Schoolroom Swag

Elementary Teacher

Having fun in the classroom and "balancing" life!

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

My TPT Dollar Store and a 200 follower freebie


Two blogs in a week! Whoa! Down girl! I may need a nap after I finish this! I wrote in my last post that from now on everything at my TPT store is $1. (So now you don't need to get dressed up to go shopping.) (:  I did that because I was getting stressed out about this whole blogging/selling world. By the end of the school year in May my blood pressure was up, I wasn't sleeping, and my husband and I were barely speaking more than 5 words to each other. Then summer came, and I've been spending a lot of time following blogs and gaining followers. Which is great, don't get me wrong. But I think I was in it for the wrong reasons. I wanted to learn from all of you, and I have, and am SO grateful. But I also wanted to sell. Don't we all? 

 I knew I was getting obsessive and materialistic about the whole thing, and  I've been trying to think of ways to break that negative pattern. I was sitting in church on Sunday, and my Pastor, Jeff Gunn, ( I can't help it- he needs a little shout out- he's awesome.) had the best sermon ever. He might as well have started it "Ann, ......". It was so good. It was about running into a brick wall, and  the things in life that make you lose focus and burn out. He had us write down 3 or 5 things that take up our time and take us away from other things that are more important. The only thing I could think of was my obsessive selling/blogging behavior. Creating and reading your posts, and learning, (and even selling) are important and worthwhile. But I was truly freaking out about it. And I knew my obsession with selling had to stop, and the only way to overcome it was to give. I can't give all my stuff away, simply because I use graphics that I have to buy, and I want to cover the cost of those. But if I sell them for a dollar, they are more affordable for everyone, and I feel like I'm helping out all of us who aren't exactly getting rich teaching. I'm hoping by doing this that they are more user-friendly and able to help more people.  Look at the great things people like Amy Lemons and Deanna Jump and MANY others do with their profits. I want to do that. But just in a different way.

I really value all of your blogs. I do. I have learned so much, and I am going to continue to read yours, follow you all, and write my own. I'm a better teacher for it, I think. But in order to make it all fun again, I need to let go, and this is my way to do it. I hope it helps all of you, and doesn't hurt you. I don't think it will, because there are such GREAT products out there, no one is going to stop buying from the rest of you. It's not like people are going to come flocking to my store. It's just going to take the pressure off me, and allow me to give back, and possibly use my talents to glorify God. I'm not trying to devalue anyone's work, or use it as a gimmick. So I would LOVE to hear what you think about this. For better or for worse. Please leave me a comment and let me know. I appreciate it. 

Phew. I was actually really nervous about writing this. I feel like I just went to confession. Although I'm not Catholic, so I'm not really sure how that feels. 

Ok, now on to a freebie. This part really IS a gimmick. I'm quickly approaching 200 followers. So for anyone who follows me and my store at TPT, leave me a message below telling me that you did (I'll believe you. And even if I didn't, I don't know how to check.)and I will send you whatever product from my store you want. Just let me know which one, and leave me your email address.
As always, thanks for reading.

 Glitter Words
[Glitterfy.com - *Glitter Words*]

64 comments:

  1. Oh ann. I understand where you are coming from. At times, I find myself a bit consumed by the whole thing too. I find your spirit and generosity quite inspiring.
    I have just jumped on as your newest follower. I hope you reach 200 and that you continue to be inspired by teaching blogs :)
    I love the look of Time began in a Garden.
    Brooke
    b_beynon@hotmail.com
    Teachable Moments

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    Replies
    1. Thank you so much Brooke. I loved your response. I hope you enjoy your freebie. I just emailed it to you!
      ann

      Delete
  2. Hi Ann,

    You need to do what makes you feel better. I am a follower of your blog and store, but no worries about sending me anything, I have them all! Your work is great!

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    1. Thank you so much, Rachel! I really appreciate it so much.

