a visit to the ausable marsh wildlife management area and tender reflections from this area // peru, new york
October 23, 2024
This past weekend we headed out for a brief adventure outside. As some of you know, I haven't been able to do all of the fall hiking and adventuring that I love to do at this time of year, because I seriously hurt my back a couple of weeks ago. And while I was still in a lot of pain the day was absolutely beautiful and I was so thankful to see that beauty up close.
We headed back to a place that holds special significance for me as some of you who have been around the blog for a longtime will know. Our trip to the Ausabale Marsh Wildlife Management Area in 2013 was... tender. By this point in my health journey I was struggling to walk more than a few feet alone and my precious dad was holding me up. The pictures have some laughter in them, but behind the scenes there was a lot of fear as I had just been diagnosed with Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease and we knew that something was seriously wrong. I had absolutely no idea the journey that was in front of me to walk but what I do remember that day most of all is that my precious father kept speaking words of life and truth and hope into my situation (which he did for my whole life and throughout the years of being sick in the darkest of moments).
As I held onto my dad tightly struggling to have the effort to walk even a few feet, but dad kept whispering words of encouragement saying things like, "The Lord is going to Heal You", "You are going to run and not faint", "You have good things in front of you"... and so much more.
Seven years later, when healing was in full force, in the Spring of 2020 and when the world was in lockdown, my mom and I headed back to this area to get outside nearly everyday. We would walk the sandy beaches and quietly breathe in the fresh air outside with no one around. It was during these visits that we prayerfully considered what we should do and knew that the Lord was leading to go back to Tennessee. On a very specific walk there my mom said, "You should apply for teaching jobs" which was of course a dream, but I felt an impossible one after so many years of being outside the classroom. I looked at her skeptically and she said, "Go for it"... and sure enough ... my beautiful mom was right and the Lord opened the door to the most incredible opportunity.
Announcing and going back into teaching was one of the most beautiful full circle moments here on Caravan Sonnet and I still have tears at the Lord's goodness. That year... still leaves me speechless.
So whenever we head back to this area... it is always a tender spot filled with lots of precious memories that are deep treasures in my heart. There are of course new things that we are praying about, and new adventures in front and being back in this area was a tender reminder of how the Lord has answered miraculously in the past and will answer again.
I hope that you are having a wonderful Wednesday friends! The beauty that surrounded us was peaceful and I hope that these pictures bring a sense of beauty to your day!
how to read your paycheck stub // personal finance powerpoint with guided notes // caravan sonnet shoppe at teachers pay teachers
October 21, 2024
Happy Monday friends! I am so excited to share with y'all another updated and expanded resource now available in the caravan sonnet shoppe at teachers pay teachers! This is a resource for personal finance teachers at the high school or college level. This resource is all about teaching how to read a paycheck stub.
This resource Contains 5 Powerpoint Slides with colorful, animated, engaging, and educational sections on How to Read Your Paycheck and comes with guided notes! This Powerpoint Presentation contains practical and helpful information to help students understand their paycheck stubs. It also helps students to make steps to help them choose career paths that are right for them. It will also help you in your discussion of this topic!
This resource will be particularly helpful for all different students who may be coming from a variety of income backgrounds!
This powerpoint is specifically helpful if you are wanting to dive deeper into this financial aspect of this topic, need a substitute filler around this time period or a way to sensitively introduce the concept of comparing salaried vs hourly rates for a later unit. However you are using this- this will be a way to help students (and their families!) think about this subject in new ways and help this come alive for your students. This resource will help bring creative engagement to your lectures!
This resource includes the following topics:
* How to Read Your Paycheck
* Things Included on Your Paycheck
* Additional Items that May be on Your Paycheck
* Common Abbreviations that May Appear on Your Paycheck
and more!!
Guided/Scaffolded 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 the powerpoint with these three options of guided notes is only $2.00 (!!) and can be used every year for your classroom needs! If you would like to purchase this powerpoint with guided notes resource you can find it HERE!
If you would prefer to purchase this resource in a bundle you can find this resource in the following unit bundles:
This resource (like all of the financial resources in the shop) can be found in the Personal Finance Semester Bundle HERE!
