tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15212520448563882052023-06-15T10:19:43.185-05:00Thrifty Texas TeacherRachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.comBlogger157125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-945089823951275932011-07-27T20:41:00.001-05:002011-07-27T20:51:04.530-05:00Book Review: Readicide by Kelly Gallagher<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ0EVIEARi0/TjDAYXkBBvI/AAAAAAAACJo/NDOSf17KarQ/s1600/readicide" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZ0EVIEARi0/TjDAYXkBBvI/AAAAAAAACJo/NDOSf17KarQ/s1600/readicide" /></a></div> <b>Readicide: noun, th systematic killing of the love of reading, often exacerbated by the inane, mind-numbing practices found in schools (Gallagher, 2006)</b>.</div><br />
I just finished reading <u>Readicide</u> by Kelly Gallagher, and it rocked my world! It is up there with <u>Teach Like Your Hair's On Fire</u> by Rafe Esquith and <u>The Book Whisperer </u>by Donalyn Miller, two of my favorite "teaching books". Gallagher eloquently and convincingly argues that all of the focus on testing is killing off our readers' motivation to read. He cites numerous research studies and other renowned educators that back up his assertion. Although he is a self-proclaimed pot-stirrer, he's not willing to sit back and watch our nation's education system go down in flames. He gives applicable and realistic ways for teachers to help fix the Readicide epidemic. Although it may not sound like an easy read, it really was a page-turner that I finished in a few days. Reading this book has inspired me to change some of the practices in my classroom and to feel more confident about some of the practices I have always believed to be fruitful.<br />
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I've been meaning to read the book for while, after seeing him two years ago at a conference. I was motivated o pick up the book again because Gallagher is coming to the Galleria tomorrow to speak to teachers on the subject of writing. I'm looking forward to hearing him, and I am thankful for his inspiring book! If you haven't read<u> Readicide,</u> you need to!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>"Let's not forget in the shadow of all this testing that our primary goal is to help our students become lifelong readers."</b>--Kelly Gallagher <iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thriftytexasteacher&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=1571107800&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-34900858904159346272011-07-26T18:01:00.000-05:002011-07-26T18:01:35.002-05:00I'm back! School Supply Deals 7/24-7/30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-655sBDPVSGo/Ti9Fkaow28I/AAAAAAAACJk/aZuauMondwo/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-655sBDPVSGo/Ti9Fkaow28I/AAAAAAAACJk/aZuauMondwo/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Sorry I have been MIA for awhile. I was experiencing a bit of burn-out and have been busy this summer. I also have been spending my computer time on a little website called Pinterest. If you haven't heard of it, you should check it out. You can find my Pinterest boards <a href="http://pinterest.com/rmarie86/">here</a>. I may not be as frequent with my posting as before. I still feel strongly about teachers saving as much as they can on their classroom materials, and I love sharing resources that I find so I will try my best! :)<br />
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Frugal Living and Having Fun has some great match-ups for school supplies at Staples <a href="http://frugallivingandhavingfun.com/2011/07/staples-724-back-to-school-sale/">here</a>. <br />
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Kroger School Supply Deals 7/24-7/30 from <a href="http://www.thethriftymama.com/2011/07/kroger-deals.html">The Thrifty Mama</a><br />
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<ul><li>A&W Stretchable Book Covers $1</li>
<li>Crayola Crayons, 24 ct (Limit 10) $0.50</li>
<li>Oxford Twin Pocket Folder $0.15</li>
<li>Top Flight Wirebound Notebook $0.15</li>
<li>Top Flight Wireless Notebook $1</li>
</ul>Hope you're having a great week! Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-46101495655869176152011-03-29T20:54:00.002-05:002011-03-29T21:05:06.943-05:00Motivational TAKS video<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/t56Upd5Ct2s?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
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I wanted to find something to motivate my kiddos for the TAKS test next week. After searching for awhile, I found this video on YouTube by some high schoolers in Crosby, TX. It's called "Imma Pass TAKS", and it is to the tune of "Imma Be" by the Black Eyed Peas. Hats off to them for making an awesome and fun video that my 5th graders LOVE! Thought you might like to check it out!<br />
