latest on the blog
Happy Friday friends and happy August 1st!! I hope that you have had a lovely and wonderful week! I am so grateful to spend time with each of you in this sweet space every single day. This week has been delightful and I am still just resting in so much gratitude for so many things!!
Thank you SO much for ALL of your continued excitement this week and sweet messages about the opportunity that I have to speak at the International Conference on Social Studies, Humanities, and Education in Paris this month! AHH I am so excited... and very nervous! I am truly so honored and excited and appreciate all of your support!
One of those things continues to be our amazing cruise with Viking River Cruises. I have started to share here on the blog, but if you haven't already been following along on instagram for so many beautiful reels and pictures to bring a smile to your face (you can connect HERE).
Here are the posts from this past week:
Rhone River Cruise with Viking River Cruises...
Personal Thoughts...
.jpg "back to school journals")
From the Caravan Sonnet Shoppe...
The Importance of Laughter for Your Health 
I hope that you have a wonderful Friday friends! Thank you for making this such an incredible space to come to and connect with every single day. I am so blessed!!
Happy Friday friends!
*update- July 31, 2025*
Happy Thursday friends! For today's Thursday Health Thoughts Post I wanted to re-share a post that was originally written here on the blog in 2016 about the Importance of Laughter for our health. While this post was written in the midst of my personal fight for health and physical life, I have found myself revisiting the wisdom of this for every single day. Even after healing, it has remained true for my life the importance of this- and the wisdom of finding laughter for your health.
I do want to add in a disclaimer also - I naturally find the joy, laughter, and humor in life... but I know that when you are in pain and sick that is not always easy to do so I hope that these tips can be helpful!
*original post from 2016*
Shortly after I was diagnosed with Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease and Cancer I went to work reading many different books and doing tons of research (which I am sure everyone does!). My research kept pointing me to Norman Cousins book, "Anatomy of an Illness" so I definitely made a point to read this book. I was inspired and amazed by his story and would definitely recommend it, no matter anyone's diagnosis or even if you are completely healthy.
If you are not familiar with Cousins' story, he was diagnosed with a debilitating disease where his body would literally fuse together. It was incredibly painful and he was told it was incurable. Cousins shared that doctors only gave him a 500 to 1 chance of recovery.
Despite these discouraging odds Cousins implemented his own "treatment" and eventually recovered! In his book he discusses the entire method of what he did but one of the things that he writes about is the influence that laughter had on his healing process. Cousins (after he obtained his doctors' approval) chose not to stay in the hospital but he stayed in a hotel room (near the hospital) and in addition to his diet and vitamins he gave himself (as he termed it) "laugh therapy". Cousins watched and read anything that would bring him laughter. Overtime he started to see that for every ten minutes of laughter he would have a couple of pain free hours!
Isn't that incredible??!?
If you are not familiar with Cousins' story, he was diagnosed with a debilitating disease where his body would literally fuse together. It was incredibly painful and he was told it was incurable. Cousins shared that doctors only gave him a 500 to 1 chance of recovery.
Despite these discouraging odds Cousins implemented his own "treatment" and eventually recovered! In his book he discusses the entire method of what he did but one of the things that he writes about is the influence that laughter had on his healing process. Cousins (after he obtained his doctors' approval) chose not to stay in the hospital but he stayed in a hotel room (near the hospital) and in addition to his diet and vitamins he gave himself (as he termed it) "laugh therapy". Cousins watched and read anything that would bring him laughter. Overtime he started to see that for every ten minutes of laughter he would have a couple of pain free hours!
Isn't that incredible??!?
Every 10 minutes of laughter brought him a couple of pain free hours!! I was amazed when I read it!
Now, before I receive a ton of emails stating that this is not physically possible I do want to say that I do understand that when you are in pain and not feeling well it is sometimes hard to find the laughter. I do understand.
Seriously, I do.
But as I read the following statistics and information I was convinced again about the importance of finding laughter in our difficult and painful health circumstances.
Doctors say that laughter:
(1) can distract attention away from illness or pain
(2) can reduce tension
(3) can change a persons expectations by encouraging a different outlook
(4) can increase the production of endorphins which is the bodies natural pain killers
(5) can help the immune system in unexplained ways
(5) can help the immune system in unexplained ways
There are even some hospitals around the United States have even incorporated "laughter programs" to help their patients heal. There was an article several years ago about a Catholic hospital in Texas where nuns told funny stories to patients on a daily basis so that they would feel better and heal more quickly. The results and statistics in this hospital were astounding. Patients recovered faster, there were less complications, and patients were more inspired to fight for their lives despite grim diagnosis'.
Honestly, I do understand how difficult some days can be when you are hurting and sick or sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. There are times where tears are even to painful to cry. Life hurts and is messy and extremely difficult. But one of the things that shocked me to learn in my research was that it actually takes more effort and energy not to smile then it does to smile and laugh.
