perseverance and prayer.. and yes, we could all go without so much of what we have when it all comes down to it.. you must feel a weight off of you just by sharing.. I love your blog and TPT products and all that you share – thank you <3

      Reply
    38. Crayons and Curls says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:31 am

      Thank you for sharing your story! So inspiring! It helps remind me that God has a plan for all of us, we just have to be patient! Hugs to you!
      Cheryl
      Crayons and Curls

      Reply
    39. Patty Rutenbar says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:34 am

      Your post shows just how strong your love for your husband is. It certainly could have ended with a split up or even a divorce. . . but it didn't. You not only survived, you are now RE-Vived! I loved reading this and getting to know another side of your life. You're right. . . we all have many things going on in our lives and we do a good job of masking it. But once your husband came out and shared with others, look how your life changed. Lesson learned. . . don't wait so long to ask for help!
      Patty
      Second In Line

      Reply
    40. Laura says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:43 am

      What a gracious, generous post! Thank you so much for putting yourself out there. Life can certainly be interesting! Thank you for reminding us we are all going through it together. I believe in the power of prayer, girl! Praise God for your precious family, at home and at school! You are truly a blessing!
      Laura
      Peace, Love, and First Grade

      Reply
    41. amysreading says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:49 am

      God Bless you, Reagan! You are amazing! Your passion for teaching has made a difference in countless lives, in blogword, in your classroom, and in your family. All the best to you and your family!

      Reply
    42. Anonymous says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:52 am

      You are brave and inspiring! Thank you for sharing such a personal story. I'm sure that someone somewhere read your post and felt reassured by it. I know I have.

      Reply
    43. Kindergarten Myles says

      November 7, 2012 at 3:58 am

      Thank you for sharing your story. It hit home for me. When we had our third child, my husband was injured at work four days before and when I came home from my c-section he sent in for the infection in his leg. A flood from a county water pipe destroyed our pool and damaged the basement. Meanwhile, I switched schools due to construction. Through it all, I have worked my job and additional school jobs like teaching teachers and creating for our county's electronic resources. It is hard when your husband has to deal with health issues and something you don't really understand until faced with it. Different from a parent or child because the bond is different. I seriously considered creating my own blog after discovering them this past year. As much as I love everyone's blog and creating my own materials which I share with K friends in county, it seems too much for me. It amazes me how many different bloggers find the humor and creativity with all they have in their loves. 🙂 How nice to hear how your story is turning out. And the empty cupboard and pbj sandwiches…I don't think they are anyone's favorite thing except maybe my son. 🙂

      Reply
    44. ~DeAnne~ says

      November 7, 2012 at 4:10 am

      Thank you for feeling comfortable enough with us to share your story. The power of prayer is AMAZING. I remember many a times eating soup and grilled cheese because that is all we could afford for our family due to job losses, and house, among other things. Prayer goes a long way!! My heart goes out to you, and so glad that things are so much better.

      Thank you for linking up. The recipe looks FABULOUS, and those pies—OHH my!!

      Reply
    45. A Tale of 2 First Grades says

      November 7, 2012 at 4:26 am

      Reagan
      Oh my word! You have been through an amazing venture . It's great to hear you give your glory to God! One of the reasons I love reading blogs is because of the willingness of others to voice their faith, we might not be able to do that in our classrroms but we sure can on our blogs!!!! So glad to hear life has turned around for you! Congrats on teacher of the year !!!

      Reply
    46. Kristi says

      November 7, 2012 at 4:28 am

      Thank you for sharing….sometimes someone's story can make you take a deeper look at your own life and what you have to be thankful for and where a little prayer may be just the right thing.
      Very glad to hear that your husband is feeling better and your family is in a better place.

      Reply
    47. Kelley Dolling says

      November 7, 2012 at 4:56 am

      What a heartfelt, thoughtful, and brave post. You are such an amazing person and I loved that you took that leap of faith and opened up. Hugs sweet friend.

      Kelley

      Reply
    48. Susie Q says

      November 7, 2012 at 5:16 am

      Reagan, thank you so much for sharing this. I too, have been going through an extremely rough two years, unfortunately I'm not seeing a light at the end of the tunnel yet. I'm so happy things are looking up for you. It gives me great hope.

      Learning With Susie Q

      [email protected]

      Reply
      • Teacher Kirra says

        November 7, 2012 at 9:01 am

        Hang in there Susie Q! Eventually, things will get better and, like Reagan, you will be able to see the purpose behind the struggle as you look back on it. Don't forget to have faith, and stay as open as possible to learning the lesson that the situation might be trying to teach you. You're in my prayers tonight <3

        Reply
      • Susie Q says

        November 11, 2012 at 4:35 am

        Thank you!

        Reply
    49. Sherry says

      November 7, 2012 at 5:28 am

      Women are amazing. Without us, holidays wouldn't exist, families wouldn't be as strong, and the world just wouldn't be right! We are the keepers of traditions, the keepers of hearts and the keepers of secrets. I too have a chronically ill husband, who over the last 20 years of marriage, has given me three sons to love, memories to hold dear and love to share. In that time, we also have faced more adversity than most married couples, lived through many lean times, and continue to struggle with his uncertain future. Yet, I know that God gave him to me to love unconditionally. Pray is an amazing thing and only when your faith is stronger than your fear, will your life have meaning. God bless!

      Reply
    50. Barbara says

      November 7, 2012 at 5:33 am

      What a beautiful post, Reagan. I love how honest you are and I'm so happy for you and your family that things have turned around. Hugs to you!

      Barbara
      Grade ONEderful
      Ruby Slippers

      Reply
    51. Jill says

      November 7, 2012 at 5:44 am

      I am so happy things have turned around for you. I have had a change in health and you have also given me hope that at some point things will get better.
      Bless you and your family, just so you know you have saved me week after week with your visual plans, teaching ideas and materials. Thank you so very much, you have been tan answer to my prayers.
      Jill

      Reply
    52. jeday0323 says

      November 7, 2012 at 12:27 pm

      What a beautiful post! Thank you for sharing your story. May God bless your family's future!

      Reply
    53. Monica G says

      November 7, 2012 at 1:38 pm

      Wow! What a testiment of God's power and your faith! I too received Teacher of the Year during one of the hardest phases of my life. I threw myself into teaching those 5th graders. God is so good and it warms my heart to know there are other teachers, women, moms, Christians out there who share issues that we think only we endure. Not only do you rock as a teacher, you seem to be an awesome woman of faith! God bless you and your family!

