Dressing and Educating: Days 110-114

February 15, 2017February 12, 2017 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

Day 110: February 6, 2017

I was having a fantastic Monday until 1:00pm. All of a sudden, I had chills and the onset of a fever. In English my students were reading and in Honors World History we were wrapping up Battles of World War I presentations so I was able to fly under the radar and rest my body as the students led most of the activity.

(I ended up going home immediately after school and had a fever of 102. I spent the next 36 hours in bed nursing a sinus infection and high temp. No school for me this Tuesday.)

I was wearing my striped Old Navy tunic, leggings from Lula Roe and Toms.

Day 112: February 8, 2017

After my fever broke late on Tuesday I forced myself to get back to the classroom on Wednesday for Parent Teacher Conferences. In English, we finished reading Not a Drop to Drink by Mindy McGinnis and in Honors World History my students reviewed many of the battles of World War I with an activity.

Still not feeling 100% made staying late for conferences a bit of a struggle. I met with several families about student progress and as we begin scheduling for next school year soon I had some questions about whether or not some students in the honors program should continue in that course. Overall, it was a good night and I met some wonderful parents and families of my students.

I was wearing my Elisa Dress by Collective Concepts from my Stitch Fix #9.

Day 113: February 9, 2017

In English I spent the period prepping my students for their first Socratic Seminar. I defined its purpose and what students should expect. The remainder of the class period was time allowed for students to create critical thinking questions and to gather evidence for the seminar.

In Honors World History we began a discussion about propaganda and its role in World War I. Also, the teacher of the Honors American History course (who they will have next year) came into the class and answered questions about next year. This is valuable because as students begin to create their schedules for sophomore year they have some insight into whether or not they should continue in the honors program.

I wore a white Merona sweater and red leggings.

Day 114: February 10, 2017

I finally started feeling like a human again. After days of breathing through my mouth and battling my energy reserve I was able to wake up feeling energized and ready for a great day. In English, my students held a Socratic Seminar to discuss the book we just finished in class. I was pleased with the professional conversations that arose during that time.

My desks were arranged in two circles. The inner circle was the “Speaking Circle” where the seminars were held. The outer circle was the “Listening Circle” where students evaluated their peers in the inner circle. Each class period was divided into two eighteen minute sessions. Each student had an opportunity to both listen and speak by the end of the class period. I was so pleased with their performance and the points that were brought up during the class. I provided feedback for every student and felt like this exercise was worth the while.

In Honors World History we began to look at details defining the Total War and conscription of World War I. At the end of the class period we played a friendly game of Kahoot! to review what we have learned this week. It was a fun way to end a Friday.

Today I wore a Classic T from Lula Roe and my Abrianna Knit Long Sleeve Cardigan by 41Hawthorn from Stitch Fix #1.

It was a long week from battling illness to Parent Teacher Conferences to facilitating a Socratic Seminar, but at the end of the week I felt accomplished and proud of the student performances.

Which look was your favorite this week?

*This post contains affiliate links. I may receive compensation for this post.

The Ameri Brit Mom

Let Stitch Fix Be Your Last Minute Gift

February 13, 2017February 20, 2017 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

Valentines Day will be here tomorrow and many of us are scrambling in search of a gift for that special someone. It isn’t too late to order a Stitch Fix gift card. Your gift card can be emailed to your valentine shortly after purchase and it allows your other half to pick out the styles that fit them best.

During the bustle of the Christmas holiday I had several friends who ordered Stitch Fix gift cards that either contributed to existing accounts or allowed people to start the Stitch Fix experience for the very first time. I received a gift card myself and was able to purchase this Brookline Mix Material Sweater by Market and Spruce with it:

The best part about Stitch Fix is the personal stylist.

Being able to request specific pieces and the opportunity to collaborate with the stylist makes the $20 style fee worth it. Each style fee can be applied to the items you purchase from your box. It’s a win-win.

Stitch Fix also carries petite, maternity, and men’s clothing. Gift cards are not just for the ladies in your life.

Shhh…I know it is very last minute. I promise not to tell if you wait until the eleventh hour to buy your Stitch Fix gift card.