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Also, my district doesn't allow YouTube on school computers so I had to follow <a href="http://www.itworld.com/personal-tech/62762/how-download-and-burn-youtube-video-dvd">these directions</a> by ITWorld on how to convert the YouTube file to one compatible with iTunes. Then I burned it onto a DVD, and played it at school! I was pumped! A collegue and I typed out the lyrics today (after watching it about 20 times). Email me, if you would like me to send you a copy (thriftytexasteacher@gmail.com).<br />
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Did you find this post helpful? Join my Facebook fan page!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-79995629540057197302011-03-08T19:41:00.000-06:002011-03-08T19:41:21.229-06:00100 paper clips for 17 cents from Costco+free shipping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-a8XuuBROYWY/TXbZ_3HMcrI/AAAAAAAACJg/uPGL1LMA1mg/s1600/116474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-a8XuuBROYWY/TXbZ_3HMcrI/AAAAAAAACJg/uPGL1LMA1mg/s1600/116474.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Costco has a great deal on paper clips right now--100 for 17 cents a box. You have to buy a minimum of 5 boxes, but this is still a great deal. Plus, you get free shipping!! I use tons of paper clips, so I got a few. Check them out <a href="http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11151462&search=paper+clips&Mo=6&cm_re=1_en-_-Top_Left_Nav-_-Top_search&lang=en-US&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Sp=S&N=5000043&whse=BC&Dx=mode+matchallpartial&Ntk=Text_Search&Dr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ne=4000000&D=paper+clips&Ntt=paper+clips&No=0&Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&Nty=1&topnav=BC&s=1">here</a>. Non-members may have to pay a small fee, so check before buying. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. Sorry I've been M.I.A. for awhile. We are getting ready for TAKS at school, plus I've been traveling a lot on weekends. I'm hoping to get back in the groove over spring break!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-7596996612287442282011-01-17T18:00:00.001-06:002011-01-17T18:00:01.899-06:00Great Coupons from Avery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTTHSNpWQYI/AAAAAAAACJY/PTU03T7Q7OE/s1600/72782-16362-p02p.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTTHSNpWQYI/AAAAAAAACJY/PTU03T7Q7OE/s1600/72782-16362-p02p.jpeg" /></a></div>Avery is offering some awesome coupons (up to $5 off) right now on tags, labels, mailing seals and greeting cards. These are great for organizing in your office or classroom. They also offer a free download of <a href="http://www.avery.com/avery/en_US/Templates-%26-Software/Software/Avery-Wizard-for-Microsoft-Office.htm">Avery Wizard for Microsoft Word</a>, which provides a template for each type of label, so you can print typed labels easily. I used Avery labels and their templates to categorize my classroom library!<br />
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Find this post helpful? Subscribe to my feed or become a fan on Facebook!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-4427299974861577292011-01-17T16:19:00.000-06:002011-01-17T16:19:50.612-06:00Kids' Science Challenge Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTTAUATD0rI/AAAAAAAACJU/-TVpeuuRbSo/s1600/science_activity_kit.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTTAUATD0rI/AAAAAAAACJU/-TVpeuuRbSo/s1600/science_activity_kit.gif" /></a></div><iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thriftytexasteacher&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=B000ELCJG8&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe>Pulse of the Planet has created a contest where kids (grades 3-6) can submit experiments to scientists and engineers. The deadline to enter is Feb. 28, 2011. The first 1,000 students to enter will get a science kit. Prizes will be awarded the student or student group who wins. Some <a href="http://www.kidsciencechallenge.com/html/prizes.php">prizes</a> include a trip to Northern California and a variety of science kits. Teachers can benefit too. The teacher who submits the most entries will get a prize to use in the classroom. To get more details about the contest go <a href="http://www.kidsciencechallenge.com/#/home">here</a>.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-88304349505274230432011-01-17T16:03:00.000-06:002011-01-17T16:03:57.602-06:00Barnes and Noble Educator Appreication Days!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTS8pWuKq0I/AAAAAAAACJQ/kk8bL6bzehI/s1600/105808_bn_educator_784x753_r3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTS8pWuKq0I/AAAAAAAACJQ/kk8bL6bzehI/s320/105808_bn_educator_784x753_r3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Right now, through January 23rd, Barnes and Noble is offering 25% off classroom and personal purchases. Plus, 10% off music and movies. This sale is valid in-stores and online. You must present your B&N Educator Discount Card, which you can only sign up for in the store. When signing up, you must bring your teacher ID.<br />
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To find out about other teacher discounts go <a href="http://thriftytexasteacher.blogspot.com/2010/08/updated-teacher-discount-pile-up.html">here </a>to a previous post. <br />
