Best of 2012

Bunting, Books and Bainbridge is having an end of the year linky party to reflect on 2012.

Here I go!

My best blogging moment: That I actually started this blog. I started in July after stalking reading, so many blogs for about six months. I was inspired by them, that I just knew I wanted to share. I knew I'd find a lot of elementary blogs, but honestly, it has been refreshing to read from other middle school people as well. I follow all levels of blogs, I certainly do not discriminate. It has helped my teaching though to have teachers "like me" to get ideas from to use in my classroom instruction.

Hodges Herald was created so I could speak my mind about teaching. Thanks to those who read it, even bits of it.

My favorite freebie: I don't have my own TpT store (maybe that will be new in 2013). So, for now, all my collaborations are FREE. But, I have had a few that I think are better than others. My very first Friday Freebie was my reward coupons and they are such a hit with students! Click here for the free coupons.

My most viewed post: Fractions, Decimals and Percents game was a huge hit with readers. Like my personal  inspirations from Pinterest (of course), I think this game inspired people to create a game. As a matter of fact, a reader did create one, very similarly and I used that one in my classroom as well. Both games were very successful with the kids. When pieces have gotten lost, I haven't gotten upset because those lids are so easily accessible. Click on the picture for the freebie.

 

My favorite linky parties: I love linky parties, sometimes they are overwhelming, but I do participate a lot. Tara over at 4th Grade Frolics truly inspired a lot of us to not just "pin" great ideas, but actually make things with her Made it Mondays. And TBA, Friday Freebies completely rock because I love FREE!

     

Most inspiring blogs:

I Speak Math has been great to keep me blogging with her Middle School Sunday Fundays  and For the Love of Teaching Math inspires to me do what I know kids love, games, games, games! She is sooooo awesome and has the best products EVER! I truly could list a bunch more, but I have to keep the list small.

Finally, the best thing about blogging for me has been enjoying my job again. I had a really rough transition into middle school teaching after 17 years in elementary. I didn't think I'd stay with this age group, but this year has been completely different and I truly am enjoying teaching again.

I'm really looking forward to continuing my blog in 2013 and can't wait to see what is in store for the upcoming year!