My first blog!

How in the world does one come up with a great first blog?  I'm guessing the answer is simple...they don't.  I'm hoping over time I improve, but for now here it is.  Plain and simple.

I'm currently a 3rd grade teacher in Georgia.  I have a husband, Nick, and an almost two year old son, Lachlan.  In between teaching and home life, I've created a new blog, decided to amp up my TpT Store, embrace social media, and prepare for the arrival of my second son, Cohen.  He'll be making his debut in July.

This picture pretty much sums up the above...

Another interest of mine is cooking and baking.  Do I always have time for it?  HAHAHA...no.  However, I love to explore new recipes and see what meals I can come up with on the fly.  With that said, check back weekly for some great, quick, family friendly recipes that have personally been tested by yours truly.

I definitely feel crazy and overwhelmed at the thought of taking all of this on, but at the same time I'm excited!  I have to say that I have a tendency to jump into things, get stressed, and then stop altogether.  That won't be the case this time.  How am I so sure?

It all became a reality for me when I started reading blogs by other teachers who had written posts about the start and eventual success of their TpT stores and blogs.  I read many blogs by many talented teachers, but one in particular really motivated me to get started on this new venture.

The 3AM Teacher wrote a post titled From One Teacherprenaur to Another: My Blogger Beginning & Tips for Beginners.  This post really changed my outlook on something I've wanted to do for a long time, but didn't think I could.  If you haven't read this post and you are a new blogger and/or TpT store owner, you are missing out.  Her story is heartbreaking and triumphant, and it will give you the umph you need to get moving.  Not only that, her blog is amazing in itself!  Go check her out!

I also have to send a huge shout out and a thank you to Crayonbox Learning for helping me design this amazing blog.  I told her what I wanted, and she immediately went to work making my vision a reality.  I can't thank her or recommend her enough.  If you are considering "fancying" your blog, I suggest you see this lady!

Finally, I'll end with a few questions I have for you experienced bloggers.  How do you keep your store, blog, and social media organized?  What do you use as inspiration for new blog posts?  Do you have a blogging schedule? What is your most successful tip for a first time blogger and store owner?