      Reply
    54. Debbie Jacobson says

      November 7, 2012 at 11:05 pm

      I have tears in my eyes reading your personal post today. My husband and I endured (the best word I can think of) the worst year and a half ever. His sister committed suicide a month before her wedding. His mom passed a month later. Dad has severe Alzheimer's and is now in a nursing home. My husband had a slip and fall and blew out his elbow. Two surgeries down, more to go. My Dad was rushed into the hospital and had open heart surgery, mom went into the hospital a bit later because she couldn't breathe. Stayed there a week and they never really figured out what happened. My 5 year old granddaughter was diagnosed with HSP (Henoch Schonlein Purpura). Thank God she is doing well with no lasting effect. Now looking back…we have each other and a deeper love than I ever could have imagined. People say, "God doesn't give you more than you can handle." No sir. God prepares you for what you will have to handle when it comes your way.
      God Bless All!
      Debbie

      Reply
    55. Michelle Tsivgadellis says

      November 7, 2012 at 11:30 pm

      Reagan, you are such a sweetheart & I am so blessed to have connected with you! I certainly know what you mean and I too, found blogging and TPT as my way to escape….

      You are so right that real life is….REAL..hahahaha

      Thank you for sharing your journey and I pray that you and your family will continue to grow and learn with each other! Your own success on the blogging world and on TPT is amazing!!

      I am so happy for you and your husband and your story is inspiring on so many levels!

      Thank you,
      Michelle
      The 3AM Teacher
      Visit My Blog

      Reply
    56. jessica w says

      November 8, 2012 at 12:23 am

      Thank you for sharing, we are going through similar times right now and its reassuring to know that eventually things will get better.

      Reply
    57. Karen Rowland says

      November 8, 2012 at 12:53 am

      I have been following you for the last few months and you are usually the first blog I look at when I sit dosn at my computer. I have been drawn to you and your site and have also been inspired to create my own blog and a few units on TpT as well. After your post, I totally know why I have been drawn to you. I love that you have "put it all out there" and that you felt comfortable enough sharing your story. I know God is getting the glory and that he wanted you to share for a reason! I know you have touched many lives of us "blog-creepers" out there! 🙂 One of my favorite Christian CD's is Mandisa's "What If we Were Real". The whole theme of this album is – what would happen if we were all "real" with each other. What if we told about our hurts and cry out to others when we need help. If we don't let other people know what's going on – how can they pray for us? How can they "stand in the gap" for us? I love that you were "real" and let others hear your testimony. Thank you so much for sharing! That makes me "love" you even more! 🙂

      ~Karen Rowland

      adventureswithfirsties.blogspot.com

      Reply
    58. Coast to Coast Kinder RandA says

      November 8, 2012 at 1:30 am

      WOW thanks for being so open and sharing! What an inspiring story! You are one strong & inspiring woman of God!! So good to ready a great life story!! SO glad things have looked up for you!

      Autumn Gill

      Reply
    59. Karen says

      November 8, 2012 at 1:39 am

      Thank you for sharing such an amazing story. It will surely bring comfort, hope, and thankfulness to all that read it. May God continue to bless you and your family!

      Karen
      An Apple a Day in First Grade

      Reply
    60. Elizabeth says

      November 8, 2012 at 2:54 am

      Thank you for being so honest and sharing your story.

      Reply
    61. Traci says

      November 8, 2012 at 3:23 am

      Wonderful story of determination and triumph Reagan! Lots of love to you my friend!

      Reply
    62. Mrs. Wathen says

      November 8, 2012 at 3:47 am

      You are an amazing wife, mother and teacher! Thank you for sharing as it puts life into perspective. All things are possible with God!

      Reply
    63. Lory says

      November 8, 2012 at 4:05 am

      You are such a sweetheart!!! Thank you for sharing. Life is full of untold stories that could really lift a friend or stranger. How brave, strong and wonderful you are as a wife, mother, teacher and blogger friend. Thanks for allowing my heart to be pricked tonight!! Congratulations on your accomplishments… you have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving 😉
      Sincerely,
      Lory

      Lory's Page

      Reply
    64. Kim Gibbons says

      November 8, 2012 at 12:03 pm

      Thanks so much for sharing your very inspiring story!! Love your blog and it's even more meaningful now!! Thank you!!

      Reply
    65. Teacher Mom of 3 says

      November 8, 2012 at 2:18 pm

      You have no idea how much your post inspired and encouraged me today! It is as if God led me to this post. May God bless and keep you and your beautiful family! Lauren Teacher Mom of 3

      Reply
    66. Ktbug says

      November 9, 2012 at 12:55 am

      Reagan–
      You were one of the first blogs I ever followed. Just like all of these other ladies, I always felt drawn to your blog–the way you wrote, your creative ideas for the classroom, and the passion you exuded for teaching. I have to be honest though, many times I felt as if I was reading the "perfect teacher/mother/wife" blog. I mean, you were always so upbeat, so positive, so, well…joyful! I couldn't even imagine that you would be dealing with all of these stressors at once! Thank you very much for making this very personal post public. It really reminds me to remember that everyone (even those people we think have it all!!) are struggling with something at any given moment. I am sorry you had to bear this cross alone for so long, and am so glad that you and your family were able to find solace!! Hugs to you–

      katie

      Reply
    67. Mrs. M says

      November 10, 2012 at 10:03 am

      God bless you & your precious family! I can't imagine what you went through and I am glad those dark days are behind you. God Bless you all! 🙂

      Reply
    68. Kelly Turk says

      November 10, 2012 at 3:08 pm

      Dear Reagan, Thank you for sharing your heartfelt thoughts. I love reading your blog and I am enjoying so many of your products with my first grade class, here in Florida! Your past experiences made me think about how the Lord weaves a masterpiece of our lives. My struggles and life challenges are similiar to yours. I too, went through many dark days with my husband (we are high school sweethearts-married for 27 yrs, 4 beautiful children) he suffered a career-ending NFL preseason football injury and spiraled down the road of depression and addiction. I, too, have said that my classroom/my students/my teaching has been my "saving grace". In the midst of our family hardships, I was also the "Teacher of the Year". I am certain that my "home-away-from-home" (my classroom &students) is what got me through it all (and my love for the Lord) While we are facing the messy parts of our life, it is oh so hard and everything is all "tangled up" like the back of a hand sewn fabric. BUT..when we turn it over…… the beautiful result is a masterpiece!!! It is as though we look back and wonder "how did I get through that?" when, indeed, God had His sovereign plan all along-His plan for us to flourish, to create a masterpiece unseen , at the time of struggles, when we are still in the middle of sewing the mixed up threads in the back. I am happy that your masterpiece is turned over and that the Joy, indeed, comes in the morning! God Bless You and your sweet family. Thank you for all your wonderful ideas and for sharing your gifts of teaching that the Lord has so abundantly blessed you with! With love, Kelly Turk ([email protected])

      Reply
    69. Amy says

      November 11, 2012 at 2:44 pm

      This is my first time visiting your blog but I could not help but leave a comment. We have been through near the same thing except it was me who was so incredibly sick. For three years (and surgery after surgery) I could do nothing except lay down. The doctors had no answers. Except to tell me after one failed surgery that they knew why I had miscarriages years before and I would never carry another child. I too turned to the Lord. In a prayer I was told that all would be well. Within a few months, I started feeling better. I cried the first time I was able to pack my son's lunch for school – to feel useful and like a mom again was amazing. The best part was finding out I was pregnant and then having a Thanksgiving baby. God is amazing. Thanks for reminding me of that this morning – I needed it.