**This post contains affiliate links and I may receive compensation as a result of this post.

The Ameri Brit Mom

Fashion · Uncategorized

Dressing and Educating: Days 105-109

February 9, 2017February 9, 2017 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

Day 105: January 30, 2017

Today I amped up my grammar instruction. We moved from identifying subjects and predicates (an intermediate skill) to defining phrases and clauses. We took things beyond simple identification and discussed how subjects and predicates interact within sentence structure.

In Honors World History we outlined the pre-war alliances and the failed attempt to end the war quickly by German General Von Schlieffen.

Today I wore Lula Roe leggings, a navy dress and cardigan from Maurices.

Day 106: January 31, 2017

The picture quality is a bit terrible–my apologies.

Today I took part in a Literacy Framework meeting for my district. I was selected to represent the high school teachers and to relay information from that meeting to my department. I had a day of release for this meeting so I don’t have my usual classroom back drop. Instead of teaching I met and collaborated with Language Arts teachers from all over the district and discussed subjects I am passionate about as an educator and parent.

It was a great day!

I wore my Iglesia Pleated top by Papermoon from Stitch Fix #4 and my Adorra Skinny Jeans by Just Black from Stitch Fix #8

Day 107: February 1, 2017

What happened to January? I walked in to my classroom this morning having completely forgotten about the shift in month. It is February which is “crunch time” as the national tests are just a few weeks away. Today in English we added more to our understanding of dependent and independent clauses and started putting them together to form grammatically correct sentences. (We also debunked the myth that you cannot start a sentence with ‘because’ according to clause rules.)

In Honors World History my students are researching battles from World War I which they will present tomorrow to their classmates via GoogleSlides.

Today I wore black slacks from The Limited, a white tank from Primark in England and a Dinah Open Front Cardigan by Staccato from Stitch Fix #3 .

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Day 108: February 2, 2017

For a Thursday I was pretty energized today. In English my students read a couple of chapters and we are nearing the end of Not a Drop to Drink. We outlined major changes in the main characters. In Honors World History students began their battle presentations. Most students went above and beyond expectations.

I wore olive jeggings, my Carlito Dolman Knit Top by Papermoon from Stitch Fix #4 and a navy vest from Old Navy.

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Day 109: February 3, 2017

Today marked the end of the third quarter interim. Students had an early release so that teachers could take part in Professional Development. In English, students completed a scramble activity where they had example phrases that they had to sort into phrase and clause categories. In Honors World History, more students had the opportunity to present their World War I battles.

The teachers focused on Blended Learning. We discussed and participated in lessons that taught us how to use these practices in our classrooms. It was fun to try something new and to think about ways to incorporate it into my classroom.

Today I wore spirit gear and jeans.

Which outfit was your favorite this week?

The Ameri Brit Mom

**This post contains affiliate links and I may receive compensation for this post.

Fashion · stitch fix · Uncategorized

Dressing and Educating: Day 100!!

January 26, 2017February 20, 2017 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

For the past 100 days of my school year I have shared with you outfit ideas for the classroom within a teacher’s budget. In celebration of 100 days down I want to revisit my top 5 outfits so far this year.

5- Gusta Two Pocket Top by Skies are Blue (Stitch Fix #8)

4- Elisa Dress by Collective Concepts (Stitch Fix #9)

3-Jahana Cargo Vest by Market & Spruce (Stitch Fix #7)

2- Ilaria Crochet Trim Tunic by Alice Blue (Stitch Fix #8)

1-Pedrine Keyhole Back Shirt by Renee C (Stitch Fix #6) and Red Toms (Stitch Fix #5)

Each of these five outfits was put together with the help of my personal stylists at Stitch Fix. I started my journey as a Stitch Fix Influencer this fall and I’ve enjoyed the opportunities to spread love for their clothes and company with all of you who read my blog and stop by from time to time. Stitch Fix has updated my wardrobe and helped me to develop my personal style. Because of Stitch Fix, I am both comfortable and professional as I teach my high school English and Honors World History classes.

I’m looking forward to 80 more days of outfit inspiration with the help of Stitch Fix.