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Find this post useful? Become a fan on Facebook or subscribe to my feed!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-32805994857485864282011-01-16T17:14:00.000-06:002011-01-16T17:14:56.133-06:00Discounted Listening Library Audiobooks by Random House @ HauteLook<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTN7JZ2YEyI/AAAAAAAACJM/MFZHTmj_KDw/s1600/451201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTN7JZ2YEyI/AAAAAAAACJM/MFZHTmj_KDw/s320/451201.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://www.hautelook.com/invite/RPhillips809">HauteLook</a> is offering the Listening Library by Random House for discounted prices right now! They have tons of titles such as Winnie The Pooh, Cat in the Hat, Because of Winn Dixie, and Harry Potter! <a href="http://www.hautelook.com/product/1440813">Charlotte's Web</a> is $16.99 right now (orig. $27). It includes 3 unabridged compact discs, and it's read by E.B. White himself! When you get to the site, you can listen to an excerpt of each book before buying it. HauteLook is a really cool site! It's a daily deal site that offers some unique items. Right now they also have Shutterfly canvas wall art and photo books <a href="http://www.hautelook.com/event/4203">on sale</a>! Sign up for HauteLook <a href="http://www.hautelook.com/invite/RPhillips809">here</a> and start getting their daily deals!<br />
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**Please support this site by using the links provided! Thank you!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-43396132848074412962011-01-16T15:12:00.000-06:002011-01-16T15:12:41.780-06:00Free Catalog, Planner, and Folder from SchoolMate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTNe_N62hAI/AAAAAAAACJA/MjP4EuUVLrY/s1600/custCovers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTNe_N62hAI/AAAAAAAACJA/MjP4EuUVLrY/s1600/custCovers.jpg" /></a></div>SchoolMate is offering free samples of various planners, agendas, and folders for educators. Fill out the request form <a href="http://www.schoolmate.com/request_info/">here</a>. <br />
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Thanks, <a href="http://sweetiesfreebies.com/free-planner-for-teachers-and-educators">Sweeties Freebies</a>!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-42374102041854684212011-01-16T12:00:00.002-06:002011-01-16T12:00:02.620-06:00No More Rack $10 CreditNo More Rack is a daily deal website offering 8 deals on luxury items at noon everyday. When you sign up, you can get a $10 credit towards a purchase of $20. The shipping cost is $2 per item. I've seen some really good deals on Coach purses, Bobby Brown make-up, Rock and Republic jeans and more.<br />
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Here's how to get the credit:<br />
1. Sign up for No More Rack <a href="http://www.nomorerack.com/?cr=276924">here</a>. <br />
2. Put $20 worth of items in your shopping cart.<br />
3. Click on use $10 credit.<br />
4. Check out<br />
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If everything is sold out (things tend to go fast!), wait for your No More Rack email the next day at noon and see what's new! <br />
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**Please support this site by using the links provided! Thank you!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-12092221295597738462011-01-15T15:29:00.001-06:002011-01-15T15:33:52.910-06:0024 Free Photo Cards from SeeHere.com+ $2.29 shipping cost<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTIRqfTrVDI/AAAAAAAACI8/L8BcKJyvzCo/s1600/seehere-holiday-cards.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TTIRqfTrVDI/AAAAAAAACI8/L8BcKJyvzCo/s1600/seehere-holiday-cards.bmp" /></a></div><a href="https://www.seehere.com/cmAccountSignup.do">Seehere.com </a>is Fuji Film's photo printing and photo product website. I used it to buy my New Year's photo cards. I thought the cards were great and very comparable to Snapfish or Kodak.When you order 24 cards, you only have to pay $2.49 for shipping when you use the code 25cards. <br />
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Here's how:<br />
1. Sign up for a free account at <a href="http://seehere.com/">Seehere.com</a><br />
2. Create a single-sided 4x8 card and save it.<br />
3. Add 24 cards to your checkout cart. (if you order 25, the shipping price goes up)<br />
4. Use the promo code 25cards to get your free cards and cheap shipping!<br />
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These would be really cute to use for Valentines' or Easter cards! Also, if you purchase anything else, you can get 12% back from <a href="http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=i0gwaaxq5ACFseE0AXba4w%3D%3D">Ebates</a>!<br />
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Offer expires 3/31/11 <br />
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Thanks, <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2011/01/seehere-24-photo-cards-for-2-49-shipped-available-again.html">Money Saving Mom</a>!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-82440331810429470072011-01-15T11:54:00.001-06:002011-01-15T11:56:17.367-06:00Math Frustration<iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Bfq5kju627c?fs=1" frameborder="0" height="344" width="425"></iframe><br />
