1. Get caught up on some R & R.
It usually takes me a couple weeks to feel back to normal after a strenuous end of the school year. This year has been no exception. To get caught up on my rest, I like to "try" to get some extra sleep and read some books I've been meaning to get my hands on (see the list later on in this post). And this year we finally broke down and purchased a new mattress set, which will make getting some extra rest even better!
2. Finish moving in
My husband and I recently moved, so I've been living with boxes hanging around, waiting for school to end. So, it's time to unpack those lingering boxes, hang pictures, and make those little improvements that will make this new house our new home.
3. Go through my closet
This one scares me the most - I have so many clothes that I haven't worn in ages that need to be donated or sold at an upcoming garage sale. But the idea of sorting through the stacks can be overwhelming and will take time.
4. Read books, books and more books!
It kills me, but I don't read for pleasure at all during the school year. I just don't have time, especially since I haven't taught the same grade level consistently for 5 years. So, once summer hits, I'm ready to begin reading. Here's a few of the books on my list for this summer:
- The Hobbit
- And Then There Were None
- The Book Thief
- The Art of Racing in the Rain
- the Narnia Series (I've read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, but not the others)
- Unbroken
- The Story Teller
- Pride and Prejudice
These don't include all the YA books and classroom novels that I plan on writing units for... I think there's way too many books in the world to read! If you have any suggestions to add to my list, let me know!
5. Get some traveling time in
I love traveling! This summer, I'm planning on attending the Teachers Pay Teachers conference in Vegas (YAY!). I'd love to visit some friends in other states, too, but I'm not sure I'll be able to fit those trips in. Anything's possible, though!
6. Spending time with family and friends
I feel that when I'm in the middle of a school year, I'm confined to a box. A box that only allows me to interact with people who naturally cross my path. No time for nights out with friends or making memories with my family members. Hoping this changes a bit this year, but it's just my reality right now. So, summers are important for catching up!
7. Work on curriculum
I know... this is the least desirable of my list, but it's something that has to be done. I'm moving to a new school this year, so I need to get familiar with my curriculum. Planning a couple units out will be very beneficial come October!
8. Work on my TpT store
This one sounds like work, but it's really one of my passions. I love writing curriculum, and my TpT store has become such a significant source of income for my family. Spending time on new products and updating current ones is definitely a priority! I've recently opened a second store "The Primary Owl Spot," and hope to stock this one full of great products for K-2nd grade teachers.
9. Working on my piano skills
I've started taking piano lessons again this summer with hopes to fill in some gaps where I know I can improve. I play for church, and would love to improve.
10. Get healthy
I'm teaching summer school through a grant that my local YMCA received. I had no idea that I would get a year's Y membership for free! So, hopefully that's the motivation I need to start exercising and, in turn, eating better and losing some of the pounds I've gained in the last couple years.
When I look at this list, I wonder when I'm going to ever accomplish any of this! Thankfully, I have all of July and most of August before school starts again.
What's on your Summer Bucket List?