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 so much for a wonderful first couple of weeks of October in the shoppe! I am so thankful and blessed! This is truly an incredible blessing to see how many things are helping teachers and helping students!! If you haven't had a chance, would you take a moment to leave a review for your purchase? These reviews are a HUGE help to shop owners at TPT!
Thank you again for ALL of your support of my shoppe!
The workplace should be a safe environment, but health hazards can exist in any job, from office settings to industrial sites. Whether it's repetitive strain injuries from sitting at a desk all day or more severe risks like exposure to hazardous chemicals in a factory, every employee needs to be proactive about avoiding potential dangers. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe and protect your health at work.
Ergonomics Matter
One of the most common health issues in office settings is poor ergonomics. Spending long hours at a desk can lead to back pain, neck strain, and carpal tunnel syndrome if your workstation isn’t set up properly. To avoid these problems, ensure that your chair, desk, and computer are adjusted to support a healthy posture.
* Chair: Choose a chair that supports your lower back and allows your feet to rest flat on the floor. Your thighs should be parallel to the floor, and your arms should be at a 90-degree angle while typing.
* Monitor: Position your monitor at eye level so that you don’t have to tilt your head up or down, which can lead to neck strain.
* Breaks: Take frequent breaks to stand, stretch, and move around. Sitting in one position for extended periods can lead to stiffness and reduce circulation.
Know Your Workplace Hazards
Every industry comes with its own set of health risks. If you work in a field that involves physical labor, such as construction or manufacturing, understanding the specific hazards of your environment is crucial. This includes knowing how to handle heavy machinery, identifying potential fire hazards, and using personal protective equipment (PPE) like helmets, gloves, or safety glasses when necessary.
Even in less physically demanding environments like healthcare or retail, you may encounter risks like exposure to infectious diseases or dealing with hazardous substances. Make sure to follow all safety protocols and receive proper training on how to mitigate these risks.
Practice Proper Lifting Techniques
Lifting heavy objects is another common cause of workplace injuries, particularly in jobs that require manual labor. Back injuries from improper lifting techniques can be serious and long-lasting, so it’s essential to lift safely.
When lifting, always bend at your knees and keep your back straight, using the strength in your legs to lift the load. Avoid twisting your body while carrying something heavy, and if the load is too much, don’t hesitate to ask for help or use a lifting device.
Prioritize Mental Health
Health hazards aren’t just physical. Stress, anxiety, and burnout can have a significant impact on your mental well-being, leading to reduced productivity and overall job satisfaction. Take steps to manage your mental health at work by setting clear boundaries, taking regular breaks, and seeking support when needed. A supportive work environment that encourages open communication can help alleviate some of these stressors.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to your supervisor about workload adjustments or explore resources like employee assistance programs. Mental health is just as important as physical safety in the workplace.
Know When to Seek Legal Help
In some cases, workplace health hazards result from negligence or unsafe working conditions. If you believe your employer is not providing a safe environment or if you've been injured at work, you may need legal assistance to protect your rights. For situations like this, it's best to contact the law office here to discuss your options and ensure that your health and safety are prioritized.
Conclusion
Avoiding health hazards at work requires awareness, preparation, and proactive measures. By taking care of your physical and mental well-being, practicing good ergonomics, understanding workplace risks, and knowing when to seek legal advice, you can protect yourself from harm and maintain a safe working environment. Whether you're in an office or a more hazardous setting, your health should always come first.
*contributed post*
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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!
I am so excited to share with y'all more about some of the Christmas 2024 junk journal collection that is available in the shop! You can go directly to this section of listings HERE!
This specific Santa Christmas junk journal was so adorable to create! I loved the theme of the papers that we chose, the colors, and the little details! I smile each time that I look at this cover- it is just so fun!
This cozy bit key chain junk journal is the perfect way to keep track and treasure the magic ordinary of each day and this scrapbook is perfect for those looking for a unique and legacy type gift of precious holiday memories!
Inspired by the precious memories of twinkling lights, cozy snowy weather, christmas music, whimsical memories of caroling, under the winter stars, the smells of baking, and joy at new beginnings, this precious Santa Christmas mini junk journal is the perfect gift for anyone!