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Our principal showed us this during staff development yesterday. I thought it was hilarious. I'm sure my math teachers, boyfriend (now my husband), and my parents felt like this while teaching me math all throughout school. Most nights would end in tears. Math teachers, don't give up on your kiddos!!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-55430394010799830492011-01-11T21:30:00.003-06:002011-01-15T11:57:19.173-06:00Free shipping with no min. purchase at Paula's Choice!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TS0flzUFwsI/AAAAAAAACI4/FOJ6draUQNE/s1600/SAMP-group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TS0flzUFwsI/AAAAAAAACI4/FOJ6draUQNE/s400/SAMP-group.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><a href="https://www.paulaschoice.com/">Paula's Choice</a>, which was created by Cosmetics Cops is offering free shipping with no minimum purchase. Usually, it takes an order of $75 to get free shipping at Paula's Choice. They have <a href="https://www.paulaschoice.com/category/trial-travel-sizes">samples/travel packets</a> that start at 50 cents! These could be used in your carry-on case or to test out Paula's Choice products. Use the promo code GPFJF82 to get free shipping when you get to the check out cart! I'm not sure how long this promo code will last so hurry!<br />
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**Expired <br />
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Enjoy this post? Subscribe to my feed or become a fan on Facebook!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-58555411480762476042011-01-10T08:00:00.008-06:002011-01-10T08:00:07.257-06:00Product Review: Purex Complete Crystals Softener<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSp6rGRL3GI/AAAAAAAACIs/tzWOckbXGBI/s1600/purex-crystals-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSp6rGRL3GI/AAAAAAAACIs/tzWOckbXGBI/s1600/purex-crystals-logo.jpg" /></a></div>I'm so excited to say that I am officially a Purex Insider! The first review I've been asked to do is on Purex Complete Crystals Softener. It was just released on December 28th, so this is a brand new product! I'm going to be honest--I've never used fabric softener in the washing machine before. I've always used dryer sheets. Purex Complete Crystals have changed my little washing world though. You put them in the wash and all of your softening needs are met in one easy step! I was truly amazed at how it worked on my towels. Previously, even after drying my towels with a dryer sheet and dryer balls, they still seemed limp. The Purex Complete Crystals caused the towels to be fluffier and softer! Perfect! I'm excited to see how it works on my other clothes (in the wash right now with the Purex Complete Crystals).<br />
<span class="fw_sanitized"><br />
HERE IS SOME OF THE INFORMATION I'VE RECEIVED FROM PUREX:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSp9r0689SI/AAAAAAAACI0/w28lqZbgSnM/s1600/start-infuse-last.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSp9r0689SI/AAAAAAAACI0/w28lqZbgSnM/s400/start-infuse-last.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">WHAT IS IT??</span><br />
A UNIQUE CRYSTAL FORM, 92% NATURAL FABRIC SOFTENER<br />
A purer way to get laundry that smells clean and fresh for weeks. 92% natural, this product’s unique crystal form works differently than traditional oil-based softeners that coat fabrics with oily residue, because it infuses fibers with long-lasting fragrance. In addition, since you add it directly with your <br />
laundry, this means no more waiting for the rinse cycle, no messy residual gunk in your <br />
washing machine, and no more stains from spilling liquid fabric softener.<br />
</span><span class="fw_sanitized"><span style="font-size: large;">HOW IS IT USED?? </span><br />
ADDED WITH LAUNDRY AT THE START OF THE WASH CYCLE<br />
Why struggle with plastic fabric softener balls, risk staining your clothes or waste time <br />
waiting for the rinse cycle? Simply add Purex Complete Crystals Softener directly with <br />
your laundry at the beginning of every wash cycle to infuse fabrics with long lasting <br />
freshness.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">HOW DOES IT WORK? </span><br />
CRYSTALS DISSOLVE INFUSING FABRICS WITH FRESHNESS<br />
Laundry scent lovers will perk up as freshness is infused into clothes with this new fabric <br />
softener. Over time, traditional oil-based softeners coat fibers causing harmful oily <br />
residue to accumulate. Purex Complete Crystals Softeners penetrate fabrics to reduce <br />
fiber entanglement and smooth frayed fibers providing a naturally soft feel.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">WHY IS IT DIFFERENT ??</span><br />
SAFE FOR ALL LAUNDRY AND BETTER FOR FABRICS<br />
Do ALL of your laundry—worry free! Purex Complete Crystals Softeners are safe for<br />