This really impacted me as my energy levels are so low and I try and do everything possible to not waste my little energy. Learning that it takes forty-three muscles to frown but only seventeen to smile is honestly a huge game changer. Does that mean that I don't cry or have moments where I am not laughing all of the time? Absolutely not. BUT it does mean that I have fought to find joy and laughter throughout each day and I truly believe that makes a difference in this healing journey.
This really impacted me as my energy levels are so low and I try and do everything possible to not waste my little energy. Learning that it takes forty-three muscles to frown but only seventeen to smile is honestly a huge game changer. Does that mean that I don't cry or have moments where I am not laughing all of the time? Absolutely not. BUT it does mean that I have fought to find joy and laughter throughout each day and I truly believe that makes a difference in this healing journey.
So what are some ways that you can find laughter ~ especially on days where it feels like that is the absolute last thing you want to do? Here are a few ideas:
* watch funny movies
* read funny books
* read the comics
*talk with friends and loved ones who bring laughter
* read funny blogs
(seriously, some are hilarious!)
* find the joy in simple things
Scamper, my kitty can make me laugh with things that he does. There are so many simple things that you can find to laugh about. An extra note... if you have never read the health post on the benefits of owning a pet click HERE!
* avoid the drama
I actually have chosen to gather facts about things that are happening worldwide but limit my "doomsday news reading"/ social media scrolling. I also have chosen to not watch anything that would cause stress, tension, or negative thoughts to go into my life.
* try not to take things so seriously
I am preaching to the choir on this because with being ill it can be difficult not to do this. I have learned though that if you look for the bad you will find it but if you look for the joy you can find joy.
* keep old emails, article clippings, letters, etc. that bring joy and laughter to look at often
* laugh at yourself
I have shared my endometriosis story here on the blog and to this day I will never forget a situation that happened during this intense time period. My mom and I were in a very populated mall when I received the phone call that the surgeon (from across the country) would accept me as a patient but would not be able to have an appointment available for an additional three months. This was devastating news as we were hoping to get in immediately and my mom and I sat down and bawled our eyes out right there in the middle of the busy mall. As we realized that people were staring at us we looked at each other and started to giggle and then couldn't stop laughing. To this day we laugh about this incident. Don't be afraid to step out and laugh!
I have shared my endometriosis story here on the blog and to this day I will never forget a situation that happened during this intense time period. My mom and I were in a very populated mall when I received the phone call that the surgeon (from across the country) would accept me as a patient but would not be able to have an appointment available for an additional three months. This was devastating news as we were hoping to get in immediately and my mom and I sat down and bawled our eyes out right there in the middle of the busy mall. As we realized that people were staring at us we looked at each other and started to giggle and then couldn't stop laughing. To this day we laugh about this incident. Don't be afraid to step out and laugh!
* choose to laugh at the hard and absurd of your health journey
I have had doctors and specialists tell me the most insane things and there is a time for standing up and making a declaration (like I did about that Real Housewives of Beverly Hills episode) but there is also a time for choosing to laugh at the hard and absurd.
I have had doctors and specialists tell me the most insane things and there is a time for standing up and making a declaration (like I did about that Real Housewives of Beverly Hills episode) but there is also a time for choosing to laugh at the hard and absurd.
One time, during an intense part of my health journey I had a check up with one of the doctors that I saw for routine health things. I hated seeing this doctor, but to keep some insurance requirements and because I was in the ER so often at that time I had no choice. I am not kidding when I share that during one appointment this doctor said, "so my treatment plan is working then? I told you that Lyme Disease didn't exist and all you needed was some rest in bed".
Now did I take a moment to share about Lyme Disease and advocate it in a respectful way? Yes.
BUT instead of letting this dictate my emotions for the next day or week, I simply laughed about it with friends later. As one of my friends said, "who knew that to cure Lyme and Cancer all you needed was a couple of years in bed?" Seriously, we laughed until we cried and then we did cry for a few minutes and then we made the decision to laugh some more. Don't let someone steal your joy and laughter.
Where do you find laughter? I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas! Happy Thursday friends!
If you are like me then I truly am literally in shock that it is the end of July! It seems that these past two months of summer have literally flown by. Up in the north we are still in the height of summer season with August spreading happily before us, but growing up in the south and returning to school I always feel like summer is beginning to end. A mixed bag of feelings for sure. *smile*
Last night I was talking with my mom and we were saying we couldn't believe how fast these days are going. Please slow down cozy summer days, we are truly enjoying you! I am so excited about next month (it is going to be so incredibly special with some very incredible things that I can't wait to share more about), but I just want to grab onto each day and all of the precious moments! So as we finish July... here are just a few reflections
What We're Eating this Month...