      Amy

      Reply
    70. Tara says

      November 11, 2012 at 6:34 pm

      Ok…..wow! I had no idea. Thank you for sharing! God is so good and at times, high and low, we may not understand His timing…..He is always in control. I am so happy that you were able to keep your house and even more happy that your husband has been healed! What a testimony to share!! My husband and I have been though some really low lows too…..at times, I couldn't even see light at the end of the tunnel….but all by God's brace we have gotten through them all together and I feel have come out a much stronger couple, just like you and your hubs:) You have many blessings to be thankful for this year and I couldn't think of a more deserving person:) Hugs and love to you!!!

      4th Grade Frolics

      Reply
    71. luckeyfrog says

      November 11, 2012 at 8:05 pm

      So glad your husband is doing better. Sometimes it feels like faith isn't working, but when it finally does, it's amazing! I'm so happy that things have turned around for your family, but also that we've been some small part of helping, even if just as an outlet to get away from real life for a few minutes. Thanks so much for sharing your story, and I hope the blessings just keep on coming for your family!

      Jenny
      Luckeyfrog's Lilypad

      Reply
    72. susanlulu says

      November 12, 2012 at 12:25 am

      Thanks for sharing your story. I cried all the way through it – and then some!! I'm so glad it had a happy ending. I'm sure it has helped to read everyones'comments also. God Bless your family!
      [email protected]

      Reply
    73. Ashley Hughes says

      November 12, 2012 at 12:31 pm

      Love, love, love. Prayer is absolutely amazing. I can 't believe I'm just now getting to this on Google Reader! Thanks so much for giving us a peek into your life. So glad to call you a dear friend. You know we're always here for ya! 🙂

      Reply
    74. Love to Learn says

      November 14, 2012 at 12:42 am

      Thank you for sharing your story, I'm sure it took guts. I'm so glad to hear that things are turning around for your family!
      Love to Learn

      Reply
    75. Lori says

      November 15, 2012 at 12:22 am

      Wow! I'm sitting here in my classroom on a Wednesday evening, with tears running down my cheeks after reading this! I'm trying to get ahead on report cards, but instead I was drawn to your blog…and I'm so glad I came across this post! Thank you so much for sharing your "real life" story. I'm sure it wasn't easy to do. So often I read blogs, see the amazing things teachers are posting on TPT, and I feel so vastly inadequate! I'm trying to figure out how to teach first grade for the first time after staying at home with my own three kiddos for ten years. It has been a challenge! But there is nothing more heartwarming to me than others being authentic…so thank you. You are reaching so many in ways I'm sure you have never imagined you would! 🙂

      Reply
    76. Rachelle says

      November 18, 2012 at 9:46 pm

      Tears!!!!! Down!!!!! My!!!!!! Face!!!!!!

      What an inspiring story! Love this!

      Reply
    77. Anonymous says

      December 23, 2013 at 3:52 am

      You touch so many lives, especially with this story. It made me think and know what an incredible person you are. You are an inspiration to me and many others. Keep on being yourself because you are perfect in ways you can't even imagine. I don't think you know how much I look up to you as a person. You are the best!!

      Reply
    78. SP says

      December 23, 2013 at 4:02 am

      Reagan—
      First off, let me say that I am so sorry for everything you have been through. Great people like you and your family should not have to go through terrible things like this. Also, congratulations on your Teacher of the Year award. You completely deserve it from what I see on this blog. So anyway, it takes guts to get through things like this, and you are so strong. I am so relieved and overjoyed that you got to keep your home. You are raising a beautiful family. You are such an inspiration to me and to many. You are perfect in my eyes. Keep being yourself, because you are amazing.
      Best wishes—

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Welcome!

    Reagan Tunstall

    Reagan Tunstall incorporates 26 years in education into her teaching resources and idea-packed workshops. Reagan's passion for teaching, combined with her speaking experience, drives her to share the effectiveness of developing a community of mathematical thinkers. She has led districts in the implementation of guided math practices and runs Guided Math Conference, a national conference for teachers. Reagan authored the book, Guided Math AMPED, and over 1,400 teaching resources, including Guided Math, a K-5 teaching curriculum.

  • Follow

    • Bloglovin
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter
  • Subscribe via Email

    Get the latest blog posts delivered straight to your inbox!