all laundry and will not harm, wear down or discolor your fabrics like oil-based softeners.<br />
Safe for all fabrics, including baby clothes, athletic wear, towels, and whites. Unlike other <br />
softeners, Crystals WILL:<br />
<blockquote>• Preserve the flame retardant benefits of your children’s clothes<br />
• Retain your athletic wear’s wicking ability which draws sweat away from your body<br />
• Maintain your towels’ built-in ability to absorb water<br />
• Keep your white clothing from yellowing and graying vs. using traditional softeners</blockquote></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSp9djovAsI/AAAAAAAACIw/mMVzO-jb_AA/s1600/purex-crystals-family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSp9djovAsI/AAAAAAAACIw/mMVzO-jb_AA/s320/purex-crystals-family.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>There are three scents available: Fresh Spring Water, Lavendar Blossom, and Tropical Splash <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stay tuned for a Purex Complete Crystals Softener giveaway!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider. I receive samples from them, but this review is my own opinion based on my experience with the product. </span></span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-35945113421451780322011-01-08T10:56:00.000-06:002011-01-08T10:56:22.666-06:00Donating to charities by playing educational games!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSiXFZmZLmI/AAAAAAAACIg/HhQDF0BcPB4/s1600/freeRiceLogo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSiXFZmZLmI/AAAAAAAACIg/HhQDF0BcPB4/s1600/freeRiceLogo.gif" /></a></div><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-cool-edutainment-games-play-donate-charitable/">MakeUseOf</a> has a great post on educational (or "edutainment" as he calls it) games that you can play to donate to charities. The one I am most familiar with is <a href="http://www.freerice.com/">Free Rice</a>. I learned about it from my mentor teacher when I was still in college (sometimes she reads this blog, and I am still thankful for her encouragement and knowledge). The gist of Free Rice is you play a vocabulary game and each definition that is correctly matched earns 10 grains of rice. The rice is donated through the World Food Programme, and they have donated over 86 billion grains so far! I always encourage my students to use this site because it is a good way for them to learn new vocabulary, and they get excited about donating the rice.<br />
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Enjoy this post? Subscribe to my feed or become a fan on Facebook!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-21870472863205210222011-01-08T01:30:00.000-06:002011-01-08T11:29:39.117-06:00Free Post-It Durable Tabs--new offer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSie3ISFIBI/AAAAAAAACIo/3nF960indj0/s1600/qform-tabs-ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSie3ISFIBI/AAAAAAAACIo/3nF960indj0/s1600/qform-tabs-ad.jpg" /></a></div>Post-It is offering a free sample of Durable Tabs again. You can order them <a href="http://www3.3m.com/qfrm/ShowSurvey?surveyid=JOJQDPP0&WT.mc_ev=clickthrough&WT.tsrc=email&WT.mc_ID=6300487-17895308">here</a>. I LOVE Post-Its!!!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-39728666589656941802011-01-08T00:30:00.000-06:002011-01-08T11:23:24.378-06:00Free Martin Luther King Day Materials<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSidDFh6pNI/AAAAAAAACIk/WYwZubhJrLs/s1600/poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSidDFh6pNI/AAAAAAAACIk/WYwZubhJrLs/s1600/poster.jpg" /></a></div>Order FREE materials from the <a href="http://mlkday.gov/plan/library/communications/posters.php">National and Community Service </a>for Martin Luther King Day. They are offering posters, bookmark, doorhangers, DVD and brochures. They have a set maximum for each type of material, but you can order a large number of posters (over 100). I've already placed my order and plan to give these out as prizes/incentives to my students!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-17229949021638836532011-01-04T22:00:00.002-06:002011-01-04T22:00:02.881-06:00Chinese New Year Educational kit from Panda Express<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSPmmRRcbHI/AAAAAAAACIc/_NmC1tqWhvA/s1600/cny2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSPmmRRcbHI/AAAAAAAACIc/_NmC1tqWhvA/s320/cny2009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Teachers can order this <a href="http://www.pandaexpress.com/px/2010/CNYSignUp.aspx">FREE kit</a> from Panda Express that teaches kids about the Chinese New Year (Feb. 3). </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">The site says, "T</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">he FREE kit, geared for second through fourth grades, includes:</span></span><br />