The Ameri Brit Mom

**This post contains affiliate links and I may be compensated for this post.

Fashion · stitch fix · Uncategorized

Keep It Simple This Valentine’s Day

January 23, 2017February 20, 2017 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

3Stitch-Fix-Gift-Card-Valentine (1).jpg

In three weeks couples all over the world will be celebrating Valentine’s Day.

I’ve never been a huge fan of the holiday. Call me cynical, but in my opinion, couples with a healthy relationship should be honoring their bond daily. February 14th is no magical day. It should be a day like any other where gratitude is expressed and moments are cherished.

I also realize that for some, Valentine’s Day can be painful. It’s a reminder that another year has gone by without finding a spouse. It’s a reminder that you thought you’d spend forever with someone and it didn’t work out. It’s a reminder that the person you love was taken too soon. It’s a day that so many try to forget despite social media and marketing tactics thrusting reminders in their faces.

If you are in a committed relationship–make it a good day. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top, but remind your partner that you love them (as you should every day.) Maybe do something different or exchange a small gift. Cherish every day together, not just February 14ths.

If you are one of those people who wish you could skip work and all human interactions on this day I hear you. Gather some of your other single friends and celebrate where you are on your journeys. Lift each other up with words of encouragement, laughter, and a glass of wine. Know that there is nothing wrong with being alone on Valentine’s Day. It’s a day like all the others and don’t let anything make you feel like you are “less than” because you are single.

If you are looking for something for a friend or spouse that is truly unique to them consider purchasing a gift card to Stitch Fix. It’s a simple gift that keeps on giving. With this gift card the recipient can be introduced to Stitch Fix for the very first time. If they are already part of the program then they can choose to use their gift card on pieces they select that fit their bodies and style well. Give the gift of a personal stylist this season for all of the people in your life whom you love. Stitch Fix now provides clothing for women (regular, maternity, petite) and men.

All throughout the year (every day to be exact) my husband and I give each other constant reminders of our love. We will go out to dinner on Valentine’s Day and maybe even spend a little bit on a gift, but it’s important to remember these things should be regular parts of our interactions. It isn’t about assorted chocolates, giant teddy bears, fancy dinners, or jewelry.

Love is about going into the trenches of this life ready to defend one another to the death. It’s about fighting side-by-side for what is good and lovely. It’s about choosing each other every day, not just on February 14th.

The Ameri Brit Mom

**This post contains affiliate links. I may receive compensation as a result of this post.

Fashion · Uncategorized

Dressing and Educating: Days 91-95

January 18, 2017January 15, 2017 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

Day 91: January 9, 2017

My traditional classroom became an online one today as students used Google Classroom to complete and submit assignments. One goal I had for myself this year was to utilize and establish my Google Classroom. Whenever possible I am trading in paper assignments for ones that can be turned in electronically. I also use other Google Apps for quizzes and surveys. I cannot wait for the day where my school has a 1:1 ratio of devices to students. Until then, I implement these practices as often as I can being aware of the fact that other teachers may need access to this technology.

In English, students are currently collaborating on a Google Doc to write an essay. As a group they are turning in one paper for which each student is given a responsibility. We are practicing skills in electronic collaboration, but also in our writing and editing as well.

In Honors World History my students are using a web quest format to research Africa before and after it was imperialized the Europeans.

It was a good Monday! I wore a dress from Stitch Fix #9, a cardigan, and jeggings.

Day 92: January 10, 2017

Today was another two hour delay. I woke up to a sheet of ice.

My classes were still productive as we moved forward on writing projects in English and a study of African imperialism in Honors World History. I spent much of the day proofreading student writing in Google and providing feedback for them.

I also met today with the principal and curriculum director to discuss results from a common quarterly assessment given in English 9. Everything was positive and the Ohio AIR tests will be here before we know it.

Today I wore olive jeggings and a new sweater from Stitch Fix #10.

Day 93: January 11, 2017

Today was the very first Snow Day of the school year. It’s peculiar because it didn’t end up actually snowing. And the temperature reached 50 degrees by mid-day. Overnight a light drizzle fell and low morning temperatures caused a temporary freeze on the roads. It was an icy morning, but by the middle of the day it was beautiful. This isn’t quite how I pictured our first weather cancellation, but it was nice.