  • Archives

    • ▼ 2023
      • ▼ January
        • Guided Math Schedules
    • ► 2022
      • ► December
        • Monthly Classroom Slides
        • January Learning and Resources
      • ► November
        • Number Talks for Math Warm-Ups pre-K-5
      • ► October
        • Five Ways to Differentiate During Math Stations
        • How to Foster Independence During Math Stations
        • Math Fact Fluency Practice
        • Pumpkin Themed Learning
      • ► September
        • Apple Ideas Across the Curriculum
        • Resources for Math Workstations K-5
      • ► August
        • Grab and Go Grammar for Second Grade
        • Daily Math Meeting
      • ► July
        • Math Workstations for Back to School
        • Word Chains for Reading Skills
        • Creating Classroom Culture for the New School Year
        • Writing Stationery All Through The Year
      • ► June
        • Guided Math Professional Development and Resources
      • ► May
        • Summer Themed Math, Literacy, and Science Series
        • Summer Themed Math Centers
        • Let's Have a Math and Literacy Picnic
        • Summer Fun with the Lit Kit
        • Summer Themed Math + Literacy
      • ► April
        • Summer Skill Review
        • Earth Day Activities
        • Free Mother's Day Body Scrub Recipe
        • Skills Check Math Assessments
      • ► March
        • Level Up Your Math Block
        • Amphibians and Frogs Science
      • ► February
        • Standard Practice Skill Pages
        • 100+ Math Read Aloud Books
        • Write and Wipe Stations
        • Valentine Math K-2 Freebie
        • Teach This for Specific Math Skills
      • ► January
        • Word Problems Strategies and Work Mats
        • Twos Day Activities
        • Fractions for Upper Grades
        • Let's Get Digital
    • ► 2021
      • ► December
        • Top Five Best-Selling Teaching Resources 2021
        • Guided Math Resource Compilation
        • Holidays Around the World Work
      • ► November
        • Gingerbread Themed Learning
        • Free Measurement Math Stations
        • Literature Circles
        • Teaching in November
      • ► October
        • Writing Lessons for the Year
        • Boo Day Halloween Activities
        • Free Math Workstations
        • Small Group Math Instruction
        • Class Meetings
        • Guided Reading Resources for Fall
      • ► September
        • Math Stations for Upper Grades
        • Fall Science Themes
        • Make it Another Way
        • Not-Your-Average Teacher Self-Care
        • S.O.S. Sub Days
      • ► August
        • Tub Time Task Cards
        • Math Journal or Numbers Notebook?
        • Me on the Map & Being a Good Citizen
        • Place Value Resource Round-Up
      • ► July
        • Building Number Sense
        • Editable Newsletters
        • Sight Word Sticks
        • Calendar Math Reference Wall
        • Fast Finisher Expert Tubs
      • ► June
        • How I Run Guided Reading Workstations
        • Create the "Write Climate" in your Classroom
        • What is a Sound Wall?
        • Partners, Group Pairings, and Planning for Cooperative Learning
        • Classroom Callbacks
        • Five Must-Have Teaching Resources
      • ► May
        • Math Maps Fluency Builders
        • Summer Science
        • Editable Candy Awards
        • Print and Practice Math and Literacy
        • End-of-Year Gift Tags
        • Classroom Campout
        • Math Intervention and Enrichment
      • ► April
        • 10 Math Review Resources
        • Math Menus
        • Guided Math Manipulatives
        • Digital Writing Warm-Ups
      • ► March
        • Revisit The Rise and Shine Binder
        • Five Ways to Manage Workstations
        • Rainbow Acrostic
        • Math the Room
        • Sample Guided Math
        • Spring Literacy and Math Workstations
      • ► February
        • March Materials
        • Addition and Subtraction to 20
        • Inventors and Inventions
        • Virtual Valentine's Day
        • U.S. Symbols Interactive Activities
      • ► January
        • Guided Math Digitally Speaking
        • ELA Stations by Standard
        • Digital 100th Day
        • Intervention for Number and Operations for Base Ten
        • February Science and Social Studies
        • February Favorites
        • Forms of Energy - Heat, Light, and Sound
        • Digital Literacy Warm-Ups
        • Guided Reading Timers
        • Digital Math Warm-Ups
        • January Themes
        • How to Launch Guided Math
        • Guided Math Timers
        • Intervention for Operations, Computations, and Algebraic Relationships
        • Intervention for Numeracy, Counting, and Cardinality
    • ► 2020
      • ► December
        • Start Fresh School Reset
      • ► November
        • Math Milestones
        • Flip Up Phonics
        • Digital Holidays Around the World
      • ► October
        • The Importance of Understanding Odd and Even in K-5
      • ► August
        • Socially Distance Small Groups and Centers
        • Digital Guided Math: Try It Free
      • ► July
        • Colorful Student Welcome Postcards
        • Distance Learning without Technology
        • Digital Guided Math
      • ► June
        • Guided Math VIRTUAL Professional Development
      • ► May
        • Math STACK Explained
        • Summer Math and Literacy Workstations
      • ► April
        • Third Grade Math Centers and Stations
        • Resources to Help Site-Wide Sale
        • Math Intervention Solution
      • ► March
        • Sending Homework Calendars to Students
        • Position the Learning for Impact
      • ► February
        • Writing Tool Kit Grades 3-5
        • Leap Year
    • ► 2019
      • ► December
        • Winter Math and Literacy
        • Writing Station Suitcase
      • ► November
        • Math Puzzles
        • The Science of Turkeys
        • Guided Math in Grades 3-5
      • ► October
        • All About Scientists
        • Meeting Standards Through Science and Social Studies Themes
      • ► August
        • Guided Math: Frequently Asked Questions
      • ► July
        • Getting Started with Math Journals
        • First Week Favorites for Back to School Time
      • ► June
        • The First Day of Guided Math
        • Guided Math and Workstation Resources
        • Guided Reading Resources the Smart Cart
      • ► May
        • 5 Fun Classroom Games to Review Skills
        • Solutions for the End of the Year
      • ► March
        • Literacy Word Wall and Warm-Ups
      • ► February
        • Lesson Plans for the Guided Math Structure
      • ► January
        • Teaching Students to Use Math Strategies
        • New Year, New Routines to Maximize Learning
    • ► 2018
      • ► December
        • Staying on Track with Teaching in December
      • ► October
        • Fall Math and Literacy Workstations
      • ► September
        • Writing Mini-Lessons for the Year
      • ► July
        • Setting Up Guided Math Kindergarten-5th Grade
      • ► June
        • Math Tools
      • ► May
        • Guided Math Resources
        • Free Printable Math Practice Pages
      • ► April
        • Interactive Butterfly Science
        • Write and Wipe Math Centers
      • ► March
        • Literacy Picnic
        • Interactive Plant Science
        • The Benefits of Numbers Notebook
        • Texas Symbols and Landmarks
      • ► February
        • Let's Celebrate Reading!
        • Let's Discuss Math Warm-Ups
        • February Resource Round Up
        • Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln
      • ► January
        • Guided Reading Teacher Binder
        • Martin Luther King Jr. Activities
        • Guided Math Webinar
        • Managing the Guided Math Materials Mayhem
    • ► 2017
      • ► December
        • The Great Homework Debate
        • Guided Math Workshops
        • Color-Coded Learning: Numbers Notebook
        • Gingerbread Science
      • ► November
        • 20 Ideas for Teaching Coins
        • Fact Fluency: Friend or Foe?
        • Scheduling Your Guided Math Block
      • ► October
        • A Teacher's Heart
        • Owls and Other Nocturnal Animals
        • Math Stations by Standard
      • ► September
        • 4th Grade Guided Math Geometry
        • Batty About Color Inspiration
        • Amazon Kindle Fire Kids Edition Giveaway!
        • Place Value Lessons and Workstations