Adorned on a special clip that can attach to a key ring, backpack, purse, journal, photo album and so much more, these mini junk journals are the perfect size.
.jpg "santa christmas junk journal")
Did you know that these could also make wonderful keepsake Christmas Ornaments on your holiday tree each year too?!? This picture from above is showing an example of how this could look from our Holiday Craft Fair last year!
Resting at 2x2 this chunky journal is a perfectly curated collection of rare sweet vintage and distinctive modern materials to inspire hope and joy in every area of your life!
This heirloom treasure comes with:
//1 2x2 junk journal that contains:
//30+ pages of quality and beautiful paper
//9+ pieces of vintage and bespoke ribbon pieces from around the world
//handmade lace from an established generational American factory
//1-3 bulb clasps
//1-3 vintage buttons from times of old
//1 mini envelope with a mini card
//1 mini paperclip
//1 claw clasp for attaching to the owners preference
//unique vintage or bespoke ephemera on the front
//special surprise goodies
And more...
Thank you again for your support of the shop! It is truly a blessing to my mom and I who run it!
You can find the entire Christmas collection of junk journals HERE and so many others in the shop HERE!
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.jpg "point of view: all adirondack fall drives should end at lake champlain")
Happy Thursday friends! Today I am so excited to share that I shared an instagram reel over on IG yesterday all about beautiful fall drives in the adirondacks over to Lake Champlain!! You can watch it by clicking HERE!
I created a poll that takes two seconds to answer as a fun addition. I would love to hear your thoughts!
.jpg "point of view: all adirondack fall drives should end at lake champlain")
You may wonder why I mention the instagram reels that I create and why it matters about watching, liking, saving, commenting, and sharing my reels. I wouldn't know about this either if social media wasn't part of my job, but each time that you watch one of my reels, like them, comment on them share them or save them I make a small commission which adds up to help me. It doesn't cost you anything, but it does help me. THANK YOU! Just watching a reel and liking it are huge helps!! Thank you again for everything friends! Happy Fall- I hope you enjoy the small clips into our upstate new york world.
Happy Tuesday friends! I hope your week is going well! I am still overwhelmed by the excitement from my post in August all about Creative Reuse shops and reviewing these places! I am so excited that y'all are so excited about this travel series! These stores are truly a treasure trove for artists, teachers, creators, homeschool and creative mamas, and anyone who loves to create. You can find a map of all of the shops HERE!
If you would like to know just basic facts about the this shop please just scroll down to the bottom of the post where I will be sharing basic information to help those who want to know more specifics about each of the creative reuse shops and some tips from each store!
.jpg "scrap rva creative reuse shop // richmond, virginia")
Today I am sharing more about SCRAP RVA which is located in Richmond, Virginia. Mom and I stopped there last December on the way down to visit my sister in South Carolina for Christmas.
To be honest this store experience was our least favorite of all of the creative reuse shops we have visited. Ugh. I hate saying that because I don't ever like to give "negative" reviews, but I also always want to be honest about the travel experiences here on the blog. It wasn't awful by any means, but unfortunately the prices and the employees rudeness was something that just didn't set the best "tone" for a happy creative shopping experience. Scrap RVA just had a few "quirks" that the other stores that we have been to didn't have.
I should say that this has was very small compared to the other Scrap reuse stores that we have visited. In saying that though I did feel that every single inch of the space was used. Even in the above picture in the window you can see that they have truly used the space that they have. BUT... they have recently just closed this space and are moving to a new space! Congratulations to SCRAP RVA!
So about the negative quirks.... First, this shop was that this was by far the most expensive creative reuse shop that we have been to (which is saying something since we have visited several in big cities). For example a full roll of crafting ribbon at other places we have been to ranges from $.50 cents to maybe $2.00 and the prices here for full ribbons were starting at the $3.00-$6.00 mark.
Another example was of some old/vintage postcards and pictures. At various shops we have been to the postcards/pictures were ranging from a few cents to approximately $.25cents- these were starting at a $1.00. All of these little things just add up when you are a consumer, so while there were a lot of really nice things the prices were just way more than we have experienced before.