I stayed in all day and worked on writing, reading, and catching up on my Netflix binge.

I’m wearing my 41Hawthorne Queensland Dolman Jersey Top from my Stitch Fix #2. It’s so comfortable and stretchy. It’s one of my top picks from the service.

Day 94: January 12, 2017

My day started off decently, but just kept getting better.

In the morning my classes were putting their final touches on the essays we have been crafting for over a week. With the deadline this evening groups scrambled to make up for lost time yesterday. I conferenced with different groups. In most cases I met with groups face-to-face, but at times I combed through their Google Docs and held a virtual conference across the room using the chat feature within the program. This is a highly effective tool that helps me to be an even more efficient teacher.

In Honors World History my students were quizzed over fifteen African countries. It was a geography quiz that required students to know geography, locations, and capitals. As one of my hardest map tests all year I was really pleased with student scores.

I had a really stellar meeting with my principal and history department today. I feel so blessed to be part of such a kick-butt team of teachers. Together we work really well and we bring fresh ideas to the world of Social Studies. Go team!

Today I wore my Katniss Crochet Yoke Top from my Stitch Fix #7. I paired the top with dark slacks and a sweater.

Day 95: January 13, 2016

I showed up today with all my energy! I was ready to get Friday finished so that I could move into the three-day weekend. I was feeling super positive after my fantastic Thursday and I stayed that way through the whole day.

In English my students were reading. We did some discussion together as a class, but a majority of the class period was spent making progress in Not a Drop to Drink by Mindy McGinnis.

In Honors World History I taught a little bit on imperialism of Muslim nations in the Ottoman Empire. I’m really excited because the introduction to World War I is on the horizon. In one more week I should be there and from that point forward my course is spent studying wars.

Today I wore my Gusta Two Pocket Top from my Stitch Fix #8. I paired that with a black tee from Primark in England.

This week I wore something from Stitch Fix each day. I reminisced all week about some of my favorite pieces and brought new accessories to previous looks. As a member of the Stitch Fix Influencer team I do receive compensation from affiliate links and sales (which are found on this page.)

As one of my resolutions this year I have set goals of raising awareness about the Stitch Fix company. I know there are skeptics out there who wonder if this five-item box is really worth it. I would love to chat with you if you are unsure of the products and services that they offer. You can also expect to see more Stitch Fix information in the future on this blog.

Which Stitch Fix style was your favorite this week?

The Ameri Brit Mom

Fashion · stitch fix · Uncategorized

Stitch Fix #10

January 9, 2017February 20, 2017 The Ameri Brit Mom1 Comment

It’s hard to believe that this is my tenth Stitch Fix since Fall of 2015. I have my fixes arrive every other month. Ten boxes in and I still get excited when the mail man drops off my box.

One thing I love about Stitch Fix is that I get the opportunity to communicate with my stylist prior to my fix being sent out. I can communicate with her either directly through my Stitch Fix account or through my style board on Pinterest.

This time around she sensed my desire for sweaters and scarves as I had spent some time scouring Pinterest for new sweater styles. I must say my stylist nailed it this time! Every piece was adorable. Luckily, some of my family members had purchased Stitch Fix gift cards for me so I could manage to splurge a bit this time around.

Here is a look at my pieces:

Yes-

1. Brookline Mix Material Sweater (Market and Spruce)

The color, the fit, and the style of this sweater made it an instant “YES!” for purchase. I love the plum color and the satin under layer in the back. This sweater will go well with several accessories I already own like the blanket scarf in the background. I love this sweater and am sure that it will be a new staple in my winter wardrobe.

2. Jessika Cowl Neck Poncho (RD Style)

I’ve been hoping for an over-sized, cowl neck since my last fix. I love the length and color of this top and I know it will pair well with so many things. I like it as is, but can also see myself adding a long sleeve shirt underneath for extra warmth. It is very comfortable and seems well put together. I’ve scored another new favorite for the season.

No-

3. Trissen Ribbed Knit Top (En Creme)

As cute as this top was I decided to return it. It’s a piece I could see myself wearing, but with financial limitations I had to say no. I always have a number in mind before I open a box and I try not to spend over that limit. Having said “yes” to sweaters means that I reached that limit a little sooner than if I had passed on one or both of them. So although I really liked the color and fit of this top I forced myself to pass.