        • Guided Math Resource Solutions
      • ► August
        • Astrobrights Brightest Teacher Classroom Makeover Reveal
        • 4th Grade Guided Math
      • ► July
        • The Workshop Classroom
        • The Lit Kit: A Comprehensive Resource
        • Math Fact Fluency
      • ► June
        • Graphs and Data Work Stations
        • Number Sense Workstations K-2 and 3rd
        • 3 Simple Ways to do a Lesson Reflection
      • ► May
        • 101 Guided Math Read Aloud Books
        • Flip It Math Games
      • ► April
        • Fact and Opinion Freebie with Astrobrights
        • Ocean Science
        • 20 Ideas for Teaching Measurement
        • All About Teaching Time
        • 20 Ways to Teach Graphing
      • ► March
        • Literacy for April
        • Activities to Teach Living Things
        • March Writing Mini-Lessons
        • Missouri Conference Announcement
        • Math Rotations a Favorite Time of Day
      • ► February
        • Literacy Activities for March
        • Math Games for Technology
        • Kicking off the Brightest Teacher Contest 2017
        • Keeping Up with Phonics and Word Families
        • February Writing Mini-Lessons
      • ► January
        • Dental Health Tooth Book
        • All Things Literacy in February
        • February Math Centers K,1, & 2
        • Meet Me At The Teacher Table!
        • January Resources
    • ► 2016
      • ► December
        • $500 Math Manipulatives Giveaway!
        • Using Math Journals K-3
        • Number Chats, Exit Tickets, and Math Supplements
        • Third Grade Guided Math
      • ► November
        • December Literacy All-In-One!
        • Holidays Around the World
        • Guided Math: The Three P's
        • Interactive Math Games
        • Free Veterans Day Math Activity
      • ► October
        • The November Lit Kit for First & Kinder!
        • November Writing Mini-Lessons
        • November Math Centers
        • Teaching in October
      • ► September
        • October Math Centers K, 1, and 2
        • The October Lit Kit
        • Science Journal
        • Colorize your Content with Astrobrights' Colorize your Classroom Contest
        • Math Journal Updates
      • ► August
        • Apple Science
        • Writing Mini-Lessons
      • ► July
        • Organizing Curriculum
        • The Lit Kit
        • Math Journal K, 1, and 2
      • ► June
        • Watermelon Science
        • Organizing Math Centers
      • ► May
        • The Rise and Shine Binder
        • Guided Math K, 1, and 2!
        • Math Centers For First Grade
        • Memory Keepsake Book Freebie
      • ► April
        • Second Grade Math Journal
        • Standards-Based Snake Safari
        • May Math
        • Multiplication and Division Situations
        • Insect Science Activities
        • Literacy and Math Picnic in the Classroom
        • The Writing Center
      • ► March
        • Earth Day
        • April Math
        • Resources to Teach Guided Math
        • Looking for a Leprechaun!
        • Magnets, Force, and Motion
        • Guided Math- Number Sense to 1200 (and beyond)
        • Animal Research Creating an eBook
      • ► February
        • Activities to Teach Living Things
        • March Math Centers and More!
        • 2016 Colorize Your Classroom Winner!
        • Teaching Word Families
        • A Bright Partnership
        • Math Lessons for Every Day
        • Sight Words and Fluency Phrases Booklets
      • ► January
        • Story Starters for The Writing Center
        • Team Building Warm-Ups
        • Read and Match Pocket Chart Cards
        • February Math
        • Guided Math Centers
        • Guided Math Grouping and Stations
        • Guided Math
        • Celebrating the 100th Day (or 120th)
        • Geometry: Shapes, Solids, and Fractions
    • ► 2015
      • ► December
        • Penguin Interactive Science
        • iPad Essentials: Researching Influential People
        • January Math Centers, Journals, and Printables
        • Weather Interactive Science Notebook
        • Math Journals For First Grade
        • Teaching Coins, Data, and Graphing!
        • Planning Writing Instruction
      • ► November
        • December Math Games, Journals, and Printables
        • How I Track Sight Words
        • Guided Math
        • America the Brave Election Day and Veterans Day
      • ► October
        • All the Phonics!
        • Fall Centers and Printables
        • Create Your Best Math Workshop
        • Franken Authors!
        • Number Sense Lesson Plans and Materials
        • A Nautical Themed Birthday at the Tunstall's
        • Fire Safety Ideas and Freebie
      • ► September
        • Spiders and Bats!
        • "Pump" up the Learning.
        • Spider Science Booklet
        • Lesson Planning Ideas: Teaching Phonics
        • Get All Caught Up With Colorize Your Classroom!
        • Guided Math and Place Value
      • ► August
        • Teacher Week '15 Meet the Teacher Monday
        • Interactive Writing Lesson {Freebie}
        • Writing Mini-Lessons
        • Colorize Your Classroom Challenge 4!
        • Astrobrights' Papers Colorize Your Classroom Contest Is Back!
        • Successful School Beginnings!
        • The Astrobrights Summit: Behind the Scenes!
        • Math Journals: Getting Started
        • There's a Paper Cutter on my Nightstand... #Backtoschool
      • ► July
        • Hallway Behavior Management Tip #25DaysofColor
        • Creating Classroom Community #25DaysofColor
        • Guided Math Whole Group to Small Group
        • Hands-On Science!
        • Resources for Teaching Writing
        • Morning Work Solutions!
        • The Guided Math Tour 2015
        • What Does it Take to be a Successful Beginning Reader?
        • Vegas Conference Sale!
        • Guided Math Galore
      • ► June
        • Morning Meeting: Let's Discuss
        • My Astrobrights Story: An Incredible Partnership
        • Math Tools for Reference!
        • Our Last Day in Pictures!
      • ► May
        • Young Author Portfolios and Celebration
        • Birthday Sale!
        • End of Year Freebies
        • 10 End of the Year Ideas
        • We Made it to May... Lesson Plans, Moms, and Twitchy Eyes
      • ► April
        • Pushing Through Spring Fever...
        • Guided Reading Phonics Posters
        • A Day in the Life...
        • Unshakeable: Enjoy teaching…no matter what
        • Organizing the Elementary Classroom!
      • ► March
        • Peek at My Week March 29th!
        • Active Learning Ideas!
        • Peek at My Week March 23
        • Howdy Partners! Come Take A Tour of our Texas Studies!
        • Fish in the Bucket and Other Things...
        • Guided Math-Reflecting on the Journey
        • Teacher Bag Lady and My Week...Wait...It's only Monday
      • ► February
        • Pot Of Gold Learning!
        • Phonics: What Why & How
        • Story Starters Galore
        • Teaching Time Freebies!
        • February in the Classroom
        • Write On!
        • Little Classroom Moments
      • ► January
        • Recap of the Texas First Grade Conference
        • Rough Patch!
        • iPad Essentials: Analyzing Weather!
        • Primary Geometry: Making the Grade with Shapes
        • Writing Mini-Lessons
        • A Peek at my Week {Gif Style}
        • January Jumpstart {A Day at School}
    • ► 2014
      • ► December
        • Guided Math Binder
        • Reindeer Games!
        • December Behavior Management
        • Five For Friday
        • About Math Journals
      • ► November
        • Heading Back To Work!
        • H is for...
        • My Handy Spelling Notebook!
        • Printable Literacy Practice
        • Honoring Veterans in Every Subject!
        • Five for Friday
        • Spelling and Phonics - Step by Step
        • Hello November!
      • ► October
        • It's a Fall Frenzy!
        • All About Reader's Workshop!
        • Fire Safety and Planning for Next Week
        • Franken Authors
        • Bat Science!
        • Beginning Place Value
      • ► September
        • Reading Strategies and my Week!
        • Our Daily Schedule in Pictures!
        • Prepping for Pumpkin Season
        • Apples and Fall Happenings
        • Apples! Hands-On Science
        • Classroom Clips and Quotes....Day 10
        • Interactive Notebooks and Young Learners
        • Practice Makes Perfect?