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<ul style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 14px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Panda Express’ Year of the Rabbit DVD</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 14px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Year of the Rabbit Fact Sheet</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 14px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Jade Emperor’s Interactive Game & Activity Sheet</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 14px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Chinese New Year Decoration Art Activity</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 14px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Lai See Activity Sheet</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 14px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Bookmarks (with a Free Kids Meal with purchase coupon attached</span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I definitely ordered this today, and I am especially excited about the bookmarks! My students love to get bookmarks! :) Each teacher can order enough materials for a maximum of 35 students, but multiple teachers from one school can order the kits. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks, <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2011/01/educational-freebie-chinese-new-year-learning-kit-panda-express-coupons.html">Money Saving Mom</a>! </span></div><br />
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</span></span></span></span>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-69284826819756039342011-01-04T21:27:00.000-06:002011-01-04T21:27:13.323-06:00$5 credit at Jasmere with quick survey!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSPlAnJEslI/AAAAAAAACIY/De45jIYqwaQ/s1600/jasmere_logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="92" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSPlAnJEslI/AAAAAAAACIY/De45jIYqwaQ/s320/jasmere_logo.png" width="320" /></a></div>I love this daily deal site called <a href="http://www.jasmere.com/r/77779579">Jasmere</a>! They promote the cutest boutiques and small businesses. It's a site that is very similar to Groupon, but the more people that purchase a deal, the lower the price goes. I love this about Jasmere! I've gotten some excellent deals in the past 6 months. Many of the businesses they sponsor are also eco-friendly or fair trade, which is an added bonus. Right now, if you take their survey, you can get a $5 credit. The survey takes less than a minute. It's about their site (nothing personal).<br />
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Here's what you need to do:<br />
1. Register <a href="http://www.jasmere.com/r/77779579">here</a> with Jasmere.<br />
2. Complete survey <a href="http://www.jasmere.com/freemoney">here</a>.<br />
3. Receive $5 credit instantly.<br />
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You will be amazed at how much $5 lowers your total purchase from Jasmere. I bought a $40 voucher for $12 before Christmas because my voucher lowered the already low price of $17.<br />
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It has been highlighted as a great deal site in tons of magazines and deal sites such as Real Simple, Essence, Good Housekeeping, and Consumers' Digest. You can see these articles <a href="http://www.jasmere.com/news">here</a>.<br />
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**Please support my site by using the links provided. Thanks!<br />
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Enjoy this post? Become a fan on Facebook or subscribe to my feed!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-31077631799312263372011-01-03T21:13:00.000-06:002011-01-03T21:13:53.504-06:00Cool (Free) Teacher Resource<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSKQJQTdKaI/AAAAAAAACIU/abdzCPELWsE/s1600/gameboard.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSKQJQTdKaI/AAAAAAAACIU/abdzCPELWsE/s1600/gameboard.gif" /></a></div>I just came across a very neat teacher blog called TeachNet.com. It has a lot of great printables! Two of my favorite posts so far are "<a href="http://teachnet.com/lessonplans/language-arts/more-ideas-than-ever-book-reports/">More Ideas Than You'll Ever Use for Book Reports</a>" and <a href="http://www.teachnet.com/homeworkopoly/">Homeworkopoly</a>, a printable game board to get your students motivated to do their homework (who couldn't use one of these?). This blog has ideas for all subjects and grades! <br />
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Did you enjoy this post? Become a fan on Facebook or subscribe to my feed! <iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thriftytexasteacher&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=B00000IWCT&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-86461415179143993642011-01-02T01:13:00.000-06:002011-01-02T01:13:02.884-06:00Free iPhone App for the mall!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSAlX3ZvbBI/AAAAAAAACIQ/5BKWb3pe4eQ/s1600/mzl.fwrwydml.320x480-75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSAlX3ZvbBI/AAAAAAAACIQ/5BKWb3pe4eQ/s320/mzl.fwrwydml.320x480-75.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>I found this app today that gives you the layout of the mall you are going to. It's called <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/fastmall-shopping-malls-community/id340656157?mt=8">FastMall</a>. It also shows where to find the restrooms! I don't venture into the mall much, especially here in Houston, but I think this app will be very helpful in the future. It also includes outlet malls--my favorite!<br />