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  3. Ann,
    Thanks for stopping by my blog. I totally understand what you are saying. I started my blog about a year ago but was overwhelmed by life and I could kick myself for not building up my "business" to help my family. But I figure whatever I get out of it, I get out of it. No need to send me a thing. I follow both your TpT and your blog.

    Lorena

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    1. Thank you Lorena. I really appreciate your kind words.

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  4. I think your sentiments are right on! I'm a new follower of both your blog and TPT store.
    I particularly like your Time Began in a Garden
    packet.

    amelias.schaeffer@gmail.com

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    1. Thanks Amelia! I hope you enjoy your unit. I just sent it to you! THanks for following!
      ann

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  5. Ann- I could have written this myself! My faith is an integral part of my life and I daily ask God for direction. I thank you for being so open and for sharing! Your post has encouraged and inspired me! I am off to check out your store! Lauren
    Teacher Mom of 3

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    1. Thank you Teacher Mom! I loved what you had to say, and that you work in a Christian school, too! Nice to meet you! (: Let me know which freebie you would like!
      ann

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  6. Hi Ann- me again! I noticed in your profile that you also teach in a Christian school. I do too (in MD) and have not "met" anyone else in the blogging world who does until now! Lauren

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  7. I follow your blog and TPT store. Happy 200 followers a little early. I would love to receive Puddles of Fun. Thank you so much!
    lraines78@gmail.com

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    1. Thanks Lori! I just sent you your freebie!
      ann

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  8. I too have found myself getting obsessive about reading all of the blogs posted, and I just started. I love your blog and follow your TPT store.
    I like the ChickaChicka BoomBomm Decorate your classroom packet.
    Alittlemisstay@gmail.com

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    1. Thank you Little Miss! I just sent you your freebie! Good luck to you! I'll go check out your blog!
      ann

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  9. I agree you have to find a balance with the blog world and life. Our faith definitely should come first. I commend you for writing this post. :)
    I follow your blog and TPT store. I really like your Time Began in a Garden.

    Elizabeth
    liz_lovelace@yahoo.com
    The First Grade Jungle Room

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    Replies
    1. Check your email, Liz. I just sent you your freebie! Thank you for your comment! Enjoy your unit!
      ann

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  10. Hi Ann - I just started blogging and am finding myself being obsessive over the entire thing - wanting to make sure I post every day, wanting to start my own store, create things, finding clipart's, etc etc etc. Thank you for posting about your feelings, as it's making me reflect upon my own.

    Sara
    Miss V's Busy Bees

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Sara! Let me know if you want a freebie- I'll email it to you!
      ann

      Delete
  11. Ann,

    What a great post. I started blogging and selling in April and am still struggling to find a balance between business and home. When it comes down to it, nothing is more important than faith and family. I applaud and respect your choice.

    Have a great 4th of July!

    Nicole

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    1. Hey Nicole
      I told my husband that your responded with a comment, and it's like having a celebrity stop by. I've told you before, I love your writing, it's so funny, and you always have great stuff to share. So thank you for commenting and making my day! Hey- do you want a freebie??!
      ann

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  12. Ann~
    I have been blogging for about 2 months. I follow your blog & TpT store. You have some great products to offer. I like Time Began in a Garden. I know how easy it can be to get swept up in everything there is out there. I'm still working on finding a way to balance it all.
    Storie
    atozscrapbook@gmail.com
    Stories by Storie

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    1. Thanks so much Storie! I sent you the unit, I hope it's useful!
      ann

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  13. Hi! I'm a new follower of your blog and TPT store. I am new to the blogging and TPT world, but looks like you are doing great! What a milestone... 200 followers!
    Congratulations!

    Kelly
    Kelly_teach@msn.com
    htpp://.kellyteach.blogspot.com

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    1. Thanks Kelly! I just sent you a freebie. You didn't tell me which you wanted, so I just picked one! Go check it out!
      ann

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  14. Your blog post is so true! I"m new to the blogging world, and it has become consuming already!