To add to this- there is no negotiating to be found (at least this was our experience) at Scrap RVA. Using the ribbon example- mom and I found a set of "full" ribbon rolls that we honestly loved. I am estimating that there were probably about 15-20 yards of ribbon on what was marked as a 50 yard roll of ribbon on the cover. There were 6 of them and they each were marked $6.00 which would have totaled $30. Plus we had found other ribbons that we loved that only had a couple of yards each but were marked "full ribbons" and started at $3.00 and $4.00. Our total ribbon if we bought all of them was looking at about $50. In other creative reuse shops we have been to when asking if we could take the "lot" of everything we have always been given substantial discounts. In fact another creative reuse shop we visited on this same trip ended up going into the back of the store and bringing out more ribbon and giving us an entire box for free. But when we asked about a discount of any kind the employee grew upset with us for even asking this. We ended up putting everything back and only purchasing one roll of ribbon.
This last point is something that I feel is really important to point out. If we lived in Richmond we would probably go back sometimes but the prices would deter us from visiting often. I would also say that we wouldn't travel back there like we would for some of the other shops simply because of this point and this is important for those who are looking for affordable crafting deals in this economy.
Second, the last quirk was unfortunately the employees rudeness. There were several examples, but I am just going to say that I think the people that worked there were just having a bad day. Maybe it was the holidays? Maybe it was something else? Either way ... it just appeared that everyone was having a rough day that worked there by the way that they treated people.
Also- unfortunately while this wouldn't affect shopping, the next story does affect me showing you pictures. Since 2022 and starting to visit these shops I have asked in each shop I have been in if I could snap a few pictures of the inside because I knew that I wanted to do this travel series in the future.
At every single place I have been people have told me to take as many pictures as I wanted and share more of their personal stories and the shop stories. It has been a really neat experience to hear how people have invested their time into the creative arena. Unfortunately this was not the case here at Scrap RVA.
The employee that I asked at Scrap RVA though was completely against this. In fact it became extremely awkward because she started telling me that if I was interested in starting a similar shop in the area (which I had shared that I was from NY so I was not out to "compete") that I needed to go through "proper channels" and that I couldn't take pictures. It was the oddest thing and when I tried to explain more and show my blog and instagram she insisted that I not take any pictures. Later on when I had my phone out (because my sister was texting me) she came over and accused me of taking pictures which I was not.
Now I have been a travel blogger long enough and told so many quirky stories here on the blog that I know that everyone can have an "off day". Perhaps we just happened to land on that day for the two employees/volunteers that were in there? Perhaps the prices there are something that fit the area? I don't know... it was just not though the best experience and I am sad to say that I couldn't recommend it based on the prices and the employees- which I hate saying.
.jpg "scrap rva creative reuse shop // richmond, virginia")
I did find this picture above (not my property) online to give you a glance at the store... but honestly couldn't find that many pictures- even on their website. (They do have an instagram which I will share below for more information.)
So while this was not the "best" experience, I still do believe strongly in the creative reuse shops. You can always find some treasures if you really look hard and we did walk out with 3 items.
......SCRAP RVA CREATIVE REUSE SHOP INFORMATION......
LOCATION:
Richmond, Virginia
HOURS FOR SHOPPING:
Tuesday- Sunday, 11-6 (closed Mondays)
TYPE OF SHOP:
Total craft experience: numerous items for crafting and creating art of any and all kind
YEAR OPENED:
2008 (some early starts)/ 2016- read history HERE
MISSION:
Non Profit Organization promoting sustainability and community by redistributing reclaimed materials!
KEY DISTINCTIVES:
*none noted*
COST:
Compared to other shops we have tried and visited, the prices were extremely more expensive - even compared to shops around the country that exist in large and expensive cities.
PARKING:
Very difficult- street parking only - but they have just moved so this might be different?
CROWDED?:
It was busy when we were there.
DISABILITY FRIENDY?:
The old shop would have been a bit difficult to navigate with a wheelchair, but I will update if we visit the new shop.
Thank you so much for reading today friends! Please let me know if you have any questions about Creative Reuse Shops or the SCRAP RVA Specifically! I am happy to answer and can't wait to hear about your creative reuse shop adventures! And again, if you would like to read about other Creative Reuse Shops that I have written about on the blog click HERE or click on the links below:
Have a wonderful day friends!
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