So some of you know this, but I absolutely love cooking and being in the kitchen preparing nutrious meals for those I love. During the summer (being in the north) there are TONS of fresh veggies and berries and I literally eat them by the box full. I am not even kidding. Y'all know that salads and veggies are my absolute favorite foods... so when I was at one of my favorite farms last week the owner, Kristin, started talking about edible flowers. Y'all... the combination of goodness and beauty- it was delightful. I truly hope that she decides to have a class because as we stood there and talked and sampled the different flowers I was fascinated by all that I was learning!
I have also been adding a ton of Apple Cider Vinegar into my life and the middle of summer always seems like a perfect time to add this into life. I have been mixing up the veggies and adding splashes of apple cider vinegar and lime and it has been yummy. If you are looking for easy ways to add apple cider into your life you can find a post I wrote entitled, 17 Quick and easy ways to incorporate it into your life which you can read HERE.
What I'm Reminiscing About...
.jpg "whats up wednesday (february 2025 edition)")
F114.
The Opportunity Cost of the Sun is in final edits and will be released in the upcoming months. I can't wait to take you into the stories of some people who changed my life forever.
What I'm Loving...
My morning walk/runs and all of the swimming.
Y'all I thrive in the outdoor adventures... and am trying to figure out how to replicate this when the weather turns cold in just a few months and it is to icy and freezing to be outside. I don't love going to the gym... and it is expensive to go to the mountains to ski all the time... if you have any suggestions please send them my way because this is already on my mind.
Creating, my graduate class, writing, edits, speaking, some academic proposals, and just a lot of behind the scenes personal things.
What I'm Dreading...
Honestly absolutely nothing.
What I'm Working on...
Right now everything to do with editing as I prepare to go to France to speak in two weeks. Oh my word- it is just amazing and slightly overwhelming that this will be happening in TWO WEEKS.
What I'm Thankful for...
Sacred behind the scenes moments of beauty in so many different ways.
What I'm Excited About...
The opportunity to head back to France... incredibly honored in so many different ways. I can't wait to take y'all along!
What I'm Watching/Reading...
Lots and lots of graduate books and history courses as I am honored to be an adjunct again this upcoming semester. In addition to that though... this book...
I am working my way through this one again. I have said this almost at nauseum but there has not been a book that has impacted my faith more over the last 5 years then this book. I need to do an entire blog post on why, but for now, my tender heart will just say it has been a lifeline in the dark over the last 6 years and continues to encourage me each and everyday (I read a tiny bit every day). You can find it HERE.
What I'm Listening To...
The quiet and silence along with the gentle lapping waters of the lake on the shore. It has been one of the most refreshing things this summer.
What I'm Doing This Weekend...
I am so excited! My sister comes today and it will be so wonderful to have her here!
Happy Wednesday friends!
Happy Tuesday friends! I am so excited to share about a new reel that I have created all about money questions for a Viking River Cruise! Some of the most asked questions that I receive about our amazing Rhône River Cruise with Viking all have to do with money. I completely understand. We are living in a very difficult financial time and where and what you spend your money on is extremely important!
I wanted to create a reel all about answering the most asked questions that I receive! Some of the questions that I have answered include:
* What is the cost compared to other Rhône River Cruises?
*Is the cost of Viking worth it?
*Are excursions included?
*What is the cost of additional excursions?
*Are transfers included?
*How to save money on a Viking River Cruise
*How much spending money to bring?
And MORE!
You can watch, comment, and like it HERE!
Let me know if you have any questions! Happy Tuesday friends!
five star rated all about money market accounts/personal finance powerpoint with guided notes/caravan sonnet shoppe on teachers pay teachers
July 28, 2025
Happy Monday friends! I hope that you have had a wonderful weekend! Today I am excited to share about a NEW expanded and updated resource available in the shop! The FIVE STAR RATED All About Money Markets Powerpoint with Guided Notes is NOW available!
If you would like to go directly to this resource you can click HERE!
This resource contains 12 Powerpoint Slides with colorful, animated, engaging, and educational sections all about money markets! This Powerpoint specifically explains pros and cons of money market accounts, misconceptions, and describes what a money market account is.
This Powerpoint Presentation contains practical and helpful information to help students understand the basic principals of savings accounts which is a national requirement for a financial literacy/personal finance class and also required by many state standards. It will also help you in your discussion of this topic!
*Powerpoint can be easily converted into Google Slides for your convenience
**Powerpoint can be edited to fit the needs of your classroom!
Powerpoint contains the following information:
* Basic Money Market Definition
* Pros of Money Markets
* Cons of Money Markets
* Misconceptions of Money Market Accounts
* Picture on Savings and how much you need to save for retirement
* and more!