    Congrats on almost 200 followers! I follow your blog and your TPT store and would love your Farming Fun unit!

    Thanks for the give away!

    Ashley
    arclark2012@gmail.com

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    1. Thanks Ashley! I just sent you your freebie! Enjoy!
      ann

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  15. The follower part shows 199!! Blogging IS addicting! I think it's great that you're doing what you're doing! I follow your blog and your Tpt store! Your Time Began in A Garden would be a great addition to my plant unit for the spring! Thanks for sharing your talent!! :o)

    Cindy
    ccfirstteacher@gmail.com

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    1. Hi Cindy
      Thank you for your comment. I appreciate it. I just sent you your freebie! Hope you like it!
      ann

      Delete
  16. I can relate to so much of what you just wrote! It is definitely an addiction for me!

    Thanks for the giveaway! I would love the Time Began in a Garden.

    imgoingfirst@gmail.com

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    1. Thank you for your comment and for being a follower! I just sent you your freebie!
      ann

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  17. Thanks for your work! I would love Time Began in a Garden!

    kinderdots@gmail.com

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    1. Thanks Denise! I just sent you your freebie! Enjoy!
      ann

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  18. Hey Ann...I totally feel you...I drafted a blog post called "True Confessions" I haven't posted it yet...don't know if I will, but one of the other bloggers got to like 500 or something after like 2 months or something and I got all depressed and sad. I looked at my then 17 followers and thought this is so sad. Anyway...I started to feel as though I was in 6th grade again, trying to win my way into the inner circle of cool bloggy people and I just about had a meltdown. Then I tood a step back and looked at all the wonderful things I have in my life...amazing husband, beautiful little girl, great things coming in the future and threw my hands up...I was done worrying about it and feeling sorry for myself. It just so happend that I already had my name in with a few bloggers and have gained some followers (thank you to all of them) in the last week, but yeah, I'm worn out from checking to see if I have a new follower every 5 minutes! Have a great day!

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    1. Sarah
      I loved your response. It was so funny and genuine. Thank you for that. The inner circle of cool bloggy people line cracked me up. And checking your blog every 5 minutes. So sad and true, for me, too. Hey, I don't know your email address, and I'd love to send you a freebie if you want one. Thanks again and ENJOY the rest of your summer!
      ann

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  19. I feel ya!!! :) I was spending so much time thinking about units and activities and now I just work when I'm "inspired"... I can't force myself!!
    BTW, it's nice to see that you live in Phoenix!!
    I live and teach here too!!
    Yay to AZ teachers!
    ❤ Sandra
    Sweet Times in First
    sweettimesinfirst@gmail.com

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    1. hey my fellow Arizonian!!! Thanks for the comment! I appreciate it!
      ann

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  20. I think what you are doing is wonderful. T recently found your blog and love it so much! Thanks so much for what you are doing! I follow you and your store and I would LOVE to have Time Began in a Garden. Thanks again and I will defintely be buying more items from your store.

    delanej23460@aol.com

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    1. Thank you Delaney! I appreciate it! I just sent you your freebie! I hope you enjoy it!
      ann

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  21. This is great! I'm sorry to say I haven't been watching my blogs lately, but I like your blog and think you are great! I love TPT and added you to my list of followers. This fall I'm doing a unit that I could use the Chicka Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Decorate Your Classroom unit for!!
    Thanks again!
    dianebode@mediacombb.net

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    1. Thank you Diane! I really appreciate your comment! Have fun with the unit-I just emailed it to you! Enjoy your summer!
      ann

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  22. I can tell from reading your blog that you are a very talented and creative teacher. Life is too short and family time is too precious not to spend with your loved ones. That being said I do follow you on TPT and would love your Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Decorate Your Room.