        • Kick Start Guided Reading!
      • ► August
        • Back To School: The First Two Days
        • Guided Math Rotations & Explanations!
        • School Tour Continued!
        • Teacher Week Day 2 Classroom Digs!
        • Teacher Week Day One
        • Engaging Writing Activities Volume 2
        • Daily Data Ideas!
        • Meet the Teacher Night Signs
        • Engaging Writing Activities
        • Launching Guided Math {A How To Guide}
        • Classroom Tour 2014-2015
      • ► July
        • iPad Essentials
        • Math Concepts Galore! Day 10
        • Day 8 ELA Units
        • Math Journals! Day 7
        • Math Centers on Day 6!
        • Christmas in July Day 5- How I Start the Day
        • Christmas in July Day 4- Spelling/Phonics
        • Christmas in July Day 2!
        • It's Christmas in July!
        • Label Obsessed!! {Free}
        • A Trip to IKEA
        • Organizing for Next Year
      • ► June
        • Word Work Storage and Yearly Plan
        • I'm Flipping over Flip Books!
        • All About Me Flip Book
        • The Math Journal Component
        • Effectively Teaching with iPads
        • Teacher Gift Tag
      • ► May
        • Making Writing Portfolios
        • Birthday Sale!
        • Free Candy Awards
        • Mother's Day and Gifts for Helpers
        • Teacher Appreciation Week!
        • What's Your Behavior Number? Freebie
        • Science Writing and Technology
      • ► April
        • Word Wall Centers For Any Word Wall!
        • May Math Journal
        • We've Got their Whole World In Our Hands
        • Camp Number Sense!
        • Keeping the Joy in Teaching
        • All in a Day's Work...
      • ► March
        • Neon Bloggers Take San Antonio!
        • The Big Phonics Bundle! {Purposeful Word Work}
        • My Coin Crew!
        • Spring Break Vacation and New Products Posted
        • Spring Forward with Motivation!
        • Spelling Ideas!
      • ► February
        • Workshop Talk!
        • All About Guided Math
        • Making Sight Words STICK!
        • All About Math Journaling
        • A Box of TREAT!
        • Mastering Measurement!
        • February Journal and My Throne of Lies...
      • ► January
        • Take off One Shoe...For Fractions!
        • Oh For The Love of Math!
        • Guided Reading and Guided Math Essentials
        • First Grade Texas Conference RECAP!
        • CENTER of Attention!
        • A Little Motivation Never Hurts...
    • ► 2013
      • ► December
        • Happy New Year 2014!
        • Winter Math Goodies!
        • Five for Friday
        • Parent Gifts and a Little Math Journal
        • Two Literacy Lifesavers!
        • Iced In at a National Conference in Dallas
        • Cyber Monday & Tuesday
      • ► November
        • Guided Reading Goods!
        • Prepping for December
        • December Math Journal
        • Nerdy Birdy! Turkey FACTS
        • Activities Like... {with a freebie too}
        • Scattered Recap...
        • Purposeful Word Work -- Blends!
        • Guided Math in First Grade
      • ► October
        • Trick or Read! Door Decorating, Freebies, and More!
        • Place Value Ideas and Rise and Shine Update!
        • The Time and Prep Factor
        • Critical Writing & Art with Columbus
        • Sounding Off....freebies and EMO.
        • Plenty Of Pumpkins and Other Fall Fun!
        • No Mayhem Monday!
      • ► September
        • This Week's Math: Resources and Freebies!
        • Five For Friday!
        • Guided Math Freebie and Sight Word Tracking
        • Making Ten Freebies and Our Self Portrait Gallery
        • Shaky Shaky Drop---Ten Frames
        • Highlights of our Learning Launch!
        • Math: How Do We Fit it All In?
        • Classroom Systems That Work!
        • O"FISH"ally in School....and a little bit of life...
      • ► August
        • Day 2 Breaking News...
        • Ready or Not...Meet the Teacher!
        • Back To School--It's NO JOKING MATTER!
        • Data and Learning Portfolio For Young Learners
        • Classroom Tour 2013-2014
        • Teacher Week! Let's Talk about Me!
        • Classroom Organization in Pictures
        • Must Haves for My New School Year
      • ► July
        • FUNdamentals and Friendships
        • Class Pet Writing Journal
        • Organization and Reteach!
        • Guided Reading-Transitional Readers Cheat Sheet!
        • How to Implement the Rise and Shine Binder {and a freebie}
        • Rise and Shine Binder
        • School Beginnings Update
        • Oh Good Graph!
      • ► June
        • A Teacher's Math Resource Units 1-6 Complete!
        • Meet Ups & Updates
        • A Teacher's Math Resource!
        • Big News!
        • Road Trippin' Without Falling Down
        • Chalky Classroom Garden Decor
        • A New Adventure in Professional Development!
        • Adding Tape Math
        • The Last Day...
      • ► May
        • Mark and Sally Learn To Tally!
        • The Last Week Of School Survival
        • Sliding Out of Town and Into a New Decade
        • Win a CUTE T-Shirt!!!
        • Five for Friday!
        • Classroom Details! {the nitty gritty}
        • Mother's Day
        • Math Center Ideas and a Sale
        • I Have News!
        • Five for Friday! Holla!!!
      • ► April
        • It's Official. I am a hoarder. Oh, and a Farm Freebie.
        • Book Reviews and SSSSSScenters
        • Fighting Bone Cancer
        • Hap Palmer CD Winner!
        • Math and Technology
        • Snake Safari!
        • Blog Stalker Bffs and Fraction Freebies
        • Catching up. A Freebie. Some Video.
        • Fly on the Wall Linky
        • Symmetrical Salad, 2-D Desserts, and My Fight with Siri
        • Math is a Picnic...in the Classroom!
        • Feelings and Rocks
        • Literacy Picnic In the Classroom!
      • ► March
        • Spring Daily Math and Language
        • Five For Friday
        • How Do You Spell......?????
        • Crunchin' Numbers! {Freebie}
        • My Year In Bulletin Boards! {Teacher Eye Candy}
        • St. Patrick's Day Sale!
        • My Spring Fling with Captain Obvious!
        • Riveting Reading Instruction
        • Five for Friday
        • Psst! Hey You!! Want a Freebie?
        • Unicorns...What Else?
        • Testing My Limits and Linky Visual Plans
      • ► February
        • Full Speed Ahead!
        • Looking Back and Heading Forward
        • Hall Pass Linky!
        • President's Day Visual Plans, Freebies, & Finds!
        • Sunday Funday!
        • Five For Friday!
        • All You Need Is LOVE!!!
        • Valentine's Day Week!
        • *Not Teaching Related! Boo-RAH!!!
        • February Math Centers!
        • Techy Teacher Tuesday! Free App and Literacy Activity!
        • Prepping Penguins!
        • Visual Plans and I Dyed My Hair!
      • ► January
        • Swimming With Sharks...and a little Claustrophobia!
        • Visual Plans and 100th Day Freebie
        • Sight Words and Thinking Maps!
        • Balance-Updates-and Lesson Plans
        • Dr. MLK Jr. Day!
        • Puppy Love Literacy!
        • Pinterest killed my Mojo
        • Visual Plans and Highlights
        • Home Office Makeover Reveal
        • Mega-Mode in January!
        • Visual Plans And New Year's Freebie
        • Classroom Pictures-Ready for January!
        • Mailbox Station
    • ► 2012
      • ► December
        • Look Away- I'm Hideous!
        • Jam Packed January and an Office Make-Over!
        • Texas Blogger Meet Up!
        • Sound Science
        • Parent Gift Factory...
        • Visual Plans For a Busy Week
        • Silence for Sandy Hook
        • Just 24 Hours Ago...
        • Making Reindeer Food Meet the Standards!
        • I met Kim Adsit!!!
        • Plans, Crafts, Parent Gifts, and Let's Meet!
        • Tech the Halls!
        • Monday Made It Freebies!
        • Visual Lesson Plans For Gingerbread Week
        • It's Gingerbread Week!
      • ► November
        • Techy Santa!
        • Visual Plans and Estimate to Win Today!
        • Run Turkey Run!
        • Attack Attack! Calling for Reinforcements!
        • Let's Get Real Personal Post.
        • Products and My Daily Schedule
        • Visual Plans...and life!
        • Veterans Day Unit UPDATE!
        • We've all Gone MAD!
      • ► October
        • Spooky Fact Families Freebie