This resources includes:
* PowerPoint
* Guided Notes
Guided Notes come with three options:
(1) Fill in the Blank Notes (with answer key)
(2) One Slide a Page with Note Space Below
(3) Multiple Slides a Page with Mini Note Sections to the Right
The cost of this resource is only $2.50(!!) and it can be easily used every year! With 12 powerpoint slides with guided notes it is a unique resource that can be used every year for your classroom needs!
If you would like to purchase this resource you can find it HERE! This resource is also included in the Savings Accounts Unit Bundle! Interested in Finding out More About the Savings Account Bundle? Click HERE!
Did you know that you can receive TPT credit to use on future purchases? Simply go to your My Purchases page where beside each purchase you will see a "Provide Feedback" button. Simply click this and you will be taken to a page where you can give a quick rating and leave a short comment for the product. Each time you give feedback, TPT gives you feedback credits that you use to lower the cost of your future purchases. Your feedback is extremely helpful to me and for others so I appreciate your time in doing this!!
Want to find out about ALL of my New Products or Information about Sales? Look for the green star next to my store logo and click it to become a follower! You will now receive email updates about my shoppe!
Thank you so much for all of your support of the shoppe! If you would like to check out the shoppe you can find it HERE! Thank you again friends! Happy Monday!
Happy Sunday friends! I hope you are having a wonderful weekend.
Today's sunday scripture is a verse that has brought significant encouragement and inspiration to me over the last few months. I heard this verse in this translation in a sermon and it has constantly been sticking with me.
It is interesting because with this verse it uses the word "continually". If you are saying something "continually" you are talking about it a LOT. For me I started realizing that sometimes am tempted to talk about the problem that I see, not- continually talking about God who is taking pleasure in the prosperity of his children. This has truly been reframing my mindset and making me pause before I am speaking words.
I am naturally a very upbeat and positive person. Co-workers over the years have affectionally nicknamed me "Pollyanna". But... it is humbling to realize how often I may speak negatively about something and speak that instead of life giving words of hope and truth. I heard a sermon with this verse and it made me stop. I started realizing throughout the day that I was not continually speaking the truth of this scripture. It has truly been something that has made me pause. Our words are so important. I have written about this in different ways on the blog before and if you would like to go back and read some of those posts you can find them here:
I hope that this encourages you to pause today friends in the different situations and circumstances you are facing just like it did for me. Continue to speak victory and life over your situations, continually remembering that God takes pleasure in prospering you.
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To download and use for personal/church use, right click on the image and save to computer and print on thick cardstock or photo paper. Please tag @rebeccaannvandemark (on IG) or @caravansonnet (on pinterest or twitter) when sharing on social media.
Looking for past Sunday Scripture Posts? Click HERE!
five star rated equal pay day lesson plans / caravan sonnet shoppe / teachers pay teachers
July 26, 2025
Happy Saturday friends! Today I am so excited to share more about the 5 Star Rated Equal Pay Day Lesson Plans and Cases resource that is available in the shop!
This FIVE STAR RATED resource has received the most wonderful reviews including:
It was an amazing resource. It challenged them to the best of their ability.
// Morgan - Used in 9th-12th Grades //
Good resource to use!
// Karen- Used in 12th Grade //
So today I wanted to share a bit more about this amazing resource with you! You can find this resource HERE ! Looking for the entire equal pay bundle? Click HERE!
Based on the census from 2010 the wage gap continues and has changed little in the last century. Many Women and people of color are segregated into low-paying jobs, with more than half of all women workers holding sales, clerical, and service jobs. Most students are not aware of this or how this affects their lives as they consider workforce careers and their budget and this simple and yet powerful Lesson Plan/Teachers Guide can bring this topic alive!
I created this educational 5 page (3 page Lesson Plan guide and 2 Page Specific Case Guide) specifically for Equal Pay Day. I had searched for one specific to this and couldn't find one so I hope that this can help another teacher!
Throughout this lesson plan /teacher guide you will find a complete lesson plan with different state and national standards, beginning ideas to start your class off, a suggestion of a lecture/powerpoint, activity ideas, discussion ideas, and even suggested readings/resources for you to pick and choose from. While this isn’t a “be all and end all” for any class, I hope that this will be a helpful resource that you can use as a way to engage with your students, foster creativity and critical thinking in your classroom, while coming alongside the requirements of specific state and test standards.
This resources includes:
* Examples of Application State Standards (Examples from Around the United States)
* Objectives
* Opening Idea/Seat Work/Bell Work/Beginning Discussion Ideas:
* Lecture Powerpoint Suggestion (Available in the Shoppe!)
* 4 Different Activity Ideas
* Follow Up/Conclusion Activity
* Additional Resources/Recommended Books for Reading
This resources includes:
Word Lesson Plan/Teachers Guide
2 Page Case Synopsis of Major Cases relating to Equal Pay
To Purchase this amazing resource click HERE!
Thank you again so much for all of your support of my shop! I am so grateful!! Happy Saturday friends!
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