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    1. Hi Candace! Thank you so much! I would love to send you the unit, but I don't have your email address. Come back and give it to me and I will be glad to email you your freebie!
      Ann

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  23. Oh I love your blog! You sound just like me. :o) I follow you and your store. I am moving to a new grade this year and I would LOVE to try your Puddles of Fun unit. Thank you SO much for such a great unit! :o)

    Jennifer
    jennkeys @ gmail . com

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    1. Hi Jennifer
      Thans for following me. I appreciate it. I just sent you your freebie. Enjoy it!

      Delete
  24. I left you something on my blog, even though you are just barely over the limit. Go check it out! I love your blog!

    Learning With Susie Q

    susieqsclass@gmail.com

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    1. Hi Susie Thank you for your comment! I will go check it out as soon as I'm done here!
      I sent you a freebie- I hope you like it!
      ann

      Delete
  25. You are a blessing to others by following that God puts on your heart. I would love to have your Puddles of Fun unit.
    Thanks,
    Karen
    kltcarley@gmail.com

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Karen! I just sent you your freebie! Enjoy!
      ann

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  26. I am your newest follower! Thanks for the insight! I nominated you for an award!\Fancy Free in Fourth


    Thanks for sharing!

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    1. Thanks Layla!!! I really appreciate it!
      ann

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  27. I totally understand where you're coming from! And I'm so happy to read all of the positive comments you've gotten! Your "Time Began In a Garden" unit looks fabulous and I'd love to use it with my kinders. Thank you!

    Jennifer @ Herding Kats In Kindergarten
    ingen77@yahoo.com

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Jennifer
      Just sent you your freebie. Hope you like it!
      ann

      Delete
  28. You are so very sweet Ann. I started blogging just a month before you. I have followed you from the beginning (I think I was your first follower :)). I am also an Arizona teacher (Scottsdale). What you wrote is so true. You really have to have balance and if blogging/selling is coming between you and your family time you have to cut back and make it fit into your life. Life is a process, not a race. Your projects are awesome. You have done a beautiful job. I have nominated you for some blog awards on my blog (I was awarded three and wanted to recognize some awesome women for others to go visit). Thanks for sharing.
    Pamela
    First Class Teacher

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    1. Thanks Pamela
      You were my first follower, and I'll always have a special place in my heart for you. (: Thank you so much for the nominations ! I really appreciate it! I've always loved your blog. Did you go to the AZ meetup? I didn't go. I was home with my kids.
      ann

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  29. Thank you so much for being so generous! There are so many times I am sitting in church and feel like my pastor is speaking right to me also! I love those moments! :) I would love your Time Began in a Garden Unit if I am not to late for the freebie! Thanks again!

    delightedinsecond@gmail.com
    Delighted in Second
    Hope you will join my $20 TPT gift certificate giveaway!

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    1. Hi again Jennifer!
      Just sent you your freebie. Hope you can use it.
      ann

      Delete
  30. Thank you for your inspiring words. I too need to rethink the way I spend my time. Family and faith should always come first.
    Amy
    Where Seconds Count 2nd grade blog

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    1. Hey Amy, send me your email address and I'll send you a freebie! I can't find it on your website, and the comment button wasn't working.
      ann

      Delete
  31. Hi Ann! I just came across your blog, and I wanted to share how refreshing I found it. I haven't been in the bloggy world very long, but I find learning from other teachers to be the most rewarding part of it. =) Stop by sometime:
    http://cantmakethisstuffup-hmichaud.blogspot.com/

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  32. Hi Ann!
    I just recently started following both your blow & store and I love your attitude! I love reading everyone's blogs and learning new ideas!!
    Pam
    Pspetralia@verizon.net

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    1. If I'm not too late for the freebie I would love the chicka chicka boom boom unit. That will be my first unit this fall!

      Delete
  33. I think $1 is a fabulous price, but I did not create the items. I think some people base their amounts of money on the time they spend on them. It definitely sounds easier just pricing everything at $1. I do not follow you yet as I am still new to the TPT idea.

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