        • Pumpkins and Common Core... What More?
        • Pumpkin Week & Visual Plans
        • Wrapping Up the Week
        • Our Bat Book Study
        • Top Ten Blogging Side Effects...
        • Bats, Stellaluna, and Visual Plans!
        • Spider Art and Writing
        • Don't Call the Exterminator!
        • Keeping Writer's Workshop Alive!
        • Spider Week and Visual Plans
        • Freebies and Pumpkin Estimation Winner
      • ► September
        • Week 6 Plans and Writing Lesson
        • What's Working?
        • How I Run my Math Block
        • October Math Centers
        • Teaching Writing Ideas and Plans
        • Fall Sale and a Funny!
        • Word Work, Apples, and Caterpillars...
        • Visual Lesson Plans with Links!
        • Skip Counting Freebie and My Week in Pictures
        • Whatever Gets You Out of Bed in the Morning...
        • Pests or Pals?
        • Top Ten, Freebies, and Plans
      • ► August
        • First Week's Fun
        • Surviving the First Day!
        • Reading Lesson Anchor Charts
        • Where I Teach Wednesday
        • Are You Ready to Expo?
        • My Visual Lesson Plans!!
        • Mouse Pad Makeover
        • Sneak a Peek at My Purchases
        • Odds and Ends
        • Anchor Charts For You
        • On Your Mark,Get Set,GO!
        • Special Delivery!
        • New Awards For Students
        • Classroom Tour 2012-2013
        • Titles, Questions, and Tutorials
        • Classroom Progress 2012
      • ► July
        • Heading in to School Today!
        • Feelin' Texan
        • Fall Art and Writing Projects
        • Tell Me More!
        • Pixy Stick Birthday Makeover
        • 10 Lessons for Teaching Reading
        • Pinterest Inspired Crafts
        • Back To School Prep!
        • Teach Like A Theme Park?
        • Surprise Vacation!
        • Old School New School
        • Back To School 10 Math Centers {&Freebie}
        • Nerd Alert!
        • Currently Burn Ban!
        • Motivating Students with Props from the Dollar Store!
      • ► June
        • WHAT DID SHE SAY?!
        • Check Check...Is This Thing On?
        • Dancing and Math
        • I Messed Up!
        • Summer Laziness????
        • A Year Of Daily Math!
        • Best Summer Ever!
        • Flipping Out for Freebies!
        • Daily Math Requests
        • Texas Sized FUN at the blog meet!
        • Currently Redecorating!
      • ► May
        • Our Last Day in Pictures
        • End of Year Freebies
        • Surviving One More Week-IDEAS!
        • Crafts, Chefs, and Spaghetti!
        • Oh Momma--It's Coming!
        • Read to Puppy!
        • Currently Moooo-ing!
        • Don't Judge and Freebie!
      • ► April
        • Academic Awards for Elementary Students
        • Farm Fun and Freebie
        • Candy Awards
        • Oh Momma!
        • Are My Kids Still Chasing Me?
        • Bulletin Boards & BFFs
        • Dear Teacher Diary...
        • Four Friday Freebies!
        • Skyping Good Time!
        • We Ate a Frog Today!
        • Snack Sized Learning and a Letter Writing Freebie!
        • Today Rocked!!!
        • Spring Daily Language Review and A Couple Pictures
        • The Bunny
        • Math Math Math!
        • Shhhh Don't Tell My Diet.
        • Spring Daily Math
      • ► March
        • This Week's Pictures
        • Lunch Linky and The Daily Five Update
        • Science Freebies
        • Dumpsville- Population Zero!
        • Sylvester and the Magic Pebble
        • First Grade Fashions and Academics Too!
        • The Real Rocks of Limestone County
        • Gone Buggy Unit for Free
        • Planning With Ryan
        • Bloggers GONE WILD--Spring Break Meet Up!
        • Morning Work Freebie and a Linky Party!
        • Elmer and A Sale!
        • Teaching Writing and Life Lessons
        • I Think I Can! I Think I Can!
        • Reference Wall Freebies
        • No More Word Verification!
        • Lenny the Leprechaun
        • We Looked for A Leprechaun!
      • ► February
        • Write on the Money?
        • Feels Like a Monday!---and a freebie!
        • Giant TPT LINKY PARTY!
        • Looking For A Leprechaun
        • Today I Celebrate Being in Remission!!!
        • Feeling Super Presidential!
        • I think I am global.
        • Do You Feel Lucky?
        • Rowing my Boat. Keeping Afloat.
        • Happy Valentine's Day! Freebie
        • March Math Centers!
        • Shock and Awe
        • Penguins and Polka Dots
        • Giraffes in Antarctica!
        • Currently Contemplating...
        • My February Lesson Plans and Winners!
        • I hope this is Freeze Tag.
        • Build A Graph Freebie and Celebrating The Non-Fiction Superbowl!
      • ► January
        • Grab a snack it's a long post!
        • Daily Language Work
        • Goats, Trolls, and a FREEBIE!
        • Do You Speak Blog?
        • Mid-Week Pick Me Up
        • Dream Squashing In Full Effect!
        • This Little Piggy
        • San Antonio Texas Blogger Meet Up!
        • Daily Warm Ups for Math and Language!
        • Math Centers!
        • I'm Baaaaack...{from the salon}
        • Catching Up!
        • Currently, MLK, and Other Assorted Topics (HAIR)
        • Writing and Centers
        • My Friday Fix!!
        • What to Do with Ten Extra Minutes...and more
        • Geometric Quilting Update
        • Highlights of the Last 2 Days!
        • 2012 Morning Work Freebie and Another Top Ten!
    • ► 2011
      • ► December
        • New Year's Sale!
        • Build a Pizza Math Center!
        • Monster Game Freebies!
        • Coziness, Confessions, and Lesson Plans!
        • 11 in 11 Linky FUN
        • I promise I know how to count...really...Free Reading Logs Updated
        • Bulletin Boards for Winter!
        • Merry Christmas!
        • Holiday Identity Crisis.
        • How Do Penguins Drink Their Soda?
        • The Emperor's Egg
        • My Pastor Ate Baby Jesus
        • Currently... Laughing
        • Top Ten Reasons I know Christmas is Near...
        • Sock Snowman Gift and Merry Christmas Splat the Cat!
        • All Aboard The Polar Express
        • Arrrrg!
        • Freebie, Giveaway, and a Recipe!
        • Cookies and Pepcid for Dinner
        • No More Reindeer Games!
      • ► November
        • Dream Squasher
        • In Charge of Chocolate and Cuteness
        • Black Friday through Cyber Monday Sale!
        • Rudolph the Chip-Nosed Reindeer & a Freebie
        • Christmas Art Projects!
        • Thankfully Giving!
        • Writer's Workshop Pet Edition
        • Not a DULL moment!
        • Daily Calendar Freebie and a mess of other ideas
        • Veteran's Day is Next Week!
      • ► October
        • November Unit Update!
        • 7 Things you'll wish you could forget
        • Bats, Phonics, and My Friday Fix!
        • Pumpkin Glyph Bulletin Board Freebie
        • Math Quilts
        • Halloween Dress Up Linky!!
        • Harry the Dirty Dog
        • Stellaluna Book Study!
        • Jack O Faces FREEBIE
        • Framed!!
        • Read on Little Dudes....Read on...
      • ► September
        • Oh Good Graph!
        • I Have Officially Spread Myself Too Thin
        • Fun with Fiction
        • Indoor Recess? Problem SOLVED!!
        • Totally Bugged.
        • You are the Wind Beneath My Wings...
        • Math Tubs
        • Writer's Workshop
      • ► August
        • Number Bracelets!
        • Breakfast in my Classroom {horrors}
        • Meet The Teacher Night
        • Things I have been working on...
        • Gone Buggy!
        • Top Ten Reasons You Know it is BACK TO SCHOOL time!
        • Classroom Pictures Part 2. D-O-N-E!!!
        • Classroom Tour 2011-2012 Part One
      • ► July
        • Book Barn!
        • Shape Up!
        • Teacher Feature
        • Writer's Workshop
        • Classroom Labels
        • I am a R-O-B-O-T
        • Vowels Visual
        • Monster Math Tubs
        • Can O' Worms
        • Earbud Storage
        • Discovery Bottles
        • WORD DOCTOR
      • ► June
        • Teacher Tipster...My NEW BFF!
        • Back to School....and writing...
        • Lovely Labels!
        • Classroom Organization
        • Minute to Win It
        • Teacher Song!
        • June Joy!
    • ► 2010
      • ► August
        • Classroom Details
        • Back To School 2010-2011
        • Classroom 2010- 2011
  • Guided Math Amped
  • Instagram