4. Alpine Plaid Wrap Scarf (Look by M)

This scarf went perfectly with the knit top. The color schemes were similar and the fabrics were perfect compliments. The reason I returned this scarf, however, is because over Christmas I got a brand new blanket scarf in similar colors (navy and orange-Look). As a perk for being a Stitch Fix Influencer I received a blanket scarf from the company. It was an unexpected Christmas present that I have already gotten a lot of wear out of.

5. Joel Popover Knit Dress (Hailey 23)

This layered dress is actually one-piece. It was unique and comfortable, but sacrifices have to be made sometimes. If I already owned a pair of navy leggings I may have been able to justify this purchase, but in order to make it work in a winter wardrobe it would require leggings.

Being a part of the Stitch Fix Influencer program has been such a positive experience. I have met so many new people and had the opportunity to answer questions and point people toward a company that I have loved myself.

If you are interested in giving Stitch Fix a try please let me know. I will personally help you get set up and started or you can use my affiliate link to set up an account. Stitch Fix offers its customers a personal stylist who sends five pieces per fix to your home. The cost of a box is applied toward any pieces you purchase and there are discounts applicable if you choose to buy all five pieces in your box.

I would love to help you get set up and answer any questions.

Thanks for stopping by and for letting me introduce you to an awesome company.

The Ameri Brit Mom

Fashion · Uncategorized

Dressing and Educating: Days 84-86

December 28, 2016December 27, 2016 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

Day 84: December 19, 2016

I hit the home stretch toward Christmas break today. In English, we reviewed for our big test with a friendly game of Review Basketball. We recently finished the seventh chapter of Not a Drop to Drink by Mindy McGinnis and so their test prior to Christmas Vacation is over the first seven chapters of the novel.

In Honors World History, my students performed their Epic Rap Battles between Karl Marx and Adam Smith. This was my first time conducting this project and my students really exceeded my expectations. I was so pleased with their finished products and enjoyed getting to see them rap live, listen to their pre-recorded videos, or present their slideshows about each philosopher.

I wore my brand new Perfect T and leggings from Lula Roe with a black cardigan, a scarf, and boots.

Day 85: December 20, 2016

A few years ago we used to hold semester exams the last three days before Christmas break. Because of state testing and other requirements my district decided not to add to the already weighty test schedule with semester exams. I go back and forth on how I feel about taking exams off of the table, but one thing I know I miss is the order it created for the last three days. With an exam-adjusted schedule school was all-business those last days before break. I miss that.

Today my students were buzzing with talk about Christmas and many of them handed out gifts to friends in the hall way. It was a loud day and particularly challenging in my English classes as my students took their test over the first seven chapters of Not a Drop to Drink. I was not pleased with their scores on the test which has me worried that many of them have turned off their “school brain” a little early.

Today I wore red jeggings, a white tshirt, and a blue flannel from Primark in England.

Day 86: December 21, 2016

Finally, the last day before break.

Students in Honors World History took their unit test today over the Industrial Revolution. It was a tidy end to the semester as we can begin a brand new unit after Christmas break. We will be moving on to the Age of Imperialism and barreling toward the first world war.

In English, since students took their test yesterday I decided to make today a reading day. Students were given a set of terms and ideas relating to irony. They defined the words and then we read “The Gift of the Magi” together. It’s a classic story that always leads into some interesting discussion.

Today I wore jeans and a pink sweater from Delias.

I’m so glad to be entering my Christmas break. By the time you read this I will already be in the midst of the most wonderful time of the year cherishing memories with those I love along the way. I hope you are all enjoying this same time during the Holidays season.

The Ameri Brit Mom

Fashion · Uncategorized

Dressing and Educating: Days 79-83

December 20, 2016December 17, 2016 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

Day 79: December 12, 2016

I would be lying if I said I was happy to wake up early and go to school this morning. For over a week the weather men had been predicting a winter storm for Sunday night. I pulled out all the old wives’ tales and superstitions hoping for that first snow day. I woke up to a few rain puddles and a damp yard. No snow in sight.

