Saturday, August 15, 2015

I'm Back

Hi everyone!
I'm back!  Not that it is a big deal because I don't have a huge blog following.  I want to commit to blogging but I have struggled with finding my blogging "voice."  I have realized in recent years that despite being loud and having what appears to be a very outgoing personality - I struggle, and I mean really struggle, with social anxiety.  I know it stems from a core of personal insecurities but it sucks because it means that I avoid situations that would probably be a lot of fun!  For the past 2 years I have sworn that I am going to Vegas for the TPT conference and then both years I chickened out.  Blogging has also caused me anxiety.  How do I put myself out there to share myself and my classroom?  I get wonderful feedback in my TPT store but I continue to "hide."  In an attempt to get comfortable in my own skin I have made a goal to try and step out of my comfort zone a bit.  I have not been on any form of social networking so I have just joined the "Instagram" world and I love it!!!  Since it is summer vacation I have only been posting personal photos but that's okay and I figure I will just naturally ease into sharing more educational posts.  I have made it a goal to blog once a week - no excuses!  I am getting ready to start my 23rd year of teaching and I still love my job!  I am excited about sharing my passions with you!  The truth is - I am a complete goofball!  I love to be silly and I am full of energy so get ready for the ride!
Bye for now,
Natalie

11 comments:

  1. Good for you for taking risks and trying to step out of your comfort zone! You can do it!!!

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  2. Thank you for your words of encouragement!

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  3. So glad you are back. I have always loved your work and reading your blog. I too am a fellow "Ontarian" and have always wanted to go to the TPT conference but personal and financial situations have got in the way. I only wish I was still teaching grade 2-3 so I could use your stuff. Keep taking risks!
    Jackie

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    1. Hi Jackie,
      Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog and leave me a comment! It is always nice to hear from a fellow Ontarian:) Thank you for your kind words of encouragement!

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  4. I think you are awesome Natalie and totally get that feeling of wanting to hide. I buy and use your products and think that you create wonderful resources. I hope to go to Vegas next summer too, for the first time. It would be great to finally meet you.

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    1. HI Leslie,
      Thank you so much for taking the time to leave me such sweet words of encouragement! I really didn't expect to hear from anyone! Let make a promise to each other to go to Vegas next summer and have a drink together! At least we won't be alone then!

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  5. Welcome back! I'm happy to read your blog! You're very brave to step outside your comfort zone - most impressive!

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  6. Hi Susan,
    Thank you for your sweet words of encouragement! Sometimes it's scary to be a big girl...lol!

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  7. Welcome back! Glad you decided to take the (blogging) plunge again :) I've missed your posts!

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  8. HI Nikki!
    Thank you for your kind words! I am going to get my blog redone so it looks nice and pretty, too. I hope you firm up a spot for December (long waiting list). Thank you for your ongoing support!

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  9. I am soooo happy to read this!! I love your units and your posts! I also love that you are in ontario! Welcome back!

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