    GIVEAWAY! 🎉 To celebrate the launch of our NE GIVEAWAY! 🎉 To celebrate the launch of our NEW @hand2mindinc Math Tools Resource Kits developed by us @reagtunstall and @thekristinagrant, we’re teaming up to give one lucky teacher the grade level kit of their choice! Entering is easy:

 
1. Follow @reagtunstall, @thekristinagrant and @hand2mindinc
2. Like this post ❤️  
3. Tag your teacher friends for extra entries. Each tag in a separate comment counts as an additional chance, plus they could win too! 🏷️   
4. Save this post and check back next Thursday to see if you’re a winner! 💾  
 
Math Tools Resource Kits are perfect for easily enhancing small-groups and centers, and each kit is grade-level aligned for K-1, 2-3, and 4-5 students. These kits are comprehensive, fully prepped, and empower students to take ownership of their learning! bit.ly/mathtoolsresourcekit
 
Open to US residents only until Thursday, February 2nd, 2023, at 11:59 pm CST. The winner will be chosen at random and announced in the comments on Friday, February 3rd, 2023. Per Instagram rules, this promotion is in no way sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram. By entering, entrants confirm that they are 18+ years of age, release Instagram of responsibility, and agree to Facebook’s terms of use. 
 
⚠️ Reminder! This is our only account on Instagram. All other accounts pretending to be us are fake and should be reported and blocked immediately. We will never ask for your credit card information and will only contact you from this account. ⚠️
    Guided Math Conference Three Texas events and more Guided Math Conference
Three Texas events and more to come! 
https://bit.ly/GuidedMathConference

#guidedmathconference #guidedmath #texasteacher #mathstations #teacher #teach #teachersofinstagram #iteach
    Magnet Science has been completely updated. Create Magnet Science has been completely updated.
Create a bar magnet booklet packed with learning and fun.
 http://bit.ly/3CYbKME
#magnetscience #forceandmotion #science #teacher #teach #sciencestations #ťeachersofinstagram
    Our San Antonio Guided Math Conference was a celeb Our San Antonio Guided Math Conference was a celebration of math instruction!  We could not have asked for a better day with the teachers and administrators of central Texas. Huge thank you to  Hand2mind, ESGI, and Bless Your Heart.  We couldn't have done it without our tireless volunteers, Emily, Jake, and Morgan.  We love you! Our San Marcos event is Monday, and we will do it all over again!
    Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. writing and display fro Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. writing and display from January writing lessons. 
Influential People and Me lesson. 

https://bit.ly/3BNPXXx

#januarywriting #teacher #teachersofinstagram #mlkjr #januarylessons #iteach #iteachtoo
    Word Family and Fluency Phrase Booklets *short vow Word Family and Fluency Phrase Booklets
*short vowels
*long vowels
*digraphs
*blends
*r-controlled vowels
*vowel teams

Provide targeted word family and fluency phrase practice with these booklets!
•Each booklet contains a target spelling pattern and different word lists and fluency phrases for that spelling pattern.
•Meets the needs of your varied levels of readers.
•Easy to put together, easy to track
•Students work through the booklets at their own pace. 
•Perfect for reading homework, 
•RTI 
•small group practice
The cover of each book has a glance at the level of mastery with motivating incentives for students.

https://bit.ly/3WRIIpM

#wordfamilies #phonics #fluencyphrases #iteach #teacher #teachersofinstagram #iteachk #iteach1st #iteach2nd #reading #guidedreading #readingstations #literacy #ela
  • Like Us On Facebook

    Facebook Pagelike Widget
  • Copyright © 2023 · Tunstall’s Teaching Tidbits · All Rights Reserved · Site by Mila Design Co.