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Happy New Year, by the way! Wishing you many blessings this year! :)Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-49100533965322668952011-01-02T01:08:00.000-06:002011-01-02T01:08:47.141-06:00Request Free Coupon Booklet for P&G products!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSAkUvDZc-I/AAAAAAAACIM/9XdfDUBPMAw/s1600/header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="106" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TSAkUvDZc-I/AAAAAAAACIM/9XdfDUBPMAw/s400/header.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>You can request a Home Made Simple coupon booklet for over $35 worth of coupons from P&G <a href="https://www.thepromotionaloffer.com/hmsdrtv/">here</a>. These usually have high value coupons that don't expire for awhile. <br />
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Thanks, <a href="http://www.savingwithshellie.com/2010/12/30/new-home-made-simple-coupon-book-4/">Saving with Shellie!</a>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-91853543705809559342010-12-28T20:32:00.000-06:002010-12-28T20:32:41.766-06:00Free New Year PrintablesI hope you had a wonderful Christmas with your family! Now, we're looking forward to the New Year! Here are some printables to help you celebrate...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TRqc8etWDFI/AAAAAAAACII/awBDNocZ9DQ/s1600/0_0_0_0_190_190_csupload_26289440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TRqc8etWDFI/AAAAAAAACII/awBDNocZ9DQ/s1600/0_0_0_0_190_190_csupload_26289440.jpg" />I</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love this poster printable from <a href="http://www.customprintablesonline.com/Freebies-Downloads.html">Custom Printables</a>. It can easily be printed and put in a 5x7 frame </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TRqcHO2BIlI/AAAAAAAACIE/BErrvZst1hk/s1600/20012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TRqcHO2BIlI/AAAAAAAACIE/BErrvZst1hk/s320/20012.png" width="187" /></a></div>This free download features EVERYTHING you need for an awesome party from <a href="http://www.love-the-day.com/lovetheday/wordpress/?p=920">LOVE THE DAY</a>! The designer created this to help spread the word about an organization called Operation Shower--an organization that provides baby showers for military wives! Very cool! Check out the site and see how you can help!<br />
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Thanks to <a href="http://www.momsbyheart.net/search?updated-max=2010-12-27T10%3A06%3A00-06%3A00&max-results=8">Moms by Heart.net</a> for finding these great downloads!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-84117797326958871042010-12-13T22:32:00.000-06:002010-12-13T22:32:02.940-06:00What every teacher dreams of having at home...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TQby5-lrBZI/AAAAAAAACH0/OHxvLwtnexw/s1600/41fkT8bHuYL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TQby5-lrBZI/AAAAAAAACH0/OHxvLwtnexw/s200/41fkT8bHuYL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>A laminator!! Maybe I'm the only one, but I would love to have a laminator at home. Now you can get a Scotch Thermal Laminator for $16.99, which is 79% off the original price ($80.49) on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Thermal-Laminator-Inches-TL901/dp/B0010JEJPC">Amazon's Deal of the Day</a>. Amazing! <br />
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Did you enjoy this post? Subscribe to my feed or become a fan on Facebook!<iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thriftytexasteacher&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=B0010JEJPC&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521252044856388205.post-77252460441552515292010-12-13T22:24:00.000-06:002010-12-13T22:24:02.680-06:00Pay $10 for a $25 donation to DonorsChoose.org<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TQbxV8s5P1I/AAAAAAAACHw/E_cmSmSo0mo/s1600/donorschoose.org_Oprah_s-Favorite2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5kh5uh7vyoE/TQbxV8s5P1I/AAAAAAAACHw/E_cmSmSo0mo/s320/donorschoose.org_Oprah_s-Favorite2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>As a benefactor of DonorsChoose, I know how meaningful it is to receive donations in order to get a project fulfilled. DonorsChoose is an organization that allows teachers to propose projects they would like to get funded through donations. Groupon has linked up with Pershing Square Foundation to create a great deal. Pershing Square is donating 60% of the $25 when you buy $10! Check it out <a href="http://www.groupon.com/deals/donorschoose-org-houston?c=gpc&p=2">here</a>! If you're new to Groupon, sign up <a href="http://www.groupon.com/users/rachel-p-1/referrals">here</a>. They have some great deals!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12491568238175556855noreply@blogger.com0