In History today my students presented their Industrial Revolution projects. This was a research based project where students selected their mode of communication. Some wrote novels, some made posters, and others created Google Slides presentations. Here is an artistic interpretation of life in the tenements and work in the factories.

I wore a cowl neck sling dress, black Lula Roe leggings, and Sperry boots this Monday morning.

Day 80: December 13, 2016

Today marked the beginning of snow season. It was the first snow storm this winter in Ohio. I arrived at school just before 7am to clear roads, but the snow started a few hours later and fell relentlessly through school hours and wasn’t expected to cease until 9pm.

As if the snow levels weren’t enough of a distraction the annual surprise lockdown took place today. Every year law enforcement officers from the county show up unannounced and conduct a thorough search of the campus. During this search they look for drugs and narcotics. Classrooms are held under a level 1 lockdown during this event which means students are not permitted out of the classroom and so I was held up with the same group of students for almost two hours.

I was wearing a top from Lula Roe, navy slacks from Old Navy and my Sperry boots which have become my best friend this winter.

Day 81: December 14, 2016

As a result of the snowfall last night we had a 2 hour delay at my school today.

Most classes were shortened and the kids were all rambunctious as they were armed with some extra sleep. It was nice to get the day started under sunlight, but I was really pulling for a snow day.

In my short classes we worked on reading and finishing up homework.

Today I wore olive jeggings, a black tunic sweater from The Limited, a scarf from Charming Charlies, and my Sperry boots.

Day 82: December 15, 2016

For the second day in a row we experienced a two hour delay at my school. Wind chills were below zero and so my district decided to give us all a little extra time to make it in to school. (Or to snuggle in the warmth of our beds as I did.)

On delay days, all but one of my classes is less than 25 minutes long. I had enough time to read one chapter of Not a Drop to Drink with my English classes and to go over a homework assignment with my Honors History class.

I wore my skinny black pants from the Limited, a polka dot blouse from The Limited, and a maroon sweater from Maurices.

Day 83: December 16, 2016

We were back on a regular bell schedule despite the frigid, single-digit temperatures. In English, we finished up the seventh chapter of the book we are reading and I had each small group write six review questions for next week’s test. I will use the questions in a Review Basketball game Monday.

In History the students are working on rap battles between Karl Marx and Adam Smith. many of them recorded their raps today. I’m excited to hear the finished products on Monday!

Today I wore jeggings, a pinstriped top from Lula Roe and an oversized brown sweater from Kohls.

This week was wet and cold and I did my best to dress to keep myself warm in the classroom. Which of the looks was your favorite?

The Ameri Brit Mom

Fashion · Uncategorized

Last Minute Gift Guide

December 18, 2016January 4, 2017 The Ameri Brit MomLeave a comment

Six days and counting until the BIG morning. I envy each and every one of you who have finished all of your purchases (not to mention those over achievers out there who have already wrapped your gifts too!)

If your family is anything like mine the next six days will be full of fun gathered with the people you love. Christmas dinners. Church programs. Caroling. Holiday parties with friends. All of these precious moments are truly the reason for the season. One thing that shouldn’t get in the way of these celebrations is the daunting list of gifts that may still need to be purchased.

A quick way to take care of those fashion lovers in your life is to give them the gift of style. Ordering a Stitch Fix gift card takes only a few minutes and the digital gift card will appear in your email inbox.

You can give a gift card to someone who is currently enrolled in the Stitch Fix program or you can provide an opportunity for someone to try it for the very first time. With a Stitch Fix gift card you are allowing your loved ones to create their own style from the selection of informed stylists.

As we head into the final stretch of this Christmas season don’t let gift giving be a stressor. Use my link to the Stitch Fix website and select the gift card option in the upper right hand corner. Ever since I started with Stitch Fix I have been pleased with my shipments and now that I am a Stitch Fix Influencer I may receive compensation for your purchases and for spreading the love of fashion to those of you who cross paths with me in the blogosphere.

Whatever you decide to give this Holiday Season I hope you do so with love and that you remember that the reason for this season isn’t the decking of the halls, the expenses gifts, or the football games, but rather the celebration of the things most dear to our hearts.

Merry Christmas,

The Ameri Brit Mom